Calling All Continent Hoppers! How to Trainspot Your Way from London to Zurich
So, you've decided to ditch the plane and embrace the romance of the rails – excellent choice! Forget the questionable airplane snacks and the questionable in-flight entertainment (looking at you, endless reruns of that one rom-com), a train journey from London to Zurich is a scenic adventure waiting to happen. But fear not, intrepid traveller, this guide will have you navigating those platforms like a pro.
Step 1: Embrace the Eurostar
Think James Bond, think stylish departures, think zipping under the English Channel at warp speed (well, not quite warp speed, but fast enough). The Eurostar is your chariot out of London, whisking you from King's Cross St. Pancras all the way to Paris Gare du Nord. Just picture yourself reclining in your plush seat, a cup of tea in hand (or a glass of bubbly if you're feeling fancy), watching the English countryside turn into French vineyards.
Top Tip: Pack a picnic! French baguettes and cheese never tasted better than devoured on a train journey.
Step 2: Bonjour from the City of Lights!
Ah, Paris. City of love, city of croissants, city of conveniently located train stations. You'll have a short hop from Gare du Nord to Gare de Lyon, where you'll catch your TGV Lyria train to Zurich. This is your chance to stretch your legs, maybe grab a pain au chocolat (or two), and brush up on your French pleasantries (a simple "bonjour" goes a long way).
Fun Fact: The TGV Lyria trains are sleek and speedy, reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h. That's faster than most sports cars – imagine bragging rights!
Step 3: Welcome to Switzerland!
After whizzing through the French countryside (hopefully catching a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower in the distance if you lingered at Gare de Lyon for a bit too long), you'll be rolling into Zurich HB, the heart of this beautiful Swiss city.
Local Knowledge: Switzerland is known for its stunning scenery, so keep your eyes peeled as you travel. You might even catch a glimpse of the snowy peaks of the Alps in the distance.
FAQ
How to pack for a train journey?
Layers are your friend! Train carriages can fluctuate in temperature, so pack clothes you can easily add or remove. Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating stations and exploring Zurich.
How to find the best train deals?
Booking tickets in advance usually gets you the cheapest fares. Consider booking a few months ahead, especially during peak travel times.
How long does the train journey take?
The entire trip from London to Zurich can take anywhere between 7 and 9 hours, depending on the route and connections.
What are the border formalities?
Switzerland is not part of the European Union, so you may need to show your passport at border control.
Do I need travel insurance?
It's always a good idea to get travel insurance, just in case of unexpected delays or cancellations.
So there you have it! With this guide and a healthy dose of wanderlust, you'll be traversing Europe by train like a seasoned pro in no time. Now get packing, book those tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
