How to Travel on Interrail

Europe has some of the best train systems in the world. Traveling by train is an excellent way to really experience the country and meet people. For Europeans traveling through Europe, the InterRail pass is a great option, allowing pass holders unlimited travel to 26 countries during a set time period. It is considerably cheaper than purchasing individual tickets. Consider the InterRail pass if you plan to be traveling quite a bit by train.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step 1

Make sure that you qualify for an InterRail pass. InterRail passes are only available for European Union citizens or those non-EU citizens who can prove that they have been residing in Europe for six or more months. If you do not qualify for an InterRail pass then you should apply instead for the Eurail pass, which is very similar.

Step 2

Select the pass that best suits your travel needs. You can buy either a single-country pass or you can purchase the Global InterRail pass, which covers travel throughout most of Europe. Passes can be for continuous travel (several days in a row) or flexible travel. For instance, you could get a flex pass for 5 travel days within a 10-day period.

Step 3

Purchase an InterRail pass. You can do this on a number of websites, such as Rail Europe.

Step 4

Purchase a copy of the Thomas Cook European Rail timetable, which has schedules for rail and ferry throughout Europe.

Step 5

Get your InterRail pass validated. On the first day that you plan to travel, take your InterRail pass to the train station and get it validated before catching your train. Give yourself an extra 30 minutes to do this.

Tips & Warnings

High-speed trains will require a reservation before travel. Overnight trains require a supplemental payment for a couchette.

High-speed trains will require a reservation before travel.

Overnight trains require a supplemental payment for a couchette.

InterRail passes are not valid for free travel in your country of residence. InterRail passes are not valid on Eurostar; however, InterRail pass holders are entitled to discounted rates on Eurostar.

InterRail passes are not valid for free travel in your country of residence.

InterRail passes are not valid on Eurostar; however, InterRail pass holders are entitled to discounted rates on Eurostar.

Resources

Rail Europe

Article Written By Shiromi Nassreen

Shiromi Nassreen has been writing professionally since 2005. She specializes in travel and outdoor topics, and her articles have appeared in various print and online publications, including "DISfunkshion Magazine" and Matador Travel. Nassreen holds a Bachelor of Arts in theatre studies from Rose Bruford College of Speech & Drama.

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