Amsterdam
Eurostar's long-awaited direct service from London to Amsterdam kicks off today (April 4), meaning the Dutch gem has never been easier to visit. There is a small catch, however – while it is non-stop on the outbound leg, passengers must change trains on the way back to Blighty.
Travel time: 3 hours 41 mins
Why go?
"Canals lined with decorative gabled houses; cosy wood-panelled cafés, flowers bursting from buckets on street corners, boats gently gliding on the waterways, flocks of cyclists, and a famously easy-going populace all help create Amsterdam’s allure," says Rodney Bolt, our expert. "But while it may be one of Europe’s most visually and temperamentally charming cities, it is also one of the most culturally rich. Its artistic abundance – painting, architecture and photography; opera, music, dance and a thriving contemporary arts scene – make an alchemical mix that only deepens the appeal. With a direct rail connection at last in place, now is the time to explore Amsterdam in depth – you may find it even rivals Paris."