Train rides can be a fun and relaxing adventure for traveling alone, but also a great experience for traveling with your significant other, friends or family. Apart from being comfy and kind of romantically retro, train rides are in most cases, cheaper than other modes of transportation.
If you want to travel on a budget, we have prepared some ideas for you. Here is a list of top trains to travel through Europe on your next journey.
Before you start your journey
Train rides are great in multiple ways, but they also have some bad sides. One thing you should know about trains is that they are slower ways to travel. Apart from the high speed trains, a ride with a regular train can sometimes be twice as long as a bus ride, for example.
This means that you should be well organized for your travel, especially if you have a certain event or a meeting you should not be late to. Plan your travel on time, so you do not have to worry about it later. You can even get personalized train tours online, according to your schedule and preferences.
Book your rides in advance, to save even more money and get your luggage set ready. Bonus points for trains as most companies allow you to bring food and drinks, and in most cases, your furry companions are also welcome on board in their carriers.
1. France
Take your time and book a train ride to and through one of the most romantic countries in the world. One of France’s most popular train companies is SNCF. We suggest you book your tickets in advance, and if possible, get a return ticket.
That will save you some money so you can spend more on perfumes and delicious French pastry!
2. Italy
The country of one of the world’s most popular cuisines offers you multiple train tickets to choose from. Company Trenitalia Trains, for example, offers a “super economy” ticket. It is cheaper than the others, but also less time-flexible.
Do not forget to check all the details when booking a ticket. If time is not essential to you, this is probably the best option for your wallet.
3. Norway
Norway is quite equipped with trains and train rides are a very common way to travel there. Students usually take this mode of transportation, so if you are a student as well, you can check if there are some international student discounts and benefits.
There are 3 large train companies in Norway – state railway VY, SJ Nord, and GoAhead. Some of the trains are local, others go regional, so make sure you check that out when booking a ticket. For example Oslo to Bergen travel is considered regional.
4. United Kingdom
Probably the country that offers you the most to choose from – a whole 28 major train companies. Same goes as with Norway, some of the trains go local, some go regional, so do not forget to check that.
The biggest UK train company is the GTR Network. It consists of 4 partnered companies – new Thameslink, Great Northern lines, Southern and Gatwick Express. The UK offers luxurious train rides that are pretty pricey, but the quality is impeccable.
On the other hand, traveling on a budget can require a bit more time to research as there are many trains and companies there. Take your time to find the best option for you and your budget. There are multiple sites that will find the cheapest tickets for you, so that is a bonus advice to stay on a budget.
Trains can be a great experience as they offer comfortable and affordable rides, plus you can take your time to enjoy the scenery while you are traveling. Book your tickets, pack your favorite book and take more time for yourself. Relax and enjoy the ride.
