The Best Flight-Free Travel from the UK to Europe

As the allure of sustainable travel attracts a growing number of adventurers each year, flight-free journeys from the UK to Europe are rising in popularity. With the continent just a train, boat or bus journey away, the UK has access to a plethora of appealing European destinations accessible without taking a flight.

So, if this year you’re aiming to lead a more sustainable lifestyle, planning a trip to Europe by other means of transportation not only adds a little more adventure to your journey but also is less of a hit on the environment.

Take the Train to Paris

Perhaps you’ve spent the day sightseeing in the Capital, after having travelled down to London Kings Cross Station. Prolong the fun by taking a short walk to St Pancras International, where you can catch the Eurostar to Paris in just over 2 hours. Not only do you avoid the early arrival time at the airport and security queues, but when you reach the City of Love, you are in the centre of the city.

Sit back and relax as you enjoy the comfort of the spacious carriage, particularly favourable when comparing it to a cramped seat on a budget flight. From here you can explore the wonders that Paris has to offer, sampling the trending hot chocolate at Café de Flore or strolling the streets of iconic Montmartre.

Hop on a Ferry to France

Many of us have journeyed the English Channel from Dover to Calais, but have you explored the beauty of what Northern France has to offer? The northwestern region of Brittany boasts stunning coastal landscapes, towns rich in history and small islands reachable by boat. Spend a summer’s evening grazing on the finest local produce such as wines, oysters and crêpes.

Make Your Way to The Netherlands

Reach the Dutch cities of Amsterdam and Rotterdam by train in a matter of hours from London. A cruise on Amsterdam’s canals allows you to truly appreciate the unique architecture of old merchant houses crafted in the Dutch Golden Age. Or, delve into the many museums spread around the city. The Van Gogh Museum is home to the world’s largest collection of the artist’s work, giving visitors an immersive guide to the painter’s life.

Sail to Scandinavia

A longer yet worthwhile journey, sailing from the UK to Scandinavian territory provides adventurers with striking landscapes and epic natural beauty. If the spectacular aurora borealis isn’t enough to attract you to the unique region, the awe-inspiring Norwegian fjords will be sure to bring a sense of magic to your trip.

Although it might take a little more planning, travelling flight-free can help to reduce your carbon footprint whilst also encouraging you to visit places you might not have considered before.

*Collaborative post