How to Travel Around Europe by Train

Perhaps you're a travel enthusiast with a list of cities in mind; that is, you already know where you want to go and what dates you would like to travel on. Or perhaps you know what countries you want to travel to, but would prefer to wait until you're in Europe to make definitive plans. Either way, a Eurail pass makes train travel around Europe convenient and easy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step 1

Select a pass. You have several different types of passes to choose from. Some of the more popular passes include: France Rail Pass, Eurail Italy Pass, Swiss Pass, Eurail Select Pass, Eurail Global Pass, German Rail Pass, Eurail Spain Pass and Eurail France-Italy Pass. Eurail passes also provide discounts or free fares on ferries, cruises, private trains, hotels, museums and other attractions (see Resources).

Step 2

Make a reservation. Even if you have a pass you might still want to make a reservation. You can call the contact information on the pass or use the online service. Reservations ensure your seat in case of a sold-out train. You will need to know your destination, number of travelers, date and travel time.

Step 3

Select the specific destination for point-to-point service. If you know exactly where you would like to go, and have no need for a pass, simply locate these cities on the Eurail website (see Resources) or contact a Eurail travel agent.

Step 4

Choose from Economy, Freedom, Comfort and Premier classes for overnight accommodation. Economy class provides a reclining chair; Freedom class provides a shared apartment (up to six); Comfort class is one step up from Freedom class and provides a compartment with two or three beds; and Premier class is equivalent to a hotel on wheels, and includes a private shower, toilet and all food and drinks.

Step 5

Book your ticket or pass. Use raileurope.com or your local travel agent. You can also call Rail Europe seven days a week: Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and Saturday through Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time at (800) 622-8600 in the United States or (800) 361-RAIL (7245) in Canada.

Resources

Eurail Pass List

Article Written By Contributing Writer

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