A first Europe journey: capitals, trains and honest distances

International Travel

A first Europe journey: capitals, trains and honest distances

Europe rewards travellers who leave empty afternoons in the itinerary.

A first journey is often Paris–Switzerland, Italy, or a shorter alpine–city mix. The mistake is treating the map like a stamp album. Trains are part of the pleasure if the hops are short; they become the holiday if they are not.

Schengen visas are filed with hotels, funds and a day-by-day stay that must match what you actually booked. No agency can promise a stamp. A complete, consistent file is the work.

Shoulder seasons (late spring, early autumn) are often kinder on queues and weather, with the usual caveat that mountains and cities do not share one forecast.