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The Ultimate Guide to European Train Travel With a Eurail Pass

Here’s how every type of traveler—not just backpackers—can benefit from this all-in-one train ticket..

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Eurail Passes can be used on scenic trains, too, like this one in Switzerland.

Photo by Shutterstock

If you’re planning a multi-city tour of the continent this summer and will rely on trains to get around, you may want to consider purchasing a Eurail Pass. Haven’t thought about buying a Eurail Pass since your backpacking days? You’re not alone. The last time I traveled with one was in 2007 as a college student. After forking over about $500 (from my part-time job as a barista) for the multi-use train ticket, I rode at least a dozen trains from Amsterdam to Paris and on to Madrid over the course of a month that summer. I saved not only money but also time waiting to buy tickets because I could walk on to most trains and have the conductor punch my pass on board.

For beginners to European train travel, the Eurail Pass is a single document that allows non-European citizens to travel by train multiple times across a network of 33 European countries. The travel must occur over a specified period of time, and the pass forgos the need to buy individual point-to-point tickets. The Eurail Pass, which is celebrating its 64th anniversary this year, can be used for riding local trains, high-speed trains, and even night trains. In addition to the flexibility and time-saving benefits it affords, traveling with one can also save you money, depending on your travel plans.

Here’s everything you need to know about Eurail Passes before you buy one.

How do Eurail Passes work?

You can choose from either a One Country Pass , which covers train travel in a single country, or a Eurail Global Pass , which offers unlimited train travel across 33 countries in Europe, using their national railroads. Within each pass type, there are even more options. There are ones for children (ages 4 to 11), youth (12 to 27), adults (28+), and seniors (60+). They come in first- and second-class options across all age categories.

The passes also cover different trip lengths for both One Country and Global Passes. The flexible, four-days-in-one-month pass is for you if you’re going on a shorter getaway and won’t be taking trains regularly. The pass with three months of unlimited travel is best used for fast-paced trips where you plan to cover a lot of ground over an extended time.

The validities for flexible passes include:

• Four travel days within one month
• Five travel days within one month
• Seven travel days within one month
• 10 travel days within two months
• 15 travel days within two months

There are also passes available for unlimited travel days during set periods of time. Those continuous train passes include durations of:

• Two travel months
• Three travel months

The pass is sold by the number of travel days you are planning on using it. Each travel day covers as many trains you’d like to take between the 24-hour time window from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on the same calendar day. Keep in mind, there are exceptions to be made if you’re taking a night train. For example, if you book a train that leaves on Monday night and arrives on Tuesday morning, you will only need to use one travel day (the day of your departure) to cover that trip. However, if you choose to board another train on Tuesday, you’ll have to use another travel day on your pass.

To find the ideal pass for your particular trip, Eurail built an online tool that lets you fill in your travel plans, including which countries you plan to visit, how many days you intend to travel by train, and the length of your entire trip. At the end of the short survey, it recommends the pass that suits your needs best.

A TGV high-speed train at Gare du Nord in Paris

Photo by Hans Engbers / Shutterstock

Where can you buy a Eurail Pass?

You can buy any type of Eurail Pass online from Eurail.com , but several other sites sell them, too. RailPass and Rail Europe are both authorized vendors that sell Eurail Passes for around the same price as Eurail.com with slight variations to insurance and service fees.

Some offer free shipping and others offer special discounts and promo codes on tickets, so it’s best to check all your options before purchasing your pass to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

You can also purchase Eurail Passes at train stations in Europe, but that’s more expensive than ordering them online in advance.

How much does a Eurail Pass cost?

In 2023, the cost of a Eurail Global Pass purchased directly through Eurail starts at $276 for second-class fares and $351 for first-class seats for the four-days-in-one-month pass for adults. A 15-day unlimited pass for adults currently ranges from $498 to $631.

The most expensive pass is the three-month unlimited pass, which starts at $1,013 and goes up to $1,286 when bought directly through Eurail.

Considering that a two-month unlimited pass costs between $822 to $1,043, you’re only paying a few hundred more for an entire extra month of unlimited train travel.

One Country Passes are slightly more affordable and vary by each country. For example, adult passes for Italy bought directly from Eurail range from $142 to $270 for second class and $181 to $342 for first class.

Eurail also groups certain regions so you can get multiple countries for the price of one with its Benelux Pass (Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg) and Scandinavia Pass (Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden). Note that Eurail does not offer One Country Passes for certain countries that are included in the Global Pass, such as Switzerland, Montenegro, and Bosnia.

In 2020, Eurail launched its first-ever mobile version of the Eurail Pass via its Rail Planner App.

Courtesy of Eurail

Are Eurail Passes worth it?

It depends. If you know you’ll have four travel days over a one-month period, a second-class pass would cost most adults $276—or $69 per day. If the train you need to take costs more than $69, or if you’ll be taking multiple trains in one day that add up to more than that, it’s worth buying that pass. If you only need a less costly regional train to get between cities like Amsterdam and Brussels, however, then it’s probably not worth it.

For those who would argue that buying $50 RyanAir or EasyJet flights to jump from city to city is faster and cheaper, keep in mind that once you add on arriving early to the airport for security and all the bag fees you’d pay to check a bag, you might end up breaking even. Plus, train travel is more sustainable and more scenic.

Do you need reservations with a Eurail Pass?

In some instances, yes. For trains in popular countries like France, Spain, and Italy—especially in the summer—you will need to make an advance seat reservation at an additional cost (generally from around 3 to 10 euros), even if the fare is included with your Eurail Pass. In addition to those popular destinations, all night trains and most international high-speed trains throughout Europe require a supplemental reservation fee.

Some scenic trains, like the Bernina Express in Switzerland, also require one. To find out if you need to make a reservation, search for your desired route on the Eurail Timetable , and the results will show whether or not one is necessary.

Reservation fees vary between different countries and train services and must be paid directly to the railway carriers; payment can be made at the train station, online through the websites of the national railway companies, by phone, or through Eurail’s Rail Planner app. Eurail recommends making train reservations two months in advance during the summer and ahead of holidays to guarantee yourself a seat.

Alternatively, you can opt to ride on regional trains, which don’t require seat reservations. Even though they are slower, if you have the time to stop along the way, you’re likely to discover a few appealing villages you never would have happened upon by taking the high-speed route. To find trains that don’t require reservations, check the “no seat reservations required” box when searching on the Eurail Timetable page.

What European countries does the Eurail Pass cover?

There are currently 33 countries in Europe with rail carriers that accept Eurail Passes. Great Britain’s train operators nearly pulled out of the agreement in August 2019 . After negotiations with the Rail Delivery Group (RDG), which represents the U.K. train industry, travelers will continue to be able to use their Eurail passes within Great Britain.

Here’s the full list of the 33 countries currently serviced by Eurail: Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and Turkey. Download the train route map .

Eurail covers train routes in 33 countries.

How far in advance do you need to buy a Eurail Pass?

You can buy a Eurail Pass up to 11 months in advance of your trip, as long as it is activated at a European train station within that 11-month period. You can also preactivate your pass for a specific date when you check out at Eurail.com to avoid waiting in line at the train station to do so.

In 2020, Eurail launched its first-ever mobile version of the Eurail Pass via its Rail Planner App . Now instead of waiting for the physical document to be delivered in the mail—or constantly worrying about losing it during your trip—you can download the app and load your mobile pass onto it as soon as your order confirmation email lands in your inbox.

Enjoy views like this from the Flam Railway in Norway.

Are Eurail Passes just for college students?

You may have been under the impression that only budget backpackers in their 20s can benefit from Eurail Passes, but the passes are actually available to all age groups. And while previously those 27 and under were the only age group eligible for discounts, in 2019, Eurail also introduced a 10 percent discount for people over the age of 60 , too.

Eurail passes are also great for families. While kids age 3 or younger don’t need a pass to travel, children ages 4 to 11 are eligible for a free Child Pass. Up to two children are allowed to travel for free with one adult. Find out more about family discounts here .

What are other benefits to having a Eurail Pass?

All Eurail Pass–holders are eligible for discounts on select museum tickets and boat tours throughout the entire 33-country network. But one of the major perks of having an unlimited train ticket that includes night trains is the hotel savings. By sleeping on a train, you’ll get from point A to point B and save money on hotels at the same time.

Eurail Passes aren’t only for use on trains either—they can be used on ferries and public transportation in some countries, too. See the full list of participating train, ferry, and public transport companies that accept Eurail Passes on board. In fact, the Greek Islands Pass now offers ferry service to 55 islands, making it a viable option for island-hopping.

T his article originally appeared online in 2019; it was updated most recently on March 29, 2023, to include current information.

The Best Rail Passes in Europe

Make the most of terrific train travel on The Continent

Rail passes can be a great bargain. Back in the 1970s, they were always a good deal. But in the 21st century, you have to plan your trip well to make use of the many types of European rail passes available.

Here's the problem. Think of the rail pass (any of the Eurail offerings) as a big, all-you-can-eat buffet. You can have anything you want, all spread out in front of you. You don't have to know its name in English, you just dig in. Now, if you're hungry and want to get the most for your money, you'll take big, heaping helpings of all the expensive foods that have high value. You'll pass on the salad greens and dig into heaping helpings of c oq au vin  and pappardelle with wild mushrooms.

In rail pass terms, if you spend your time taking long train rides in expensive places like Scandinavia, you'll save a heap of money over buying point-to-point tickets.

On the other hand, if you take short jaunts, one a day, between places that are relatively close, you'll pay dearly. Your pass will have actually cost you more money than buying individual tickets.

It's like you'd bellied up to the buffet for a couple of lettuce leaves and a piece of white bread. You didn't get your money's worth. The owner smiles and pats his wallet. That's how he makes his money.

Rail Pass Benefits

While rail passes aren't as comprehensive as they once were, you'll still derive benefits from having one. Yes, you'll still have to head to the ticket counter to pay supplements for the high-speed trains you might want to take or for seat reservations, but getting on a regular train without going through the hassle of standing in line to buy tickets is a plus. And many passes are useful for other means of transportation as well as trains, so check carefully when you order.

Rail travel is a blast. You'll meet people. You'll get to watch the rugged mountain scenery pass without worrying that you might crash into it. And trains in Europe, for the most part, are fast (or very fast), clean, modern, and, yes, romantic. 

Tthe Best Rail Pass for Your Trip

One thing you can say for sure, most rail passes are best suited for folks who plan their vacations very carefully unless you have enough time and cash to buy the original Eurail pass, which is still being sold and is the first stop on our rail pass tour.

Remember that you can't buy rail passes in Europe; you must purchase them within six months of your vacation and get them validated on your first day of travel.

The  Eurail  Global Pass offers consecutive-day first-class travel in Europe (including Austria,  Belgium , Croatia,  Czech Republic , Denmark, Finland , France,  Germany , Greece, the Netherlands, Hungary , Italy,  Luxembourg , Norway, Portugal, Republic of Ireland, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland) for 5 days or up to 3 months, depending upon the duration you choose. Prices per day decrease with increasing pass duration. You'll still have to pay supplements on high-speed trains, and you'll have to pay for seat reservations if you want them, although first class tends to have more unreserved seats then second in most markets.

The Eurail Select Pass offers unlimited train travel of two, three or four bordering countries connected by train or ship. There is a choice of five to 10-day passes.

(Note that Britain is not included in Eurail passes. Check BritRail for information for rail pass information and prices.)

Multiple Country Rail Passes

If you've narrowed things down to a couple of big countries, your best bet is a multiple country pass from  RailEurope . You have lots of country combos to choose from.

Single Country Rail Passes

A variety of passes for a single country  are available for travelers who have really narrowed down their vacation destination. Prices vary because the rail system in each country has a different fare structure. Plan longer trips to get the best value from your rail pass. (There is no need to get an expensive Eurail pass in Belgium . The national rail network in Belgium has its own cheap pass that allows any number of travelers to share one 10-journey ticket, making each journey cost very little.) 

Discounts for Youths and Seniors

Eurail also offers Youth Passes, with discounts on second-class rail travel for travelers between the ages of 16 and 25. If you're over 60, discounted rates are available for some passes and specific trains. Be sure to check the appropriate box when you check out.

Is a Rail Pass Worth It?

Skeptical that you'll be able to save on your transportation with a rail pass over point to point tickets? Here's a comparison of prices (examples only). Let's use a pass that hasn't been discussed, the Eurail Scandinavian Pass, a Scandinavian rail pass covering four  Scandinavian countries .

In this example, the cheapest Scanrail pass will cost you $291 for five days of first-class travel in two months. A second-class fare for an Oslo-to-Bergen trip will run you between $119 and $140, depending on time and date. The fare between Malmo and Stockholm is $141. In this price example, you'll spend almost the price of your pass in two of your five days, giving you almost three days of free travel with the pass. Not a bad return. And youth passes and  senior passes  are available, allowing that group to save even more.

The bottom line: Price your options (point-to-point tickets or rail passes) after you've planned out your trip based on how many cities and countries you want to travel to over how many days.

Other Rail Pass Pluses

Not all value is monetary. If you don't speak the languages of the countries you're visiting and feel uncomfortable trying to make yourself understood, a rail pass can free you from many of the transactions that you'd have to go through if you decide to buy point-to-point rail tickets. So you don't need to feel guilty if you lose a few dollars on your pass in exchange for relieving yourself of communication responsibility.

The other advantage of a rail pass is that you won't need to carry as much money with you to pay for the various point-to-point tickets you might buy. Remember also that the money you get out of foreign ATMs loses value automatically with the currency exchange . Many credit cards also adjust the price based on the currency exchange, so if you plan to charge your tickets you still could get hit with a higher price than you thought you were paying.

And finally, don't let that rail pass push you around. It's silly to travel long distances to places you probably won't enjoy much just to get more for your money. Vacation is socially sanctioned to give you permission be selfish. Plan on it.

Youth Discounts on the Eurail Pass

Traveling by Train in Europe: Where, Why, and How

About Single Europe Train Tickets

German Rail Map and Transportation Guide

Can I Get a Senior Discount on Rail Passes?

France Railways Map and French Train Travel Information

5 Ways to Find the Cheapest Train Travel

Can a Eurail Pass Save You Money in Eastern Europe?

Train Travel in Morocco

How Eurail Passes Work

Comparing Costs of Rail Travel in Europe

Step-By-Step Budget Tips for a First European Vacation

Planning Your Trip by Rail in Europe

10 Budget Travel Tips for Visiting Venice

How to Travel From Florence to Paris by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

When Should I Buy My Train Tickets for Italy?

TRAVEL EUROPE BY TRAIN

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Starting from:, per person/day * * 2-month youth pass.

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Traveling Europe by Train FAQs

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Explore Europe

From portugal to poland and beyond, get inspired with our insider information on 33 european countries, including top festivals events, “best time to go” weather recommendations, and maps., “i had my first taste of world travel thanks to a eurail pass. there’s nothing like the ease and freedom of exploring europe by train. it’s my hope that this website—and our lowest price available guarantee—enables great rail adventures for you.”.

Mike Fuller, President and CEO, RailPass.com

Single Country Passes

Eurail Austria Pass

Eurail Benelux Pass

Eurail Bulgaria Pass

Eurail Croatia Pass

Eurail Czech Republic Pass

Eurail Denmark Pass

Eurail Finland Pass

Eurail France Pass

Eurail Germany Pass

Eurail Greece Pass

Eurail Hungary Pass

Eurail Ireland Pass

Eurail Italy Pass

Eurail Lithuania Pass

Eurail Macedonia Pass

Eurail Norway Pass

Eurail Poland Pass

Eurail Portugal Pass

Eurail Romania Pass

Eurail Scandinavia Pass

Eurail Slovakia Pass

Eurail Slovenia Pass

Eurail Spain Pass

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Eurail Turkey Pass

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Before we start, which of Europe's two great railpass ranges applies to you?

Introducing Eurail passes

Eurail is the railpass range for overseas visitors, giving unlimited train travel across most of Europe with a Eurail global pass, or in the country of your choice with a Eurail single-country pass.  This page talks you through buying & using a pass, and whether a pass or point-to-point tickets is best.

Useful train travel information

Trains, buses, flights or hire car .

Whether you use a Eurail pass or buy point-to-point tickets, the train is the best way to tour Europe, relaxed, in comfort, seeing a lot in a short time.  It's not just transportation, train travel is part of the European way of life, the journeys are an experience and in some cases a highlight of your trip.  A Eurail pass gives you freedom & flexibility, or you can buy cheap point-to-point train tickets by booking in advance, just as you would with a budget airline.

Things to consider

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What is a Eurail pass ?

Eurail is the brand name for the range of railpasses offered to overseas visitors giving unlimited travel on trains run by the national rail operators and various other train operators in 33 European countries, see the list of participating countries below or see the Eurail map .

Eurail is not a train operator and there no special 'Eurail' trains.  You use the regular scheduled trains run by the participating train operators, the same trains we Europeans travel on.

The participating train operators have set up a small Eurail management company to manage both the Eurail & Interrail schemes, based in Utrecht in the Netherlands.  They run the official Eurail website www.eurail.com .  As it happens, I've been there to discuss scheme improvements with them, nice people!

You can choose a pass giving unlimited travel for various periods of time on the national rail networks of all 33 participating countries (Eurail global pass) or just one of those countries (Eurail one-country pass).   The different types of Eurail pass are explained here .

On many trains you can just hop on and show your pass, but on many long-distance & high-speed trains others you must pay a small fee to make a seat reservation.  You also need to pay for for sleeping berths on overnight trains.  The cost of reservations and how to make them is shown on the Eurail & Interrail reservations page .

To understand how Eurail passes work, which trains they cover and how reservations work, see how a Eurail pass works . 

There are a handful of other railpasses worth knowing about as they are sometimes better value than Eurail, for example the Swiss Pass, Trenitalia Pass & Renfe Spain Pass.  These non-Eurail passes are explained here .

Who qualifies for a Eurail pass?

You can buy a Eurail pass if you are resident outside Europe, for example in the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Asia or Africa.

If you live in Europe or in Turkey, Russian Federation, Morocco, Algeria or Tunisia you cannot buy a Eurail pass, you qualify for the Interrail pass range instead.  Interrail passes cover exactly the same countries & trains as Eurail, with the same fees for the same reservations, so an American and a British traveller can easily travel together, one using a Eurail pass, the other an Interrail pass.

Over recent years Eurail passes for overseas visitors and Interrail passes for European residents have converged.  Pass types & prices are now identical.  The way the Eurail & Interrail passes operate in terms of trains covered and the need for (and cost of) reservations is identical.

Which countries participate in Eurail ?

The countries participating in the Eurail pass scheme are:

Austria, Belgium, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia (new from 2020), Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia (new from 2020), Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey & (new in 2019) the United Kingdom. 

Eurail does not cover Albania, Ukraine, Belarus, Russia or Moldova.

Map of countries participating in the Eurail scheme .

Eurail pass types explained

It's quite simple:  There are One-country or Global Eurail passes, in 1st or 2nd class, for each age group, adult, youth, senior & child.

Who's going?

Where are you going, how long for.

You can buy Eurail passes giving unlimited train travel for various periods of time.  You need to get your head around two different concepts:

Continuous passes give unlimited travel every day for a continuous period of time, either 15 days, 22 days or 1, 2 or 3 months, starting on any date you like.  These give the ultimate in freedom and flexibility, but to make them worthwhile you need to be on a train every day or two.

Flexi passes are more economical if you plan to stay put for a number of days between travelling.  You can buy a Flexi pass giving 4, 5 or 7 days travel within an overall 1 month period, or giving 10 or 15 days travel within an overall 2 month period.

It's best explained with an example:  In February, you buy a 5-days-in-1-month pass.  There's no need to decide on travel dates when you buy it, you can activate it any date in the following 11 months.  Later, you decide you'll use the first of your 5 travel days on 10 July.  You activate the pass on 10 July, giving unlimited travel from midnight to midnight that day.  The overall 1 month period starts ticking, you can now 'spend' each of the remaining 4 travel days on any dates you like between 10 July & 9 August.  You could use them on the 12 July, 24 July, 2 August & 9 August or whatever, activating each travel date as you need it - no need to decide in advance.  Got it?

1st or 2nd class?

You can choose 1st or 2nd class with any pass type.

2nd class is absolutely fine, it's the way we Europeans normally travel, unless the Company is paying!  Many local trains are 2nd class only, and on many sleeper trains you can access all accommodation types (even deluxe sleepers with toilet & shower) with only a 2nd class pass plus the relevant sleeper supplement.

But 1st class seating is available on most longer-distance trains and if you can afford it, 1st class is obviously nicer, with wider, plusher seats, more legroom.  In 1st class there are usually more businessmen tapping on laptops and fewer families with kids.  Don't assume 1st class gets you any food or drink or free limo transfers or complimentary massages, this is not an airline.  Your default assumption should be that 2nd class seating is nice, 1st class seating is nicer, and it's normally just the nicer seating with fewer people per car that you're paying for when you go 1st class.  Sometimes a 1st class pass will get you into a first class lounge at a station , but more often than not it won't.

What's the difference between 1st & 2nd class?   That may help you decide!

Other railpasses

As well as the large and well-known Eurail pass range, several countries do their own non-Eurail pass, which can be worth checking.  This includes the Swiss Travel Pass for Switzerland (as there is no one-country Eurail pass for that country), the Renfe Spain Pass which is worth considering as a better bet than the Eurail one-country pass for Spain.  I've summed these passes up here .

Eurail pass prices

They're priced in euros, but you can buy in your own currency.  You can check prices and buy online at the Eurail website www.eurail.com or at www.raileurope.com .  As I write this, 1 USD = €0.88, 1 AUD = €0.61.  Check current exchange rates .

You can check one-country pass prices at www.eurail.com or www.raileurope.com

How to buy a eurail pass, hard-copy pass or mobile pass, is eurail cheaper than point-to-point tickets .

There's no magic answer

Why?  Because in the 21st century, European point-to-point train fares vary like air fares, cheap in advance, expensive at short notice or on popular days or dates.  Just like flights!

The cost of a Eurail pass also varies, depending whether it's adult, senior or youth, and whether it's for a shorter or longer period.  Longer period passes are better value as the cost-per-day is lower.

The only way to know for sure is to go online and check current point-to-point prices for your specific dates for each journey you plan to make, add them up and compare to the price of a Eurail pass , remembering to factor in the cost of any necessary passholder reservation fees .

You can check point-to-point prices by selecting the starting city here , I'll tell you which website to use to check fares for that specific route.

But it's not all about price, it's also about flexibility .  This example may help:

How much is a point-to-point ticket?

Assume you plan to go from Prague to Berlin:

- €18.90 is the cheapest possible advance-purchase fare, price varies like air fares, specified train only, no changes, no refunds.

- €82.50 is the fully-flexible fare which can be bought on the day, unlimited availability, good for any train.

Assume that a few days later you plan to go from Berlin to Amsterdam:

- €37.90 is the cheapest possible advance-purchase fare, price varies like air fares, specified train only, no changes, no refunds.

- €139.90 is the fully-flexible fare which can be bought on the day, unlimited availability, good for any train.

How much is a Eurail pass?

If you divide the pass cost by the number of days travel, you get a cost-per-day.  The longer the pass duration, the cheaper the cost-per-day:

- €64 per day using a 5-days-in-1-month Eurail global pass (5-day price divided by 5)

- €45 per day using a 10-days-in-2-months Eurail global pass (10-day price divided by 10)

Or if you're aged under 28 and can buy a youth pass:

- €48 per day using a 5-days-in-1-month youth Eurail global pass.

- €34 per day using a 10-days-in-2-months youth Eurail global pass.

A pass gives you unlimited travel, so you can use any train you like, as if you'd bought the fully-flexible ticket.  Better, as you could go up & down on trains between Prague & Berlin all day if you wanted, or carry on beyond Berlin to Cologne or Hamburg.

So is a pass cheaper?

No, point-to-point advance-purchase tickets are cheaper, it's not a trick question!  Prague-Berlin from €18.90, Berlin-Amsterdam from €37.90.

And easiest too, easy to buy online at the German Railways website and show on your phone.  Click, click, booked!

So if you're only planning 2, 3 or maybe 4 such trips on fixed dates, your accommodation is pre-booked and you're happy to commit to specific trains 2-3 months in advance on a no-refunds, no-changes basis, then advance-purchase tickets are usually cheapest & easiest.

But at short notice or on popular dates, a pass might save money

Remember these are the cheapest possible advance-purchase fares.  On your date, prices may be higher, especially at popular times of year.  And if you need to go tomorrow or next week so cannot book months in advance, a pass can be cheaper than short-notice point-to-point fares.

A Eurail pass makes sense if you value flexibility

Even when it costs more than advance-purchase tickets, a pass may still make sense because it is flexible .  It's significantly cheaper than the fully-flexible fare for most longer-distance journeys.

With an advance-purchase ticket you're nailing your plans to the floor months in advance.  Trading up to a pass gives you the freedom to travel when you want, or even decide not to go to Prague after all, but to Vienna instead.  A Eurail pass gives unlimited travel all day, so you can make additional journeys the same day, before or after this one.

For extensive itineraries, a pass is better

For extensive itineraries, using a stack of advance-purchase point-to-point tickets might be cheaper, but it's risky.  If a flood, fire, strike or landslide knocked out one journey, the rest of the trip could come crashing down like a house of cards as advance-purchase tickets become worthless if you miss the train.  A Eurail pass gives you the flexibility to re-plan, re-schedule or even re-route as necessary.

Mrs 61 and I once travelled from my in-laws in the Netherlands to Italy using passes.  The day before our return, a train crash in Belgium blocked our planned route, Milan-Paris-Rotterdam.  But with our passes we easily re-routed via Milan-Zurich-Cologne-Rotterdam.

But avoid using use a pass for short hops

Vienna to Bratislava costs only €11 or so, Florence to Pisa only €9, even bought on the day.

It'd be cheaper to buy a 4-days-in-1-month pass plus a point-to-point ticket for a short hop like this, than to pay an extra €50 for a 5-days-in-1-month pass.  Common sense, surely?

Remember to factor in the passholder reservation fees

The point-to-point fares you see online always include any necessary reservation.  If you use a pass, you may have to pay a reservation fee in addition to the cost of the pass.  Here's a rule of thumb:

In France, Italy, Spain, reckon on a €10+ reservation fee for every train other than purely local ones, in addition to the cost of the pass.

However, in Benelux, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Denmark & most of eastern & central Europe, there are usually no fees to pay (unless you want a sleeping berth), you can just board a train, sit in any empty unreserved seat, and show your pass to the conductor.  That's a generalisation, but even if a seat reservation is required in these countries it's typically €2 - €5, the same as any other ticket-holder would pay.

The Prague-Berlin & Amsterdam-Berlin examples above usually involve no reservation fee, unless you choose to reserve a seat.

You need to pay a passholder fare to use Eurostar between London & Paris, Lille, Brussels or Amsterdam.  This costs €30 in 2nd class or €38 if you have a 1st class pass, see Eurostar passholder information .

On overnight sleeper trains you need to pay for a sleeping-berth, perhaps €39 for a couchette or €100 for a bed in a 2-bed sleeper.

See a list of Eurail reservation requirements & costs in each country .

My advice, without doing the maths

You must decide if you want freedom & flexibility, or are happy to commit to specific trains well in advance.  It's a 4-way decision:

(1)  Buy a Eurail pass for unlimited flexible travel, remembering that a reservation fee must be paid for certain trains;

(2)  Buy full-flex point-to-point tickets as you go - cheap for short hops, expensive for longer distances;

(3)  Buy cheap advance-purchase tickets direct from the operator, limited or no refunds or changes to travel plans allowed;

(4)  Mix & match these options:  Combine a Eurail pass with regular tickets for short hops or pre-planned longer journeys.

It's risky to generalise, but I'll have a go, for those without the patience to do the maths.

For a few short train rides

Don't buy a pass!  Nice to Cannes is €5, Florence to Pisa €9.  A railpass is overkill for a few short local journeys.  Obvious, I hope.

For 2, 3 or even 4 long train rides where your dates are known & fixed

Don't buy a pass!  If you can book 2-3 months ahead, have a fixed itinerary with all your accommodation pre-booked, the cheapest option is to commit to specific trains on a no-refunds-no-changes-to-travel-plans basis using advance-purchase point-to-point tickets bought direct from the relevant operator, following my route-specific advice here .

If you don't really need the unlimited train rides, unlimited distance and unlimited flexibility of a pass, you can save a lot of money this way.

Just remember that if you need to travel tomorrow with all the advance fares sold out, a pass could still be cheaper.

Overseas travel agents often don't know about these cheap advance-purchase train fares, and overseas agency sites often can't access the cheap fares for every route.  For example, the ONLY website that can sell those €21 tickets from Prague to Budapest is the official Czech Railways website - I say again, follow my route-specific advice here !

For a few long train rides where you DON'T want to nail your plans to the floor

Cheap advance-purchase tickets commit you to specific dates & trains with limited or no changes to travel plans allowed.  A pass may well save money over longer-distance full-flex fares bought at the station, if you travel far enough each day, even if it costs more than cheap advance-purchase fares.

For an extensive itinerary with many train rides covering several weeks

For a longer trip, say several weeks exploring every major city in Europe or a very long journey such as London to Istanbul, I'd buy a railpass even if advance-purchase fares were cheaper.  A Eurail pass allows you to flex your dates, trains and routes as necessary.

If you're under 28 years old, consider a pass

The youth Eurail pass compares well with even the cheapest advance-purchase fares.  For one or two or three specific journeys, I'd still buy advance-purchase tickets, but for anything more than that consider the pass.  Even if it costs a few euros more, the extra flexibility is worth it, giving you the ability to change your mind or divert via another route or train if something goes wrong with one leg of the itinerary.  Incidentally, the age limit for Youth passes changed in 2017, anyone under 28 now qualifies for a youth pass, previously it was under 26.

If you've kids under 12, consider a pass

The free Eurail passes for children under 12 may swing the balance towards buying a pass, even for a pre-planned itinerary.  Now you really have to do the maths, as shown in the next section.

You can mix-and-match a pass with point-to-point tickets

For example, for 11 days of train travel in Europe, it's cheaper to buy a 10-day Eurail pass plus one point-to-point ticket for the shortest/cheapest of all your train rides, than to buy the next size up, a 15-day pass.  Or if the start of your trip is known and fixed, but you want to stay flexible for the rest, you could buy a cheap ticket for the first journey or two, then use a railpass.  And if your plan includes a few short local hops, use point-to-point tickets for those, and buy a cheaper pass with fewer unlimited travel days to cover the longer journeys.

Perhaps you came to this page thinking that railpasses save money , but these days they often don't.  It's more accurate to think of them as trading up to affordable go-as-you-please flexibility.  Stands to reason, really.  A pass giving unlimited flexible travel all over Europe ought to cost more than a cheap budget ticket for a specific route & train booked two months in advance.

Typical Eurail pass example:  Rome - Florence - Venice

Typical eurail pass example:  berlin - prague - vienna - budapest, typical eurail pass example:  london - paris - brussels - amsterdam, how does a eurail pass work, when do you need a reservation .

Local, regional & suburban trains

In virtually all countries, you can just hop on any local, regional or suburban train at any time, sit in any empty seat and show your Eurail pass to the conductor when asked.  Easy!

Pass-friendly countries

Ireland, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Denmark & most of central & eastern Europe .

In these countries, seat reservation even on long-distance trains is usually optional and there's nothing extra to pay unless you want a reserved seat, or couchette or sleeper on an overnight train .

You can just hop on any train without a reservation, sit in any unreserved empty seat, and show your Eurail pass when asked by the conductor - even premier high-speed trains like Germany's superb ICE or Austria's excellent railjet trains .  Trains cannot 'sell out'.

If you want a reserved seat (a sensible move for a long journey to having to stand at busy times) it only costs €3-€4.50.  Passes retain their 'hop on, hop off' convenience factor for travel in and between these countries.

The key exceptions are as follows :  International journeys to or from France or Italy require compulsory seat reservation with a fee to pay.  Eurostar (formerly Thalys) high-speed trains between Brussels & Amsterdam and Brussels & Cologne have compulsory reservation & a fee for passholders.  A few scenic tourist trains in Switzerland require a seat reservation/supplement, such as the Glacier Express & Bernina Express .  Poland, Slovakia, Hungary & Romania require seat reservations on all their inter-city trains, but these are just normal seat reservations costing €1-€3, no big deal.  All this is explained in the country-by-country guide .

Pass unfriendly countries

France, Italy, Spain, Portugal & Sweden

In these countries, passholders must make a reservation and pay a fee for almost every inter-city journey, including international journeys starting or ending in these countries.

Reckon on paying €10 for every train ride in these countries, sometimes less, sometimes more.  On French TGV s it's €10 (limited quota) or €20 when the €10 places sell out.  Eurostar (formerly Thalys) Paris-Brussels-Amsterdam is €15-€25. TGV-Lyria €30-€70, Paris-Milan TGV €31, Paris-Barcelona TGV €34.

There are limited quotas for passholder places on Paris-Brussels-Amsterdam Eurostar (formerly Thalys) , Paris-Turin-Milan TGVs & Paris-Barcelona TGVs which can sell out if you don't reserve seats soon enough, but for other trains including French domestic TGVs , TGV-Lyria and Spanish or Italian high-speed trains, passholders can always get seats unless the train is physically full, which might happen at Christmas or Easter or on a busy Friday afternoons, but generally there's always places available.

See the country-by-country reservations guide to see which trains need a reservation, what it costs, and how to make it.

Sleeper trains

You'll need to make a reservation & pay the appropriate fee for a sleeper or couchette on overnight trains, typically perhaps €34 for a couchette or €94 for a bed in a 2-bed sleeper, less than this in eastern Europe.  Remember that with a flexi type pass, an overnight train only uses one pass day, the date of departure, see the explanation here .  See the country-by-country guide for costs for specific sleeper routes .

Can you avoid having to reserve?

Overnight trains.

Seat from €14, couchette in 6-berth €34, couchette in 4-berth €44, bed in 3-berth sleeper €54, bed in 2-berth sleeper €74, bed in single-berth sleeper €114, berth in 2-berth deluxe sleeper €94, berth in single-berth deluxe sleeper €134.

Berth fees for specific routes are listed in the Eurail pass reservation guide .

Using a pass on a sleeper train

If you have a flexi-type pass, an overnight train only uses one day on your pass, the day of departure.  Here is the new rule, which replaced the old 'After 19:00' rule in January 2019:

A Flexi pass day normally runs from midnight to midnight.  But if you board any overnight train before midnight, and do not change trains after midnight , you only need to use one day on a Flexi pass, the day of departure .

It no longer matters what time your sleeper train leaves on day 1, or what time it arrives on day 2.  The date you enter on your pass is that of day 1.  As normal, you get unlimited travel from midnight to midnight on day 1, so can take other trains on day 1 in addition to the sleeper train, all on the same pass day.  You can then continue your journey on that direct overnight train until you get off at your destination on Day 2.  The only proviso is that you cannot change trains after midnight , and that both the departure day and arrival day must fall within the overall validity period of the pass.

For example, if you wanted to take the Dacia Express leaving Vienna at 19: 42 on the 1st August and arriving Bucharest at 16:06 on the 2nd August, you'd use 1st August as one of your unlimited travel days, this covers the whole of the sleeper journey, even the part on 2nd August - in this example well into in the afternoon.

This gives you unlimited travel all day on 1st August, so it would also cover any other journeys you wanted to make on that day, for example a preceding journey from Prague to Vienna to connect with the sleeper.

On the other hand, if you wanted to take an onward train from Bucharest to Constanta on 2nd August after getting off the sleeper, that means using up another travel day, this time dated 2nd August.

How to use a mobile pass

Step 8, show your pass to the conductor

When a conductor comes along, open the app, click on My pass , pass details appear.  Click on Show ticket , the pass QR code appears.  The conductor will scan the QR code.  Most of the time, that's it.

You can buy passes for multiple people in one transaction, for example for your family, partner or group of friends.  You'll get a separate pass number for each person.

One option is to give each person their own pass number so they can load their own pass on to their own phone and use it independently as explained above.  You should use this option if there is any chance that people may want to split up and head off on their own.

The other option is for you to be 'group leader' and manage all the pass stuff on behalf of everyone else, by loading multiple passes onto one phone.  Just remember that you won't then be able to split up as all the passes will be one one phone.  This cannot be changed afterwards without help from the Eurail Support Team .

How to use a hard-copy pass

To make it clear, Brussels to Nuremberg with a change in Frankfurt requires two separate entries, Brussels-Frankfurt and Frankfurt-Nuremberg.  However, if a conductor found you had made only one entry, Brussels to Nuremberg, they should point it out (and maybe ask you to change it) but that's all.

How to make reservations

'pass' and 'reservations' are totally separate.

This often confuses people, so listen up:  The process of (1) loading, activating and using your Eurail pass, and (2) making seat or berth reservations on particular trains, are two different, separate, entirely unconnected things.  One does not affect the other, in any way whatsoever .

So finding a train in the Rail Planner app, adding it to your 'trip' then adding it to your pass does not 'book' the train or reserve seats on it.  All it does is render the pass valid for it, an electronic record that helps Eurail management allocate pass revenue between operators.

Conversely, making a seat or berth reservation on a particular train does not in any way activate your pass, or use up a day on your pass, or commit you to using the pass on that train or date.  If you have to enter your pass number when reserving, that's only to stop people without a pass making a reservation, it does not affect, trigger or use up your pass.  Passes & reservations are entirely unconnected .

Option 1, online at the train operator's website

If it's possible - unfortunately, it seldom is - making reservations at the train operator's own site is ideal as you pay no added booking fee & you get a wide choice of seating options and occasionally seat selection from seat map.

Unfortunately, most train operator websites don't sell passholder reservations, only normal tickets.  Eurostar, SNCF (French Railways) & Trenitalia all used to sell passholder reservations, but stopped because it was abused by fare-evaders without a pass.

Operators that can sell passholder reservations on their websites include:

- ÖBB (Austrian Railways) at www.oebb.at , which sells passholder reservations for Nightjet sleeper trains , Nightjet partner sleeper trains, and Vienna-Italy railjet trains .

- SJ (Swedish Railways) at www.sj.se , which sells passholder reservations for Swedish domestic trains and Copenhagen-Stockholm, Stockholm-Oslo international trains.

There are also routes where trains are reservation optional , where passholders don't have to pay a special passholder reservation fee, just make a normal seat reservation if they want one like any other ticket-holder.  Some operators allow reservation-only bookings to be made on their website for anyone with an existing ticket, including a pass:

- The DB (German Railways) website int.bahn.de can do 'seat-only' bookings for German domestic trains and international trains between Germany & Amsterdam, Brussels, Prague or Switzerland, with specific seat selection on key routes.  Passholders can use this facility.

- The ÖBB (Austrian Railways) website www.oebb.at can do 'seat only' bookings on trains between Austria & Prague, Budapest, Germany or Switzerland, sometimes with seat selection.  Passholders can use this too.

- The Czech Railways website www.cd.cz can do 'seat-only' bookings for many routes out of Prague, often with specific seat selection.  Isn't it great being able to choose your seats from a plan?

Option 2, online using the Eurail reservation service

If you can't book online direct with the train operator, the next best thing is to book online using the official Eurail reservations service.

You need to buy a pass before you can access this service, as a pass number is required even to run enquiries.

There's a booking fee of €2 per reservation in addition to the reservation fee.  The prices shown include the booking fee.

One downside, you aren't offered any seating choice, not even 'aisle' or 'window', you basically have to take what the system gives you.

How to use it:   Go to www.eurail.com , click Seat reservations at the top, yes you have a pass, no you don't have an account, create an account, enter your pass number.  Now you can use the reservation system journey planner to bring up train departures for the route you want.

You'll see the abbreviation IRT a lot.  This stands for Integrated Reservation Ticket , and simply means it's a ticket combined with a compulsory seat reservation (the way France, Italy, Spain do ticketing), as opposed to a stand-alone optional seat reservation designed to go with a separate travel ticket (the way Germany, Austria, Switzerland usually do ticketing.  A distinction too subtle to concern most travellers!

Trains it can book, with an e-ticket:   Reservations shown as e-ticket are automated and usually emailed to you within minutes.

Reservations can be made until 3 hours before departure, you can use their mobile website if you're already on the move.

For example, the system can e-ticket passholder reservations for Eurostar , domestic trains in France ( TGVs , Intercités, Intercités de Nuit couchettes ), Paris-Turin-Milan TGVs , Paris-Brussels-Amsterdam/Cologne Eurostar (formerly Thalys) , Paris-Switzerland TGV-Lyria , Paris-Germany ICE & TGV .  Domestic trains in Italy ( Frecciarossa , Frecciargento , Frecciabianca, Intercity , ICN sleeper trains ), Switzerland-Italy EuroCity trains .  Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 trains .  It will also book optional seat reservations in countries such as Germany or Austria, but you can make those without any added fee using the train operator's own website.

Trains it can book, with a paper ticket that has to be posted to you:   Reservations shown as paper ticket have to be posted to you for an extra fee (perhaps €10 with tracking).  Tickets may take 2 or more weeks to arrive, so allow plenty of time.

For example, the system has to send paper tickets for Paris-Barcelona TGVs, Lyon/Marseille-Barcelona AVEs, Prague-Krakow trains, Budapest-Bucharest daytime & sleeper trains, Berlin-Warsaw & Berlin-Krakow EuroCity trains, Norwegian trains.

Trains it can't book:   The system cannot currently book Spanish or Portuguese domestic trains, or trains in the UK, Ireland, Finland, Serbia, Bosnia, Montenegro, Bulgaria, Greece, Turkey.  It also can't book Nightjet sleeper trains or Venice-Vienna railjets (but www.oebb.at can book these).  It only seems to offer 2nd class reservations on the Munich-Italy Brenner EuroCity trains.  In France, it can't book some trains run by the regions, such as Paris-Cherbourg.

Option 3, online at b-europe.com

Tip:   If you have a mobile pass and it won't accept your mobile pass number, simply generate a pass cover number from your mobile pass number using this special page: www.eurail.com/en/book-reservations#/generatePassCoverNumber .

Option 4, in person at the station

The rail planner app, other passes worth knowing about.

Eurail is the main pass range for overseas visitors to Europe, but several countries also have their own national railpasses which can be worth knowing about as they can often be better value if you are just visiting that specific country.

You can check Swiss Pass prices & buy a Swiss Pass at www.switzerlandtravelcentre.com - prices in CHF, USD, GBP or Euros and you simply print out your own pass.

Timetable & map

T he European Rail Map of Europe is easily the best and most comprehensive map of train routes all over Europe.  High speed and scenic routes are highlighted - well worth buying to go with your rail pass!  Buy online at www.europeanrailtimetable.eu (with worldwide delivery).  There are other maps & even two good European Rail Atlases, see here .

The all-Europe online timetable:   You can check train times for almost any European train journey online at int.bahn.de .  This is an extremely useful resource for trip planning, provided by the German Railways.

Recommended guidebooks

Click the images to buy online at amazon.com (usa) or buy from amazon.co.uk (uk), hotels & accommodation, tips for booking hotels in europe.

Location, location, location:   For a night between trains, I'd pick a decent hotel near the station.  For a longer stay, I'd want to be close to the sights, for example if we're talking somewhere like Prague, I'd want a hotel right in the old town.  That sometimes costs more, but you see more - if you're right there, you can wander out again after dinner, for example.  In a cheaper hotel 3 miles out, you probably wouldn't.

Hotels will almost always look after your bags for free if you need to check out and catch an afternoon or evening train, or if you arrive in the morning before you can check in to your room.

Backpacker hostels

www.hostelworld.com :  If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels.  Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in Paris and most other European cities at rock-bottom prices.

Travel insurance & other tips

Always take out travel insurance.

You should take out travel insurance with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover from a reliable insurer.  It should cover trip cancellation and loss of cash & belongings up to a reasonable limit.  These days, check you're covered for covid-19-related issues, and use an insurer whose cover isn't invalidated by well-meant but excessive Foreign Office travel advice against non-essential travel. An annual policy is usually cheapest even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself.  Don't expect travel insurance to bail you out of every missed connection, see the advice on missed connections here .  Here are some suggested insurers, I get a little commission if you buy through these links, feedback always welcome.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a European mobile data package and stay connected.  Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list .  There's no need to buy a physical SIM card!  Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate then add a foreign transaction fee on top.  A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month as I write this.  The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.  And you can get a Curve card for free.

How it works:   1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android .  2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses.  3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card.  4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app.  You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader.  The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than getting a card out).  I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great.  See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing.  Why you need a VPN

When travelling you may use free public WiFi which is often insecure.  A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi.  It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply.  See VPNs & why you need one explained .  ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using this link you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription.  I also get some commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, hotel bookings and Interrail or Eurail passes are often now held on your mobile phone.  You daren't let it run out of power, and you can't always rely on the phone's internal battery or on being near a power outlet.  I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over.  Buy from Amazon.co.uk or Buy from Amazon.com .

Touring cities?  Use hill walking shoes!

One of the best things I've done is swap my normal shoes for hill-walking shoes, in my case from Scarpa.  They're intended for hiking across the Pennines not wandering around Florence, but the support and cushioning for hiking works equally well when you're on your feet all day exploring foreign cities.  My feet used to give out first and limit my day, now the rest of me gives up before they do!

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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Eurail pass guide | the ultimate rail pass guide for train travel in europe.

Let's take a look at everything you need to know about using an Eurail Pass to travel Europe by train.

Transportation

Traveling through Europe with a Eurail Pass is a tradition that stretches back to the 1960s and it’s still going strong today—it’s how I traveled on my first trip to Europe in 2006. In many cases, a Eurail rail pass is an affordable and flexible way to travel Europe but a rail pass is not always the best option for all travelers.

In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about the Eurail Pass — including who should buy it, who should skip it, what quirks to look out for, and strategies for maximizing the value of your rail pass.

What Is A Eurail Pass?

The Eurail Pass is an all-in-one pass that allows unlimited train travel on almost any train (including high-speed trains) covering 33 European countries:

• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom

Other than a few exceptions, this rail pass lets you simply hop on any train just by showing your pass (a few train routes require that you reserve a seat for an extra fee — I’ll cover this later).

The beauty of a Eurail Pass is its flexibility since allows you to travel with little/no pre-planning — you can choose where to travel at a moment’s notice. If you’re not digging a city, you can jump on a train and go somewhere else. Or maybe you met some cool people and they’re going somewhere new, you can tag along without paying for an expensive last-minute ticket.

Eurail Passes are only sold outside of Europe and they’ll only ship passes to non-European countries — so you MUST buy them before you arrive. UPDATE: Eurail now sells a digital mobile pass that is sent directly to an app on your smartphone so you can technically buy it from anywhere. I recommend buying your rail pass directly from Eurail.com

Types Of Eurail Passes

In 2019 Eurail simplified its rail pass options and now they have two main kinds of passes — Global and Single-Country:

Global Eurail Pass

The Global Eurail Pass is valid in all 33 participating countries and it comes in two different pass options that I’ve outlined below:

Global Continuous Pass

The Global Continuous Pass gives you unlimited travel within the length of the pass. For example, the One Month Continuous Pass gives you 30 days of unlimited travel starting on the first day you use your pass.

• Two consecutive months
• Three consecutive months

Global Flexi Pass

The Global Flexi Pass gives you a specific number of travel days to any Eurail participant country within a one or two-month period. For example, the 10 travel days within two months pass gives you 10 individual travel days within a two-month window.

• Five travel days within one month
• Four travel days within one month
• Seven travel days within one month
• 10 travel days within two months
• 15 travel days within two months

Check Eurail.com for the prices and details.

Single Country Eurail Pass

The Single Country Eurail Pass is just as it sounds — you get a single pass that allows you to travel within a single country for 3, 4, 5, 6, or 8 travel days within 1 month.

There are a few countries that don’t have a Single Country Pass:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina

Check out Eurail.com to get the prices.

Eurail Pass Prices

Each Eurail Pass is priced differently based on age:

• Youth : Anyone under 28 on the first day the pass is activated.
• Adult : Anyone 28 to 60.
• Senio r: Anyone aged over 60 on the first day the pass is activated.

Note: Eurail.com often has sales so the prices could be a little cheaper than those shown below.

Eurail Global Continuous Pass Price

Eurail global flexi pass price, eurail single-country pass price.

The Single Country Rail Pass allows you to travel within a single country for 3, 4, 5, 6, or 8 travel days within 1 month. The prices are different for every country so check out Eurail.com to get the prices — but here are a few of the most popular countries.

Visit Eurail.com to see all the other One Country rail passes.

First-Class vs Second-Class Rail Passes

Second-class tickets are the standard train tickets — second-class is very comfortable so there is no need to upgrade to first unless you have money to burn.

First-class tickets are around 30%-40% more expensive than second-class tickets. In first-class, you’ll get larger seats and more legroom. It’s also generally quieter. You might get free drinks or some basic snacks on the train.

You’ll also get access to the train station’s First Class lounge (if there is one) and which typically provides free food and drink (including alcoholic beverages).

High-Speed Trains & Seat Reservations For Eurail Pass Holders

Many high-speed trains require rail pass holders to pay an extra fee for a seat reservation—which is typically around €10 but can be as high as €40. And some trains limit the number of rail pass riders so this is where the Eurail pass loses its value.

What Countries Require A Train Reservation?

All Thalys high-speed trains (which notably travel between Amsterdam and Paris) require a reservation, and all high-speed trains in France, Italy, Spain, Sweden, and Portugal require reservations. You’ll also need to make a reservation on the Eurostar train that runs from Londo to Paris (and beyond).

You can make reservations for trains in other countries but they’re not required.

How Much Do Seat Reservations Cost?

Most reservations cost around €5-€10 but on some lines can cost as much as €35+.

How Do You Know If You Need a Reservation?

It’s easy. You can use the Eurail Rail Planner App and it will tell you what trains need a reservation. You can also visit Bahn.com and then enter your travel date/time. To the right, you’ll see an “R” symbol if that train requires a reservation (see the image below).

How Do You Make A Seat Reservation?

You can make reservations at just about any train station. Just go to the ticket window and tell them when and what train you want (they’ll need the time and date).

When made at the train station, reservations can be booked months in advance or up to around an hour before the train departs — I recommend making reservations a few days in advance so you don’t have to deal with it at the last minute (you never know how long the ticket line at the service window might be).

You can also make a reservation online via Eurail.com and their Eurail Rail Planner app, however, there are a few considerations:

• E-ticket reservations can be booked up to 3 hours before the train’s departure. 
• Paper ticket reservations have to be booked at least 6 days before the train’s departure. 

Note: Some trains (notably in France) have a limited number of reservations available for riders using rail passes. It is smart to make your reservations in advance to ensure you get your desired journey.

How To Buy Eurail Passes

Eurail passes now come in either a paper ticket or the new digital ticket (introduced in 2020) — both are sold directly from Eurail.com

How To Buy A Paper Eurail Pass

IMPORTANT: Physical paper Eurail passes are not sold within Europe (they won’t even ship them to a European address).

Don’t forget that physical paper passes need to be shipped to you — which takes approximately 2 weeks for economy shipping and one week for premium shipping. Buy it from Eurail.com .

How To Buy A Digital Mobile Eurail Pass

One great thing about the digital mobile ticket is that you can buy it even if you’re already in Europe and you don’t have to wait for delivery. Buy it from Eurail.com .

NOTE: The mobile pass is good for any global pass but there are a few countries on the Single Country pass that don’t accept the mobile pass (Estonia, Greek Islands, Great Britain, Ireland, Latvia, and North Macedonia).

Is The Eurail Pass A Good Deal? A Quick Overview

The Eurail Pass can be a good deal depending on your travel style but it’s not always the cheapest way to travel Europe by train.

On the other hand, a big draw of the Eurail pass is the convenience factor. So here are the broad strokes in determining if a rail pass is right for you:

For last-minute travel with medium/long-distance routes: A rail pass is often a good deal.

A rail pass can be a great deal if you’re traveling spur-of-the-moment and typically going medium and long distances (like hopping between big cities). That’s because (in many cases) long-distance trains are cheaper when booked early but get very expensive when booked last minute.

You’re under 28: A Rail Pass is often a good deal.

The Youth pass gives you a nice discount and this makes the rail pass an attractive option. You might be able to spend less overall if you book single tickets in advance but the difference is often minimal — personally, I think the convenience of the pass is worth the minimal extra expense.

Your plans are fixed and you can book tickets early: Point-to-point is cheaper.

If your plans are set and you can book your tickets around two months early then it’s virtually always cheaper to buy point-to-point tickets. Even being able to book a week or two before departure can give considerable savings based on buying less than a day or two early.

You’re staying regional: Point-to-point is cheaper.

Most regional trains have a fixed price based on the distance traveled so there is no need to book early.

Eurail Pass Vs Single, Point-To-Point Train Tickets: In-Depth Analysis

Determining the value of a rail pass vs single tickets takes a little legwork and math. I’ve tried to break it all down below but it’s not an exact science.

Understanding Point-To-Point Train Ticket Pricing

Single train tickets are priced in two different ways:

Variable-Price Train Fares

Variable Fares, much like airline tickets, are always changing based on a combination of demand, departure time, and the amount of time before the departure date — essentially all high-speed trains operate on this pricing model.

Most rail companies start selling their tickets 60-90 days before departure so you’ll get the cheapest fares when booked during this time. Typically, prices gradually rise as the departure date approaches but you can still get some good fares if you book a couple of weeks in advance.

But the prices can be high if you book within a few days of departure and they’ll typically be very high if you book last minute.

IMPORTANT: The cheapest train tickets are non-changeable and non-refundable. That means your ticket is only valid for the specific date and time printed on your ticket. In short, if you miss that train then you’re out of luck.

Fixed-Price Train Fares

With Fixed-Price Fares, the price is solely determined by the distance traveled.

Fixed-price tickets are most common on regional and slower trains. With this type of ticket, it doesn’t matter when you buy it because the price never changes.

How To Find Tain Ticket Prices

There are two main ways to buy European train tickets—directly from each country’s National Rail Service (which can be a pain as I outline below) or through a third-party train booking search engine like  Omio  and  Trainline .

To find prices, I typically simply visit Omio  or  Trainline and enter my estimated travel dates. If my trip is a long way away, I’ll pick a date about 2-4 weeks from today so I can get an estimate of how much the ticket would cost if I were to book a few weeks prior to departure. It’s not an exact science but it’s good for estimating purposes.

There are quite a few advantages to buying your train tickets  Omio  and  Trainline :

• The advantage of booking with a third-party booking site is that it lets you book more complex multi-country/international train routes. Many National Rail Services have trouble booking international routes (i.e. going from France to Italy) — so they can’t always find the best deals or show all available routes.
• Many of Europe’s National Rail websites still have issues processing foreign credit cards so it’s common for credit cards to be declined when booking. These third-party sites won’t have these issues.
• We’ve found that it’s common for Europe’s National Rail websites to be plagued with weird technical problems and overall poor user interfaces. Many times you’ll get kicked from the English version of the page to the local language in the middle of the booking process. These third-party booking websites take care of these issues.

MY FAVORITE TRAIN BOOKING WEBSITES

• Omio : Omio is a great train booking engine that lets you book tickets from just about every country’s rail service and they make the booking process very user-friendly.
• Trainline.com : Trainline is a new European train booking service (very similar to  Omio ) that sells train tickets from Austrian, French, German, Spanish, Italian, and German Railways railways (and a few others).

Calculating the Daily Price of Rail Passes

I find that it is helpful to calculate the daily cost of the rail pass to see if a pass is cheaper than single tickets.

Eurail Global Continuous Pass (Price Per Day)

Note: The “price per day” is a little deceiving with a Global Continuous Pass since you (probably) won’t be traveling via train every day. To get a better estimate you should estimate how often you’ll use the train.

Eurail Global Flexi Pass Price (Price Per Day)

Example single train ticket prices.

For  high-speed trains , it’s best to buy tickets early to get the cheapest tickets. In most cases, train tickets can be purchased 60-90 days before the departure date but buying a few weeks early is usually fine.

Note: Ticket prices for many high-speed trains will change a lot based on departure time (i.e. busy times are more expensive) so adjusting your time by an hour or two could equal big savings — so poke around Omio to get a better idea of prices.

Let’s look at some example ticket prices:

• Purchased Two Days Before Departure: €77- €106 ($90-$125)
• Purchased Two Days Before Departure: €69 ($81)
• Purchased Three Weeks Before Departure: €55 ($65)
• Purchased Eight Weeks Before Departure: €21 ($25)
• Purchased Two Days Before Departure: €135 ($159)
• Purchased Three Weeks Before Departure: €97 ($114)
• Purchased Six Weeks Before Departure: €54 ($64)
• Purchased Eight Weeks Before Departure: €35 ($42)
• Purchased Two Days Before Departure: €234 ($267)
• Purchased Three Weeks Before Departure: €124 ($146)
• Purchased Six Weeks Before Departure: €55 ($65)
• Purchased For Next Day Departure Day: €35-€60 ($41-$70)
• Purchased Eight Weeks Before Departure: €35-€63 ($45-$75)

As you can see, booking just a few weeks early can save quite a bit of money.

Doing The Math for Rail Pass Vs Single Tickets

At this point, all you have to do is compare the daily price of the pass to the cost of a single ticket.

Let’s look at the Paris to Amsterdam high-speed Thalys train for example:

• A 10 travel days Flexi Global Pass equals $36 per day. And rail pass riders have to pay around $33 for a reservation on this particular train so your total would be around $70 for this journey.
• Booking a last-minute train from Paris to Amsterdam is $120-$180 so the Eurail pass is a great deal in this case.
• But booking two months in advance is $45 so it’s a lot cheaper than a rail pass in this case.

A rail pass is great if you want a lot of flexibility or you don’t want to bother with the hassle and frustration of planning out your entire trip ahead of time.

Unfortunately, the extra seat reservation fees and the limited number of seats allocated to rail pass riders ruin/diminish the value of a Eurail pass for many riders who are traveling through France, Spain, Italy, and Portugal. For example, if I need to reserve my seat 2-3 days in advance then that kind of negates a lot of flexibility.

Buying point-to-point tickets almost always make more financial sense if you can plan your journey in advance and buy your tickets a few weeks before you travel.

Read The Savvy Backpacker’s Guide on How To Buy Train Tickets In Europe to learn how to find the cheapest train tickets.

In short…

I’ve done European trips with and without a Eurail pass.

With the Eurail pass, I loved being able to hop on the train whenever I pleased. I didn’t have to worry about planning anything, and I decided where I next wanted to visit on a whim.

But these days I tend to plan my trips a little more so buying single point-to-point tickets ends up being much more affordable and it’s made even easier thanks to online train ticket booking websites like Omio  and  Trainline .

How To Maximize The Value Of Your Eurail Pass

Here are a few more tips and tricks to help you make the most of your Eurail Pass.

Combine Pass With Point-To-Point Tickets

Passes are most valuable when used on longer (i.e. more expensive) train rides so it doesn’t make economic sense to use up one of the days on your pass on cheap rides that only cost $15-$30. That’s why I like to combine a Flexi Pass with cheap point-to-point tickets as a way to maximize the rail pass value.

Wait To Write In Your Travel Dates

While rare, sometimes tickets aren’t checked on the train so I wait to fill in the pass until I see the conductor checking tickets — just don’t let them see you filling it in last second.

Additionally, don’t make the mistake of filling in your entire itinerary because plans can change, and once you fill in the dates you can’t change them.

Do Some Pre-Planning To Compare The Different Passes

Plan your trip and compare different rail pass plans. You don’t want to purchase a pass that doesn’t give you enough travel days, but you also don’t want to waste left-over days from a pass that was too large. You can’t upgrade your pass after you’ve purchased it and you don’t get refunds for unused days.

The Passes Give You Unlimited Train Rides Per Day

Remember, your rail pass gives you unlimited train travel per day (i.e. midnight to midnight) so you could conceivably take multiple train rides per day.

This is a nice option if you’re doing a long-distance day trip. For example, the train from Paris to Lyon takes about 2 hours and costs around $40-$90 each way. So you could take the early train to Lyon, spend the day exploring, and be back in Paris that night — and you’d only use up one travel day on your pass.

Then again, since you’re in France, you’ll have to pay a seat reservation fee on both journeys so it might not be an amazing deal in this particular case.

The Eurail Pass Now Covers The Eurostar Train Between London & Paris

The typically expensive Eurostar train was recently added to the Eurail Pass so that’s awesome for travelers. There is an extra €30 fee but can still be a good deal for pass holders since a last-minute Eurostar ticket can be $130-$180+.

Insurance, Refunds, and Fine Print

Paper passes aren’t refundable (once used) unless you buy Pass Protection insurance. If you have a mobile pass and you lose/break your phone, you can transfer the pass to another phone.

Rail Passes Don’t Cover Subways/Suburban Metro/Trams

Rail passes don’t work on the subway or other intra-city public transportation. Some might be valid on trains to/from the airport but this is a waste of a travel day.

Learn More About Trains In Europe

If you’ve never traveled by train I suggest reading my Guide To Train Travel In Europe for general train travel advice.

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A Guide to the Eurail Pass: What to Know About Train Travel in Europe

By Blane Bachelor

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In the not-so-distant past, if you were a 20-something traveling around Europe , there’s a good chance your journey relied on a hefty backpack and a Eurail pass .

The pass, which has been around for 60 years, enables rail travel in 33 European countries and remains a popular choice among backpackers and beyond. The offering has evolved significantly since launching in 1959, expanding from 13 initial countries and, as of 2020, going digital, eliminating the need for pesky paper tickets. Other recent upgrades include a simplified pricing structure and more discounts for youth and senior fares.

On the flip side, critics say Eurail passes have lost some of their luster because of increasing restrictions and additional fees in recent years, as well as competition from budget airlines like Ryanair and Easyjet. Even so, it’s hard to beat the convenience and flexibility of a single-purchase rail pass—and arguably the most iconic way to journey throughout Europe, from Finland to Portugal to Turkey.

“It’s a classic way to get around Europe—it’s phenomenal,” says Mike Fuller, owner of ItaliaRail.com , a U.S.-based site that sells Italian train tickets and is expected to soon offer Eurail passes. “There is a renaissance in rail travel among North Americans going to Europe.”

Considering a pass for your next European adventure? Here’s what to know before getting on board.

How do Eurail passes work?

First off: Eurail itself is not an operator. It’s a specific type of rail pass that enables international passengers to travel on national and regional rail carriers operating throughout Europe (its counterpart, Interrail , is available for European citizens and residents). Under a newer, more simplified pricing system, passengers can now choose between a Global Pass and a One-Country Pass .

With the Global Pass, options are based on train travel days within a certain amount of time, starting at four days within a one-month window for $216 (the most popular choice, starting at $473, offers 10 travel days within two months). On each travel day, pass holders can ride as many trains as they want from midnight to midnight. Be aware there are booking fees associated with each ride—more on that below.  

A One-Country pass, meanwhile, offers travel within one country or a particular region (like Benelux, covering Belgium, the Netherlands , and Luxembourg, or Scandinavia ). Options range from three to eight travel days within one month, with prices starting at $150 for Italy, one of the most popular destinations.

Eurail’s mobile pass and rail planner app have further simplified planning and logistics. The mobile pass is delivered straight to your inbox after purchase—no more waiting on a paper ticket in the mail or filling out a “travel diary” en route. Instead, passengers upload the mobile pass into the route planner app while connected to Wi-Fi and organize their trips from there. Once on board, inspectors validate the pass by scanning the barcode in the app.

Those digital enhancements have been increasingly popular, especially for U.S.-based travelers, according to Yi Ding, Eurail's business and growth manager. Ding says the features have added an extra layer of flexibility and convenience for passengers, many of whom now plan trips a few weeks in advance instead of months—one of several pandemic-fueled shifts in buying patterns. “We’re happy to really see that more than 90 percent of American travelers actually use the mobile pass instead of a paper pass to travel around Europe,” Ding says. 

How do you score the best deal?

Calculating the savings from a pass—and whether it’s worth it to buy one in the first place—can be a complex task involving a breakdown of your itinerary, estimated days of travel, comparing prices with point-to-point tickets, and other factors.

If you have an idea of how many cities and countries you want to visit over a certain number of days, you can price your options both ways—via a rail pass and then point-to-point tickets. Check out Eurail’s handy trip planning feature , which provides suggestions for the best type of pass for your itinerary. You can then see how those fares stack up against the cost of point-to-point tickets via individual countries’ rail operators or comparison sites like Omio.com .

Also consider how much flexibility you need: Do you want the option, for example, to tack on a side trip based on a recommendation you picked up en route, or a more firm itinerary based on a transfer to a nonrefundable flight deal you scored? Generally speaking, “if your travel plans are firm and dates are fixed, you don't necessarily need a pass,” says Mark Smith, founder of The Man in Seat 61 , a website specializing in rail travel. “But if you want the freedom of waking up in the morning, and saying, ‘We’re in Berlin , should we go to Amsterdam or Warsaw?’, you don’t get that freedom with advance purchase tickets.”

For some travelers, Smith suggests a “mix-and-match” approach. “Instead of buying, for example, a 10-days-in-2-months pass to cover eight or nine planned journeys, it can be cheaper to buy a 7-days-in-2-months pass plus a normal ticket for a day when you're only doing a short local hop such as Florence to Pisa, or a cheap advance-purchase ticket for a journey at the start of your trip that you know you plan to make,” he explains.

Finally, keep in mind that the convenience of a pass can offer significant non-monetary value, especially for longer journeys across one (or more) different countries. Buying point-to-point tickets often means navigating unfamiliar booking systems in various languages (and on websites that may have trouble with U.S. credit cards). And because different carriers have different booking platforms, that can mean multiple tickets for a single trip. If you’re not up for those extra steps, a pass is a good fit.

What about hidden costs?

Reservation fees , which are not included in the cost of the Eurail pass, can take some travelers by surprise. Even with the DIY option of self-service through the mobile app, you’ll pay a booking fee of €2 Euros per traveler per trip, plus a domestic train reservation fee , which varies per country and train type (night and high-speed trains, not surprisingly, are more expensive and almost universally require advance booking).

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According to Eurail’s website, reservations average €10 for high-speed trains and €15 for international, but for the most popular routes in Western Europe, fees on certain routes—Paris to Basel, for example, can go as high as €68 (approximately $79).

Smith has a simple rule of thumb for getting a sense of pricier routes. “Draw a line right down the middle of Europe,” he notes. “To the left of that line, countries like France, Italy, and Spain are pass-unfriendly. To the right of that line, Switzerland, Benelux, Denmark , Germany, Austria and points east are pass-friendly. You generally don’t incur extra costs, and in most cases there are no reservations required.”

What about extra pass perks and discounts?

Among Eurail’s most well-known deals is its youth pass , which, as of 2019, is now available for travelers up to 28 years old. Seniors 60 and older, meanwhile, receive a 10 percent discount , while two kids up to 11 years old travel for free under an adult ticket.

Don’t forget about other discounts, either, from ferries to local trains to hotels—all of which can add up to significant savings. (In fact, the Greek Islands Pass was updated in 2019 to include ferry service to 53 islands—up from 28—making it an excellent choice for that island-hopping adventure on many a travel bucket list). Some discounts require advance reservations, while others are only available to be booked in person. Be sure to check the fine print for deals in the particular country you’ll be visiting.

Finally, if you see a great deal—like the 20 percent discount on passes that Eurail offered at the end of 2020—don’t be afraid to grab it and plan your trip later, as passes are now valid for 11 months after purchase.

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Home » Europe » An Intro to Rail Passes in Europe Including Eurail Passes and More

An Intro to Rail Passes in Europe Including Eurail Passes and More

So you’re planning a European backpacking trip to countries like Spain, Portugal, and Germany and wondering, what is the best way to travel around Europe?

If you want to backpack Europe cheaply, you generally need to plan your travels in advance. This  complete guide to rail passes in Europe  will highlight everything you need to know about European railways. We’ll talk about the best ways to travel Europe by train and cover the ever-controversial subject of whether  Eurail passes  are worth your time.

Besides talking Eurail, I will also cover several other types of train passes in Europe, including point-to-point tickets, and regional passes.

Below I have mapped out everything you need to know about the Eurail Pass, discussed the different types of train tickets in Europe, and explained when it is advantageous to buy a train ticket versus sticking to flights or the road.

We’ve also included  a discount on Eurail Passes in this article!  Read on to claim it, my fellow broke backpackers.

Guide to Rail Passes in Europe

Types of eurail passes, how much does a eurail pass cost, types of train tickets in europe, how to buy train tickets in europe, essential information for railways by country, advantages of train travel in europe, disadvantages of train travel in europe, travel tips: trains & rail passes.

As an American, I am always thoroughly impressed by European public transportation. The railways are an extremely convenient (and fun) way to travel Europe. The vast network of rails connect even the smallest towns to one another (a luxury we don’t have in the US).

That said, it can be a bit confusing to decipher all of the different types of passes when planning a trip to Europe, and each country has different railway companies and regulations to abide… Plus, you might be wondering if you should even travel Europe by train and if the costs of Eurail Passes are really worth it.

That’s where this Europe rail guide comes in!

Let’s start with probably the most important question, what is a Eurail Pass , and how does it work? Below I have written a guide to on how to use these special European train passes.

What is a Eurail Pass? HINT: It’s a Train Pass for Non-EU Citizens

Okay, first things first, what is a Eurail pass versus a normal train ticket?

This is a railway pass that allows non-European residents to travel throughout Europe on the extensive rail network.

Firstly, you pay a one-time fee for your rail pass, which is delivered to your home address before your trip. This means you have to plan to buy a European rail pass in advance; this isn’t a last-minute purchase !

Tip: It is possible to have it delivered to an address while in Europe. I did it, but make sure it’s a trustworthy location. The pass isn’t cheap, and I actually had to hunt mine down at the DHL office in Madrid to get it in time!

How to Use the Eurail Pass

You can use a Eurail pass for your entire trip instead of buying individual tickets for each ride.

You pay per day, not per train:  Take 1 train or 5 trains a day, or travel 400km. With a rail pass, you can travel as much as you want on that day.

Flexibility: Travel whenever you want, wherever you want. No need to plan ahead! A rail pass in Europe offers unmatched freedom for multiple journeys (unless a reservation is required, which is necessary for most overnight and high-speed trains).

Reservation: Most trains do not require a reservation, but some will. You will only pay a small fee to travel onboard premium trains like the TGV , Eurostar , Thalys , TGV Lyria and more.

A Eurail Pass is the  best option if you plan to use the train as your main source of transport and you want the ultimate flexibility to plan your trip as-you-go. The pass is best used to travel to neighboring countries; whereas, budget flights will make more sense from a time and money perspective if you are jetting across the European continent.

Point-to-point tickets can be cheaper than the railway pass when you buy them far in advance, but prices tend to skyrocket as the date gets closer. Flights, buses, and shared rides can be cheaper than the train. I will discuss when these options are best later in the guide.

Are the Eurail and InterRail the same Pass?

Only non-European residents can use a Eurail pass. The InterRail pass is for European/UK residents; it’s cheaper too! You can buy an InterRail pass if you have been living in Europe for the last 6 months.

Not all passes are created equal. There are a few options to choose from when you are buying a Eurail Pass.

Regional Pass

Not to be confused with a regional ticket, this is the type of pass that allows you to travel in 1 or 2 countries .

Want to know which countries you can visit with Eurail?  Download the official  Eurail Pass Map  from their website and start planning your trip. Just try not to go cross-eyed reading it.

Select Pass

For the Select Pass, you are limited to traveling between 3 , 4 , or 5 bordering countries. Some countries, like the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg are considered  1 country on the pass called “ Benelux. “

You can purchase a  3 Country Select Pass and travel between the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg (i.e. Benelex), France, and Germany. The more countries you choose, the more expensive the pass.

The Select Pass is only usable for 5 to 15 travel days in a two-month period . The more travel days you choose, the more expensive the pass gets.

Tip: Remember you can travel on multiple trains in one day, and it is still considered one trip.

Global Pass

This is generally the most expensive option, but it also grants you much more flexibility if you are planning to travel all over Europe. You can travel between the 28 participating Eurail countries on the Global Pass.

Right now, Broke Backpacker readers can receive a discount on Eurail Global Passes of either type when they use the code BBPKLOOK . Have a train station coffee on us!

Continuous and Flexi Option

Flexi Pass: This pass gets you a certain amount of travel days between a 2-month period. The Global flexi pass is similar to the Select flexi Pass, the difference being the global pass isn’t limited to 3-5 countries. You will have a minimum of 10 travel days on the flexi Global pass i.e. 10 different train tickets.

Continuous pass:  This pass grants you unlimited travel between any Eurail participant country for 15 days to 3 months. The longer your pass is valid, the more expensive it is.

The continuous pass also provides the most flexibility. You never have to wonder if a train trip justifies using a “travel day” like the flexi pass. This is generally the most expensive option, and often times not worth the cost  unless   you plan to ride the train nearly daily.

Should you choose a continuous pass or flexi pass?

If you plan to spend at least 3 days at most of your destinations, the flexi pass definitely makes the most sense. I wouldn’t recommend the continuous pass unless you have money to blow.

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Alright, so you decided to get a rail pass for Europe. What is it going to cost you?

Most of the time this isn’t the cheapest option, but it is the most flexible. The costs of Eurail Passes vary greatly based on how many countries you select , how many trips you choose,  and  flexi vs. continuous .

If you already have predetermined dates for your European itinerary, then point-to-point train tickets and flights are cheaper than the pass. If you do not want to plan the dates ahead of time, then the pass is probably going to save you money.

Use the Klook calculator to figure out the cost of your Eurail pass. Choose your plan and divide the rail pass price by the number of days you’ll be traveling by train to figure out the average expenses of each journey on the pass.

Remember this cost, and always check last-minute regular tickets too. If the cost for a point-to-point or regional ticket is less than your divided price, save one of your trips and buy the cheaper ticket instead!

Budget Tip: If you know you are traveling to Europe this summer, then book your pass   far in advance .  The prices of Eurail Passes are usually lower when you order ahead.

Other Eurail Pass Discounts

Young travelers can receive a big discount on Eurail Passes! If someone is under 27, they can get up to 20% off any type of Eurail Pass, be it a global, single-country, or select-country pass.

Those on a gap-year from school or who are still in the springtime of their life (you whipper-snappers) should ABSOLUTELY be taking advantage of this opportunity. Paying less for your rail pass means more money for all of those amazing museums and those crazy backpacker parties in Europe.

Note that, the terms “Eurail Youth Pass” and “Eurail Student Pass” are often used interchangeably. It’s best to use the former as students over 27 don’t actually get discounts on Eurail Passes.

When Shouldn’t You Get a Train Pass for Europe

Travel in Italy :  Train tickets in Italy are usually cheap (even if bought at the station), so you’ll save money by simply buying point-to-point tickets. On the other hand, train travel is very expensive in Switzerland, so you should buy a SwissRail pass.

Travel in Spain: Often times Renfe (the system here) is quite expensive for last-minute tickets. Plan ahead here! I found that buses were a more efficient and cheaper way to get around Spain.

Travel in Eastern Europe and the Balkans:   Train travel is also very cheap here. Moreover, a lot of countries in Eastern Europe and the Balkans are not as well connected as Western Europe. Often times the bus is actually cheaper and more efficient.

Travel on Islands: When traveling to countries like Greece, mostly comprised of islands, it obviously makes no sense to travel by a rail pass. Even on mainland Greece, the buses are going to be cheaper. You don’t even have the option on Iceland.

Traveling Regionally: If you are only traveling within a region of a country, the regional ticket will be sufficient. Don’t buy a Eurail pass if you aren’t covering much ground on your trip.

Traveling Long Distances: Conversely, don’t buy a Eurail pass if you are covering a lot of ground either. If you will be jumping around countries (ex: Spain to Italy) the train is going to eat up much of your itinerary and time, and flights are probably going to be cheaper anyway!

For example, if you want to get from Barcelona to Rome, just buy a flight.  If you are traveling slowly from Barcelona to Rome (going through the French Riviera, Switzerland, Tuscany, and a few towns in Italy along the way) then the train pass makes the most sense for fun and flexibility.

Summary of the Eurail Pass

To summarize all of that information above, the Eurail pass is not the cheapest way to travel Europe unless you are traveling by train every couple days. That said, it is the most flexible way to travel because you do not need to buy a ticket in advance. Most of the time you can just hop on the train, which leaves from cities’ centers.

The Flexi option is almost always of better value than the Continuous option unless you are changing cities daily. Activate the pass on the last day of your first city, and end it on the first day of your last city to get the most value.

In order to figure out if the cost of a Eurail pass is even worth it, take your travel style and itinerary into consideration. If you already have a set itinerary with accommodation reservations, look up flights, train tickets, and bus tickets ahead of time. It is probably cheaper to book these in advance versus buying a pass.

Traveling Europe on a budget ? Figure out which Eurail Pass makes sense for your travels, and divide the total pass cost by the number of trips included to figure out how much each “trip” on the pass is worth. Compare the price of the Eurail Pass to every point-to-point, flight, and bus ticket option.

Now that we have covered the different types of Eurail passes, I’m going to discuss all of the other types of train tickets in Europe. Sometimes the pass doesn’t make sense. Below I explain why.

Point-to-Point Train Tickets

These are just your average one-way/roundtrip train tickets you can purchase online or at the train station.  Buying tickets far in advance is almost always the best way to save money when using train travel in Europe, but it’s also the least flexible way to travel.

If you are already traveling Europe on a strict itinerary with reservations, or with limited-time vacation, then this shouldn’t be disadvantageous anyway. Moreover, you want to buy a ticket in advance for popular destinations, like London to Paris.

This is also a great way to travel Europe if you are short on time and trying to make the most of your itinerary. Train stations are located in the city centers, so you don’t have to deal with travel between far-out airports and your destination.

Regional Trains in Europe

Regional trains, as the name suggests, will transport you around a specific region of a country. They are one of the best ways to discover non-touristy areas of Europe.

They do not have the luxury of speed, though you don’t really need it as the distances are short.

You don’t have to buy a regional train ticket in advance since there are frequent services and reservations are not required.

Even if you are only going on a day trip between two destinations, regional train passes can be  cheaper  than a normal roundtrip ticket! This is especially true if you are  Backpacking Germany

For example, if you are trying to visit  Füssen   to visit the famous Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich , it actually makes more sense to buy a Bavaria Regional Day Pass  than a normal roundtrip ticket as the locals do.

Many towns are only reachable by regional trains, like  Sintra, Portugal . This fairy-tale, castle filled town is only 40 minutes from Lisbon, and definitely worth the trip.

Railway Passes in Europe

We discussed this above. The Eurail Pass is the most flexible way to travel around Europe  for non-European residents. Interrail is great for European residents. You can combine 1-5 countries, or get a global pass for full-admittance to all 28 participating countries.

First Vs. Second Class Eurail Pass

In my opinion, one should always choose a second class ticket when buying a rail pass, if possible. There isn’t much of a difference in comfortability, and it’s the best option for travelers on a budget!

The only downside is that second class is significantly more crowded. It can be tough to find a seat on popular train routes. Even if a reservation is not required, it may be worth making one if you are traveling between two popular destinations.

Youth Class

If you are 26 or younger, you’re in luck because a second-class train ticket is up to 35% cheaper for you! Make sure to check this box when you are buying your Eurail Pass!

Buy Your Train Tickets Online: You’ll get the best deals on tickets if you buy online, but you need to buy them directly from each country’s site if you do not have a pass. Refer to the  Essential Information for Rails by Country   below.

Here are the websites for Rail Europe Canada , Rail Europe Australia , and Rail Europe New Zealand .

Buy Your Tickets at the Station:  It’s easier to buy regional tickets at the train station. They do not require reservations anyway. It’s also best to buy tickets at the station if you are traveling in Eastern European countries.

How to Buy a Eurail Pass:  You must purchase a Eurail Pass online, which will be shipped to your home address. It is possible to have one shipped within Europe, but you need an address.

You will then activate your rail pass by getting it stamped at the ticket window at the departure station on the day of your first train journey . Once activated, your time limit will begin.

If you have already purchased have a Eurail Pass , you won’t need to purchase another ticket!

The 7 pm rule:  This is important if you have a flexi pass. You only need to use one travel day when you travel on a direct night train that departs after 7 p.m. (19:00) and arrives after 4 a.m. (04:00). The date that counts as the travel day is the arrival date .

Even though European countries are well-connected by rail, each country has their own national rail company and regulations.

Individual Country’s National Rail Websites

If you are buying individual tickets, or you are traveling within one country in Europe, use these individual websites for reference:

Austrian Railways  – Belgian Railways  – Danish Railways – Finnish Railways – French Railways –

German Railways – Irish Railways – Italian Railways – Spanish Railways – Netherlands Railways  –

Norwegian Railways – Polish Railways – Swedish Railways – Swiss Railways  – United Kingdom Railways

Since the UK isn’t a Eurail participant country, this is the pass you would purchase to travel between England, Scotland, and Wales.

In my opinion, it’s almost always too expensive for what its worth, but the countryside is absolutely beautiful. If you feel like living your Harry Potter off to Hogwarts dream, a train ticket in the U.K is worth the splurge. If you’re on a budget, check Megabus and other cheap ways of travel instead!

Unlike the Britrail pass, it’s almost always worth buying the SwissRail pass. This is a pass you can use to travel around Switzerland; point-to-point tickets in Switzerland are expensive. The pass allows you to use the train on small journeys in between the smaller villages as well.

Below I have highlighted the advantages of traveling Europe by train, and why you should choose a train over air travel.

1. Vast Network of Railways

The coolest part about taking the train is that you are not confined to the main cities. The railway network connects even the smallest European towns, so you can get a bit off the beaten path without having to rent a car.

2. Flexibility

Most passes allow you to hop on a train at a moment’s notice. While some trains require a reservation (like most overnight excursions), most of them do not require you to book ahead. You can show up at the train station and hop on, unlike flying or renting a car, which generally requires a reservation far in advance.

This is a fun way to travel Europe because you can travel without a plan. You never know who you are going to meet while staying in hostels around Europe (or at the bars)! Because European cities are so well connected, you can easily make detours and changes to your itinerary with a rail pass.

3. No Luggage Limits

Even though airline tickets can be cheaper, you will often have to deal with strict weight and size limits. Trains do not have luggage weight or quantity limits, which can sometimes make train travel cheaper than air travel. Check out our guide on what to pack for Europe .

4. Arrive at the City Center

This is a huge advantage of traveling Europe by train. Again, airline tickets may seem cheaper, but once you add in luggage fees and the taxi or metro fare you’re going to need to pay to get to your hostel, money can start adding up.

European train stations are located in the center of town, so you don’t have to spend money (or precious time) getting to/from the city. If you only have a couple weeks to travel around Europe, cutting out time spent at the airport can be huge!

5. Comfortability

The train is much more comfortable than planes, especially those budget airlines like Ryan Air… You have larger seats, and the ability to walk around. You can grab a meal or beer in the food cart, or bring your own refreshments and booze – a great way to save money while travelling Europe and have a good time!

Furthermore, the train has beautiful views and allows you to see more of the countryside and stop in towns you may not have known about. Even if a train ticket is more expensive, it’s sometimes worth it just for the view and comfort.

Okay, train travel is great, but there are disadvantages of the rails too. I’ve highlights the top reasons why you shouldn’t choose train travel below.

1. Cost of rail passes in Europe

Even though train travel is more fun, it can also be more expensive, especially for long distances or last-minute tickets. Often times the bus or a ride-sharing app is cheaper than train travel.

That being said, there are discounts for youth travelers (under 26) so make sure to use this option! If you are pinching pennies, your best bet is to purchase your train ticket far in advance.

If all else fails, use a ride-sharing app, like Bla Bla Car or hitchhike instead.

2. Slow for Long Distance Travel

The train is great if you are hopping from city to city within one country or neighboring countries, but I wouldn’t want to take a train all the way from Paris to Rome if a flight is a similar cost (and it is). This is the difference between a multi-day excursion and a few hours on a plane.

Make sure to check the timetables and distance for your European trip. It may be worth adding a couple flights if you are trying to cover a vast distance.

3. Some Countries have awful train service

This is mostly true in the Baltics, Greece, Georgia and the rest of Eastern Europe, where taking the bus is way more convenient. In these instances we would point you towards Flixbus who operate across Europe.

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Below are my top travel tips for taking the train in Europe. These tips are guaranteed to save you $100s of dollars and lots of time, so use them!

1. Preplanned train travel will save you money

It is much cheaper if you buy your tickets online a month or two ahead of time. This takes the flexibility of train travel out of the equations though, which is why a European rail pass is so convenient.

2. Use the Eurail timetable to plan your journey

You can use the  Eurail timetable  to plan your journey with regional trains too. Check the box ‘Avoid trains that require a reservation’ though!

3. Almost always choose the Flexi Pass over the Continuous Pass

If you won’t be traveling every day, there’s no point of the continuous pass. Choose the flexi pass instead; it’s cheaper!

4. Plan to activate your Eurail pass when you will be traveling by train most

You don’t need to buy a month-long pass just because you’re in Europe for a month. You can activate your pass whenever you want, so keep this in mind when you are choosing the length of time for your pass. This will save you money!

For example, You plan to go to Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Munich for one month, but you will be in Paris for a week and Munich for a week. It makes much more sense to buy the 14-day pass instead of a full month.

Moreover, you should also check point-to-point ticket between Paris and Amsterdam. If it’s affordable, then you can use your pass with one less country (France) which will save you a lot of money.

5. Don’t use your Eurail pass if a point-to-point ticket is cheaper

Always check the prices for normal tickets when you are using train travel in Europe. It may be cheaper to buy an individual ticket than your one trip on the pass is worth.

For example, i f you only have 2 train rides left on your Eurail Pass, you’re going to want to use it to get from Paris to Berlin, not Berlin to Dresden (which will probably have a more affordable local ticket).

6. Some rail passes in Europe do not include subways, metros, or trams

Some European train passes, including Eurail, do  not  include intra-city public transport. Regional Tickets, however – like if you buy a Bavaria regional pass – do! Check before you buy to make sure.

7. Choose the night train to save money

If you’re traveling a long distance and set on train travel, you should take a night train. Night trains require a reservation though, so plan in advance. A bed will cost about the same as a hostel bed and should be reserved ahead of time. This is also a good way to save time and money.

8. Check for reservation fees when traveling by train

Many high-speed and overnight trains require reservations even if you have a pre-paid European rail pass. Look for an “R” on the train schedule, which stands for reservation required. There is also a small fee for reservations. Most trains within France require a reservation, but you can make a reservation at the train station!

9. Each country will have a different railroad company

For example, Germany has an extensive rail network, mostly monopolized by Deutsche Bahn, which controls the rail system and metro system in cities.

10. Bring your own snacks and booze

This is definitely the cheapest way to travel! And remember, regional trains do not have a restaurant car!

11. Check the prices of Buses and Flights too

Sometimes train travel is cheaper and more convenient. Other times the bus is. Flights are a cheaper, faster way to jump countries. Check out this post I wrote on  how to find the cheapest flights !

Final Thoughts on Train Travel in Europe

It can be overwhelmingly confusing to decipher between the different types of train tickets and passes when planning a trip to Europe. And sometimes it’s tough to know when to use the train vs. car, bus, or plane! That’s why I wrote this guide to European train travel!

Also, remember, if you decide to purchase a Eurail pass, non-EU residents should use Eurail . European and UK residents should use Interail . Comment below if you found this article helpful!

Don’t forget to claim your Eurail Pass discount either people! Just remember to use the code BBPKLOOK when checking out on Klook.

Safe and happy travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ana Pereira

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15 Comments

I had a ghastly time with the Global Mobile Pass in the United Kingdom. First, I could not activate my pass until I supplied a PIN. No pin had been issued. I tried every pin that I could find. Rail Europe and Eurail both were unhelpful. Finally, a Rail Europe employee suggested that I use the numbers with which I open my phone. This suggestion was not in the instructions for the Global Mobile. I lost three or four days. Second, the pass on my phone did not open a single gate with its QR. I needed to show the QR code to a gate attendant. Finally, use of my pass was denied by Heathrow Express. Over the last sixty years, I have used Rail Europe about ten times. Never again. Have you heard of problems with the Global Mobile Pass. This email need not be posted.

Bought a very expensive Eurail global pass and it was stolen along with all my luggage. I had purchased the insurance package, but the only thing they reimbursed me for was the cost of two train tickets. I was furious as there were 5 days left on my pass. They also did not reimburse the reservations that they required. I will never use them again. More than half the time the tickets would have been much cheaper to buy on line in the country where I was. Very disappointed with Eurail. Plus you have to keep a very detailed log of every train.

This is some useful information. Thanks for sharing it with us.

Hi there! Thank you for the very good info on train in Europe. Somehow I still have some questions to seek your advise. As I will travel around some countries in Europe on Jan 2020 as from my plan is to go Berlin > by flight to Brussels > by train to Paris > by flight to Lisbon > by flight to Barcelona > by flight to Rome > by train to Milan > by train to Zermatt > by train to Interlaken > by train to Lucern > by train to Zurich > by flight to Cologne > by train to Berlin. Can you recommend me, which pass is the worth and best choice to travel? thanks in advance! Have a nice day ahead!!

Thank you, this helps a novice greatly

You won’t be a novice much longer!

Hi, my name is Ravi, am from New Zealand. And I’ll be travelling across the whole of Europe over 7 weeks. Would it be best if I get the 2 month global pass? And how does it affect Eastern Europe for countries like Greece, Croatia and Hungary?

Hey Ravi! We can’t make the choice for you because it requires estimating about how often you’ll use associated railways. You’re definitely traveling long enough that it could pay you back. If you’ll be doing a lot of relocating during one portion (the beginning) and then slowing down, you would do better to get a reduced rail pass. I recommend Seat 61’s rail guide for information about Eastern Europe. Happy adventuring!

Wow! That’s enough info to backpack around Europe. I actually don’t stay quite at one place more want to explore more neighboring countries like Germany/Austria/vienna then Rome and Paris if time admits netherlands.all in 16 days.which is best continuous 15 days pass or flexi one? Because flexi seems to be costly here

Hey Ganesh, it’s worth looking into whether you’d get more value out of the continuous or flexi one! Basically, if you’re traveling every day or nearly every day, the continuous will give you so much more value. If you’re traveling fewer days, at some point it becomes more economical to get the flexi for your limited train journeys. You can calculate the cost difference with Eurail’s Rail Pass Calculator to find out which is appropriate for your itinerary. Best of luck!

My wife are traveling from Atlanta, GA to Paris and want to go to London, Amsterdam and Switzerland. Austria. The trip is 2 weeks. We have to return to Paris for our return flight. I’m confused about the Interail Pass and Swiss Rail pass. I’m over 60 years of age and my wife will be turning 60 during our trip. What do you suggest, where can I find discounts/purchase tickets for our trip in October? Thanks.

Hi Bill! Your best bet might be the Eurail, which functions within all those countries and is the best option for Americans. We’ve recently discovered a service called Klook that offers discounted trips and we reached out to get our readers a discount of $5 (that’s at least something, right?), which you can get with the code BBPKLOOK . Find the rail options here!

Hey, thanks for the article. Just in response to Ana’s comment, it does look like the Eurail Global Pass is now valid in Great Britain as well, which will be helpful for some travellers.

Safe journeys!

I’m a 66 year old New Zealander but I believe I’m 20 years younger than that biologically. Anyway I’ll be doing a cycling trip with my son on Crete before going with him to Istanbul. From there he’ll fly back to London where he is currently employed and I want to travel on by train to eventually also arrive in London before I fly home to NZ. Can I use a Eurail pass to get from Istanbul to London and is that the best option? I think I’d like to take maybe 6-10 days over it to give me the flexibility if say I like the look of somewhere along the route (because that has always been my preferred way of travelling) Also, is there a discount for people over 60 or 65? I note that there is one for those under 26.

Hi Keith! Great point. I believe there is a senior discount too if you are over 60. I don’t think the pass necessarily pays for itself in Eastern Europe, especially because there are a lot of countries between Turkey and the UK so you would probably need the Eurail Global pass. Consider flying somewhere and then using a train pass from there, since you only have 6-10 days. The pass is a great investment if you ultimately want flexibility and the ability to hop on and off trains. Keep in mind that the UK is not part of the Eurail pass, so buy a point-to-point ticket from Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, etc ahead of time 🙂

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The Ultimate Guide to the Eurail Pass [Tickets, Reservations, Routes & More]

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Thinking of exploring Europe?

The Eurail pass allows you to travel between over 40,000 destinations, across 31 different countries, all on just 1 single ticket. It is a flexible and affordable way to take in the varying sights, climates, and cultures of Europe at your own pace.

Why Travel Europe by Train?

There are several benefits to traveling Europe by train over other forms of transport.

There are several high-speed rail networks that crisscross the continent, making it incredibly easy to navigate from place to place virtually anywhere in Europe. They link with almost every major town and city and are a super fast and reliable means of getting around, while also giving you the chance to take in the stunning scenery and mix with the locals.

Unlike sweaty subways or jam-packed bus rides, a long-distance train journey also gives you the opportunity to relax and unwind along the way. Eat, drink, and even sleep your way from 1 destination to another.

Trains travel all across Europe quickly and easily, and there are no 2-hour check-in times, no hanging around for hours on end in strange airports, and major stations tend to be close to other amenities like city centers . This all helps to cut down your travel time and reduce your travel costs.

You never have to worry about traffic as most cities suffer from constant traffic jams, a lack of parking spaces, and extortionate parking rates . This is especially true in Europe’s overcrowded city centers, and even the more extensive motorway networks can suffer from a heavy build of traffic that can severely delay your journey.

If you are hiring a car, you should also know that not all rental companies will allow you to drive from 1 country to another, meaning you will need to rejig your plans every time you cross a border.

The final reason why trains are the best way to travel in Europe is — let’s face it — buses are basic. Long-distance bus travel is considered the poor relation of the railways . They can be cramped and uncomfortable, you are at the mercy of traffic conditions, and you can’t eat, drink or wander around on a bus like you can on the train. A bus also has a higher environmental impact than a nice modern train does.

The Eurail pass allows you to visit thousands of destinations across Europe using a single ticket. You can travel on a network of high-speed trains that effortlessly cross borders and can deliver you directly to some of the most famous destinations in the world.

Anyone who lives outside of Europe is eligible for a Eurail pass — for example, residents of the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, or Africa. You must purchase your pass before you get there, and if you are already resident in Europe you’ll need an Interrail Pass instead.

The Different Types of Eurail Passes

The Eurail is not a one-size-fits-all solution for the modern traveler. In fact, there are 2 different Eurail passes you can buy to best suit your own individual travel plans:

This is the ultimate rail pass that gives you the freedom to explore a wealth of European destinations across 31 countries for as long as you want to.

You can choose to travel for as little as 3 days in 1 month to a whole 3 months’ worth of travel, taking in some of the most iconic sights and cities in the world as you go. The duration of your pass starts when you validate it at your first station.

Hot Tip: There are discounts available for travelers aged 28 and younger and those who are 60 or older.

If you are planning on visiting just 1 country, this ticket offers an affordable and flexible way to travel at your leisure. You can choose from 3 days travel in 1 month, right up to 8 days travel in 1 month, giving you plenty of time to really explore the towns and cities on your itinerary.

Not just young people and students chose to explore Europe by rail — there are tickets available to suit all ages.

Adult tickets are for those over 18 at the time of travel.

Senior tickets are for those who are over 60 years old from the first day that the pass is valid. Seniors save 10% on the price of an adult ticket.

Youth tickets are for anyone aged under 28 on the first day that the pass is valid and you could save as much as 35% on the full adult fare price.

Children’s tickets are for travelers under the age of 12. Children aged between 4 and 11 years get a free Eurail pass when traveling with an adult, but may still need to pay for any reservation fees where necessary.

Infant tickets are free for little people under 4 years old.

Things to be aware of:

• It is important to note that with both passes, you may still need to reserve and pay for your seats on many of the high-speed services and night trains.
• You can choose from a 1st class pass or 2nd class pass depending on your own preference, but prices will vary.
• You will need to activate your Eurail pass within 11 months of the issue date.
• Travel beyond trains as your ticket will also be valid for transit with ferry companies in some countries. See the terms and conditions of the Eurail pass for further details.
• Different countries have different age limits for free child travel — check before you leave.

The easiest way to purchase your Eurail ticket is directly from their website. There are options available to suit the age of the passenger and how many people are traveling, as well as options for the type of pass you wish to buy and the duration of travel.

You can find everything you need at eurail.com to see a range of tickets including both types of Eurail passes. Rail Europe also offers country-specific websites across a range of territories. Remember to also look out for any delivery costs, too.

Eurail Pass versus Point-to-Point Tickets

While Eurail passes do offer exceptional value for money, they are not the only way to travel around Europe by train, and in some cases may not be the cheapest.

There are no hard or fast rules on this, and every journey will be different, but there are some scenarios where simply booking a ticket to get from A to B may be the best way forward. For example, if you are only using the train for a couple of straightforward, short-distance train rides, point-to-point tickets may be cheaper.

The same can be said with some longer journeys where you may need to pay reservation fees before boarding. You may also find that you are able to source cheaper fares on expensive rail networks by booking in advance or traveling out of season.

The key to knowing exactly when to buy point-to-point is knowing how set in stone your travel plans are. If you need to be at a particular destination on a set date, and you know about it well enough in advance, it may be cheaper and more practical to simply book direct with the rail network or agent in advance.

Bottom Line: To put it in perspective, a 3-day Global Pass can cost you as much as $82 per day, with an additional reservation fee. The chances are that you will absolutely be able to find a single point-to-point ticket for a lower price if you book far enough in advance and know exactly where you are going.

The truth is, there are lots of instances where an all-in-one ticket option will offer you much more flexibility and better savings in the long run.

If you are planning on visiting lots of different European destinations, and you want to be able to travel as, and when you fancy, the Eurail pass offers unprecedented ease of use and value for money . It is also a much better way to commute if you are unable to buy flexible fares in advance, as purchasing tickets on the day of travel can be an extortionate amount of money.

The Eurail pass also works on your time frame, though you can’t just swan around when you feel like it. It is much more helpful when it comes to considerations that you can’t control . Canceled services, bad weather, or other disruptions could lose you the use of a point-to-point ticket, but your Eurail pass will still be valid when you need it.

There are also better discounts available for certain Eurail passengers that you wouldn’t find with normal point-to-point tickets.

For example, Youth Eurail tickets are designed to entice student travelers and those on a budget, often making them even cheaper than the very best advance fare booking. Children under the age of 11 also travel free on Eurail passes, so if you are adventuring as a family, that could definitely sway you.

Bottom Line: Of course, you can choose to use your Eurail for certain parts of your journey and point-to-point tickets at other times. While the pass on paper may not always be the cheapest option, it does afford you the flexibility that rigid point-to-point tickets simply cannot compete with. Your journey, your decision.

So, we know by now that Eurail passes offer a ton of flexibility to avid adventurers and can save you money on your train fares, but how exactly does this golden ticket to travel actually work?

First off, it is important to remember that you do not need to set specific dates to use your Eurail pass, but you must validate your pass within 11 months from the purchase date . You can easily validate it at any station before you jump on board.

Once you are up and running, the key to good Eurailing is marking off how many travel days you have left by simply ticking the boxes. Each pass will have empty boxes to represent the number of days of unlimited travel you have paid for; simply enter your travel dates as and when you complete them . You can take as many trains as you want from midnight to midnight on your chosen travel days.

Your pass also comes in a cover that has a handy travel diary printed onto it. You use this to record the date, departure station, and destination of each journey you take.

Hot Tip: These details are important, and if you fail to fill them in the conductor could issue a fine, so never forget to complete your travel diary on each journey.

Reservations

Some high-speed or overnight sleeper trains will require you to make a reservation before you travel. There may even be additional fees involved, so always do your research before you head on out to take the train.

Different countries and rail networks have different requirements, but as a rough guide to reservations, consider the following.

Some countries require reservations before you travel. In France, Italy, Sweden, Spain, and Portugal you must make a reservation and pay an additional fee for inter-city journeys which can range from between €10-25 ($11-28) depending on the route and service.

Certain lines including the popular Paris-Brussels-Amsterdam route on the Thalys service, as well as the Paris-Turin-Milan TGVs and Paris-Barcelona TGVs only offer a limited number of pass holder seats which can sell out during busy times of the year.

Other countries, like Ireland , The Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, and most of the central and eastern European countries do not require you to reserve your seat to travel, but you can still do so if you want to.

There are no limits to the number of pass holder seats available and a journey on Germany’s famous ICE or Austria’s railjet trains is definitely worth a go if you really appreciate high-speed railways.

Hot Tip: There are some exceptions to the rules, however, and Thalys high-speed trains between Brussels and Amsterdam and between Brussels and Cologne have compulsory reservations and additional fees for rail pass holders. The Glacier Express and The Bernina Express also require reservations for a small fee.

Overnight Sleeper Trains

Traveling through the night is an excellent way to save money on hotel or hostels, and buys you back more daytime sightseeing hours. You will always need to make a reservation for a sleeper or couchette, across all countries and all services.

Most operators will charge around €35 (~$39) for a couchette in a shared compartment, and you could be looking at as much as €95 (~$105) for a more private 2-bed sleeper. These rates may be slightly cheaper across some of the Eastern European countries, but you will still need to pay to sleep.

Hot Tip: Some of the most popular routes like the Paris-Milan/Venice Thello sleeper train, for example, do not accept Eurail passes so you will need to buy a stand-alone ticket or explore other ways to complete this leg of your journey.

There are various ways to make reservations, depending on where you are going and your own personal preference.

At the Station

If you want to practice the local lingo, you can speak to a member of staff at most major rail station ticket offices to reserve your seat. This can usually be done in advance or on the day of departure, in some cases right up until the time the train leaves the station. Some countries also offer self-service ticket machines for less human-based interaction.

On the Internet

If you would rather make your pass holder reservations online, there are plenty of websites available to help you do so. There is no “one-site-fits-all” solution, though, and you will need to Google which operators cover your journey and ensure that they will actually cover pass holder reservations and not just regular ticket options.

Not sure where to start looking? The Eurail reservations page lists major trains services in each country and will tell you how to book online if you can.

Using The Railplanner App

This timetable app covers the whole of Europe and works offline so you can check your train times while on the move. You can make pass holder reservations for Eurostar, Thalys, and Trenitalia high-speed trains and have your tickets delivered straight to your phone.

Sleepers and Couchettes on Overnight Trains

If you are planning on traveling overnight, is that a 1-day ticket or 2? This is an important question, especially if you have limited travel days left. Overnight travel is a great way to get from 1 destination to another without wasting any of your all-important exploration time.

You will no doubt be delighted to know then, that as of 2019, you only need to use 1 day on a Flexi pass to travel on an overnight service. The rule is simple: if you board a train before midnight, but do not change trains after midnight, you are technically on the same day service . This means no matter what time you arrive on day 2, you only need to make a note of your departure date in your travel pass diary.

Sleepers, Couchettes, and Cozy Overnights

There is a real sense of romance and nostalgia about taking a night train through Europe. As you whiz through silent towns and peaceful countryside, the motion of the train will gently rock you to sleep, to wake up refreshed and ready to explore your next destination.

There are different ways to hit the hay on the train, all available at differing prices.

If you like your privacy, you can book a 2, 3, or even 4-berth cabin that offers bunk-style accommodation and usually has its own sink and carpeted floor and comes with freshly laundered linens and super comfortable mattresses. If you want to upgrade even further, some operators offer deluxe compartments with private showers and toilets, towels, toiletries, and other luxury touches.

If you are traveling on your own, you can still share a birth with strangers, usually grouped by gender. Sleepers also offer decent-sized luggage racks with enough room to accommodate the number of guests sharing, as well as lockable doors and even room service.

Power sockets are also often available, and you will have stewards on board who will check your passes and tickets, and that will come to convert the seating area in your compartment into beds at a pre-determined time.

Bottom Line: Sleepers come with a premium price tag, but if you can stretch to it, a night in a sleeper is a wonderful way to travel. A single sleeper could cost you as much as €115 (~$127) on some lines, but a 3 person sleeper can be booked for a more affordable €50 (~$55).

If you don’t mind sharing, these dorm-style rooms are compact but affordable. By day they offer ordinary seating, and at night they are converted to padded ledges with a folded sheet pillow and blanket for you and your fellow travelers to bed down with.

Couchette compartments are usually mixed-sex, but you can ask for a ladies-only compartment if you would feel more comfortable. Couchettes have luggage space both below the beds and in the overhead compartments, and there are usually attendants on hand to keep watch over your compartment as you sleep.

Bottom Line: Prices vary depending on the route and number of people sharing a couchette, but you may find you only pay a small premium for a 4-person couchette vs. a 6-person alternative, giving you more space to spread out for a just a few euros more.

Sample Eurail Itineraries

The possibilities are endless when it comes to planning the route for your next European adventure, but to get you started, here are 4 of the very best:

• Amsterdam, The Netherlands
• Berlin, Germany
• Prague, Czechia
• Vienna, Austria
• Budapest, Hungary
• Zagreb, Croatia
• Lake Bled, Bled, Radovljica, Slovenia

If you want to take in the stunning architecture of some of the oldest cities in the world and learn more about the rich history and culture that made them the most sought after tourist spots in Europe, this is the perfect itinerary for you.

Starting in the “Venice of the North,” in Amsterdam, you can take in the canals, cafes and crazy nightlife of this vibrant city before heading off to Berlin to experience the modern city with a dark past.

The next stop on your journey would be the beautiful city of Prague with its stunning gothic architecture before taking in the famous opera and quaint market squares in Vienna and the classical music of Budapest.

Finally, your journey will take you to the ancient, Adriatic jewel of Zagreb, before ending this leg of your journey at the breathtaking Lake Bled.

• Faro, Portugal
• Lisbon, Portugal
• San Sebastian, Spain
• Milan, Italy
• Rome, Italy
• Naples, Italy
• Athens, Greece

This 8-stop trip is perfect for sun worshippers looking to surf, swim, and soak up the sun at some of the best coastal resorts Europe has to offer.

Starting off in Faro, you can explore the beautiful beaches of the Algarve and the cobbled streets and Moorish architecture of the ancient city. From here you can take a short 4-hour train journey to spend time in the coastal capital of Lisbon, with its Atlantic beaches, ornate architecture, and rich colonialist history.

Cross the border into Spain and take in the coastal resort of San Sabastian, with its picturesque beaches and tranquil waters, before hitting the high life in Monaco. This micro-state on the French border offers beautiful beaches, upscale living, and some of the best nightclubs in the world.

Carry on living the dream in the fashion capital of Milan where you’ll eat, drink and dress like an Italian before chilling out on the beaches on Lake Como. From fashion to the Forum and the Colosseum as you explore the ancient history of Rome , before taking in the Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii on the way to Naples in the South.

Your final stop on this tour is Athens, where you can explore more ancient history including the Acropolis and the Parthenon, before enjoying the beaches of Attica on the Athenian Riviera.

• Madrid, Spain
• Barcelona, Spain
• Lyon, France
• Paris, France
• Bruges, Belgium
• Amsterdam, Netherlands

Starting in the Portuguese coastal capital of Lisbon, you can explore the famous São Jorge Castle, the photogenic pastel-colored buildings, and the amazing suspension bridges that connect the city to the municipality of Almada.

From here you can head to Madrid to take in the fabulous tapas bars, beautiful Baroque architecture, and repositories of modern European art and museums .

Continue to the beachside city of Barcelona with its famous Gothic alleyways, pedestrian walkways, modernist artwork, and electric nightlife, before crossing the border into France. Lyon is famous for its great food, great wine, and Roman-era architecture.

From mid-France head north to the cosmopolitan hub that is Paris. See the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Champs-Elysées and a host of other iconic sights and landmarks in this global center for art, food, fashion, and culture.

After living the high-life in Paris, pop on over to beautiful Bruges to find a more genteel way of life that is nestled away in the canals, cobbled streets, and medieval buildings of the city. Enjoy some of the best chocolate in the world before heading on over to Amsterdam to explore the city’s historic waterways and artistic heritage, then finishing off your adventure at some of the best cafes, bars, and nightclubs in the world.

• Kraków, Poland
• Bratislava, Slovakia
• Bucharest, Romania
• Sofia, Bulgaria
• Belgrade, Serbia
• Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Dubrovnik, Croatia

If you want to make your travel money stretch as far as possible, Eastern Europe offers some of the most affordable cities, packed full of ancient history and fascinating culture.

Starting off in Kraków, you can explore the famous medieval architecture and the Jewish quarter, while enjoying hearty Polish fare and awesome beer. From here you can take a 12-hour train journey to Bratislava to discover an 18th-century old town that is famous for its lively bars and cafes.

From Slovakia, you can cross into Hungary and to the capital city of Budapest with its 13th-century churches, world-famous Opera Hall, and the ancient baths. From Budapest it is on to Bucharest — similar-sounding cities but both with a very different story to tell. The Romanian city is packed full of communist-era heritage and as well as some beautiful 15th-century architecture. It is also known for its thriving nightlife scene.

If you need a break after the nightclubs of Bucharest, the Balkan city of Sofia has a 2,000-year-old history with deep roots in its Greek, Roman, Ottoman, and Soviet occupation, and offer easy access to some of the best Black Sea beaches. From Sofia head on to Serbia to discover Belgrade, a fort city that has been of great importance to the Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, Serbian, and Austrian empires.

Finally, take the train to Sarajevo to explore this thriving city that offers great food, craft beer, and lots of nightlife. Finish off this tour with a stop in Dubrovnik with its distinctive old town, before relaxing on the beautiful Adriatic coastline and islands beyond.

The 10 Best Scenic Train Routes in Europe

There is a multitude of different routes and train lines you can take to capture the real essence of Europe, but when it comes to the scenery, some journeys are just hands down much better than others. Here are 10 of the very best.

With picture-perfect mountains views, pristine vineyards, tranquil lakes, and pretty little villages, there is nowhere more beautifully recognizable than Switzerland for a real taste of Europe. The Golden Pass starts in Lucerne and ends in Montreux, and you can take a regular train or choose the Golden Pass Classic or Golden Pass Panoramic train services.

The Golden Pass is not serviced by a direct train. You will need to switch trains in Interlaken and Zweisimmen, where you can breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy the magical era of the mountain railway.

Both Golden Pass services are covered by the Eurail pass, and you will need to make a reservation to ride.

This is a short but incredibly dramatic ride is so gorgeous that it has earned UNESCO World Heritage Site status. As the trains speeds across stone bridges, through long dark tunnels, and over dramatic-looking viaducts you will take in mile upon mile of spectacular mountain landscapes.

Considered to be one of the greatest feats of civil engineering and railway building ever known, The Semmering Line is part of the Südbahn railway that runs between Vienna and Graz before continuing on to Trieste.

Eurail pass holders do not need to make reservations on this line and there are no additional fees.

Running from St. Pölten through to the pilgrimage destination of Mariazell, Austria’s longest narrow-gauge railway passes through 21 tunnels and crosses 19 viaducts, taking in breathtaking scenery along the way.

The first-class panoramic carriages are available on a seasonal basis and offer panoramic windows and onboard catering service — a must-see if you are visiting the region.

You can use your Eurail passes to travel on the Mariazell Railway and you only need to make a reservation if you wish to upgrade to the first-class carriages.

Take the train from Belgrade to Bar to witness some of the most spectacular scenery Europe has to offer. Traveling over 435 bridges and through 254 tunnels, this route is also a feat of engineering and a testament to the golden age of the railway.

As you head down towards the Adriatic, you can remain on the train or take a break for an overnight stop in the capital city of Podgorica with its historic old town and captivating modern architecture.

This route is covered by the Eurail pass, but you will need to make a reservation before you travel.

If you are heading north, the Rauma Line that runs from Åndalsnes to Dombås, taking in 78 miles (114 km) of world-class Scandinavian scenery is a must-do. Running through the Romsdalen Valley, the train quietly passes by some of the most spectacular mountain formations in Norway as well as the tallest vertical rock face in Europe, the Trollveggen wall.

From the train, you can also see the Kylling Bridge and take in the natural wilderness of the Reinheimen National Park.

The Rauma Line is fully included in your Eurail pass, and you do not need to make a reservation to ride.

This gentle railway route takes a scenic meander along the Rhine for 115 miles (185 km) starting in Cologne and traveling via Bonn, Koblenz, and Bingen to end in the town of Mainz. Running through the heart of the German wine country, you can enjoy mile upon mile of riverside vineyards, castles, and picturesque villages from the comfort of your carriage.

A Eurail Pass that is valid for Germany can also be used for travel on the Rhine Valley lines. Reservations are not necessary. Your Eurail Pass also offers a discount on boats operated by Köln-Düsseldorfer Rheinschiffahrt AG (KD Rhine line). Keep this in mind when traveling to and from the Rhine Valley railway.

Combine the best of both worlds with this train and boat journey across the Swiss Alps. The 5-hour trip offers a diverse range of scenery and the famous Gotthard line is a testament to some of the most impressive pieces of railway engineering, loops, bridges, and tunnels in the world.

Travel from Lucerne in central Switzerland to Lugano in the south, watching the scenery change from snow-capped mountains to palm trees and lakeside beaches.

A journey on the Gotthard Panorama Express is not included in your Eurail pass, and you will need to pay a surcharge to travel on this train. You will, however, get a 50% discount on the fare for your boat trip across Lake Lucerne.

Travel up as far as the Arctic Circle on this amazing railway route that takes you through magnificent forests and past towering peaks. Running from Kristinehamn in central Sweden to the depths of Swedish Lapland at Gällivare, this slow ride across the Land of the Midnight Sun takes in snow-capped peaks, tranquil lakes, herds of reindeer, and perpetual daylight in one of Europe’s most original, untouched landscapes.

Unlike some of the other scenic routes, the Inlandsbanan train is a simple, local affair that stops for breaks along the away to allow passengers to experience traditional Swedish food and meet the locals.

The Inlandsbanan is fully included in your Eurail pass, but you should book your seats in advance to avoid disappointment.

Running between Locarno, Switzerland and Domodossola, Italy, the Centovalli line takes you through the ‘Hundred Valleys,” affording first-class views of some of the most beautiful mountain ranges in Europe.

The train ride is only 2 hours long, making it easily accessible for all, and during its 32 mile (52 km) duration it climbs the slopes to Trontano at about 1640 feet (500 meters), and further up to Santa Maria Maggiore before slowly descending past the beautiful scenery of the Valle Vigezzo and on to Locarno on the shores of Lake Maggiore.

A journey on The Centovalli Railway is fully included in your Eurail pass.

As perhaps one of the most famous railway lines in the world, the Glacier Express runs some 186 miles (300 km) across the Swiss Alps, taking in the stunning scenery between Zermatt and St. Moritz.

This railway line offers a relaxing service with the 8-hour journey being taken on the world’s slowest express train. It offers a comfortable way to see 3 cantons of Valais, Uri, and Graubünden, as well as breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and The Rhine Gorge, the “Grand Canyon” of Switzerland.

This panoramic journey through the heartland of Switzerland is a truly memorable way to see this part of Europe.

The Glacier Express is fully included in your Eurail Pass, but you should reserve your seats in advance to avoid disappointment.

Eurail and Europe Travel Tips

Traveling around Europe by train is easy to do, but there are some tricks that can make your adventure even more successful.

U.S. passport holders will need an ETIAS. ETIAS stands for the European Travel Information and Authorization System and you will be required to complete an online form and receive authorization prior to travel. The fee will be €7 which is just under $8.

Make your plans, but be prepared to be flexible when necessary. There are literally millions of amazing places to visit across the continent, and you will never find the time to see them all.

So, put a rough plan in place by all means. Jot down the places you really want to see how you intend to get there, and how long you want to stay, then go right ahead and go with the flow . Your Eurail pass will give the flexibility to jump on most trains as and when you want to, meaning that poor weather in 1 city or a delay in another won’t derail your plans completely.

Europe is, for the most part, an affordable place to visit due to the sheer number of cheap transport options and budget-friendly accommodations. That said, big cities and major tourist areas will be just as pricey as anywhere in the U.S. or the rest of the world. Knowing how to make your money go further is vital for a successful trip.

Backpackers, youth hostels, Airbnb, and basic budget B&Bs can be found all over the place, so skip the brochures and find an affordable place to stay.

Another great way to make sure you always spend your money wisely is to educate yourself on the exchange rates . While the currency of many European countries is the euro, there are still those outside of the eurozone that use their own currency. These are:

• Bulgaria: Bulgarian lev (BGN)
• Croatia: Croatian kuna (HRK)
• Czech Republic: Czech koruna (CZK)
• Denmark: Danish kroner (DKK)
• Hungary: Hungarian forint (HUF)
• Macedonia: Macedonian denar (MKD)
• Norway: Norwegian krone (NOK)
• Poland: Polish zloty (PLN)
• Romania: Romania leu (RON)
• Serbia: Serbian dinar (RSD)
• Sweden: Swedish krona (SEK)
• Switzerland: Swiss franc (CHF)
• Turkey: Turkish lira (TRL)
• United Kingdom: The Great Britain pound (GBP)

Hot Tip: In general, Eastern European countries offer the very best value for money, while Scandinavian countries can be some of the most expensive places to visit if you don’t dig deep for money-saving opportunities.

Europeans love a good festival, and with so many countries to choose from you are never far from a fun-filled celebration. Whether you choose to run with the bulls or throw squishy tomatoes in Spain, watch yacht races in Croatia or drink beer at Oktoberfest, there are always plenty of unusual occasions to join in with.

Do your research before you depart, as many of these festivals attract visitors from all over the world, meaning you should book tickets and accommodation well in advance.

Knowing what’s going on at your chosen destination works well in reverse, too. If you are looking for a quiet, romantic break, for example, you would be better to avoid some of the bigger, rowdier festivals as they may not be quite what you are looking for.

Whatever kind of accommodation you are looking for, you can be sure to find it in Europe. From cabins in the woods to tents in a field, 5-star hotels to youth hostels, luxury house rentals to flat-shares in the city — Europe has no shortage of excellent accommodation to suit every budget.

You can use hotel booking sites , websites for backpackers and budget-wary travelers, travel agents, internet forums, and even social media sites like Facebook to find accommodation all over Europe.

There are always ways to save money on your stay, even if you can’t bag accommodation as cheaply as you would like to. For example, European cities can be very expensive, and sometimes staying a few miles outside of the center can save you valuable euros.

Hot Tip: Your Eurail pass can also save you money on overnight stays. If you are traveling a long distance, why not book a couchette on the sleeper train — a cheap, fun, and excellent experience on your European adventure.

One of the very best reasons to travel the world is to get to know, understand, and appreciate other customs and cultures different from your own . In Europe, it is the norm to greet each other with a single kiss on the cheek in some countries, and a kiss on both cheeks in others.

Some countries operate on different timescales to others, often dependent on the climate and location. In Spain and Italy, for example, it is not unusual for shops and businesses to close during the heat of the afternoon, only to open again later into the evening. In France, it is normal to enjoy your evening meal quite late into the evening, and these family affairs often include children joining the adults to eat, too.

Bottom Line: While it is fun and interesting to see how customs and cultures change from 1 country to another, be sure that you know when shops are open, if you are expected to tip, or even local holidays, so as not to impact your travel plans in any way.

There are 24 different official languages spoken across Europe, with even more regional variations thrown into the mix still. You would have to be super clever to be conversationally fluent in all of them, but you could still get to know some of the key phrases for the individual countries you intend to visit before you leave.

Knowing how to say “please,” “thank you,” “how much,” and “can I have” are all incredibly helpful anywhere in the world. Not only will you gradually start to learn the local lingo as you listen to replies, but you will also be showing respect for your host nation by trying to speak to them in their own language.

Bottom Line: Whether you read a book, download an app or even go to night school, there are plenty of ways to learn any European language available to you before you set off, or even while you are traveling.

Europe is mostly a very safe place to visit, but as with everywhere in the world, some neighborhoods in large towns or cities can be risky for tourists after dark. Here are a few basic tips to remember:

• Keep your wits about you and watch out for pickpockets in big cities.
• Keep belongings close by at all times.
• Don’t flaunt cash or expensive equipment.
• Be aware of the good old distraction technique when exploring on your own.

There is no reason to feel unsafe, even if you are traveling alone — just use your street smarts and read up on no-go areas or general safety tips for each destination you are planning to visit.

Traveling in Europe is an exciting adventure. With so much to see and do, places to visit, and people to meet, a Eurail pass will allow you to move quickly and easily from 1 city or country to another, in the most stress-free and enjoyable way possible.

Take in the sights, meet new people, and make time to make new memories that will last you a lifetime.

Eurail Pass Alternatives

If the Eurail doesn’t feel right for you, or if indeed you aren’t planning on traveling extensively through Europe but rather staying in 1 single country, there are lots of other travel passes that can also save you money and offer you more flexibility than regular point-to-point tickets. Here are a few that are worth knowing about:

Switzerland is a great country to explore by train, and unlike some other European countries, there are virtually no extra supplements or reservation fees to worry about. You can hop-on and hop-off as often as you like, and take in some of the most beautiful mountain scenery right outside your window.

You can choose between a Swiss Travel Pass that offers continuous free travel, or a Swiss Travel Pass Flex that offers a fixed number of days travel in any 1 month period. Passes start from €220 (~$243), with discounts available for travelers between 16 and 26 years of age. Children under 16 travel free with a paying adult.

You can use the Swiss Travel Pass on a variety of trains, buses, and boats throughout the country.

The Paris Visite Card offers unlimited travel on the Paris Metro, tramway, bus, RER, and SNCF Transilien networks. You can use the pass between zones 1-3 which covers all of central Paris and 84% of all Paris attractions are included free in the Paris Pass.

If you want to travel further out to zone 4 and 5 (to visit the Palace of Versailles for example or travel to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport) there are small supplements you will need to pay.

Your Eurail card will cover you for wider use of the SNCF network, but if you are planning on spending time in Paris, these passes start from as little as €12 (~$13) depending on the zones covered and the number of days you intend to use it for.

Covering The Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg, this pass offers you the freedom to take multiple train journeys on a daily basis and offers discounted rates for travelers under 28 years of age and over 60. You can also choose between a first or second class pass for the duration of your stay. Full price adult passes start from €179 (~$198) for a 3 day travel period over 1 month using a Benelux Saver Pass.

Discover the beaches of the Algarve and the medieval cities of Lisbon and Faro using this handy travel pass, designed to offer reduced fare train travel throughout the country. This pass offers you unlimited travel for 3 or 7 days in a month, and prices start from just €73 (~$81) for an adult 3-day ticket.

You can use your pass on Alfa Pendular, Intercidades, Regional/InterRegional, and Urban trains including the Lisbon Urban Line’s very own Viva Viagem service.

The German railway network is one of the most efficient and advanced in the world, and the German Travel Pass gives you access to lots of different services without having to pay supplements or reservation fees.

There are lots of different options available, including discounts for younger and older travelers, and you can choose from flexible or consecutive travel days depending on your preference.

With typical German efficiency, your pass will offer you unlimited travel throughout Germany, even on the high-speed ICE trains, and you can even travel on selected routes outside of Germany, too.

Renfe offers its very own Spain Pass that includes a discounted set number of journeys on 1 ticket. It does not, however, offer unlimited travel. You can pay for between 4 and 12 journeys in any 1 month period, and there are no hidden reservation fees to worry about. The pass is valid on all AVE Long Distance and Medium Distance trains, but you will need to reserve your seat before your travel.

While this pass does offer unlimited first class travel on the national rail networks of Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Greece, Montenegro, Republic of Macedonia, Serbia, The Serbian Entity of Bosnia Herzegovina, and Turkey, rail travel in the Balkans is already pretty cheap, to begin with.

If you aren’t planning on taking a ton of train trips during your visit, it would probably be cheaper just to book each journey direct. If you do want to go ahead and purchase a pass, you can also travel on certain Attica group ferries, but you will need to reserve your seat in advance.

Prices start from as little as €91 (~$101) for a 3-day pass within a 2 month period.

Travelers to the U.K. can hop on and off trains without reservations or extra fees, either with or without a dedicated rail pass. The public transport system in the U.K. is incredibly easy to use, and while inter-city train tickets can be expensive if purchased on the day of, there are lots of deals to be had if you book in advance.

The BritRail Pass offers travel throughout England, Scotland, and Wales. If you are planning on staying exclusively in London for a longer period of time, you can purchase a visitor travel card for discounted travel across zones 1-6 of the London Underground.

This pass covers Austria, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia. It is even valid on all direct trains through Germany between Kufstein and Salzburg if the passenger does not change or leave the train. This pass has some neat little discounts attached to it, too, including money off Danube River trips and lots of deals on entrance tickets to well-known tourist attractions.

You won’t have to pay any supplements, but reserving your seats in advance is recommended for long-distance journeys. Prices start from €190 (~$210) for 5 days travel in 1 month.

Heading out to explore Europe has been a right of passage for generations of students, backpackers, and budget travelers since the 1950s. The extensive rail networks that crisscross the continent make it super easy to move around freely, taking in some of the most iconic cities, breathtaking scenery, and historical points of interest in the world.

If you are considering heading over to Europe in the near future, a Eurail pass offers you maximum flexibility for an affordable price, meaning you can make plans, change plans, and go ahead and enjoy Europe by rail as much as you want to.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are 2 types of Eurail passes: a 1 Country Pass or the Eurail Global Pass that allows travel in 31 countries. You can choose to travel for as little as 3 days in 1 month to a whole 3 months worth of travel.

Is a Eurail Pass worth it?

Eurail passes are worth purchasing if you want the flexibility of changing your destination and days of travel. If you have fixed dates and destinations, and can book in advance, this may well be cheaper. It is also worth noting that Eurail passes have discounts for those under the age of 28 or over 60.

Can you use a Eurail Pass on Eurostar?

You can use a Eurail pass on Eurostar provided you book in advance and pay a seat reservation fee. You must also have either a Eurail Global Pass or a Eurail pass that is valid in the destination you are traveling to on Eurostar (i.e. France, Belgium or The Netherlands).

What countries are included in a Eurail Pass?

There are 31 countries that are included with an Eurail Global Pass. You can view a full list of countries here .

How much is a Eurail Pass?

For a Eurail Global Pass, a standard second class adult pass for 3 days in 1 month is $247 (€224) rising to $1023 (€926) for a full 3 months of travel.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Unlocking Europe: Your ultimate pocket guide to Europe train passes

Travel Europe Train Passes

Embark on a seamless European adventure with our ultimate guide to train passes. A Europe train pass is your golden ticket to unlock the vast rail networks of Europe. This comprehensive guide unveils the wonders of Eurail, Interrail, and Swiss Rail Passes, whether you're opting for a single-country escapade with a one-country pass or a global pass for multi-country adventures. Set out on a hassle-free journey through Europe's stunning landscapes, letting the rails weave the story of your adventure.

What are Europe train passes?

A rail pass allows multiple train rides across one or more European countries for a set duration. Offering flexibility and cost savings, the rail pass is ideal for spontaneous adventures and value-conscious travelers. In contrast, point-to-point train tickets are your go-to for a one-of journey between specific destinations. These can be easily purchased at the stations or online and are suitable if you plan to use the train just once or twice.

Why buy train passes in Europe?

• Efficient connectivity: Hopping between cities has never been easier. Enjoy multiple train rides to even remote parts of Europe all with a single train pass.
• Time-saver: Wave goodbye to long ticket queues and complicated procedures and hello to quick train adventures.
• Budget-friendly: Multiple train journeys cost lesser with a rail pass as compared to individual tickets.
• Hassle-free: Rail passes are easy to use and conveniently accommodates spontaneous trip plans.
• Customization: Various customizable pass options let you create a pass that best fits your travel intend.
• Inclusions: Rail passes often come with various perks like discounted public transit access in city or entry to musuems, all of which, make it more desirable.

Is a Europe train pass suitable for you?

To determine if a rail pass is ideal for your next European adventure, consider your itinerary.

Questions to ask yourself:

• Duration: How many days will you ride the train? For a short one-day journey, a pass may not be cost-effective. The more you travel in trains, the more a pass makes sense.
• Destinations: Planning a multi-country tour? A Global Pass is your ally. The more countries you visit, the greater the value of the pass for your country-hopping escapade. If you're exploring an entire country, consider using the one-country pass option to save money on travel costs."

Make an informed choice:

• Estimate point-to-point costs: Calculate your potential spending on individual tickets for a rough comparison.
• Pass price comparison: Explore pass options for your region and travel duration, and make a comparison to individual tickets. You will then be able to see if the rail pass is of value for your next trip.

What are the different types of Europe train passes?

Eurail pass.

• Ideal for non-European residents.
• Unlocks seamless travel across multiple European countries.

Learn more about Eurail Passes

Interrail Pass

• Perfect for European residents.
• Offers flexible travel options within the extensive European rail network.

Learn more about Interrail Passes

Swiss Travel Pass

• Tailored for those exploring Switzerland.
• Grants access to the picturesque Swiss Travel System, including trains, buses, and boats.

Learn more about Swiss Travel Passes

Do I need an Interrail Pass or a Eurail Pass?

The pricing for both Eurail and Interrail Passes is identical. Choosing between Interrail and Eurail Passes depends on residency.

• Interrail Pass: For European residents.
• Eurail Pass: Designed for non-European residents.

Read more about differences between Eurail and Interrail Passes on our page Eurail vs Interrail

Eurail Passes: Your gateway to Europe

What is eurail pass.

Available in multiple options, a Eurail Pass, caters to an easy European exploration tailored to your itinerary. Opt for a One Country Pass for immersive single-nation experiences or embrace the flexibility of a Global Pass, unlocking a continent of possibilities. Choose between the convenience of a Continuous Pass to travel multiple days in a row or the freedom of a Flexible Pass to travel for a fixed number of days in a timeframe. Explore more on our dedicated Eurail Pass guide page for a comprehensive guide to maximize your European adventure.

Eurail Global Pass

The Eurail Global Pass opens doors to boundless travel across Europe. Choose the Continuous Pass for non-stop exploration with a validity of multiple days in a row or opt for the Flexi Pass, which offers freedom with travel days spread over a timeframe. Uncover the details on our dedicated Eurail Global Pass page and see if it is the right fit for you.

Eurail One Country Pass

Tailor your journey with the Eurail One Country Pass, ideal for those planning to explore the charm of a single European destination. Elevate your vacation experience with detailed insights on our dedicated Eurail One Country Pass page.

How to use Eurail Pass?

Unlocking the full potential of your Eurail Pass is a breeze:

• Choose the global or single-country pass
• Choose flexi or continuous pass
• Choose the validity period
• Choose age-appropriate pass
• Activate your pass
• Reserve your seats

For a more information on using Eurail Pass, read our detailed guide on how to use Eurail Pass.

Eurail countries, routes & map

Embark on a Eurail journey across 33 countries, with top picks like:

• Switzerland

Discover the richness of European marvels and find out the whole list of countries served by the Eurail Pass on our page dedicated to Eurail countries.

Routes & map: Explore the extensive Eurail rail network effortlessly. Utilize our online interactive Eurail map to plan your route with ease. Seamless European adventures await!

When and how to reserve seats with Eurail Pass?

There are multiple benefits to reserving your seats:

• Guaranteed Seats: Ensure comfort on long or crowded journeys with reserved seats.
• Mandatory Reservation: In Italy, Spain, and select countries, reservations are essential, especially for high-speed and night trains.

You can reserve your seats with Eurail Pass online. For a detailed guide, check out our page on Eurail seat reservations.

Quick FAQs about the Eurail Pass

What is the cost of a eurail pass.

Eurail Pass prices vary with the type of pass,. However, they start from €258. 

What are the different types of Eurail Passes?

The different types of Eurail Passes include the Global Pass, One Country Pass, Flexi Pass, and Continuous Pass, catering to different travel preferences.

What is the validity period of a Eurail Pass?

You can activate your Eurail Pass anytime within 11 months post-purchase. The number of days the pass remains valid once activated depends on the duration of your pass. 

Does Eurail offer reduced pricing for children?

Eurail Pass is available at discounted rates not just for children, but also for senior citizens and youth, making it even more valuable for budget travelers.

What is Eurail Flexi Pass?

The Eurail Flexi Pass offers the freedom to choose travel days within a set timeframe, providing flexibility for intermittent train journeys across Europe.

What is Eurail Continuous Pass?

The Eurail Continuous Pass allows uninterrupted travel for a consecutive number of days, ideal for those planning continuous exploration without fixed breaks.

Interrail Passes for a seamless European trip

What is interrail pass.

Tailored for European residents, it offers flexibility and access to Europe's extensive rail network. With various pass options, including Global Pass, One Country Pass, Flexi Pass, and Continuous Pass, Interrail opens doors to a continent of experiences, tailored to suit your travel preference. Get to know more about Interrail pass on our comprehensive guide to Interrail Pass .

Interrail Global Pass

Embark on boundless exploration with the Interrail Global Pass, specifically crafted for European residents, granting access to 33 European countries. Choose the Continuous Pass for seamless travel or the Flexi Pass for flexible journeys with travel days spread over your preferred timeframe. Discover more on our dedicated Interrail Global Pass page.

Interrail One Country Pass

Set out to explore a single European nation with the Interrail One Country Pass, exclusively designed for European residents. This pass is perfect for vacations focused on one country, and offers unlimited travel within your chosen nation. Discover more on our dedicated Interrail One Country Pass page.

How to use Interrail Pass?

Unlocking the full potential of your Interrail Pass is simple:

• Choose the validity period 
• Choose an age-appropriate pass

Explore our detailed guide on how to use Interrail Pass for a smooth travel experience.

Interrail countries, routes & map

Kickstart your Interrail journey across 33 countries, with top picks like:

Survey the entire list of Interrail countries accessible with an Interrail Pass and discover the richness of European marvels.

Routes & map: Explore the extensive Interrail rail network effortlessly. Utilize our online interactive map to meticulously plan your route. Seamless European adventures await on our dedicated Interrail Map page.

When and how to reserve seats with Interrail Pass?

Sit back and relax on your train journey by reserving your train seats:

• Confirmed Seats: Ensure your comfort on lengthy or crowded journeys by choosing to reserve a seat.
• Mandatory Reservations: Some countries, including France and Spain, and, high-speed and night trains, mandate train seat reservations.

Reserve your seats with Interrail Pass online. For a comprehensive guide, visit our page on Interrail seat reservations .

Quick FAQs about Interrail Passes

What is the cost of an interrail pass.

Interrail Pass is available in various prices starting from €258. 

What are the different types of Interrail Passes?

Interrail Pass comes with multiple options like the Global Pass, One Country Pass, Flexi Pass, and Continuous Pass, catering to varied travel preferences.

What is the validity period of an Interrail Pass?

Interrail Pass can be activated anytime within 11 months post-purchase. The number of days the pass remains valid once activated depends on the duration of your pass. 

Does Interrail offer reduced pricing for senior citizens?

Interrail Pass is available at discounted rates not just for senior citizens, but also for children and youth, making it even more valuable for budget travelers.

What is Interrail Flexi Pass?

Choose travel days at your pace with the Interrail Flexi Pass, providing freedom within a designated timeframe for intermittent train journeys across Europe.

What is Interrail Continuous Pass?

Enjoy uninterrupted exploration with the Interrail Continuous Pass, allowing consecutive travel days for those planning continuous European adventures without fixed breaks.

Can the Interrail Pass be used within the traveler's country of residence?

Interrail Pass is sold only to residents of Europe, but they cannot be used in the passenger's country of residence for more than two journeys. You can take one journey to exit the country of residence and one to return. 

Swiss Travel Pass: Discovering Swiss Alps and beyond

What is a swiss travel pass.

Swiss Travel Pass ensures seamless exploration of Switzerland through its efficient travel system. From trains to buses and boats, experience the beauty of the Swiss landscape. Scenic rides, such as the Golden Pass Express and Glacier Express, add to the Pass's allure. Enjoy added perks, including museum access, making your Swiss adventure even more delightful! Know more about the pass on our detailed Swiss travel pass guide page.

Types of Swiss Travel Pass

• Swiss Continuous Travel Pass: Unlimited access to the Swiss Travel System for consecutive days and with free entrance to over 480 museums and exhibitions.
• Swiss Flexible Travel Pass: Offers flexibility in choosing your travel days as you get to travel 3, 4, 8, or 15 non-consecutive days within a month.
• Swiss Half Fare Card: Travel throughout Switzerland at half price on transport tickets.
• Swiss Coupon Pass: Attractive discounts in 11 different destinations.

How to use Swiss Travel Pass?

• Upon payment, receive email confirmation
• Reserve your seat before your journey begins. For some trains, it's mandatory
• Activate the Swiss Flexi Travel Pass at www.activateyourpass.com using the booking voucher receipt
• Print out Swiss Half Fare Card & Swiss Continuous Travel Pass PDFs, attached to the email
• For Swiss Flexi Travel Pass, produce the activated travel day ticket digitally or physically upon inspection

Find more details on how to use and activate your Swiss Travel Pass on our dedicated blog.

Explore scenic train routes with Swiss Travel Pass

• Bernina Express: A captivating four-hour journey through the majestic Alps.
• Glacier Express: Savour the panoramic views through the Swiss Alps at a relaxed pace.
• Golden Pass: Choose from three scenic routes of Switzerland or hop on the Chocolate Train.
• Gotthard Panorama Express: A journey through stunning Swiss landscapes.
• Luzern-Interlaken Express: Explore the heart of Switzerland's scenic beauty on your journey between two world-class tourist destinations.

Swiss Travel Pass routes and maps

The Swiss Travel Pass unlocks a web of scenic rail routes, linking iconic destinations like Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, and more. Discover the extensive rail network and routes with our Swiss Travel map here and explore the breathtaking landscapes seamlessly.

How to reserve seats with Swiss Travel Pass?

For a more comfortable travel experience, reserve your seat in advance before embarking on your Swiss adventure. On some trains, reservations are obligatory or automatically included in the ticket price. For specific scenic trains like the Bernina Express or the Glacier Express, reach out to a public transport point of sale for seat reservations.

Quick FAQs about Swiss Travel Pass

What is the cost of a swiss travel pass.

A Swiss Travel Pass is available at various price ranges starting from CHF 124.86. 

What is Swiss Flexible Travel Pass ?

With the Swiss Flexible Travel Pass, enjoy the flexibility of non-consecutive travel days within a month, tailoring your Swiss adventure to your schedule.

What is Swiss Half Fare Card?

Swiss Half Fare Card offers half-priced passage on trains, buses, and boats, making them your ticket to economical and picturesque travel throughout Switzerland.

Are there discounts for Swiss Travel Pass for children?

Swiss Travel Passes are available at reduced rates for children and youth. 

Are premium scenic trains covered by the Swiss Travel Pass?

You can enjoy journeys on premium scenic trains like Bernina Express, Glacier Express, Gotthard Panorama Express, Luzern-Interlaken Express, and more with a Swiss Travel Pass.

How do I make purchases with a Swiss Half Fare Card?

If you are purchasing tickets with a Swiss Half Fare Card, you need to show your card at the ticket counters while getting them offline. You will have the option to choose the Swiss Half Fare Card discount at check-out while getting tickets online. This way you can avail of the 50% discount that comes with the Swiss Half Fare Card. 

Scenic train routes included in Europe train passes

• Bergen Railway Route: Bergen to Oslo Country: Norway
• Flam Railway Route: Flam to Myrdal Country: Norway
• Rauma Line: Route: Åndalsnes to Dombås Country: Norway
• Inlandsbanan Route: Kristinehamn to Gällivare Country: Sweden
• Rhine Valley Line Route: Cologne to Mainz Country: Germany
• Black Forest Railway Route: Offenburg to Singen Country: Germany
• Semmering Bahn Route: Gloggnitz to Mürzzuschlag Country: Austria
• Salzkammergut Railway Route: Stainach-Irdning to Attnang-Puchheim Country: Austria
• Albergline Scenic Train Route: Landeck to Bludenz Country: Austria
• Oravita Anina Line Route: Oravita to Aninaz Country: Romania
• Belgrade-Bar Railway Route: Belgrade to Bar Country: Serbia/Montenegro
• Rhodope Narrow Gauge Route: Septemvri to Dobrinishte Country: Bulgaria
• Bernina Express Route: Chur to Tirano Country: Switzerland/Italy
• Centovalli Railway Route: Locarno to Domodossola Country: Switzerland/Italy
• Glacier Express Route: St-Moritz to Zermatt Country: Switzerland
• GoldenPass Line Route: Lucerne to Interlaken to Montreux Country: Switzerland
• Gotthard Panorama Express Route: Lugano/Bellinzona to Lucerne Country: Switzerland
• Cinque Terre Route: La Spezia to Levanto Country: Italy
• Gornergrat Railway Route: Zermatt to Gornergrat Country: Switzerland
• Rigi Bahn Route: Vitznau/Arth-Goldau to Rigi-Kulm Country: Switzerland
• Pilatusbahn Route: Alpnachstad to Mount Pilatus Country: Switzerland

Frequently asked questions about Europe train passes

Which europe train pass is suitable for european residents.

Interrail Pass and Swiss Travel Pass are ideal for European residents.

Which Europe train pass is suitable for non-European residents?

Eurail Pass and Swiss Travel Pass are recommended for non-European residents.

Does Europe have a train pass for tourists?

Eurail, Interrail and Swiss Travel Pass are the three major Europe train passes. Tourists can select their pass as per their residency and their travel preference.  

What is not covered by Eurail & Interrail Pass?

Eurail and Interrail Passes do not cover mandatory seat reservations on specific trains, which need to be purchased separately.

What modes of transport are included in the Swiss Travel Pass?

Swiss Travel Pass includes trains, buses, and boats, offering comprehensive transportation coverage across Switzerland.

Which Europe train pass is recommended for traveling across Switzerland by train?

For traveling across Switzerland by train, the Swiss Travel Pass is highly recommended. You can also purchase Interrail or Eurail's Switzerland country pass to explore Switzerland by train.

Can I travel through Switzerland by train using Interrail Pass?

Yes, you can travel through Switzerland by train using Interrail Switzerland Pass.

Are night trains covered by Eurail and Interrail Passes?

Yes, night trains are generally covered by both Eurail and Interrail Passes, offering a convenient way to maximize travel time. However, you might need to reserve seats on them before the journey.

Maria Philip

Every friend's gang has that one friend who plans the trip, finds cute little spots to explore great views and food, and keeps cool trivia handy. I am that friend. I like to know before I go, keep things under budget, and help others do the same through my writing. Someone once said, ‘Traveling makes you a storyteller’ and it stuck with me to do more traveling and telling. You will find me the happiest in quiet spots under thick green canopies, over a delicious spread of my comfort foods, or while loudly singing my favorite tunes, or engaging in silly banter with friends and family, or on the window seat of a moving bus or train with music plugged in. The list is longer, but you get the gist!

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The first to know about trending destinations, travel deals, tips and all things travel.

Two new countries just joined Europe's passport-free travel zone

O ne of the biggest things that surprise American travelers  moving across several European countries  for the first time is just how easy it can be to cross between borders. When traveling by train, one can easily discover that you are in a different country only by looking out the window and noticing that the language on the station signs is different.

Established in 1995, the Schengen Zone is an area of open borders between many of the countries making up the European Union. The goal was to remove the need for internal borders within countries that already have freedom of work and movement as well as establish a common EU area.

Related: A country just went visa-free for visitors with any passport

While the initial signatories to the Schengen Agreement were only Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands, the idea worked incredibly well and more and more nations joined over the next 30 years. On March 31, the coalition of 27 countries increased by the partial addition of Bulgaria and Romania — two nations that had long been slated to join the Schengen Zone but needed to complete a number of steps to prove that they properly address illegal migration.

Two more countries partially join 'the largest area of free movement in the world'

The two countries' ascension grants EU citizens and visitors who have already crossed through another port of entry free access by air and sea but requires some identity document checks at certain land borders for the time being. Bulgaria and Romania have been on the pathway to join the Schengen Zone since 2007.

More travel stories:

• A new travel term is taking over the internet (and reaching airlines and hotels)
• The 10 best airline stocks to buy now
• Airlines see a new kind of traveler at the front of the plane

"I welcome the lifting of internal air and sea border checks," Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, said in a statement. "This is a great success for both countries and a historic moment for the Schengen area — the largest area of free movement in the world."

Prior to this change, Croatia was the last country to join the Schengen Zone in January 2022. The land borders for Bulgaria and Romania remain due to resistance from the member state of Austria about illegal immigration flowing west through those two countries. The partial ascension was called out by some lawmakers who felt like they were being asked to hit a moving target not required of other countries.

Here is what the change will mean for travelers passing through these countries by land, air and sea

"Bulgaria and Romania have been fulfilling all criteria for joining the Schengen area for years – we are entitled to join with the terrestrial border as well," Romanian European Parliament Member Siegfried Muresan  said to  the Associated Press. "[The partial membership] will offer additional arguments to the last EU member state that has been vetoing the full accession.”

Those coming into Bulgaria or Romania by plane or ship from another EU country will not need to show their passport at the airport or port crossing. Both countries have, in recent years, have seen a significant burst of tourist interest as off-the-radar European destinations that have become particularly popular following the pandemic but the vast majority of border movement occurs by land.

Maps of the April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

By Jonathan Corum

On April 8, the moon will slip between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow across a swath of North America: a total solar eclipse.

By cosmic coincidence, the moon and the sun appear roughly the same size in the sky. When the moon blocks the glare of the sun, the sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, will be briefly visible.

Below are several maps of the eclipse’s path as well as images of what you might experience during the event.

Where Can I See the Total Eclipse?

The eclipse will begin at sunrise over the Pacific Ocean, then cut through Mexico and cross the United States from Texas to Maine. Most of North America will see a partial eclipse, but viewers within the deepest shadow — a band sliding from Mazatlán, Mexico, to the Newfoundland coast near Gander, Canada — will experience a total solar eclipse.

Percentage of

the sun obscured

during the eclipse

Indianapolis

Little Rock

San Antonio

Viewers inside the path of the total eclipse may notice a drop in temperature , a lull or shift in the wind , the appearance of bright planets in the sky, and the quieting of birds and other wildlife.

Many cities lie inside the path of the total eclipse, as shown below, the width of which varies from 108 miles to 122 miles.

5:13 p.m. NDT

20% partial eclipse

NEWFOUNDLAND

SASKATCHEWAN

Fredericton

4:33 p.m. ADT

3:26 p.m. EDT

3:20 p.m. EDT

Minneapolis

3:18 p.m. EDT

3:13 p.m. EDT

San Francisco

90% partial eclipse

3:05 p.m. EDT

Los Angeles

1:51 p.m. CDT

1:40 p.m. CDT

1:33 p.m. CDT

12:16 p.m. CST

12:12 p.m. CST

11:07 a.m. MST

Mexico City

EL SALVADOR

12:23 p.m. CST

1:36 p.m. CDT

3:09 p.m. EDT

3:27 p.m. EDT

Explore our interactive cloud outlook for eclipse viewing times and average cloud data at your location.

What Will I See?

A composite image of the 2017 solar eclipse over Madras, Ore.

Aubrey Gemignani/NASA

If the sky is clear, viewers in the path of the total eclipse should see a “diamond ring” effect a few seconds before and after the total eclipse, as the edge of the sun slips in and out of view.

The “diamond ring” effect during the 2017 solar eclipse.

Rami Daud/NASA, Alcyon Technical Services

The sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, is normally hidden by the sun’s glare. These tendrils and sheets of gas, heated to a million degrees Fahrenheit or more, are in constant motion and shaped by the sun’s swirling magnetic field.

The sun’s corona during the 2017 solar eclipse.

The sun is relatively active this year and is nearing the expected peak of its 11-year solar cycle . Researchers at Predictive Science are using data about the sun’s magnetic field to predict and model a dramatic corona for the April eclipse.

A prediction of how the sun’s corona might appear during the April 8 total eclipse.

Predictive Science

What Colors Should I Wear?

As the sky darkens, light-sensitive cells in human eyes become more sensitive to blue and green hues than to reds and oranges. This shift in color perception is known as the Purkinje effect , after a 19th-century Czech scientist, and is typically seen at twilight.

Watching the 2017 total eclipse at Southern Illinois University.

Andrea Morales for The New York Times

To take advantage of the Purkinje effect, Solar Eyeglasses suggests wearing green clothes or a contrasting combination of greens and reds. Blue-green colors (shorter wavelengths) will appear brighter, while red colors (longer wavelengths) will appear to recede into the darkness.

What If I Miss It?

The next two total solar eclipses in the United States won’t occur until 2044 and 2045 . But eclipse chasers might catch one in 2026 in Greenland, Iceland and Spain; 2027 along the coast of Northern Africa; 2028 in Australia and New Zealand; or 2030 across Southern Africa and Australia.

A Total Solar Eclipse Is Coming. Here’s What You Need to Know.

These are answers to common questions about the April 8 eclipse, and we’re offering you a place to pose more of them.

By Katrina Miller

What’s the Cloud Forecast for Eclipse Day? See if the Weather Is on Your Side.

April 8 could be your best opportunity to see a total solar eclipse for decades. But if clouds fill the sky, you may miss the spectacle.

By Josh Katz, K.K. Rebecca Lai and William B. Davis

• Share full article

Our Coverage of the Total Solar Eclipse

Dress for the Occasion:  What should you wear for the eclipse? Our fashion critic weighs the options , including an unexpected suggestion from scientists.

Free to View:  Six inmates in upstate New York prisons who sued the state won their lawsuit to view the eclipse , arguing it “is a religious event.” But a statewide prison lockdown during the eclipse will remain in place.

Hearing the Eclipse:  A device called LightSound is being distributed to help the blind and visually impaired experience what they can’t see .

Sky-High Hotel Prices: One Super 8 hotel in the eclipse’s path is charging $949 a night . Its normal rate is $95.

Animal Reactions : Researchers will watch if animals at zoos, homes and farms act strangely  when day quickly turns to night.

A Rare Return:  A total solar eclipse happens twice in the same place every 366 years on average. But people in certain areas will encounter April 8’s eclipse  about seven years after they were near the middle of the path of the “Great American Eclipse.”

 No Power Outages:  When the sky darkens during the eclipse, electricity production in some parts of the country will drop so sharply that it could theoretically leave tens of millions of homes in the dark. In practice, hardly anyone will notice  a sudden loss of energy.

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Using the Eurail Trip Planner

To find your perfect rail Pass, simply fill out the following details:

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2. Your trip's start date and (expected) end date.

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You can change these details anytime in the next step of our Trip Planner.

Hitting the 'Go' button will take you to the map view of our Trip Planner. Here you can plan out a European adventure and see what Pass best fits your plans.

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