Advertise on podcast: Rails, Ales & Old Towns: The Europe Travel Podcast
Rating
5from
This podcast has
34 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
Scott HartbeckExplicit
No
Date created
2023/02/28
Latest episode
2025/11/30
Average duration
46 min.
Release period
19 days
Description
*Podcast returns February 2026* 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.
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Check latest episodes from Rails, Ales & Old Towns: The Europe Travel Podcast podcast
33. Discover Why Saxony Is Germany’s Christmas Capital
2025/11/30
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
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.
32. Marseille: A Foodie City Unlike Anywhere Else in France
2025/11/25
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
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.
31. Why a Soccer Game Should Be on Your European Itinerary
2025/10/30
Scott is joined by Paul Gerald, founder of Groundhopper Guides, to talk about the unforgettable experience of watching European soccer. 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
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.
30. Meet European Sleeper: Europe’s Newest Night Train Company
2025/10/15
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
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.
29. Ten of the Best Bars in Europe (and What Makes Them Special)
2025/09/30
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
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.
28. Glasgow, Scotland: Get There Before Everybody Else Does
2025/09/19
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
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.
27. Interlaken: Where Swiss Traditions Meet Alpine Adventures
2025/08/27
Scott is joined by Celina Finger of Interlaken Tourism to talk about this special resort in the heart of Switzerland. Celina talks about the unique 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
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.
26. The Best German Beer Festivals Beyond Oktoberfest
2025/08/13
Scott welcomes back German beer expert Franz Hofer for a tour of the best beer festivals in Germany outside of Oktoberfest in Munich. Franz reveals 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
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.
25. Europe by Rail: The Book, Its Author and a Continent Full of Adventures
2025/07/31
This one’s for the rail travel lovers, as Scott is joined by Nicky Gardner, lead author of Europe by Rail: The Definitive Guide, to talk about her book, favorite train routes, the advantages of slowing down to savor Europe, and the mystique of Eurail (Interrail) passes. Plus much more.
Show notes and links to places discussed can be found here:
https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep25
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.
24. Brussels, Belgium: Quirky, Delicious, Underrated
2025/07/18
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
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.
23. Craft Beer in Paris: Paname Brewing Company
2025/06/25
Scott is joined by Michael Kennedy, founder of Paname Brewing Company, to talk about his craft brewery and living in the City of Light. Michael is a long-time resident in Paris and after chatting about Paname, its beers and special location, he pours out some advice on 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
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.
22. Naples, Italy Travel Report: Pizza, Pompeii & Piazzas
2025/06/12
Scott is joined by longtime friend Stu Wilson, whom he met while traveling in Europe. Scott and Stu recall the eventful night in Vienna when they became pals before Stu paints a picture of his recent trip to Naples, Italy. Stu dishes out 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.
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, yes, that Stu Wilson.
21. Barcelona, Spain: How To Eat, Drink & 'Sea' the City Like a Local
2025/05/21
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.
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.
20. Crowded Platforms and Window Seats: One Family's European Rail Adventure
2025/04/09
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.
Support the show by buying me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/railsalesoldtowns
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more Europe travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson.
19. Stockholm, Sweden: Beer Bars, Sunken Ships & Island Trips
2025/03/12
Scott is joined by Joel Hedman, a Stockholm tour guide and beer judge to talk about what makes his hometown such a great place to visit. Joel recommends his favorite beer bars in the city (with an emphasis on the cool Södermalm neighborhood) before talking about post-bar snacks and all the other great things to do in Stockholm, like visiting famous sights like the Vasa Museum & offbeat attractions, taking day trips to the local islands and taking part in Swedish festivals. Plus much more.
Show notes & links to all places discussed can be found here: https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep19.
Support the show by buying me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/railsalesoldtowns
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more Europe travel inspiration.
Podcast reviews
Read Rails, Ales & Old Towns: The Europe Travel Podcast podcast reviews
aceonweb 2026/01/21
The perfect podcast to plan your European travel or reminisce about past travel.
It’s been 20 years since my last backpacking adventure through Europe. Lately, I’ve been looking for ways to reminisce about the past while planning a...
Deeb Tallboy 2025/12/10
Love Marseille
Wonderful episode on a city we visited this summer. Alexis Steinman is exceptional!
Mag 10 2025/10/02
A little taste
Enjoyed the Amsterdam ep, excited to go to a brown cafe and take a boat tour
Me.909 2025/03/02
Prague!
Excellent advice from the host and beer tour guide for anyone going to Prague!
Rita 50's girl 2023/03/08
Enjoyed this Podcast
Hi Scott,
Just listened to your first Podcast. Listening to you and Adam talk about your travels makes me want to return to Europe soon.
I have been t...
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