I’m a seasoned Europe rail advocate; I try to take trains (instead of flying) as much as possible around the continent.
Europe’s potentially the best place in the world to travel by train – cities are close, there are some fantastic high-speed networks (Renfe in Spain is my favourite) and trains are generally comfortable and clean.
But there are a few important things to know if you’re travelling Europe by rail. These can help you save money and have a much more comfortable journey!
Here are my top Europe train travel tips.
Book in advance
While some regional trains don’t require reservations, high-speed routes like the Barcelona to Madrid train and international services like Eurostar nearly always do.
Booking early ensures better prices and a reserved seat. Websites such as Rail Europe or the relevant national rail provider are good starting points.
Know your rail pass options
If you’re on a Europe rail trip and you’re planning on taking a lot of trains, a Eurail Pass (for non-EU residents) or Interrail Pass (for EU residents) is an excellent cost-effective option.
These passes cover a wide range of countries and routes – but they may require seat reservations on some services, which can come at an extra fee.
Be sure to check if a reservation is needed for specific journeys!
Understand ticket validation
In many countries, such as Italy or France, paper tickets must be validated before boarding. This is applicable whether you’re taking regional trains or longer journeys like the Rome to Florence train.
Look for small machines at platforms where you can stamp your ticket. Failure to do so could lead to fines.
Usually, e-tickets don’t need to be validated – but double-check the terms before travelling.
Be punctual but flexible
European trains have had more and more delays in recent years – but most of them run more or less on time.
It’s recommended, therefore, to arrive at the platform 10-15 minutes ahead of departure.
Regional trains, particularly in countries like Spain or Italy, can sometimes face delays – so it’s a good idea to factor this into your plans.
Pack light and keep an eye on your luggage
Luggage storage on trains is generally available, but space can be limited during peak hours. If you’re taking large items, you might want to arrange to travel when the train is less busy!
Keep your belongings close (especially your valuables) and be mindful of overhead or designated luggage racks at the end of each carriage.
Bring snacks and water
Many trains in Europe have food carts or dining cars, and dining at these is always an option.
However, it’s never guaranteed that you’ll have one or that they’ll stock adequate food. If you have specific dietary requirements or are on a train for a long time, you might want to pack your own food.
Not all dining carts accept cards (although most do), so have some cash as well, just in case.
Download relevant apps
Most rail networks have apps that allow you to check schedules, receive delay notifications, and store e-tickets. If you’re taking the train in a particular country, download that app before you travel.
Plan for border crossings
Though many European countries are part of the Schengen Zone, meaning passport checks are rare, some non-Schengen countries (like the UK or Serbia) still require them. Always have your passport or ID on hand, as you could be asked for it at Schengen borders as well.
Use night trains for budget-friendly travel
Night trains, such as ÖBB Nightjet (based in Austria) or SNCF Intercités de Nuit (based in France), can save on accommodation costs and make longer distances more efficient.
You won’t need to pay for a hotel, so you may end up saving money than the day trains!
On these trains, you can usually choose a seat or sleeper cabin. Sleeper cabins end up costing more, but you’ll likely have a much comfier night’s sleep! Often, there are private and shared cabin options.
If you’re a woman, you might choose a female-only shared cabin, which are possible on most networks.
Keep an eye on your location
When travelling in foreign countries, you might find it hard to keep track of where you are – and you definitely don’t want to miss your stop!
I’d recommend keeping an eye on your location to ensure that you stay updated of your whereabouts and know when you’re approaching your destination.
Pack a power bank
Likewise, don’t forget to pack a power bank to make sure that you stay connected. This will help you track your location, access your tickets (if they’re e-tickets) and find out where to go at the other end.
Charging sockets are often available on trains, but they can not work, so a power bank is essential.
Check the terms for ticket printing
Some rail networks, such as the international OBB trains, require e-tickets to be printed rather than just shown as e-tickets. Make sure you suss out whether you need to print your ticket ahead of time!
Usually, hotels will happily print your ticket free of charge (if you’re a guest).
Europe by rail: it’s a great idea!
With high-speed routes and excellent connectivity, you’ll love exploring Europe by rail. Follow these tips for a hassle-free trip!
