What's in this guide?
- What is a Eurail Pass?
- Where can I travel in Europe with a Eurail Pass?
- Why take the train in Europe?
- Types of Eurail Pass
- How do I use a Eurail Pass?
- Is it worth buying a Eurail Pass vs individual tickets?
- Travel inspiration
- Eurail discounts
- Where to go next in Europe
- Popular train journeys in Europe
- Train companies that accept Eurail
- Should I get a First Class or Second Class Eurail Pass?
- FAQs
What is a Eurail Pass?
A Eurail Pass is a single train Pass that lets you travel across 33 European countries. With a Eurail Pass, you can travel as much as you want on participating European train networks for a set amount of travel days.
If you’re planning a trip to Europe, traveling by train with a Eurail pass is an easy, budget-friendly* and sustainable way to travel. Whether you want to explore a diverse variety of European cultures, or travel around a single country and soak up the local ambience, Eurail makes the trip a whole lot simpler!
If you’re an American or Canadian citizen, you can use a Eurail Pass. If you're a European citizen or a non-European who is an official legal resident of a European country, you can use an Interrail Pass instead.
*When comparing price of one pass vs. price of various individual train tickets.
Where can I travel in Europe with a Eurail Pass?
Planning a trip to Europe, but still not sure where you can go with your Eurail Pass? Have a look at our Eurail map below – it shows the most popular Eurail routes and how long it takes to travel between one city and another. Click on the cities you want to visit and start planning your next train trip - and don't forget to check out our European packing list while you're planning!
Pass holders can travel to 33 European countries with a Global Pass. Here’s a full list of the countries included with the Eurail Pass:
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Why should I take the train in Europe?
Perhaps rail transport isn’t what you’re used to. But on your trip to Europe, why not jump out of your comfort zone and take the train? If you’re not convinced, let us give you a few reasons why the train rocks:
- Taking the train can be quicker than flying – there’s usually no security checks to worry about, so you can just turn up and get on with your journey
- The train is a greener travel choice, emitting 5 x less CO2 than planes! *
- Slow travel is cool - take a moment to disconnect and relax
- There’s more to see from a train window than a plane window - watch the European countryside roll by!
* Emission calculation based on the EEA Transport and Environment Report 2021, published June 2022 (page 38, diagram 4.3)
Which types of Eurail Passes are available?
There are two types of Eurail Passes available, the Global Pass and the One Country Pass. Keep reading for more details.
Eurail Global Pass
What is the Eurail Global Pass?
With the Eurail Global Pass, you can enjoy unlimited travel across 33 European countries by train and ferry, including Italy, France, Germany and Switzerland.
What are the different types of the Eurail Global Pass?
There are two types of Eurail Global Passes:
- Continuous: Travel each day during the entire validity of your Pass (15 days, 22 days, 1 month, 2 months or 3 months).
- Flexi: Travel for a maximum number of days within your travel period. The options are 4, 5 or 7 days within 1 month, and 10 or 15 days within 2 months.
For example, say you have a Flexi Global Pass valid for travel on 7 days within 1 month. You can only choose 7 days of those 30 days (1 month) to travel by train. On one of your travel days, you can take as many trains as you like.
How much does the Eurail Global Pass cost?
|
Age group |
Passes start from* |
|
Youth (12 – 27) |
$231.00 (€212.00) |
|
Adult (28 – 59) |
$308.00 (€283.00) |
|
Senior (60+) |
$278.00 (€255.00) |
*Prices correct as of November 2024
What else do I need to know about the Eurail Global Pass?
- You can choose seats in either First or Second Class.
- Depending on the country you visit, you can get free travel on local public transport, discounts in hotels and restaurants and free visits to museums.
Eurail One Country Pass
What is the Eurail One Country Pass?
The Eurail One Country Pass is the perfect option for you if you want to make the most of one European country during your vacation.
- You can travel between 3 to 8 days by train within 1 month. On each of these days, you can take as many trains as you like. The price of the ticket varies based on these criteria and the country you want to visit.
- You can travel by ferry between Italy and Greece.
- You can choose seats in either First or Second Class.
- Depending on the country you visit, you can get free travel on public transport, discounts in hotels and restaurants and free visits to museums.
Can I combine 2 One Country Passes?
If you want to travel to one or two countries but don’t need to buy the Global Pass, you can combine two One Country Passes.
There are also 2 special regions each covered by a singular One Country Pass - perfect if you want to explore more fabulous destinations without spending more on travel:
- Benelux Pass – covers Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg
- Scandinavia Pass – covers Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden.
If you’re going to visit three or more countries, we recommend you get the Global Pass.
How much does the Eurail One Country Pass cost?
Depending on your age group, the most popular One Country Passes cost:
|
Country |
Passes start from* |
|
Italy |
$157.00 (€144.00) |
|
France |
$83.00 (€87.00) |
|
Spain |
$182.00 (€167.00) |
|
Benelux |
$130.00 (€119.00) |
|
Portugal |
$99.00 (€91.00) |
|
Sweden |
$182.00 (€167.00) |
* Prices correct as of November 2024
How do I use a Eurail Pass?
If you’ve bought your Eurail Pass but you’re unsure how to use it – don’t worry, we’re here to help!
- First, you need to download the official Eurail Rail Planner app on your phone.
- Next, you’ll need to add your Pass to the app by going to My Pass and entering your last name and Pass Number – psst, you’ll find this in your order confirmation email.
- Then, you need to plan your trip. In the app, you can create a new trip or choose an existing one.
- Before your trip, you’ll need to activate your Pass. To activate, you’ll need to enter your passport or ID number and choose a start date for your trip.
- Finally, it’s time to start your adventure! When asked by an inspector, simply show your ticket in the app. To find it, go to My Pass and tap Show Ticket.
Is it worth buying a Eurail Pass?
Whether you should buy a Eurail Pass really depends on your travel plans.
If you want to enjoy unlimited and flexible travel across one or more countries, and your itinerary includes plenty of train travel, then a Eurail Pass is certainly the best option for you.
On the other hand, if you’re happy with a few short train rides or your dates are fixed, you may find it cheaper to buy point-to-point tickets in advance. Many European train companies’ tickets are often cheaper the earlier you book. If you have a fixed itinerary or don’t need much flexibility, point-to-point tickets might be a more budget-friendly option.
It’s also worth factoring the cost of seat reservations into your calculations. For example, on Eurostar trains to/from London, Eurail Passholders must pay a €30 seat reservation fee in Eurostar Standard Class (around $32), or €38 for a seat in Eurostar Plus (around $41; First Class Passholders only). Eurostar’s cheapest tickets start from $52** if you book in advance. If you’re not planning more than a couple trips by train, it could be cheaper to book individual tickets instead of using a Pass.
Plus, when you buy a Eurail Pass with Trainline, your Pass is 100% refundable within 17 months of the purchase date so long as you haven’t used any travel days – so there’s even more flexibility!
** $52 per person one way based on a mandatory return trip in Eurostar Standard between London and Brussels-Midi/Zuid, Paris, Amsterdam, Rotterdam or Lille, for travel between 10/12/2024 and 12/02/2025. Subject to availability. Availability varies according to dates and times. Blackout dates may apply. The earlier you book, the more availability. Correct as at 22/10/2024.
In need of some inspiration?
Eager to travel with a Eurail Pass but not sure how to start planning your trip? Why not read through some of our European train itineraries for inspiration:
Available discounts with Eurail
Where should I travel in Europe with the Eurail Pass?
When traveling by train, you’ll find Europe is actually quite small. You can whizz across countries and between city centers in a few hours. Don't forget to check out our guide to the best things to bring on a train to make the most of your trip.
In Europe, you can wake up by the Mediterranean seaside and eat lunch in a cool mountain range. To help inspire your European adventure, we’ve compiled a guide to some of the countries in Europe you can travel around by train.
United Kingdom
Whether you decide to visit England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you’ll still find an intrinsic bond which holds the United Kingdom together. There’s much more to see than just the iconic landmarks of London. Traveling by train in the UK opens up a world of possibilities. Further afield, you can wander along coastal pathways and step back in time with a visit to one of the many historic castles and stately homes.
Find out more about trains in Britain.
Popular destinations
Main train stations
Main airport transfers
France
There are few European countries that can match the elegance, gastronomy and cultural history of France. Travel to France and immerse yourself in the café culture, iconic landmarks and indulgent cuisine.
In France, SNCF trains make it easy to travel around. Once you’ve arrived, you can enjoy a freshly baked croissant while wandering the cobbled streets and famous sites of Paris, then hop over to Bordeaux for a refreshing glass or two of vin rouge. Travel to the north and you’ll find rocky, windswept coastlines. Travel to the south and you’ll find the sun-baked Mediterranean shores of Nice. If you’re looking for cooler climates, head to the snow-capped Alpine region to the east.
Find out more about trains in France.
Popular destinations
Main train stations
Main airport transfers
Italy
With a long and varied history, Italy is home to some of the world’s finest artwork and cuisine. When traveling to Europe, you need to live la dolce vita. Visit the iconic cities of Rome, Florence and Milan to see the artworks of Europe’s Renaissance masters – the Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo’s David, and da Vinci’s The Last Supper. Beyond the cities, Italy’s varied landscape is a must-see, from the icy reaches of the Alps to the glistening azure ocean in the south.
Find out more about trains in Italy.
Popular destinations
Main train stations
Main airport transfers
Spain
Boasting sun-soaked shores, vibrant cities and snow-capped mountains, Spain has always been a magnet for tourists. In Spain, it’s the small things that will charm you the most, from the sweep of a flamenco dancer to the clink of cerveza glasses. In no time, Renfe trains will whisk you from the bustling Las Ramblas in Barcelona to some of the best restaurants in the world in San Sebastián. Dotted throughout the country, you’ll find signs of Spain’s extraordinary history, including ancient castles, Roman amphitheatre ruins and exquisite examples of Islamic architecture. If you want something more modern, you'll also find filming locations for one of Wes Anderson's movies near Madrid.
Find out more about trains in Spain.
Popular destinations
Main train stations
Airport transfers
Germany
Home to trendy cities, emerald forests and the odd fairy tale castle, Germany is an obvious choice for your trip. With Deutsche Bahn, you can travel around the country that gave us Albert Einstein and Beethoven. No trip is complete without a visit to capital city Berlin, with its urban artwork, lively nightlife and iconic landmarks. Further afield, Frankfurt and Cologne are full of fascinating museums, period architecture and unique gastronomy. We can’t talk about Germany without mentioning Oktoberfest, which hosts more than six million people dressed in lederhosen each year.
Find out more about trains in Germany.
Popular destinations
Main train stations
Airport transfers
Belgium
Despite its small size, Belgium has an impressive range of languages and cultural influences, making it an unmissable place to visit. Exploring Belgium with SNCB trains is easy, with the longest train journey in the country clocking in at around two hours. Home to the European Union, Brussels is well worth a visit for all food, art and beer lovers. In the historic port city of Antwerp, you can immerse yourself in Flemish tradition and Renaissance architecture. Then, wander around the Medieval streets and take in the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Belgium’s best-kept secret, Ghent.
Find out more about trains in Belgium.
Popular destinations
Main train stations
The Netherlands
Waiting to be explored, the Netherlands is home to cultural cities and colorful tulip-laden fields. In Amsterdam, you can wander along the canals, pay a poignant visit to Anne Frank House or immerse yourself in the art of Van Gogh. Jump on an NS train to Rotterdam – this city is extremely passionate about football, so sporting fans should make time to catch a match.
Find out more about trains in the Netherlands.
Popular destinations
Main train stations
Switzerland
Located in the heart of Europe, trains in Switzerland offer breath-taking views of mountains, lakes and waterfalls on their journeys. Thanks to SBB trains, Switzerland is well connected by rail, making it easy to see several destinations by train without too much travel time. Not sure where to visit? Go to elegant Geneva, the gateway to Europe from Switzerland, then Bern, home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Find out more about trains in Switzerland.
Popular destinations
Main train stations
Popular train journeys in Europe
If you want to find out more about where your Eurail Pass can take you, here's some of the most popular train journeys in Europe:
Which European train companies accept Eurail Passes?
When planning your trip, you'll find there are lots of train companies operating in each country across Europe. Each train company offers a different service, with different routes, tickets, stations, destinations, onboard classes and services. Many of these train companies accept Eurail Passes - we've listed them below.
Train companies in the UK
In the UK, there are over 25 major train operators, each covering a different region of the country.
Eurostar
If you’re in London and want to get to France, Belgium or the Netherlands with ease and comfort, you can take a Eurostar train. From London St Pancras International, which is the main English hub for international services, you can get from London to Paris in 2 hours, 16 minutes, London to Brussels in 1 hour, 53 minutes and London to Amsterdam in 3 hours, 52 minutes.
Train companies in Italy
In Italy, the main train companies are Trenitalia and Italo.
Train companies in France
In France, the main train company is SNCF, which offers both high-speed and regional train services in France.
Train companies in Spain
In Spain, the main train company is Renfe, which provides different types of high-speed and regional trains.
Train companies in Germany
Thanks to Deutsche Bahn, the national train operator in Germany, you can easily travel from one German city to another. Alternatively, you can travel with Flixtrain, the low-cost train company operating only on some national routes.
Train companies in Switzerland and Austria
Want to travel between Switzerland and Austria by train? You can travel with different train companies, such as ÖBB, SBB or WESTbahn.
WESTbahn
Since 2011, WESTbahn have connected Vienna to Salzburg via Linz. WESTbahn trains are very modern and can reach speeds of up to 124 mph.
Train companies in the rest of Europe
CD
CD (České dráhy) is the national railway company in Czech Republic. All CD trains leave from Prague, the capital city, and connect it to the rest of the country.
CFL
In Luxembourg, CFL (Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Luxembourgeois) is the national railway company and all trains depart from the capital city to the rest of the country.
Should I buy a Eurail Pass for First or Second Class?
When purchasing your Eurail Pass, you’ll notice that you have the option to buy a Pass for either First or Second Class.