Traveling by train across Europe: incredible landscapes, convenient routes, and sleeping accommodations

Long-distance travel is typically associated with air travel, but an interesting journey is also possible by rail. Traveling by train across Europe will spare you from the queues and stress of airports.

Following a swift center-to-center Eurostar trip from London to Brussels, Paris, or Amsterdam, the continent's rail network provides travelers with a plethora of choices. Indeed, one can reach any destination by train - from northern Norway to the Bosphorus in Istanbul, or the southernmost reaches of Spain, according to an article by TheStandard magazine.

Booking

It is emphasized that tourists are attracted by convenient online booking, fast trains, affordable fares, and incredible views, as well as carbon-free travel. At the same time, tourists are advised to book in advance for the widest availability and cheapest tickets. Most services open three to four months before travel, and Eurostar can be booked six to eight months in advance.

However, keep in mind that many popular trains, such as the TGV Lyria trains from Paris to Swiss cities and the Nightjet sleeper trains, sell out much earlier in the peak season. Advance booking will also reduce the cost of many intercity and regional trains for which you cannot reserve seats.

Use travel passes

Travelers are reminded that using Interrail passes can be a good solution to explore Europe as a continent or individual countries. This system offers flexible, unlimited travel for the entire duration of the ticket. It is usually easiest to access via apps on your phone.

However, it should be borne in mind that fares can be cheaper than passes, especially if booked in advance, and some high-speed trains have excessive surcharges. At the same time, Interrail tickets offer tourists an unrivaled sense of freedom and additional bonuses such as free or reduced fares on many ferries, cable cars, museum entrance fees, etc.

Try a night on the rails

Modern night trains in Europe offer travelers a high level of comfort. The new generation of night trains has changed traveling. In particular, trains from Austria, operated by the national railroad (ÖBB), offer modern, comfortable couches and chic compartments, some of which have showers. Newer trains running between Hamburg and Vienna offer innovative private mini-suites - cabins for one - and others will soon follow on other routes.

There are other fantastic sleeper trains all over Europe - try Zurich in Switzerland to Ljubljana in Slovenia for an overnight odyssey through moonlit rivers and snow-capped peaks. Or the Caledonian Sleeper from London Euston to the Scottish Highlands.

Dining Cars

Passengers on trains are also offered a wide choice of menus in the dining cars. In addition to an excellent network of comfortable and accessible trains, Czech Railjet trains offer some of the best dining options in Europe in the well-stocked dining car. Here you can enjoy tenderloin, dumplings, and Czech beer on tap or Bohemian sparkling wine.

Look for bargain prices during happy hours. Polish, Swiss, and Austrian intercity trains, as well as the Spanish Iryo, are also reliable choices for delicious meals on the rails. There is always the option to have a picnic in your seat.

Allow Extra Time

At the same time, delays can occur when traveling by train, so plan for them and allow enough time during your trip. It is emphasized that night trains with complex logistical connections on the route can cause delays.

Tourists are advised to ask the conductors about possible delays to get advice on whether you can take the next train or need a new ticket. Be sure to take out travel insurance just in case. And use the Rail Planner or Omio apps to find connecting trains.

Incredible Views

Traveling by train also gives you the opportunity to enjoy the surrounding scenery. For example, the route from Florence to Rome via Perugia passes a number of mountain towns in Umbria. At the same time, the journey from Barcelona to the French border in Latour de Carol takes three hours through the mountainous Pyrenees.

Traveling down the Moselle River in Germany from Koblenz to Trier is a great excursion into this corner of Europe's most charming wine country. You can also try traveling by rail in Slovenia to enjoy the views of the local Alps, the Soa River, and glimpses of Lake Bled to Nova Gorica on the Italian border.

Pack Light, Heavy on Gadgets

At the same time, tourists are advised not to carry too many heavy items - it is quite inconvenient to carry bulky bags on crowded trains. At the same time, it is advised to make sure you have everything you need to stay connected. Wi-Fi is becoming increasingly common, though often unreliable. Although many trains are equipped with power outlets, a rechargeable battery is useful. It is also recommended to bring noise-canceling headphones, which can also be used as earplugs.

Read the TravelWise article to find out which season is best for your vacation in Europe and which country to choose without spending millions.