Europe’s newest long-distance rail route, launched by European Sleeper on 5 February, will connect Brussels and Venice, with stops at nine cities in total. This route cuts through the Netherlands, Germany, European ski centres in the Alps, and finally into Italy. Along the journey, travelers have the opportunity to explore diverse destinations such as Brussels, Rotterdam, Cologne, and Innsbruck. These cities offer unique experiences and attractions that go beyond the typical tourist sights.
Brussels, the de facto capital of the European Union, is Belgium’s most cosmopolitan city. With more than 60 per cent of its population being foreign-born, Brussels reflects exceptional diversity in its rich food and drink scene. Visitors can enjoy a gourmet stroll in Matongé, Brussels’ African quarter, or sample Vietnamese pho, Syrian-Armenian flatbreads, and Hawaiian poke at various dining establishments. The city also boasts historic pubs serving sour lambic beers and Belgian ales, providing a true taste of Belgian culture and hospitality.
Rotterdam, the Netherlands’ second city, offers a blend of maritime history and modernist architecture. Despite being heavily damaged during WW2, Rotterdam has preserved some of its old city, including the historic marina along the Nieuwe Maas river. The city is a haven for antique shops, cafes, breweries, and gin bars, all built around historic canal houses. Rotterdam’s progressive spirit is evident in its modern architecture, such as the mirror-covered Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen and the horseshoe-shaped Markthal indoor market, which showcase the city’s innovative and sustainable approach to urban design.
Cologne, situated along the Rhine River, boasts 2,000 years of history and is famous for its annual Carnival celebrations. The city’s gothic cathedral and cobblestoned center are iconic sights to behold, but during Carnival, Cologne comes alive with colorful costumes, festive parades, and lively celebrations. The ‘five crazy days’ before Ash Wednesday see the whole city donning costumes and drinking kölsch beer as they participate in the vibrant street festivities. With more than one million visitors flocking to Cologne for Carnival, it has become one of Europe’s largest and most popular street festivals.
Innsbruck, located in the heart of the Alps, offers a range of outdoor activities and cultural attractions. The Bergisel ski jump, a prominent landmark, showcases Innsbruck’s reputation as a top skiing destination. In addition to world-class skiing opportunities, visitors can explore well-connected hiking trails in the surrounding mountains during the summer months. Innsbruck also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with attractions such as the imperial palace, Swarovski Crystal Worlds, and the historic old town, home to the iconic ‘golden roof’ built for Emperor Maximilian I. Whether seeking outdoor adventure or cultural exploration, Innsbruck offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers to enjoy.
Overall, the European Sleeper train route offers travelers the opportunity to explore a different side of Europe beyond the typical tourist destinations. From the cosmopolitan charm of Brussels to the modernist architecture of Rotterdam, the festive spirit of Cologne’s Carnival, and the outdoor adventures of Innsbruck, this journey promises a rich and diverse travel experience. Whether interested in food and drink, history and culture, or outdoor activities, each destination along the route provides unique attractions and experiences that showcase the vibrant diversity of Europe.
