Let’s begin.

Search
Generic filters
Exact matches only
Filter by Custom Post Type

FAQ

We use the highest standard of security available on the Internet and ensures that any information which you submit, including your credit card details, will remain completely confidential.

Each Hostel maintains the association’s standards, forming a brand that is trusted by those who stay with us. Customers know that they will find the same levels of quality throughout the network. Each city has only one Famous Hostel and staying at a Famous Hostel guarantees you’ll have a great stay at unbeatable value.

You need to contact the hostel directly using the group booking form.

GO UP

14 Reasons for Train Travel in Europe

14 Reasons for Train Travel in Europe

Train travel in Europe is one of the best ways to get around the continent and we want to show you why. Planning on a backpacking tour, or any type of trip in Europe? Then you’re going to want to read our reasons as to why train travel in Europe is the best!

Europe is one of the world’s most popular destinations for travellers of all ages and backgrounds. People come to explore single (or several) destinations over the course of a few weeks, or a few months. What makes this possible are the vast amount of options you have when it comes to travelling. Busses, discount airlines, trains, and ride shares, are all a few of the many options to choose from, but we want to tell you why train travel is the best option. Read on to see our 14 reasons why we think it can’t be beat!

14 Reasons for Train Travel in Europe

14 Reasons for Train Travel in Europe

1. Comfort

We all know the feeling of getting off a flight. You feel tired, in need of a shower, and your body often feels the effects of sitting in a cramped position. It doesn’t seem to matter how long the flight was either; the flying process is exhausting. And this is really the first reason why train travel in Europe is a much better option!

One of the best things about trains is comfort. Generally speaking, trains offer much more space in their seats, so you won’t have to deal with cramping as much. Additional to the extra leg room, you’re more than welcome to get up and walk around while on your train journey, which can be a massive relief for those who easily get restless. And finally, catching a quick nap, or a full nights sleep is possible on a train as the seats are comfier, and some even offer sleep cabins if you’re travelling longer distances.

2. Flexibility

We don’t want to give you the impression that you can hop on or off any train, no matter the time. Europe is a bit more organised than that. But you can be spontaneous in your travels if you decide to spend a few extra days somewhere. With Interrail and Eurail, you can purchase a variety of train passes depending on your preference and destinations.

Let’s say you want to explore France by train over the course of 3 weeks. You can purchase a France Pass for 67€ which gives you 8 travel days in a month. You can choose your destinations and travel days at will, making your trip very flexible! Or maybe you have more time to travel and want to see as many countries as possible? Then simply go for The Global Pass, which gives you unlimited train travel in Europe within a 3 month period. Airlines and busses could never compete with this kind of flexibility!

14 Reasons for Train Travel in Europe

Paris, France

3. Time Saver

We tend to view air travel as the quickest way to get around, but that’s a pretty big misconception. While the actual travel time might be faster, the time spent commuting to the airport, clearing security, and all that other airport stuff is either about the same, or longer than train travel. And it’s more stressful to fly than it is to hop on a train.

First and foremost, airports are typically located a considerable distance outside the city (assuming you’re even planning on travelling to cities). Whereas train stations are always easy to get to. Secondly, you don’t have to spend time in a queue to check in, or clear a security check in order to board a train. Regardless of your final destination, trains only require you to arrive 15 minutes before departure, as opposed to the one hour or more required by airlines. And finally, you don’t have to clear customs or wait for baggage upon arrival. You just exit the train and start your next adventure!

4. Environmentally Friendly Travel

Over the past few years, a lot of attention has been paid to the amount of annual carbon emissions produced by the travel industry, and air travel seems to be the biggest evil culprit. In comparison, trains produce the second lowest amount of carbon emissions. As a result, many have switched to trains as their preferred travel method in an effort to help fight climate change.

Trains also transport hundreds more passengers than planes, meaning more people are able to travel with a smaller carbon footprint. Train travel in Europe is really a great option if you want to see the world and help keep it beautiful!

14 Reasons for Train Travel in Europe

Interlaken, Switzerland

5. Budget Friendly

Our final reason why train travel in Europe is the best is because it’s extremely budget friendly. Remember when we mentioned the France Pass for a cool 67€ for 8 travel days in a month? Well, if you took those trips individually, you’d be looking at upwards of 400€ or more if booked spontaneously.

Additionally, the Interrail and Eurail passes entitle you to loads of cool offers and discounts, and they vary in each country! For example, if your pass includes Germany, you’re able to take any DB Bus in the country for free. And regardless of what type of pass you have, you’re also entitled to a 10% discount at all locations within the Europe’s Famous Hostels network! Check out our blog post here for more info.

6. Pet and Bike Friendly

If you’re envisioning a trip where you can bring your pet or bicycle, then you probably already know how easy it is to bring your fur baby or bicycle on board! Sure, you may have to pay extra and let the train company know in advance, but it’s much easier than a plane. Often times, planes will separate you from your pet and make you disassemble your bike before boarding. But trains? They let you stay with your pet, and your bike comes on assembled!

14 Reasons for Train Travel in Europe

Travel easier with your pet!

7. Bring Your Own Food

Airplane food doesn’t have a great reputation, so we don’t blame you for wanting to bring your own. And on top of that, many airlines are starting to charge extra for meals, snacks, and drinks. And it never comes cheap. If you’re looking to save your palate, some money, or perhaps you require certain items in your diet, then travelling by train is certainly a better option for you. You can bring whatever you want, including drinks.

8. Scenery

Don’t get us wrong, we love the view from a plane window just as much as anyone. But often times, the view is only worth it if you’re flying over a mountain range in the day, or a city at night. But the scenery you’ll see on a train journey is almost always beautiful. And seeing as windows are MUCH bigger on trains, you won’t have to strain your neck trying to get a nice view or enviable Instagram shot.

14 Reasons for Train Travel in Europe

Salzburg, Austria

9. Stopovers

Okay, we know we said that train travel is typically a time saver. But you know this isn’t true if you’re travelling a longer distance. For example, if you were to travel from Paris to Milan, you could do it in less than 2 hours. And while a train ride might take a bit longer than that, you have the option to break the journey up by stopping somewhere cool along the way. Maybe you could do lunch in Switzerland? Or even stop for a day, and continue the journey to Milan later on the next day. The possibilities are endless!

10. Seat Switching!

It’s true you can’t just sit anywhere on a train; many train lines (Deutsch Bahn, for example), allow passengers to reserve seats for their journey. But if there’s no indication the seat has been reserved, it’s up for grabs! Have you ever boarded a plane and the person next to you smells like they went to a festival months ago but haven’t taken a shower since? The chances of you getting assigned to a new seat is pretty low. But not on a train! You can just get up and find a new spot, all without even having to ask an attendant or letting your seat-mate know why you’re changing. Sounds nice, right?!

14 Reasons for Train Travel in Europe

Budapest, Hungary

11. No Luggage & Liquid Limits

Ever show up to the airport with your luggage, only to find out its overweight? If you’re nodding yes, you also know how expensive that can be. The beauty of train travel is you don’t have to stress about your bags being too big, or too heavy. It saves you the worry, and possibly a nice chunk of cash, too!

But for those short term trips, overweight luggage isn’t the issue: liquid limits are. If you have a 12-step skincare routine, choosing which items to bring is a task and a half. And watching airport security confiscate your expensive and quality items is always a heartbreaking scene.

12. No Turbulence

One of the worst things about air travel is when a bout of turbulence happens. Not only does your life flash before your eyes, but it can actually cause injury if it’s bad enough. In addition, if you already have a fear of flying, any amount of turbulence could be enough to turn you off from ever stepping on a plane again. But obviously this isn’t an issue with trains, so this should be enough to convince you just how much better train travel is!

14 Reasons for Train Travel in Europe

Frankfurt, Germany

13. Arrive Directly in Your Destination

Remember when we mentioned train travel can be a time saver? This is actually true. Have you ever landed at an airport and spent over an hour commuting to the city? If you’ve ever flown with RyanAir or other discounted airlines, you know how true this is. But you can skip that hassle with trains and arrive in the centre of your destination!

14. No Need for Airplane Mode

Have you ever rocked up to the airport only to realise too late their in-flight entertainment system, or lack thereof, is terrible? Or maybe you just forgot to download some things before takeoff, and now you’re stuck with your own thoughts. How terrible! Well, you can skip that whole mess with trains. You never have to go on airplane mode, and if you’re lucky enough to score a seat with a table, you know how comfortable the ride will be.

14 Reasons for Train Travel in Europe

Milan, Italy

Where to Stay in Europe

Europe’s Famous Hostels is a network of some of the best hostels in Europe. All our hostels are top rated, offer incredible amenities, and a comfortable bed to rest your head at night. From the Scottish Highlands to Jerusalem, Europe’s Famous Hostels can be found in 39 amazing destinations, waiting to be discovered.

14 Reasons for Train Travel in Europe

Travel by train has never been easier or more popular, so we hope you’re now convinced to give it a try! If you’re looking for more information to help you plan, click here. Our blog ranges from city guides, to food guides, travel tips, and more, all in an effort to inspire your next getaway. For all the latest news at Famous Hostels, follow us or subscribe on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest, and Youtube.

Search
Generic filters
Exact matches only
Filter by Custom Post Type

Unique, Authentic & Local

If you’re looking for something cool and unique – checkout Famous Hostels!
Logo

Find A Great Hostel to Sleep in

Travelling with Interrail? Get extra discounts up to 20% with your CO2 savings.Yes, I am interested!https://www.famoushostels.com/eco-wandererBook Now100% SSL safe transaction. It pays to book direct from the hostel!Please wait while we gather secure information from the hostel you have requested...Aw! This is upsetting... \A Direct booking save you money, but if not working soon, close this and start over.Check out Hostel Full DetailsFind AvailabilityCloseAllSelected