WHY YOU SHOULD TRAVEL TO EUROPE BY TRAIN?
Travelling by train in Europe is simple, comfortable, picturesque, and economical.
Photo by Josh Nezon
When compared to flying, your journeys will be much easier and more comfortable, with far less chance of being charged extra for luggage or checking in! Most of Europe has excellent high-speed networks, and even on slower routes, you'll get stunning views and more room to stretch your legs. Overland travel allows you to experience the terrain change before your eyes, from mountains to coastal panoramas to flat plains. Bring a picnic or stop by the buffet wagon for a meal with a view. If you want to add a touch of luxury to the trip, you can upgrade to first class.
When you arrive, you'll usually find yourself in the middle of the city, making it simple to go to the hotel. There will be no need for luggage reclaim or cabs!
About Interrail/Eurail
Interrail and Eurail passes are two types of European rail passes used for train travel throughout Europe. Both types of passes function similarly; your nationality or place of residence determines which type of pass you require. Each pass enables you to travel by rail inside and between European nations. The passes are good for a specific number of travel days within a given time frame.
You qualify for an Interrail pass if:
1. You are a European citizen (or have dual citizenship) and have a European passport.
2. A non-European citizen who has spent at least six months in a European country.
If neither of these restrictions applies to you, you'll require a Eurail pass.
Interrail and Eurail passes are available in a variety of configurations and for persons of all ages.
There is a price discount for those under the age of 28 and those above the age of 60, so make sure you tell them the proper age category, or your pass will be invalid. Don't think you can save money by "appearing young" - your passport number and date of birth will be displayed on the ticket, so you won't get away with it!
Photo by Daniel Abadia
Passes for one country versus global passes:
Interrail and Eurail passes are available in a number of pricing ranges, and you can purchase either a "Single Country" or a "Global" pass. You'll also need to decide how long you want to utilise the global pass for:
A Single nation pass, which is always valid for one month but only inside a single country (or a selection of countries in the case of the Benelux pass), can be purchased.
Alternatively, you can purchase a "Global" pass that is valid throughout Europe (or at least the majority of it). You can use them for as little as 5 days or as long as 60 days! Each option is priced differently.
Photo by Ales Krivec
What does an Interrail travel day entail?
A "Travel day" on Interrail is a day where you will use your pass to travel by train from one of your destinations to the next. There is no limit to the number of trains you can take in a 24-hour period beginning at midnight.
You will be asked how many "travel days" you wish to have within the usage time (up to 2 months).
The following are the interrail choices (from cheapest to most expensive):
5 travel days throughout the course of one month
7 travel days during the course of one month
10 travel days during a two-month period
15 travel days over the course of two months
Within a 22-day period, travel every day
Within a month or two, travel every day
The number of days differs somewhat for Eurail, but the premise remains the same.