Rails, Ales & Old Towns: The Europe Travel Podcast
Arts & Culture Podcasts
Go to Europe anytime you want, as writer and lover of European travel Scott Hartbeck takes you on a grand tour of the continent, celebrating all the great things to eat, drink and do while you’re there.
Expect plenty of stories, advice and trip...
Location:
United States
Genres:
Arts & Culture Podcasts
Description:
Go to Europe anytime you want, as writer and lover of European travel Scott Hartbeck takes you on a grand tour of the continent, celebrating all the great things to eat, drink and do while you’re there. Expect plenty of stories, advice and trip inspiration as he explores destinations—from the iconic to the underrated—alongside guests from across the spectrum of European travel. From tour guides, authors and beer & wine connoisseurs to rail travel aficionados and the occasional globetrotting friend, you never know who will come along for the ride. Scott has been going to Europe for 20 years and has a passion for all the fun little things that make the European travel experience so special. Think happy hours in the train dining car instead of hours spent waiting in line at overcrowded attractions. Whether you’re planning a future trip or want to relive the magic of a past European adventure, this podcast will take you there.
Language:
English
Episodes
39. European Rail Travel Tips & Stories with The Man in Seat 61 | Mark Smith
4/30/2026
Scott is joined by Mark Smith, better known as The Man in Seat 61, to talk all things European rail travel, from how he first fell in love with it to why he still believes rail is the best way to explore the continent. On the show, Mark shares stories from his early rail adventures across Europe (and beyond) before taking us on a tour of some of his favorite European rail stations and cities, including tips on cafes and bars. Along the way, he also offers plenty of practical advice, including insight into one of the biggest questions travelers face: when it makes sense to buy a Eurail Pass, and when it doesn’t. Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/railsalesoldtowns Show notes and links to places discussed: https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep39 Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration. Theme music by Stu Wilson.
Duration:00:48:15
38. The Italian Lakes: Como, Maggiore, Iseo and More | Kathy McCabe
4/18/2026
Kathy McCabe, the host of TV show Dream of Italy and founder of Dream of Italy Magazine, joins Scott for a whirlwind tour of northern Italy’s stunning lake region, from popular destinations like Como, Maggiore and Garda to lesser-known lakes like Orta, Iseo and Annone.
Along the way, Kathy shares her advice for visiting the Italian Lakes, including where to stay and how to make the most of your time in this beautiful part of Europe.
The episode wraps up with a conversation about her experience helping people turn their dream of moving to Italy into a reality.
Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/railsalesoldtowns
Show notes and links to places discussed: https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep38
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson.
Duration:00:33:10
37. Europe Travel Tales: From the 90s to Today
3/25/2026
Mark Wolters, the founder of the hugely popular Wolters World YouTube channel, joins Scott to share stories and lessons from nearly 30 years of traveling across Europe. From early backpacking adventures and teaching abroad to both funny & memorable moments on the rails and sipping ales, Mark reflects on how European travel has changed over the decades (both for better and for worse) while offering plenty of practical advice for visiting Europe. Expect a lot of 90s and early 2000s Eurotrip nostalgia along the way, too. Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/railsalesoldtowns Show notes and links to places discussed: https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep37 Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration. Theme music by Stu Wilson.
Duration:00:46:17
36. Irish Pints and Dublin Pubs
3/11/2026
Ali Dunworth, author of A Compendium of Irish Pints, joins Scott to talk about Irish pint culture & pubs, and the traditions that make them both so special and beloved. Along the way, she shares her passion for snugs (and why they're so special), suggests what snacks to order with your pint, reveals why beer mats are a big deal and tells us some of her favorite Dublin pubs. Plus so very much more. Whether you love Ireland or just love great pubs, this episode offers plenty of insider insight into the Emerald Isle and Ireland travel inspiration.
Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/railsalesoldtowns
Show notes and links to places discussed: https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep36
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson.
Duration:00:41:51
35. A Walk Through Copenhagen, Scandinavia's Craft Beer Capital
2/28/2026
Christoffer Hansen, founder of BeerWalks, joins Scott to explain how Copenhagen became one of the best cities for craft beer in Europe. From the brewery that sparked the revolution to today’s best craft beer bars and character-filled dives, Christoffer shares where to sip and what you can expect on one of his craft beer walks through the city. He also offers tips on where to go to see a unique side of Copenhagen beyond the postcards and recommends a dreamy Danish island you need to visit.
Show notes and links to places discussed: https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep35
Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/railsalesoldtowns
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson.
Duration:00:42:05
34. Nine Nights, Nine Countries, One Crazy Rail Trip
2/11/2026
Travel writer Jules Brown joins Scott to talk about the rail adventure that inspired his book Not Cool: Europe by Train in a Heatwave. Jules relives the highlights (and hilarious lowlights) of the adventure that saw him visit Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Bratislava, Ljubljana, Zagreb, Liechtenstein, Zurich and Milan in quick succession ... during a sweltering heatwave. Jules also shares how he got into travel writing and gives the lowdown about his other European rail-focused book.
Show notes and links to places discussed: https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep34
Support the show by buying me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/railsalesoldtowns
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson.
Duration:00:48:10
33. Discover Why Saxony Is Germany’s Christmas Capital
11/30/2025
Scott is joined by Wolfgang Gärtner of Saxony Tourism for a special holiday episode about what makes Saxony the true heart of German Christmas. Wolfgang takes us on a merry tour of Dresden and the Ore Mountains, famed for their Christmas markets, festive food, wooden toys, candle arches, nutcrackers, miners' parades and many more seasonal delights. Along the way, you’ll discover a hidden gem town in Gorlitz and find out why the region of Saxony captures the magic of the holiday season like nowhere else in Germany.
Show notes and links to places discussed can be found here:
https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep33
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson.
Duration:00:47:23
32. Marseille: A Foodie City Unlike Anywhere Else in France
11/25/2025
Fresh off his first visit, Scott is joined by travel and food writer Alexis Steinman to explore why Marseille is one of France’s most interesting—and most mouthwatering—cities. Alexis explains what makes the city so unique, from its layered identity and Mediterranean energy to the delicious signature dishes and local aperitif that define its diverse food culture. Along the way, Alexis shares plenty of tips on where to eat, drink and experience the one-of-a-kind spirit of Marseille.
Show notes and links to places discussed can be found here:
https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep32
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson.
Duration:00:46:26
31. Why A European Soccer Game Should Be on Your Itinerary
10/30/2025
Scott is joined by Paul Gerald, founder of Groundhopper Guides, to talk about the unforgettable experience of watching soccer in Europe. They discuss Paul’s stadium adventures, why attending a match is one of the best ways to get to know a city and Paul’s tips for travelers planning their own soccer-centric European trip. Plus much more.
Show notes and links to places discussed can be found here:
https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep31
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson.
Duration:00:43:33
30. Meet European Sleeper: Europe’s Newest Night Train Company
10/15/2025
Scott is joined by Chris Engelsman—co-founder of European Sleeper, Europe's newest night train service—to talk about the special experience that night trains offer, what makes European Sleeper unique, highlights from its routes, and what to expect from the brand in the years ahead—plus a few travel tales from the rails.
Show notes and links to places discussed can be found here:
https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep30
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson.
Duration:00:26:09
29. 10 of the Best Bars in Europe (and What Makes Them Special)
9/30/2025
Scott is joined by Jack Anderton, the founder of The European Bar Guide, to talk about the magic to be found at 10 of Europe's best bars. From hidden gems to icons, their conversation covers them all and offers plenty of inspiration for your next trip with stories of character-filled bars & pubs that capture the spirit of their cities.
Show notes and links to places discussed can be found here:
https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep29
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson.
Duration:00:56:09
28. Glasgow, Scotland: Get There Before Everyone Else Does
9/19/2025
Scott is joined by Gillian Morrison, founder of Glasgow Food & Drink Tour, for a flavorful journey through Scotland’s biggest city. In addition to talking about Glasgow’s buzzing food scene (she covers everything from traditional Scottish fare to incredible Indian food), Gillian fills us in on Glasgow's legendary music culture, iconic pubs and some of its best-kept secrets. Naturally, there's a little rail travel and local beer talk thrown in, too.
Show notes and links to places discussed can be found here:
https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep28
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson.
Duration:00:43:29
27. Interlaken: Where Swiss Traditions Meet Alpine Adventures
8/27/2025
Scott is joined by Celina Finger of Interlaken Tourism to talk about this special resort in the heart of Switzerland. Celina talks about the special history of the town before giving us a lowdown on all the best things to do and see there today, with a few insider tips and hidden gems along the way.
Show notes and links to places discussed can be found here:
https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep27
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson.
Duration:00:34:33
26. The Best German Beer Festivals Beyond Oktoberfest
8/13/2025
Scott is joined by German beer expert Franz Hofer for a tour to five of Germany's best beer festivals besides Oktoberfest in Munich. Franz reveals some of the fascinating origins of the fests before detailing what to expect at each one, and pouring out some advice on what to drink when you're there.
Links to Franz's website and all festivals & beers discussed can be found here:
https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep26
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson.
Duration:01:01:20
25. Europe by Rail: The Book, Its Author, and a Continent Full of Adventures
7/31/2025
This one's for the rail travel lovers as Scott is joined by Nicky Gardner, lead author of Europe by Rail, to talk about her book in addition to favorite train routes, scenic views, the advantages of slowing down to savor Europe and much more. They also take a nostalgic look at Eurail (Interrail) passes through the years.
Show notes and links to places discussed can be found here:
https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep25
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson.
Duration:00:49:51
Brussels, Belgium: Quirky, Delicious, Underrated
7/18/2025
Scott is joined by the founder of Hungry Mary Food Tours to talk about all the delicious reasons why you should visit Brussels ... and to dissect why this great city still flies under the radar. Mary drops some knowledge about Belgian culture and the city's iconic sights while also offering up tons of tips on where to eat and drink in the city.
Show notes and links to places discussed can be found here:
https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep24
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson
Duration:00:39:38
Paris by the Pint
6/25/2025
Scott is joined by founder of Paname Brewing Company Michael Kennedy to talk about his brewery and living in the City of Light. Michael is a long-time resident in Paris and after talking about his brewery, its beers and special location, he pours some advice on some hidden gems in the city and places to enjoy a Paris sunset.
Show notes and links to places discussed can be found here:
https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep23
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Duration:00:33:55
Naples, Italy Travel Report: Pizza, Pompeii & Piazzas
6/12/2025
Scott is joined by longtime friend Stu Wilson, whom he met while traveling in Europe. Scott and Stu give a breakdown of that eventful night in Vienna before Stu paints a picture of his recent trip to Naples, Italy, including some tips on visiting Pompeii, Mt. Vesuvius and places where he enjoyed pizza in the city. (The discussion of Naples begins around the 15:00 mark.)
Show notes and links to all places discussed can be found here: https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep22.
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Duration:00:46:11
Barcelona, Spain: How To Eat, Drink & 'Sea' the City Like a Local
5/21/2025
Scott is joined by Matt Floret, the founder of Food Lover Tour, to talk about all the great things to eat, drink, and do in Barcelona, Spain. Matt serves up his personal recommendations of restaurants, bars, and places to avoid the crowds and also suggests some lesser-known things to do in the city.
Show notes and links to all places discussed can be found here: https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep21.
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Duration:00:49:33
Crowded Platforms and Window Seats: One Family's European Rail Adventure
4/9/2025
Scott is joined by Judy Yorke, author of Crowded Platforms and Window Seats, to discuss the fantastic family Interrail (Eurail) trip that inspired her book. In addition, they chat at length about the all-around magic of European rail travel, and Judy dishes out advice for families looking to follow in her footsteps.
Show notes & links to all places discussed can be found here: https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep20.
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more Europe travel inspiration.
Duration:00:51:17