Should you buy train tickets in advance Europe?


Should you buy train tickets in advance Europe? Advance purchase (a week to several months in advance) can save you significant money in many countries (most notably Austria, Britain, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Sweden), especially for faster or longer rides.


How far in advance should you book Europe tickets?

According to a study conducted by Expedia, data shows that you want to book at least six months in advance for international travel. The study found you'll save an average of 10% by booking six months in advance instead of two months or less.


What are off peak times for Trainline?

Generally speaking, the Off-Peak window begins after 09:30 and outside of evening commuter hours - 15:30-18:15 - for travel in and out of big cities. Super Off-Peak tickets become available after 10:00.


Is it cheaper to book tickets last minute?

There's no sugarcoating it: Airfare is expensive. And while waiting until the last minute might sound like a good idea, it typically is cheaper to book your flights in advance. We are seeing fewer last-minute deals than in years past, especially when it comes to flights, a Kayak spokesperson tells Travel + Leisure.


Do I need to pre book train tickets in Italy?

Reservations are not necessary on many European trains, however in some countries (particularly France, Italy and Spain), a pass or a ticket does not guarantee a seat, so reservations are highly recommended. We also recommend reservations to guarantee accommodations on a particular train, date, and time.


Is it cheaper to book tickets at night?

No the ticket prices are not cheaper in the middle of the night. You might find that prices go down on Tuesday or Wednesday. But there is no rule that is true all the time. Just search for fares ahead of time and when you find a fare you like purchase it.


Can you buy train tickets last minute in Europe?

Yes, but it does depend on how last minute you plan to travel. If you're buying very last minute, your best option is to order a mobile Pass, which you'll instantly receive in your inbox after purchase. If you don't plan on using trains that require seat reservations, you only need to order a few days before your trip.


How early should you book trains in Europe?

We advise you to start making reservations at least 2 months in advance. Many high-speed and night trains can already be reserved from 3 months in advance, and will get fully booked in that period.


Can I get the next train if I miss mine Trainline?

If your connecting train is with the same Carrier as the delayed train you will be able to travel on the next available train to your destination.


Do Europe train tickets go up in price?

Rail fares vary widely across Europe. As of November 2022, train fares had increased by 3 per cent in the EU over the last five years. Inflation hit some European countries harder, such as the UK and Sweden.


Are train tickets cheaper if you book them in advance?

The earlier you book your tickets, the more likely you are to get the lowest fare available for the dates you want on the routes along your journey. You may book your travel up to 11 months in advance.


How to save money on trains in Europe?

Book train tickets in advance While many of us plan and book flights well before our trip, train travel is often left until the last minute. Like planes, train tickets are released in price sections—the cheapest fares are first, and the most expensive ones can be purchased up to an hour before the train time.


Is it better to purchase your ticket at the station or on the train Why?

Higher fares usually apply when purchasing tickets onboard the train. To secure the best available fare, passengers should purchase tickets prior to boarding the train.


Is it cheaper to pre book train tickets or buy on the day?

Advance purchase tickets are cheaper rail fares which are sold prior to the day of travel, and, in some cases on the day of departure.


What days are train tickets cheaper?

Nationwide Amtrak Discounts Before you start clicking links, make sure to check Amtrak's Weekly Specials, on sale between Tuesday and Friday each week. These are deeply discounted fares (often up to 80% off) that can be for any train in the country. It's a grab bag, but you might get lucky.


Why are UK trains so expensive?

The reasons for this are varied: from the privatisation of the rail industry to the rising cost of infrastructure. The UK does not have fixed rates like other European countries such as France, which can result in flight tickets being cheaper than a regional train journey in the UK.