You don't need to go through Frankfurt airport to get out of Germany for a long weekend.
Try the Hauptbanhof first!
There are so many places you can reach from Frankfurt without generating a sky-high carbon footprint. Pretty much the whole of the BENELUX, Switzerland, and Western and Central Austria is within your reach by train in under 6 hours, and you can even dip your toes into France and the northernmost parts of Italy for a long week end!
Swap the time you would spend travelling to the airport, flying out, landing, and exiting the airport at your destination, for a simple train trip. You'll be spending that time admiring the French countryside, the Swiss lakes, the Austrian Alps, or some stunning Belgian and Dutch gems from the comfort of your seat!
20 European weekend train trips starting in Frankfurt
Ready to plan a train getaway somewhere in Europe? Research your options. The Trainline and Deutsche Bahn are great places to start, and make sure to browse the websites of the national rail operators of Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands  and France as well, if you need more flexibility in designing your break, or want to benefit from some special offers.
To get you started, here are 20 destinations you can easily reach from Frankfurt by train, even for a long weekend:
1. Paris
Notre Dame © Martin Gilbert/Unsplash
Getting to Paris from Frankfurt by train is easy. The journey is direct, and you can get into Paris Gare de l'Est in 3 hours and 40 minutes.
It is the perfect short break. There is no time difference so you can maximise your time. Explore a world-famous museum, stroll along the Seine from the Eiffel Tower to the Latin Quarter (one of my favourite activities in Paris), hop into stunning churches and elegant palaces.
If you are not visiting large museums, even an overnight stay can get you a pretty good feel for the centre. It is very easy to explore Paris on foot, using the Seine as your beacon. You can still fit in one or two famous attractions, or explore smaller museums not so crowded but equally fascinating. And of course, if you have time to stay longer, you can explore in depth. To maximise your time in Paris, you can book tickets to the top attractions online at Paris Je t'aime.
2. Brussels
Arcade du Cinquantenaire, Brussels © Wix
Three hours on a train is all it takes to get from the heart of Frankfurt to the heart of Brussels,
Once you are there, think a stroll in the stunning eclectic mix of gothic and Renaissance/Baroque styles of the UNESCO-listed Grand Place, a climb up the twentieth century Atomium, a visit to one of the city's museums, an immersion into its comic book culture, while enjoying delicious beer stew or waffles, and of course some chocolate, and understand the reasons why Brussels is considered one of the gourmet capitals of Europe.
3. Amsterdam - and anywhere in the Netherlands
Amsterdam Canal © Wix
Amsterdam's cultural and night scenes are one of the best in Europe. I love going in winter when it is quieter. The canals become very peaceful, and you can wander around the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum without the crowds.
The journey from Frankfurt is a mere 4 hours.
4. Lyon
"The Weight of Oneself" Sculpture on the banks of Saone River © Alps2Coast
You can travel from Frankfurt to Lyon with a change of train station. Once in Paris, you can head straight from Gare du Nord to Gare de Lyon (a quick metro journey) or break the trip with a lunch or stroll in the beautiful French capital. The trip from Frankfurt to Paris is 3 hours and 40 minutes, and the journey from Paris to Lyon is just under 2 hours.
Lyon is a stunning city which deserves to be better known. Check out my post on a long weekend in Lyon for ideas on what to do.
5. Reims, Troyes and Champagne region
Reims Cathedral © Pascal Bernardon/Unsplash
You'll be surprised by how easy it is to get to the Champagne region from Frankfurt. The trains from Frankfurt arrive at Paris Gare de l'Est and the trains for Reims (pictured above) and Troyes leave from the same station! The whole journey from Frankfurt Hauptbanhof to Reims takes under 5 hours. Troyes takes slightly longer - about 6 hours.
Both cities are gateways to the Champagne wine region and boast stunning historical centres and architecture.
6. Zürich
The Altstadt © Wix
Deutsche Bahn takes you from Frankfurt to Zürich in just over 4 hours, with a swift change in Basel. It won't take you long to realise that Zürich is far more than a financial centre and the largest Swiss city. there.
Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town (Altstadt), take a stroll along the peaceful shores of Lake Zürich, visit the Kunsthaus, one of Switzerland's most important contemporary art collections, or the FIFA Football Museum. If the weather's nice you can go hiking on the Uetliberg, Zurich's mountain, and reconnect with nature. It is a city for all seasons too. There is a lovely Christmas market, foliage in autumn, and glittering waters all around you.
If you are looking for culture, relaxation, and a proper break from the hustle and bustle of Frankfurt, Zürich has it all
7. Versailles
Versailles, detail of the formal garden from a balcony © Elena Rabkina/Unsplash
This is a trip I did with a toddler. It is super easy and a weekend gives you the time to truly appreciate Versailles without rushing through the sights. You get off your Frankfurt-Paris high-speed train at at Gare de l'Est, walk 30 minutes to stretch your legs or get on the metro line 7 for 4 stops, until Gare Saint Lazare, from where you can catch a local suburban train (RER), which will deliver you to the court of the Sun King in just under one hour. So you are looking at a total travel time of around 5 hours including the change of station.
Versailles is a magnificent city. The centre was designed by the same architect that designed the royal palace, and is filled with quirky antique shops, lovely restaurants, and if you go at weekends you can sample the treats of a mouth-watering farmers' market.
The formal gardens are free at sunset in the summer months, so you can go and watch the sun go down and drop into the magnificent fountain at the bottom of the formal gardens. Staying for the week end also means you can visit the palace one day and the gardens and the Trianon the next, without rushing. And there are other beautiful buildings and museums in the city centre which I did not have time to visit.
It is also worth mentioning that beyond the formal gardens, there is a vast park where you can sit down for a picnic by the lake or go for a hike in the woods to round off your sightseeing!
8. Strasbourg & the heart of Alsace
Strasbourg © Harvid Heidahl/Unsplash
You can get from Frankfurt to the medieval wonders of Strasburg in under 2 hours - or 2 and a half if you change in Karlsruhe. From Strasbourg, SNCF trains take you to Colmar, the most famous of the Alsatian postcard-perfect villages, in under 30 minutes.
Both Strasbourg and Colmar host renowned Christmas markets.
Colmar © Aswathy N/Unsplash
Colmar is surrounded by other equally interesting villages such as Eguisheim. (16 minutes by bus).
If you love medieval history, you will be in heaven. Strasbourg is home to one of the most celebrated gothic cathedrals, A 37-minute train ride (or 11-minute from Colmar) takes you to Sélestat. From there, in 30 minutes, buses take you to the 900-year-old Haut-Koenigsbourg castle, perched on top of a mountain overlooking the Rhine valley.
Haut Koenigsbourg in winter © Ronan Potier/Unsplash
9. Salzburg
The city of Salzburg © Wix
There are various direct trains between Frankfurt and the stunning Austrian city of Salzburg - and many more services if you allow for a swift change in Munich. The direct train takes 5 hours and 40 minutes.
Salzburg's city centre is compact, yet there is so much to see. The city's baroque churches and palaces, the mighty Hohensalzburg Fortress, built in 1077, and never taken by foreign troops, the houses in the Getreidegasse, decorated with important dates in their history, the names of former owners, including, at no, 9, the birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg's immortal wunderkind...
10. Chartres
Chartres Cathedral's famous stained glass windows © Arnaud Papa/Unsplash
The stunning Romanesque cathedral of Chartres, famed for its glass windows is surrounded by a stunning ancient village.
You can reach it from Frankfurt in under 6 hours, changing station in Paris, from Gare de l'Est to Montparnasse. The change gives you an excuse for a stroll or lunch in the Latin Quarter before boarding a train that takes you through lovely French countryside to the hillside city of Chartres.
11. Dijon & Burgundy
Dijon © Fred Clery/Unsplash
Fancy a gourmet weekend in Burgundy? Catch a train from Frankfurt to Dijon via Strasbourg? You'll be sampling Pinot Noir in just over 4 hours! There is an alternative route through Basel, which is slightly longer but still reasonable in 5 hours.
Burgundy is one of France's most fascinating historical regions, a former duchy and before that an independent kingdom! And Dijon is its worthy capital. The distinctive polychrome roofs, toits bourguignons, add character to the architecture of a city brimming with building ranging from medieval Gothic to Art Deco.
Visit the Palais des Ducs, home of one of France's great museums, the Musée de Beaux Arts. Admire the stunningly elegant Notre Dame de Dijon with its slender gothic columns, or step inside to admire Notre-Dame de Bon-Espoir (Our Lady of Good Hope), one of the most ancient French statues of the Virgin Mary. Visit the cathedral of Saint Bénigne, walk through the ancient streets to soak in the atmosphere, or if you are feeling more epicurean visit the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin.
Surrounded by vineyards, Dijon is the starting point of the "route des Grands Crus", where eight of the world's top ten most expensive wines are produced.
An example of toit bourguignon © Gerard Avril/Unsplash
Alternatively, stay on the train another 20-25 minutes and head for the stunning city of Beaune, the epitome of Burgundian charm. The 'route des grand crus' actually ends there. Wander through the half-timbered houses of the Old Town, admire the Hospices de Beaune (Hôtel-Dieu), and hike or cycle the Chemin des Grand Crus to visit wine cellars the active way.
If you have 3-4 days, make the most of SNCF and combine Dijon and Beaune!
12. Geneva
Le jet d'eau © Devam Jhabak/Unsplash
After Burgundy, here is another destination along the Rhone River, which doubles as a lake escape - the Swiss city of Geneva.
Wander around the Old City, the birthplace of the Reformation, and Saint Pierre - the area around the Cathedral. Explore Lac Leman in all its glittering beauty, and if it is summer treat yourself to a few hours, or a day, of swimming and sunbathing at Bains des Pâquis, Make your way to the Jet d'Eau, the tallest water fountain in the world, and stroll through the buzzing lakeshore promenades. If you love history and politics, a guided tour of the European headquarters of the United Nations is a must.
You can travel from Frankfurt to Geneva with Deutsche Bahn via Basel and Olten (two changes) or via Bern (1 change). Travel time will be under 6 hours.
Once in Geneva, if you have more than a couple of days, do consider a train trip to Montreux via Lausanne. You will be riding along the lake most of the way, and the views are magnificent.
13. Bern - and the Bernese Oberland
Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a pearl where culture merges with nature at every step. Its size makes it an ideal short break destination, and it is only 4 hours from Frankfurt, travelling through pristine Swiss countryside, peaks, and lakes. You can opt for a direct journey or change in Basel.
The Aar river and the rooftops of Bern © Carol Jen/Unsplash
And when you get there, you will discover a capital city you would not expect, lively and yet relaxed, cultured and adventurous. From admiring the views from the Rosengarten, to strolling through the medieval arcades, to swimming in the green waters of the Aare River like the locals love to do, from visiting Einstein's house to bear spotting in the Bärengraben, your weekend will be full and refreshing at the same time.
Bern prides itself on being one of the sustainability capitals of Europe too, and thanks to the Bern ticket, tourists travel free on public transport!
14. Lugano & Bellinzona
Lugano and its lake © Antonio Sessa/Unsplash
The Lugano region, the southernmost tip of Switzerland, is at the same latitude as Lake Como, and boasts Italian levels of sunshine and views to die for. There are a few non-stop trains and plenty of options with a swift change in Basel. The train journey is longish at just under 7 hours, but you will not feel it. It is simply magnificent.
You catch glimpses of the Rhine, the city of Karlsruhe, the elegant spa towns of Baden Baden and Bad Krozingen, Basel, the dark blue waters of Lake Lucerne, and the southern Swiss Alps.
Lugano's lake © Nashrin Babashova/Unsplash
Like all glacial lakes Lugano has a very irregular shape that makes for incredible views. You can swim, book a boat tour, climb Monte Tamaro, or hop on train to nearby Bellinzona.
By the way, you can even choose Bellinzona as your base to visit Lugano from there. Regular fast trains connect the two cities in under 20 minutes.
Bellinzona is a fortified medieval town with three castles, included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. Throughout history it held strategic importance as a gateway between Italy and transalpine Europe, and despite being smaller than Lugano it is Ticino's capital.
Bellinzona © Patrizia Berta/Unsplash
Three days is enough to get a feel for both cities, although the charm of the lake may tempt you to stay longer!
15. Luxembourg City
Luxembourg city © Jean Carlo Emer/Unsplash
Luxembourg City does not seem to rank high on most people's bucket lists,. Its reputation as a financial hub almost shields the unique charm of the city. I first saw it on a business trip, with no expectations, and was so positively surprised that I had to go back as a tourist.
What struck me was that Luxembourg City is built on several levels. The upper part, known as the "Ville Haute" is situated on cliffs, and from the cliffs, you have stunning panoramic views of the lower part of the city "Ville Basse", situated in two valleys at the bottom of the cliffs.
The two parts of the city are connected by several bridges and viaducts, including the iconic Adolphe Bridge and the Grand Duchess Charlotte Bridge.
The contrast between the historic and medieval architecture in the Upper Town and the modern town at the bottom of the cliffs makes the city as unique as it is picturesque.
This charming and vibrant capital lies under 4 hours from Frankfurt. You can get a train to Saarbrücken Hauptbanhof (2 hours), and catch a long distance bus for the 1 hours and 15 minutes journey to Luxembourg.
If you have not been before, include at stopover in the stunning city of Trier, with its glorious medieval and Roman history - during the last centuries of the Roman empire it was one of its four capitals.
The Roman theatre of Trier © Alexander Schimmeck/Unsplash
16. The Hague
A night view of The Hague © Wix
Through a combination of Deutsche Bahn and NS, the Dutch national railway, you can get to Den Haag (The Hague) via Frankfurt in 5 hours and 15 minutes. Surprisingly, there is a faster route with 3 changes, via Düsseldorf/Venlo/Eindhoven. I have tried it and it works quite well, especially if you have hand luggage only for a long weekend!
The seat of the Dutch royal family and the Dutch parliament (the medieval Binnenhof), Den Haag is a city that deserves to be seen in the old-world way, and a train is a perfect introduction to its magic. Den Haag boasts world class museums, buzzy eateries, trendy boutiques, and last but not least there are lovely Atlantic beaches only 15minutes away, so you can feed the body and the soul, combining a stroll on the beach or a swim with culture, food and great shopping.
I spent a weekend in The Hague last summer. Check out my post for ideas of what do to and see.
17. Gent and Bruges
Bruges city centre © Despina Galani/Unsplash
The direct journey from Frankfurt to Brussels Midi takes just over four hours. In Brussels Midi you will find regular direct trains to Gent (Ghent) which take 28 minutes, and Bruges (Brugge) which take 58 minutes.
As Gent and Bruges are on the same train line and only 30 minutes away from each other, you can base yourself in either and still visit the other one. I stayed in Bruges and it was magnificent. Its dreamlike waterways and gothic churches feel like they are made of intricate Flemish lace.
Next time I hope to stay in Gent, as I felt like I did not give it the time it deserves. Although I was tempted to visit by one of my favourite films, The Monument Men, I soon discovered there is so much to do and see beyond the Gent Altar piece referenced in the film. Gent's determination to become carbon-neutral is also inspirational.
18. Kufstein
The fortress of Kufstein © Waldemar/Unsplash
Dominated by its mighty medieval fortress, the Tyrolean mountain resort of Kufstein offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture, making it an excellent destination for a relaxing and enriching getaway in Austria. From Frankfurt, you can reach in under 5 hours, with a change in Munich.
A visit to the fortress (Festung Kufstein), with its chambers, towers, courtyards and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, and a stroll along the river Inn or through the charming streets of Kufstein's Old Town, filled with colourful houses, medieval architecture, and charming cafés, combined with hikes and hearty Tyrolean fare make for a perfect long weekend.
If you are happy to stay on the train a bit longer, continue onward to Brenner or even Bolzano, for one of Europe's most incredible train rides, through the Tyrolean Alps and the Dolomites. The views from the window are so beautiful that the journey itself will feel like the highlight of your holiday! Read more about the Munich-Dolomites train ride here.
19. Schaffhausen
Sunset over Schaffhausen © Alps2Coast
Schaffhausen is the nearest city to the stunning Rhine Waterfalls at the aptly named Rheinfall, one of the natural wonders of Switzerland, and I would argue of the world. Yet it is a pearl in its own right, an enchanting unique blend of natural beauty, historical heritage, and cultural richness.
Rhine and vineyards - the view from Munot Fortress © Alps2Coast
The Munot fortress, perched on a hill covered in vineyeards, dominates the medieval Altstadt, with its cobblestone streets and elegant squares surrounded by painted houses, And then, there is the Rhine. Rheinfall is actually out of town but you can easily reach it on foot, walking along the river, savouring its unique beauty in anticipation of the natural wonder that awaits you - waterfalls with a small island in the middle, topped by yet another medieval castle.
Rheinfall © Jian Liu/Unsplash
Between a cruise around the waterfalls and visits to the delightful town, sampling some local wines and cheeses, this is a break I have done more than once and I truly treasure.
And it is just over 4 hours from Frankfurt, with a change in Basel, or slightly longer with a change in Zurich.
Switzerland is famous for its panoramic rail tracks through its pristine landscapes, but it is hard to beat a train ride to Schaffhausen. The tracks overlook the waterfalls and the castle!
20. London
Big Ben at sunset © Alps2Coast
You do not need to fly to see the Big Ben. A train trip from Frankfurt to London is a wonderful and easy long weekend break. There are a few options a day to get from the centre of Frankfurt to the centre of London in under 6 hours, via a quick change in Brussels Midi. The journey from Frankfurt to Brussels is about 3 hours, and between Brussels and London just over 2.
Thanks to its extensive metro system you can see a lot of London even in a couple of days. Allow more if you want to visit attractions further afield or the great museums and galleries such as the British Museum, the V&A, the National Gallery - all free, although donations are welcome - and the historical monuments such as the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey.
Check out VisitLondon to plan your visit.
From the heart of Germany to the heart of Europe
The suggestions above are just the beginning. Frankfurt's geographical position, in the centre of Europe, means you have plenty of possibilities. J
ust define what kind of destinations you love, what inspires you, make a list, and before browsing flights, check if there is a train that can take you there!
Over the next couple of years, new train lines will be added and many more destinations that seem a bit distant today will become possible thanks to fast trains and/or better connections.
For more inspiration on how to travel by train from anywhere in Europe by train, sign up to my blog.
Also, if you are planning to discover more of Switzerland, rather than travel abroad from Geneva, check out my post on Switzerland's most scenic train rides.
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