If you’re planning to travel through Europe, train travel is an excellent way to save money. A train ride can be as quick as three hours from station to station and get you in the heart of the city in no time. Flying within Europe is very cheap, too, thanks to budget airlines. Many flights cost less than $100 one-way. However, the price of high-speed rail is usually higher. But train travel in Europe is an excellent way to save money and explore the continent!
Interrail Global Pass
The Interrail Global Pass is an excellent choice for travellers who want to explore Europe by train. With discounts at many attractions, this travel pass is a great way to experience the beauty of the continent without having to spend too much money. The pass is also environmentally friendly and reduces CO2 emissions, making it one of the most eco-friendly modes of transport. Its low-cost, easy-to-use technology means that you’ll never have to deal with airport security or luggage restrictions. The Interrail pass also lets you experience the rich history and culture of the continent.
Sleeper trains
If you want to save yourself four hours each day, travel by sleeper train. Most sleeper trains depart from Paris’ Gare de Lyon, stopping in Milan and Venice along the way. They offer no seats and sleep four to six people in a couchette. You can also opt for a premium cabin with shower access. If you’re traveling with your partner, book a sleeper cabin to avoid any potential problems, such as a bumpy ride.
Flexible full-price tickets
Unlike air travel, train fares are flexible and can change depending on when you purchase them. For example, a ticket from Paris to Amsterdam can cost just EUR35 if purchased several months in advance, but can cost as much as EUR130 on the day of travel. Flexible full-price tickets are the best way to travel Europe because they allow you to change your plans without incurring huge costs. Also, every ticket you buy comes with a reserved seat, and trains rarely sell out, except during high-traffic times.
Seat reservations
When travelling by train across Europe, it’s worth checking if you need to make seat reservations in advance. While they’re not always necessary, reservations are sometimes crucial and often pointless. Here’s a look at when they’re crucial, and when they’re not. If you haven’t booked a reservation yet, you can always do so at a staffed train station or even from home.
Booking in advance
One of the most important tips when travelling by train in Europe is to book your tickets in advance. While you can buy tickets from the train stations themselves, it is better to book long distance trips in advance. This is because train tickets vary depending on the date of travel, and the price of flexible and refundable tickets will depend on whether or not you travel during certain periods. Also, every ticket will have a reserved seat, so it is not possible to hop on the next train if you miss your train.