So you’re thinking about travelling around Europe on an InterRail Pass. But what exactly should you expect? And why choose a pass anyway? Read on to find out more…
When you travel across Europe by rail getting there is part of the fun. Whether you want to experience the culture and lifestyle of one country, or to hop from one to the other – there’s really no better way to explore the continent.
European train travel is unrecognisable from what we know in the UK. Many trains can now reach speeds approaching 200mph. While air-conditioning, ample legroom and onboard restaurants often come as standard.
European trains run from city centre to city centre – not to some windblown airport on the outskirts. So you can wave goodbye to expensive transfers. And while you’re at it, hours wasted at check-in and the luggage carousel too.
European trains can take you across glorious mountain passes, along dramatic coastlines, through picture-book villages and into beautiful cities. They run through some of the most stunning landscape on the continent. You don’t see any of that when you go by plane.
Here in the UK, train travel can be very expensive. But many European countries, including France, heavily subsidise their rail networks. Which means affordable rail travel on modern and comfortable trains often over long distances.
Take the flexibility of a rail pass. Add Europe’s rich network of railways and relaxed border controls. And you’ve got yourself a recipe for adventure for travellers of all ages.
InterRailing is no longer the preserve of students. Now anyone, under or over the age of 26 can buy a pass. There are passes for children if you want to take the family. Passes for seniors looking to make the most of their retirement. And even first class passes if you want to do it all in a little luxury.
InterRail Passes also entitle you to discounts on other forms of travel, like ferry trips and buses. And you can get money off things like entry to museums and attractions. Passes make budgeting for your trip easier too: you’ll know exactly what you need to spend on your pass before you set off.
