UK to the Mediterranean by train
The many dazzling towns scattered along the Mediterranean coast are among the top spots on our list once travel to Europe becomes possible again (read about our favourite spots here). There are a number of ways you can take the train to the Mediterranean from the UK. Here are some of our chosen favourites to ponder as you map out your meanderings for 2021.
Direct Eurostar from London to Marseille
The fastest way is by going direct by Eurostar from London to Marseille, a service that only operates on weekends between the beginning of June and mid-September. This is slow travel for sunseekers, getting you to the shimmering coast in a stylish 6 hrs 28 mins. Unfortunately this service was one of many COVID cancellations but we certainly hope that it will be brought back in summer 2021. Traditionally it leaves London at 07.19 hrs and arrives in Lyon at 13.00 hrs, Avignon at 14.08 hrs and Marseille at 14.47 hrs.
Eurostar to Marseille via Paris or Lille
If this direct service to Marseille isn’t revived for summer 2021, you can take the Eurostar to Lille or Paris in time for lunch, then connect with a direct train to Marseille from either of these cities. Taking the Lille route is easier, as you don’t need to do the 30 mins transfer from Gare du Nord to Gare de Lyon in order to catch the train heading south. In Lille, you just change platforms. It is also quicker to go via Lille, taking just under 7 hrs from London to Marseille, with the route via Paris taking approximately 8 hrs 16 mins - but the opportunity to alight for lunch and wander in Paris means the connection via Paris is our favourite overall for a slow journey down. Either way, you’ll make it to Marseille in time for a pre-dinner pastis by the port.
The slow slow route to the Mediterranean
For truly immersive slow travel to the Mediterranean, we recommend a longer route that not only takes you to France’s Riveria but also into Italy’s. With the majority of cross-border train journeys in continental Europe, you have four days to complete them, allowing you to hop on and off en route. Our two week itinerary from London to Marseille takes in Paris, Marseille, Cassis, Toulon and the stupendous Île de Porquerolles as well as Italy’s Alassio and Ventimiglia on the Ligurian coast. You’ll also explore the mountainous Turin (home to the Slow Food movement), gateway to Gran Paradiso National Park.
Sleeper train from Paris to Nice
Although this magnificent service was stopped a few years back, the revolution in slow travel has made its mark, because in 2020, the French government committed to reviving the dreamy sleeper train from Paris to Nice in December 2021. This is a bit late for any summer travel plans, but definitely worth monitoring. This service has had devotees desperate to travel on it again, and so it will book up quickly. Become a Byway member to get all the latest train news as soon as we get it.
