How to book a city break by train

City breaks are perfect for those in search of a short break in a new destination where you can combine sightseeing and a wide variety of food and entertainment in a convenient space. Booking a city break by train is a great way to get right to the heart of things and can be cost-effective too. We’ve come up with some top tips and suggestions for planning your perfect city break by train.

 

Arriving in a new city by train is one of the best ways to experience the life of the city and means you will step off the platform right into the city centre, so you don’t have to worry about wasting time with airport transfers. Most cities will have accommodation located within walking distance of the main station too, which is a great option for city breaks although can be slightly more expensive than accommodation further out. Whichever you choose, booking a city break by train is easy and efficient and is also a carbon-friendly option.

 

Deciding where to go on your cheap city break by train can be a real challenge with so many great cities accessible for those travelling from or within the UK. Some of the most convenient UK city breaks by train include London, York, Durham, Newcastle and Edinburgh, all situated along the fast East Coast mainline. Other good options from London are Brighton, Oxford and Winchester, all within an hour by train and perfect for a weekend city break away from the capital. Of course, city breaks by train aren’t limited to the UK either with the Eurostar connecting the UK with Paris, Calais and Brussels directly and hundreds of other European cities with simple and fast connections from Eurostar terminals.    

 

If you’re looking to plan a city break by train without breaking the bank, then booking in advance is essential. Most train fares will go up the closer you get to your departure date so decide when and where you’re travelling a few months before you set off to get the best deals. Booking accommodation near the station is also a good option and this can be more popular than other accommodation so book in advance here too to avoid a last minute rush. Finally, the best way to travel when you’re planning a relaxing break by train is light so you can hop on and off without dragging around a heavy suitcase.

 

A good guidebook or information of specific attractions is essential for any city break so that you don’t miss out on the best bits of your chosen destination. When booking a city break by train, it’s also a good idea to find an up to date train timetable in case of any unexpected delays. And if you’re heading abroad, don’t forget to take your passport too which you will need on the train when crossing borders.