February 13th 2025.
A new train journey has been announced that will connect seven European cities, and it's causing quite a stir among UK travelers. The European Sleeper service will run from Brussels to Venice, with stops along the way in Eindhoven, Cologne, Munich, Innsbruck, and Verona. And the best part? The cheapest tickets are priced at only £99.
Running once a week in both directions until the end of March, this 21-hour journey offers an affordable and convenient way to travel through Europe. With prices starting at €119 (approximately £99), it's a steal at only £4.70 per hour. However, not everyone is happy about this new route.
The news of the European Sleeper has caught the attention of Metro readers, and opinions are divided. While some are excited about the journey and its affordable prices, others are using it as an opportunity to express their frustrations with the UK's expensive rail system.
One reader, Liz Leigh, commented on how it's a shame that such low prices are not available in the UK. Another, Pip Claire Gofton, pointed out the stark difference in cost between the European Sleeper and UK train fares, saying "it goes to show how overpriced the rail system is in the UK."
Colin Wright added his two cents, saying "if this train ever makes its way to the UK, the price will automatically triple. We are constantly being taken advantage of." And it seems many readers agree, with Humpty_Dumpty chiming in that "the moment the train crosses into the UK, the price skyrockets."
Some readers even compared the European Sleeper fare to their own experiences with UK train prices. Carol Estava was shocked to find that a train ticket from Manchester to London costs more than the European Sleeper fare, while Terry Nye's friend opted for a taxi because it was cheaper than the train from Plymouth to Bournemouth. Janet McCubbin also shared her disbelief at how expensive UK train fares can be, saying that a single train ticket in the UK cost more than two return flights from Spain.
But it's not just about the European Sleeper and its affordable prices. The discussion also highlighted the rising cost of UK train fares in recent years. With a 4.6% increase set for March 2025, rail fares in the UK are becoming increasingly unaffordable for many.
In comparison, air travel has become more accessible and often cheaper than UK train journeys. As one reader, Kate Katiekate, pointed out, in Spain you can pay just €10 for a ticket and get reimbursed if you use it more than 16 times. And in Germany, a Deutschland ticket costs €58 and covers all transport in the country for a whole month.
In light of these rising UK train fares, Metro and Ski Beat have teamed up to offer readers a chance to win a week-long ski trip in the French Alps. The winner and their lucky travel companion will stay in a private, ensuite room at the stylish Chalet Perdrix in La Rosière, a high-altitude resort in France. This amazing holiday can be taken in either April or December 2025, giving the winner the flexibility to choose the perfect ski time.
To enter, all you need to do is share your name and contact details for a chance to win. The competition closes on 21 February 2025, so don't miss your chance to win this dreamy ski chalet getaway.
For those interested in the European Sleeper, tickets can be booked on their website. The train runs twice a week until the end of March, departing from Brussels at 6:00pm and arriving in Venice at 3:00pm the next day. Prices start at €119 for a seat, but for a more luxurious experience, you can opt for a cabin at €239 per person.
The train also stops at 15 other destinations along the way, including Breda, Eindhoven, Cologne, Munich, Innsbruck, Verona, and more. And for those curious about the train's schedule, it runs in both directions, leaving Venice at 4:15pm and arriving back in Brussels at 12:38pm.
So whether you're looking for an affordable way to travel through Europe or dreaming of a ski getaway in the French Alps, these exciting opportunities are not to be missed. Share your thoughts on UK train fares and enter the competition for a chance to win a week in a dreamy ski chalet. And if you're planning a trip through Europe, don't forget to check out the European Sleeper for an affordable and comfortable journey.
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