Most of us love to travel, and it has to be said that social networks don’t help curb this trend. But a little voice in our heads – along with our eco-conscious friends and the media – often reminds us how important it is to respect the environment by reducing our impact. Unfortunately, travel often means flying, and as we all know, it’s better to take the train. That’s why, at Marseille Secrète, we set out to find destinations where we could travel by direct train. Just hop on the train, close your eyes for a few hours and voilà! You’ve arrived. Although it can sometimes take a while, it’s not always longer than flying, because you don’t have to be there three hours early, or take a 45-minute cab or bus ride to get to the city center. Enough discussion, discover the destinations where you can go directly by train!
Travelling abroad by train
1. Madrid – Spain
Have you ever been to Madrid? If not, you absolutely must visit at least once. This city is simply incredible! The atmosphere is both soothing and lively, the people are friendly and friendly, and you feel safe and secure. Numerous restaurants and bars offer fabulous tapas and good cheer. The streets of Madrid invite you to discover magnificent architecture and neighborhoods as diverse as they are lively. Although in the heart of Spain, the city is very green. In terms of parks, we recommend the immense Casa del Campo park, which takes you right into the heart of nature just a stone’s throw from the city (you may even come across some sheep there), as well as the must-see Retiro park ! Water features, tall trees, beautiful architecture– it’s all there! And as luck would have it, the Atocha station, where you arrive from Marseille, is right next door! And you’ll be glad you popped in after your 7h41-hour journey!
🚉 Journey time: 7h41, often from 8h04 to 15h45
2. Barcelona – Spain
If we had our doubts about Madrid, we’re not so sure about Barcelona. It’s one of the top destinations for people from Marseilles, with the sea, the beach, parties and magnificent parks! What more could you ask for? La Pedrera, La Sagrada Familia, Parc Güell and La Casa Batllo are just a few of the many attractions on offer, and whether you like sightseeing or lounging on the beach in the sun after an all-night dance party, you’ll love Barcelona! Like the Spaniards, the city is welcoming and pleasant, even if it’s true that it’s better to go there outside the vacation season, as it seems that the city’s assets have spread around the world! In this case, the train is much more convenient and less time-consuming than the plane, so you can opt for the train with your eyes closed!
🚉 Journey time: 4h34, often from 8h04 to 12h38
3. Brussels – Belgium
As with the Spanish capital, the Belgian capital is full of treasures. Whether it’s the 17th-century architectural wonders of Ghent-Place, the Saints-Michel-et-Gudule Cathedral, the Cinquantenaire Park or the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, there’s plenty to see! And that’s not even mentioning the pubs where you can sample beers that live up to the hype! Of course, you’re bound to stop off for a waffle or a cornet de frites during your stroll! The atmosphere is so jovial that it’s easy to understand why Angèle repeats “Bruxelles, je t’aime” (“Brussels, I love you“). Although this northern city isn’t next door, you’ll be surprised to find that it doesn’t take you that long to get there! It’s a lot like flying!
🚉 Travel time: 5h32
4. Luxembourg – Luxembourg
We don’t hear much about this tiny country whose capital bears the same name, and yet there’s a direct train linking it to Marseille! Sure, it takes 7h55, but the fact that you don’t have to go out on the platform with your suitcases to change trains is priceless! If you’re in the mood for a change of scenery and have already traveled all over Europe, you’ll be delighted to discover this country’s capital. If you like picturesque, verdant spots, castles and nature nearby, Luxembourg is the place for you, far from the hustle and bustle of the big capitals. We urge you to visit the Neumünster corniche, nicknamed “the most beautiful balcony in Europe“, no less! It’s a sight to behold!
🚉 Journey time: 7h55, often from 15h54 to 23h49
5. Frankfurt – Germany
You’re bound to have heard of Frankfurt, if only for its sausages! But that’s not the only reason to visit this charming German city. As well as being disoriented by the weather (there’s a good chance of rain) and the feeling of being on a jet lag after sleeping 7 hours on the train, you’ll be disoriented by the city’s fascinating architecture, which is a delightful mix of picturesque houses and tall buildings. Here, you’ll get a taste of Germany’s unbridled nightlife and art through the city’s various museums. And if you like to see the big picture, you have to climb to the top of the Main Tower for a panoramic view of the whole city! And if you’ve already visited Frankfurt, you can also take the same direct train to Mannheim, Karlsruhe or Baden-Baden!
🚉 Journey time: 7:45 a.m., often from 8:12 a.m. to 3:59 p.m.
Travelling by train in France
6. Briançon, in the heart of the mountains
If you’re familiar with the Serre-Chevalier ski resort, you’ve probably heard of Briançon. Nestled in the heart of the mountains, it’s the highest town in France! As well as being right in the middle of nature, with hiking trails around every corner, you’ll enjoy wandering through the narrow streets of the Vauban town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by forts, the town boasts a unique charm and breathtaking panorama. Although known for its ski resort, it’s a lively town all year round, with many small shops and restaurants to tempt you. If you love the mountains, we strongly advise you to go there in spring, as they come alive with a thousand colors and compete with artificial intelligence on every level! So, are you ready for adventure?
🚉 Journey time: 4h35
7. Paris, the city of light
Well, I don’t need to introduce you to our capital city, and although it’s not as nice as Marseille (given that Parisians all spend their vacations here), we have to admit that there are a couple of nice things to see in Paris – it’s even said to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world! When it comes to monuments, it’s true that there are some magnificent things to see at least once in your life, such as the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, Notre Dame, the Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre! When it comes to gastronomy, you’re in for a treat, and when it comes to culture, there’s no denying that there’s plenty to do! Whether you like art, music or fashion, it’s the place to be! And… it’s not the sea, but the quays of the Seine are well worth the 3-hour train journey from Marseille to Paris. And if you like a challenge, you can wear an OM jersey as you stroll down the street – it’ll spice up your stay!
🚉 Journey time: 3h04
8. Lyon, the capital of gastronomy
As well as going there for a good restaurant or to share a good beer with friends and family, Lyon is as lively a city as Paris and Marseille. In Lyon, you can stroll the streets to discover concept stores, vintage boutiques and small cafés. In the evenings, you can party in atypical venues or at the guinguettes along the quays. Above all, we like to spend long hours in the Parc de la tête d’or , strolling or lying on the lawn after admiring the view from the steps in the middle of the lake. Of course, you’ll have to go to Les Halles de Lyon to get a real taste of Lyon’s gastronomy. For a journey time of just 1h40, how can you resist the temptation?
🚉 Journey time: 1h40
9. Nice, the beauty of the Côte d’Azur
Head for the Côte d’Azur in just 2h40 of travel time, and what a journey it is! This train line is surely one of the most beautiful! Everyone knows Cannes, of course, but have you ever been to Nice? Nice is the best of both worlds. The sea in front of you and the mountains just over an hour away, and either way, the scenery is magnificent! As for the city, there’s plenty to do, from restaurants to boutiques! If you’re looking for cultural outings, this may not be the best destination, but if you’re looking for sunsets to rival Marseille, hop on the train right now!
🚉 Journey time: 2h40
10. Avignon, the sunny countryside
“Sur le pont d’Avignon, on y danse, on y danse…” Have you got it in your head yet? Well, at least it’ll give you a good reason to visit the fabulous city that hosts the annual Avignon Festival, the very best in theater! As well as this not-to-be-missed event, the richness of this city lies in its surroundings. The Dentelles de Montmirailles, Mont Ventoux, fields of vines as far as the eye can see – it’s all idyllic! As for the train journey time, it’s unbeatable: just 1h22, barely enough time to watch a French comedy! So, are you taking your tickets?
🚉 Journey time: 1h22