train travel for pensioners

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Passenger Discount for Seniors

Seniors Save 10%

Amtrak travelers 65 years of age and over are eligible to receive a 10% discount on most rail fares on most Amtrak trains. On cross-border services operated jointly by Amtrak and VIA Rail Canada, a 10% Senior discount is applicable to travelers aged 60 and over.

Discount Limitations

• Does not apply to non-Acela Business class, First class or sleeping accommodation. These upgrades are permitted upon payment of the full accommodation charges.
• Not valid for travel on certain Amtrak Thruway connecting services.
• May not be combinable with other discount offers; refer to the terms and conditions for each offer.
• Additional restrictions may apply.

Valid proof of age is required when purchasing your ticket and on board the train.

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Senior Savings on European Train Travel: The Ultimate Guide to the Discounts

Expert Wanderer

Savvy seniors over the age of 60 can get a range of discounts on the European railroads. For frequent travel in a specific country, you can purchase a country-specific senior discount pass. There are also Interrail and Eurail discounts that work out OK for heavy travel in a short period. However , most countries offer no worthwhile senior discounts if you’re just visiting the country for a short time—but we’ve still got some ways that you can save .

Read on for our complete guide to senior discounts and other savings on my favorite way to cross the European continent: train trav el.

This article was first published on May 23, 2019. It was given a full update by the editorial staff in June of 2022. Updated again in January of 2023. Minor updates in November of 2023.

My Interest in Senior Travel Discounts on European Trains

I’m a travel writer and constant train traveler in Europe and elsewhere, always in search of the best deals. I’ve arrived at the age where several of my classmates have posted their AARP membership invitations on Facebook recently. ( This is an organization for older Americans whose membership offers a wide range of benefits including travel discounts.) But since I am mainly based in Europe, I wanted to look into travel benefits available to seniors and retirees here. I don’t qualify quite yet, but you’d better believe I’ll soon be taking advantage of as many of these discounts as possible. In the meantime, I hope the i nformation below can help some of you.

How Old Do I Have to Be for Senior Discounts on European Trains?

Senior discounts on European trains are available when you hit 60, 65, or even 70 in some cases. Read the individual country sections below for details. Generally they involve buying a national senior card (an annual subscription) in order to get the discounts, and so are only worthwhile if you’re travelling extensively in a particular country.

Why European Train Travel is Great for Seniors

• Trains in Europe are more comfortable and friendly. Airports and airplanes are notoriously difficult to deal with, and the stress is compounded as you get older. Seated in a train, you have more room to get comfortable, travel with whatever luggage you need, and the easy ability to get up and move around.
• For many destinations within Europe, train travel can actually be quicker than traveling by plane, especially when you add in all the extra time it takes to get to the airport, wait around for two hours, factor in delays, stand in line to get your passport checked, and wait for your luggage to come off the carousel. European trains tend to depart and arrive right in the centers of the places you want to visit , and the high speed trains, aside from being technological marvels, save you lots of time.
• Train travel is sometimes less expensive than traveling by plane, especially when you factor in available discounts. There are very few airlines that offer senior discounts. And if you’re taking a cheap flight on a low-cost airline, you often have to pay extra to for a larger piece of luggage (which is checked). This is not usually the case on trains.
• Want to bring your pet on vacation? Trains don’t usually charge extra for your furry friend , nor do they make them travel separately in a luggage hold. As long as your pet is kept in a carrier or muzzled, they can ride the rails with you by their side.
• You can get up and stretch your legs on trains . Sure, you can do this on a plane, too, but only for a quick trip to the bathroom and back. If you want to walk up and down the length of the train, no one is going to stop you.
• There’s usually a restaurant on board . You don ’t have to wait for the cart to come by before eating like you do on planes. When you’re hungry, just head to the dining car. If you’re sitting in first class, you might even have the option of ordering food from a staff member as they come through the compartment.
• Speaking of helpful staff , there are also generally people on hand to help you with your luggage , give you information about your destination, tell you where to make your connection, or even give you advice on how to travel in the most inexpensive and convenient way possible.
• Then there’s the scenery . Europe has some drop-dead gorgeous views (our picks for Switzerland) that can be (best!) enjoyed from train windows.
• Finally, trains are better for the environ ment . Like, a lot better. EcoPassenger has a calculator that shows you how much of an impact your travel has on Mother Earth.

General Info About Senior Rail Discounts in Europe

While there are typically discounts on local and regional lines as well, this post focuses on each country’s national train service. But note that some national rail companies do include local transportation in their networks and senior discount packages, as well as deals on bike, bus, ferry, tram, and subway travel.

Some also include additional benefits like special offers on accommodations, restaurants, and tours.

The discounts generally apply to 2nd class travel, but I’ve noted when they can be used to upgrade to 1st class.

Finally, when taking advantage of senior discounts on European train travel, be sure to carry a photo ID with you that shows your date of birth. Some of us don’t look our age!

Are Senior Rail Passes and Discounts Really Worth It?

There are actually a lot of instances when it’s not worth trying to get the senior discounts that we discuss in this article, especially if don’t reside in Europe.

Senior discounts are generally applied to full-fare ticket prices only, so be sure to look for other opportunities to save. For example, see our in-depth guide to strategies for finding cheap train tickets in France as well as the other articles on other countries’ systems on this site.

• Often the early booking prices or weekend travel specials or other deals are a better deal than the senior discount.
• Many major destinations like France, Germany, and Spain offer reduced fares only with the purchase of an annual discount card; the overall cost is usually not worth it if you are visiting the country for a short time.
• Dealing with the red tape necessary to get a pass might not make it worth your time. Some countries want you to be a national resident with a local address to which they mail the senior card once it’s purchased. Others require specific documents like paperwork showing that you’re a pensioner.

The easiest one-stop way to check for specific European train route prices is Trainline . It offers generally the same prices as each national carrier, and will automatically direct you to senior discounts for countries when it can (and you have already gone through the paperwork for the national senior card—which it can point you to). Trainline is far easier to use than most national booking sites, and, in some cases, can save you money on complex trips — like those with multiple connections or international border crossings. The downside is that Trainline charges a small booking fee (~3%), though that’s less than other booking sites. It’s usually well worth it for the ability to book in advance via internet and without a hassle.

For general strategies that work for all ages, check out our advice on how to book cheap train tickets for Europe .

Eurail and Interrail Passes for Senior Travelers — Are They Worth It?

Before moving on to the individual countries, it is worth noting that there are the popular Eurail Senior Pass (for non-EU travelers) and Interrail Senior Pass (for European residents), which offer senior discounts on their single and multi-country passes. Essentially, if you’re 60 or over on your first day of travel, you can get a 10% discount on a pass that lets you take certain types of trains as you cross through a particular country—or all of Europe.

Keep in mind that these Eurail/Interrail passes are for serious travellers who plan on doing a lot of traveling within a short time period — they were originally meant for backpackers and gap years travelers. If you’re a spry senior crossing countries off your bucket list quickly, then by all means, consider a pass.

Otherwise, you might find other options more practical and economical. At this (minimalist!) site, we tend to encourage slow travel and getting to really know each location for more than a couple of days, so for us, these passes are rarely worth their cost for that kind of travel.

To quickly check if Interrail/Eurail is worth the cost for you on your preferred series of train rides through Europe, make up a sample itinerary with the spots you most want to see and count the number of days of travel that entails. Then:

• Add up the total cost of both the senior pass linked to above and the cost seat reservations (you can check those here for Interrail or Eurail ). Seat reservations are required when using these passes for Europe’s lovely high speed and overnight trains. In particular, seat reservations are almost always required for France, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden. They can add significantly to trip costs and often make the cost of the pass itself less worthwhile.
• Compare the same itinerary on Trainline , which will efficiently find the best individual tickets for most of Western Europe including senior discounts if applicable. (For the countries not served by Trainline, see the individual train operators in the country listings below.) There are certain types of trains that you have access to when not using a pass, such as budget high-speed private train operators, that can make this à la carte option both cheaper and faster, particularly for France, Spain, and Italy.
• If you want to go even cheaper (but not as comfortably), Trainline can also show you bus options.

We have done a much more in-depth discussion of when and whether Eurail and Interrail actually save money .

Masks and Covid-19 Restrictions When Travelling by Train in Europe

The restrictions on masks, negative tests, and vaccinations have generally been lifted for travelers in Europe as of spring 2023. For piece of mind if you want to make sure that you can travel to a specific place and meet the requirements, you can easily check the official EU site for requirements for re-opening here ; there is information updated for each country.

It is certainly acceptable to wear masks in transport and many people still do so.

European Senior Discounts on Train Travel by Country

We haven’t yet been able to cover senior travel in Albania, Belarus, Georgia, Greece, Ireland, Kosovo, Latvia, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Serbia, or Ukraine. Soon, we hope .

Most of the senior discount cards discussed below must be purchased annually and entitle you to discounts throughout the year.

There are no trains in Andorra.

Austria’s ÖBB offers the Vorteilscard Senior for passengers over the age of 65 at a cost of €29. You need to have an address in Austria where this can be mailed to you.

Or this card is available for free at train ticket counters upon presentation of “proof of eligibility”, which seems to mean being a resident senior in Austria receiving state benefits (“a compensatory or supplementary allowance”).

The senior card gives you generally 50% off of second class fares on ÖBB trains. Some regional trains already have senior citizen discounts on tickets which are greater than this 50%. The card also allows free travel on your birthday.

ÖBB provides a calculator to help you determine if this card is worthwhile; many major routes and otherwise discounted fares are not included in the discount.

Otherwise, tickets for the Austrian train system can be purchased directly from the ÖBB English site or (much easier, but with less complete offerings for Austria) Trainline .

Alternatively seniors can also buy a family card for travel with up to four children completely free of charge—compared to the half-price they would normally pay.

Belgium’s Seniors Ticket allows for same-day return tickets throughout the country for a low flat rate of 7.20€ in 2nd class or 15.30€ in 1st class. (If you want to return on a different day, you simply buy two of these tickets; one for each day.)

Travelers over the age of 65 can buy this Seniors Ticket online or at SNCB ticket offices.

This is not valid for Brussels Airport, for which a supplement is needed.

It is also not valid for travel to border points or international travel outside of this tiny country. If you are travelling to/from a neighboring country you’ll need to get a full-priced ticket from the Belgian Train’s pretty excellent English site or else from Trainline , which will often find cheaper routing options.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

A 30% discount is offered to Bosnian citizens over the age of 60 and their spouses when traveling together. The discount applies to 1st and 2nd class fares.

A retirement pass for in-country travel is offered but it appears to be only available to residents with a national “retirement certificate”. It gives retirees a 50% discount on tickets and passes. This discount applies to women over the age of 60 years and 8 months and men over the age of 63 years and 8 months. Enquire at ticket offices or train stations in Bulgaria.

The Railcard “S” is also available for international travel for those over the age of 60. This card costs a little over 15€ and is good for 25% off cross-border train trips for one year.

There is an annual senior discount pass but it is only available to Croatian citizens and residents. Retirees and those over 60 who can show that they are living in Croatia can purchase the K-33S ID card (available for 50kn or about 6.65 euros) at train ticket offices and train stations. They will get a 30% or 50% discount (both are advertised on the HŽPP website ) on regular ticket prices for unli mited one-way or round-trip tickets in 1st and 2nd class for all trains on any HŽ (Croatian national) train route.

Czech Republic / Czechia

Railway operator České dráhy (ČD) offers a discount of 50% for all passengers 65 and over and for pensioners on in-country travel (not crossing borders). These tickets are available via the website and at ticket counters. There are some regional limitations.

Those travelling to/from Germany will likely have better luck getting a good price through a Trainline search.

Denmark has three different options for senior travelers and retirees . The DSB Orange ticket has discounts on various routes purchased in advance. The DSB 65 ticket gives passengers over the age of 65 a 25% discount. Retirees get up to 40% off with the Travel Card Pensioner.

Discounted tickets are available on Estonian trains for seniors over the age of 65 with an ID showing their age and retirees in possession of an Estonian pension certificate.

Passengers carrying a photo ID that shows that they are over the age or 65 or paperwork that shows they are a retiree are entitled to 20% off the basic ticket price long-distance trains and 50% off commuter trains.

Those over the age of 60 can purchase the French train carrier SNCF’s Carte Avantage Senior for 49 euros. The discount card is valid for one year.

This senior card comes with a lot of complications concerning when it can be actually used. The card, in principle, offers 30% off on 1st class in TGV INOUI and 2nd class on Full Leisure Fares, but excludes cheaper train fares like OUIGO and INTERCITÉS 100% ECO, and also excludes any add-on services. It also excludes trips that both start and end in the Paris region and includes only the regional TER trains that choose to accept this card. You get 60% discounts with the same exclusions for accompanying children aged 4-11. And, the card gives you access to a set of “capped prices”, meaning certain types of tickets don’t get priced above a certain point, even if, for example popular route tickets are purchased at the last minute.

One of the reasons that France’s senior card may not actually work out cheaper for a lot of people is that there are other ways, if you’re flexible about travel dates and locations and other things, to get regular discounts on train travel in France , and these generally cannot be combined with the Carte Avantage Senior.

While the SNCF’s marketing claims that the 49-euro card pays for itself after the first round trip, this is only true for certain more expensive trips during peak periods booked at the last minute. As a general rule, we’d say this card is only worthwhile if you make a handful or more of trips in France over the course of a year .

The easiest way to purchase the Carte Avantage Senior is through Trainline’s page for discount cards , which sells at the same price as the official SNCF site ; (Trainline is also the site we generally recommend for booking train trips in France as it doesn’t have the website errors and comes up with better routes.)

It is also possible to buy the Carte Avantage Senior directly from SNCF , though in our readers’ experience that SNCF site tends to give errors on foreign credit cards and have issues shipping to non-French addresses.

For those with a German address who are travelling regularly by train, Deutsche Bahn’s Generation 65plus program offers reduced fares with the purchase of a discounted BahnCard . Essentially, the BahnCard 25 or 50 for seniors costs 38.90 euros and up depending on the travel classes etc. selected; they give one year of discounts (25% or 50%) on certain types of fares (flexible and saver). For the very serious train traveler, there is also a year of ticket-free travel offered for a set annual or lifetime rate. Note that three-month trial versions of these cards are also possible.

Before buying it’s worth checking out the actual savings on actual routes you would use by entering your age and the card you’re considering and searching for fares, either from the Bahn.de official site or from the booking platform Trainline (easier to use, often finds cheaper route options, but may not be as complete for travel to/from Germany and countries to its east). As an alternative, note that FlixTrain also now runs on many routes in Germany and is quite cheap; you’ll see these options if relevant in Trainline searches next to the traditional Deutsche Bahn offerings. FlixTrain is independent of Deutsche Bahn and so senior discount cards are not used for FlixTrain, but the fares will still often be cheaper.

One of the greatest countries in terms of train discounts for seniors is Hungary—but only if you’re an EU national. Travel for EU citizens over 65 is free on domestic trains in Hungary . You will still need to pay a small price for your ticket seat reservation and can do so in a train station —a recent search showed these reservations available for the equivalent of just a euro or two. Non-EU nationals pay the full price, but trains tend to be quite cheap here compared to other European countries. Booking is available online for Hungarian trains , though the site translation in English is not the best.

Italian national train operator Trenitalia has a Silver Card (Carta d’Argento) that costs 30 euros per year for those over 60 and is free for those over 75. It offers 10% off on certain types of overnight trains (Wagon-Lits and “couchettes”) and 15% off on the base fares in most other national trains. These cards are generally only worthwhile if you’re living in or travelling frequently in Italy; you can get them at train station ticket desks or travel agencies in Italy.

Once you have the card you can buy tickets either at Trenitalia or also use the card (and avoid the many Trenitalia website problems ) with Trainline ‘s easy booking.

If you’re taking an Italo train (the private competing rail service in Italy; it serves a few major cities) and you’re willing to wait to get your ticket until up to three days before departure, you can get a nice discount of 40% off of the Flex tickets in Prima ambiance (first class). These are available directly from Italo . and you’ll need a valid ID onboard.

You have to be 70 or older to get the generous discounts that Lithuania’s national train service offers. Passengers 70-80 years old get a 50% discount, while those over 80 get 80% off.

Luxembourg doesn’t have discounts specifically for seniors , since travel is free on public transport within the country. Tickets are available from train operator CFL or through Trainline , which has a better routing search engine for crossing the borders to Belgium, France, and Germany. You do have to pay for the cross-border portion of any trip once outside of Luxembourg.

North Macedonia

Macedonia Railways gives senior passengers over the age of 60 a 30% discount (page in Macedonian or Albanian only) on all national routes, but it requires a K-13 card that is available from ticket selling offices.

Montenegro’s national train service has a K-5 card for seniors which gives passengers over the age of 60 a 30% discount. Those over the age of 75 travel for free wit h this card. The card costs 1 euro and is valid for two years.

Netherlands

Seniors living in the Netherlands over the age of 60 are eligible for certain limited discounts especially if purchasing classic subscriptions for frequent travel. There is, for certain discount card subscriptions, the option to travel for free for 7 days per year during off peak hours; the website only explains it properly in the Dutch version .

We have had trouble in certain smaller, unstaffed train stations with cash or a foreign bank or credit cards in station machines that only accept local cards. One commenter below reports that this has been fixed in 2023. In any case to be safe it may be worth buying tickets in advance. Trainline offers some but not all routes; the official NS site and app has all routes but can be very tricky to use in English.

Those aged 67 and older can get a 50% discount on single full-priced tickets for Norwegian train operator Vy , but various flexible, sleeper, and other discounted tickets are not eligible for this senior discount.

There is a 30% discount available for seniors over the age of 60 traveling in 1st or 2nd class on PKP Intercity trains in Poland. Discount tickets can be bought online, through the app, and at ticket offices and machines.

Many cities in Poland also have free or steeply discounted travel for seniors. Check with the local operator for more. For example, Warsaw offers a senior personal pass .

Passengers over the age of 65 can show their IDs to get a 50% discount on travel within the country. The easiest way to buy tickets is via the official CP (Comboios de Portugal) app or at CP.pt , but I haven’t been able to figure out a way to get this discount with those options; you may need to buy directly at a Portuguese train station. Fortunately the staff at main stations often speak English.

There is also a discount of 25% for those aged 60 and over on the international Celta service connecting northern Spain (slow, smelly train, not recommended).

For now, generally, Portugal is not connected in any useful way by train with Spain; for overland low carbon travel to main Spanish destinations, search the bus/train combinations presented by Trainline .

There are free tickets on many types of Slovakian trains for those over the age of 62, wherever they are residents or citizens. It is necessary to first register (for free! for life!) for a rail customer card at ZSSK (official Slovakian train operator) ticket desks; one commenter below suggests doing so at major train stations where it is more likely to find an English speaker working. Bring a passport photo and your address written out. For certain other types of trains there is a small fee.

Once you have this card you still need to get tickets but they cost €0 at ticket desks or for certain exceptions (fast trains) you pay a supplement. These tickets are limited per train.

This card is only for trains run by ZSSK; there are limited trains run by other operators.

There are also very steep discounts with less limitations on categories of trains for those aged 70 and over . And there is an annual rail card available for purchase offering discounts for those aged 60 and over .

Slovenian Railways offers a Seniors Railcard for those over the age of 65 or who are retired. It costs 10 euros and is valid for one year; its discounts are 30% on weekdays, 50% on weekends and for trips to Croatia, and 15% off of international fares.

Spain’s Tarjeta Dorada (Gold Card) is offered to seniors over the age of 60 and can be purchased for €6 at ticket offices inside major train stations and at select travel agencies throughout Spain. Cardholders get up to 25% off travel on most types of Renfe trains and 40% off on medium-distance trains (trenes Media Distancia). The cards cannot be used in conjunction with other discounts.

The website of the Spanish rail operator Renfe is a a bit of a disaster , so if you have issues there we recommend booking with Trainline for Spain, including if you have the senior card, in which case just be sure to specify your Tarjeta Dorada before searching.

Note that there are now budget operators for the high speed lines that cross Spain; these are often much cheaper than Renfe, even with any of Renfe’s discount cards. Trainline automatically shows these options in route searches. We also have detailed looks at the operators: Iryo and Ouigo , as well as Renfe’s Ave and Avlo .

Senior travelers over the age of 65 (or also those who have a certificate from the Swedish Pensions Agency) get a 10% discount on trains in Sweden. You simply select the category “Pensionär” when booking online and then carry a valid ID document showing your age on the trip.

Switzerland

For heavy travellers in Switzerland, the official operator SBB offers its beautiful rail rides to residents an an unlimited basis through a subscription program called the GA Travelcard that gives women over the age of 64 and men over the age of 65 discounts on 1st and 2nd class travel. (There are also versions of the card at higher cost for non-seniors.)

You can pay for the subscription (which automatically renews, be careful) online or at SBB ticket counters. Additional benefits include a 10% discount on day trips with RailAway, discounts on Rent a Bike, up to 15% off car rentals with Europcar, discounted admission at Swiss museums, and lounge access for 1st class ticket holders.

Be aware that there are no other senior discount rates on Swiss trains, and that the SBB site can confusingly offer half fares for which you are not eligible unless you are a resident who has purchased the Swiss Half Fare card. Trainline is a less bewildering experience if you want to purchase tickets in advance; it is also generally fine to just show up and get them on the spot.

Turkey’s TCDD gives discounts of 20% to passengers aged 60 and over and 50% to passengers aged 65 and older. Be sure to ask for these fares when booking at a train station. Tickets can in theory be booked online in English ; Seat 61 has a good guide for this.

United Kingdom

The UK has an annual Senior Railcard for citizens over the age of 60 that gives 1/3 discounts off of standard and first class fares on most trains. It can be combined with some bus/rail/sea journeys (except on Eurostar, which has no senior discounts) and can be bought at train stations (including on the day of travel), and on the National Rail website. Cardholders also get discounts on restaurants, accommodations, theatre tickets and more through Railcard Rewards . The annual cost of the Senior Railcard is £30.

You can use your Senior Railcard when purchasing UK train tickets with Trainline or with RailEurope .

London has its own senior discount programs that include the Freedom Pass and the 60+ London Oyster card. Both can be used on National Rail services on the London public transportation network.

UK (Northern Ireland)

Northern Ireland’s Translink has a 60+ Smartpass that offers free travel for permanent North Ireland residents between the ages of 60 and 64. Their Senior SmartPass offers free national and cross-border travel on Translink trains and buses for seniors over 65 who have been residents of Northern Ireland for at least three months.

Wrapping Up: Seniors on Trains in Europe

We tend to hear much better tales of travel by train than any other mode of transport in Europe. Particularly if you’re looking for slower-paced travel that puts you more in touch with local Europeans, trains are the way to go.

The discounts for seniors on trains are not always great and the purchasing process in some countries can be a bit complicated. But train travel is well worth it.

We continuously update this article and as always appreciate reader feedback and suggestions in the comments.

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10 thoughts on “Senior Savings on European Train Travel: The Ultimate Guide to the Discounts”

tarjeta dorada … not worth it. buy tickets early to save, the card saves nothing at all. We’re in Spain now. no savings on Madrid to San Sebastian. We bought tickets early all over spain before arriving (that was a waste too as they’re now all cheaper). So, wait until you get to Spain but price out tickets – you may have to buy about 8 days ahead (prices do go up after that).

Comprehensive article… thank you!

It is free for pensioners to travel in Warsaw – does this also apply to the whole country?

Nope, unfortunately. See the Poland section above.

I am a 75 year old Hungarian citizen who plans to travel in Spain on train. What kind of discount I can get? I Hungary I travel free on the train, bus ecet.

Sigh. I should have added, good compilation of the offers. Thanks!

Hi, one small correction: Hungary gives free travel to those over 65 who are EU Nationals, not EU residents. And BTW it applies to all public transport, i,e, buses, ant the Budapest metro too. However for a train which has a supplement over the normal fare, seniors do have to pay the supplement.

Thanks Edward; this has now been updated above.

Having visited Hungary many times, my Irish passport shows my age and there has never been a problem on trains, trams, metros, buses or even the airport bus service ! I’m left with the impression that free travel for 65’s plus, is to bring in orderly tourism. Budapest has a super public transport system….a bit like what Ireland had up to 1932 !

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Quick Take: Senior Train Travel in Europe

Seniors booking a handful of European train trips:  The first, easiest, and often cheapest option is  Trainline , which calculates applicable senior discounts (but this is rare) and often finds smarter, cheaper routes for complex trips. Purchasing countries’ annual senior passes is not worthwhile a few trips.

For many trips in a single European country throughout the year:  This is where purchasing a senior discount pass for a specific country’s system may be worthwhile; see our specific country listings in this article.

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Save £20 with a 3-year Senior Railcard

What is a Senior Railcard?

A Senior Railcard, also known as the Over 60 Railcard, the Senior Citizens Railcard, or OAP Railcard, is a discount card that makes train travel cheaper for anyone aged 60+. With a Senior Railcard, you can save 1/3 on all Standard and First Class  Anytime, Off-Peak , and Advance tickets throughout Britain. You can also link your Senior Railcard with an Oyster Card to get 1/3 off Off-Peak travel around London.

How much is a Senior Railcard?

A Senior Railcard costs just £30 for one year or £70 for three years.

Where can I find my Senior Railcard?

Your digital Senior Railcard lives on your phone under 'Railcards' in the account section of the Trainline app. Because it's digital only, you won't need a paper copy of it to use your Senior Railcard discount!

Who can use a Senior Railcard?

Anyone aged 60 or over can use a Senior Railcard.

When can I use a Senior Railcard?

A Senior Railcard can be used on discounted over 60's tickets for travel across the National Rail network at any time of day – except for journeys within the London and South East area during morning Peak hours – and at any time on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays. To see the full list of ticket types a Senior Railcard discount is valid for, visit our Railcards terms of use guide .

How to buy your digital Senior Railcard

You'll need to have iOS 15.0 and above or Lollipop on Android to get your digital Senior Railcard on your phone. Don’t have our app yet? Download it now and follow these easy steps to buy your Senior Railcard today with us.

Tap 'Buy 1-year for £30' or 'Buy 3-year for £70' (if applicable) to get the Railcard you want on your phone

Enter your first and last name (and date of birth if you need to prove your age)

Upload a digital passport-style photo for your Railcard from your phone

Sign in to your Trainline account on the app and buy your digital Railcard

You’ll find your new Railcard under 'Railcards' in the Account tab of the app. Please make sure you're signed into the app with the same account you used to buy your Railcard

How to use a Senior Railcard to buy train tickets

Once you've purchased a digital Senior Railcard with us, you can use it to save money on rail fares in the following easy steps.

• When searching for tickets on our website or in our app, tap add a Railcard and scroll down to select Senior Railcard from the list
• We'll automatically apply your Railcard savings and show you the discounted price
• Book your train tickets as a digital ticket, or to be collected at the station
• Bring the device your digital Railcard is stored on along for your train journey, to show to a ticket inspector if asked

Book train tickets

3-year Senior Railcard discount

You can enjoy even better savings if you opt for a 3-year Senior Railcard, especially if you plan to be doing a lot of travelling over the next 3 years. The 3-year option costs just £70, meaning you save £20 on the cost of three individual Senior Railcards. What's more, you won't need to worry about renewing your Senior Railcard every year after it expires.

Popular journeys booked with a Senior Railcard discount

Check out some of the most popular rail journeys our customers are booking with a Senior Railcard discount at the moment.

Manchester to London

Off-Peak Single

£43.60 ‡ with a Railcard

£66.10 without

You save £22.50

London to Manchester

Liverpool to london, birmingham to london.

£27.55 ‡ with a Railcard

£41.80 without

You save £14.25

Your digital Senior Railcard lives on our app

Your digital Senior Railcard is added to your Trainline account, so you can access it on any compatible device you travel with. Please be aware that the minimum Operating System (OS) required for your Senior Railcard is iOS 15.0 and above or Lollipop on Android. There are no device limits or download codes needed.

Can I have more than one Railcard?

Absolutely. In fact, having more than one Railcard can help you save even more. You can store and manage multiple Railcards easily in our app.

The Senior Railcard goes well with a Family & Friends Railcard

For ages 60+ Get 1/3 off train travel across Great Britain. Conditions apply

Digital only Railcards live in your account in the Trainline app so you can use them on any of your compatible devices . No download codes are needed!

Family & Friends Railcard

For up to four adults and four children aged 5-15 Adults get 1/3 off, children get a 60% discount. At least 1 adult and 1 child must travel together. Conditions apply

Great for: Anyone who travels in groups with children - no relation necessary

Other Railcards available in the UK

16-17 saver.

Great for: School and college students

16-25 Railcard

Great for: Teenagers, students, graduates, and young professionals

26-30 Railcard

Great for: Millennials, graduates, and young professionals

Disabled Persons Railcard

Great for: People with a disability that makes travelling by train difficult

Veterans Railcard

Great for: UK Veterans and Merchant Mariners

Network Railcard

Great for: Commuters and Londoners

Two Together Railcard

Great for: Friends, couples, flatmates, or colleagues who regularly travel together

Frequently asked questions

Buying a senior railcard, what is an oap railcard.

The OAP Railcard, better known as the ‘Senior Railcard’, is a discount card specifically for senior citizens. It gives people aged 60 and over 1/3 off rail fares throughout Great Britain.

Do I need a photo for a Senior Railcard?

Yes. You will be asked to provide a passport, driving licence or EEA National Identity Card number and you will also need a digital passport-style photo.

How much is a 3-year Senior Railcard?

A 3-year Senior Railcard costs just £70, saving you £20 on the price of three 1-year Railcards instantly.

If I buy a Senior Railcard with Trainline, can I use it with tickets bought elsewhere?

Yes. Although your Railcard will live in your Trainline App, it can still be used with tickets bought elsewhere.

What do I need to buy a Senior Railcard?

All you need is a passport-style photo saved to your device and a valid passport or driving licence as proof of eligibility.

What age do I have to be to buy a Senior Railcard?

You're eligible for a Senior Railcard if you are 60 years old or over.

Getting a digital Senior Railcard

What is a digital senior railcard.

A digital Senior Railcard is stored within the Trainline app on your smartphone or tablet, meaning there’s no need to carry the paper Railcard around with you. Plus, you can use it as soon as you've bought it, as it does not need to be sent in the post.

How do I use my digital Senior Railcard?

Once you’ve bought your digital Senior Railcard online with us, you’ll just need to enter your departure and arrival station, select the start date of your ticket and the number of people travelling, then select ‘Senior Railcard’ from the drop-down menu – the 1/3 savings will be applied automatically to your booking.

Do digital Senior Railcards work on older iPhone models?

Digital Senior Railcards bought through Trainline will only work on iPhones using iOS 15.0 and above. As such, some older iPhone models running iOS versions below iOS 15.0 may not be able to support Railcards. Make sure you check which software version your iPhone is running before purchasing a Railcard.

Can I get a paper Senior Railcard with Trainline?

No, you can get a digital only Senior Railcard with Trainline. This means that your Railcard will be stored in your Trainline app and you won’t need a paper copy of it to take advantage of your Senior Railcard discount.

Using a Senior Railcard

Can i use a senior railcard on heathrow express.

Yes, you can use a Senior Railcard to save on Heathrow Express tickets , as well as other airport-bound services like Gatwick Express and Stansted Express .

Can I use my Senior Railcard on Eurostar services?

No, you can't use your Senior Railcard to buy discounted Eurostar tickets (UK Railcard discounts are not applicable to Eurostar services ).

Can I use my Senior Railcard on Transport for London services?

You can get a 1/3 discount on off-peak Oyster pay-as-you-go travel if you link your Senior Railcard to your Oyster card. You can also use the railcard to purchase Off Peak Day Travelcards for travel on the weekends and bank holidays, and after 9:30am on weekdays. However, if you live in a London Borough and you're over 60, you can apply for the 60+ Oyster Photocard which gets you  free travel on all TfL services.

Can I get a discount on Season tickets with a Senior Railcard?

No, unfortunately the Senior Railcard discount won't apply to Season tickets, including Travelcard Season tickets.

Can I use my Senior Railcard before 9am?

Your Senior Railcard is not valid during the morning Peak period when travelling between two stations in the Network Railcard area . Morning Off-Peak services vary by route, so we recommend you check with the train operator before buying your tickets. Please note that the morning Peak time restriction does not apply on Public Holidays.

How much money can I save with the Senior Railcard?

The amount of money you save with the Senior Railcard depends on how often you use it. If you buy a 1-year Senior Railcard for £30, it’s more than likely that the Railcard will pay for itself after just a few train journeys. If you’re planning to travel frequently over the next few years, you can save even more money if you purchase a 3-year Railcard for £70, as you’ll save £20 compared to buying three 1-year Railcards.

Can I use my Senior Railcard in Scotland and Wales?

Yes, you can use your Senior Railcard in Scotland and Wales. All Railcards can be used across England, Scotland and Wales. However, please note that they cannot be used for rail travel in Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland.

Can I use my Senior Railcard in Northern Ireland?

No, unfortunately you cannot use your Senior Railcard for rail travel in either in Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland. However, if you live in Northern Ireland, you can buy a Senior Railcard to use for travelling in England, Scotland or Wales.

Where will your Senior Railcard discount take you?

From the cobbled streets of Edinburgh to the craggy cliffs of Cornwall, the UK is teeming with exciting places to discover. A Senior Railcard takes 1/3 off train travel and makes exploring the UK more affordable. For more inspiration on where your Senior Railcard discount can take you, head over to our travel hub to find a wide array of ideas for days out.

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‡Applies to selected train fares. See Trainline's  Railcard terms  for full details of each railcard, eligible tickets and travel times.

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Exploring the Perks: Is Train Travel Free for Pensioners?

As retirement approaches, many individuals look forward to exploring new pastimes and enjoying a well-deserved break from the daily grind. 

One of the benefits that come with reaching the pension age in the UK is the possibility of free or discounted travel on various forms of public transportation. However, many people find themselves wondering, is train travel free for pensioners?

In this guide, we are going to explore this frequently asked question. Join us as we delve into the perks of train travel for pensioners in the UK .

The Senior Railcard

One of the most well-known and widely-used schemes in the UK is the Senior Railcard. Available to those aged 60 and above, this card offers substantial savings on train fares across the country. Using your railcard with split tickets is a no-brainer!

With a mere one-time fee, pensioners can enjoy a third off their ticket prices, whether travelling for a day trip or embarking on a longer journey. This Railcard scheme lets pensioners save money while exploring new destinations, reconnecting with loved ones, or simply taking in the picturesque landscapes of the British countryside.

The Freedom Pass Could be Your One Way Ticket to Freedom

Living in London or other eligible areas of England? Then the Freedom Pass may be your ticket to free train travel! Available to those who have reached the female state pension age (currently 66) or those with a disability, this pass allows unlimited travel on buses, trams, underground services, and even trains within the designated area. Exploring the vibrant city or enjoying a leisurely day trip is made all the more enjoyable when you don’t need to worry about the cost of travel.

Regional Concessionary Fares:

Aside from national schemes, various regions offer their own concessionary fares for pensioners. These schemes differ depending on where you reside, so it’s worth checking with your local council or transportation authority to see what benefits are available to you. 

From discounted tickets to free travel during off-peak hours, these regional concessions can make train travel an affordable option for pensioners throughout the UK.

Everyone can make savings with Off-Peak Travel

Train fares can become quite expensive during peak hours, causing some pensioners to miss out on certain journeys due to high costs. However, by planning your trips during off-peak hours , you can take advantage of significantly reduced fares. Enjoy a more relaxed journey and save money at the same time by opting for train travel during quieter periods.

Train travel doesn’t have to be a luxury reserved only for those in their working years. With various schemes and concessions available throughout the UK, pensioners can now explore the country’s scenic beauty, visit friends and family, or embark on new adventures without breaking the bank. 

From the Senior Railcard to regional concessions, there are options for every budget and preference. 

So, pack your bags, grab your ticket, and set off on your next train adventure – the perks of train travel for pensioners await!

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Make the most of being over 60 with the Senior Railcard

Whether you want to make the most of your retirement, or just a weekend away, the Senior Railcard is a great way to save money if you’re over 60.

Do I qualify for a Senior Railcard?

Whether you want to make the most of your retirement or just a weekend away, the Senior Railcard is a great way to save money if you’re over 60.

What are the benefits of a Senior Railcard?

Over 60 railcard benefits include saving you 1/3 on off-peak tickets.

You can also save on special offers with your railcard, like 2FOR1 entry offers at many UK attractions and money off dining in London.

The Senior Railcard costs just £30 a year, or £70 for the three-year card - saving you £20.

People with a Senior Railcard save on average £76 per year.

How do I apply for a Senior Railcard?

You can apply online or download an application form and apply at a staffed station. You will require some proof of eligibility ((UK Driving Licence, Passport, EEA National Identity card).

A passport-size photo is required for digital railcards.

Can I get a Senior Railcard at the station?

Yes, you will need to complete the application form and provide some proof of eligibility. You can buy at the station from the day of your 60th Birthday

If you are renewing your Railcard, you will need to fill in the application form, and show your existing Railcard. This is automatically accepted as proof of your age.

How long does it take for my Senior Railcard to arrive?

If you are applying online for a physical railcard you should allow 5 working days for your application to be processed and have your railcard posted to you. You can also pay for Special Delivery service if you would like your railcard to be delivered within two days. Digital railcards and those bought at the station can be obtained on the same day.

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Senior Train Travel Discounts in Europe

Although most senior travelers associate senior discounts with rail passes, some European countries offer mature travelers discounts on individual tickets. Typically, you will need to purchase some kind of annual membership card to qualify for the senior discount. Requirements vary by country and are subject to change. In some countries, non-European Union seniors are not eligible for discount cards.

If you plan to travel by train on just a few days over a one- or two-month period, you may find that a rail pass will save you money. BritRail and France's SNCF offer senior discounts on certain types of rail passes. Senior discounts also apply to the Eurail Ireland and Eurail Romania Passes.

Do not assume that a rail pass is the cheapest way to go. Depending on the countries you plan to visit, the number of train trips you plan to take, and the senior discount plans available, you may save more by purchasing a senior card and applying its discount to your tickets. It is worth spending some time at your computer to research the best deal.

Terms by Country

Let's take a look at senior train travel discounts by country.

Belgium offers seniors age 65 and older a great senior discount on non-peak train travel . Tickets are just 6.50 Euros each if you travel after 9:01 A.M. on weekdays. You can also get this senior fare on weekends during the school year. Restrictions apply; some "frontier" train stations do not offer the senior fare. This discount is unavailable on August 15, during holiday periods and summer weekends. Proof of age is required.

France gives seniors age 60 and older the opportunity to purchase a Carte Senior+  for 60 Euros. The Carte Senior+ entitles you to discounts of 25 to 50 percent on train travel. You can also change your train ticket for only 5 Euros; the normal change fee is 15 Euros.

Germany offers senior travelers over age 60 a discount on the BahnCard 50 . Seniors pay 255 Euros for the second class BahnCard50, which gives you a 50 percent discount on flexible fare train tickets as well as a 25 percent discount on certain saver fares in the German rail system. Carefully research each leg of your journey to see whether the BahnCard50 is a good option for you. If you are traveling with one or more companions, Germany's Weekend Tickets may be a better bet, depending on your travel dates.

Italy offers the Carta d'Argento ("Silver Card") to senior travelers over age 60. The card costs 30 Euros (free for travelers over 75) and is valid for one year. With the Carta d'Argento, you will save 15 percent on most Italian train tickets and 10 percent on couchette tickets (second-class sleeper berths). You will also be able to participate in the RailEurope system with its 25 percent discount on international travel. You have to show both your ticket and your Carta d'Argento to the conductor. Certain restrictions apply.

Portugal's CP rail system offers seniors age 65 and older discounts on several different types of trains, including regional, interregional and Coimbra Urban trains. The typical discount is 50 percent. Restrictions apply.

Spain's RENFE rail system offers senior travelers 60 and older the Tarjeta Dorada ("Gold Card"). With the Tarjeta Dorada, you will save 25 to 50 percent on train tickets, depending on the type of train, the day of the week you travel and how far in advance you buy your tickets. You can buy your Tarjeta Dorada at a RENFE station for 6 Euros; it will be valid for one year.

The UK's Senior Railcard gives you a one-third discount on a wide variety of standard and first-class tickets. Morning rush hour travel within the London and the South East area does not qualify for the Senior Railcard discount. The Senior Railcard costs £30 and is available to anyone age 60 or over. British train fares are quite high, so it is also worth investigating a BritRail pass if you plan to take several train trips.

Eurostar , which operates the Chunnel trains, no longer advertises a senior fare.

Disclaimer: Some train systems may restrict senior discounts to citizens of European Union communities, even though their websites do not indicate any such restrictions.

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Interrail as Senior

Slow travel. Relaxed and comfortable.

Start > Interrail as Senior

Why Interrail is so popular with me as a senior traveler

I like to travel slowly, watch the landscape pass me by. Read a book. Like to have space for my legs. To stretch. To stand up and walk a few steps.

My journey starts in the middle of a city and I also arrive in the middle of a new city. No need to travel to an airport far away. No tiring check-in.

There are many places, even smaller ones, that I can easily reach by train . Europe-wide. Far away from the typical tourist paths. From Greece to Norway. From Scotland to Portugal.

In addition to all these conveniences, it is of course also ecological to make my journeys by train. I want to leave a green world to my grandchildren.

Just try it out. It’s an experience you can remember for a long time . If you have any questions, I recommend the RailDude . You will get help in this forum. For all questions. And always very friendly.

I wish you a wonderful journey! Mrs. Frida.

As a senior traveler, I enjoy the simplicity and freedom of Interrail. With time and muse through Europe, as in my younger years. Visiting culture and old friends.

Discounts are available from time to time. Check here to see if a discount is currently available.

Ticket variants and prices

Discounted Interrail tickets are available for travellers aged 60 years and older.

4 travel days in one month: from EUR 221 5 travel days in one month: from EUR 254 7 travel days in one month : from EUR 302 | v ery popular 10 travel days in two months: from EUR 361 15 travel days in two months: from EUR 444 15 travel days straight: from EUR 399 22 travel days straight: from EUR 466 1 month straight : from EUR 603 | the Classic 2 months straight: from EUR 658 3 months straight: from EUR 812

Buy your Interrail ticket directly on the official website. You can get your Interrail ticket as a mobile ticket in the Interrail app. Simple and secure.

What is the Interrail Ticket ?

Interrail is a rail pass that allows you to travel in 33 European countries. One ticket for all countries. Simple and flexible.

Interrail is available in different versions: for a short trip through the capitals of Europe. Or for a month-long trip from north to south and east to west. You can find all ticket variants on this overview page.

Please note:

• Some trains require an extra seat reservation . These are usually high-speed trains. However, this can often be avoided. Fred will explain how this works .
• On a night train , you have to reserve your sleeping place or seat, but in return you save the night in a hostel or hotel.
• Interrail is not valid in your country of residence . However, you have one free exit (outbound) and one free entry (inbound). For transit, you can use the savings fares of the railway companies, for example.

Where to buy Interrail ?

Buy your Interrail ticket directly on the official website . You can get your Interrail ticket as a mobile ticket in the Interrail app. Simple and secure.

In which countries is Interrail valid ?

Austria, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Kosovo, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the United Kingdom.

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Benefits and Entitlements

If you're 60 or over or you have a disability, you might be eligible for public transport concessions – from discounts on your rail journeys to a free bus pass.

What transport concessions are available?

Can i get a free bus pass, can i get a discount on train travel, can i get a london freedom pass, what if i have difficulty using public transport, what if i'm unable to use public transport, more travel concessions questions.

There are several national public transport concessions available to older and disabled people. Some entitle you to discounts on your fares, while others allow you to travel for free.

Eligibility for these concessions depends on whether you have a disability or your age. 

Depending on your age and your circumstances, you might be able to get one of the following free bus passes, which allow you to travel free on local buses:

• an older person's bus pass
• a disabled person's bus pass

What age do I have to be to get an older person's bus pass?

You can get an older person's bus pass when you reach State Pension age, which is currently 66 for both women and men.

Apply for your older person's bus pass on GOV.UK

If you're 60 or over and live in London, then you can get free travel on buses, trains and other modes of transport in and around London with a 60+ London Oyster photocard.

Apply for your 60+ London Oyster photocard on the TFL website

How can I get a disabled person's bus pass?

There's no central provider of the disabled person's bus pass – to find out if you're eligible and how to apply, you need to get in touch with your local council.

Find your local council and apply for a disabled person's bus pass on GOV.UK

Are there any other discounts if I'm an older person or I'm disabled?

It's a good idea to contact individual transport operators to see if they offer discounts.

For instance, National Express offers Coachcards. These are discount cards for older or disabled customers. You buy them for a set fee of £15.00 and they get you a third off the cost of your travel across the year.

Find out more and order a Coachcard on the National Express website

Depending on your age and circumstances, you might be entitled to one of the below railcards:

• a Senior Railcard
• a Disabled Person's Railcard

Both railcards are discount cards. You buy them for a set fee to last either 1 or 3 years and they get you a third off the cost of your train travel.

Can I get a Senior Railcard?

The Senior Railcard is available for anyone aged 60 or over to buy.

You can apply on the Senior Railcard website using a valid passport or UK driving licence as ID. Or, you can apply in person at most staffed railway stations.

Find out more about the Senior Railcard and apply online

Can I get a Disabled Person's Railcard?

The Disabled Person's Railcard is available to you if you meet one of the following criteria:

• you're registered as deaf or use a hearing aid
• you're registered as having a visual impairment
• you have epilepsy
• you receive a disability-related benefit, such as  Personal Independence Payment
• you receive War or Service Disablement pension
• you receive Attendance Allowance
• you receive Severe Disablement Allowance
• you receive War Pensioner's mobility supplement

Find out more about the Disabled Person's Railcard and apply online

Freedom Passes give London residents free travel in the city – including National Rail services, the Underground, buses, river services and trams – and free local bus journeys nationally.

If you live in London, you can apply for a Freedom Pass if one of the following applies to you:

• you've reached State Pension age
• you have a disability.

Find out more about Freedom Passes and apply on the London Councils website

National Rail has an interactive tool called Stations Made Easy, designed to help people find their way around stations and find more accessible routes, avoiding potential difficulties like stairs. This may be helpful if you have difficulty using public transport because of your health. 

Find out more and use the tool on the National Rail website

If you're disabled, you can't use public transport, or you don't have access to a car, you might also be able to use a community transport scheme – such as a social car, dial-a-ride, or taxicard scheme.

Shopmobility schemes help people shop in town centres by lending out wheelchairs and scooters. Some local councils also offer concessions on local public transport.

To find out what's available in your area, you can contact your local council or your local Age UK.

Find your local council on GOV.UK

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No, you can't use a free bus pass on National Express buses. To get senior concessions on National Express you need to buy a senior coachcard, which costs £15 a year.

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Yes, your bus pass will give you free travel on buses across England, including London. However, there may be specific rules about when you can travel for free, so check your local council's free bus pass guidance before travelling.

Find your local council's older person's bus pass guidance on GOV.UK

Want more information?

Apply for an older person's bus pass on GOV.UK

Apply for a disabled person's bus pass on GOV.UK

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Last updated: Apr 09 2024

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Europe by train with 10% discount

Interrail is for YOU

Think Interrail is just for youth? It’s also for you! The freedom and adventure of Interrailing through Europe has no age limit. Whether you want to tour Europe’s famous cities, relax in nature, or experience a bit of everything, get there in comfort and style by train with an Interrail Pass.

• Plan your own rail route through up to 33 European countries (no fixed itinerary)
• Go at your own pace – pick the number of travel days that’s right for you
• Choose 1 st class for the most comfortable ride
• Arrive directly where you want to be, with most train stations located right in the city centre
• Enjoy a 10% discount on Interrail Passes if you are aged 60 or over on the date you start your trip (German Rail Pass not included)
• Book additional seat reservations for selected routes, such as night trains

Pick your Global Pass

Global pass: 7 days in 1 month.

✔  7 days  of unlimited train travel

✔ Perfect for visiting  6–8 destinations

✔  Mobile Pass  – no shipping required

Global Pass: 5 days in 1 month

✔  5 days  of unlimited train travel

✔ Perfect for visiting  4–6 destinations

What's included in the Pass?

What's included.

• Hop on and off most trains in 33 countries just by showing your Pass (some high-speed and night trains require an extra seat reservation).
• Download the free Rail Planner app  to plan your trip and show your ticket as you go.
• Get extra benefits and discounts as you travel with our 100+ partners across Europe.
• I nterrail has flexible  exchange and return policies  that let you book with confidence.

What's not included?

• Seat reservations.  These are mandatory on most high-speed trains and night trains and must be booked in advance at an additional cost . Check whether seat reservations are required for your journey and how much they could cost by  searching our timetable .
• Public transport like trams, buses and rental bikes is not covered by your Pass (though  you can get a discount in some cities ).
• You'll need to pay for accommodation  (though  you can get a discount with our accomodation partners ).

Seat reservations

What's a seat reservation .

For some trains, like high-speed and night trains , it's mandatory to buy a seat reservation (this reservation guarantees your seat on the applicable train). Please note that you can only buy reservations when you have a valid Pass. 

Don't have your Interrail Pass yet? Not sure whether you need seat reservations or how much they cost? Don't worry; we have all the answers. Find out more about reservations here →

When do you need a seat reservation? 

If you're planning to see a lot in a short space of time on your Interrail trip, then you'll most likely need to buy some seat reservations for high-speed routes before you go. 

Where will you go?

The sunny south

Travel the Mediterranean coast by train through Spain, France, and Italy.

Top scenic trains

Take in the unique views from these 10 spectacular rail routes.

Best of France

Go one stop further in France with this itinerary from Paris to Lyon.

Planning a family getaway?

25% youth discount

Travelers aged 12 to 27 years can travel with a Youth Pass, available for 25% less than the price of standard Adult Passes.

Kids travel FREE

Travelers aged 11 or younger on the date you start your trip can travel for free by using our family discount.

Where in Europe do you want to be? Interrail is the unique and exciting way to get there. One train Pass to help you open doors to new destinations, cultures and friendships all over Europe.

The Interrail Pass is a train ticket that allows you to travel on almost all trains in Europe. You can choose from over 40,000 destinations in 33 countries, designing a European adventure that’s personal to you.

The ultimate sense of freedom

Interrail gives you the travel tools that put you in charge. You can use the Interrail Pass to hop aboard trains, check train times using the Interrail  timetable  and  app , and even book seats in advance using the  Interrail Reservation Service .

Interrail isn't a tour operator. We don't tell you where to go or how. We just make sure you can get to wherever you want to be.

Change of currency

You cannot change the currency once you have a Pass in your cart. Remove the Pass, and then change the currency on the website header.

Rail concessionary travel

If you have a concessionary travel pass from a welsh local authority, you can travel free on many of our trains., you can travel between:.

• Wrexham – Hawarden Bridge
• Machynlleth – Pwllheli (Cambrian Coast line) – October to March only

Llandudno – Blaenau Ffestiniog (Conwy Valley line)

• Shrewsbury and Llanelli / Swansea (Heart of Wales Line) – October to March only

You’ll need to get a free ticket from the ticket office before you travel. If there is no ticket office or if it’s closed, you can get one from the Conductor on the train. 

You’ll also get 1/3 off tickets to travel on the Cardiff and Valley network after 0930 Monday - Friday and any time at weekends and bank holidays. 

Please note: Previously valid on services arriving at Cardiff Central after 0929. Now only valid from origin station from 0930.

Here’s where you can travel on our trains

Wrexham to hawarden bridge .

You can travel free between any two of these stations: 

Hawarden Bridge, Shotton, Hawarden, Buckley, Penyffordd, Hope, Caergwrle, Cefn y Bedd, Gwersyllt and Wrexham General

Machynlleth to Pwllheli (Cambrian Coast line)

Each year, from 01 October to 31 March, you can travel between any two of these stations:

Pwllheli, Abererch, Penychain, Criccieth, Porthmadog, Minffordd, Penrhyndeudraeth, Llandecwyn, Talsarnau, Tygwyn, Harlech, Llandanwg, Pensarn, Llanbedr, Dyffryn Ardudwy, Talybont, Llanaber, Barmouth, Morfa Mawddach, Fairbourne, Llwyngwril, Tonfanau, Tywyn, Aberdovey, Penhelig, Dovey Junction, Machynlleth. 

We don’t accept concessionary tickets on the following trains during school terms:

06.29 Pwllheli – Machynlleth between Barmouth and Tywyn

07.24 Pwllheli – Machynlleth between Penrhyndeudraeth and Harlech.

12.51 Machynlleth – Pwllheli between Harlech and Penrhyndeudraeth

14.56 Machynlleth – Pwllheli between Tywyn and Barmouth

Llandudno, Deganwy, Llandudno Junction, Glan Conwy, Tal-y-Cafn, Dalgarrog, North Llanrwst, Betws-y-Coed, Pont-y-Pant, Dolwyddelan, Roman Bridge, Blaenau Ffestiniog.

Shrewsbury and Llanelli/Swansea (Heart of Wales Line)

Shrewsbury, Church Stretton, Craven Arms, Broome, Hopton Heath, Bucknell, Knighton, Knucklas, Llangynllo, Llanbister Road, Dolau, Pen-y-bont, Llandrindod, Builth Road, Cilmeri, Garth (Powys), Llangammarch, Llanwrtyd, Sugar Loaf, Cynghordy, Llandovery,Llanwrda, Llangadog, Llandeilo, Fairfach, Llandybie, Ammanford, Pantyffynnon, Pontarddulais, Llangennech, Bynea, Llanelli, Gowerton,Swansea.

We don’t provide free tickets for journeys wholly between Shrewsbury and Bucknell and Llanelli and Swansea.

• Did you know? Travel safer You can plan ahead and decide when to travel using our Capacity Checker. Check capacity

The Train Hacker

Saving You Money on Train Travel

Cheap & FREE UK Train Tickets for Over 50s & Senior Adults

By Chris P King

Seniors and adults over 50 can get cheap and FREE rail tickets for journeys across the UK in 2023.

The deals are harder to find, so we’ve worked hard to give you a comprehensive guide to the best senior rail discounts.

Making the most of Railcard offers, train company discounts, and regional and local concessionary fares can save you £££s.

Cheap & FREE UK Train Tickets for Over 50s & Senior Adults – Quick Links

Senior railcard – 1/3 off train travel in britain for over 60s, other railcard discounts – two together, family & friends & network railcards, 60+ london oyster photocard – free rail travel in london, scotrail club 50 – 20% discount on off-peak and advance tickets.

• C2C – Senior Rover Travel from Only £7

UK Regional, Urban and Local FREE Senior Rail Travel & Discounts

Cheap rail tickets for over 50s and senior adults in britain – recommendations.

A few Railcard options are available to those over the 50s – travel in pairs Two Together Railcard, travel with grandchildren Family & Friends Railcard, for flexibility to travel on your own get a Senior Railcard – Image credit: Street Photography Addict

Senior Railcards are available for anyone over 60.

And you can get money off the card before travelling in 2023.

• SAVE £20 three-year Senior Railcard
• 10% OFF one-year Senior Railcard (there are often better deals available)

SAVE money with Senior Railcard discounts

* Senior Railcard discounts are not available on peak time services Monday to Friday wholly within the London & South East Network Railcard area .

Other railcard options for seniors may work out cheaper, depending on your circumstances.

Two Together Railcard – 1/3 OFF Train Travel

• 10% OFF one-year Two Together Railcard (there are often better deals available)

SAVE money with Two Together Railcard discounts

Family & Friends Railcard – 1/3 OFF Train Travel

• SAVE £20 three-year Family & Friends Railcard
• 10% OFF one-year Family & Friends Railcard (there are often better deals available)

SAVE money with Family & Friends Railcard discounts

* Family & Friends Railcard discounts are unavailable during peak services within the London & South East Network Railcard area on Monday to Friday morning.

Network Railcard – 1/3 OFF Train Travel

Adults get 1/3 OFF and children 60% OFF all services after 10.00 in the London & South East Network Railcard area.

SAVE money with Network Railcard discounts

‘Picture yourself in a boat on a river…’ And why not enjoy a day out in Richmond travelling there for FREE with your 60+ London Oyster Photocard – Image credit: © The Train Hacker images/Chris P King

You must be over 60 to be eligible.

What’s the 60+ London Oyster Photocard Deal?

The 60+ London Oyster Photocard costs £20 and gives FREE travel on:

• London Overground
• TfL (Transport for London) Rail
• some National Rail services

Over 60-year-olds living in a London borough. Anyone eligible for a Freedom Pass can’t get this offer.

You can use the 60+ London Oyster Photocard anytime on London Overground and TfL Rail services. Anytime or after 09.30 on some National Rail services.

As well as all London Overground and TfL Rail services, you can use the 60+ London Oyster Photocard on some National Rail services on the:

• Chiltern Railway
• Great Northern
• London Midland
• Greater Anglia
• Southeastern

No further railcard or promotional discounts are available with the 60+ London Oyster Photocard.

Where can I buy 60+ London Oyster Photocard?

Buy 60+ London Oyster Photocards from:

• Online, Post Office & Post

Get a 60+ London Oyster Photocard and SAVE on London rail travel

Scotrail Club 50 membership gets discounts on travel throughout Scotland; why not visit Glasgow? – Image credit: © The Train Hacker images/Chris P King

Scotrail Club 50 is a great way to get savings on train journeys in Scotland for those who aren’t yet eligible for a Senior Railcard .

What’s the Scotrail Club 50 deal?

Scotrail Club 50 members enjoy:

• 20% OFF selected Off-Peak and Advance fares when bought via the ScotRail website
• 10% OFF selected Off-Peak and Advance fares when purchased at a train station or over the phone
• FREE hot drink when travelling with a Club 50 ticket on a route with catering facilities
• occasional special offers and promotions that save you money

Scotrail Club 50 is open to anyone aged 50 or over.

All Single and Return tickets. Anytime at weekends. Off-peak services Monday to Friday. Restrictions on train services arriving into Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen before 09.30.

Scotrail Club 50 is available on services across the Scotrail and TransPennine Express networks.

No further railcard or promotional discounts are available with the Scotrail Club 50.

How can I buy Scotrail Club 50 tickets?

To get discounted Scotrail Club 50 tickets, you must be a Club 50 member . This only costs £15; you’ll need a photo and email address.

Scotrail Club 50 ticket discounts

Discounts for Scotrail Club 50 members, depending on where you buy your tickets:

• Online – 20% discount
• Ticket offices and telephone – 10% discount

Get Scotrail Club 50 membership and save on train tickets in Scotland

Enjoy unlimited one-day travel and visit places like Southend with a c2c Senior Rover ticket – Image credit: Bernie Lampert

c2c – Senior Rover Travel from Only £7

The Senior Rover ticket is an excellent deal for those over 65s to explore Southend, London, The Thames Estuary and everywhere on the c2c network .

What’s the c2c Senior Rover deal?

The c2c Senior Rover allows senior travellers unlimited travel across the c2c network. It costs just £7, or £10, including London destinations.

c2c Senior Rover tickets are available to anyone aged 65 years and over.

All travel from Mondays to Fridays after 09.30, excluding trains within London Travelcard (Zones 1 to 6) from 16:00 to 18:59.

c2c Senior Rover discounts are available at all stations on the c2c rail network. London rail travel on other networks isn’t included, and you can’t use it on London Underground.

You can’t combine the c2c Senior Rover offer with any railcards.

Where can I buy c2c Senior Rover tickets?

You can only buy c2c Senior Rover tickets from ticket offices and bring your passport or driving licence for ID.

Find out more about c2c Senior Rover tickets

There are even more rail discounts for older adults at the regional and urban levels. And in many cases, rail travel is FREE for senior travellers.

England – FREE and discounted senior rail travel

• Scotland – discounted senior rail travel
• Wales – discounted senior rail travel
• Northern Ireland – discounted senior rail travel

Take advantage of UK regional, urban and local FREE and discounted rail travel schemes – Image credit: © The Train Hacker images/Chris P King

Most people know that seniors in England get FREE bus travel but can also get selected FREE and discounted rail travel.

English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS)

The English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) covers senior travel discounts in England. ENCTS passes – commonly known as senior bus passes – are issued locally but give cardholders FREE bus travel throughout England.

The ENCTS bus pass also allows FREE and discounted rail travel in some regional and local areas.

Recent age change in England for senior travel concessions

You must now be 66 to get your ENCTS to pass in England. Find out if you’re eligible for FREE bus and train travel .

London – Freedom Pass

The Older Persons Freedom Pass allows FREE travel on most London rail services between 09:30 and 04:30 the following morning. Eligibility is based on age and if you’re a resident of Greater London.

Get FREE senior rail travel with London Freedom Pass

Greater Manchester – £10 per year

Senior travellers who qualify for a state pension get annual off-peak rail travel in Greater Manchester for £10 per year. It includes all trains in Greater Manchester after 09:30 Monday to Friday and anytime at weekends and public holidays. Eligibility is based on age and residency in Greater Manchester.

Get senior rail travel for £10 per year in Greater Manchester

Merseyside – Over 60s Travel Pass

People aged 60 and over get FREE rail travel in Merseyside after 09:30 Monday to Friday and anytime on weekends and public holidays. The first pass costs £10, but after that, they’re FREE. Eligibility is based on age and residency in Merseyside.

Get FREE senior rail travel in Merseyside

South Yorkshire – Senior Travel Pass

Senior travellers aged 66 years and over get 50% OFF rail fares within South Yorkshire between 09:30 and 23:00 Monday to Friday and anytime at weekends and public holidays. Eligibility is based on age and residency in South Yorkshire.

Get 50% OFF senior rail travel in South Yorkshire

Tyne and Wear – Senior Travel Pass

English National Concessionary Travel Pass (CT Pass) holders in Tyne and Wear combined with a Metro Gold Card (£12 per year if you live in Tyne and Wear) get FREE Northern Rail journeys between Newcastle and Sunderland. Eligibility is based on age and residency in Tyne & Wear.

Find out about reduced senior rail tickets in Tyne & Wear

West Midlands – Older Person’s Travel Pass

Senior citizens eligible for FREE bus travel in England get FREE rail travel in the West Midlands inner Blue Zone from 09:30 to 11:59. Eligibility is based on age and residency in the West Midlands.

Get FREE senior train travel in West Midlands

West Yorkshire – Senior Pass

Older people get 50% OFF off-peak rail fares within West Yorkshire Monday to Friday and anytime at weekends and public holidays. Eligibility is based on age and residency in West Yorkshire.

Get 50% OFF rail travel in West Yorkshire

English Local Councils – Senior Rail Travel Discounts

Living outside England’s largest urban areas may still benefit from discounted rail fares for older people.

Find your local council’s website and see if they offer rail deals for seniors.

Scotland – Discounted Senior Rail Travel

Senior adults in Scotland are eligible for FREE bus travel and reduced rail fares throughout Scotland.

National Entitlement Card (NEC)

The National Entitlement Card (NEC) allows older people in Scotland to get travel discounts. Although you get your NEC locally, they let anyone living in Scotland access all discounted travel schemes throughout Scotland.

To get an NEC card, you must be 60 years old and resident in Scotland.

Get a Scottish 60+ National Entitlement Card (NEC)

Rail Discounts in Edinburgh and Glasgow for the Over 60s

Scotland’s largest cities offer the following rail travel discounts:

• Glasgow – discounted rail travel on journeys within Strathclyde and Glasgow Subway
• Edinburgh – FREE tram journeys in Edinburgh

Rail Discounts Around Scotland

Reduced train fares for 60+ NEC holders are also available in other parts of Scotland. Find out from your local authority or Transport for Scotland .

Wales – Discounted Senior Rail Travel

You can get FREE bus travel if you live in Wales and are 60 or over. But some don’t realise that FREE rail travel is available in areas where bus travel is limited.

Welsh Concessionary Travel Pass

The Welsh Government Concessionary Travel Scheme covers travel discounts for older people in Wales. It offers FREE bus travel throughout Wales to residents aged 60+. Also, depending on the route, you get FREE and discounted rail travel.

Find out more about discounted senior rail travel in Wales

Northern Ireland – Discounted Rail Travel

SmartPasses cover travel discounts for senior citizens in Northern Ireland. These allow FREE bus and rail travel within Northern Ireland and throughout Ireland.

60+ Smartpass

If you’re between 60 and 64 and a permanent Northern Ireland resident, you can get a 60 Plus SmartPass. It entitles you to FREE bus and rail travel throughout Northern Ireland.

Senior (65+0 SmartPass

If you’re over 65 and a permanent Northern Ireland resident, you can get a Senior SmartPass. It entitles you to FREE bus and most rail travel throughout the whole of Ireland.

Find out about how to apply for SmartPasses

Senior rail travellers in the UK have plenty of options to get cheap train tickets, while others will be delighted to get them for FREE – Image credit: Nicolas Alejandro

If you’ve reached 50, you can benefit from cheaper rail tickets in Scotland. To make the most of the deals, you’ll need to weigh the costs of train tickets plus Club 50 or Senior Railcard membership.

You can still get deals in other parts of Britain if you’re 55 and over. Most run through the latter half of autumn and during the winter months.

It only takes travelling a few times a year for a Senior Railcard to save you money. These are available only for those over 60s.

Another option if you regularly travel with a partner or friend is to buy a Two Together Railcard , where you both save. A Family & Friends Railcard offers excellent savings if you like to take the grandchildren on trips out.

And don’t also forget to take advantage of regional and local council deals. London, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland residents can start benefiting from FREE or discounted rail travel when they’re 60. People throughout the rest of England have to wait until they’re 66, but there are still deals for those that look.

Image credits: Street Photography Addict , Bernie Lampert, Nicolas Alejandro

Pensioner Concession Fares

Online bookings are available for Queensland pensioners:   Book Now

Note:  This concession must be registered to your passenger profile before booking online for the first time. Please contact the Queensland Rail Travel Customer Contact Team on 1800 872 467 to register your concession prior to booking online.

Online bookings are available for interstate Australian ​​pensioners:  Book Now

Note:  Bookings can be made online without prior registration of your concession card on your passenger profile.

Q ueensland Pension Fare

Queensland pensioners enjoy four entitlements per calendar year aboard Queensland Rail Travel long-distance services. The four Queensland Pension rail travel entitlements can be utilised in various ways depending on the rail accommodation booked:

Interstate Australian Pension Fare​

On presentation of a current Pension Concession Card (PCC), interstate pensioners receive a discount of 25% off the full adult rail fare on Queensland Rail Travel long-distance services. Meals and upgrades to a sleeper or RailBed are not discounted and incur an additional cost.

Queensland Pension Fare

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• Driving and transport
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Apply for an older person's bus pass

If you live in england or wales.

In England you can get a bus pass for free travel when you reach the State Pension age .

If you live in London, you can travel free on buses, tubes and other transport when you’re 60, but only within London.

In Wales you can get a bus pass when you reach 60.

Enter your postcode to:

• apply for a bus pass from your local council
• check if you can get one sooner

Find a postcode on Royal Mail's postcode finder

If you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland

You get an older person’s bus pass when you’re 60. Apply if you’re in:

• Northern Ireland

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Check eligibility

Find out if you're eligible for concession travel as a pensioner

Get a Gold Opal card

Apply for a Gold Opal card on Opal website

about Pensioner Concession Card

If you have a Pensioner Concession Card issued by any Australian state or territory, you are entitled to concession fares on public transport in NSW.

Eligibility

The Pensioner Concession Card is your proof of entitlement to concession fares on public transport in NSW.

If you are receiving an eligible Centrelink payment, you will automatically receive a Pensioner Concession Card from Services Australia or the Department of Veterans' Affairs. You do not need to apply for a Pensioner Concession Card.

Once you have your Pensioner Concession Card, you will need it to apply for a Gold Opal card for trips in Sydney and surrounding areas, or when booking a trip on Regional trains and coaches.

Validity and replacement cards

When your card expires, it will automatically be reissued by Services Australia or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs if you continue to be eligible.

For a replacement Pensioner Concession Card, contact Centrelink or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs for free card replacement.

booking Ticket options

You must hold a valid Pensioner Concession Card at the time of booking on Regional services or applying for a Gold Senior/ Pensioner Opal card. You must also carry your Pensioner Concession Card when you travel as proof of entitlement or you may be fined. Transport entitlements do not extend to dependants listed on the reverse of the Pensioner Concession Card.

Concessions are generally not available on private ferries, event shuttles buses, chartered bus services and Great Southern Rail services.

opal Sydney and surrounding areas

In the Opal network , eligible pensioners are entitled to concession fares with a Gold Senior/ Pensioner Opal card.

Only the cardholder is eligible for this concession.

If you do not have your proof of entitlement card, you are required to pay for and travel with an Adult fare, or you may be fined for travelling on an invalid ticket .

How to get your Gold Opal card

To apply, you'll need your Pensioner Concession Card details handy.

Apply for a Gold Opal card online

Once your eligibility is confirmed, your Gold Opal card will be mailed to you within 5 to 7 working days.

You'll then need to activate your Opal card before you travel.

For a replacement Gold Opal card, call 13 67 25 (13 OPAL). A replacement fee may apply.

Sydney Airport train station access fee

Eligible pensioners pay the Concession Sydney Airport station access fee when travelling with a Gold Opal card to or from the airport train stations.

regional-train coach Regional trains and coaches

Nsw trainlink.

Eligible pensioners are entitled to concession fares on:

• privately-operated regular route local bus services in regional NSW
• all NSW TrainLink Regional services

This includes:

• $2.50 all day travel with the Regional Excursion Daily ticket on local buses
• $2.50 all day travel with the Country Pensioner Excursion ticket for booked NSW TrainLink Regional services
• Concession fares when you travel on interstate train service
• 4 single or 2 return free or discounted trips within NSW annually with Pensioner Travel Vouchers on NSW TrainLink Regional services. Booking fees apply for First Class travel.

No further concessions apply when booking sleeping berths.

Pensioner Concession Card and Seniors Card holders are no longer required to register their card details before booking a Country Pensioner Excursion fare online.

However you must be in possession of a valid concession card when travelling and are required to produce it to an authorised person upon request, otherwise the applicable fare will be charged.

Find out more about NSW TrainLink ticket fare rules for pensioners .

nsw-map Private-owned services

Other privately owned and operated services in regional NSW may offer a range of different concession fares.

However, certain free travel entitlements will also be provided under an arrangement with the Victorian and Queensland governments.

Not all concession fares and entitlements are available to non-NSW cardholders. Check with local transport operators for ticketing and fare information before you travel.

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• Tickets and passes

Travel pass for older people

Free travel for older people.

If you qualify for a state pension, you could be eligible for free travel across the country as part of the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme.

Do you qualify?

To get a travel pass for older people you must:

• live in Greater Manchester, (if you live outside Greater Manchester, apply for a pass in your own area but you cannot add tram and train travel within Greater Manchester to passes issued by other areas); and
• qualify for a state pension. It doesn't matter if you are taking your pension or still working.

The age you qualify for a state pension isn't the same for everyone. You may need to be up to 66 to qualify depending on when you were born. If you're not sure, check your state pension age .

Costs and benefits

The pass is free, and lasts for five years.

Within Greater Manchester:

• Travel for free on all buses within Greater Manchester between 9.30am and midnight, Monday to Friday, and all day at weekends and on public holidays.
• You can also choose to pay £10 to add tram and train to your pass, for a year’s unlimited off-peak travel on Metrolink and trains within Greater Manchester. You can then travel on Metrolink trams and in trains after 9.30am on Monday to Friday, and all day on weekends and public holidays.
• If you travel outside of these times you must pay the full adult fare.

Throughout England:

• Travel for free on all local buses between 9.30am and 11pm Monday to Friday, and all day at weekends and on public holidays.

How to use the pass

You must always remember to:

• touch in at the card reader when boarding buses
• touch in and touch out at a yellow smart reader on tram stops, for Metrolink
• touch in and out at train station ticket barriers, where they are in place

Please show your card, when asked, to any Transport for Greater Manchester or transport operator official during your journey.

Smart readers on tram stops now accept contactless cards and devices for travel. Please move your concessionary pass away from your payment cards when you use a smart reader.

For example, if you keep your pass in a wallet or purse, remove it before you touch-in and touch-out. This will make sure you’re not charged on a contactless card you didn’t intend to use.

Apply by post

Download an application form or get one from an Information and Ticket Office.

If you are eligible complete the relevant form and attach:

• A passport sized colour photograph of yourself
• Proof of age – a copy of either your birth certificate, medical card, passport or driving licence
• Proof of your address – a copy of either a utility bill, local council tax bill or a Department for Work and Pensions letter from within the last 12 months

You can take your form and proof to an Information and Ticket office (Travelshop) who can check it.

You can also post your documents to the address on the application form.

Your pass will be sent to you in the post within 10 working days.

Please do not send original documents .

Renew your pass

At least two weeks before your travel pass expires, we will send you a new pass, provided it has been in use.

If you use your card often then we will send you a new one two weeks before your travel pass runs out.

If you have not used your pass in the last 12 months, you will not be issued a new card and will need to contact us to request a new card after it’s expired. If you need a pass, please call our Concessionary Travel team on 0161 244 1000.

Please note: when using your pass, you must touch-in on buses and use the validators to touch-in and out on Metrolink or when using the trains.

If you don’t then your card will show as inactive.

Updating your address

You need to let us know if you change your address. There may be a £10 charge if a card is sent to an old address.

If you feel your appearance has changed since your last renewal, please send us a new photo. This can be done via post or can also be emailed to us.

If you no longer need your pass or have any other questions please call our Concessionary Travel team on 0161 244 1000.

If you need a replacement pass

It costs £10 to replace a lost, damaged or stolen pass.

To order a replacement pass you can:

• Call us on 0161 244 1000 to make a card payment (7am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 8pm at weekends).
• Visit an Information and Ticket office (Travelshop) to order and pay for a replacement pass.

Travel included with Co-op Live tickets

Co-op Live ticket holders can travel on the tram and new city centre shuttle buses.

Say yellow to the Bee Network

Buses in Oldham, Rochdale and parts of Bury, Salford and north Manchester joined the Bee Network on 24 March.

New sponsor: Starling Bank Bikes

We’re delighted to welcome Starling Bank on board as the new sponsors of our bike hire scheme.

Manchester City Matchday Buses

We've teamed up with Manchester City to launch a large-scale bus trial helping fans from across Greater Manchester and nearby areas to travel to and from the Etihad Stadium on a matchday.

Rate your journey

We want to hear your views to help us deliver a better Bee Network for Greater Manchester.

Planned engineering works on Metrolink

Visit our dedicated webpage to find out how the works could affect your journeys.

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Money latest: At what age do you reach peak earnings?

People are 47 before they reach peak earnings, data for 2023 shows - a huge increase from five years ago. Read about this and the rest of today's consumer and personal finance news in the Money blog, and leave a comment in the form below.

Friday 12 April 2024 07:25, UK

• UK economy grows slightly for second month in a row
• Prescription costs are rising - here's how to beat the hike
• At what age do you reach peak earnings
• Authentic or Greek-style? Your guide to getting healthier yoghurt for less
• Basically...  Tax codes
• Cheap Eats : Great British Menu legend shares ultimate toastie recipe

Ask a question or make a comment

Jeremy Hunt says the latest economy figures are a "welcome sign".

The chancellor said GDP growth of 0.1% shows "that the economy is turning a corner, and we can build on this progress if we stick to our plan".

"Last week our cuts to national insurance for 29 million working people came into effect across Britain, as part of our plan to reward work and grow the economy," he said in a statement.

The UK economy has grown slightly for the second month in a row, official figures show.

Gross domestic product (GDP) grew just 0.1% in February, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.

It's another signal that the UK economy is working its way out of recession.

Growth of 0.3% was recorded last month - and that figure has been revised upwards from a previous estimate of 0.2%.

A recession was declared in February after data showed two quarters of economic contraction.

If the economy expands for three months, the UK will be officially out of recession.

It can be hard to balance getting nutritious foods that make you feel good without emptying your wallet.

In this series every Friday, we're trying to find the cheapest ways to identify the healthiest options in the supermarket.

We've asked  Sunna Van Kampen,  founder of  Tonic Health ,  who went viral on social media for reviewing supermarket products in the search of healthier choices, for his input. 

The series does not aim to identify the outright healthiest option, rather how to get better nutritional value for as little money as possible.

This time we're looking at yogurt - specifically the differences between some of the most popular: authentic Greek and Greek-style. 

"You have to watch out for Greek-style yoghurt masquerading as the authentic variety," Sunna says. 

Typical Greek-style yoghurt has around 4.6g of sugar per 100g, he says.

But swivel your cart towards the authentic Greek yoghurt, and you'll find only 3.3g per 100g.

"That's an impressive 28% reduction in sugar content, or a teaspoon of sugar a day if you have a 300g portion." 

To be clear - this isn't added sugar, this is the naturally-occurring kind from lactose in the milk.

Protein is the building block of our bodies, and something around 66% of Brits don't get enough of.

"Authentic Greek yoghurt boasts around double the protein content of its Greek-style cousins - with branded versions having 9g per 100g compared to just 3.7g per 100g," Sunna says. 

This means in a typical 300g bowl, you are getting 27g of protein versus only 11.1g in Greek-style. 

Here's the bottom line - it is more expensive, but the investment is worth it, Sunna says. 

• Greek-style yoghurt – supermarket own label – 22p per 100g
• Authentic Greek yoghurt - supermarket own label – 46p per 100g
• Authentic Greek yoghurt – branded versions – 50-58p per 100g

"Okay, so we are talking double the price, but you get what you pay for with double the protein," Sunna says.

Think of it this way - every 300g bowl is an extra 72p per day for nearly 16g of extra protein and nearly 30% less sugar. 

"Far cheaper than what you'd pay for a protein bar with the same amount of protein," Sunna notes. 

The key here: value isn't exclusive to the price tag - and investing in your health is more important than ever. 

So, next time you're navigating the dairy aisle, remember that not all yoghurts are created equal - opting for authentic Greek yoghurt can be a small but effective step towards a healthier diet without breaking the bank.

The nutritionist's view - from  Dr Laura Brown , senior lecturer in nutrition, food, and health sciences at Teesside University...

Yes, absolutely for a source of protein. 

Yogurt is better than protein bars and powders that are full of protein, as they come along with a long list of other potentially artificial ingredients that are not necessary. 

If we are looking at yoghurts from a health perspective, then you're definitely wanting to look for this style - natural, Greek, low sugar or sugar free but not fat-free! 

Families should avoid investing in sugar-laden yoghurts that do not serve any nutritional purposes. 

If someone is eating yoghurt specifically as a source of protein, then there are much better sources like beans and lentils which are affordable and will provide other additional benefits including fibre. 

The price of a prescription is set to to rise from £9.65 to £9.90 in England in May - but there are ways you can save money on your medicines.

Fee-free options remain in place for some, such as those who are pregnant, have certain disabilities, students or the elderly.

But if you're not exempt, there are still some means of cutting the costs of treatments.

Prepayment certificates

Prescription prepayment certificates (PPC) cover NHS prescriptions over a given time period, no matter how many medicines you need.

There are two options: A three-month PPC (£32.05 from May), which will start to save you money if you buy four or more prescriptions in that period, or a 12-month PPC (£114.50), which pays off if you buy 12 or more in a year.

Ask for a larger prescription

Doctors may agree to prescribe a longer course of medicine - such as two months' worth instead of one, halving the cost.

Just ask the question - they might say yes, especially if there's no danger of overuse.

Menopause medication

The NHS offers a particular PPC for hormone replacement therapy.

It lasts for 12 months and costs £19.30, rising to £19.80 from 1 May.

Women can use the PCC as many times as they need within the year.

You might not need a prescription

For some ailments, there are over-the-counter options sold cheaper than their prescribed alternative. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

People are 47 before they reach peak earnings, data for 2023 shows - a huge increase from five years ago.

Office for National Statistics figures show the age for the highest average wage had risen from 38 in 2013 and 40 in 2018.

In 2023, this highest average wage (gross median hourly earnings, including overtime) was £18.78 per hour.

The ONS said: "While the age at which earnings peak has changed, the overall trends in earnings throughout a person’s working career have remained very similar. 

"Young people earn the lowest hourly wage, people aged between 30 and 50 earn the most and median hourly earnings fall from around age 50 until retirement.

"Whilst median earnings fall between age 50 and retirement, this does not mean that individuals' pay will decrease. 

"Higher earners may retire early, reducing the median wage of those remaining in employment, and people may change roles and hours worked."

Yesterday we reported on ONS data showing the age at which people reach life milestones - with all of them being pushed later in life except one...

Fake flights and caravans are the two most common items being sold by fraudsters in relation to travel, Lloyds Bank's research has found.

As Britons head online to book deals for the upcoming bank holidays and summer, they have been urged to "remain vigilant", with the average holiday scam victim being conned out of £765.

Amid rising flight costs post-COVID, people have been flocking to social media and other lesser-known websites to secure cheaper deals.

A food delivery company claims to have created an  "unshakeable bag" to avoid spillage in transit.

Bolt, which owns the Bolt Food delivery platform, said its design is based on gyroscope technology and will keep food stable "during the most abrupt movements".

In a post to its website, the firm said it would make the design available to its competitors as it is "too powerful to be owned by any one company".

"We believe everyone should enjoy a perfect meal, regardless of which app they order it from," it said.

Assaulting a shopworker is to be made a separate criminal offence after a government U-turn following pressure from campaigners.

The government previously said "more legislative change" was not needed to tackle the "intolerable violence and abuse" faced by shopworkers, arguing it did not think it was "required or will be most effective".

But Rishi Sunak is now set to announce his government will be amending the Criminal Justice Bill to bring in the new offence.

The drugmaker was on its knees when Sir Pascal Soriot took over in 2012. 

But under his leadership it now does just about everything the UK wants from a business - creating high value-added jobs and developing products that improve people's lives.

The FTSE 100's performance has lagged that of many of its peers, both in the United States and Europe, more or less since the Brexit vote in 2016.

That poor performance has reflected the poor valuation of many UK-listed companies - resulting in numerous foreign takeovers of UK businesses in recent months and years.

It has also led to a scarcity in the number of companies floating on the London Stock Exchange, most notably the  Cambridge-based chip designer ARM Holdings , which last year opted to list in the US instead.

The situation has alarmed the government, which has announced a number of reforms  aimed at raising the UK's attractiveness .

An imminent shareholder vote on Sir Pascal's pay makes a particularly interesting test case because few would dispute that he has been the most outstanding FTSE 100 chief executive of his generation.

This rise could take his potential earnings to £18.5m this year - which critics say is excessive.

Read my full piece here ...

England's average house price has risen by £103,000 over the last decade, while the average annual wage has risen by £7,734.

But some areas have seen homeownership affordability decline more than others... 

The London borough of Barking and Dagenham has seen the most significant fall, according to moving platform Getamover. 

The platform found the area has seen house prices more than double to £380,000 in the last 10 years - but wages have only risen by £2,182. 

Hillingdon in West London took the second spot, with the average property shooting up by £230,000 to £495,000, while the average income increased by just £143. 

While London remains the most unaffordable region, the East Midlands has also seen a notable fall. 

Oadby and Wigston in Leicestershire ranked fifth in the table, with the average house price increasing by £129,000 and the median annual income growing by £2,644.   

Gedling ranks sixth among the areas of England where the affordability of buying a home has declined most. 

The Nottinghamshire region has seen house prices soar by 84.8% to £231,000, while the average income has risen by just 13.11% to £33,454. 

You can see how other areas fared in the table below...

Rishi Sunak's post-Brexit rules for foreign workers are getting tough press in Italy this week - with claims they could mark the end of Italian waiters in London.

April saw the minimum salary requirement for a skilled worker visa increase from £26,200 to £38,700 - a near 50% rise as the government tries to reduce immigration.

Italian daily newspaper La Repubblica published an article on its site headlined "Italians in London, the long goodbye" after the new rule was brought in this month.

There were an estimated 342,000 Italians living in the UK in 2021, according to the latest Office for National Statistics census data.

La Repubblica said the new rule change would lead to the "end of the story" of Italy's "ancient roots" in the capital, which was founded by the Romans in 43 AD.

Separately, Italian journalist Antonio Polito wrote in the Corriere della Sera newspaper that the new salary for skilled workers was "an amount that no young novice can realistically earn".

"Thus London gives up one of its great assets, the fact of being an offshore and cosmopolitan city," he said.

Mr Sunak's post-Brexit rule change has worried hospitality bosses who are still struggling to get to grips with a post-COVID reality and rising costs. 

Conor Sheridan, founder of Nory and Mad Egg restaurant chain, previously told the Money blog that roughly 14% of his 15,000 UK employee base were on working visas that could be affected.

Trade body UKHospitality also said the changes would "further shrink the talent pool that the entire economy will be recruiting from".

As the migration law came in, Home Secretary James Cleverly said it was "time to turn off the taps and end the flow of cheap workers from abroad".

"We are refocusing our immigration system to prioritise the brightest and best who have the skills our economy needs, while reducing overall numbers," he said.

Several of the UK's biggest supermarkets closed their gender pay gap in the last year - while Morrisons saw the biggest rise, figures show.

Ocado and Lidl reduced their gap by the largest amounts in 2023-24 compared to the previous year, while Tesco, Asda, Aldi, Co-op, Iceland and Waitrose owner John Lewis also saw a reduction.

The data comes from the government's gender pay gap service and states the difference in hourly rates of pay. 

In contrast to other big-name brands, Morrisons saw its mean pay gap widen to 12.5% from 7.6%. M&S also saw a slight increase from 12.5% to 12.6%.

The mean figure gives the best overall view of the gender pay gap but includes extreme values which could skew the average.

Of the 11 biggest UK supermarkets, Co-op has the largest pay gap with 13.2%, followed by M&S and Morrisons.

An M&S spokesperson said: "We're committed to driving equal opportunities and making M&S a great place to work for women. Encouragingly our median pay gap has decreased, and women now make up more than 50% of our UK store management population, but we know there is more to do. 

"We're making progress with the launch of new initiatives, talent programmes, and policies, including our flexible working offer – Worklife, a Job Share Finder, and our industry-leading family leave offer."

A spokesperson for Co-op said: "We are committed to treating our colleague member owners fairly, and this includes driving equitable outcomes for female colleagues. We've seen a significant reduction in our gender pay gap since we started to report data in 2017, and this year's data shows further progress towards closing it.

"It's important to reiterate that we don't pay people differently based on their gender at Co-op. The gender pay gap is caused by us having fewer females in leadership role, where salaries are higher.

"Our focus on improving representation remains, as we know this is one of the key drivers causing the gender pay gap. Today, 40% of our leadership population are female - this is not enough, which is why we’ve launched a series of development programmes and have a coaching and mentoring offer to support women with career progression.

"We know there’s still much to do in this space and will hold ourselves to account and continue to strive for gender equality."

Morrisons has also been contacted for comment.

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