In Europe, train holidays are back in fashion – in fact they may never have gone out of fashion. But don’t imagine you will be chugging around the countryside in a rickety old train, rubbing shoulders with backpackers and commuters. Today in Europe, train holidays mean travelling in style, relaxing in luxury accommodations as you explore East and Central Europe. Apart from the experience of the mode of transport itself, one of the most surprising and enjoyable things about this kind of upmarket train travel is the cuisine – both on board and in cities you will visit. And as you journey through Europe, train holidays will reflect the heritage and culture of each fascinating destination in the cuisine.

Unique flavours to savour

Eastern Europe features a unique flavour profile that encompasses both Hungarian and Romanian cuisine – this smorgasbord focuses on delicious smoked meat and sausage, flavourful vegetables, seasonal fruits that vary greatly during the year, and a vast array of cheeses. Keep an eye out for palacsinta, a thin stuffed pancake that can be savoury, hot or sweet, depending on the region you find yourself in. Hungarian cuisine is also famous for its piping hot stews and soups, perfect for the climate.

Regional delicacies

Naturally, the food will vary depending on the region. In Europe, train holidays can take you through three or four countries in a single journey so are perfect for exploring the flavour profile of each. The traditional food is often still prepared and served in the same way as it has been for hundreds of years.

Cheese and meat, for example, have remained unchanged over several centuries: heavily spiced and mixed into everything from stews to soups. Expect a heavy hand with paprika, cloves and other Middle Eastern, specifically Turkish, spices. A strong trade route between the empires has made its mark on Eastern European cuisine, so you are in for a true flavour adventure. Keep an open mind and taste everything!

While the cuisine is heavily meat based, vegetarians need not fear as there is plenty to enjoy – stuffed vegetables [do check the filling], rich vegetable stews, soups, and myriad versions of the humble mushroom are plentiful. Be sure to try sarmale, traditional cabbage rolls made with grape leaves. The local tips is that they are even better the next day, served cold for breakfast.

Local wines and something for the sweet tooth

The eastern and central areas of Europe have a rich wine tradition that can be traced back to ancient times. Romania, in particular, has a surprisingly diverse array of good wines well worth sampling.

To cap off your meal, the cuisine of Eastern Europe caters to the sweet tooth in abundance. Traditional Romanian or Hungarian desserts are a feast for the taste buds, although on the heavy side – try the chocolate bread pudding or the Romanian version of baklava.

In Europe, train holidays will whisk you through spellbinding countryside, take you to historic cites with masterpieces of architecture that will take your breath away, and introduce you to a cuisine so eclectic and exotic it will remain in your memory for many years to come. Enjoy!