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Avignon is one of Provence’s most atmospheric cities — medieval walls, lively squares, elegant streets and one of Europe’s greatest Gothic palaces. With rail connections from Paris, Lyon and Marseille via Avignon TGV, it’s an easy and rewarding weekend destination without needing a car. This guide covers what to see, where to eat, Provençal dishes, where to stay, day trips and how to arrive smoothly by train. Why Go? Avignon is full of character: grand architecture, sunny caf

Annecy is one of France’s most picturesque small cities — a turquoise lake framed by mountains, pastel canals, medieval streets and fresh Alpine air. With direct regional trains from Lyon, Geneva and Chambéry, Annecy is an easy and scenic weekend destination without needing a car. The city is walkable, peaceful and full of opportunities for lakeside strolls, cosy cafés and panoramic viewpoints. This guide covers what to see, where to eat, classic Savoyard dishes, where to sta

Amiens is one of northern France’s most underrated small cities — home to the largest Gothic cathedral in the country, romantic canals, floating gardens, and a charming old quarter. With direct trains from Paris Gare du Nord, Lille and Rouen, it is an easy, peaceful and rewarding weekend destination without needing a car. This guide covers what to see, where to eat, classic Picard dishes, where to stay, how to explore beyond the city, and how to arrive smoothly by train. Why

Marseille is one of France’s most vibrant coastal cities: a mix of Mediterranean sunshine, sea views, colourful neighbourhoods, excellent seafood and fascinating cultural layers. With fast rail connections from Paris, Lyon, Nice and Avignon, it is a perfect weekend destination without needing a car. The city is walkable in many parts, well connected by metro and bus, and full of scenic waterfront strolls. This guide covers what to see, where to eat, what local dishes really a

Honfleur Harbour, Normandy Normandy is one of the easiest regions to reach from Paris, making it ideal for a weekend escape by rail. With fast connections to Caen and Rouen, charming coastal towns, impressive medieval cities and the powerful history of the D-Day landing beaches, Normandy offers a varied and rewarding short break without the need for a car. This guide covers what to see, how to get around, what Norman dishes really are, where to eat, where to stay, and how to

An ancient city reborn in the heart of Basilicata Few places feel as otherworldly as Matera , with its labyrinth of cave dwellings and...

Syracuse blends Greek ruins, baroque streets, and seaside charm. A weekend here lets you step into antiquity while enjoying Sicilian food...

Bari, the capital of Puglia, combines a historic old town with a vibrant waterfront. From here, trains and buses take you to seaside...

Quiet Beach on Adriatic Coast The Adriatic coast south of Bologna offers sandy beaches, Renaissance towns, and lively piazzas. With...

Palermo is a feast for the senses: baroque churches, bustling markets, and a cuisine that blends Arab, Norman, and Italian traditions. A...

Procida Island, Bay of Naples The Bay of Naples is scattered with islands, each with its own character. Capri is glamorous, Ischia is...

On Tuscany’s Monte Argentario peninsula, Porto Ercole is a chic fishing town with sandy coves, Spanish forts, and excellent seafood. It’s...

September is one of the best months to explore the Cinque Terre. The summer crowds have thinned, the weather is still warm enough for...

Venice in Autumn is wonderful — but just beyond the lagoon lie some of Italy’s most beautiful and underrated cities and towns, all easily reached by train.  Whether you're after art, wine, hilltop views, or a quiet piazza to escape the tourist trail, the Veneto region delivers — and all without a rental car. Padua Here are 4 of our favourite Veneto day trips from Venice — each less than 90 minutes away. 1. Treviso – Venice’s Quieter Cousin (35 min by train) With its canals,

If you're heading north by train — or coming from Milan, Genoa, or even France — don’t overlook Turin (Torino).  Just a short train ride...

Venice may be all romance and canals, but if you're looking for a change of scene, fresh sea air, and fewer tourists in August, hop a...