Easy European Rail Travel

For most people, rail travel in Europe brings to mind a romantic travel experience. But, some travelers are often uneasy about the system and the procedures that might be involved. In fact, the European rail system is an easy, fast, and relaxing way to get around the continent. If you would like to travel the way the locals do and get a feel for the beautiful and scenic countryside or just save some time and money on an overnight train, rail travel may be for you. Certainly this is an experience that should not be missed. Understanding the way the rail system works and being prepared, is important to eliminate the stress of traveling. These pointers will help you better understand and prepare for your European rail adventure.

Arrive early To begin with, know which particular rail station you are leaving from (many European cities have more than one) and arrive with plenty of extra time before your scheduled departure. Nothing will add to your stress more than being pressed for time or being at the wrong station. Extra time allows you to get your bearings and then proceed. Arrive at least thirty minutes early or even a little earlier if you have a pass to validate.

Finding your departure track When you arrive at the station you will more than likely see a myriad of people coming and going from the platforms. Take a deep breath and go to one of the departure boards located throughout the station. Look for the track or platform number your train will depart from. It is easiest if you look for your train number since some trains may have multiple stops and might not specifically state your destination.

Validate Rail passes must be validated on or before the first day of use. You must do this before boarding the train. Simply take your pass to the ticket office and have it validated. Either you or the conductor on the train can fill in the date of travel in the appropriate spot. Another way to travel is with a regular ticket. Again you must validate it by inserting it into the validating machines located as you proceed to your track. Watch other travelers as they approach the machines and you will see how this works.

Finding your train car As you make your way down to the track, look for the display board that shows the location of each car on your train. This will help you position yourself on the platform close to where your train car will stop. Once the train pulls in, watch for your car. Cars are marked with a 1 or 2 for first or second class and with car numbers. If you have a reservation, you will have a ticket marked with a class, car number and seat to help you find where you need to be. If you are traveling on a rail pass, simply board a car in your class and look for an available seat. To avoid not having a seat at all, and having to stand near the bathrooms or luggage for the entire trip, it is advisable to make a reservation. Don't be afraid to ask the station staff on the platform if you have any questions. They can be very helpful in pointing you in the right direction.

Luggage The best thing to remember when traveling by train to is pack only what you can handle yourself. There are often stairs you may have to go up or down and dragging too much luggage with you, will not make you a happy traveler! Many trains will have special racks for baggage on the ends of the individual train cars. You may also store luggage under your seat and in the rack over your seat. Most train stations in Europe will have baggage lockers, or luggage rooms to store your bags. Some however will not, so be prepared to carry your luggage with you just in case. Be sure to keep a watchful eye on your luggage and keep valuables with you at all times. This will insure a safe and relaxing trip.

Have a safe trip!