Have you been planning the ultimate European Trip ? The charming villages, iconic cities, and breathtaking landscapes that you always wanted to explore ?
Your ticket to unlocking all these wonders can be the Interrail pass – your gateway to an epic journey.

Wave goodbye to being scrunched up in an airplane seat waiting for that ‘Fasten Seat Belt’ light to be turned off. Say hello to stretching your legs and walking around at will.
Train travel in Europe is often more flexible than flying. Interrail has been around since the groovy days of the 1970s. It’s been a go-to way of zipping around Europe, no doubt about it. On many routes you don’t need to make a reservation, meaning that you change your plans on a whim, traveling where you fancy.
With an Interrail pass in hand, you’re not just taking a train; you’re stepping onto a path of discovery. It’s like having a magic key that opens doors to new cultures, languages, and mind-blowing sights .
Whether you’re a travel-savvy explorer or someone who’s simply eager to soak in new experiences, Interrail is your golden ticket. You even have the option to customize your adventure, hopping on and off trains, and creating memories that’ll last a lifetime. Sounds great right?
But hold up a sec – it’s 2024 now, and the travel scene has exploded with options. You might be wondering, Does Interrail still hold its charm in this sea of choices?
Well, guess what? That’s exactly what we’re diving into in this review. We’re gonna break it down and figure out if Interrail is still the cool kid on the block or if there’s some new contender stealing the spotlight. Let’s do this!
Interrail Review
What is Interrail?
Interrail is an incredible way to travel through Europe and make the most of your journey. Picture this, you get yourself an Interrail pass, and suddenly, a whole continent is at your fingertips! No more worrying about booking individual tickets or being tied down to a fixed itinerary. Sounds great right?
For someone who wants to travel Europe but is on a tight budget , Interrail Pass is a great option.
Not just the affordability but also offers you a great flexibility. With an Interrail Pass, you can hop on and off trains like a true adventurer. It’s like having a magic train pass that lets you roam freely across multiple European countries.
Its extensive network of rails in Europe is what makes this special ! It’s like a giant spiderweb connecting various countries and cities, making it super convenient to travel around the continent.
The interrail rail pass program that gives you unlimited access to train travel across 33 European countries which including
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bosnia-Herzegovina
- Bulgaria,
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Great Britain
- Greece
- Hungary
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Montenegro
- Netherlands
- North Macedonia
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Serbia
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Turkey
If you are planning your trip to any of these countries or multiple countries then keep reading.

Interrail Pass Vs Eurail Pass : what’s the difference?
Now let’s clear up the confusion between Interrail and Eurail once and for all! Both of these awesome rail passes are designed to help you explore Europe, but there’s a key difference between them.
They both serve the same purpose but cater to different groups of travelers.
Eurail is designed for non-European residents who want to explore Europe by train
If you’re from the USA, Canada, Australia, or any other non-European country, Eurail is the pass you should get. It also provides unlimited train travel across various European countries.
On the other hand, Interrail Pass is exclusively for European residents, meaning if you live in any European country, you’re eligible for an Interrail pass. It grants you unlimited travel within your home country and other participating European countries. So, if you’re from Europe, this is the one for you!
Both passes offer pretty much the same benefits when it comes to flexibility and convenience. You can hop on and off trains, explore multiple countries, and create your dream itinerary to explore Europe’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and hidden gems by train.
With those differences being cleared let’s dive into what it’s like having an interrail Pass.
Highlights of having an Interrail Pass!!
Picture yourself sitting comfortably on a train, watching the scenic landscapes change outside your window. Whether it’s the rolling hills of Tuscany, the majestic fjords of Norway, or the fairytale castles of Germany, the Interrail Pass allows you to soak in the beauty of Europe at your own pace.
And here’s the best part, you have the power to decide how long you want to explore. You can choose from different pass durations, like one week, two weeks, or even a whole month! It’s like having a customizable adventure menu. You pick the time frame that suits you best, and the Interrail Pass becomes your passport to unforgettable experiences.
Oh, and let’s not forget about the people you’ll meet along the way. Train journeys have a way of bringing travelers together. You might strike up a conversation with a fellow adventurer from another country, share travel tips, or swap stories over a cup of coffee in the dining car. It’s a chance to connect with like-minded souls and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Oh, and did I mention the convenience? Say goodbye to those pesky airport security lines and baggage restrictions. With Interrail, you simply hop on and off at train stations conveniently located in the heart of cities. It’s like having a magic carpet ride that drops you off right where the action is. No stress, just pure convenience.
Types of Interrail passes
There are different types of passes you can choose from, depending on your travel style and preferences.
The most popular one is the Global Pass, which lets you hop on and off trains in multiple countries across Europe for an extended period. You can go from bustling cities to charming countryside villages, all at your own pace.
If you have your heart set on one specific country, the One Country Pass might be your best bet. It’s perfect for diving deep into the culture and beauty of a single destination.
Traveling with Kids ? The Family Pass is the one for you. With it, up to two kids (aged 4 to 11) can travel for free with each adult pass holder. Fun time for the family without breaking the bank !!
What if you are traveling on a schedule?
You’ve got the Continuous Pass, which lets you travel on consecutive days within the validity period. So, if you have a 15-day Continuous Pass, you can pretty much get around for any 15 days within that time frame.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more flexibility, the Flexi Pass is your ticket. It gives you a set number of travel days within a bigger validity period. Let’s say you have a 10-day Flexi Pass valid for two months, you can use those 10 travel days whenever you fancy within those two months.
Remember, some high-speed or overnight trains might need reservations, but most journeys are reservation-free. It’s always a good idea to plan ahead a bit, just to make sure you’re all set.
Discount for Seniors and Youth Passes !!
If you’re a young adventurer, the Youth Pass is designed especially for you. To qualify for this sweet deal, you need to be under 27 years old. With the Youth Pass, you can save some serious euros while embarking on your European journey. It’s perfect for students, backpackers, and young travelers who want to explore the diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes of the continent without breaking the bank.
With the Youth Pass, you can connect with other like-minded travelers, sharing stories and experiences as you traverse the continent together. It’s an excellent opportunity to make new friends from different countries and backgrounds, all brought together by the love of exploration.
Now, let’s not forget our seasoned explorers! The Senior Pass is a fantastic option for those aged 60 and above. It’s all about rewarding the wisdom of experience and the love of adventure that never fades with age. With the Senior Pass, you can enjoy the same benefits as the standard Interrail pass but at a discounted rate, making train travel a more affordable and comfortable option for seniors.
As for the Senior Pass, it allows you to travel at a pace that suits you best. Take your time in each destination, immerse yourself in the local culture, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. After all, travel isn’t just about ticking off landmarks; it’s about savoring every moment along the way.
Whether you’re young, young-at-heart, or somewhere in between, these discounts help make your European adventure even more unforgettable. Imagine hopping on and off trains, discovering new places, meeting fellow travelers, and creating memories that will last a lifetime – all at a discounted price
Is Interrail recommended for all the European countries ?
However before you book an Interrail Pass keep a few things to keep in mind Some trains might require seat reservations, especially high-speed or overnight ones.
It’s a good idea to plan ahead and secure your spot, so you can travel comfortably without any surprises. Also, popular routes and destinations can get busy, especially during peak travel seasons, so it’s wise to check the schedules and make any necessary reservations in advance.
Here’s what a reddit user @Oto_valek had to say about Interrail
For Interrail, best value for money is in the countries, where trains are expensive, and reservations in long distance trains are either not compulsory or cheap – i.e. Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Netherlands.
In Luxembourg, all trains are free for all (in the 2nd class) – no need for Interrrail there :)
In eastern Europe, regular train tickets are fairly cheap and unless you spent many hours every day on train, local tickets are probably a cheaper option.
And in countries like France or Spain, almost every long distance train requires a reservation which is often expensive.
It seems that interrail may not be suitable for all European countries , there are certain pros and cons depending on the countries you plan to visit.
It is important to consider a few factors that can impact your experience.
Seems that Interrail Passes are beneficial to travel to popular destinations across Europe like France, Italy, Spain, and Germany because these countries usually have excellent train networks with frequent connections, making them ideal for Interrail travel. So if you’re planning to explore these countries, an Interrail Pass can be a great choice.
However, it’s worth noting that the coverage may not be equal for all European countries. Some smaller or more remote countries may have limited train services or may not be included in the Interrail Pass. So if you have your heart set on visiting specific countries that aren’t covered, you might need to consider alternative travel options.
It also could be that in some countries, train services may be less frequent or slower. So, it’s a good idea to do some research on the train networks and schedules of the countries you plan to visit.
You might have heard about hidden costs , what’s the deal with that?
Reservation requirements can also vary across countries. While the Interrail Pass covers the base fare for most trains, some high-speed or international trains may require additional seat reservations, which can come with extra costs.
For instance you might have to pay an extra fee for reserved seats or couchette beds on fast regional trains and sleeper trains. The reason is that these reservations cannot be bought online, instead you have to purchase them at the train station.
Which can lead you to a hefty price since reservations at the station are usually higher than the prices available on the interrail website.
What are some of the complaints people have with Interrail
While the Interrail Pass remains a favored travel option, it’s not without its share of challenges. Let’s dive into some key factors that tend to pose issues for travelers.
1. Delayed Customer Service
Some folks have not been too pleased with Interrail’s customer service. They say it’s been slow and unresponsive. Picture this: waiting for weeks, even months, to hear back about your questions or issues. Talk about a patience tester!
2. Refunds and Exchange Issues:
Now, onto refunds. The policy isn’t exactly the friendliest. You can only score a refund for passes that haven’t been activated yet. And even if you do meet that criteria, they’ll only give you back 85%. Not the most flexible deal in town, huh?
3. Reservations Hassles
Hold on tight for this one – certain overnight trains want you to reserve seats. Sounds alright, until you realize these reservations can be pricey and tough to book. Imagine planning your journey only to find out the reservation you need is harder to secure than a golden ticket!
4. Peak Season Pains
When the travel fever is at its peak, guess what? Some trains wave a “No Entry” sign for Interrail pass holders. Yup, not all trains are fair game, especially during the busiest times. If your adventure plans sync up with peak season, you might hit a snag.
5. Tech Troubles
Ever heard the saying “glitches happen”? Well, they sure do, even with Interrail passes. There’ve been reports of these passes going haywire due to technical issues. Imagine relying on your pass and it suddenly goes MIA. Not the best scenario, right?
With all the drawbacks considered, let’s not overlook what makes train travel an excellent choice.
What are the advantages of traveling by train?
If hopping on trains is your thing, here’s why you’re making a wise decision.
First off, you’ve got those scenic views. I mean, imagine gazing out of the window and seeing breathtaking landscapes unfold right in front of you. Rolling hills, charming villages, and mountains – all part of the package.
If you are all about the comfort then Trains usually have more legroom and comfy seats compared to cramped planes. Plus, you can actually walk around, stretch, and even grab a bite in the dining cars. It’s like a mobile relaxation zone.
With Trains stations being in the middle of the action, right in the heart of the city. No more long and expensive transfers to and from airports – you’re practically dropped off where the action is.
No more sweating about those pesky baggage fees. You can usually bring your luggage without having to pay extra. That’s a relief for the wallet.
If you are someone who prefers enjoying and relaxing the process of traveling, the gentle rocking of the train can be super soothing – it’s the perfect setting for a quick nap or just chilling out with your favorite book or tunes. While staying connected is a breeze with trains offering Wi-Fi on board. You can keep up with your digital life while enjoying the ride.
Now, the planet will thank you for this: trains are pretty environmentally friendly. They produce way fewer emissions compared to planes or cars, so you can feel good about your journey’s impact.
The train tracks might just lead you to an unforgettable adventure. All aboard for an epic travel experience!
Is an Interrail Pass Worth it?
Here’s what reddit user @skifans had to say whether interrail pass was worth it or not
It depends – sometimes yes sometimes no. Usually you are paying extra with interrail to be flexible. It is often the case that buying fixed non-refundable tickets in advance will be cheaper. You could also say that interrail is a lot simpler, especially for areas where tickets cannot be bought online.
Remember also when comparing with Ryanair that you also need to include the costs of checking a bag, and transfers to/from the airport – they often fly to airports a long way from the city centre. Hopefully you’d also consider that the train is more environmentally friendly and I’d argue less stressful & generally nicer.
You don’t have to go all one way or the other of course. Even for train tickets you don’t have to use an interrail pass, you can use a travel day on longer journeys where you need it and buy other tickets on shorter ones where you don’t.
309 usd for the 10 day pass is a special offer price, it is normally 343 usd. Either way I’d say ~30 usd for a travel day is an excellent price and in no way expensive. What sort of trip are you planning and for how long? Few Ryanair flights will be less then that by the time you include transfers, and even less if you need to check in a bag.
The Interrail Pass opens up a world of possibilities, where you can embark on spontaneous adventures and discover the true essence of Europe. It’s all about the freedom to explore, the thrill of the unknown, and the joy of uncovering hidden treasures along the way.
To make the most of your Interrail pass, it’s important to plan your itinerary. Think about the countries and regions you want to visit and how often you’ll be hopping on trains. With a bit of careful planning, you can make the most of your pass and explore multiple destinations within the valid period.
So, grab your backpack, pack your sense of adventure, and let the Interrail Pass be your guide as you embark on a remarkable journey through the heart of Europe. Get ready for breathtaking landscapes, captivating cultures, and memories that will stay with you long after the trip is over. Bon voyage!
Interrail Pass FAQs
1. Are Interrail pass discounts available?
Yes, there are a number of Interrail pass discounts available. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Youth discount: If you’re between 12 and 27 years old, you’re in luck. You can grab a Youth Pass and enjoy a solid 23% price cut from the standard Adult Pass rates.
- Senior discount: Folks who are 60 years old and above also have a reason to smile. With the Senior discount, you’ll get a decent 10% off the regular Adult Pass prices.
- Free travel for kids: It’s a win-win for families. If you’re traveling with kids aged 0 to 11, up to two of them can hop along for free when accompanied by a single adult.
- Group discount: The more, the merrier, and the cheaper! When you and your pals are traveling together, there’s a chance to slash up to 10% off the total pass price.
- Student discount: While there’s no official student-specific discount for Interrail passes, keep an eye out. Some travel agencies extend discounts to students who can show proof of enrollment.
- Seasonal discounts: Timing matters! Off-season travel could mean lower prices for your Interrail pass. So, it might be wise to plan your journey accordingly.
- Promotional discounts: Keep your eyes peeled for promotions. Every now and then, Interrail surprises with special discounts. Look out for these gems on their website or via travel agencies.
2. How far in advance can you buy an Interrail pass?
You can purchase an Interrail pass up to 11 months before your first travel date, though some passes have different advance purchase windows. For example, the Global Pass is available 9 months ahead, and the One Country Pass is available 6 months ahead. Remember to review pass details for blackout dates and age restrictions.
Keep in mind that not all passes follow the 11-month rule. The Global Pass is purchasable 9 months in advance, while the One Country Pass can be bought 6 months ahead. Check pass terms for blackout dates and age limits.
When getting your Interrail pass, note that some trains require seat reservations, incurring a fee. Certain passes offer free reservations and lounge access, varying by pass type and country. Familiarize yourself with pass terms to enjoy these extras.
3. Should you buy a 1st class Interrail pass?
Choosing a 1st class Interrail pass comes down to budget and style:
- Budget: 1st class costs more; go for 2nd class on a tight budget.
- Comfort: 1st class means luxury – spacious seats, amenities like wifi, outlets, and service.
- Itinerary: 1st class suits high-speed or night trains with free reservations.
Deciding is personal. Consider budget, preferences, and plans to choose right.
4. Can UK residents still buy an Interrail pass post-Brexit?
Yes, UK residents can still buy an Interrail pass post-Brexit. In fact, there was a brief period of time when the UK was not part of the Interrail scheme, but this was quickly reversed after public outcry. As of today, UK residents are still eligible to purchase Interrail passes and use them to travel throughout Europe
5. Do you need to reserve seats with an Interrail pass?
Not all trains with an Interrail pass require seat reservations. However, reservations are needed for high-speed, night, tourist-favored, and cross-border trains. To make the most of seat bookings:
- Plan ahead, especially in peak season.
- Flexibility in timing opens affordable choices.
- Slower trains can save reservation costs.
Factors affecting reservation costs include train type, time, day, and season. Booking early, especially in peak times, secures your preferred train seat.
6. Does an Interrail Pass Save You Money?
Interrail passes offer perks like convenience, flexibility, and spontaneity. Yet, the key question is whether it’s financially worth it. Consider if the pass saves money versus separate tickets.
Interrail is cost-effective for extended, off-season, or under 28 travel. However, for short trips or peak season, individual tickets might be cheaper.
7. Are there other ways to travel around Europe apart from the interrail pass?
Beyond Interrail, other European travel options exist. Choices include buses, planes, cars, and hitchhiking – each with pros and cons based on preferences and budget.
Buses are budget-friendly but slower than trains. For speed, planes are an option; budget airlines like Ryanair offer affordability. Renting a car grants freedom for groups, but costs more. Hitchhiking is free but unpredictable and time-consuming.
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