Traveling by train in Europe: Information for beginners

For decades, train travel throughout Europe has been extremely popular among travelers. Using the train system can be a cost-effective, efficient way to travel, but it can be overwhelming for first timers. Here, we offer simple step-by-step information for beginners hoping to take advantage of the sprawling train system throughout Europe.

Step One: Decide if you will purchase individual tickets or passes

Knowing and understanding your ticket options prior to train travel is extremely important as it will save you time, money, and hassle. The first thing all travelers must consider is if they will purchase individual tickets or passes.

Individual tickets are exactly what they sound like - they can be purchased for each individual leg of travel. These tickets are best to purchase in advance, as many train operators (especially high speed trains) have variable pricing, meaning prices change with demand and often skyrocket as departure dates draw closer. However, regional trains often have fixed rates based solely on distance traveled. These tickets can be purchased at any time, but planning ahead is never a bad idea if you know the dates and times you will be traveling.

Passes are another option for travelers looking to take advantage of trains. Eurail passes are iconic among backpacker communities and have been used to travel throughout Europe for decades. There are two types of Eurail passes for travelers to choose from: the Global Pass or the One Country Pass. Global Passes allow travelers to take routes between 33 participating countries while One Country Passes, as in the name, allow travelers to take routes within one specific country. Both types of passes have multiple options based on the duration of your trip and the number of days you will be traveling by train. Travelers can take as many routes as they please within the travel duration and number of travel days they select when purchasing their pass. One thing to keep in mind with passes, however, is that several, primarily high-speed routes, require advance reservations because some companies limit the number of pass holders allowed to board per trip. Additionally, be aware that Eurail passes can only be used on intercity trains, not local transportation within cities such as subways and buses.

Deciding whether to purchase individual tickets or a pass is truly a matter of personal preference. Typically, if you will only be traveling between a few different cities, individual tickets purchased in advance can be a great deal! However, keep in mind that many discounted tickets are nonrefundable, so this may only be a good option if you are sure of your travel dates and times. On the other hand, purchasing a pass may be a great idea if flexibility is your top priority. At the end of the day, do the math! Map your route using individual tickets and compare to the price of a pass.

Step Two: Book tickets or passes

Luckily, in the age of technology, booking train tickets or passes is extremely easy. Individual tickets, just like airline tickets, can be purchased directly from the train company or through third party sites. Some of the largest and best rated train operators in Europe include SNCF, Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Renfe, and Trenitalia. Keep in mind that most countries have their own national rail lines, so you may want to search specifically for those companies if you are traveling within one country. However, there are countless other options, so it is usually best to search for train tickets on third party sites such as Rail Europe, Trainline, or Omio. Think of these sites similarly to third party airline ticket sites - they pull routes from all operators to find the best itineraries and prices for the date and time you would like to travel.

For citizens or legal residents of countries outside of Europe, Eurail passes can be purchased directly online. Outside of Eurail’s official site, passes can also be purchased from Rail Pass, Rail Europe, and Trainline. These sites are occasionally offering sales, so it is worth checking them first before purchasing your pass. Additionally, if need be, passes can be purchased at most rail stations, however this tends to be the most expensive option.  

Step Three: Download apps to travel smarter & easier

Especially when visiting multiple destinations and using various modes of transportation, staying organized while traveling is essential! As travel experts, we always recommend downloading apps that make travel easier ahead of your trip. Fortunately, there are some great tools available to make rail travel easier as well! Similar to airlines, many operators have company-specific apps. Additionally, third party booking sites including Rail Europe, Trainline, and Omio have apps that help to keep all of your train travel organized at your fingertips. After booking your tickets, check your app store to see if the rail operator and/or booking site you used offers an app to keep track of your itineraries.

Additionally, Eurail pass holders should consider downloading the Rail Planner app. This app allows you to search for routes, upgrade seats, check departure times, and make required reservations for specific itineraries.

Step Four: Arrive at and navigate train stations

Especially for first time train travelers, it is recommended to arrive at the train station early. Stations can be busy and stressful to navigate, so being prepared with a bit of extra time will be helpful. Luckily, most stations throughout Europe will have signs and kiosks in English.

First, ensure you have your rail tickets either downloaded onto your mobile device (you will need a QR code for the conductor to scan) or printed from a kiosk. If you are a Eurail Pass holder, you will need to have your pass ready to scan on your mobile device. Next, you will need to find your platform. Just like in airports, train stations will have departure boards. It is a good practice to always check these, as they will be the most up to date. After you find your platform, make sure to validate your printed ticket (if applicable) before entering the train. Validation boxes are usually easy to find and plentiful at stations - they should be small and yellow, you can insert your ticket and the machine will stamp it. This allows conductors to check that you are traveling at your ticketed time and not just trying to score a free ride. Lastly, always ensure that you can easily navigate the luggage you are carrying. Although trains do not have luggage restrictions, you will be responsible for loading and unloading your bags when getting on and off of the train.

Step Five: Enjoy the ride!

Now that you have your tickets and have boarded the train, your only job is to sit back and relax! Trains are known for being a very comfortable way to travel, with larger seats and cleaner restrooms than planes and buses. Additionally, many trains offer charging ports (make sure you have the right adapter), Wifi, food, and drinks. You can also bring your own food and drinks aboard! Above all else, make sure to enjoy the stunning European scenery as you glide to your next destination.

If you have any additional questions, always feel free to reach out to our travel specialists. We will have you on your way in no time!