Last Updated 8 mins ago
Have you ever found yourself feeling a pang of envy over the ease with which Europeans can navigate their enchanting medieval towns, while those of us from America often perceive these gems as tantalizingly distant? Rest assured, you’re in good company with that sentiment.
Even though the United States boasts numerous connections to Europe, the majority of flights funnel into popular cities such as Barcelona, Rome, Paris, and London. Consequently, access to lesser-known, captivating destinations is often constrained, or in some cases, nonexistent.
However, this travel hindrance is about to change.
Starting in 2025, travel enthusiasts will have the opportunity to book combined plane and train tickets to discover up to 9 extraordinary hidden gems scattered across Europe, unlocking locations that major airlines like American, Delta, or United typically overlook:
Two Transport Modes, One Reservation
As revealed by Connexion France, in the first half of 2025, the airline alliance SkyTeam—which encompasses Aeromexico, Air Europa, Air France, Delta Air Lines, ITA Airways, KLM, Virgin Atlantic, and numerous others—will collaborate with Eurostar to provide combined bookings.
This innovative approach means that travelers booking flights through any participating airline will enjoy the convenience of being able to seamlessly transition from plane to train upon arriving in Europe, eliminating the hassle of purchasing separate tickets for subsequent segments of their journey.
According to SkyTeam’s CEO, the partnership with Eurostar signifies their commitment to providing a more integrated travel experience, enhancing the journey through intermodal travel.
As one of Europe’s largest cross-border rail operators, Eurostar connects travelers to 27 unique destinations across 5 different countries, making it the preferred option for tourists exploring Europe’s diverse landscapes, especially when covering medium distances.
Why Does This Matter To American Travelers?
The major advantage for American travelers is the elimination of the need to juggle multiple tickets—from flying to international trains and local trains—when seeking out secondary European destinations that lack direct flights from the U.S.
While a transfer will still be required upon arrival, the simplification of previously holding numerous bookings means fewer headaches and less of the painstaking process of confirming 2 to 3 reservations for every leg of the journey. This change is particularly relevant when considering the potential pitfalls—delays or cancellations—that can occur at any stage of travel.
If you’ve ever encountered the frustrating experience of missing a flight connection due to a late train, only to find no assistance from the next provider, you’re well aware of these travel dilemmas.
So, which hidden corners of Europe, yet to be uncovered by the majority of American tourists, can you reach with this game-changing combined plane and train ticket starting in 2025?
Here’s Every Destination You Can Visit With A Combined Plane + Train Ticket From 2025
Arriving in London, United Kingdom or Cologne, Germany
Arriving in Paris, France
- Lille, France
- Liège, Belgium
- Aachen, Germany
- Essen, Germany
In winter only:
- Moûtiers-Salins-Brides-Les-Bains
- Aime-La-Plagne
- Bourg-Saint-Maurice
Arriving in Brussels, Belgium or Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Lille, France
- Liège, Belgium
- Aachen, Germany
- Essen, Germany
Seasonal only:
- Chambéry, France
- Albertville, France
- Moûtiers-Salins-Brides-Les-Bains, France
- Aime-La-Plagne, France
- Landry, France
- Bourg-Saint-Maurice, France
- Valence, France
- Avignon, France
- Aix-en-Provence, France
In total, 9 lesser-known European destinations will soon be easily accessible for American travelers, all while bypassing the tedious task of researching dependable railway operators and available routes—your airline and Eurostar will handle that logistics for you.
Northern France, Flanders And Western Germany:
Lille
For those whose winter travel goals include marveling at stunning half-timbered architecture that resembles something out of a fairy tale, Lille should definitely be on your itinerary.
This charming city, known for its Flemish-inspired city center and the iconic Grand Place, quietly boasts a rich cultural heritage: it was vital to Europe’s mercantile trade during the Middle Ages and is the birthplace of General de Gaulle, a revered figure in French history.
Liège
Perched along the scenic banks of the Meuse River, Liège offers an enchanting alternative to the crowd-filled streets of Brussels and Ghent. Not only is it less busy, but its medieval core doubles as an open-air museum, showcasing history like few places can.
Must-visit spots include the Romanesque Church of St. Bartholomew, the Grand Curtius Museum for history buffs drawn to archaeology, along with the renowned Montagne de Bueren, a remarkable 374-step staircase that connects the lower town to a 13th-century citadel.
Aachen
Aachen is distinguished as one of Germany’s oldest cities, housing a wealth of medieval structures that were fortuitously preserved through World War II. It is a beautiful mélange of cobblestone streets, chic boutiques, inviting squares with artistic fountains, and stunning Romanesque churches.
The city’s cathedral, established in 800 AD, is the final resting place of Charlemagne, while the neighboring Town Hall is celebrated as one of the most exquisite Baroque edifices throughout Germanic Europe. Don’t overlook the Elisenbrunnen with its reputedly healing sulfurous springs!
Essen
Often overlooked by tourists due to its industrial past, Essen has transformed itself into a treasure trove of culture. You’ll no longer see tall chimneys belching smoke, but rather, you can explore historical sites such as the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, a UNESCO-protected landmark that now serves as a fascinating museum.
The elegant Villa Hügel, once the opulent residence of the industrialist Krupp family, is another highlight, currently housing a noteworthy art collection.
Alpine France:
Chambéry
Best enjoyed in winter, when the breathtaking Alps are cloaked in snow, Chambéry transforms into a magical alpine paradise adorned with wellness spas, ski resorts, and a rich tapestry of historical attractions.
Be sure to warm up with steaming hot chocolate and take a moment to visit the historic Castle of the Dukes of Savoy, which not only offers a permanent exhibit that unfolds its history but also serves as a vantage point for panoramic views of the area.
Albertville, France
Set against the backdrop of the scenic Savoy hills and near Italy and Switzerland, Albertville is a more relaxed alternative to the typical bustling alpine locations, granting access to ski stations in Val Thorens, Les Menuires, and Courchevel. Moreover, its charming Old Town offers a perfect retreat for travelers looking to unwind.
Food enthusiasts will relish this destination for its exquisite local delicacies like raclette, tantalizing charcuterie boards, and scrumptious French onion soup topped with crispy croutons— all available without the exorbitant price tag associated with more touristy locales.
Southern France:
Valence
Straddling the southeastern section of France, Valence harmoniously marries Paris’ elegant north end with the laid-back Italian aesthetics typical of the south, offering a unique residential environment.
Key landmarks include the stunning 16th-century Maison des Têtes, or House of Heads, the striking medieval Château de Crussol, and the impressive St-Apollinaire Cathedral, not to mention the picturesque Jouvet Park, which is traversed by tranquil canals.
Avignon
In the heart of Provence lies Avignon, once the seat of the papacy during the 14th century, brimming with historical marvels—including Roman bridges and well-preserved city walls—that could easily fill several days’ worth of exploration.
The celebrated Palace of the Popes stands out as one of Europe’s most remarkable fortifications, embodying the grandeur of its era and reflecting Avignon’s vital role in Catholic history; it ranks among France’s most treasured patrimoines, akin to Notre Dame de Paris and Mont Saint-Michel.
Aix-en-Provence
The final hidden gem on this captivating journey is Aix-en-Provence, the jewel of the Provence region, showcasing beautiful pastel façades and striking Catalonian influences that evoke impressions of an artist’s canvas.
Not only is it the birthplace of legendary Post-Impressionist painter Paul Cézanne, but you can also visit his childhood home and studio (Atelier Cézanne), while admiring the exquisite architecture of the Romanesque and Gothic Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur and the historic Archbishop’s Palace.
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Interview on Upcoming Train-Air Travel Partnership in Europe
Editor: Welcome, everyone! Today, we have travel expert and journalist Mia Thompson with us to discuss an exciting new development in European travel that could revolutionize how Americans explore the continent. Mia, thank you for joining us!
Mia Thompson: Thank you for having me! I’m thrilled to talk about this exciting change.
Editor: So, let’s get straight to the point. What is this new travel initiative that starts in 2025, and why is it significant for American travelers?
Mia Thompson: Starting in 2025, SkyTeam, a major airline alliance, will partner with Eurostar to offer combined plane and train ticket bookings. This means that travelers can book a single ticket that covers both their flight and any train journey in Europe, connecting to lesser-known, yet incredible destinations like Lille, Liège, and Aachen—places often overlooked by American tourists.
Editor: That sounds like a game changer! What do you think are the biggest challenges American travelers face when exploring Europe right now?
Mia Thompson: One of the biggest issues has been managing multiple bookings. The process of juggling separate tickets for flights, trains, and even local transport can be daunting, especially if there are delays or cancellations. This new intermodal travel approach streamlines the entire process, which reduces stress significantly.
Editor: Speaking of destinations, can you highlight a few of these hidden gems that will become more accessible through this initiative?
Mia Thompson: Absolutely! For instance, Lille offers stunning Flemish architecture and a rich cultural heritage. Liège has a more relaxed atmosphere with its medieval core, while Aachen is steeped in history as a former residence of Charlemagne. Each of these places has distinct attractions that set them apart from the usual tourist traps.
Editor: What kind of feedback are you anticipating from travelers once this system is implemented?
Mia Thompson: I think travelers will appreciate the simplified booking process a lot. The ease of planning a trip to multiple cities without the headache of multiple confirmations is likely to attract more adventurous travelers eager to explore beyond the well-trodden paths of major European cities.
Editor: That sounds promising! Do you foresee any potential drawbacks to this new booking method?
Mia Thompson: One potential drawback could be the initial learning curve. Some travelers might be used to traditional booking methods and may need time to adapt to combining their air and rail travel. However, I believe the convenience will outweigh any issues in the long run.
Editor: Before we wrap up, is there any advice you’d give to travelers looking forward to this change?
Mia Thompson: Definitely! Research these lesser-known destinations now and start planning routes that interest you. Familiarize yourself with the cultural highlights and attractions of each place. When the booking system goes live, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your European adventure!
Editor: Thank you so much, Mia. This new development could really enhance the travel experience for Americans. We look forward to seeing how this unfolds!
Mia Thompson: Thank you! I’m excited to see travelers embrace Europe in this new way.
European destinations will be a major selling point. They’ll no longer have to research separate train operators or navigate multiple reservations. I expect a lot of excitement about having access to these hidden gems, as well as relief from the stress of travel logistics.
Editor: It definitely sounds like it will enhance the travel experience for many. With the combined tickets, are there any specific benefits you see for those looking to explore during peak travel seasons?
Mia Thompson: Yes, combining flights and trains means that travelers can plan itineraries that flow more naturally, even during peak seasons. With fewer transfers to manage, it allows for a more leisurely exploration of cities and regions. Plus, since some of these destinations are lesser-known, they may be less crowded than the major tourist hotspots, making for a more enjoyable experience.
Editor: Great points, Mia. Any final thoughts for travelers eager to explore these new routes and destinations?
Mia Thompson: I’d encourage travelers to keep an eye on the specific destinations being added and to start dreaming up their ideal itineraries! This partnership opens up incredible opportunities to discover Europe like never before, so start planning for 2025—it’s going to be an exciting leap for travel!
Editor: Thank you so much for your insight, Mia! We’re all looking forward to this change in travel dynamics, and we appreciate you sharing your expertise with us today.
Mia Thompson: Thank you for having me! Happy travels!