How to Plan a Smooth Multi-Stage Trip from London to Hamburg, or Wherever You’re Going.
Travelling across Europe by train and plane can feel like a logistical headache. But with a bit of planning (and learning from my own experiences!), you can turn it into a seamless, memorable adventure. Here’s exactly how to do it, with my best real-world tips from a recent journey.
1️⃣ Leave Early and Stay Close to Transport
Why it matters:
Travel days are stressful enough without worrying about traffic or a long commute to your departure point. By staying near a major station, you remove one major source of worry.
Our experience:
We booked a hotel in South Kensington, which was only five minutes on foot to the tube. From there, it was a quick hop to Victoria station for our Gatwick Express train. That proximity meant no panicked last-minute taxi, no Uber delays, and no surprises with engineering works on the Underground.
👉Tips:
✅ The night before a flight or train journey, choose accommodation near a transport hub, especially if you have an early departure.
✅ Check for potential strikes or maintenance closures on public transport.
✅ If staying overnight feels expensive, balance it against what missing your connection might cost.
2️⃣ Use Online Check-In & Travel Light
Why it matters:
Airports are stressful! Don’t add to it by queueing unnecessarily.
Our experience:
Because we checked in online, we skipped the check-in counter completely and went straight through security. With only hand luggage, we were through in minutes and had time for a relaxing breakfast. Think about what you need on your trip, rather than what you want. You can easily reduce a check in bag down to a cabin bag, saving a lot of time.
👉Tips:
✅ Always check in online and download your boarding pass to your phone.
✅ Travel with a cabin-sized bag whenever possible — no waiting for luggage, no lost bag drama.
✅ Know your airline’s cabin bag size rules, as budget airlines can be strict.
✅ If you do need to check a bag, pay for it online in advance — it’s usually cheaper.
3️⃣ Expect Long Walks at Airports
Why it matters:
Modern airports are huge. Underestimating walking distances to your gate is one of the easiest mistakes to make.
Our experience:
Gatwick sent us to gate 113, which felt halfway to Sussex! It was a long, seemingly endless walk, especially tricky if you’re running late or carrying breakfast in one hand. Luckily, we weren’t, but it was still a loooong way!
👉Tips:
✅ As soon as your gate is displayed, start heading there.
✅ Factor in at least 15 minutes for walking to distant gates.
✅ If you have mobility needs, look into assistance services ahead of time.
✅ Avoid bulky hand luggage you can’t comfortably carry over long distances.
4️⃣ Make the Most of Arrival Gaps
Why it matters:
You’ll often land with a gap before check-in at your hotel or entry to an attraction. Use that time wisely rather than wandering aimlessly.
Our experience:
We landed in Hamburg with two hours to kill before our timed entry to Miniatur Wunderland. Instead of hanging around the station, we explored and found Prego, a casual pizzeria, where we had a relaxed lunch. It was far better than sitting around with a limp sandwich, except for the olives on my margarita pizza. Who does that!?
👉 Tips:
✅ Research a shortlist of cafés or restaurants near your arrival point.
✅ Check Google reviews so you aren’t wandering hungry and overwhelmed.
✅ Have a list of sights or parks to explore if you have spare time.
✅ Look for luggage storage services if you need to roam freely before check-in.
5️⃣ Visit Miniatur Wunderland - It’s Worth It!
Why it matters:
Planning your itinerary around a truly unique attraction can transform a stopover into a highlight.
Our experience:
Miniatur Wunderland, captured below, exceeded every expectation. With 12 themed worlds, 12km of tiny rail track, and astonishing attention to detail, it was a jaw-dropping way to spend three hours. The €20 ticket price felt like a bargain.
👉Tips:
✅ Always book timed tickets online, especially for popular attractions. Get My Guide is a great resource for this.
✅ Aim for off-peak hours if you dislike crowds.
✅ Budget more time than you think you’ll need. It is always better to have some free time than to be rushing.
✅ Don’t forget to check for lockers to store large bags.
6️⃣ Sleeper Trains: Worth a Try
Why it matters:
Sleeper trains save both money and time — but they aren’t all created equal.
Our experience:
We tried a “mini cabin” on a night train to Innsbruck. It was tiny (8x2 feet) but comfortable enough, with a fold-down table, power socket, window, and some clever storage spaces. Compared to sitting upright for 13 hours, it was bliss.
👉Tips:
✅ Research different cabin types — some have en-suite bathrooms, others don’t.
✅ Bring earplugs and an eye mask for better sleep.
✅ Pack snacks, as not all night trains have proper dining options.
✅ If you want to socialise, look for trains with communal lounges or bar cars.
✅ Double-check if bedding is provided or you need to bring a sheet, or a pillow!
7️⃣ Pack a Flexible Attitude
Why it matters:
Travel never goes 100% to plan, so a mindset shift makes all the difference.
Our experience:
Between a flight delay, the longest walk to a gate ever, and an extremely snug sleeper cabin, our journey had its bumps. But with a sense of humour and a flexible approach, it felt like part of the adventure, not a disaster.
👉Tips:
✅ Build buffer time into your schedule.
✅ Expect the occasional delay or inconvenience.
✅ Take things in stride, and focus on the story you’ll have later.
✅ See unexpected changes as opportunities to explore.
Final Thoughts
If you want to tackle a multi-stage trip, keep these lessons in mind:
✅ Book accommodation near transport hubs
✅ Check in online and travel light
✅ Plan for long airport walks
✅ Research local restaurants for arrival gaps
✅ Pre-book tickets for must-see attractions
✅ Try a sleeper train at least once
✅ Keep a flexible attitude
By planning ahead and keeping your sense of adventure alive, you’ll transform what could be a stressful travel day into a smooth and memorable journey.
And finally, don’t just dream it, live it!