Need a break from London but don’t feel like dealing with airports? The Eurostar routes from London make weekend getaways super easy. Just jump on a train at St Pancras International and you can be exploring a new city in just a few hours without airport stress, long waits, passport control queues, or baggage fees.
Here are two of the best spots for a fun and easy weekend trip!
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🧇 Brussels: waffles, wandering & a cozy stay
The London Bruxelles Eurostar train gets you to Bruxelles-Midi (that’s Brussels Midi Station) in just over two hours. When it’s time to head back, look for signs to the Eurostar platform Brussels Midi which are super simple to find. Brussels has something for everyone. Beautiful buildings, cute neighborhoods, delicious fries and waffles on every corner.
Want somewhere comfy to stay? Check out the MEININGER Hotel Bruxelles City Center, right by the canal in a cool, old brewery. Or stay close to the station at the MEININGER Hotel Bruxelles Gare du Midi, so you can drop your bag and explore straight away.
🚲 Amsterdam: bikes, canals & big vibes
Hop on the London to Amsterdam Eurostar and you’ll arrive in about 4 hours. You’ll pull into Amsterdam Centraal, right in the heart of the city. Amsterdam is full of charm. Think picturesque canals, cozy cafés, world-famous museums, and way too many cute photo spots.
If you’re looking for a great place to stay, the MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West has modern rooms and easy train access. Or try the MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam Amstel for a calm, river-side spot with quick transport links to everything.
🚄 Why Eurostar Is a game-changer
Taking the Eurostar from London is honestly one of the best ways to travel. It’s quick, comfy, and way easier than flying. You leave and arrive right in the city centers, and there’s no worrying about luggage limits or tiny shampoo bottles. Plus, it’s better for the environment since trains create way less CO₂ than flights.
🧳 Travel tips
Book early: Eurostar prices are usually cheaper the sooner you book.
Bring your passport: Since Brexit, you need at least 6 months left on it to travel to the EU.
Get there early: Aim to be at St Pancras International about 90 minutes before your train.
Download the app: The Eurostar app is handy for tickets, updates and other travel info.
Sometimes a little trip is all you need to reset. With easy Eurostar routes from London, your next weekend adventure is just a train ride away!
Eurostar routes from London: FAQs
How can I plan an easy weekend getaway from London without flying?
If you’re looking for a quick weekend escape from London without the hassle of airports, the Eurostar is your best friend. Trains leave from St Pancras International and take you directly to city centers in Europe. No long airport lines, no baggage fees, and no waiting around for security checks. In just a few hours, you can be enjoying waffles in Brussels or cycling along Amsterdam’s canals.
How long does it take to reach Brussels from London by Eurostar?
Traveling from London to Brussels on the Eurostar is super fast—it takes just over 2 hours. You’ll arrive at Bruxelles-Midi (also known as Brussels Midi Station), and from there, the city is easy to explore. If you want a comfy place to stay, MEININGER Hotel Bruxelles City Center sits along the canal in a former brewery, while MEININGER Hotel Bruxelles Gare du Midi is right by the station for extra convenience.
What’s the best way to enjoy a weekend in Brussels?
Brussels is the perfect city for a weekend trip. You can spend your days wandering through beautiful old streets, admiring the stunning architecture, and tasting classic Belgian treats like waffles and fries. In the evenings, relax in one of the city’s cozy cafés or enjoy a stroll along the canal. Staying with MEININGER Hotels puts you close to everything, whether you choose the City Center location or the Gare du Midi hotel.
How long does it take to get to Amsterdam by Eurostar from London?
The Eurostar gets you from London to Amsterdam in around 4 hours. You’ll arrive at Amsterdam Centraal Station, which is right in the heart of the city. From there, it’s easy to reach all the canals, museums, and bike paths that make Amsterdam so famous. MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West and MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam Amstel are both great options for a comfortable and well-connected stay.
What can I do during a weekend in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam has endless things to see and do for a weekend trip. Spend your days cycling along the canals, visiting world-famous museums like the Van Gogh Museum or Rijksmuseum, and sipping coffee in cozy cafés. There are also plenty of picture-perfect spots to snap a few photos. MEININGER Hotels in Amsterdam offer a comfortable base to explore, whether you want a lively city experience or a calm riverside stay.
Why is taking the Eurostar better than flying for a short trip?
Eurostar travel is fast, comfortable, and stress-free compared to flying. You can leave from central London and arrive in the heart of another city without airport transfers, baggage fees, or security queues. Plus, trains are more eco-friendly than flights because they produce less CO₂, making your weekend getaway better for the planet.
Do I need a passport to travel on the Eurostar to Europe?
Yes, you’ll need your passport for all Eurostar trips to the European Union. Since Brexit, your passport should have at least 6 months of validity left. Make sure to carry it with you because you’ll need it for border checks at St Pancras International and when arriving in your destination city.
How early should I arrive at St Pancras International for my Eurostar train?
It’s best to arrive about 90 minutes before your Eurostar departure. This gives you enough time for ticket checks, security, and passport control without feeling rushed. Once you’re through, you can relax in the waiting area or grab a snack before boarding your train.
What’s the best way to save money on Eurostar tickets?
Booking early is the easiest way to get cheaper Eurostar tickets. Prices tend to rise the closer you get to the travel date. Another tip is to download the Eurostar app, which makes it easy to check schedules, get updates, and store your mobile tickets in one place.
Which MEININGER Hotels are perfect for a Eurostar weekend trip?
For a quick weekend getaway, MEININGER Hotels are perfectly located for Eurostar travelers. In Brussels, choose between the canal-side MEININGER Hotel Bruxelles City Center or the super-convenient MEININGER Hotel Bruxelles Gare du Midi near the station. In Amsterdam, MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West offers easy train access, while MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam Amstel gives you a calm riverside stay with fast links to the city center.
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