Train From Barcelona to Zurich: A 10-Day Itinerary Through Europe

I love a good road trip, but sometimes, you want to sit back and relax while someone else takes the wheel. This is especially true in Europe; its narrow roads and tiny cars can kill the vacation vibe. If you’re a road-trip junkie who wants a break from dealing with traffic and tricky navigation systems, taking a train from Barcelona to Zurich is the answer. The European rail system is definitely superior to most other countries and unbelievably scenic, as well. So, come along as my Adventure Partner for Life and I explore the glorious Riviera and Alps by train.

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10-Day Itinerary by Train From Barcelona to Zurich

If you’re taking notes, start here.

You don’t have to copy my outline verbatim, but if it helps you figure out your own schedule, I’ve accomplished my goal. Feel free to use this as the foundation for your own itinerary if you’re taking the train from Barcelona to Zurich.

Are you ready? Let’s go!

Fly to Barcelona, Spain. Day trip to Andorra.
Rail from Barcelona to Avignon, France. Spend night.
Rail from Avignon to Monte Carlo, Monaco. Stay for the afternoon.
Rail from Monte Carlo to Genoa, Italy. Explore for a day.
Rail from Genoa to Lugano, Switzerland and wander for a day.
Rail from Lugano to Zurich, Switzerland and stay for the afternoon.
Depart from Zurich and fly home.

PLANNING A TRIP TO EUROPE SOON?

Below are some of the best tours, hotels, and more to kickstart your plans!

Popular Tours & Activities in Europe:

Top Places to Stay in Europe:

Lamaro Hotel in Barcelona, Spain
Mercure Pont d’Avignon Centre in Avignon, France
Hotel Port Palace in Monte Carlo, Monaco

You Might Also Like These Global Debauchery Posts:

Bienvenidos a Barcelona!

This is optional, depending on your departure location, but we had a layover in Frankfurt, Germany before we arrived at our official first stop in Spain. Frankfurt is a super easy airport to navigate, and customs was a breeze.

It obviously depends on your origin airport whether you’ll have a layover or not, but either way, get to Barcelona, and you’re good.

Getting Around Barcelona

Their efficient bus and metro rail systems make getting around Barcelona easy. You can take a train, bus, or taxi from the airport. I’d recommend the train because it’s the fastest and cheapest. Two birds with one stone, am I right?

Metro: El Prat Aeroport Train Station to Barcelona Train Station ($2 – $3 USD)
Bus: Airport Terminal B to Pl. Catalunya – Fontanella ($1 – $6 USD)
Taxi: Airport to Gothic Quarter ($30 – $40 USD)

Where To Stay in Barcelona

We stayed at the Lamaro Hotel in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. I highly recommend this hotel for its proximity to the beaches, museums, shopping, and literally everything else. And any hotel with a pool gets my seal of approval.

This image shows the interior of a stylish, modern café or lounge with soft lighting and elegant decor. Round tables with velvet chairs are arranged across a spacious, light wood floor, and globe pendant lights hang above a sleek bar counter, creating a relaxed and upscale atmosphere.

This image shows a modern, luxurious bathroom with a sleek freestanding white bathtub positioned beside a frosted glass window. Opposite the tub is a double-sink vanity with a large mirror, neatly arranged towels, and bathrobes on open shelving, all in a clean, minimalist design with soft lighting.

This image shows a classic European-style corner building with a warm yellow façade and rows of wrought iron balconies on each floor. Located on a sunny plaza with trees and outdoor café seating, the building has a stylish ground-level entrance labeled "Iberostar," suggesting it is a hotel.

This image captures a stunning rooftop view of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, with the Barcelona Cathedral prominently featured in the center. The foreground shows a stylish rooftop terrace with white tables and chairs, offering a perfect vantage point over the historic cityscape under a clear blue sky.

This image shows a bright and elegant hotel room featuring a large bed with a tufted headboard, soft white bedding, and turquoise accent pillows. The room is furnished with classic wooden chairs, a writing desk, and a small breakfast setup, all bathed in natural light from tall windows with flowing teal curtains.

PHOTO CREDITS: LAMARO HOTEL VIA HOTELS.COM

Sightseeing in Barcelona

We took a morning stroll around the Barcelona Cathedral to catch some sites in the immediate area, such as Plaça del Rei and the Sant Felip Neri church. We stopped to marvel at a woman singing opera in an alleyway behind the cathedral. It was truly breathtaking.

Don’t skip sampling all the delicious street food in Barcelona while exploring. You will regret it! In the mood for drinks? Visit these rooftop bars with views for days in between all the beautiful Barcelona sites.

Pro tip: Do the hop-on/hop-off buses. It provides transportation and extra coupons for all your sights for sometimes up to 72 hours of touring.

As for the places you need to see, there are way too many if you’re only here for a day or two but I’ll do my best. Again, this list isn’t rock solid but it will get you started.

• Basilica de la Sagrada Familia	• Museu Picasso
• Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar	• Plaça Del Rei
• Casa Batlló	• Poblenou Cemetery
• Park Güell	• Sant Antoni
• Palau de la Música Catalana	• The Roman Temple of Augustus
• Mercat de la Boqueria	• Mirador de Colom

This image shows the colorful façade of Casa Batlló in Barcelona, featuring wavy balconies and a mosaic of shimmering tiles in blues, greens, and purples. The building, designed by Antoni Gaudí, has a whimsical, organic feel with bone-like shapes and a dragon-scale roof.

This image shows a close-up of two adjoining mosaic tile patterns, one side featuring geometric floral shapes in bright oranges, greens, blues, and blacks, and the other side showcasing intricate yellow, red, and blue designs with an ornate, traditional feel. The contrasting styles highlight the blend of Moorish and Catalan influences often seen in Spanish architecture.

This image shows a vibrant indoor market scene at Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria in Barcelona, with colorful produce stalls lining both sides of a walkway. Shoppers browse fresh fruits and vegetables under a high, decorative iron and glass roof featuring the city’s coat of arms.

This image shows the Sagrada Família basilica in Barcelona, Spain, with its iconic spires and intricate stonework rising against a vivid blue sky. The detailed façade features sculptural elements depicting biblical scenes, highlighting Antoni Gaudí’s unique architectural style.

PHOTO CREDIT: DIMITRY B, UNSPLASH; DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

Day Trip To Andorra

Andorra is a relatively new country and it actually has two princes—one Spanish and one French; they take turns ruling each year. Right now, the Andorran prince is none other than the French President Macron.

The country is famous for a couple of things, namely being tax-free, so shop til you drop!

We made three stops in Andorra. Sadly, I can’t remember the names of the towns, but I do remember that we stopped in the capital, Andorra la Vella. We also stopped in a town that reminded me of the “Sound of Music.” Lots of mountains, rolling hills, and quaint homes.

If shopping isn’t your idea of fun, there are several other things to do in Andorra, including experiencing Andorra nightlife and sampling local cuisine at some recommended Andorra restaurants.

Moving on to Avignon

While traveling by train from Barcelona to Zurich, you better get used to waking up at the crack of dawn. This leg is the longest train ride of the trip at three and a half hours, plus a half hour for the second leg.

Once in Avignon, we walked from the train station to our hotel, which was the length of the entire town. It’s a charming town with a little square and a double-decker carousel in the middle. The cafes lining the square periodically mist customers under canopies. So refreshing in the summer heat!

Getting Around Avignon

Walking: All of Avignon’s major sights are easily accessible by foot. The tourist office offers free maps marked with four easy walking routes.

Car: Driving is not recommended, but if you want to, go for it. The numerous pedestrian areas make driving challenging, and car theft is common. If you insist even after learning this, take note of these 24-hour parking areas:

Parking des Halles, Place Pie
Parking Jean Jaurès, Cours Jean Jaurès
Parking de l`Oratoire, Remparts de l`Oulle
Parking des Gares, 7 Avenue Montclar
Parking Catto, 16 Boulevard St Roch
Parking St-Charles, Avenue du Blanchissage, beneath the Grand Hotel

Taxi: Avignon taxis have a reputation for overcharging. If the taxi displays an illuminated letter “D” on the meter, it indicates you’re being charged a higher night-time tariff (7 pm – 7 am).

Phone: (+33) 4 90 8220 20

Where To Stay in Avignon

We stayed at the Hôtel Mercure Pont d’Avignon Centre, and I can say from experience that it’s a true tourist hotel (it’s even labeled as one on Google). If you want that European castle vibe, this is the spot.

If this place isn’t your vibe or in your budget, I have several more Avignon hotel recommendations for ya!

This image shows a cozy and stylish outdoor dining terrace with wooden flooring, wicker chairs, and greenery-draped pergolas. Set against the backdrop of a historic stone wall and sunlit buildings, the space offers a relaxed Mediterranean ambiance ideal for al fresco meals.

This image shows a charming garden lounge area with wicker chairs arranged around a small blue table on a lush artificial grass lawn. Surrounded by flowering trees and thick greenery, the space feels private and relaxed, perfect for outdoor conversation in a cozy urban oasis.

This image shows a stylish, warmly lit restaurant with a glass roof and walls, creating a cozy indoor-outdoor ambiance. Wooden tables are set with wine glasses and placemats, while eclectic pendant lighting and a backlit wall of wine bottles enhance the inviting, modern-rustic atmosphere.

This image shows a modern and cozy hotel room with a wooden accent wall framing a double bed, dressed in crisp white linens and teal pillows. A small private balcony with seating is visible through a glass door, allowing natural light to brighten the warm-toned interior.

PHOTO CREDITS: MERCURE PONT D’AVIGNON CENTRE VIA HOTELS.COM

Sightseeing in Avignon

We had a blast checking out the sights in this city. In addition to these Avignon activities, you can tour Avignon vineyards and sample French cuisine at the best Avignon restaurants.

Here are some Avignon highlights that you can add to your list:

• Palais des Papes	• Cathédrale Notre-Dame-des-Doms
• Basilique Saint-Pierre d’Avignon	• Pont Saint-Bénézet
• Le Pont du Gard

This image features the Pont du Gard, a towering ancient Roman aqueduct bridge in southern France, built from golden limestone and spanning a rocky riverbed. The structure’s multiple tiers of large stone arches stand against a deep blue sky, showcasing impressive Roman engineering in a natural landscape.

This image shows the intricate façade of the Barcelona Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, viewed from a low angle under a clear blue sky. Gothic architectural details frame arched stained glass windows, and two colorful coats of arms are embedded on either side of the central entrance.

This image captures a peaceful garden with colorful flowers and trimmed shrubs surrounding a row of weathered stone archways, likely remnants of a historic structure. Behind the arches, tall plane trees provide dappled shade, and storefronts with awnings labeled "Brasserie" and "Théâtre" hint at a charming European town setting.

This image shows the front façade of the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) in Avignon, France, featuring two tall, pointed towers with narrow windows and Gothic detailing. The fortress-like limestone structure is a prominent example of medieval architecture under a clear blue sky.

PHOTO CREDIT: DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

From Avignon To Monaco

After our fun—albeit brief—adventure, Jeff and I headed to the Avignon train station. This is the only train station I know that literally has two baby castle turrets at the entrance of it.

I slept on the train, and when I woke up, I noticed a distinct change in landscape. We hopped off in Nice for our connection to Monte Carlo.

Getting Around Monaco

Walking: Walking is the best way to explore Monaco. Numerous public lifts and escalators allow you to reach each district within minutes. It takes just 45 minutes to cross Monaco from east to west on foot.

Bus: The Monaco Bus Company (CAM) allows you to travel around the Principality between 7 am and 9:30 pm. An evening bus service runs from 9:20 pm to 12:20 am every day for night owls.

Single tickets are available, along with passes valid for multiple journeys. They can be purchased aboard buses, from ticket machines, and on the CAM website.

Taxi: Taxis here are super expensive, so I do not recommend this option. However, Monaco also has solar-powered water taxis, a pleasant way to travel from Monaco-Ville to the Casino and back between 8 am and 8 pm daily.

Here are the water taxi prices:

Single or return journey: €2.00
One day pass (24 hours): €5.50
Two day pass (48 hours): €8.50
Three day pass (72 hours): €11.50
Four day pass (96 hours): €13.50
Children under five: Free

Bike: MonaBike is the Principality of Monaco’s own automated electric bicycle share, run by the Prince’s Government and the bus company CAM. Here’s how it works:

Choose your package on the monabike.mc website or directly in the PBSC app.
Collect a bike by holding your contactless CAM card by the dock or using your smartphone to scan the QR code on the bike via the app.
You can return your bike to a free dock at any station. The green light on the dock confirms that your journey has been completed. Within a few minutes, you’ll receive an email confirming that your bike has been returned.

Where To Stay in Monaco

I like to get a little fancy sometimes, and Monaco is THE quintessential place to do just that. In my opinion, Monaco is one of the most romantic destinations in Europe for couples. If you’re traveling with your significant other, this is the perfect place to splurge.

We stayed at the Hotel Port Palace, which is situated on a marina next to the Monaco Yacht Club. It’s right on the water, which is amazing, but it’s like it was built for luxury in the 1970s and never got an upgrade. Even so, it’s a great place to stay for a night or two.

This image shows a vibrant and inviting breakfast buffet spread across a marble-topped counter in a stylish hotel dining area. The buffet includes an assortment of pastries, fresh fruits, cheeses, cold cuts, and baked goods, all beautifully arranged under warm lighting in a retro-modern setting.

This image shows a stylish outdoor terrace restaurant with white tables and blue cushioned chairs set under a canopy. The setting overlooks a scenic hillside city and marina, with lush greenery and buildings dotting the landscape in the background, creating a fresh and elegant dining atmosphere.

This image shows a bright and cheerful hotel suite decorated with bold pops of color, including a red sofa, orange bed throw, and golden-orange curtains. Large windows let in natural light, while fresh flowers and modern artwork add a welcoming, vibrant touch to the cozy space.

This image shows a modern, spacious hotel suite with a separate bedroom and living area, decorated in soft neutral tones with accents of turquoise and purple. The room includes a large bed, a cozy sofa, a work desk, and armchairs by a bright window, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere.

This image shows a luxurious marina packed with white superyachts docked in sparkling blue waters, likely in Monaco. In the background, pastel buildings and lush green hills rise toward the horizon under a clear, sunny sky, creating an opulent Mediterranean coastal scene.

PHOTO CREDITS: HOTEL PORT PALACE VIA HOTELS.COM

Sightseeing in Monte Carlo

When touring Monte Carlo, these are some spots you don’t want to miss:

• Musée Océanographique	• The Monte Carlo Casino
• Chapelle de la Visitation

This image shows the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco perched dramatically on a cliffside overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The grand stone building features arched windows and classical detailing, with lush greenery and the coastline of the French Riviera extending into the distance under a clear blue sky.

This image shows the ornate façade of the Monte Carlo Casino in Monaco, framed by palm trees and lush gardens. In front, a mirrored sculpture reflects the sky and building, set above a cascading fountain that leads the eye toward the iconic Beaux-Arts architecture.

This image shows the Église Sainte-Dévote in Monaco, a small yet elegant church with warm yellow and white exterior walls, classical columns, and a triangular pediment topped by a cross. The building is set at a street corner with a crosswalk and a few people nearby, lit by late afternoon sunlight.

PHOTO CREDIT: DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM; AIMELAIME-COMMONSWIKI, CC BY-SA 4.0

Headed To Genoa

Hopping the train to Genoa was easy, but the actual train ride was not. It wasn’t our longest trip, but it felt like it. It was super packed towards the end, and I was relieved when we finally got off.

My idea for this stop was to experience the Genoa’s beautiful beaches along the Italian Riviera. You’ll also want to stop off in Portofino and Boccadasse or another quick day trip from Genoa if you can manage it.

Getting Around Genoa

If you’re railing all the way, the train lets you off at the Genoa Principe Station. A comprehensive public transportation network runs through the city, including main rail lines (operated by Trenitalia) as well as buses, cable cars, public elevators, one water-bus line, and a short underground.

Cost: Tickets must be purchased before boarding (usually at newsstands) and cost about €2.50 for unlimited bus rides and/or one train/subway ride for 100 minutes. There’s also a 24-hour ticket (€5.00 for one person and €9.50 for four people traveling together).

Where To Stay in Genoa

If you’re looking for convenience, the Grand Hotel Savoia is nice, and it’s located right across the street from the train station.

What could be more easy than that? And they gave us complimentary ice cream bars. I mean, that’s the most Italian arrival gift ever!

This image shows a vibrant and elegant buffet area decorated in retro-inspired turquoise and coral tones. The setup features a glass table filled with assorted pies and cakes, warmers lined up against a tiled backdrop, and a large floral centerpiece, all under stylish pendant lights and tassel-trimmed chandeliers.

This image shows a richly decorated hotel room with classic European flair, featuring a tufted yellow headboard, elegant green drapes, and a vintage-style map mural of Genoa above the bed. A green velvet chaise lounge and a trunk-style bench add to the old-world charm, while a window offers a scenic city view at sunset.

This image shows a tranquil spa treatment room with a massage table covered in a white sheet, softly illuminated by warm ambient lighting and glowing vertical LED accents. The space includes modern seating, sheer curtains for privacy, and neatly arranged skincare products, creating a calming and luxurious atmosphere.

This image shows a charming terrace café with ornate black wrought iron tables and chairs, each topped with a small potted flower arrangement. Set against a backdrop of palm trees, historic buildings, and a bright blue sky with scattered clouds, the scene exudes classic European elegance and relaxed outdoor ambiance.

This image shows a vibrant and elegant hotel suite with Asian-inspired decor, featuring bold red-orange armchairs and a matching sofa around a low tea table set with refreshments. Floral curtains and golden folding screens with painted branches frame a window offering a scenic city view, adding to the room’s warm and luxurious ambiance.

PHOTO CREDITS: GRAND HOTEL SAVOIA VIA HOTELS.COM

Sightseeing in Genoa

Genoa is a port city, so be prepared to see lots of homelessness, prostitution, and almost no other tourists. I’m not talking smack about Genoa, but I am trying to manage expectations.

It was a complete 180 from Monte Carlo. I love off-the-beaten-path places, but this was slightly beyond.

Anyway, we eventually found the actual sights, which were in better areas.

• Piazza de Ferrari	• Porta Soprana and Casa di Colombo
• Cathedral of San Lorenzo	• Via Garibaldi
• Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi a Nervi

This image showcases the grand fountain in Piazza De Ferrari, the central square of Genoa, Italy. Water jets arc outward from the circular basin, surrounded by elegant historic buildings in shades of pink and cream under a clear blue sky.

This image features a detailed marble lion sculpture sitting at the entrance of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo in Genoa, Italy. The background showcases the church's striking black-and-white striped columns and intricately patterned façade, typical of Ligurian Gothic architecture.

This image captures a scenic coastal walkway in Genoa, Italy, featuring a red brick path with turquoise railings curving along rocky cliffs beside the Mediterranean Sea. On the left, pastel buildings and palm trees add a warm, inviting touch under a vivid blue sky with scattered clouds.

This image shows the rustic stone and brick façade of the Casa di Cristoforo Colombo (Christopher Columbus' House) in Genoa, Italy. Two flags — the Italian tricolor and the Genoese flag — flank the front, while ivy drapes over the upper part of the building and a marble plaque is mounted above the windows.

PHOTO CREDIT: DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM; PIERGIULIO90, CC BY-SA 4.0

Let’s Go To Lugano

To get to Lugano from Genoa, you’ll want to hop on a train that connects through Milan, which, for the record, is a pretty large train station.

Remember that when crossing the border, Switzerland is not part of the EU nor the Schengen Agreement, so prepare for a passport check. After this, you’ll disembark at the train station in Lugano.

Getting Around Lugano

Driving is definitely NOT recommended here.

Most parts of Lugano can be reached on foot or by bus. The train station is also close to the city center.

After arrival, you can walk down in about five minutes or take a one-minute funicular ride. The center itself is small enough to be explored on foot.

Some hotels may provide you with a Ticino Ticket, offering free or discounted transportation.

Where To Stay in Lugano

We stayed at the Luganodante Hotel and were happy to find that the service was significantly better than that we’d received at other hotels.

Free minibar, free breakfast buffet, free public transportation tickets. I mean, come on.

This image shows a chic, modern hotel bar with a bold blue and orange color scheme. The space features a sleek bar lined with red stools, circular black tables and stools, and a backlit wall of greenery and spirits, complemented by decorative shelving and a wine fridge for a vibrant, upscale atmosphere.

This image shows a stylish, contemporary restroom with bold black and teal tiled walls, illuminated by modern pendant lighting. A sleek vanity with dual round sinks, a large mirror, and decorative orchids leads into a warmly lit adjoining room where a neon sign adds a playful touch, reading "we still hope. Do you?"

This image shows the entrance of the LUGANODANTE hotel, featuring a modern stone façade with large windows revealing lush indoor greenery. The hotel's name is prominently displayed in bright white lettering alongside a red neon punctuation mark, with soft lighting and steps leading to the stylish glass door.

This image shows a modern and cozy hotel room with a minimalist design, featuring a large bed with a teal upholstered base and headboard, accented by soft backlighting and pendant lights. A small sitting area with velvet chairs is positioned near a window, and a sleek desk with books adds a touch of comfort and function.

PHOTO CREDITS: LUGANODANTE HOTEL VIA HOTELS.COM

Sightseeing in Lugano

Lugano is the stereotypical Swiss city but with its own charm. The houses are all sorts of bright pastels with flowers everywhere, lots of cobblestones streets, and beautiful little churches.

There were intricate fountains everywhere where people stopped and drank water directly from the spouts. It’s a pedestrian town, so you’ll be walking… a lot.

Here are a few spots to check out during your time in Lugano:

• Cattedrale di San Lorenzo	• Monte San Salvatore
• Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angioli

This image captures a scenic view of Lake Lugano in Switzerland, with a docked boat flying the Swiss flag in the foreground and hillside homes dotting the lush mountains beyond. The calm green-blue water and surrounding peaks are set against a bright sky with scattered clouds, creating a peaceful lakeside atmosphere.

This image captures a panoramic view of Lake Lugano from a high vantage point, with lush green hills in the foreground and the deep blue lake winding between mountainous terrain. The city of Lugano spreads along the shoreline on the right, with boats dotting the water and a clear sky overhead enhancing the vibrant landscape.

This image shows the garden of the Museo d’Arte della Svizzera Italiana (MASI) in Lugano, Switzerland, featuring manicured lawns, a classical-style building with a dome, and modern sculptures including a green female figure and a reflective abstract installation. The lush greenery and backdrop of forested mountains enhance the serene outdoor art setting.

PHOTO CREDIT: DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

Off To Zurich

Zurich was the last stop on this European adventure. The easiest way to get to the train station is via the Lugano funicular. The train ride from Lugano to Zurich is exceptionally gorgeous so prepare your eyeballs for some surreal scenery. It also takes you through the longest tunnel in Switzerland.

We spent 24 hours in Zurich, but as it’s the end of this itinerary, you should spend as much time as you want here. I also suggest you go on a short side excursion to Liechtenstein – easily done in one day from Zurich!

Getting Around Zurich

The best way to get around Zurich neighborhoods is on foot or by bike. I won’t sit here and tell you you can’t take taxis or other transportation, but I’ll always recommend walking or biking first.

Walking: Many Zurich attractions are close to one another, so walking is a great way to get around. This is also the best way to maneuver the cobblestone streets and alleys.

Bike: Zurich offers free bike rentals daily. To borrow a bike, you’ll need to show some form of ID and provide a refundable deposit of 20 francs (about $21 USD). Loaner bikes can be found year-round outside Hauptbahnhof, the main train station in Zurich.

Public Transit: Zurich Public Transport (VBZ) employs a network of trams, trains, buses, cable cars and boats to help travelers traverse Zurich and its suburbs.

The trams, in particular, are a good way to get around. Before you hop aboard, buy your ticket at a VBZ ticket office or an automatic ticket machine. Consider purchasing a Zurich card to save money.

Single second-class adult ticket: 2.70 francs ($3 USD)
Single second-class child ticket: 2.30 francs ($2.50 USD)
Day passes start at 5.40 francs ($6 USD) per adult

Where To Stay in Zurich

We stayed at 25Hours Hotel Langstrasse, a 4-star boutique hotel with uniquely designed rooms, a sauna, and a fitness center. It’s a 10-minute drive to the Swiss National Museum and Bahnhofstrasse.

This image shows a trendy, colorful bar with a mosaic tile mural wall featuring a pixelated abstract design in vibrant hues. The bar counter is illuminated with warm pendant lighting, surrounded by wooden stools and eclectic décor, creating a lively and artistic atmosphere.

This image shows a boutique-style gym or wellness area, designed with a warm, modern aesthetic. There's a workout bench with a foam roller and a green resistance band on top, medicine balls and exercise balls on the floor, and a set of hand weights neatly organized on a wooden rack. The space features wood paneling, an orange accent wall, and a hallway leading to other wellness or fitness rooms, creating a cozy yet functional atmosphere.

This image shows a trendy and eclectic restaurant interior with a playful and modern design. The space features a mix of pendant lights in various shapes and colors hanging from a reflective ceiling, cozy booths, and wooden tables set for dining. In the foreground, utensil holders and a cheeky sign that reads "Hello, naughty nomad." add a touch of whimsy. The ambiance is creative and vibrant, appealing to a young and adventurous crowd.

This image features a stylish, contemporary hotel room with a Scandinavian-inspired design. The bed is set on a raised wooden platform with a wooden headboard, accented by hanging bedside lamps. The room is softly lit with natural light streaming through large windows, framed by blue and turquoise curtains. The minimalist decor, cozy bedding, and bright color palette create a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing stay.

PHOTO CREDITS: 25 HOURS HOTEL LANGSTRASSE VIA HOTELS.COM

Sightseeing in Zurich and Liechtenstein

This is where you’ll want to get creative. There’s so much to see so I’ve narrowed it down for you to make life a little easier.

• Old Town Zurich	• Heidiland
• Lichtenstein Castle	• Rapperswil Rose Gardens

This image shows a Gothic-style stained glass window with a pointed arch and intricate patterns. The window features two tall vertical panels with repeating fan motifs in red, white, and blue, topped by a heart-shaped design filled with red glass and white floral accents.

This image shows a charming cobblestone street in Zurich’s Old Town, lined with colorful historic buildings featuring shuttered windows and sloped rooftops. The vibrant facades in shades of orange, pink, yellow, and green contrast beautifully with the deep blue sky above.

This image shows Lichtenstein Castle in Germany, a fairytale-like structure perched on a cliff edge and accessed by a wooden drawbridge. The castle features a round tower, pointed turrets, and Gothic-style stonework, framed by lush green trees under a clear blue sky.

This image features a vibrant garden filled with blooming red, yellow, pink, and white roses in the foreground, set beneath terraced vineyards climbing up a stone wall. In the background, a pointed tower with a steep roof peeks through the trees under a softly clouded sky, evoking a peaceful countryside scene.

PHOTO CREDIT: DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM; ETZELOUS, CC BY-SA 4.0

10 Days in Europe and An Eternity of Memories

If you’ve dreamed of exploring Europe without the hassle of renting a car, this rail journey from Barcelona to Zurich proves it’s not only possible—it’s spectacular. Traveling by train lets you soak in everything from Mediterranean coastlines to alpine lakes, all while someone else does the driving.

If I haven’t yet convinced you to recreate this itinerary for yourself, here’s some more inspiration from Global Debauchery: discover Zurich’s hidden gems, uncover how to feel like a local in Lugano, or sip your way through Lugano’s unique bars. There are some fun off-beat adventures awaiting you in Barcelona and epic nightlife in Monaco you should experience!

For more European travel ideas, check out these must-visit European hidden gems and the most romantic destinations in Europe.

Train From Barcelona to Zurich: A 10-Day Itinerary Through Europe

10-Day Itinerary by Train From Barcelona to Zurich