4 interrail routes you’ll actually want to take!
Slow travel in Europe is changing the way we explore the continent. It’s not about bucket lists or doing as many things as fast as you can. It’s about connection. Presence. And enjoying the ride! Europe is perfect for this. Trains are everywhere. Cities are compact. And with a bit of planning (and an Interrail pass), you can see half the continent without ever stepping into an airport.😉
Whether you’re a student, a creative soul, or just tired of rushed city-hopping, here are 4 unforgettable routes to explore Europe slowly with local flavor, stunning views, and… some help from MEININGER Hotels along the way.
Welcome to the world of slow travel in Europe where the journey is the destination
Keep reading!
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🚄 Wait! What’s Interrail?
Interrail is a flexible train pass that lets European residents travel across 33 countries with just one ticket. Choose your pass for a few days or a full month, hop on trains when you want, and travel at your own rhythm.
🎓 Bonus for students: The Interrail student discount gives travelers under 27 up to 25% off.
With passes like the Austria Interrail, you can easily criss-cross countries like Italy, France, or Germany. And for overnight journeys, there’s the Interrail Nightjet, which lets you fall asleep in one country and wake up in another.
🚆 Plan your train adventure
Trip #1: Italy
For: food lovers
Italy was made for slow travel. Every city has its own flavor (literally and culturally!) and the train rides between them are part of the charm. Use your Interrail Pass to travel between major hubs like Rome, Venice, and Milan.
Looking for the best bites between sightseeing? Check out our guide to Eat near Rome’s most famous monuments for tasty tips just steps from the Colosseum. 🍝
🏨 Where to stay
- MEININGER Roma Termini: Close to the main station and perfect for exploring Rome’s ancient treasures and gelato shops.
- MEININGER Milano Lambrate: A creative, local feel with easy connections to the rest of the city and Lombardy region.
- MEININGER Milano Garibaldi: Just a few minutes from one of Milan’s coolest districts, great for fashion fans, foodies, and night owls.
- MEININGER Venezia Mestre: Your quiet, budget-friendly base near Venice, with quick train access to the canals.
Trip #2: Venice – Salzburg – Vienna – Budapest
For: families & scenic view fans
This is the dream loop: elegant cities, picturesque train routes, and a great mix of architecture, nature, and family-friendly activities.
🛤️ Train route highlights
Venice to Salzburg
A beautiful ride through the Alps that takes around 5-6 hours. Great if you love mountain views and crossing borders in style.
Salzburg to Vienna
One of the most scenic train rides in Austria; think rolling hills, charming villages, and green landscapes. Around 2.5 hours.
Vienna to Budapest
A smooth and direct trip between two capital cities. It takes a little over 2 hours, just enough time for your true crime podcast and a cup of coffee.
🏨 Where to stay
- MEININGER Venezia Mestre: Just a short walk from the train station, this is your ideal base for exploring Venice while staying connected to the rest of Italy.
- MEININGER Hotel Salzburg City Center: Well located for train travelers, with easy access to Salzburg’s main attractions and scenic Alpine routes.
- MEININGER Hotel Vienna Downtown Franz or Sissi: Both central and well connected, these hotels are perfect for arriving by rail and exploring Vienna’s imperial charm.
- MEININGER Budapest Great Market Hall: Right near the station and the Danube, this stylish stay makes it easy to explore Budapest and beyond by train.
Trip #3: France
For: art & taking-it-slow fans
France is all about taking your time: long lunches, lazy afternoons in museums, and sunset strolls along the Seine. Interrail lets you soak it in city by city. Use your Interrail Pass to explore France’s top cities and regions without rushing. Trains run frequently between Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux and Marseille.
🏨 Where to stay
- MEININGER Hotel Paris Porte de Vincennes: Tucked into a quiet neighborhood, but just a quick metro ride from the city’s biggest sights.
- MEININGER Hotel Lyon Centre Berthelot: Cozy and central in France’s gastronomy capital.
- MEININGER Hotel Marseille Centre La Joliette: Close to the Old Port and full of laid-back coastal charm.
- MEININGER Hotel Bordeaux Gare Saint-Jean: A stylish spot near the main station and steps from some of the best wine and food in France.
With Austria Interrail, you can also easily reach France from Austria or Italy. Use a Nightjet for the best overnight route experience.
Trip #4: Copenhagen – Amsterdam – Hamburg – Berlin
For: party people & bike riders
This route offers a great mix of calm and energy from Danish design to Berlin nightlife.
️🛤️ Train route highlights
Copenhagen to Hamburg
This one’s a relaxed ride through Denmark and northern Germany. It takes about 4.5 hours, and the trains are super comfy with big windows.
Hamburg to Berlin
Quick and breezy, just under 2 hours between these two lively German cities.
Berlin to Amsterdam
No transfers, just one long, chill ride through the countryside. It takes around 6 hours; ideal for journaling, watching movies, or a power nap.
🏨 Where to stay
- MEININGER Hotel Berlin Tiergarten: The perfect base for arriving in Berlin by train, with great U-Bahn connections and a fun, social vibe.
- MEININGER Hotel Hamburg City Center: Just steps from the train station, this comfy spot makes exploring Hamburg super easy.
- MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West: Right next to Sloterdijk station, ideal for hopping on trains across the Netherlands or heading to your next European city.
- Urban House Copenhagen by MEININGER: Located in the vibrant Vesterbro district and just minutes from Copenhagen Central Station—train travel made chill.
Want to explore Germany even more by rail? Don’t miss The Ultimate Travel Guide for Germany with the 58-euro Ticket for tips on making the most of your journey. 🚆
🧳Ready to slow down?
Slow travel isn’t about seeing less, it’s about experiencing more. More moments, more stories, more connection. With your Interrail Pass in hand, some good playlists, and a few comfy MEININGER hotels along the way, Europe’s rails are yours to explore!
Slow travel in Europe: FAQs
What is slow travel and why is it trending in Europe?
Slow travel is all about enjoying the journey, not just the destination. It’s a travel style focused on taking your time, connecting with local cultures, and avoiding rushed sightseeing. In Europe, it’s becoming popular thanks to great train networks, compact cities, and charming stops along the way. Whether you’re a student or a seasoned traveler, slow travel lets you explore more deeply and stress-free.
How does the Interrail Pass work?
The Interrail Pass is a flexible train ticket for European residents that lets you travel across 33 countries with ease. Choose how many travel days you want within a set period—like 4 days in a month or unlimited for 30 days—and simply hop on most trains without booking individual tickets. You can explore at your own rhythm and visit cities, villages, and landscapes all across Europe.
Who can get a discount on the Interrail Pass?
If you’re under 27 years old, you’re in luck! Students and young travelers can save up to 25% on their Interrail Pass. It’s a great budget-friendly option for discovering Europe by train, especially when combined with affordable MEININGER Hotels in key cities.
What’s the best Interrail route for food lovers in Italy?
Italy is perfect for slow travel, especially if you’re into local food and culture. With your Interrail Pass, you can travel between Rome, Venice, and Milan easily. Each city offers unique dishes, historic charm, and great train connections.
Which Interrail route is ideal for families and scenic views?
The Venice–Salzburg–Vienna–Budapest loop is made for scenic rides and family-friendly stops. You’ll pass through the Alps, rolling countryside, and elegant capital cities. It’s a comfortable and fun route for both kids and adults.
Can I travel around France slowly with an Interrail Pass?
Yes, France is fantastic for slow travel! With an Interrail Pass, you can hop between Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux, and Marseille at your own pace. The trains are frequent and scenic, letting you enjoy long lunches, local museums, and romantic evenings.
What’s the most relaxed Interrail route for creatives and cyclists?
Try the Copenhagen–Amsterdam–Hamburg–Berlin route. It offers a perfect mix of culture, calm, and fun—plus it’s very bike-friendly. You’ll glide through northern Europe’s vibrant cities with stylish design, lively neighborhoods, and amazing nightlife.
Are overnight train rides available with Interrail?
Yes! With the Interrail Nightjet, you can travel overnight and wake up in a new country. It’s a great way to save time and money on accommodations while still covering lots of ground. Routes between Italy, Austria, and France are especially popular.
How can MEININGER Hotels support my slow travel journey?
MEININGER Hotels are ideal for slow travelers. They’re located near main train stations and city centers, making it easy to explore on foot or by train. Plus, you get the comfort of a hotel with the flexibility of a hostel—think guest kitchens, game zones, and friendly vibes.
Why choose train travel over flying in Europe?
Train travel lets you experience Europe at eye-level. No long airport lines, no extra baggage fees—just beautiful views, local snacks, and the chance to meet fellow travelers. With cities so close together, the train is often faster than flying once you factor in check-in times. And it’s better for the planet, too.
