6 Great Reasons to Explore Europe by Train

From eco-friendliness and flexibility to comfort and savings, the European rail network offers a unique travel experience. Discover the hidden treasures of the Old Continent while helping preserve the planet. Ready to embark on an adventure where the journey matters just as much as the destination?

With its diversity of destinations, cultures, and history, Europe is a true playground for enriching travel experiences. Among all available means of transportation, the train stands out for its timeless charm, practicality, and, of course, its eco-friendliness. Whether you’re exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Alps or immersing yourself in the cultural mosaic of Central Europe, train travel offers an unmatched way to experience the richness of the Old Continent.

1. Travel in an eco-friendly way

Choosing to travel by train in Europe means embracing an eco-friendly way to explore the continent. Trains are among the most environmentally friendly modes of transport.

Compared to air travel, trains emit far less greenhouse gases per passenger, helping to significantly reduce your carbon footprint. For a 1,000 km journey, roughly the distance from Paris to Florence or Paris to Berlin, you would emit just 2.4 kg of CO₂e by TGV, compared to 178 kg by plane and 218 kg by car¹.

To continue your journey in an eco-friendly way, choose eco-certified accommodations or those committed to reduce their emissions, such as Teritoria houses, which use Clorofil, the first carbon assessment tool dedicated to the hospitality sector, to measure and reduce their carbon footprint. This commitment is a key criterion in how we select our properties.

2. Travel comfortably

The European rail network is renowned for its density and efficiency. High-speed trains like the Eurostar, Thalys, Thello, and TGV connect major cities in record time, offering a fast and comfortable way to travel long distances.

These trains are generally well equipped with Wi-Fi, power outlets, and dining cars, offering a connected and enjoyable travel experience.

Don’t forget sleeper trains, which have been revamped in recent years. They let you arrive at your destination in the morning after a good night’s sleep, ready to make the most of your first day!

3. Discover the beauty of the landscape

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry once said, “What matters is not the destination, but the journey.” In other words, it’s the journey that counts. One of the most captivating aspects of train travel in Europe is the chance to admire the ever-changing landscapes through the window.

From the West Highland Line, which winds through Scotland’s lochs, mountains, and valleys, to the Bernina Express, which crosses the Swiss and Italian Alps through breathtaking scenery, trains offer a unique perspective on the natural diversity of the continent.

4. Make genuine connections

Trains don’t just connect places, they bring people together. On the European rail network, you can move from a cosmopolitan atmosphere to a more traditional setting in just a few hours.

While airports are typically located near major cities, train travel lets you discover smaller, more authentic towns, and experience the warm hospitality of local hoteliers and restaurateurs. It’s the perfect way to embrace slow tourism.

5. Be flexible

Traveling by train offers a rare kind of flexibility. Unlike flights, trains run more frequently and come with fewer planning constraints, for example, there’s no need to arrive at the station three hours early, as you would at an airport.

This mode of transport also allows you to adjust your itinerary as you go. It makes it easier to give in to the call of adventure, stray from your original plan, and discover hidden gems along the way.

6. Save money

Depending on your destination, train travel can be surprisingly affordable. The German D-Ticket, for example, offers unlimited travel on regional trains across the country for just €49 per month.

For eager explorers, the Interrail Pass is a major advantage. It offers unlimited train travel over a set period, giving you the freedom to visit multiple destinations without worrying about transportation costs. It’s a great option if you want to experience Europe’s diversity by exploring several countries in one trip.

Conclusion

Traveling through Europe by train is more than just getting from point A to point B. It’s an immersive adventure, an exploration of cultures, landscapes, and a way to help protect the planet. While modern technology continues to evolve, the timeless charm of train travel remains unchanged, offering travelers an unforgettable experience with every journey. Climb aboard, relax, and let yourself be carried away by the magic of rail travel.

With special care, Teritoria selects authentic homes that are deeply rooted in their local regions and driven by a passion for hospitality. Meet the people who bring these places to life during your train journey, and enjoy a unique, intimate experience.

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