Interrail travel guide: what it is and essential tips
Traveling through the picturesque landscapes of Europe by train can be a dream come true for many. With the Interrail pass, you can turn this dream into a reality, exploring various countries with ease and flexibility. If you’ve ever felt the allure of hopping on a train and discovering the hidden gems of Europe, this guide is for you. Join us as we delve deeper into the Interrail experience, from planning your journey to tips for making the most of your adventure.
1. Understanding Interrail: What You Need to Know
Before you embark on your European adventure, it’s crucial to grasp the essence of Interrail. This pass allows you to travel across numerous countries by train, providing a unique way to experience the diverse cultures and landscapes of Europe.
✓ What is Interrail?
Interrail is a rail pass that grants you the ability to travel by train across a vast network in Europe. Depending on the type of pass you select, you can traverse the rails of up to 30 countries. With Interrail, you can enjoy spontaneous travel while keeping your itinerary flexible.
✓ Differences between Interrail and Eurail
While Interrail and Eurail serve similar purposes, they cater to different groups of travelers. The Interrail pass is designed for residents of European countries, while the Eurail pass is available for non-European residents. So, if you hold a passport from an EU country, you should opt for Interrail.
✓ Countries Not Included
Interrail covers a broad expanse, but there are notable exclusions. The pass is valid in 30 countries, including popular destinations like France, Germany, and Italy. However, it does not cover:
- Russia
- Estonia
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Bielorrusia
- Ucrania
- Moldavia
- Albania
- Kosovo
Be aware that some Eastern European countries may have limited train connections, and you may need to consider alternative transport options.
✓ Types of Interrail Passes
Interrail offers two main types of passes:
- Global Pass: This pass allows travel across 30 participating countries.
- One Country Pass: Ideal for those who wish to explore a single country in depth.
Each pass also comes with two variations:
- Flexi Pass: Travel for a selected number of days within a specified time frame, allowing for non-consecutive travel.
- Continuous Pass: Travel freely without daily limits during the entire validity period.
✓ Pricing Overview
The cost of an Interrail pass varies based on the type and travel duration. For example:
- Global Pass:
- 5 days within 10 days: €264
- 10 days within 22 days: €374
- 15 continuous days: €414
- 22 continuous days: €484
- 1-month continuous: €626
- One Country Pass: The price differs by country. For instance:
- Italy: from €118 (3 days in a month) to €239 (8 days in a month)
- Germany: from €203 (3 days in a month) to €313 (8 days in a month)
- Spain: from €173 (3 days in a month) to €297 (8 days in a month)
Discounts are available for travelers under 26 and over 60, making it even more affordable. Note that first-class tickets are significantly more expensive and may not offer the best value.
✓ What is Included in the Pass?
With your Interrail pass, you gain access to more than just trains. It also includes:
- Discounts on ferries
- Discounts on buses
- Reduced rates for accommodations and attractions
However, do keep in mind that the Eurostar high-speed train between London and France or Belgium is not included in the pass.
✓ Train Reservations: A Necessity?
While your pass covers the cost of train travel, some routes require reservations, particularly high-speed and overnight trains. Reservations can carry an additional fee. For example, a sleeper reservation in the Balkans might cost around €6. During peak travel times, it's advisable to secure your reservations in advance.
✓ The 7 PM Rule
This rule is crucial for optimizing your travel days. If you board a night train after 7 PM that arrives after 4 AM, it counts as only one travel day, even if you disembark earlier. However, this doesn't apply to your first travel day, so plan accordingly.
✓ Who is Interrail For?
Interrail is particularly suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy immersing themselves in local cultures and taking the time to explore. It caters to those who are flexible, appreciate spontaneity, and prioritize the journey as much as the destination. Remember, this pass is exclusively for residents of the EU. If you live outside Europe but hold a European passport, you have the option to choose either Interrail or Eurail.
✓ Choosing the Right Pass
Before purchasing your pass, consider your travel route and the countries you wish to visit. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Assess the cost-effectiveness of the pass versus purchasing individual tickets.
- Evaluate the duration of your trip.
- Decide whether your travel will be frequent or occasional.
- Consider combining other transport methods to save money.
✓ How to Buy the Interrail Pass
Purchasing the pass is straightforward and can be done online up to three months in advance. You will need to provide personal information and select your start date. If you make a mistake or wish to change any details, you can request a full refund (minus a small fee) and place a new order. Shipping is free across Europe.
✓ What Comes with the Package?
When you receive your Interrail pass, you also get a guide on how to use it and a helpful railway map detailing all routes and lines, available in your preferred language.
2. Planning Your Journey
Once your pass arrives and you’ve unfolded the accompanying map, it’s time to start planning your adventure. Here’s how to get started:
✓ Choosing Your Route and Trains
Plan your journey by considering train schedules, connections, and travel durations. Several online resources can assist with this:
- Interrail's official website, which also offers the Rail Planner app.
- German train service schedules can be found on Rail CC's website.
- For bus schedules and prices, visit Rome2Rio or Omio.
- Always check the websites of individual rail companies for the most accurate information.
✓ Booking Accommodations
It’s wise to reserve your accommodations in advance, especially during high season and in tourist hotspots. You can use platforms like Booking or Airbnb for a wider range of options.
3. On the Road: Tips for Your Journey
Now that you’re ready, let’s explore some practical tips to ensure your Interrail experience is seamless.
✓ Do I Need to Reserve Trains?
As mentioned earlier, certain trains require reservations, especially high-speed and overnight ones. It’s advisable to book these in advance, especially during busy travel periods.
✓ How to Make Reservations
Reservations can vary by country. You can typically reserve trains at the station or through each country's rail website. Interrail also offers a reservation service for an additional fee. When arriving at a station, ask the staff whether a reservation is necessary for your intended route.
✓ Accessing Money Abroad
We recommend using a special travel card to minimize fees when withdrawing money abroad. Many traditional banks charge high fees for withdrawals and transactions made in a different currency. We personally recommend the Revolut and N26, both of which offer free versions with excellent conditions for travelers.
✓ How to Use the Pass
Using your Interrail pass is straightforward. Before boarding your first train, bus, or ferry each day, fill in the date on your travel calendar. For trains that don’t require a reservation, you can board directly. The conductor will check your pass and stamp it during your journey.
✓ Crossing Borders
Crossing borders is typically a smooth process. Within the Schengen area, you won’t need to show your passport. However, for non-Schengen countries, be prepared to show your passport at the border.
✓ Useful Tools for Travelers
Here are some handy tools to enhance your travel experience:
- The Interrail map included with your pass is invaluable for navigation.
- The Rail Planner app for checking train schedules and routes.
- Apps like GoEuro for bus schedules and pricing.
- Consider using BlaBlaCar for ridesharing options.
- If you travel to non-English speaking countries, a phrasebook can be incredibly helpful.
- Download CityMaps for offline city maps.
With this comprehensive guide, you are now well-equipped to embark on your Interrail adventure through Europe. Prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with exploration, culture, and perhaps a little bit of spontaneity!
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