Your One Stop Guide To Planning A Travel Across Europe By Trains

Picture this: breezing through lush vineyards, snow-capped peaks, and medieval towns, all while sitting comfortably by a large window on a smooth-running train. Sounds dreamy, right? If you’re planning to travel across Europe, the continent’s extensive rail network is the ultimate way to explore, and, trust me, it’s as fun as it sounds!

For Indian travelers, Europe’s train travel is a world apart from the chaotic rush of the Indian Railways (no offense to our charming chaos), and thankfully, European trains run like a well-greased clock. So, here’s your one-stop guide to navigating Europe by train like a pro!

All Aboard! The Indian Traveler’s Guide to European Train Adventures

Why travel Europe by train?

1. Easy-peasy convenience

Forget airports, baggage restrictions, and endless security checks. Traveling by train in Europe is a breath of fresh air (and way less stressful). You show up at the station minutes before your train departs, find your seat, and relax. And the best part? Most European train stations are smack dab in the city centers, so you step off and walk straight into the action. No more wrestling with airport transfers!

Also read: Complete Travel Guide to visit Holy Vatican City, Rome from India

2. The scenery is to die for

Let’s be honest, flying doesn’t give you the same wanderlust vibes as a train ride does. European trains roll through some of the most stunning landscapes imaginable. From the serene Swiss Alps to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the lavender fields of Provence, each journey feels like watching a National Geographic documentary, except you’re the star!

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3. Eco-friendly travel

In an era where sustainable travel is all the rage (as it should be!), train travel is the greenest way to get around Europe. Trains emit a fraction of the CO2 compared to flights, and the guilt of contributing to global warming stays behind as you hop aboard. Yay!

4. Flexible and budget-friendly

Worried about expenses? Fear not! With budget/convenient options like Eurail passes and plenty of affordable trains, European railways can cater to all types of Indian travelers, whether you’re a backpacker or a luxury seeker. Plus, trains often offer last-minute flexibility, unlike those annoying non-refundable plane tickets.

How to plan your European train journey

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1. Choose the right train pass

If your trip involves zipping between multiple countries, the Eurail Pass is your best friend. It lets you hop on and off trains across 33 countries without the hassle of booking individual tickets. Plus, it gives you the freedom to plan as you go, which is perfect for spontaneous detours (you know, like deciding on a whim to have a lunch croissant in Paris). There are different passes based on how many days you’ll be traveling, so pick one that fits your plan.

For those visiting just one country (say, Italy or Germany), there are country-specific passes that might be a better deal.

Pro tip: Book your Eurail Pass in advance from India. Many websites offer discounts, and some passes are available exclusively for non-European residents. Or if you’d like, you can purchase the pass directly from the official Eurail website.

Also read: Traveling to France? Here are Important Things an Indian Traveler Must Know

2. Plan, but leave room for serendipity

Europe is crisscrossed by more train routes than you can imagine. It’s tempting to schedule every leg of your journey down to the minute, but leave some wiggle room for unexpected discoveries! Want to add a stop in that charming little town you saw from the window? No problem! Europe’s extensive rail network allows for quick plan changes.

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3. First class or second class?

When you book European trains, you’ll often see two options: first class and second class. Here’s the deal, second class is totally fine for most Indian travelers. You’ll get comfy seats and plenty of space, even Wi-Fi on some longer routes. But if you’re all about that luxury life, first class does offer more spacious seating, quieter cars, and sometimes even meals. It’s worth splurging on those longer rides, especially on scenic routes like the Glacier Express through the Swiss Alps.

4. High-speed trains vs. regional trains

High-speed trains (like the Eurostar or TGV) are sleek, modern, and super-fast. You’ll be whizzing from Paris to London or Rome to Venice in just a few hours. But don’t ignore regional trains, they’re slower but allow you to explore hidden gems. High-speed trains often require seat reservations, which you can book online or at the station, while regional trains are more flexible and might not even need a reservation. It’s all about striking the right balance between the two!

Must-know tips for Indian travelers

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1. Indian palate on the go

In case you start you crave Indian spices, Europe is a diverse melting pot, and you’ll find Indian restaurants and takeaways even in the most unexpected places. From the lively streets of London to smaller towns in Germany, your craving for a hot masala chai or butter chicken will not go unanswered. And on most trains, especially the longer routes, they have snacks on board. A handy trick is to pack a few of your favorite munchies for those long train rides.

2. Language barrier? Not really

Worried about the language barrier? Don’t be! While English is not everyone’s first language, almost all train stations and timetables are translated into English. And hey, nothing that a quick “Google Translate” can’t fix. Plus, most ticket officers are used to dealing with international travelers, so you’ll get by with just a smile and a few gestures if needed.

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3. Currency juggling

If your European adventure spans multiple countries, you’ll need to switch between currencies. While most of Europe uses the Euro, some countries (Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Sweden) do not. Hence, while most places accept cards and Euros in large stores etc, keeping some local currency in hand is always helpful, especially in smaller towns or regional stations. Also, note that countries like Switzerland and the UK have their own currency (Swiss Franc and Pound respectively).

4. Luggage woes

Unlike Indian trains, European trains don’t have separate luggage coaches. You’ll be keeping your bags with you or stashing them on luggage racks near your seat. There are no porters to help, so travel light or be prepared to hoist that suitcase on your own! Don’t worry, though, stations usually have elevators and ramps, so you won’t have to lug it up too many stairs.

Also read: Schengen Visa Fee Hike: Your Europe Trips to Become Costlier from Today

Top scenic routes to consider

If you’ve got some flexibility in your itinerary, don’t miss out on these jaw-dropping train routes:

The Bernina Express (Switzerland-Italy)

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If you're craving an epic cross-border adventure, the Bernina Express is your ticket to travel nirvana! This UNESCO World Heritage route takes you from Switzerland into Italy, offering jaw-dropping views of the Swiss Alps. Imagine crossing snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and glistening lakes through windows that stretch from floor to ceiling. You'll feel like you're gliding through a postcard. And as you descend into Italy, the landscape shifts dramatically to vibrant vineyards and picturesque villages!

Cinque Terre Express (Italy)

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For a dose of coastal charm, hop on the Cinque Terre Express, which winds along Italy’s stunning coastline. This short but sweet ride connects the five colorful fishing villages of the Cinque Terre, where pastel houses cling to rugged cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Whether you're staying in one of these charming towns or just visiting, the train journey itself is like a mini photo op!

The Flam Railway (Norway)

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Norway's Flam Railway is one of the world’s steepest train journeys, and it’s absolutely packed with natural wonders. Winding through beautiful landscapes, this hour-long ride showcases everything from towering mountains and quaint towns to sparkling fjords and cascading waterfalls. One of the highlights? The famous Kjosfossen waterfall, where the train makes a special stop so you can step out and admire the view. This 20 km trip is short but unforgettable, perfect for Indian tourists that are nature lovers or thrill-seekers.

The West Highlands Line (UK)

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For Harry Potter fans, the West Highlands Line in Scotland is an absolute must! It’s most famous for the Jacobite steam train, affectionately known as the "Hogwarts Express." This route takes you through some of Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes, including the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, which Harry Potter fans will instantly recognize. It’s pure magic, whether you're a fan of the Wizarding World or not!

Also read: Countries that you must include in your European Itinerary

Final thoughts

For Indian travelers, exploring Europe by train is a rewarding, enriching experience that goes beyond ticking tourist spots off a list. It’s about immersing yourself in the journey itself, hopping between vibrant cities, and soaking in stunning landscapes at your own pace. With a little planning and a spirit of adventure, Europe is your oyster, just hop on a train and ride into the heart of it!