Travelling by train across Europe is one of the most memorable experiences any traveller can have — and in 2026 it’s never been easier to book tickets online. This guide covers everything: Interrail passes, high-speed tickets and the best routes to see Europe at the right pace.
Interrail vs Direct Ticket — Which is Better Value?
| Interrail Global Pass | Direct Ticket (Byway) | |
|---|---|---|
| Ideal for | 3+ countries, flexible route | 1–2 destinations, fixed route |
| Average price | €331 (7 days/month) | €80–150 per journey |
| Seat reservations | Required (€3–13 per train) | Included |
| High-speed trains | With extra reservation | Includes AVE, TGV, Eurostar |
| Flexibility | High | Low |
5 Best Train Routes in Europe
1. Lisbon → Madrid → Barcelona (2 days)
The Lusitânia Comboiohotel overnight train takes you from Lisbon to Madrid (9h), you wake up in Madrid and jump on the AVE to Barcelona (2h30). Spectacular — no flights needed.
2. Paris → Amsterdam → Brussels (3–5 days)
The Thalys connects Paris–Brussels in 1h22 and Paris–Amsterdam in 3h20. Three of Europe’s most iconic cities in one rail trip.
✈️ Free: Best Travel Deals Every Week
Join fellow travelers getting hand-picked deals. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
3. Vienna → Budapest → Prague (5–7 days)
Europe’s most scenic Central European route. Frequent trains, affordable prices, breathtaking Danube valley scenery.
4. Zurich → Interlaken → Milan (2–3 days)
Crossing the Swiss Alps by train is one of the most impressive experiences in the world. The Glacier Express and Bernina Express are unforgettable.
5. Edinburgh → London → Paris (3–4 days)
Train from Scotland to Paris via Eurostar. Three countries, no flights, completely different scenery on each leg.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a separate seat reservation with an Interrail pass?
Yes, on high-speed and overnight trains a seat reservation is mandatory (€3–13 extra). On regional and slower intercity trains, the pass is sufficient. Always check with the rail operator.
Can I travel from Portugal to Paris by train?
Yes. Lusitânia Comboiohotel overnight to Madrid, then AVE to the Spanish/French border at Irún, then TGV to Paris. Total: around 16–18 hours with 2 changes. The train is more of an experience than a convenience — a flight takes 2h15.
Does the Eurostar still run after Brexit?
Yes. Eurostar continues to run between London and Paris/Brussels/Amsterdam. You need a valid passport (ID card not accepted) and there’s customs control at departure. Check in at least 30 minutes before departure.
🚆 European Train Tickets: Byway Travel
For more, see cheapest ways to get around Europe by air.
Sobre o autor — Rui Carreiro
Born in the Azores — literally in the middle of the Atlantic — Rui Carreiro spent 11 years working in the travel industry before turning that experience into a mission: making extraordinary travel accessible for everyone. He has visited 50+ countries, personally tested hundreds of deals, and researched 500+ destinations. Every guide, comparison and recommendation on this site is written, tested and signed by him. We earn affiliate commissions when you book through our links — at no extra cost to you.---Nascido nos Açores, Rui Carreiro acumulou 11 anos de experiência na indústria de viagens antes de criar o Traveler Whisper. Já visitou 50+ países e testou centenas de deals. Todos os guias e recomendações são escritos, testados e assinados por ele. Ganhamos comissões de afiliado quando reservas pelos nossos links — sem custo adicional para ti.