Let’s get something straight. After decades of existence the Eurail Pass is no longer. Yep, as we previously new it, there was a Eurail Pass to travel Europe by train for Non-EU citizens and a Interrail Pass to travel Europe by train for EU citizens. As of 9 September 2026, there will only be the Interrail Pass which will be available for both EU and Non-EU citizens. Basically, everyone. The only thing changing, is the name, the passes will be the same.

So I’ve updated this ost from being The Ultimate Guide to the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass to The Ultimate Guide to the Interrail Pass to reflect the change.

How to know if the Interrail Pass is right for you?

Visiting Europe is on many people’s agendas and Europe is a vacation hotspot for a reason. Dotted with fascinating history and heritage, mouth-watering cuisine, and chic cities and iconic sights, a European vacation has something for everyone. The added benefit of traveling to Europe is how close everything is. But what ways can you travel Europe I hear? Well, one of the best ways for European travel is to purchase an Interrail Pass and hit the rails! The rail system throughout Europe is extensive linking cities and countries which is why it is a popular way to travel through Europe.

After riding the rails myself in Europe, this post is a review of the Interrail Pass. With this pass you can travel Europe by train and see everything on your list of European icons, and more.

If you already know you want to travel Europe by train, purchase your pass through Interrail or GetYourGuide.

If wanting accommodation on your European travels book via Booking.com.

Don’t forget travel insurance. Check out WorldNomads for a policy to suit your European train travels.

Why Travel Europe By Train?

Travelling through Europe by train has a number of benefits. And I think the pros of train travel far outweigh any cons of train travel.

• European train travel is an easy way to reach every destination thanks to the extensive rail system spanning through most of the EU member states.
• Taking a train allows you to see the beautiful scenery of the European countryside as you pass through areas and cities you don’t have time to visit.
• Travelling Europe by train is a very comfortable way to travel. Unlike bus / coach travel where you are required to sit in your seat while the bus / coach is in motion, on a train, you can get up and move through the carriages.
• There is often a restaurant carriage where you can buy food.
• Overnight trains have a sleeper carriage where you are able to book a bed to get a good night’s rest so you can hop off in the morning to sightsee for the day in your new destination. And this can save you money on accommodation costs.
• Train travel in Europe with a pass is also flexible. You can change your mind on your next destination.
• Trains run throughout the year, so you can be on a train, no matter the European season.

All pretty good reasons to choose to travel Europe by train, don’t you think?

READ MORE: 9 Tips to Survive Long-haul and Overnight Train Trips

What is an Interrail Pass?

An Interrail pass is designed to give travellers flexibility as they make their way through Europe. Traditional train tickets from point A to B are only good for that date, time, and route for which they are purchased. Having a train pass offers more freedom. Rather than purchasing each journey individually, you can purchase a pass and save money and time. 

Types of Interrail Passes

Interrail Passes.

• There is the Global Pass allowing a certain number of days travel within a month. For example, 7 days of travel within a period of one (1) month. This pass is great if you want to travel one day then spend a couple days in a certain place before moving on to your next destination.
• Then there is the Continuous Pass offering travel daily within the period of validity of the Pass. For example, you can travel every day within a period of 15 days. This is best if your train trip is only for a few hours then you can spend the rest of the hours in a destination before moving on the next day.

Is there an Age Limit on Passes?

No, there is no age limit. Passes are available for adults, youth (under 28 years of age), children (4-11 years) and seniors (60 years and over).

Once you have chosen the type of pass that suits you best, then you can purchase it for either first or second class travel. Differences between the two classes are minimal but in general, first-class seating is more spacious, with fewer seats in each compartment, has more room for luggage and is often quieter. However, most passengers travel in second class with comfortable seating where you can chat to other travellers.

Paper or Mobile Interrail Pass

Passes are available in both printed ticket or electronic form. If you choose the electronic format, the pass will be downloaded on your device through the Rail Planner App. When requested by carrier staff you will present the mobile pass ticket or your printed ticket.

First or Second Class Tickets

You can choose between a first class or a second class travel. The biggest difference is to do with the size and comfortability of the seat.

How to use Your Interrail Pass?

Using the Interrail pass is simple. Some trains may require a reservation ahead of time, but the majority allow you to board by just showing your pass. This feature comes in handy if you’ve missed your train or decided to change your travel plans. Take full control of your travel by hopping on and off the train when it’s most convenient for you.

To start your journey you need to activate the Interrail pass. Make sure to do this before your first train ride so you have a valid ticket on hand. You can activate your pass at most large train stations, but if you know the date of your first planned trip then you can activate the pass when you buy it for that date.

After activating your pass get ready to travel. This even includes boat and buses in the Interrail network. Plus, your travel days do not need to be taken consecutively. You have complete control over when and how you use your pass. Just make sure that you take your last ride until 11:59 PM on the last day because it will expire at this time.

How to Plan Your Europe Trip By Rail?

There are various options when purchasing the Interrail pass. You get to choose how many travel days are included in your pass depending on your travel itinerary. When planning your Europe trip by rail, it’s important to consider a couple of things:

• length of your holiday, and
• how many destinations are on your list. 

This will help you determine how many travel days you need for your train pass. Next, you should carefully look at the countries you intend to visit and how well they are connected by rail. If you’re trip takes place in European countries that don’t use the pass system then the pass won’t help you very much. Be thorough when planning your trip to ensure everything goes smoothly once you arrive in Europe.

READ MORE: 1 month in European Itinerary – The Perfect Central Europe Itinerary for first timers (which is train friendly)

European Country Passes

As well as the Interrail Passes covering many areas in Euroe, there are also Europe country train passes available. These will allow you to travel extensively in one country. Here is a selection of tickets and passes to ride some famous Europe train options. There are a number of places to buy the train ticket or pass for Europe that is right for you. They include:

• GetYourGuide – has a number of Europe train passes available for purchase as well as other train tickets for unique Europe train trips. Including:
• The Eurostar from London to Paris day trip.
• Glacier Express. Scenic route between St. Moritz and Zermatt.
• Swiss Travel Pass: Unlimited travel on train, bus & boat.
• Benelux Mobile Pass: Travel for Belgium, The Netherlands & Luxemburg.

Interrail FAQs

What is an Interrail Pass?

An Interrail Pass is a train pass that allow you to travel through Europe, visiting different European countries on the one ticket.

Who can use an Interrail Pass?

Passes are available to everyone and anyone of all ages.

Will you save money purchasing an Interrail Pass?

Yes you can. It works out cheaper to buy a pass rather than buying a ticket from A to B.

Are You Ready to Travel Europe by Train?

If you are planning a trip to Europe, consider train travel using an Interrail Pass. It will give you great flexibility to see the parts of Europe you want to see. You can start in London and catch the Eurostar to Europe or start in one of the major European cities. It could be 3 days in Paris today, 3 days in Rome tomorrow. Book your Interrail Pass now, then kick back and relax, and watch Europe unfold before your eyes through the train window. Enjoy your European adventure by train!

Now, It’s Time to Pack

Packing for your European trip will depend on the season you will be visiting. Here are two suggested packing lists, one for the summer months and one for the winter months.

• Summer Packing List for Europe
• Winter Packing List for Europe
• Choosing Luggage for Your European Vacation
• Best Packing Cubes for Travel