How to Travel Europe by Train (2025 Guide for First-Timers + Budget Tips)

If you’re wondering how to travel Europe by train, you’re in the right carriage. I spent five years living in the UK, and some of my best memories come from hopping on trains during various vacations and mini-breaks across the continent.

From small regional trains around Portugal to scenic trains winding through the Alps, rail travel became my favorite way to explore Europe’s cities, countryside, and coastlines.

Over the years, I’ve figured out the ins and outs of European train travel: when to book tickets in advance, which scenic train routes are worth the detour, and how to get the most out of a Eurail Global Pass or One Country Pass.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the full spectrum of European train travel—from whether a Eurail Pass will actually save you money, to how to book tickets, decode seat reservations, navigate busy stations with ease, and know exactly what to expect once you’re onboard.

Ready? Let’s go!

Is Train Travel in Europe Right for You?

Before you start plotting scenic train routes and downloading the Rail Planner app, it’s worth asking: is traveling Europe by train the best fit for your trip?

For many travelers—especially first-timers and those on a mid-range or budget—the answer is a big yes. Train travel in Europe is efficient, eco-friendly, and way less stressful than flying. You get to skip the airport chaos, see the countryside roll by, and often arrive right in the heart of the city.

That said, it’s not always the cheapest option. In some places (looking at you, Spain and France), high-speed routes require advance booking and seat reservations, which can add up. If you’re traveling long distances on a tight timeline, budget airlines might technically save you money—but at the cost of comfort, sustainability, and probably your sanity.

Train travel is best if you want to:

• Visit multiple cities or countries without renting a car
• Take your time and enjoy the journey itself
• Avoid airport hassles and hidden airline fees
• Travel solo or as a pair, especially with light luggage
• Get off the beaten path with spontaneous stops

I’ve used trains to crisscross the UK, hop between major hubs like Paris and Geneva, and meander through rural Portugal. If you value flexibility, comfort, and views you just can’t get from a plane window, then European train travel is 100% worth it.

Understanding the European Rail System

Before you hop aboard your first European train, it helps to get a feel for how the system works. With dozens of countries, rail providers, and train types, it might look overwhelming at first—but trust me, once you’re in it, it’s one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to travel.

High-Speed vs. Regional vs. Scenic Trains

One of the first things you’ll notice? Not all trains are created equal.

• High-speed trains (aka speed trains) like the Eurostar, TGV, or ICE zip you between major cities at up to 300 km/h (186 mph!). These are the best for covering big distances—think London to Paris in under 2.5 hours.
• Regional trains are slower but often much cheaper and don’t usually require seat reservations. Perfect for shorter hops, countryside detours, or just slowing down.
• Scenic trains are all about the views. Routes like Switzerland’s Glacier Express and Bernina Express, or even Porto to Douro Valley in Portugal offer jaw-dropping landscapes worth every minute on the tracks.

If you’re planning a rail-heavy trip, try mixing and matching all three types to balance cost, speed, and vibes.

Popular Rail Providers You’ll Run Into

Europe doesn’t have just one system—it’s a patchwork of countries and companies that mostly play well together. Here are a few of the big names you’ll want to recognize:

• Eurostar – Connects the UK with France, Belgium, and the Netherlands (via the Channel Tunnel)
• SNCF – France’s sleek national rail operator
• Trenitalia & Italo – Italy’s two major providers, both great for zipping between cities
• DB (Deutsche Bahn) – Germany’s incredibly efficient and easy-to-navigate system
• ÖBB (Austria), Renfe (Spain), SBB (Switzerland), and NS (Netherlands) are also super user-friendly

When traveling cross-border, these companies usually share timetables and tickets—but it’s always a good idea to double-check if you need to transfer trains or rebook through another site.

How It All Connects: Timetables, Stations & Transfers

One of the best parts of train travel in Europe is how well connected everything is. In most major cities, central stations are walkable from the old town or a quick tram ride away. No long rides from remote airports or early check-ins here.

Train times are typically reliable, but always build in a buffer if you need to make a connection (especially with regional trains, which can run a little late).

You’ll often find:

• Clearly marked platforms
• Timetables posted at every station
• Announcements in English (especially in Western Europe)
• Easy transfers—even for international journeys

Eurail Pass vs. Point-to-Point Tickets: Which Should You Choose?

One of the biggest decisions when planning to travel Europe by train is whether to go all-in with a Eurail Global Pass or book individual point-to-point train tickets as you go.

Having done both over the course of many train trips across Europe, here’s what I’ve learned—and what you should know to make the right choice for your trip.

Eurail Pass: Best for Flexibility + Multi-Country Itineraries

The Eurail Pass (for non-Europeans, Interrail for Europeans) gives you access to train travel in up to 33 countries, including popular destinations like France, Italy, Germany, and the Czech Republic, as well as more off-the-beaten-path places like Montenegro, Slovakia, and Lithuania.

Why it’s great:

• One upfront cost = easier budgeting
• Perfect for spontaneous travelers
• Works well for scenic train routes or loop itineraries
• Comes with the Rail Planner app to check train times and schedules

Watch out for:

• Some high-speed trains (like the Eurostar) and popular routes require seat reservations, which cost extra
• Not every train is included, especially in the UK and parts of Eastern Europe
• More expensive if you’re only taking a few trains

A Global Pass is best if you’re traveling to multiple countries in a short time or want the freedom to hop on a train at the last minute. Check out my full guide to figuring out if the Eurail Pass is worth it for you!

Point-to-Point Tickets: Best for Shorter Trips + Budget Travelers

If your route is straightforward — say, Paris to Amsterdam to Berlin — then booking individual train tickets might be the smarter move.

Why it’s great:

• Often cheaper if booked in advance (especially in countries like Spain, Germany, and Austria)
• Great for slow travel or staying longer in each place
• No need to track “travel days” or pass validity

Watch out for:

• Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date
• Less flexibility for last-minute changes

If you’re only visiting one country or traveling slowly over a longer period, point-to-point can save you money. But if your trip looks more like a whirlwind Grand Tour of Europe by train, a pass could be your best friend.

How to Plan Your Europe Train Travel (Without Getting Overwhelmed)

Okay, you’ve decided to travel Europe by train — now what?

Planning your rail itinerary might seem overwhelming at first (especially if you’re bouncing between countries), but with the right tools and a few pro tips, it becomes surprisingly fun. Think of it like piecing together a puzzle—except the prize is sipping cappuccinos in Italy or watching the Alps roll by from your window.

Step 1: Sketch Out Your Route

Start with your must-visit destinations. Are you dreaming of art museums in Paris, fjords in Norway, or tapas in Spain? Plot those on a map first.

Then ask:

• Are your stops well-connected by train? (Most cities in Western and Central Europe are.)
• Do you want to travel in a loop or a line?
• How much time do you actually want to spend on the train?

Pro tip: High-speed trains are great for covering long distances (like Madrid to Barcelona), while regional trains are perfect for scenic slow travel (like the Rhine Valley in Germany).

Step 2: Use a Rail Planner or Train Map

To figure out connections and train times, use:

• Rail Planner App – Works offline and shows which trains are covered by the Eurail Pass
• RailEurope – The best place to book all your point-to-point train tickets
• Omio – Great for comparing prices and travel durations
• Rome2Rio – Ideal for seeing whether train, bus, or flight makes the most sense

If you’re going off the beaten path—like to Liechtenstein, Montenegro, or Slovakia—check if trains go there or if you’ll need a bus connection.

Step 3: Book Seats (When Needed)

When you’re traveling on a Eurail Pass, some trains require seat reservations, especially:

• High-speed trains in France, Italy, and Spain
• Night trains and sleeper trains
• The Eurostar (London to Paris/Amsterdam/Brussels)

You can usually book seat reservations through the Eurail website, the Rail Planner app, or directly with national train operators. Prices range from €3–€30, depending on the country and class.

Not every train needs a reservation—many in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland don’t, especially regional ones. You can just hop on with your pass.

Booking Your Train Travel in Europe

When it comes to train tickets in Europe, booking is easy—once you know where (and when) to look. Whether you’re using a Eurail Pass or paying point-to-point, here’s exactly how to book, when to make seat reservations, and how to snag those coveted sleeper berths.

How to Book Tickets

You’ve got a few options when it comes to booking train travel in Europe:

• Omio – This app/website is a lifesaver. It compares multiple train providers across countries, shows real-time prices, and lets you book everything from budget buses to high-speed trains.
• Rail Europe – Great for booking multiple legs in one place, especially if you’re coming from North America and want to pre-plan.
• Directly on train company websites – This is often the cheapest option. For example:
  • SNCF for France
  • Trenitalia or Italo for Italy
  • DB (Deutsche Bahn) for Germany
  • Eurostar.com for the UK to mainland Europe
  • ÖBB for Austria (also great for booking night trains across Europe)

Just be sure to double-check whether you’re booking a full ticket or just a seat reservation—especially if you’re using a Eurail or Interrail pass.

When and How to Book Seat Reservations

Not all trains require seat reservations, but for high-speed, international, and overnight trains, they’re often mandatory.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Eurostar booking always requires a seat reservation—even with a pass. These can sell out, so book as early as possible.
• TGV (France), AVE (Spain), and most Italian high-speed trains require reservations.
• Regional trains usually don’t need them—you can hop on and sit wherever.

How to reserve seats: If you have a Eurail pass, reserve your seats using the Rail Planner app. Otherwise, you’ll reserve your seats when you’re booking the ticket online or at the station.

Sleeper Trains & Overnight Routes

Want to save on a night in a hotel and wake up in a new country? Europe’s sleeper trains are a dream (literally).

Top options include:

• ÖBB Nightjet (Austria-based, but runs all over Central Europe)
• Intercités de Nuit in France
• Trenhotel (Spain and Portugal)

When booking, you’ll usually choose from:

• Seat – Cheapest but least comfy
• Couchette – Shared bunks, usually 4–6 beds
• Sleeper cabin – Private or shared compartments with beds and sometimes en-suite bathrooms

Pro tip: Overnight trains often require reservations even if you have a pass, and prices go up the closer you book to departure.

Booking Early vs. Last Minute

Europe’s rail system isn’t like flying—it’s much more flexible. But that doesn’t mean you should always wing it.

• Book early (1–3 months out) for high-speed trains and Eurostar. You’ll save serious money and get your pick of class and seat type.
• Book last minute if you’re traveling on regional trains or have a pass and want to stay flexible.
• If you’re on a tight budget, look for “supersaver” fares or flash sales—especially in Germany, Italy, and France.

Tip from experience: Even with a Eurail pass, it’s worth mapping out the trains you really don’t want to miss and locking in your seat reservations in advance.

What About Buying Tickets at the Station?

In many countries, you can also buy tickets directly at the train station, either at a staffed counter or from a ticket machine. This can be helpful for spontaneous travel days or shorter regional trips where prices don’t fluctuate much.

Just keep in mind that for popular routes, high-speed trains, and long-distance journeys, advance booking is usually cheaper and gives you more control over your seat class and timing.

Some ticket offices may have limited English-speaking staff, so it’s helpful to know your destination, time, and train number in advance or show them on your phone.

How to Travel Europe by Train on a Budget

Let’s be real: Europe by train can get pricey fast… but it doesn’t have to. With a little planning (and some flexible expectations), you can save serious money and still have the scenic train journey of your dreams.

Here’s how I’ve kept costs down while zig-zagging across the continent—without giving up cappuccinos or castle views.

1. Use a Eurail Pass Strategically

The Eurail Global Pass (or One Country Pass) can be a budget lifesaver if you’re traveling frequently over a short period—think 4 to 10 travel days in one month.

It’s best for:

• Multi-country itineraries (like France → Italy → Slovenia → Croatia)
• Travelers under 27 (you get a youth discount!)
• Spontaneous plans where you don’t want to book every train in advance

But it’s not always the cheapest. If you’re only traveling every few days or sticking to one country like Poland, Portugal, or Czech Republic, point-to-point might win out.

Tip: Use the Rail Planner App to see which trains require seat reservations and factor those fees into your pass cost.

2. Compare with Point-to-Point Tickets

For slower-paced travel or less-popular routes, booking individual train tickets is often cheaper—especially when booked 1–3 months ahead.

I love using:

• Omio or RailEurope for comparing fares
• National rail websites like DB (Germany), SNCF (France), or ÖBB (Austria)

Off-peak times (like midday or midweek) are usually cheaper, and regional trains can cost as little as €5–10.

3. Skip First Class Unless It’s Free

It’s tempting, I know—but second class in Europe is usually perfectly comfy, clean, and safe. I’ve met more locals in second class and saved enough on tickets to splurge on wine and pastries later.

Only consider first class if:

• It’s included with your Eurail pass upgrade
• You need guaranteed peace and quiet for work or rest
• There’s a special promo (sometimes the upgrade costs just €5 more!)

4. Take Advantage of Overnight Trains

Night trains = travel and accommodation in one. Yes, they’re not always the most restful sleep, but waking up in a new country is pretty magical.

Popular routes include:

• Vienna to Venice
• Berlin to Budapest
• Paris to Nice

Just remember: you’ll often need a seat reservation for these (even with a pass), and they book up fast.

5. Travel Slowly

The more you move, the more you spend. So slow down, stay longer in each place, and take short scenic train routes instead of always aiming for big distances.

Some budget-friendly gems:

• The Rhine Valley (Germany)
• Porto to Lisbon (Portugal) – stop in spots like Aveiro and Obidos on the way.
• Ljubljana to Lake Bled (Slovenia)

Navigating Train Stations in Europe

Whether you’re catching a high-speed Eurostar or a sleepy regional train through the Italian countryside, train stations in Europe can be a little chaotic—especially the big ones. But don’t worry—once you know what to expect, they’re surprisingly manageable (and way less stressful than airports).

Big City vs. Small Town Train Stations: What to Expect

Not all train stations in Europe are created equal—and knowing the difference between a major hub and a tiny rural platform can help you plan accordingly.

In big cities like Paris, Berlin, or Milan, train stations are more like mini airports. Think: multiple floors, dozens of platforms, departure boards that flip every few seconds, and a steady stream of commuters, tourists, and locals.

These stations often have amenities like restaurants, luggage lockers, currency exchange, and even full grocery stores. But they can also feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time navigating European rail. Arrive early, follow the signage carefully (or use Google Translate’s camera tool), and give yourself extra time to find your platform.

On the other hand, small town stations. One or two platforms, no ticket counter (just a self-service machine if you’re lucky), and maybe a bench or two to sit on while you wait. Sometimes the “station” is little more than a signpost and a timetable.

The good news? They’re incredibly easy to navigate. The challenge? No on-site help if something goes wrong—so always check schedules in advance and download your ticket before arriving.

Arrive Early, But Not Too Early

Most stations don’t post platform information until 15–20 minutes before departure, so showing up too early might just mean hanging around watching the boards.

That said, aim to arrive at least 30 minutes early—especially if it’s a major station like Paris Gare du Nord, Roma Termini, or Berlin Hauptbahnhof, where finding your platform can be a trek.

If you’re in a small town with only 1 or 2 platforms, you can get away with showing up 15 minutes early if it doesn’t give you anxiety!

Find the Departure Board

When in doubt, look up. Major stations will have a large electronic departures board (“Départs,” “Partenze,” or “Abfahrt” depending on the country) listing upcoming trains by time, destination, and platform number (Gleis/Binario/Voie). Match your train number—not just the city name—to make sure you’re headed to the right place.

Know the Class and Car Number

If you’ve booked a specific seat, your ticket will show a car (wagon) and seat number. Platforms often have diagrams showing where each car will stop—so you can wait in the right spot and avoid a last-minute sprint. First class is usually marked as “1” and second class as “2” on the doors.

Validate Your Ticket (If Required)

For regional trains in countries like Italy, France, or Germany, you’ll often need to validate your paper ticket before boarding using a small machine near the platform. Look for yellow or green boxes and insert your ticket until you hear the stamp. (If you bought a digital or app-based ticket, no need.)

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask

Train stations are full of friendly staff and fellow travelers—don’t hesitate to ask for help. In bigger stations, information desks often speak English, and train conductors are used to helping tourists.

What to Expect Onboard

One of the best things about traveling Europe by train? The journey itself. Whether you’re riding a sleek high-speed train, a cozy sleeper, or a slow scenic route through the Alps, here’s what to expect once you’re onboard.

Luggage, Comfort & Classes

Forget the tiny carry-on limits and baggage fees of flying—on European trains, luggage is refreshingly low-stress. Most stations don’t even check bags. Just bring what you can carry and stash it in overhead racks, luggage compartments at the end of the car, or under your seat.

Comfort levels vary by class:

• 2nd class: Totally comfy for most travelers—think airline economy but with more legroom, big windows, and bigger tables.
• 1st class: Quieter, roomier, often with bonus perks like complimentary snacks, power outlets, or at-seat service.

On sleeper trains, comfort depends on what you book:

• Reclining seat: Fine for short trips, but not ideal overnight.
• Couchette: Bunk-style beds (usually 4–6 people per compartment).
• Private sleeper: Full beds, sometimes with en-suite bathrooms—a splurge, but worth it if you want rest and privacy.

WiFi, Bathrooms, and Amenities

WiFi is hit or miss—many newer trains (especially in France, Germany, and the UK) offer it, but coverage can drop in tunnels or rural areas. If you’re planning to work or stream, download what you need before boarding.

Bathrooms are generally available in every car, usually at one or both ends. They range from airplane-style to surprisingly spacious and clean.

Food Options: Café Cars vs. BYO Picnic

Longer train journeys often include a café car or snack cart offering sandwiches, coffee, wine, and light meals. On the Eurostar, there’s even an at-seat bistro menu in 1st class.

But honestly? My favorite move is packing a little picnic before I board—local cheese, bread, fruit, and a chocolate bar. It’s cheaper, usually tastier, and a whole lot more fun.

Just don’t forget to grab water at the station—not all trains have fountains or sell drinks.

Getting Off at the Right Stop

One of the trickiest parts of train travel—especially if you’re tired or distracted—is making sure you actually get off at the right stop. Not all trains announce stations clearly, and on smaller or older lines, there might not be digital displays at all.

Here’s how to make sure you don’t miss your stop:

• Download offline Google Maps before your journey so you can follow along with your location even without signal or WiFi.
• Set an alarm on your phone 10–15 minutes before your scheduled arrival time—especially helpful if you’re planning to nap.
• Pay attention to station signage outside the window or in the aisles. It often changes quickly, so don’t assume you have lots of time once the train stops.
• If your train has a digital display or audio announcements, keep an eye (or ear) out for your stop. These are more common on high-speed or intercity trains.
• Don’t be afraid to ask—train attendants or fellow passengers are usually happy to confirm which station is next.

The Joy of the Journey

This might sound cheesy, but some of my most magical Europe memories come from just looking out the window—watching vineyards blur past in France, or catching a misty sunrise over the Austrian Alps.

Whether you’re napping, journaling, or watching sheep go by, give yourself permission to slow down. After all, that’s the heart of train travel in Europe—the journey matters just as much as the destination.

Train Travel Tips & Mistakes to Avoid

Even if you’ve taken trains before, Europe’s rail system has its quirks—and missing one small detail can mean a big headache. After countless journeys (and a few missteps of my own), here are the top tips and mistakes to avoid when traveling Europe by train.

Always Validate Regional Tickets

If you’re using a paper ticket on regional trains (especially in countries like Italy, Austria, or Germany), don’t forget to validate it at the little machines near the platform before boarding. Skipping this can lead to a fine—even if your ticket is legit.

Download Your Passes & Routes Offline

WiFi isn’t always reliable at train stations or onboard, and mobile service can get patchy in the countryside. Before you go:

• Download your Rail Planner app routes offline
• Save your Eurail pass and reservations to your phone
• Screenshot key train times or QR codes, just in case

This has saved me more than once when rushing through a station with no signal.

Leave Buffer Time for Connections

Trains in Europe are usually punctual—but not always. A tight 6-minute transfer might work in Switzerland, but in France or Italy, it’s a gamble. Try to leave at least 15–20 minutes between trains when planning your route, especially if you’re new to navigating unfamiliar stations.

And if you do miss your connection? Don’t panic. Head to the ticket counter or info desk—they’ll often rebook you for free if it was a through-ticket or Eurail journey.

Keep Essentials in a Daypack

Your big backpack or suitcase might be tucked away at the end of the carriage—so keep a small daypack with you at your seat. Inside, pack:

• Passport + rail pass
• Snacks and water
• Charger or power bank
• Entertainment (book, journal, downloaded shows)
• Layers (trains can run hot or cold)

This is especially important on overnight trains or long-haul journeys. You don’t want to be scrambling for your toothbrush at 11 p.m. in a shared sleeper.

FAQ: How to Travel Europe by Train

Final Thoughts: Why Train Travel Is the Best Way to See Europe

Whether you’re zipping between capitals on high-speed trains or watching the Alps roll by from a window seat, train travel in Europe is more than just transportation—it’s part of the journey.

Over five years of living in the UK (and countless two-week European rail adventures later), I can confidently say there’s nothing quite like the freedom of hopping on a train and watching the world shift outside your window. No airport security lines. No budget airline baggage drama. Just smooth, scenic, spontaneous travel.

So whether you go with a Eurail itinerary or prefer to book tickets as you go, the tracks are calling.

Your European adventure starts at the station.