15-Day European Train Journey: Best Summer Destinations from Amsterdam to Nice

As the summer sun rises high in the sky, many of us dream of traveling to new and exciting destinations. Europe has always been a popular choice for travel enthusiasts and there's no better way to explore this beautiful continent than by train.
Let us take you on a journey through some of the most vibrant and culturally rich cities in Europe. This itinerary has been carefully curated to help you make the most of your trip, and experience the unique flavors and sights that each destination has to offer. So pack your bags, grab your passport, and let's go on an adventure!
Table of Contents
Day 1-3: Biking Along the Canals: Exploring Amsterdam's Charm on Two Wheels
Day 4-6: The Artistic Beat of Berlin: Discovering the City's Vibrant Art and Music Scene
Day 7-9: Palaces and Pastries: Indulging in Vienna's Rich Culture and Sweet Treats
Day 10-12: Gaudi's Masterpieces and Tapas Delights: A Journey Through Barcelona's Best
Day 13-14: Riviera Dreaming: Unwinding in Nice's Sunny Beaches and Charming Old Town
Day 1-3: Biking Along the Canals: Exploring Amsterdam's Charm on Two Wheels

Our journey begins in Amsterdam, a city known for its picturesque canals, vibrant nightlife, and cultural treasures. Take a boat tour along the canals to see the city from a different perspective, or visit the Van Gogh Museum to admire the works of this famous Dutch artist. For a unique experience, head to the Rijksmuseum and explore the galleries by candlelight. Don't forget to try some Dutch specialties like stroopwafels, bitterballen, and raw herring.
Sightseeing Recommendations: Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Vondelpark, Royal Palace Amsterdam.
Eating Recommendations: Foodhallen, De Pizzabakkers, De Foodhallen, The Seafood Bar, Café de Jaren.
Unique Tip: Rent a bike and explore Amsterdam like a local. The city has a vast network of cycle lanes and is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world.
Day 4-6: The Artistic Beat of Berlin: Discovering the City's Vibrant Art and Music Scene

From Amsterdam, take a train to Berlin, the capital of Germany and a city with a rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Visit the iconic Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall, which served as a symbol of division during the Cold War. For a unique experience, head to the Museum Island and explore the city's world-class museums and galleries. Don't forget to try some of Berlin's famous street food, like currywurst, kebab, or schnitzel.
Sightseeing Recommendations: Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall, Museum Island, Checkpoint Charlie, Berlin Cathedral.
Eating Recommendations: Curry 36, Mustafa's Gemüsekebab, Schnitzelei, Café Einstein Unter den Linden, Spätzle Club.
Unique Tip: Visit the East Side Gallery, a 1.3 km long section of the Berlin Wall that has been turned into an open-air gallery with murals and street art.
Day 7-9: Palaces and Pastries: Indulging in Vienna's Rich Culture and Sweet Treats

Next, we head to Vienna, the imperial capital of Austria and a city known for its stunning architecture, coffeehouses, and classical music. Visit the Schönbrunn Palace and the Hofburg Imperial Palace, which offer a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture. For a unique experience, head to one of Vienna's traditional coffeehouses and try a slice of Sachertorte, a famous Viennese chocolate cake. Don't forget to try some of the local specialties, like Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, and Apfelstrudel.
Sightseeing Recommendations: Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Imperial Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, Belvedere Palace, Prater amusement park.
Eating Recommendations: Figlmüller, Plachutta, Café Central, Naschmarkt, Zum Schwarzen Kameel.
Unique Tip: Take a ride on the Riesenrad, Vienna's iconic Ferris wheel that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Day 10-12: Gaudi's Masterpieces and Tapas Delights: A Journey Through Barcelona's Best

Our final destination is Barcelona, a city known for its stunning architecture, delicious food, and lively atmosphere. Visit the famous Sagrada Familia cathedral, designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudi, or take a stroll through the vibrant Gothic Quarter. For a unique experience, head to the Boqueria Market and try some of the local specialties, like jamon iberico, paella, or churros. Don't miss out on a sunset stroll along the beach or a night out in the city's bustling nightlife scene.
Sightseeing Recommendations: Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Gothic Quarter, Casa Batllo, La Rambla.
Eating Recommendations: La Boqueria, El Nacional, Can Paixano, Bar Cañete, Cerveceria Catalana.
Unique Tip: Take a cable car ride to the top of Montserrat, a stunning mountain range outside of Barcelona that offers breathtaking views and a chance to visit a 1,000-year-old Benedictine monastery.
Day 13-14: Riviera Dreaming: Unwinding in Nice's Sunny Beaches and Charming Old Town

On the way back, take a train to Nice, a picturesque city on the French Riviera. Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais and admire the beautiful Mediterranean Sea, or visit the charming old town with its narrow streets and colorful buildings. For a unique experience, head to the Matisse Museum and explore the works of this famous French artist. Don't forget to try some of the local specialties, like socca, pissaladiere, and ratatouille.
Sightseeing Recommendations: Promenade des Anglais, Castle Hill, Matisse Museum, Old Town, Colline du Chateau.
Eating Recommendations: Lou Pilha Leva, Patisserie Lac, Oliviera, La Merenda, Le Pain Quotidien.
Unique Tip: Visit the nearby town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a charming medieval village known for its art galleries and scenic views.
As you wrap up your train journey through Europe's top summer destinations, it's time to head back home. We hope this itinerary has inspired you to explore new places and experience unforgettable moments. We'd love to hear about your travel experiences, so don't hesitate to share them with us. Safe travels and happy exploring!