Whether you’re heading to Spain, Germany or Amsterdam, there are new routes and specials to explore

Europe is in the midst of a great rail revival. An increased awareness of environmental issues, the many hassles of air travel and the mental effort required to drive long distances are all reasons for people to get back onto trains. European passenger numbers are on the rise again, if not quite at pre-pandemic levels.

In response, operators across the continent are investing in new services, tracks and special offers. And it’s only going to get better: Dozens of projects are in motion from the Baltic states to Portugal, with the European Union aiming to double high-speed rail traffic by 2030 and supporting “10 pilot projects to establish new rail services or improve existing ones” right now.

My family’s summer will involve a train journey from Paris to Barcelona, down the Rhône valley and along the Mediterranean coast, but you don’t have to travel at 200 miles an hour to get the best out of Europe’s rail network.

From slow trains to high-speed bargains, there are plenty of options if you’re traveling in Europe in the next few months.

New sleepers from Belgium and Sweden

The sleeper train revival is picking up speed. They seemed to be on the way out in 2016, when the government of France, their last stronghold, decided to cut funding for a number of services. Happily, many of those have since been restored, and other countries around Europe — most notably Austria, under the brand name Nightjet — are investing heavily in night trains.

This summer sees the debut of a service between Brussels and Berlin, two key political centers, run by a new company called European Sleeper. Customers can leave Brussels at 7:22 p.m. (or Amsterdam at 10:34 p.m.) on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and arrive in Berlin at 6:48 a.m. Return trips depart on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. There are three types of tickets, starting at $85: a seat, a bed in a six-berth compartment or a bed in a three-bed compartment.

Other night trains have also recently been introduced, such as Stockholm to Hamburg, which started in the fall, or Paris to Vienna, which began in 2021.

I’ve traveled on night trains from Paris to the south of France on a number of occasions. The experience is not luxurious, but it’s generally cheaper than the cost of a flight and a room — and the beds, while slim, are surprisingly comfortable. Be warned, though: The romance of trundling across Europe in the dead of night can make it hard to sleep.

German rail pass for $50 a month

Last summer Germany’s national rail company, Deutsche Bahn, offered monthly passes for the country’s huge network for under $10, a response to cost-of-living problems caused by a sharp rise in costs for electricity, food, heating and mobility. The success of that project has led to the introduction of the Deutschland-Ticket, which will cost around $50 a month and allow unlimited travel on all trains, buses and city subway services, with the exception of the most direct and speedy intercity services.

The possibilities are enticing. Beer lovers, for example, could travel from Düsseldorf to Cologne to Bamberg and onward to Munich, hopping off for distinctive local brews along the way. Those in search of scenery, meanwhile, might prefer the West Rhine Railway, stretching down the Rhine from Cologne in the north to Mainz.

One thing to remember: The Deutschland-Ticket is only available as a rolling, app-based subscription. British train expert Mark Smith, better known online as the Man in Seat 61, recommends canceling by the 10th of the month to avoid being charged for more than a month.

The first 100-mph locomotive, in the U.K.

Given locomotives are a British invention, the rail network in the United Kingdom can be a disappointment. Yes, it’ll get you where you need to go, eventually, but services are often late, and there’s only one high-speed line, used by Eurostar and domestic services, from London into the Kentish countryside. The current national debate over ongoing construction of HS2 (High Speed 2) offers a reason: NIMBY-ish attitudes tend to triumph over the greater good.

No wonder Britons are wont to retreat into the past for comfort. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the world’s first fully authenticated 100-mph passenger locomotive, the Flying Scotsman; as a result, a number of special excursions are planned. For those who can afford it, the Centenary Weekender looks like the most appealing trip, from London to York and then Edinburgh, followed by a jaunt up Scotland’s beautiful East Coast.

The Flying Scotsman may be unique, but Europe is full of historical interest. There’s another anniversary, too: The Wuppertal Schwebebahn, a remarkable suspension railway that continues to operate, was completed in 1903. And then there’s the Beaux-Arts Canfranc Station, opened as the crossing point from Spain to France in 1928, which was revived as a hotel this year.

A $7 high-speed train in Spain

Budget services are increasingly common in Europe, but no one is moving so fast as Spain’s Avlo, which runs high-speed, low-cost trains between Madrid and Barcelona, with tickets starting around $7. The network is expanding: From the start of June, there’s a new route from the Spanish capital to Andalusia, taking in Cordoba, Seville and Malaga.

In France, there’s Ouigo, which provides high-speed and standard services from Paris to cities all around the country, including Bordeaux, Marseille and Strasbourg. The advantage of the standard service — which offers tickets starting around $11 — is that prices don’t change, so you can get a last-minute bargain. The U.K., too, has a low-cost service, from London to Edinburgh via Newcastle, although tickets are not always such good value.

New subway lines in Turkey and England

Few cities have seen such huge investment and rapid improvement in subway provision as Istanbul. Earlier this year, a line connecting Istanbul Airport to the city opened, while other new lines and extensions are entering service all the time. It’s a remarkable turnaround for a city that had virtually no underground transport until 1989.

It’s not the only hub to be investing in underground trains, though. The experience of visiting Copenhagen has been transformed by the 2019 opening of the City Circle Line. Since last summer, visitors arriving at London Heathrow can reach the city center, and much besides, far quicker courtesy of 2022’s Elizabeth Line.

Paris, meanwhile, is in the foothills of a significant expansion program, Grand Paris Express, which will provide new connections in the city’s long-neglected suburbs. You can expect to see those services start to come online next year, when Paris hosts the Olympics and when Metro Line 14 will be extended to Orly, Paris’s second-largest airport.

London travel tips: Wondering how to get around the capital of England? Read on to know about some of the best modes of transportation in London.

Visiting London can be one of the most fantastic ideas for a tourist. The capital city of England has got ample things to offer and enough activities that will keep you busy throughout for however long you chose to stay in the beautiful city.

5 ways to travel around London

Rental Cars

To experience the charm of other cities, rental cars can be convenient and worth the investment. You can book these cars through AutoEurope, Kayak, Sixt and more. There are various car options one can choose from, including the price ranges.

Other modes of transport in London

DLR (Dockland Light Railway)

It is an automated railway network that specifically covers the dockland areas which is the east and south-east region of London. The key difference between the train system and DLR is that the latter does not have drivers. It links the London City Airport to the rest of the tube networks. In terms of fare, they are pretty much the same as Overground and Underground train system.

Tram

This is one of the best modes of transport in London and specifically from Wimbledon, through to Beckenham. The tram services, also known as London tram link, have four major lines and 17 miles of track. This huge network is used by many but it is well used in the southern region of London.

River Boat

The capital city has a very big river flowing through it, so waterways is yet another widely used mode of transport in London. There are a total of four routes that start from all the way from Putney and they go as far as Woolwich located in the eastern region.

Bicycles

London has rolled out, or rather brought back a new mode of transportation — and that is the bicycle. There are various public cycle points in the city and these are gaining immense popularity for short trips. The advantage is that one can access bicycle points all across the city.

Easter is here. And it’s not just the Easter Bunny hopping around. Millions of holidaymakers will be taking to the skies, with Qantas and Jetstar gearing up for almost four million customers to travel across its domestic and international network on almost 36,000 flights throughout Easter and the proceeding four-week school holidays period. Not only that but more than 670,000 customers are expected to be travelling over the Easter long weekend alone, an 8 per cent increase on the 2023 Easter holidays. This all in mind, here are seven expert-approved tips to make your flying experience less stressful.

Arrive two hours before your flight

Conventional wisdom might be to arrive one hour before a domestic flight, but a Sydney Airport spokesperson has told Escape they are advising passengers to arrive two hours before their domestic flight if they are checking in luggage (if you only have hand luggage, you are advised to arrive one hour before your flight). As for international flights, the recommendation is to arrive three hours before your flight, unless your airline tells you otherwise.

Don’t travel on the Thursday

Sydney Airport is forecasting Thursday to be the busiest day through the period, with 130,000 passengers forecast. The total domestic number of passengers forecasted from Thursday 28 to Sunday March 31 alone is set to hit 266,000, while the international forecast of passengers for those same dates is 183,000.

Book your car space in advance

Want to guarantee a spot? Do this.

Don’t go to Bali

Or Auckland, Singapore, Tokyo, Gold Coast, Hobart or Cairns. According to Qantas, these are the most popular destinations Aussies are flying to over the break.

Prep your liquids

If you’re travelling internationally, don’t forget you can only take 100mls of liquid through security. So prepare in advance and stock up on miniature versions of all your toiletries.

Ditch your suitcase

As mentioned above, Sydney Airport is forecasting a total of 449,000 passengers transiting through it between Thursday 28 to Sunday March 31. And the more people travel, the more likely your bag is to go missing (or take an eternity to come out on the conveyor belt on the other side).

The solution? As Escape Social Media Editor Edwina Hart eloquently puts it: “Pack carry-on and flee as soon as you get off that flight.”

Bring a bumbag

Jana Frawley, Escape Content Director, says: “My number one rule is putting my passport in a safe but easily accessible location – nothing beats a crossbody bag, or, if you’re a man, a bum bag worn like a crossbody bag.”

“Don’t put it in the pocket of a backpack as you’ll have to swing it on and off your body at multiple points throughout your journey through the airport (annoying for everyone).”

Bring a water bottle

Who likes paying $3.50 for a bottle of water? Bring your own bottle and you’ll save yourself some cash.

Is Argentina safe to visit? How expensive is it? These Argentina travel tips from Buenos Aires local Martina will help you make the most of your time here.

1. How safe is Argentina?

Argentina is considered one of the safest countries in South America. Nonetheless, you should keep your eyes open when visiting cities like Rosario, Córdoba, or Mendoza. Petty crime rates in these cities are lower than Buenos Aires, but, for example, Rosario has been part of a drug-trafficking route for years, with increasing gang violence. Though this may not affect visitors, you should beware of suspicious situations.

Demonstrations in Argentina are common. Do your research before joining the crowds, and make sure it’s a cause you identify with. And regardless of the occasion, prioritize your personal safety and stay in a spot you could easily leave if things get heated.

Small towns in the countryside are generally safe and secure, but you should use common sense and never leave your items unattended.

2. Is Buenos Aires safe?

It’s always wise to be cautious when wandering urban areas. Though Buenos Aires is generally safe for travelers, it’s important to stay alert, as robbery is all too common.

If you plan to explore neighborhoods beyond the well-traveled areas, research beforehand, talk to a local, or book a tour.

Caminito (in La Boca), Palermo, and San Telmo are popular with visitors, but even here, if you keep wandering, you can end up in a not-so-nice area. Beware of this, especially at night. By all means, steer clear of public parks after sunset.

In general, the wealthiest neighborhoods are those north of Corrientes Avenue, whereas some of the most impoverished areas are located south of Rivadavia Avenue. Unfortunately, poorer areas often have higher crime rates.

Wherever you go, avoid talking on your phone on the street, keep valuable items in your pockets, and don’t wear expensive jewelry – especially necklaces, as these are easy to rip off. Always wear your purse or backpack on your front.

If going out at night, call a taxi or take an UBER. Avoid standing by the bus stops or taking the subway when there’s no one else around, as you could be putting yourself at risk.

3. Is Argentina expensive?

In 2023, Argentina is quite affordable for those bringing in high-value currencies. If on a tight budget, expect to spend as little as US $20-25 per day, including hostel accommodation, cheap eats, and local public transport.

Patagonia and some other areas favored by travelers – including coastal towns such as Mar Del Plata and Pinamar, or iconic Iguazu Falls – are pricier. These destinations are always in high demand, both among locals and international visitors. Travel in remote areas can also be more expensive, as the transport of supplies becomes more difficult.

4. Money tips

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Still, many restaurants, grocery stores, or hotels only accept cash or require a minimum expenditure before they let you swipe.

As Argentina is always battling inflation, exchange rates and regulations change quite often. When planning your trip, make sure to find information updated within the past three months.

Always keep cash and small change handy. If you need more, simply withdraw from one of the many ATMs scattered around cities and towns. Whatever you do, be discreet, avoid flashing your wallet, and don’t extract big amounts in one go.

A 10% to 15% tip is expected but not mandatory, especially when eating out.

5. What is the best time of year to visit Argentina?

As a rule of thumb, it’s best to visit between September and April (early spring through the beginning of fall). In the end, it will depend on where you decide to go, as the weather varies from region to region. But from spring to fall, you can generally find good weather around the country.

If you dislike extreme cold, avoid June-August, especially if heading to Patagonia. If intense heat is not your thing, skip Buenos Aires and the central and northeastern regions during summer. Here, you can expect 90°F (32°C) on a “cool” day.

Winters in Buenos Aires are mild, with temperatures ranging around 55°F (13°C). But, as you approach the south and westernmost regions, it starts to get more and more chilly.

When choosing what to pack, don’t forget sunscreen, as the sun in Argentina is seriously strong. Also, remember to bring layers of clothing. Many travelers visiting for two to three weeks choose to fly around the country because it’s so big. So, if you’re heading from Buenos Aires to Patagonia, you’ll likely experience a big temperature change.

Layering becomes essential when approaching the Andes, as temperatures drop suddenly from day to night, even over summer. Rain gear comes in handy especially when touring the central and northwestern regions, as it can rain buckets year-round. On average, November is the wettest month, country-wide.

6. Local public transport in Argentina

Argentina has a massive and budget-friendly public transit network. The easiest way get around most cities is with a SUBE card, which you can purchase in lottery shops, train and subway stations, and kiosks. This rechargeable card is not valid everywhere, but covers major urban areas and over 30 other smaller localities.

As long-distance buses are the main means of transportation outside of Buenos Aires, intercity trains have been neglected for decades. But recently, there’s been a resurgence of the Ferrocarril, connecting 12 of the 23 Argentinian provinces. If you have time, the trains are a leisurely way to explore parts of Argentina that are off the beaten path, but be warned that they can be slow, are not very comfortable, and sometimes may not leave on time.

7. Taking a taxi or an UBER

Catching a taxi is very easy in any Argentinian city and surrounding localities. As a precaution, especially at night, always ensure your taxi is licensed and belongs to a “Radio Taxi” company.

Some taxis will display a sign on the vehicle’s roof stating the company they belong to. If they don’t, and you decide to take it anyway, check out the taxi’s registration information displayed inside.

Be aware, taxis around the country have different colors. In Buenos Aires, they’re black and yellow, in Córdoba they’re white, and so on.

UBER became officially legal to use in Buenos Aires in September 2020, so now you can ride with peace of mind. UBER’s competitor, Cabify, is also available around the main cities.

8. Top places to visit in Argentina

Argentinian Patagonia, which covers nearly all of southern Argentina, is a must. As an avid traveler who loves to brag about her home country, I’ve yet to meet anyone daring to question the absolute beauty of this region, with its dramatic, snow-capped mountains, blue lakes, villages, glaciers, and incredible hikes.

Patagonian highlights include the Perito Moreno Glacier, Bariloche in the Lake District, Argentina’s hiking capital El Chaltén, remote Ushuaia at the tip of Tierra del Fuego, and Cerro Aconcagua, the tallest mountain in the Americas, in Mendoza (slightly north of the official start of Argentinian Patagonia).

A popular itinerary for road-trippers is a tour of the country’s west, driving along Route 40. This drive skirts the Andes, and also covers the regions north of Patagonia – Cuyo and Northwest. The Andes is the longest mountain range in the world, and its southernmost stretch is home to the highest peaks in the Western Hemisphere, so be prepared for altitude sickness (as I learned the hard way).

Argentina’s north offers a wholly different travel experience, ranging from the arid and striking landscapes of Salta and Jujuy, near Bolivia, to the country’s very own New Wonder of the World, 269ft (82m) high, 1.6mi (2.7km) wide Iguazu Falls, in a lush rainforest along the Brazilian border.

Mendoza, in the Cuyo Region of the central-west, is famous for wine, but this sometimes-underrated region is also filled with otherworldly landscapes, like the Pampa Negra, a volcanic black desert in Mendoza Province, the moon-like formations at the Valle de la Luna, the windy flats of Barreal in San Juan, and the Grand Canyon-esque Sierra De Las Quijadas in San Luis.

Other standout natural landmarks in Argentina are the Esteros del Iberá, vast wetlands in Corrientes, and the wildlife-rich Valdes Peninsula in Chubut.

Travelers eager for a dose of urban life should know Buenos Aires has a reputation as a city that never sleeps. Museums, restaurants, nightlife, tango, and more make the Porteñian city sing. But Córdoba, Rosario, and Mendoza are also buzzing cities packed with activities, local culture, and great food. Try Rosario’s staple toastie – a carlitos – a traditional empanada Cordobesa, or a Mendozan classic such as humita en chala.