The European train system is generally fantastic and makes it convenient and easy to get around. Certainly for travel between big cities it is the best way to travel – no need to spend hours getting to the airport and then fighting security. Even on trains such as the Eurostar through the chunnel where there is security it takes you city center to city center and security is less onerous than flying. Be aware that trains are not cheap and European discount airlines may be much better deals – especially for longer flights.
Booking
For point to point tickets try trainline.com which gets you to most train options for tickets. There are individual country system websites as well. The Deutsche Bahn has a great website and phone app that works in multiple countries for schedules. In general it’s better to book all trains ahead of time if possible. This isn’t alway something you can do, however the prices are typically better if you can.
Eurail pass
Consider a eurail pass if you are going to do a lot of travel by train. Be aware that there are restrictions so check that your train is available. Most are but in some cases they will require a paid reservation. All high speed (Eurostar, TGV, etc) require a reservation and sell out – book in advance. You can get a single country or a few counties and tailor your pass to your days of travel and locations. You can get a first class or second class pass – we think second class is generally fine.
Finding your way
This can be a bit daunting at first but you will get the hang of it. First find your platform (generally posted 15 minutes before). Then verify the train is going where you need it to (you may need to ask). Finally on longer trips cars may split off – make sure your carriage is going to the right place (you may need to ask). Be sure and get to the station early enough – the Eurostar for example wants you there at least 45 minutes before departure.
Validation
Tickets need to be activated – unless printed at home or stored on your phone. This is a weird concept. You bought your ticket/collected your ticket from a kiosk or window and you think you’re ready to ride. You’re not. You must find a machine to stamp your ticket. If you don’t know where it is, ask. You cannot get on a train without an activated ticket in most countries – the ticket agents on the train are not accommodating to this. Your eurail pass will also need activation at a ticket window the first time you use it. Plan your time accordingly at the station.
Passport Checks
Baggage
Baggage check is available at many of the larger stations. On the train large bags may go near the door – smaller bags (the kind you will have – you clever traveller) can go in the bins above your seat where they are safer.
Sleeper Trains
Disembarking
Trains will stop for various length of time depending if you’re exiting at a small town, big city, or train terminal. Be prepared. If you’re getting off at a small town (for instance you’re in Belgium and getting off in Bruges), you should anticipate your stop (it may only stop for 5 minutes or less) and be ready, queuing up with your luggage as the train is slowing down. The doors may or may not open automatically – this is important to know! You may have to hit a button on the side of the door to get it to open. First, make sure you’re on the right side of the train/at the right door to open it. Push the button once the train stops (usually the button flashes green). This seems silly, but if you do not