European Rail Travel

European railway timetables - TGV

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

"Best of the Web"
- Forbes and The Washington Post

Our most popular topics:

Need a car in Europe?

Auto Europe guarantees the lowest rental rates for standard cars, sports cars, SUVs, luxury cars, chauffered sedans, and RVs. Its Web site also has driving information for 38 countries.

If you live outside the EU, a tax-free Renault or Peugeot tourist lease can be cheaper than renting. Minimum driver age is 18, there' s no upper age limit, and rates include insurance. See: Short-term car leasing.

European train

Traveling by train?
Rail Europe has schedules, maps, and guides for 50+ European railroads. (Residents of North and Central America can buy tickets and rail passes online.)

From Europe for Cruisers:

Travel and cruise news:

Europe for Visitors Blog