Rails, Ales & Old Towns: A Europe Travel Podcast

Dec 10 2024 19 ep. 35 mins 1

Rails, Ales & Old Towns: A Europe Travel Podcast artwork

*Returns March 2025* Get set for your next trip to Europe by joining writer and lover of European travel Scott Hartbeck on a grand tour of the continent, celebrating all the great things to eat, drink, and do while you’re there. Expect plenty of travel tips and inspiration as Scott explores a wide range of European destinations—from the iconic to the underrated—alongside local experts and globetrotting friends. Scott has been going to Europe for nearly 20 years and, in addition to collecting an abundance of stories and insider advice, has developed a true passion for all the fun little things that make the European travel experience so special. Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for European travel inspiration between episodes.

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Prague Is for Beer Lovers

Dec 10 2024 46 mins

Scott is joined by Lukáš Vondra, founder of Prague Beer Guides, to talk about the beer culture in the Czech capital and some of the best off-the-beaten-path things to do and see in the city. Lukáš also talks about what it's like guiding visitors around Prague, recommends some of his favorite pubs and tells us what food to eat while drinking Czech pilsner. Show notes & link

Croatia Travel Report: Dubrovnik, Korčula, Hvar & Šolta

Oct 24 2024 36 mins

Scott welcomes back longtime friend, world traveler & former travel writer Adam Seper for a full account of his recent trip to Croatia. Adam and his family visited multiple islands in addition to Plitvice Lakes National Park, and on the show, Adam offers up some advice you'll want to know if you're considering a trip to Croatia. Show notes & links to places discussed can be

Exploring Provence, France on Foot

Sep 25 2024 35 mins

Scott is joined by travel writer Rory Moulton to talk about The Luberon Loop, which is his custom guide to walking one of France's most wonderful regions. Show notes & links to places discussed can be found here: https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep16. Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more Europe trip inspiration.

The Eurail Pass: Rockstar of European Rail Travel

Jul 23 2024 37 mins

Rail is by far the best way to see Europe, and the best way to experience Europe by rail is with a Eurail pass (Interrail pass). In this episode, Scott is joined by Hugo Van Vondelen from Eurail to discuss what makes the legendary rail pass unique while sharing plenty of tips and tales of riding the rails. Show notes & links to places discussed can be found here: https://rails

The Great Beer Gardens of Bavaria, Germany

Jun 28 2024 48 mins

Scott chats with Franz Hofer, an expert on German beer culture, about the charm of the beer gardens in Germany's Bavaria region and why they are so much more than just a place to have a beer. Franz gives a quick history lesson of these heavenly al fresco drinking spots before serving up tips on some of the best beer gardens to see during your next trip. Show notes & links to a

All Things Amsterdam With an Authentic Canal Boat Captain

Apr 23 2024 40 mins

Scott is joined by Neil Robinson, comedian and co-founder of canal boat tour company Those Dam Boat Guys to talk about why Amsterdam is such a special place. Neil gives his local advice for visiting, including tips on waterside bars, under-the-radar attractions and food to try in the city. Show notes & links to places discussed can be found here: http://www.railsalesoldtowns.c

Portugal By Rail & Local Lisbon Travel Tips

Apr 09 2024 28 mins

Scott is joined by travel writer Joana Taborda to talk about the fun of exploring her home country of Portugal by rail and to discuss some of her favorite Portuguese travel destinations. Then, Joana shares some tips for making the most of your time in Lisbon, including advice on craft breweries, scenic overlooks and the best month to visit. Show notes & links to places discuss

A Toast to Hungarian Wine and Budapest

Mar 27 2024 30 mins

Scott is joined by Gábor Bánfalvi from Taste Hungary for a fun dive into the Hungarian wine scene. After a whirlwind tour of some of Hungary's best wine regions and grapes, Gábor gives some personal tips for experiencing the capital Budapest. Show notes & links to places discussed can be found here: http://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep11. Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagr

Whatever You Do, Don't Skip Belgium & Belgian Beer

Mar 12 2024 42 mins

Scott is joined by Stu Stuart (founder of Belgian Beer Me! Tours) to talk about why underrated Belgium is such a sensational European destination. Stu shares personal Belgium travel tips, including advice on beer cafes in Bruges & frites in Ghent, and stories from his years of leading beer pilgrims on tours across Belgium. Show notes & links to places discussed can be foun

Rome, Italy: Food & Travel Tips From a Local Expert

Feb 27 2024 37 mins

Scott is joined by Kenny Dunn, founder of Eating Europe food tours, for a food-focused chat about Rome featuring plenty of personal recommendations and advice on pizza, coffee and late-night bites. Kenny also suggests some of his favorite lesser-known things to see and do in the city. Show notes & links to places discussed can be found here: http://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep