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Plus, 25 reasons why the Eurail Pass is the ultimate way to explore Europe.

This month, we’re celebrating a major milestone in European train travel—65 years of the Eurail Pass! That’s over six decades of unforgettable solo journeys, romantic couple getaways, adventurous group trips and countless personalised travel combinations, all made possible by the flexibility of the Eurail Pass. 

What began in 1959 as a groundbreaking pass covering 13 countries has now grown to include 33, making it easier than ever to explore Europe with one convenient pass. With savings of up to 25% off, there’s no better time to lock in your next European adventure. 

What is the Eurail Global Pass?

The Eurail Global Pass is a unique train pass that lets you travel seamlessly across 33 countries in Europe. It covers most trains, including local, regional, night and high-speed services. Keep in mind that certain trains, like scenic routes and night trains, may require a seat reservation.

Continuous vs Flexible Passes

You can choose between a Continuous or a Flexible Pass. A Continuous Pass lets you travel every day within your selected pass period (15 days, 22 days, 1 month, 2 months or 3 months). With a Flexible Pass, you pick a specific number of travel days within a set period (like a month), allowing you to spread out your journeys and travel when it suits you best.

How do travel days work?

When you choose a pass, you’ll decide on the number of travel days you want, such as 4, 7, 15 or more, depending on your travel plans. A travel day allows you to take as many trains as you like within a 24-hour period. You only need to use a travel day on the days you actually travel by train.

25 ways the Eurail Global Pass makes European rail travel unforgettable

1. You can travel to 33 European countries with just one pass.
2. There are over 33,000 destinations that can be reached using the Eurail Global Pass.
3. If you plan to visit multiple cities and countries, the pass is often much more affordable than buying individual tickets.
4. With a pass, you can avoid the price surges that happen when booking last-minute.
5. Cross-border travel is simpler with the pass, making it easier than using separate tickets for each leg of your journey.
6. Build the perfect pass by choosing the type that suits you best, whether you want consecutive travel days or a specific number of travel days. It’s your pass, so be sure to make it best serve you and your plans!
7. The pass can be used on major routes between big cities like Rome to Milan or Paris to Berlin, as well as on trains that reach smaller towns and hidden gems.
8. On any travel day, you can take as many trains as you want.
9. Most trains covered by the pass don’t require reservations, so passholders can hop on and off freely.
10. The Eurail Pass covers both national and international trains.
11. The pass is digital, allowing you to manage all your travels conveniently from your phone.
12. Children under 11 travel for free when accompanied by an adult with a pass.
13. There are discounts available for both youth and senior travelers.
14. You can choose between a 1st-class or 2nd-class pass—1st class for added comfort, and 2nd class for some savings.
15. The pass offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to easily change your schedule or route if you decide to stay longer or adjust your plans.
16. Many popular scenic trains in Europe, like the Bernina Express and the Glacier Express, are included with the pass. Note that some scenic trains may require a seat reservation.
17. The pass also provides discounts on ferries, buses and more.
18. Discounts are also available for museums, hotels, hostels, public transportation, tours and more.
19. Travelling with the pass by train gives you complete flexibility with your luggage—there are no hidden extra fees.
20. The pass covers low, medium and high-speed trains, like France’s TGVs and Italy’s Frecciarossa trains. Note that high-speed trains may require a seat reservation.
21. Most night trains are also included with the Eurail Pass, but keep in mind that these trains typically require a reservation.
22. If you use a night train, you won’t need to use a second travel day for the arrival day. For example, if your train departs at 11 pm on a Friday and arrives at 8 am on Saturday, you’ll only use the travel day for Friday. To make the most of that travel day, consider using the remaining hours on Friday for additional train travel.
23. If you want to avoid trains that require reservations, you can do so in most cases when planning your itinerary using the Rail Planner App.
24. The pass encourages a spirit of adventurous, carefree travel. With the all-inclusive pass, you can focus on what you want to do when you arrive, not how to get there.
25. After purchasing, passholders have 11 months to activate the pass, so you don’t need to have a European trip planned right away—this discount can be the perfect reason to start planning one!

Join the 65th-anniversary celebration and save 25% on all 1st and 2nd class Eurail Global Passes when you book by October 22. You’ll have 11 months from the date of purchase to activate and use your pass. No rush! Whether you're planning a detailed itinerary starting from the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam to the Grand Place in Brussels, continuing to the Louvre in Paris, Zurich’s Old Town, Milan’s Duomo di Milano and ending at Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna—or you prefer to let your journey effortlessly unfold as you go—a Eurail Global Pass is your ticket to unparalleled travel across Europe. Get yours today!

Terms and conditions: During the sales period from 15 to 22 October 2024, all Eurail Global Passes are available at a 25% discount. This offer applies to both 1st and 2nd class passes but excludes the 4 days/1 month and 5 days/1 month options. Passes must be activated within 11 months from the purchase date, following the same rules as regular passes. Refund conditions are in line with standard non-promotional pass policies.

There are moments in life when splurging is the only option, one such moment being a lifetime trip across Italy by train.

Whether for a romantic honeymoon or a bougie city break, let Trenitalia help you arrive right on time and in unparalleled style. 

All aboard Italy’s national railway

Founded in 2000, Trenitalia is the largest train operator in Italy offering high-speed, regional, overnight and international train routes. Known for on-time service and frequent departures that stretch from the toe to the top of the Italian boot, Trenitalia is the top-choice for locals and travellers alike. Travellers who prefer a more leisurely journey choose regional, low-speed trains, while those with a need for speed opt for Trenitalia's popular high-speed trains.

High-speed travel with Trenitalia

There three high-speed services operators by Trenitalia are Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, and Frecciabianca. Each serves different routes and at different speeds. Frecciabianca, Italian for "white arrow," runs at lower speeds, reaches smaller towns and offers basic, but comfortable amenities. Frecciargento, or "silver arrow," runs at higher speeds and connects medium-sized cities, while offering more amenities. Last, and certainly not least, is the the sleekest and swiftest of all: Frecciarossa, or, the "red arrow."

Frecciarossa

Frecciarossa is a testament to Trenitalia’s dedication to improving European rail responsibly. These trains connect major Italian cities including Rome, Milan, Florence and Naples at speeds of up to 300 kilometres. How fast is that? Think of it this way: the speed limit on the largest highways in Italy maxes out at 130 km/h! Few do speed like Frecciarossa, but no one does comfort and elevated travel like Frecciarossa.

There are four classes of service aboard Frecciarossa trains: Executive, Business, Premium and Standard. All classes aboard Frecciarossa trains deliver a super comfortable ride with air conditioning, power outlets and USB plugs at each seat, generous luggage space, screens, Wi-Fi and entertainment services. To ensure that everyone can enjoy Frecciarossa trains, designated spaces are available for passengers travelling in wheelchairs and their companions. Moms and dads can also access baby changing tables throughout the entire ride. If you get hungry along the journey, or just want to stretch your legs, passengers can head to the restaurant car where food and beverage can be purchased.

The Frecciarossa 1000

The gem of the Frecciarossa fleet is the Frecciarossa 1000 with technology so powerful that these beauties can reach speeds of 400 km/h – though they are only allowed to go 300 km/h per hour. Despite the incredible speed, Frecciarossa’s 16 impressive engines hum silently along the whole journey. Onlookers will likely see the flashy red exterior before they hear it.

Accessible green travel

If you think those speeds are impressive, get this! The Frecciarossa 1000 was the first high-speed train given the certification of environmental impact (EPD) thanks to its low CO2 emissions and minimal noise and vibration polution. Did you know that when checking out on Rail Europe, you can see your carbon footprint aboard these trains? 

Let's take a look at an example trip aboard the Frecciarossa 1000 from Florence to Naples. Travelling this route by plane has the individual output of 64.86 kg of CO2 versus 2.45 kg when using the train. By choosing to go by train, you are cutting your environmental impact by 26 times!

A taste of the finer things in life with Frecciarossa

A quicker, quieter, greener ride – what can beat that? The Executive class aboard Frecciarossa trains does. Imagine this. You have a fresh Illy coffee in hand with a bowl of risotto and a bottle of prosecco on its way. You take a sip while taking in the Italian countryside. No, we are not describing an afternoon lunch in a small Italian restaurant; this is a slice of life aboard a Frecciarossa train in the Executive class. Thirsty for more? We hope so, because it’s just getting started.

Comfort and train layout

We ask that you not compare the Frecciarossa Executive class to an airline's first class. Why? Simply put, because the Executive class is better and less expensive. First class on planes typically hold at least 12 seats. The Frecciarossa 1000 Executive carriage holds maximum 8 seats – giving you more leg room than you could really ever need. Kick back and find maximum comfort with the seat control that adjusts the foot and leg rests along with the seat recline. These chairs also swivel and can be moved side to side. Each seat has a stow-away tray table plus extra storage for bags right by your seat.

You will also find a, wait for it, conference room in the Executive class. The conference room has a office table, chairs and a screen. The room can be booked in advance so you don’t miss an important meeting or even a check in with an old friend.

Beverages and local cuisine

In the Executive class, you can enjoy as much food and beverage as you desire. Your ticket covers everything from meals to snacks to alcohol. Passengers can peruse the vast menu of local delicacies to pick and choose from. And do know that this is not your average cuisine. One passenger actually described the food as “almost ‘too nice’ for train food!” Trenitalia's onboard catering is known for its use of fresh, Italian ingredients and offering gluten- and lactose-free options. Plus, as a bonus, their packaging, including boxes and water bottles, is made from recycled materials. 

The carriage staff of friendly attendants is dedicated to making your travels as comfortable and elevated as possible. Not only can you sip on decadent Illy espresso, but it will be prepared and served to you directly at your seat from an espresso machine trolley. Breakfast may feature eggs, croissants, fresh fruit, yogurt and more. Lunch, in Italian fashion, could be pancetta risotto or pasta ragu with an Italian charcuterrie board. The final “chef’s kiss” touch to the experience is the real cutlery and the wines that are included in the ticket price.

Entertainment

The best view is the scenery rolling by, but if you are looking to use your travel time to catch up on shows or listen to music or podcasts, not only does Trenitalia offer high-speed WiFi, but also a free entertainment portal with video games, movies, music and tv shows. 

Flying versus trains: the verdict

Be ready for a blow out with this one. Trains always beat planes because they are greener, they travel directly from one city centre to the next, they offer luggage flexibility, and for domestic travel with Trenitialia, there are no passport or luggage controls. 

But let’s take this comparison to another level. Which is better? Executive class with Frecciarossa or first class air travel. For starters, upgrading to the top class of service on a train is significantly more affordable than on a plane. Take a train ride from Florence to Rome, for example. The most basic ticket with no flexibility on one route was €60. For the same train, the ticket for the Executive class cost €145, including all of the exceptional perks we discussed plus flexibility with exchanges and refunds.

Compare that to a short domestic flight in Italy, where a basic ticket can run somewhere from around €50 to €150, and first classic ticket around €500-€600 or more. That means that the first class option is 10x more expensive than basic travel! If you are going to treat yourself, do it on Frecciarossa. It is more affordable, plus offers more space, better food and impeccable views - all delivering a truly unparalleled travel experience.

The verdict is in! Frecciarossa Executive class blows airline travel out of the water. And, if you want some train industry insight, it also beats nearly all other first class offerings from nearly all other operators in Europe. It has set an entirely new standard for premium travel, making the price well worth it.

Frecciarossa Business Class 

Business class isn’t quite as elevated as Executive, but it still delivers a luxe travel experience. This area boasts reclining leather seats with adjustable headrests in either a 2 or 4 facing seat layout. While you won’t have unlimited treats during the journey, you will be greeted with a complimentary hot or cold drink or a glass of Prosecco plus a snack. An onboard meal also comes with the fare. You will have three menus to choose from, each of which include a main dish, a snack, a dessert and a mini bottle of water served in a meal box. This class also has plenty of room for luggage under or above seats, plus in the designated luggage areas.

During the entire trip, passengers can refer to the numerous screens throughout the carriage with arrival info, weather, speed, maps and more. Each section is separated by frosted glass to offer privacy. If you are looking for an even more peaceful ride, choose to sit in the quiet zone (‘Silenzio’) in Business Class at no extra cost.  

Routes covered by Frecciarossa

The fabulous Frecciarossa fleet serves numerous routes. These consistently stand out as the most travelled and most popular with European and international visitors alike:

• Milan to Florence
• Venice to Rome
• Florence to Rome
• Venice to Florence
• Rome to Naples
• Florence to Naples

You may be prepared for the beauty of these incredible cities, but the train stations alone are pieces of art. Take Milano Centrale Station. With its high ceilings and endless restaurants and shops, prepared to be wowed along the journey.

Booking tickets in Frecciarossa’s Executive class 

Book your tickets up to 6 months in advance aboard Frecciarossa trains in just a few clicks with Rail Europe. If you decide to treat yourself to Executive travel (good for you!), follow these steps:

1. Head to our booking widget.
2. Enter the departure and arrival destination, the date of travel and other essential travel details.
3. Click search.
4. To find the best train for your trip, click on each option, and all train details will appear. 
5. You will see who the provider is (Trenitalia) and the type of train (Frecciarossa 1000 being the newest option).
6. You will automatically be placed in the cheapest ticket available on that train. To view all of the options in the different classes, click on the arrow on the right-hand side.
7. Now you can compare the price and details of each class.
8. Select ‘Executive’ and then “Continue.”
9. On the next screen you will be prompted to select your seat at no extra cost.
10. Finally, enter traveller information, add to basket and continue to pay.

Booking tip: If you do not know the exact station that a Frecciarossa train leaves from, select the city with ‘any station’ after it. For example, if you are travelling from Milan and do not know that the station that Frecciarossa passes through is Milano Centrale Station, you can select ‘Milan (any station)’ and all options in the city of Milan will appear.

Travelling with a pass

Reservations for Frecciarossa high-speed trains are required and can be made directly with Rail Europe. If you wish to ride the luxe, Business class experience on Frecciarossa trains, you do need to have a Eurail or Interrail Pass that is valid for first class trains. You can make your passholder fare seat reservation in Business class with Rail Europe. To sit in the Executive class seating area, you will be required to purchase that seat reservation separately.

Ready for the ride of your life?

This is your sign to treat yourself to a premium ride across Italy aboard Frecciarossa trains. Get more luxe for your bucks aboard the golden standard of luxury train travel. Book now and set yourself up for an unforgettable travel experience that only Frecciarossa could offer.