Download the Eurail map to help you decide how many countries you want to visit. Factor in your budget and the number of days that you want to travel.
To make a decision as to the best choice for tickets compare point-to-point or railpass. Buy point-to-point tickets, which often are available at discount prices, if you intend to make only a few short visits. Buy a Eurail pass if you are traveling more extensively.
Choose whether you want to travel first or second class or travel overnight.
Decide on the pass that best suits your travel needs, if you choose to travel with a pass. Be aware that there are four kinds of passes that allow visits to anywhere from one up to 22 countries.
Purchase the ticket or pass. Shop around for a pass from an online site; prices are set by the EU, however some agencies may add on a handling fee, while others may offer bonuses.
Activate your ticket at a train station before you first use it. Find a railway official at either a ticket office or a Eurail aid office to activate; it cannot be done by the pass holder.
Reserve a seat whether you are using a pass or point-to-point ticket in order to guarantee a seat; many trains require a reservation.
