The top European city breaks that Brits can reach by train have been unveiled.
If the thought of getting to the airport hours early for a flight or driving across Europe fills you with dread, then trains could be the perfect solution for your next holiday.
As we move into the shoulder season, many global tourist hotspots may become more affordable now that the summer holidays have ended.
Consumer site Which? has revealed its official list of the best city destinations reachable by train from the UK.
Topping the list is the Belgian city of Bruges, just a quick three-and-a-half-hour train journey from London, earning an impressive 85 per cent city score.
The city received high marks in the Which? survey for food and drink, accommodation, cultural sights and attractions, ease of getting around, and value for money, reports the Mirror.
Which? also provided the average hotel rate in each city, so you can find a room in Bruges for approximately £138.
Famous for its canals, cobbled streets and medieval buildings, you can explore its historic centre; the Markt, the city’s main square and home to one of the world’s best Christmas markets; Belfort, the most significant of Bruges’ towers standing at 83m tall; and De Halve Maan Brewery, to name just a few highlights.
The top three cities in Which’s list were Bordeaux, France (84 per cent), Amsterdam, Netherlands (82 per cent), and Avignon, France (also 82 per cent).
Bordeaux was also named as the best rail break for food and drink, being one of only two cities to be awarded the full five stars, alongside Lyon.
Bordeaux, a six-hour train ride from London, is renowned for its extensive vineyards, Bazas beef and oysters.
For those seeking local culture, Amsterdam and Avignon topped the list, receiving full marks for their cultural sights and attractions.
Amsterdam boasts attractions such as the Royal Palace, the Rembrandt House Museum, Anne Frank House, and the Rijksmuseum.
Meanwhile, Avignon offers a taste of Provence with the Popes’ Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Amsterdam is a direct four-hour trip from the UK, while Avignon takes six hours.
Rotterdam also received special mention, making the top five in the survey.
Other cities included Ghent, Belgium; Paris, France; Strasbourg, France; Cologne, Germany; Lyon, France; Brussels, Belgium; Lille, France; Basel, Switzerland; Frankfurt, Germany; Marseille, France; and Geneva, Switzerland.
