There are rail routes into every corner of the European continent, but some take longer than others. Heavily traveled routes such as Paris-Avignon or Milan-Venice offer high-speed travel on board state-of-the-art bullet trains, some of which offer meal service and cafe cars as well as air-conditioning and more luggage room than a standard train. The less-traveled routes or those with rugged terrain still operate slower standard trains which are just as reliable if not modern. Quality and style of trains will vary depending on the country.
Schedules tend to be frequent and daily across European rail routes with the exception of lesser-populated areas and Eastern European countries which have not constructed as many or as convenient rail routes. Tickets are available in any rail station and can be purchased for travel anywhere within a given country, but tickets for travel within another country cannot be purchased outside of that country. Online brokers sell tickets for travel anywhere in Europe for travel 30 days or more in the future.
Rail passes are a great way to save money when traveling Europe by rail. These passes are offered in different forms to suit travelers who may require solo or group travel, of varying ages, who may be traveling for short or long periods of time, and for travel in either one country, several countries or all Western European countries. Passes must be purchased prior to departure for Europe. Discounts are also extended in some instances to non-pass holders for age (youth or senior) or off-peak fares.
