Train Travel in Europe

When traveling in Europe, the most convenient and reliable mode of transportation is train. Majority of the cities in Europe accessible by train and most cities have at least one train station located in walking distance from city center. Trains usually offer decent free unlimited WiFi. Below is my basic guide for train travel in Europe first time visitors.

Train Tickets

My suggestion here is to get tickets in advance if you know your itinerary. Check non- stop tickets first. Often those are the fastest and the cheapest ticket. Buy tickets online using official train tickets sites, not re-sellers.

Here is couple of examples:

Italy

Italy train tickets

When in Italy (The things I wish I knew before my Italy trip)

Austria

Austria train tickets

Read More…

One day in Vienna

Spain

Spain train tickets

Czech Republic

Czech Republic train tickets.

Majority of European cities have several train stations. When booking the tickets online you will need to know the exact name of your arrival and departure train stations.

Download the apps.

Apps have real time schedule and deals for local attractions.

Arrival to Train station

Plan to Arrive to the train station at least 15 – 20 minutes prior to your train departure time. You will need the time to find the platform and get familiar with the train station. Some train stations are fairly large. For example, Wien Hauptbahnhof (Vienna Central train station) has 12 platforms and several levels.

Seat assignment

Some trains have seats assignments, others just have a car number. If there’s no seat assignment on your ticket, you can use any seat in the car.

In the train

Just like anywhere else, exercise caution, always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your luggage.

Luggage

Majority of the cars have overhead l racks and large luggage rack at the end of the car. While I never had problems with storing luggage at the end of the car, I would recommend to keep you luggage in overhead racks or between the seats and using small

You cannot check in the luggage when traveling by train and there’s no luggage fee.

Destination

Prepare to exit the train in advance. Couple of minutes before train arrival to the station people will start lining up for the exit. Speed trains stops are very short, just enough time for passengers to get out and in the train. In Girona, Spain train stops only for 2 minutes.

Food

Majority of trains have food carts where you can get coffee and sometimes order meals. Often there is a mobile food cart service that offer team, coffee, snacks and sandwiches.

Final thoughts

Travel by train in Europe is very convenient, safe and fast. Sometimes it’s even faster than airplanes. So, research your destination online prior to your trip and if the train line is available book your train ticket online.

Train Travel in Europe – What to expect and how to plan train trip.