How to Travel Europe by Train

There is no better way to experience Europe than by train. You glide city-centre to city-centre, watch the landscape roll by, and skip the hassle of airports entirely. Here is how to plan the perfect European rail adventure.

Rail passes vs point-to-point

If you plan to visit many cities, a rail pass offers flexibility and can save money. For just two or three journeys, booking individual tickets in advance is usually cheaper. High-speed lines connect hubs like Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona and Milan in just a few hours.

The best rail routes

The Swiss Alpine routes are the most scenic in the world, while the line along the Italian and French Riviera hugs the Mediterranean. Central Europe makes it easy to hop between Vienna, Prague and Budapest.

Tips for smooth travel

Book high-speed and sleeper trains ahead for the best prices, but keep regional trains flexible. Travel light, arrive just 20 minutes before departure, and download offline timetables. With a little planning, the journey becomes as memorable as the destinations.