A Summer Rail Adventure
Last updated May 02, 2025
A Summer Rail Adventure with Staycity
There’s something uniquely thrilling about train travel. Looking out the window watching landscapes unfold, feeling the rhythm of the rails, and stepping straight into the heart of a city. This summer, why not plan an epic rail adventure with an unforgettable train journey across Europe, staying in our fantastic aparthotels along the way? From the first stop in Dublin all the way to the finale in Venice, here’s a rundown of how we would plan our ultimate Summer train adventure!
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Dublin
Begin your travels in Dublin (okay, there might be one boat involved!), a vibrant city bursting with things to see and do! Summer is the perfect time to visit Dublin, with its coastal charm, sunny city parks, and endless activities. Enjoy alfresco dining, catch an open-air concert, or take a leisurely stroll along the Liffey to soak in the atmosphere. With seven aparthotels across the city, we have the perfect stay for everyone. Travelling with friends or a larger group? Our spacious two- and three-bedroom apartments at Dublin Castle, City Quay, Christchurch and Augustine offer plenty of room, while fully equipped kitchens make it super simple to prepare a breakfast or dinner in when you don’t feel like eating out. Once you've made the most of Dublin, hop on the ferry from Dublin’s port to Holyhead and continue your adventure in London! The crossing takes about 3.5 hours, and once you arrive in Holyhead there is a direct train to London. So far, so simple!
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London
Next, spend a few unforgettable days exploring London. Wander through world-famous landmarks like Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London and Big Ben, or lose yourself in the eclectic streets of Camden and Soho. Indulge in afternoon tea, explore the city’s thriving food scene, or catch a West End show for an unforgettable evening. With countless museums, galleries, and parks to enjoy, there’s always something to do, whether you're a first-time visitor or a London expert. We have two wonderful aparthotels in London. Opt for our Dalston property if you fancy being in the heart of trendy East London, or choose our Greenwich location if village charm and maritime history is more your thing.
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When it’s time for the next leg of your journey, hop on the Eurostar from London St Pancras and speed through the Channel Tunnel to Brussels – this takes just two hours. After a quick change, hop on the high-speed 3-hour ICE train bound for Frankfurt, a city where old-world charm meets modern innovation.
Frankfurt
As Germany’s financial powerhouse, Frankfurt boasts an impressive skyline, yet its charming old town offers a glimpse into the rich past of the city. Stroll through Römerberg Square, lined with picturesque half-timbered houses, or visit the iconic St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral for breathtaking views. Culture lovers will be spoiled for choice with the city’s renowned museums along the Museum Embankment, while foodies can sample local specialties like pretzels and the famous Apfelwein (apple cider) in a traditional tavern.
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Our Frankfurt aparthotel is right beside Frankfurt’s Gateway Gardens and just 15 minutes from the city centre by train, making onward travel easy. From the Gateway Gardens, simply hop on the S-Bahn S8 or S9 towards Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Main Station), and from there transfer onto a regional train (RE) or an Intercity (IC) train to Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof. You’ll be hopping off in beautiful Heidelberg in just over an hour!
Heidelberg
Step into a storybook as you arrive in Heidelberg, a city famed for its romantic charm and timeless beauty. Nestled along the Neckar River and surrounded by lush hills, Heidelberg is home to Germany’s oldest university and a stunning hilltop castle that offers breathtaking views over the red-roofed old town. Wander along the charming Hauptstrasse, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, lined with boutiques, cafés, and traditional beer gardens. Cross the Old Bridge for a perfect photo opportunity, or take a peaceful stroll along the Philosopher’s Walk, where poets and thinkers once found inspiration. Heidelberg really is an undiscovered gem.
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After a day of exploring, relax in our fabulous aparthotel, the perfect base to soak in the magic of this enchanting city. Located just 8 minutes from the city’s main train station, here we have studio, 1 and 2 bedroom apartments, so can accommodate solo travellers, couples, or larger groups comfortably.
Paris
After your visit to Heidelberg, we recommend heading back to Frankfurt to catch the TGV to Paris – a smooth, high-speed ride that gets you there in just four hours. Sit back, relax, and watch the countryside fly by as you approach your next destination: the enchanting city of Paris.
We have three fantastic aparthotels in Paris, each offering a unique experience. Travelling with kids or feel like letting your inner child run wild? Our aparthotel near Disneyland Paris is a perfect choice. Prefer to stay in the heart of the action? Our Gare de l’Est property places you right in central Paris. Or, if you’re curious about a different side of the city, our La Défense location offers a sleek stay in Paris’s modern business district. No matter which location you choose, you’ll be perfectly connected to explore everything this iconic city has to offer.
In Paris, there is no end of things to see and do. Wander along the Seine, marvel at the Eiffel Tower, and soak up culture at world-renowned sites like the Louvre and Notre-Dame. Lose yourself in the artistic charm of Montmartre, enjoy flaky croissants at a local café, or shop to your heart’s content on the stylish Champs-Élysées. As the sun sets, take a river cruise or catch a show at the legendary Moulin Rouge.
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When you're ready for the next leg of you adventure, hop back on the TGV and head south to Bordeaux – a city rich in history, stunning architecture, and, of course, world-famous wine!
Bordeaux
Catch the TGV from Paris’s Montparnasse station and find yourself in beautiful Bordeaux in just two hours. Known for its exceptional wines, elegant architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, Bordeaux’s historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site that perfectly blends heritage and modern charm. Take in the grandeur of Place de la Bourse and its magical Water Mirror, delve into the world of wine at the immersive Cité du Vin museum, or venture out to the nearby vineyards of Saint-Émilion for a scenic day trip.
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Our aparthotel is nestled right in the heart of Bordeaux’s historic centre, just a short walk from the riverfront and close to all the main attractions. With stylish studio apartments that are both beautiful and practical, it’s the perfect base for solo travellers and couples, or groups who want the comfort of their own space while exploring the city.
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Whether you're sipping wine along the Garonne or soaking up the café culture on a sunny terrace, Bordeaux is sure to captivate you. And when it’s time to move on, the high-speed TGV will carry you south in comfort - just five hours later, you’ll be basking in the sunshine of Marseille.
Marseille
Marseille is a buzzing port city with plenty of Mediterranean charm. Stroll along the bustling Vieux-Port, where fishing boats and yachts bob in the water, or wander through the winding streets of Le Panier, the city's oldest neighbourhood, bursting with history, colour, and creativity. Don’t miss the ancient fortress of Château d’If, made famous by The Count of Monte Cristo, offering stunning views of the city and sea. Indulge in delicious fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant or sip a refreshing drink at one of the many lively bars nearby. For nature lovers, the dramatic Calanques coastline—just a short trip from the city—offers breathtaking cliffs, hidden coves, and turquoise waters perfect for hiking, swimming, or kayaking.
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Our aparthotel in Marseille is ideally located, just a 5-minute walk from the famous Old Port and close to a host of fantastic bars and restaurants. Whether you're exploring ancient fortresses, relaxing by the sea, or enjoying the buzz of Marseille’s uber-cool bar and restaurant scene, this city promises an unforgettable experience on the Mediterranean coast.
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Venice
Next up is the longest stretch of your journey - but trust us, it’s more than worth it for dazzling Venice! From Marseille, board the TGV for a scenic seven-hour ride through the stunning Italian countryside en route to Milan. Settle in with a good book, some snacks, and enjoy watching the landscapes change as you cross the border. Once in Milan, a quick transfer onto a high-speed train gets you to Venice in just 2.5 hours, arriving just in time to see the city’s canals glowing in the golden evening light.
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An iconic city of romance and charm, Venice enchants with its winding waterways, grand palaces, and picturesque piazzas. Drift along the Grand Canal on a gondola, marvel at the ornate beauty of St. Mark’s Basilica, or lose yourself in the maze of alleyways dotted with artisan boutiques and hidden cafés. Soak up the atmosphere at the bustling Rialto Market or nibble on cicchetti (Venetian tapas) at a traditional bacaro with a glass of local wine in hand.
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For a peaceful stay a little away from the crowds, our aparthotel is located in Mestre, offering the perfect balance of calm and convenience. You’ll be just a 12 minute train or bus journey into the centre of Venice.
From Dublin’s lively streets to Venice’s winding canals, this rail adventure takes you through some of Europe’s most captivating cities. And with Staycity Aparthotels offering comfort and flexibility at every stop, your unforgettable summer journey is yours for the taking!
