Traveling by train across Europe is one of the most convenient and scenic ways to explore the continent. Having ridden trains throughout Europe for the past 15 years, I’ve come to love the experience. But with the variety of train networks and schedules, it’s easy for even seasoned travelers to make some common mistakes. Here are four frequent missteps—and tips on how to avoid them.
1. Avoiding Train Stations for Fear of “Bad” Neighborhoods
One of the most common mistakes I see is travelers changing their plans to avoid arriving at train stations early in the morning or late at night, assuming the stations are in unsafe areas. While it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, I’ve never felt unsafe in or around the European stations I’ve visited. In fact, I prefer staying near them for convenience. Stations are typically well-connected to other parts of the city, making them excellent bases for exploring. For example, during a recent trip to Vienna, I stayed just a block from the train station at the Andaz Vienna Am Belvedere, which was also close to the upscale Stephansplatz area.
2. Missing Out on Great Deals
While many travelers turn to Eurail Passes for multi-country travel, there are often better deals to be found. Eurail offers both single-country and global passes, but with a bit of research, you can often uncover discounted tickets that are just as cost-effective—or even cheaper. On one occasion, I secured a family package from Rome to Venice that included first-class seats, snacks, and drinks for just $66. Additionally, I booked roundtrip tickets between Austria and Slovakia for just $22, which also included local transport options in Bratislava. The key is to dig around online and compare prices, rather than relying on the first option you find.
3. Waiting Too Long to Book Reservations
Though not all European trains require seat reservations, some do, and it’s crucial to book in advance for routes that require them. For instance, when I was traveling from Kraków to Warsaw, reservations opened 30 days before departure. I set a reminder, but when I went to book my seat later in the day, many of the preferred seats had already been taken. Waiting until the last minute means you may have to stand for your journey, which can be uncomfortable, especially on long trips. Additionally, booking earlier typically results in cheaper fares, so planning ahead is always a good idea.
4. Overpacking for Train Travel
Train travel in Europe is known for its efficiency, and trains don’t linger long at stations. Therefore, it’s essential to be able to board and disembark quickly. Bringing too much luggage can slow you down and make the process more difficult for other passengers. Most trains don’t offer a lot of space for bulky bags, so I recommend traveling light. I now use a wheeled carry-on suitcase and aim to keep it as minimal as possible, ensuring I can move quickly and easily through stations.
Final Thoughts
Traveling by train in Europe can be a fantastic experience, but avoiding these common mistakes will make your journey smoother, more affordable, and more enjoyable. By staying aware of your surroundings, booking early, and traveling light, you can fully embrace the freedom and convenience of Europe’s extensive rail system.
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