Planning a trip across several countries is mostly about sequencing. Which city first, which train to book early, how many nights per stop, and whether to fly or rail between them.

Here are the planning guides for a first trip to Europe, rail itineraries, and seasonal ideas such as Christmas markets.

Start by picking the two or three places you cannot skip, then build backwards. Book the long-distance trains first, then lodging, then the timed tickets.

Take the rail pass question seriously. Point-to-point tickets are often cheaper than a pass if you book early.

Part of Europe Destinations & Itineraries guides. Browse the other topics there to keep planning.