Books and trains

Especially on long journeys, reading a book is wonderful. It can take a while for a story to get going and then it’s nice to have the time. Of course, you can also listen to books or podcasts on the way and let the length depend on the duration of the journey.

One-way Rotterdam to Antwerp on Eurocity Direct? Listen to an hour-long episode from the podcast series ‘Expevaring voor Beginners'. From Utrecht to Paris? Then pick an audiobook. If you are a Dutch library member, you can listen to books for free via the 'Online library.'

Taking Paris as an example, Sacha Bronwasser's novel “Luister” (Listen) can be an inspiration. The book is set in Paris, describes different periods and thus provides an insight into the history and lives of the city's inhabitants. Reading a novel can increase the anticipation. But it is also very nice to read such a book on the spot. On a terrace in the Latin Quarter, enjoying “une tasse de café” in the morning sun. While French is spoken around you, the book really comes to life.

And have you read Dan Brown's thriller set in Prague? It's fun to visit the locations in the city that he describes. You can even book a “Dan Brown” tour! Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

Looking for a book set in the city of your choice? Ask your bookseller for advice. Or consult the Volkskrant website where Jet Steinz shows locations with their corresponding books. The latest books are not on there, but you can find plenty of reading tips.
Reading on location (Dutch)

Visit authors on location

Of course, you can also visit the homes or graves of the writers you admire during your city break. We offer you tips:

London

On writerspath, you can find a map of London with houses, memorials and museums of writers such as Dickens, Agatha Christie and Ian Fleming.

Paris

Going to Paris? The city has wonderful libraries you can visit. The Pére Lachaise cemetery has the graves of the likes of Proust, Oscar Wilde and Balzac. The home of Victor Hugo is located on 6 Place des Vosges. You can find even more tips at the website onbookstreet. Are you more into comics? 'Asterix and the Wreath of Caesar' is set mainly in Lutetia, the ancient name for the city of Paris.

_{Grave Oscar Wilde}