Travel along the Hanseatic cities by train
In Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands
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Historic Hanseatic cities: discover Europe's medieval trading centres
The Hanseatic cities were once major trading centres that worked together in the Hanseatic League, an economic and defensive alliance formed more than 800 years ago. The area stretched from the Baltic Sea to the North Sea and included cities in what is now Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Poland and even parts of Scandinavia and the Baltic States. These cities are renowned for their rich history, beautiful architecture and cultural heritage. Discover the historic charm and uniqueness of each Hanseatic city as you travel.
Plan your train vacation from the Netherlands
Route | Travel time | Change trains | Header | Header |
---|---|---|---|---|
Deventer - Ghent | 4h18m | 2 | Content | Content |
Ghent - Cologne | 2h28m | 1 | Content | Content |
Cologne - Hamburg | 3h58m | 0 | Content | Content |
Hamburg - Lübeck | 0h46m | 0 | Content | Content |
Lübeck - Bremen | 2h04m | 1 | Content | Content |
Bremen - Zwolle | 3h20m | 2 | Content | Content |
Deventer
Ghent
Cologne
Hamburg
Hamburg is sometimes called 'little Berlin' because of its hip and vibrant character. Much like the German capital, Hamburg has an industrial past, but is also full of hip hotspots, museums and beautiful sights. Cycle along the banks of the River Elbe, see huge warehouses and visit hip cafes in the revitalised old harbour district, Hafencity. Or discover colourful street art, hip concept stores and unique cafés in the artsy St. Pauli district. By night, you can find lively bars and nightclubs. Explore the trendy and relaxed Schanzenviertel. Both day and night, this area is bustling with inviting terraces, good food and drink. Take the train to Hamburg for a quick and comfortable journey.
Lübeck
Bremen
Zwolle
Tips for cheaper international train tickets
Want to discover Central Europe's vibrant and historic cities on an adventurous train journey? Book your tickets quickly and easily with NS International. All train tickets can be booked separately, making it easy to create your own itinerary.
- Book as early as possible, you will then have the best chance of getting the cheap tickets.
- Travelling in the evening is often cheaper.
- Book from your local train station.
Learn more about cheap train tickets
Interrail: all your European train tickets in 1 pass
The Interrail Pass is a train ticket that allows you to travel on almost all trains in Europe. It gives you access to 40 rail and ferry companies in 33 countries.
More about Interrail Passes
Discover our other great train journeys around Europe
Looking for an unforgettable trip to other historic cities? Then check out our best of Central Europe, Southern Europe or Northern Europe.
Train trip southern Europe
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Train trip central Europe
Discover the vibrant and historic cities of Central Europe. Travel through Austria, Hungary and Slovakia by train.
Train trip northern Europe
Embark on an unforgettable train journey past Düsseldorf, Hamburg, Aarhus, Copenhagen and Bremen. We recommend the best hotspots for each stop.