What's the difference between rail Europe and Eurail?


What's the difference between rail Europe and Eurail? Eurail is the name of the consortium that works with all the national rail companies to create the Eurail train pass. Rail Europe is an official reseller of the tickets and passes that Eurail creates. Interrail is the same pass but for Europeans only; Eurail/Rail Europe is for non-Europeans.


What is the most reliable site to buy train tickets in Europe?

The main contenders are Omio, Rail Europe and Trainline. Those three are all legitimate companies, and established ticket resellers for European train tickets. (They're official partners of the European national train companies.) And they all put you on the same trains!


Do Eurail trains have assigned seats?

Seat reservations are not included in your Eurail Pass, but for a fee they guarantee you a comfy seat on busy routes across Europe. On most high-speed trains and all night trains, seat reservations are mandatory. Find out more here. First things first – choose which Pass you're going to travel Europe with.


How do I use my Eurail Pass on rail Europe?

Before you start your trip, you need to activate your Pass so it's ready for travel. You'll need your passport or ID that you're traveling with, and you'll need to know which date you're taking your first train. Enter your passport or ID number.


Does Eurail include Paris to London?

Travel from London to Paris and discover up to 33 European countries. The Eurail Global Pass is our most popular rail pass, and the perfect way to see more of Europe. Gives you access to this train route and countless more!


How many bags can you take on Eurail?

Passengers with an adult ticket can take a maximum of two bags (up to 85cm long) including rucksacks, suitcases or ski equipment and one small item of hand luggage. Child passengers (4-11 year olds) can travel with a maximum of one bag (up to 85cm long) and one piece of hand luggage.


Do you have to pay for luggage on Eurail?

On all trains covered by Interrail/Eurail: No, just as long as you can carry it. Be aware stowing away large suitcases on busy trains can be a bit difficult, but there often are luggage racks. There are some exceptions on “low-cost” trains, that I know: Ouigo (France & Spain) and Avlo (Spain).


Can Americans use rail Europe?

In general, yes, but there are some exceptions and a few rules to keep in mind. First, be mindful that some trains (such as high speed, scenic, and night trains) require rail pass holders to purchase reservations at an additional cost.


Can a US citizen use Eurail Pass?

A Eurail Pass can only be used by non-European citizens or non-European residents.


Does Eurail include subway?

No. City metros/subways/trams/buses are not part of the pass network.


Is Eurail the best way to travel Europe?

If you know your Europe train itinerary already The first one is super accurate if you have an idea of the trains you will be taking: A Eurail Pass is worth it if the cost of the pass plus the cost of seat reservations is less than the cost of the point-to-point train tickets if you bought them outright.


Can you sit anywhere with Eurail?

You can hop on and off most trains as you please with your Eurail Pass, but some trains ask you to buy an additional seat reservation before you can jump aboard.


Is first class worth it on Eurail?

First class also has wider seats and aisles, and is more likely to have amenities such as air-conditioning and power outlets (though outlets are still rare on Europe's trains, in any class). While first class is less conducive to conversation, it's more conducive to napping.


Is food included in Eurail Pass?

A 1st class Eurail Pass is more expensive than a 2nd class Eurail Pass, but it also gives you access to seats with more space and extras that can even include food and beverages. Check out our complete overview of differences between 1st and 2nd class to find out everything you need to know.


Why are Eurail seat reservations so expensive?

Because some trains are more expensive than others, or historically have received less income from Eurail/Interrail to cover the large amount of passholders making use of those trains (Spain and France mainly). Reservations are usually a fraction of the cost of regular 1st class tickets, with some exceptions.


What does Eurail not cover?

Eurail passes do not cover local transport like trams or metros, only intercity trains. Rail Europe is another company that offers similar European train passes.