European Rail Travel

TGV trains in a Paris railway station.

Unless you're touring the countryside, trains are the best way to travel around Europe. You can pick and choose from an astonishing variety of trains--from folksy, friendly local trains in rural areas to high-speed TGVs that whisk you between cities at speeds up to 300 km/h (186 mph). Best of all, you'll see Europeans at close range when you travel by train, instead of viewing the backs of their heads through a bug-spattered windshield.

In most European countries, being a train passenger is far more pleasant than it is in the U.S. Stations are centrally located, departures are frequent, and well-maintained railbeds provide a comfortable ride. Many trains have dining cars, and buffet carts serve drinks and snacks to travelers who forgot to buy refreshments in the station. Bottom line: For most travelers, common sense says, "Take the train and leave the driving to Jacques or Jane."

To plan your rail trip in Europe, see the country links at:

Europe Travel Planner: European Railway Timetables 

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From Europe for Cruisers:

• Tour Europe by Ship
• European Cruise Guide 2012
• Costa: Western Mediterranean
• MSC: Eastern Mediterranean
• Holland America: Scandinavia
• More Cruising

Short-term car leases:
cheaper than renting!

Do you live outside the EU? Save on car rental with a tax-free Peugeot 'Buy Back' or Renault Eurodrive tourist lease. Minimum driver age is 18, there's no upper age limit, and rates include full insurance.

For details, see our article on Short-Term Car Leasing.

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