While you may dream of sipping coffee in Zagreb's vibrant cafes, getting there by train from London isn't as straightforward.
You'll need to plan a multi-leg journey, but with preparation, you can enjoy a scenic trip through Europe.
This guide covers the best routes and booking tips to help you on your way to Croatia's cities and coastline.
Key Takeaways
- Book tickets in advance for the best deals on routes from London to Croatia via France, Germany, Austria, or Slovenia
- Opt for high-speed trains like Eurostar and TGV Duplex to cover longer distances efficiently between major cities
- Consider overnight trains such as Croatian sleepers or Nightjet for a more relaxed journey with sleeping compartments
- Break up the journey by booking separate legs for more flexibility and potential cost savings
- Enjoy scenic views of the European countryside, with potential sightings of castles along the way
Journey Routes
Train Travel to Croatia from London
Reaching Croatia by train from London typically involves at least a few stops along the way. The most common route takes you from London to Paris via the Eurostar, then connects you to trains heading towards Stuttgart or Zurich. From there, you'll board a Croatian sleeper train for the final leg of your journey.
Alternatively, you can travel from London to Brussels, and then continue on to Munich or Vienna before making your way to Zagreb.
High-speed trains like the TGV Duplex between Paris and Stuttgart can zip along at speeds up to 320 km/h. For a more relaxed experience, overnight options such as the Croatian sleeper train and the Nightjet from Paris/Brussels to Vienna allow you to catch some shut-eye while you travel, making the most of your time.
Whichever route you choose, you'll get to enjoy the scenic countryside as you make your way to Croatia. Just sit back, relax, and let the train take you there. Who knows, you might even spot a castle or two along the way!
Travel Times
Traveling to Croatia by Train
Getting to Croatia by train is a thrilling way to explore Europe, though it does require some patience given the travel times involved.
If you're coming from London, be prepared for a 23-hour journey with at least three train changes along the way. From nearby European cities, the travel time is shorter but still substantial. Trains from Vienna to Zagreb take around 3.5 hours, while the ride from Budapest is roughly 4 hours. Those starting in Ljubljana can reach Zagreb in approximately 2.5 hours by rail. And if you're setting off from Belgrade, plan for a 5-hour train ride to Croatia's capital.
While the train routes may be lengthy, they offer an immersive travel experience. Gaze out the window as the European countryside rolls by, and take advantage of the opportunity to relax, read, or chat with fellow passengers. The time may fly by quicker than you expect.
The payoff is arriving in Croatia, ready to explore all that this stunning country has to offer.
Ticket Costs
Ticket Prices: What You Need to Know
One-way Eurostar tickets from London to Paris typically start around £52 in standard class. For the journey from Paris to Stuttgart on the TGV Duplex, you can often find second-class fares from €39.90 each way.
When it comes to sleeper trains in Croatia, the berths are sold individually. So, you'll need to book accordingly if you want sole occupancy.
An Interrail pass might provide more flexibility, but it may not save you money compared to the cheapest advance-purchase fares. The key is to book your tickets well in advance to secure the best deals.
Think about your route and travel dates carefully. Prices can vary a lot, so planning ahead is the best way to keep costs down. Just remember – the earlier you book, the better the price tends to be.
Booking Methods
Booking Your Train Journey to Croatia
Ready to book your train trip to Croatia? You've got a few options to secure your travel plans.
Booking the full journey from London to Zagreb through a single platform like www.thetrainline.com can streamline the process. But be mindful that booking windows vary: Eurostar tickets are available up to 6 months in advance, while sleeper train tickets can be booked up to 90 days ahead.
Alternatively, you can book London to Zurich and Zurich to Zagreb separately. You can manage your Eurostar booking and seat selection directly on their website. Keep in mind that booking by phone may incur additional fees.
No matter which method you choose, securing your tickets early helps ensure a smooth journey to your Croatian adventure. With a bit of planning, you'll be on your way in no time.
Train Amenities
From cozy sleeper compartments to well-stocked dining cars, the trains along your route to Croatia offer a range of on-board amenities for a comfortable journey. Eurostar trains provide power sockets and free WiFi, allowing you to stay connected and entertained. Climb aboard the upper deck of TGV Duplex trains for panoramic views as you take in the scenery.
As you continue towards Zagreb, the Croatian sleeper train offers 1, 2, or 3-bed compartments, as well as 4 to 6-berth couchettes, so you can rest easy. Want privacy? The Nightjet sleeper from Paris/Brussels to Vienna has private compartments or couchettes to choose from.
| Eurostar | TGV Duplex | Croatian Sleeper | Nightjet Sleeper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power sockets | Power sockets | 1, 2, 3-bed compartments | 1, 2, 3-berth compartments |
| Free WiFi | Cafe-bar | 4, 6-berth couchettes | Couchettes |
| Bar car | Upper deck seating |
And when hunger strikes, no need to worry. The Austrian restaurant cars on EuroCity trains to Zagreb have you covered, so you can enjoy a delicious meal as you approach your destination.
Onward Connections
Onward Connections
Expanding Your Journey from Paris and Brussels to Croatia
Once you've arrived in the bustling cities of Paris or Brussels, you're in an ideal position to continue your travels towards your final destination in Croatia. Let's explore your options for making seamless connections.
From Paris, you can hop on trains to Munich starting around €40. Or, venture further east to Zurich from just €29. Brussels, on the other hand, offers connections to Munich from approximately €18 and even to Vienna.
When booking your continued journey, keep these practical tips in mind:
- Reserve tickets to cities like Zagreb as separate legs from your initial trip. This gives you more flexibility and control over your itinerary.
- Opt for high-speed trains – they'll help you cover longer distances efficiently, saving you time and energy.
- Book in advance for lower fares and increased flexibility. Planning ahead can unlock great deals and ensure availability on your preferred routes.
With these strategies in your back pocket, you'll be well on your way to an effortless and cost-effective continuation of your European adventure. Just sit back, relax, and let the train take you there.
