About Rails, Ales & Old Towns: A Europe Travel Podcast
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.
44. Antwerp, Belgium: Chocolate, Beer, Diamonds and So Much More | Carolien Krijnen
Carolien Krijnen, a passionate Antwerp tour guide, joins Scott to share her love for Antwerp, the city she calls home, and offer a local's take on experiencing the sights, food and drink of this stylish Belgian city.
On the show, Carolien talks about Antwerp's famous sights, like the gorgeous rail station and cathedral, in addition to some of the city's lesser-known spots and stories. Scott also shares some observations from his recent visit, while Carolien offers her local perspective. They also get into Antwerp's fashion scene, its status as one of the world's diamond capitals and, of course, the chocolate shops, restaurants and beer cafés that make the city such a fun place to visit. You’ll also find out why one of Antwerp’s nicknames is “The Cookie City.”
The conversation includes plenty of specific recommendations for where to eat, grab a Belgian beer, or sip a glass of wine, as well as Carolien's thoughts on why Antwerp might just be one of the best cities in Europe. Plus much more.
Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/railsalesoldtowns
Carolien's website - Antwerp Connection
Show notes and links to places discussed: https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep44
Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson.
30 Aug 2026
43. Stories From 25 Years as a Temporary European | Cameron Hewitt
Guidebook writer and author Cameron Hewitt joins Scott to share stories, advice and memorable moments from more than 25 years of exploring Europe.
Cameron spends around 100 days a year traveling the continent as part of his job with Rick Steves’ Europe, and the conversation covers some of the quintessentially European experiences that have stayed with him, from small, unexpected moments that became lasting memories to the pinch-me experiences that had to be earned.
Scott and Cameron also talk about Cameron's book, The Temporary European: Lessons and Confessions of a Professional Traveler, which Scott thoroughly enjoyed and which offers plenty of laughs, insights and plenty of opportunities for vicarious travel.
Along the way, Cameron also shares a couple of places to stay that deserve a spot on your list, explains why Central Europe has his heart, and offers advice for avoiding the crowds. Plus much more.
Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/railsalesoldtowns Show notes and links to places discussed: https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep43 Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration. Theme music by Stu Wilson.
14 Aug 2026
42. Madrid: Eat, Drink and Explore Your Way Through Spain's Capital | Joy Figueroa
Joy Figueroa (@joyofmadrid) joins Scott to share her love for Madrid, the city she's called home for the past 16 years, and offer an insider's take on experiencing the great food and drink of this special city.
On the show, Joy goes beyond Madrid's famous sights and into some of the city's coolest neighborhoods, sharing ideas for what to see and do along the way. She also dishes on the food and drink scene that makes Madrid such a delicious place to visit, from tapas, tortilla and calamari sandwiches to beer and the city's beloved vermouth.
The conversation includes plenty of specific bar and restaurant recommendations and some ideas for other Spanish destinations that pair perfectly with a trip to the capital.
Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/railsalesoldtowns Show notes and links to places discussed: https://www.railsalesoldtowns.com/ep42 Follow @railsalesoldtowns on Instagram & Facebook for more European travel inspiration.
Theme music by Stu Wilson.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
19 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
6 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 20 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
