Ultimate Guide to Cheap Train Travel in Europe with iBestTravel
Train travel is undoubtedly the most romantic way to explore Europe. You can sit back and soak up the continent’s most beautiful sights as they zip past, from the towering snow-cloaked mountains of Germany to the glittering fjords of Norway. Moreover, the sparkling coasts of Italy and vine-carpeted fields of France provide a breathtaking backdrop as you journey through these picturesque landscapes. This guide offers you the ultimate travel hacks for finding cheap train tickets across Europe this summer, enabling you to embrace slow travel while minimizing your carbon footprint.
- Buy European Rail Passes
Purchasing relevant rail passes can significantly cut costs when travelling by train. Consider buying an Interrail pass or a Eurail pass, which allows unlimited travel across most of Europe from as little as €35 per day for adults, €31 for seniors, or €26 for young people under 28. Children under 12 travel for free when accompanied by an adult pass holder. A rail pass provides much more flexibility than a series of advance-purchase tickets, which can be costly and non-refundable. However, there may be reservation fees for some trains, particularly in France and Italy.
2. Buy Train Tickets in Advance
Train tickets are typically released in price sections, with the cheapest fares available as soon as they’re released. In the UK, tickets are available approximately 12 weeks prior to the departure dates. Setting up alerts with various ticket-purchasing apps can be beneficial, as it allows you to book immediately when fares are lowest.
3. Remember to Validate Your Train Ticket
In many European train stations, there may not be entry barriers, so it is crucial to validate your ticket via a machine. Ticket inspectors often carry out spot checks, and failing to validate your ticket can result in fines. Familiarizing yourself with validation rules for your specific route is essential to avoid potential penalties.
4. Use Train Travel Apps
Various train travel apps can help you discover the best routes and cheapest prices. Omio, for instance, compares prices across different transport modes in Europe, while Trainline offers excellent options for travelling around the UK and Europe. Booking directly with relevant operators often entails no booking fees and allows you to choose your seat from a seat map, enhancing your travel experience.
5. Track Train Fares to Find the Best Prices
Monitoring train fares on direct websites can help you find the best prices for each leg of your journey. Most European long-distance train fares have dynamic pricing similar to airfares, meaning booking ahead and avoiding busy periods typically leads to lower prices.
6. Be Flexible with Your Journeys
Maintaining flexibility in your travel days can yield rewards in the form of cheaper tickets and better availability. Consider looking for prices across multiple days to secure the best deal for your trip.
7. Avoid Paying Extra for Seat Reservations
Many train tickets come with an allocated seat reservation; therefore, it’s essential to ensure that you understand whether seat numbers are included when purchasing tickets. Avoid unnecessary extra costs, especially when travelling on sleeper trains or international journeys, as these often require separate seat reservations.
8. Book Overnight Trains for Lower Prices
Traveling on an overnight train can significantly reduce your costs while also saving on one night’s accommodation. It’s advisable to consider investing a bit more for a comfortable seat or bed, allowing you to arrive well-rested at your next destination. Certain overnight trains offer amenities such as dining cars and shower rooms, providing clean and comfortable options for budget-conscious travelers.
