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How to Travel Across Europe by Train with Interrail: The Ultimate Guide

  • Gerda Kisarevska
  • 2 days ago
  • 3 min read

There’s something special about seeing Europe from a train window — watching the scenery change from mountain peaks to seaside towns, and waking up in a new country without ever boarding a plane. If you’ve ever dreamed of slow travel and ultimate freedom, Interrail might be your ticket to the perfect European adventure.


With one pass, you can explore over 30 countries — from the vineyards of France to the fjords of Norway. Whether you’re a planner or a spontaneous traveler, here’s everything you need to know before starting your journey.


Discover with us:



🎟️ What Is Interrail?


The Interrail Pass is a single ticket that lets European residents travel by train across 33 countries. There are two main types:

  • Global Pass: Travel across multiple countries freely — perfect for long adventures.

  • One Country Pass: Explore one destination in depth, like Italy, France, or Switzerland.


You choose how many travel days you want within a certain period (for example, 5 travel days within one month). This gives you full flexibility to stay longer wherever you fall in love.


Pro tip: Non-European travelers can use the Eurail Pass, which works the same way.



Europe by train — the adventure begins where the tracks meet the horizon
Europe by train — the adventure begins where the tracks meet the horizon


🗓️ How to Plan Your Route



Planning your Interrail journey is almost as exciting as the trip itself! Start with what inspires you most — beaches, mountains, art, or food — and connect destinations by train.

Here are a few route ideas:

  • The Mediterranean Escape: Lisbon → Madrid → Barcelona → Nice → Rome

  • Central Europe Classics: Prague → Vienna → Budapest → Kraków

  • The Alpine Adventure: Zurich → Innsbruck → Salzburg → Munich

  • Northern Lights Route: Copenhagen → Stockholm → Oslo → Bergen


Pro tip: Download the Rail Planner App to check timetables, see which trains require reservations, and track your journeys.



Every great journey starts with a map, a dream, and a bit of curiosity
Every great journey starts with a map, a dream, and a bit of curiosity


🚉 How the Pass Works


  1. Choose your pass – Select how many travel days you need.

  2. Activate it – Do it digitally through the Rail Planner App.

  3. Reserve seats – Some high-speed or night trains require this.

  4. Show your ticket – When asked, just display your digital pass.


Pro tip: Regional trains rarely require reservations — perfect for spontaneous detours!



A vibrant collection of train tickets pinned to a board, showcasing a series of journeys and memories
A vibrant collection of train tickets pinned to a board, showcasing a series of journeys and memories

💤 Night Trains – Wake Up in a New Country


Night trains are one of Interrail’s hidden gems. You save money on accommodation and arrive in a new city by morning.

Popular routes include:

  • Vienna → Venice

  • Paris → Berlin

  • Zurich → Amsterdam

  • Stockholm → Hamburg

You can choose a regular seat, a shared couchette, or even a private cabin.


Pro tip: Book night trains early — they sell out fast, especially in summer.


Falling asleep in Paris, waking up in Berlin — night trains make it possible
Falling asleep in Paris, waking up in Berlin — night trains make it possible

💶 Budget Tips for Your Interrail Journey


Interrailing doesn’t have to be expensive. Here’s how to save:

  • Take regional trains — slower, but usually no extra fees.

  • Bring your own meals — a baguette and cheese make the perfect picnic.

  • Stay in hostels or guesthouses near stations.

  • Travel off-season (spring or autumn) for cheaper stays and fewer crowds.


A picnic on the rails — the simplest meals taste better with a view
A picnic on the rails — the simplest meals taste better with a view

🧭 Why Choose Interrail?


Because it’s about freedom — the kind where you can change plans at any moment, meet travelers from around the world, and watch Europe unfold slowly outside your window. You’ll experience landscapes, languages, and cultures blending together — something you’ll never get on a flight.

Every stop becomes part of your story — the train rides, the small-town cafés, the people you meet along the way.


The best part of Interrail? You never know what’s waiting at the next stop
The best part of Interrail? You never know what’s waiting at the next stop


Final Thoughts

Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, traveling with Interrail is one of the most enriching ways to see Europe. It’s flexible, scenic, sustainable, and full of surprises — a reminder that the best adventures are often between the destinations.


We’ve reached the end of this article, but your Interrail journey might be just beginning. For more inspiration, check out our previous blogs for ideas on where to eat, drink, and explore. Stay tuned for more articles on our website, and follow us on Instagram @thewalkingparrot for updates on upcoming travel guides and tours. All aboard for your next adventure! 🚄

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