Travel Europe by train to cover longer distances. And experience all this spectacular continent has to offer.
Departure boards are simple to understand in any language. And you will be surprised how much you can accomplish at a ticket window.
See below for everything you need to know to travel Europe by train.
European Train System
The train system in Europe is exceptionally well organized. It makes international travel through Europe amazingly simple. Follow these easy european travel tips on train transportation to make your experience a secure and an enjoyable one.
Many airports in Europe are on train lines with trains going into major cities every few minutes. Larger cities usually have more than one train station, such as in Paris and London. Check the name to make sure you are at the right station.
Train stations are
normally located near the town center. And most are designed to help
travelers learn how to get around quickly. You will even find bike
rentals in many train stations as well. Public transportation, whether
by train or bus, is extremely convenient in Europe. Most locals have no
need of owning a car.
Get useful information on getting around in Europe and staying safe. Learn the best method for exchanging currency, withdrawing money, and packing for European travel.
Southern Europe is easily traveled by train and public transit. In more remote areas, especially in Northern Europe, a car may be necessary. Especially when traveling by train is much too far from your destination. Certain areas and towns are only accessible by car. And that means less tourists and crowds.
Italy is made up of 20 regions. These include the cooler areas of the Po Valley in the north to the sultry Mediterranean spots of Sicily and Calabria of the south.
The climate in Italy is a dream come true for travelers and retirees alike. Sunlight graces most parts of the country nearly 300 days a year. Winters are mild and summers are temperate, making the decision to live or retire in Italy a healthy one.
Travel by European Rail Pass
A
European rail pass is one of the best ways to travel through Europe.
They can be a great value if you know your options. Especially since
Europe is so condensed and easily traveled by train. Find out how a
European Rail Pass works and how it can best help you.
Ticket Windows
Train
station ticket windows will handle your reservations, tickets, and
sleeping car needs. Departures times and destinations for all trains
are visibly listed on a board. Make sure to validate your rail pass
here when you travel Europe by train. This is easily done with your
passport. Be aware that many faster trains as well as sleeping trains
require a reservation.
Departure Boards
The
constantly changing Departure Boards provide up-to-date schedules and
are pretty much the same at every train station. You won’t need to
learn a new language to understand them. The information is
self-explanatory and provides Departure times, Destination, Track, and
if your train is On Time.
Finding Information in Train Stations
For
the longer-traveling trains, platforms provide information on where the
trains are headed. You will also see which cars are first or second
class and where you can eat or drink something. In order to travel
Europe by train successfully and with minimal confusion, make sure to
locate your train on the platform and its destination before boarding.
Finding the Best Seats When Traveling by Train
Reservation
seats are easily visible inside. Search for an empty compartment with
no reservations posted for a more private ride when you travel Europe by
train. All trains are clearly marked for First and Second Class. And
many trains have open seating as in a bus, although some still have the
traditional compartments we so often see in movies.
Express Trains vs. Local Trains
Train
stations at bigger cities are typically crowded. Clearly posted
departure times and platform numbers make transferring trains easy to
follow. Use the express trains for traveling from large city to large
city. Use local trains for travel to and from the smaller cities.
These are just as easy to find and use. You will be amazed at how
simply you can get from city to city...and country to country.
Cheap Travel Abroad
Use
simple strategies for traveling affordably like staying at hostels or
bed and breakfast inns. They are cheaper and are common in Europe and
South America. And take advantage of public transportation instead of
taking a taxi. Get more tips here.
Keep international travel safety in mind at all times. If you travel Europe by train, keep an eye on your travel bag.
Petty thieves are notorious for stealing bags from unsuspecting tourists. Attach your travel bag to a rail.
Wearing a Money Belt
Pickpocketing is alive and well in Europe. Take this European travel tip seriously. These petty thieves target American tourists. They are good at taking what is in your purses and fanny packs in the blink of an eye.
These scam artists come in many forms including mothers and small children who are fantastic at pick-pocketing. One distracts you while another takes your wallet. Even when you travel Europe by train.
Avoid ruining your vacation. Wear a money belt. This is one of the most important European travel tips for keeping thieves from stealing your money and documents.
Sightseeing When Traveling Europe by Train
When sightseeing between hotels, leave your bags at the train station. Most stations have coin-operated lockers that are safe and simple to use. There is no need to lug around your travel bag.
Travel to Different Countries in Europe by Train
For longer distances consider traveling Europe by night train. They come with clean linen and an attendent who monitors who comes and goes. The cost is about half the cost of a night in a hotel. That way you can rest and be ready for your new destination upon arrival. Keep in mind that sleeping cars do require reservations.
Backpacking is an affordable way to make your own memories. Be open and flexible. Seasoned travelers who backpack through Europe on a regular basis know this well. Sometimes destination opportunities present themselves and you must be willing to take them.
Things to do in Europe...for Free
Europe is not just for those with a hefty wallet. Enjoy spectacular sights for pennies on the dollar with these budget travel tips. Most for free. From a stunning view of Paris to free concerts in Amsterdam.
Italian Festivals are as varied as the landscape. Watch passionate combatants dressed in costume battle it out in Florence. Or experience the moving religious holidays of Pasqua in Sicily. Choose which dates you want to be a part of.
Public
Holidays in Italy are taken very seriously. They are enthusiastically
celebrated throughout. Be aware there will be closings in many areas.
Check specific dates here before traveling to Italy.
Traveling Europe by train is a simple and affordable way to get to know this amazing continent. Learn all the ins and outs to get to your destination quickly and safely by following the above tips.
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