Picture this: After a long day traversing the picturesque landscapes of Europe by train, you arrive at your destination, weary but excited. As you exit the station, you spot your lodgings for the night – a charming hotel, just steps away. According to seasoned travelers, these railway hotels offer unparalleled convenience and a touch of magic to any European adventure.
Monastery Turned Haven in Venice
Nestled in the heart of Venice, the Hotel Abbazia provides a tranquil retreat for travelers. This former 15th-century monastery, once home to Carmelite monks, is a mere three-minute walk from the Santa Lucia station. One reader shared their experience:
The lovely courtyard is perfect for reading a Donna Leon detective novel while sipping a spritz, waiting for your evening train to Rome. The rooms feature beautiful classical paintings and polished wooden tables, and you can unwind by the wood fire in the lounge where monks once held their Bible readings.
Poetic Charm in the French Ardennes
Le Dormeur du Val, located just five minutes from the main station in Charleville-Mézières, pays homage to the poet Arthur Rimbaud. Guests can enjoy modern designer rooms, a spa, and a restaurant. Copies of the poet’s works adorn the hotel, and the nearby Place Ducal and Rimbaud Museum are well worth a visit.
An Unexpected Delight in Narbonne
For one traveler, a canceled train led to a delightful stay at the Hôtel La Résidence in Narbonne. Just a 10-minute walk from the station, this hotel won them over with friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and a superb breakfast buffet. The unplanned stopover became a highlight of their trip.
Tivoli Gardens at Your Doorstep in Copenhagen
The Profilhotels Copenhagen Plaza, adjacent to the central station, offers a perfect base for exploring the city. Tivoli Gardens is just across the road, and the pedestrian shopping street, Strøget, is a short walk away. While the hotel may be a bit worn, its old-world charm and quirky features, like the historical guest pillar and unique elevator, more than make up for it.
Boutique Beauty Near the Arena in Nîmes
In the southern French city of Nîmes, the Hôtel de l’Amphithéatre is a hidden gem tucked away on a narrow street leading to the old town. This charming 11-room boutique hotel is just steps from the magnificent Roman arena, still used for concerts throughout the summer. Several rooms overlook the Place du Marché, with its palm trees and Crocodile Fountain.
Baroque Elegance and Breakfast Bliss in Münster
For those traveling from Cologne to Hamburg, Hotel Feldmann in Münster offers a delightful overnight stay. Situated in a quiet square near the town center, this hotel occupies an elegant baroque building. Modern furnishings blend seamlessly with traditional wood paneling, and the breakfast is nothing short of phenomenal.
Pretty in Pastel in Poland’s Zielona Góra
The City Boutique Hotel, a 20-minute walk from the station in Zielona Góra, has been beautifully restored on the outside and tastefully modernized within. Friendly staff and fresh, delicious breakfasts await guests. Enjoy a meal on the veranda overlooking the pedestrianized streets lined with pastel baroque buildings, or relax at the Piwniczka Winiarska wine bar set in a nearby vineyard.
Rooftop Views and Modern Comforts in Cologne
Just five minutes from Cologne’s main station, the Urban Loft Hotel boasts a rooftop terrace with stunning 360-degree city views – ideal for sunset watching. Spacious rooms, a ground-floor coffee bar, and an on-site gym make this a comfortable and convenient choice. Don’t miss the nearby Cologne Cathedral, just a 10-minute walk away.
Arnhem’s Parkside Apartments
For a more residential feel, consider the B&B Apartments at De Burgemeester in Arnhem, Netherlands. These spacious, high-ceilinged rooms with kitchenettes are just 10 minutes from the station and across from the beautiful Sonsbeek Park. Nearby, the Stadvilla Sonsbeek offers excellent coffee and meals with a view, while Café Classen hosts live music every Friday and Tuesday.
Galway’s Grande Dame: Hot Whiskeys and History
Once known as the Railway Hotel, The Hardiman has been a landmark on Eyre Square in Galway, Ireland, since 1852. A cozy lobby, welcoming dining room, and lively bar create a warm atmosphere for guests. Spacious rooms and friendly staff add to its charm, especially in winter, when hot whiskeys by the fire are a must.
These reader-recommended railway hotels offer a perfect blend of convenience, character, and comfort for travelers exploring Europe by train. Whether you seek a historic monastery, a poetic escape, or a grande dame hotel, these properties promise to elevate your journey from simple transport to an unforgettable experience.
