A 14‑Day Interrail Journey Through Europe
This two‑week Interrail journey begins and ends in London, sweeping through France, Switzerland, Italy and the Riviera before looping back home. It’s a route that blends scenic railways, lakeside towns, medieval cities and coastal glamour — all stitched together by some of Europe’s most beautiful train journeys
This two‑week Interrail journey begins and ends in London, sweeping through France, Switzerland, Italy and the Riviera before looping back home. It’s a route that blends scenic railways, lakeside towns, medieval cities and coastal glamour — all stitched together by some of Europe’s most beautiful train journeys
London to the Riviera: A 14‑Day Interrail Journey Through Europe
This two‑week Interrail journey begins and ends in London, sweeping through France, Switzerland, Italy and the Riviera before looping back home. It’s a route that blends scenic railways, lakeside towns, medieval cities and coastal glamour — all stitched together by some of Europe’s most beautiful train journeys. With a mix of one‑night stops and longer stays, it’s ideal for travellers who want variety without rushing.
Route Breakdown
A). London → Paris
B). Paris → Strasbourg
C). Strasbourg (visit)
D). Strasbourg → Zurich
E). Zurich → Chur
F). Chur → Alp Grüm
G). Alp Grüm → Tirano
H). Tirano → Bellano (Lake Como)
I). Lake Como (visit)
A). Bellano → Venice (visit)
B). Venice → Florence
C). Florence → Cinque Terre (Riomaggiore)
D). Cinque Terre → Riomaggiore
E). Riomaggiore →Monaco
F). Monaco → Avignon
G). Avignon → Paris → London
Stop‑by‑Stop Details
A–B. London – Paris
Depart London on the Eurostar and glide into Paris before connecting east to Strasbourg. The journey shifts quickly from city bustle to vineyard‑lined countryside. Even a short pause in Paris offers time for a quick café stop near the station.
C. Strasbourg
Strasbourg blends French and German influences with half‑timbered houses, canals and cobbled lanes. Petite France is perfect for slow wandering, and the cathedral’s astronomical clock is a highlight. A riverside terrace or a cosy Alsatian winstub makes a great dinner setting.
D–E. Strasbourg → Zurich → Chur
Cross into Switzerland for lake views and mountain silhouettes. Zurich offers polished lakeside promenades, while Chur — Switzerland’s oldest city — is a quiet, charming base before the big scenic rail day.
F–G. Chur → Alp Grüm → Tirano
This is the legendary Bernina Line: glaciers, spirals, viaducts and panoramic windows. Alp Grüm is a tiny mountain stop with sweeping views. The descent into Italy brings a sudden shift to warmer air, palm trees and Italian energy.
H–I. Tirano → Bellano (Lake Como) + Lake Como Day
Lake Como days are for ferries, viewpoints and slow living. Bellano is quieter than the big‑name towns, making it a peaceful base. A lakeside restaurant or a café overlooking the water is ideal for unwinding after the Bernina journey.
A-B. Bellano → Venice + Venice Day
Arriving in Venice by train is unforgettable — the station opens directly onto the Grand Canal. Explore quieter neighbourhoods, wander over bridges, or enjoy cicchetti in a tucked‑away bar. A sunset stroll along the Zattere is a lovely way to end the day.
C-D. Venice → Florence → Cinque Terre (Riomaggiore)
A quick hop through Florence before continuing to the Ligurian coast. Riomaggiore becomes home for three nights, giving time to explore the five villages at a relaxed pace. Think cliff‑top walks, swims in hidden coves, and simple trattorias with sea views.
E. Riomaggiore → Monaco
A dramatic coastal train ride leads to Monaco’s harbour, cliffs and glittering skyline. Explore the old town, the palace square, or the botanical gardens. A drink overlooking the marina is a classic Riviera moment.
F-G-H. Monaco → Avignon → Paris → London
The final stretch blends Riviera glamour with Provence charm. Avignon’s medieval walls and golden stone streets offer a warm, historic finale before the journey home via Paris and back to London.
Route Summary
- Total duration: 14 days
- Countries: France, Switzerland, Italy, Monaco
- Ideal pace: Balanced — mix of one‑night stays and longer pauses
- Key highlight: The Bernina Line (Chur → Tirano), one of Europe’s most scenic railways
Best Time to Travel
- May–June: Warm, long days, fewer crowds than peak summer
- September: Ideal temperatures, great for hiking in Cinque Terre
- Early October: Still pleasant, especially in Italy and the Riviera
Tips for a Smooth Interrail Trip
- Log journeys in the Rail Planner app before boarding.
- Arrive early for scenic trains to secure window seats.
- Pack light — many stations have steps and narrow platforms.
- Build buffer time for connections in big cities.
- Mix big‑city days with slower nature days to avoid travel fatigue.
Money‑Saving Ideas
Book Eurostar reservations early — they’re limited and cheaper when secured in advance.
Use regional trains where possible — often reservation‑free.
In Switzerland, choose scenic routes included in Interrail rather than premium panoramic trains.
Picnic lunches from local markets can be a highlight (Alsace bakeries, Italian delis, Swiss cheese stalls).
Stay just outside major hotspots (e.g. Bellano instead of Varenna, Mestre instead of Venice island).
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