How to Plan a Perfect Eurotrip by Train

11 December 2025

So, you're dreaming about that epic Eurotrip, huh? Cobblestone streets, croissants for breakfast, beer in Berlin, sunsets in Venice — the whole romantic, adventurous package. And what better way to hop from one postcard-perfect destination to another than by train?

Planning a Eurotrip by train is not just smart — it’s an experience in itself. From the rhythmic hum of the tracks to spontaneous conversations with fellow travelers, there's something magical about exploring Europe by railway. But let's be honest: train travel across multiple countries sounds dreamy... until you start planning and realize it’s not as simple as grabbing a ticket and hopping onboard.

But don’t worry — I’ve got your back. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect Eurotrip by train. No fluff. Just helpful advice, hard-earned tips, and a whole lot of wanderlust.

Why Choose Train Travel for Your Eurotrip?

Imagine this: While others are standing in long airport lines, you're sipping coffee in a cozy train car, gliding through Swiss valleys or rolling through French countryside. Train travel in Europe isn't just about getting from A to B — it's about the journey itself.

Here’s why train travel rocks for your Eurotrip:

- Scenic Routes: Some train rides (think: Glacier Express or Cinque Terre) are basically moving postcards.
- City Centers to City Centers: Trains drop you off right in the heart of the city. No need for long airport transfers.
- No Baggage Fees or Security Hassles: No need to unpack your entire backpack at every station.
- Eco-Friendlier Option: It's greener than flying, which gives you a little karma boost.

Step 1: Set a Realistic Route (Don't Try to See All of Europe)

This is where most people go overboard. Europe looks small on the map… until you're actually there trying to squeeze in 10 countries in two weeks. Seriously, slow down.

Start by Asking Yourself:

- How much time do I have?
- What kind of vibe am I looking for? (Party? Beaches? Castles? Culture?)
- Am I okay with fast-paced travel, or do I want to chill and absorb each place?

A two to three-country itinerary over two weeks is more than enough. Mix up big cities with smaller towns. Paris and Rome are great, but so are Ljubljana and Bruges.

Sample Itinerary: 2 Weeks

- Paris – 3 Days
- Amsterdam – 2 Days
- Berlin – 3 Days
- Prague – 2 Days
- Vienna – 2 Days
- Daytrip or Overnight Train to Venice – 2 Days

And that’s plenty. Trust me.

Step 2: Research Train Passes vs. Point-to-Point Tickets

Here’s where things get a bit nerdy — but also where you can save serious cash.

When a Eurail Pass Makes Sense:

- You’re traveling to at least 4–5 cities/countries
- You prefer flexibility (hop on and off routes)
- You’re under 27 (youth passes are cheaper)

When Point-to-Point is Better:

- You're traveling less frequently
- Your itinerary is locked-in and you can buy early-bird tickets (usually cheaper)

👉 Use websites like RailEurope, the official Eurail site, or even national railway websites like SNCF (France), DB (Germany), or ÖBB (Austria) to compare prices.

If you go with Eurail, download the Rail Planner app — it’s an absolute lifesaver.

Step 3: Know Your Reservations

Not all trains are created equal. Some need seat reservations (even with a pass), others don’t. High-speed trains (like France’s TGV or Italy’s Frecciarossa) usually require reservations. Local or regional trains? Usually not.

Tip:

Don’t assume your pass covers everything. Check ahead, book your seat if needed, and never wing it on popular routes in high season (looking at you, Rome to Florence in July).

Step 4: Book Accommodations Close to Train Stations

This is such a game changer. After a 5-hour train ride, do you really want to hike across the city with your backpack?

Why Stay Near Stations?

- Super convenient for early departures or late arrivals.
- Many European train stations are centrally located (and even beautiful!).

Use Booking.com or Hostelworld and filter by distance to the station. Trust me, your future self will high-five you for this one.

Step 5: Pack Smart for Train Travel

You're not hiking the Himalayas, but you’ll still be lugging that bag up stairs and across platforms. Go light.

Essentials:

- A comfy backpack or small roller bag
- Quick-dry clothes, mix and match
- Universal power adapter
- Snacks (some trains don’t have food)
- A light scarf or hoodie (some cabins crank the AC like it's December)

And always keep your valuables in a smaller bag you can keep with you — especially when you nap or go to the food car.

Step 6: Embrace the Slower Pace

This isn’t some Amazing Race episode — it’s your Eurotrip. Don’t rush it.

Some of my favorite travel moments happened while people-watching at tiny train stations or chatting with locals on a slow regional train. Leave room for spontaneity. Maybe you love Prague and want to stay an extra day. That’s the beauty of train travel — you can pivot (most of the time).

Step 7: Snack Like a Local, Save Like a Boss

European trains can have pricey food carts, and let’s be honest — the ham sandwich isn’t always... inspiring.

The Move?

- Hit a local bakery or supermarket before boarding.
- Grab fresh bread, fruit, cheese, or even a cheeky bottle of wine if your train allows it.
- Some folks even pack little picnic meals. Romantic and budget-friendly.

Step 8: Know The Local Etiquette

Train culture in Europe is generally respectful. You don’t want to be “that tourist.”

Basic Train Etiquette:

- Keep your voice down (no shouting across cabins).
- Don’t spread your stuff all over the seats.
- If you're in someone else’s reserved spot, move quickly and politely.
- Clean up after yourself — leave no crumbs, no regrets.

Step 9: Use Tech to Level Up Your Trip

There are some awesome tools that'll make your train-based Eurotrip smoother than a well-aged wine.

Must-Have Apps:

- Rail Planner – Eurail’s official app, works offline.
- Google Maps – for getting to/from the station and finding food.
- Rome2Rio – great for comparing transport options between cities.
- Translate app – for navigating signs or chatting with locals.

Bonus: Download your train tickets and hostel confirmations offline. Stations can be Wi-Fi deserts, and you don't want to be stranded.

Step 10: Document it — But Be Present

Snap those pics, take those videos, jot down your thoughts — but also take time to just sit and be. Watch the scenery roll by. Smell that fresh bakery inside the Munich Hauptbahnhof. Say "hi" to the backpacker sitting across from you.

These little moments are what make a train Eurotrip unforgettable.

Some Hidden Gems Worth Adding to Your Itinerary

Wanna go a bit off the beaten track? Here are a few train-friendly towns and cities that don’t always make the “Top 10” lists but are well worth your time:

- Ghent, Belgium – medieval vibes without the tourist crush.
- Bled, Slovenia – like a fairytale, and an easy train ride from Ljubljana.
- Lucerne, Switzerland – lakes, mountains, and chocolate. Need I say more?
- Porto, Portugal – food, wine, and chill vibes.
- Český Krumlov, Czech Republic – tiny, dreamy, and totally underrated.

Final Thoughts: Your Perfect Train Trip is Personal

There’s no one-size-fits-all for Eurotrain travel. Your perfect trip might look nothing like someone else’s — and that’s the beauty of it.

Take your time. Be flexible. Don’t stress if you miss a connection or get a little lost. Some of the best stories start with, “So I took the wrong train in Spain…”

Enjoy the ride, both literally and figuratively. 🛤️

Handy Resources to Bookmark

- Eurail.com
- RailEurope
- Interrail (for European residents)
- Seat61.com – The Holy Grail for train travel info