The 10 Best Interrail Europe Routes For 2026

Interrailing through Europe is on most travel lovers' bucket lists. With so many countries so close together offering completely diverse cultures, activities, nature and historical sites, travelling through Europe by train is a convenient and comfortable way of seeing as much of Europe's beauty as possible.

From the stunning Swiss Alps and the revolutionary Euro Tunnel to the iconic canals of Amsterdam, an Interrail pass is the best way to take the scenic route to visit Europe's best cities and undiscovered gems — even from the UK. Whether you're after a scenic journey through historic villages or craving the energy of bustling metropolises, an Interrail pass gives you the ultimate flexibility to plan your ideal Interrail route through Europe.

But with so much choice, it can be tough to plan the best Interrail Europe route! Not to worry though — our experts have put together the best Interrail Europe routes for 2026 including:

1. Eastern Europe
2. The Benelux
3. Italy
4. Portugal
5. The Alps
6. Scandinavia
7. The Balkans
8. Paris to Vienna
9. Spain to Portugal
10. Germany and Austria
11. FAQs

Taking the best Interrailing routes through Europe

What is Interrailing in Europe?

Interrailing has been around since 1972, making it more than 50 years of helping travellers explore Europe by rail. What started as a way for young people to travel affordably has grown into a rite of passage for travel lovers wanting to explore Europe on their own terms. Why is Interrail so popular? Because it's a flexible rail pass that lets you hop on and off trains across 33 UK and European countries, all at your own pace.

How much does Interrailing around Europe cost?

The cost depends on the Interrail pass you choose and how long you want to travel. In 2026, a 4-day Flexi Global Pass starts at €212 for under-27s (2nd class) or €330 for adults. A full month of continuous travel costs €522 for adults in 2nd class. The more you travel, the lower the daily cost — a 10-day pass works out at roughly €45 per travel day, compared to €64 per day on a 4-day pass. Check the official Interrail website for the latest prices.

Important: seat reservations on high-speed trains
Your Interrail pass covers the train fare, but most high-speed and night trains require a separate seat reservation at an additional cost. This applies to Eurostar (London–Paris/Brussels), TGV trains in France (€10–€20), Frecciarossa and Frecciargento in Italy (€13), AVE in Spain, and Thalys services (€15–€27). Reservation fees typically range from €3 to €34 depending on the train and route. Regional and local trains across most of Europe don't require reservations — you can just hop on with your pass. Plan ahead for popular routes in peak season, as passholder seats on some trains are quota-limited and can sell out.

1. Eastern Europe: Budapest - Kraków - Prague - Berlin - Warsaw

The rail trip through Budapest - Kraków - Prague - Berlin - Warsaw is a journey into the cultural and historical heart of Eastern Europe, offering unique city vibes and fascinating landmarks at every stop.

In Budapest, unwind in thermal baths or admire the glowing Chain Bridge. Kraków enchants with its medieval old town and poignant history at Auschwitz. Prague's Gothic spires and cobbled streets make it one of Europe's most photogenic cities. Berlin blends edgy creativity with reminders of the Cold War at the Berlin Wall. Finally, Warsaw surprises with a mix of restored historical gems and a vibrant modern culture.

Key information for this Eastern Europe rail trip:

• Which Interrail Pass? Interrail Global Pass (or Eurail Global Pass for non-European residents)
• How long? 10–14 days
• Starting point for UK travellers? London to Berlin via Eurostar and ICE trains

Highlights of this rail journey through Eastern Europe

Why pick the Eastern Europe Interrail route?

• Rich history and culture: From Berlin's WWII landmarks to Kraków's medieval streets, this route covers centuries of European history across five capital cities.
• Architectural variety: Gothic, Baroque, and modernist architecture sit side by side in cities like Prague and Warsaw.
• Budget-friendly travel: A meal in Budapest or Kraków costs roughly €5–€10, and hostel beds average €12–€20 per night — significantly cheaper than Western Europe.

Best months to take this Europe train route

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal for this route. Expect mild weather (15–25°C) and fewer crowds, making it easier to explore cityscapes without the long queues that plague Prague and Budapest in July and August.

Travel times between stops:

• London – Berlin: Eurostar and ICE trains (10–12 hours)
• Berlin – Prague: DB IC train (4 hours)
• Prague – Kraków: EuroCity train (6–7 hours)
• Kraków – Budapest: EuroNight train (9 hours, overnight — saves a hotel night)
• Budapest – Warsaw: EuroCity train (8 hours)

2. The Benelux: Brussels - Antwerp - The Hague - Amsterdam

The Interrail itinerary through the Benelux from the UK is perfect for travellers seeking a mix of history, culture, and urban adventures. Start in Brussels, where you can savour Belgian waffles and beer while wandering the stunning Grand Place. In Antwerp, dive into the city's fashion scene and artistic heritage. The Hague combines beaches, nightlife, and political landmarks. Finally, Amsterdam offers a blend of cosy cafes, canal-side charm, and vibrant nightlife. This route is ideal for discovering the heart of Belgium and the Netherlands.

Travel tip:
Many Dutch cities are easily accessible from Amsterdam (30–45 minutes by train), allowing you to explore even more destinations in the Netherlands. Utrecht, Haarlem and Leiden are all worth a day trip.

Key details for this Interrail itinerary:

• Which Interrail pass? The Interrail Global Pass
• Trip duration: 7–10 days for a relaxed journey through all stops.
• Departure from the UK: Yes, with the first leg via Eurostar from London to Brussels.

What to do during this Interrail trip to the Benelux

Why choose this train route through the Benelux?

• Vibrant cities: Brussels, Antwerp, and Amsterdam are hubs for festivals, art, and nightlife, offering diverse urban experiences.
• Canals and cycling: Discover Amsterdam and The Hague by bike or boat for a different perspective on these cities.
• Short travel times: The longest train ride on this route is 90 minutes (Antwerp to The Hague), so you spend more time exploring and less time in transit.

When is the best time to travel on this route?

The spring and summer months (April to September) are perfect for this itinerary. Enjoy the tulip season in the Netherlands during April or explore the vibrant summer atmosphere across Belgium and the Netherlands.

Practical information for planning this Benelux train route

Here's an overview of the train times between these Interrail Europe destinations:

• London to Brussels: Eurostar (2 hours)
• Brussels to Antwerp: IC train (40 minutes)
• Antwerp to The Hague: IC train (1 hour 30 minutes)
• The Hague to Amsterdam: IC train (40 minutes)
• Amsterdam to London: Eurostar (4 hours)

3. Italy: Milan - Venice - Florence - Rome - Naples

Start your journey in Milan, where fashion, art, and design await. In Venice, wander through canals and cross the iconic Rialto Bridge. Florence beckons with its Renaissance art and architecture, while Rome offers a mix of ancient ruins and vibrant street life. Finally, Naples is your gateway to the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and world-famous pizza.

Key information for this Italian Interrail route:

• Which Interrail Pass? Interrail Global Pass or the Italy One Country Pass for regional flexibility.
• How long? 7–10 days for a relaxed trip through Italy's highlights.
• Starting point for UK travellers? Eurostar from London to Milan via Paris.
• Reservations: Required on all Frecciarossa and Frecciargento trains (€13 per journey). You can avoid reservation fees by using slower Regionale trains on some legs, but journey times will double or triple.

Highlights of this Italy train trip

Why choose this Interrail route through Italy?

• History and culture: Explore the origins of Western civilisation in Rome and Florence, and discover Venice's one-of-a-kind canal city layout.
• World-class food: Naples is where pizza was invented, Florence is home to the bistecca alla fiorentina, and you'll find gelato on practically every corner — budget around €10–€15 for a proper sit-down meal outside tourist zones.
• Fast connections: Italy's Frecciarossa high-speed trains run at up to 300 km/h, making the Florence–Rome leg just 1.5 hours.

Best months to travel

The spring and autumn months (April to June and September to October) are the best for visiting Italy. The weather is pleasant, and you can avoid the high summer temperatures (Rome regularly hits 35°C+ in July) and crowds.

Practical information for planning this train trip

Here's a guide to train travel times across Italy:

• London to Milan: Eurostar to Paris, then TGV to Milan (11–12 hours)
• Milan to Venice: Frecciarossa train (2.5 hours)
• Venice to Florence: Frecciargento train (2 hours)
• Florence to Rome: Frecciarossa or Italo train (1.5 hours)
• Rome to Naples: Frecciarossa train (1 hour)

4. Portugal: Porto - Pinhão - Coimbra - Lisbon - Sintra - Faro - Lagos

Portugal is a favourite among European destinations thanks to its affordability, great weather all year long and stunning nature. This Interrail route through Portugal is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in everything from breathtaking landscapes to impressive architecture and world-renowned cuisine.

Start in Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage city famous for its port wine and riverside views. Then, head to Pinhão, nestled in the heart of the Douro Valley, for scenic vineyards and a taste of the region's wines. Coimbra brings you history and tradition, with one of the oldest universities in Europe (founded in 1290). Lisbon, the capital, enchants with its mix of vibrant nightlife and historic landmarks, while Sintra's ornate palaces are a must-see side trip just 40 minutes away. Finish your journey in Faro and Lagos, where you can relax on golden beaches and explore the rugged Algarve coastline.

Key details for this Portugal Interrail route:

• Which Interrail pass? Interrail Global Pass or the Iberian Pass for travel within Portugal and Spain.
• Trip duration: 10–14 days for a leisurely exploration of Portugal's highlights.
• Starting point for UK travellers? Fly into Porto or Lisbon, then begin your rail journey from there.
• Reservations: Alfa Pendular trains require a reservation (around €5), but regional trains don't.

Highlights of this Interrail Europe route

Why choose this route through Portugal?

• Stunning landscapes: From Porto's riverside views to the golden beaches of Faro and Lagos, this route covers wine country, city skylines and Atlantic coastline in a single trip.
• Rich history and culture: Coimbra and Lisbon offer glimpses into Portugal's seafaring past, while Sintra's 19th-century palaces are among the most elaborate in Europe.
• Gastronomy: Port wine tastings in Porto start from €15, fresh grilled fish along the Algarve coast runs around €8–€12, and pastéis de nata are under €2 everywhere.

When is the best time to travel on this route?

The spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months are ideal for visiting Portugal. Enjoy mild weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of sunshine, especially in cities like Porto and Lisbon.

Practical information for planning this rail route

Here's an overview of train times between destinations:

• Porto to Pinhão: Regional train (2 hours)
• Pinhão to Coimbra: Regional train (3 hours)
• Coimbra to Lisbon: Alfa Pendular (2 hours)
• Lisbon to Sintra: Regional train (40 minutes)
• Lisbon to Faro: Alfa Pendular (3 hours)
• Faro to Lagos: Regional train (2 hours)

5. The Alps: Annecy - Chamonix - Zermatt - Saint Moritz - Munich - Salzburg

The Alps are the perfect destination for an Interrail journey that balances outdoor adventure with cultural stops. This route offers a mix of outdoor activities, alpine scenery, and rich cultural experiences. Starting in France, you'll visit some of the most picturesque mountain towns, followed by:

• Switzerland
• Austria
• Germany

Whether you're into skiing, hiking, or simply soaking in the dramatic scenery, this Interrail route in Europe has something for everyone. We recommend starting your journey in Annecy, a beautiful French town by the lake, then head to Chamonix for views of Mont Blanc and world-class skiing. Zermatt in Switzerland is known for its iconic Matterhorn, while Saint Moritz is a favourite for winter sports and luxury. The journey continues with the vibrant city of Munich in Germany, before wrapping up in Salzburg, Austria, with its musical history and baroque charm.

Key details for this Alps Interrail route:

• Which Interrail pass? Interrail Global Pass. Note that Swiss scenic trains like the Glacier Express require a separate reservation (around CHF 49) and the Interrail pass only covers 50% of some private Swiss railways.
• Trip duration: 10–14 days, depending on your pace and time spent in each location.
• Starting point for UK travellers? Fly into Geneva or Zurich, then start your rail journey from there.

Highlights of this Interrail route

Why choose this Interrail route through the Alps?

• Scenic train rides: The Glacier Express between Zermatt and Saint Moritz is an 8-hour journey across 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels — one of the most famous rail journeys in the world.
• Winter sports: Chamonix, Zermatt, and Saint Moritz are among Europe's top ski resorts, with lift passes starting around €60–€80 per day.
• Cultural contrast: From Salzburg's classical music heritage (Mozart was born here in 1756) to Munich's beer gardens, the cultural stops balance out the mountain scenery.

When is the best time to travel on this route?

The winter months (December to March) are perfect for skiers and Christmas market fans, while spring (April to June) offers stunning alpine landscapes without the winter crowds. Autumn (September to November) is ideal for a more peaceful experience in the mountains.

Practical information for planning this Interrail Europe route

Here's an overview of train times between destinations:

• Annecy to Chamonix: Train and bus (2 hours)
• Chamonix to Zermatt: Train (4 hours)
• Zermatt to Saint Moritz: Glacier Express (8 hours)
• Saint Moritz to Munich: Train (5–6 hours)
• Munich to Salzburg: Train (1.5–2 hours)

6. Scandinavia: Copenhagen - Gothenburg - Stockholm - Oslo - Bergen

For UK travellers seeking a mix of stunning landscapes, historic cities, and Nordic charm, the Scandinavian Interrail route offers a blend of everything this region has to offer. From the charming canals of Copenhagen to the fjords of Bergen, this journey lets you explore some of the most iconic Scandinavian cities, all connected by smooth, scenic train journeys.

Start your Interrail journey in Copenhagen, Denmark's vibrant capital, famous for its culinary scene and world-class design. Next, take a short trip to Gothenburg, Sweden's second-largest city, where the waterfront and lively cultural scene await. From there, head north to Stockholm, spread across 14 islands and home to magnificent museums and architecture. Continue on to Oslo, where you can enjoy the city's modern art scene and its proximity to breathtaking natural landscapes, before finishing in Bergen, a UNESCO World Heritage city nestled between mountains and fjords.

Key details for this Scandinavia route:

• Which Interrail pass? The Interrail Global Pass is perfect for this route, giving you unlimited access to trains across Scandinavia.
• Trip duration: 7–10 days, providing enough time to fully explore each destination and its surroundings.
• Starting point for UK travellers? Fly directly from the UK to Copenhagen or Stockholm to kick off your adventure, or take a connecting flight via other Scandinavian capitals.
• Budget note: Scandinavia is significantly more expensive than Southern or Eastern Europe. Budget around €50–€80 per day for food and accommodation in hostels.

Highlights of this Scandinavia route

Why choose this Scandinavia route?

• Natural beauty: From Stockholm's archipelago to Bergen's dramatic fjords, the scenery is spectacular.
• Distinct city personalities: Copenhagen's design scene, Gothenburg's food culture, Stockholm's 14-island layout, Oslo's proximity to forests and fjords, and Bergen's colourful Bryggen waterfront each offer a different flavour of Scandinavia.
• One of Europe's great train rides: The Oslo to Bergen line covers 500 km through mountain plateaus and tunnels, peaking at 1,237 metres above sea level — bring a camera.

When is the best time to travel on this route?

The best time to visit Scandinavia is during summer (June to August), when the weather is mild and you get up to 18 hours of daylight. If you prefer fewer tourists and a quieter experience, the spring or autumn months (April to May, September to October) are also great — though be prepared for cooler temperatures.

Practical information for planning this Scandinavia route

Here's a quick guide to the train connections between cities:

• Copenhagen to Gothenburg: SJ trains (3.5 hours)
• Gothenburg to Stockholm: SJ high-speed train (3 hours)
• Stockholm to Oslo: Vy train (6 hours)
• Oslo to Bergen: Vy scenic train (6.5 hours)

7. The Balkans: Divaca - Pula - Zagreb - Sarajevo - Mostar - Dubrovnik

To see another side of Europe, consider an Interrail journey through the Balkans. This route takes you through Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Slovenia, offering coastal views, ancient cities, and historical monuments. From underrated Pula to historic Dubrovnik, this is an ideal trip for travellers looking for something away from the usual tourist trail.

Starting in the Slovenian town of Divaca, home to incredible limestone caves, you'll travel south through Pula, known for its Roman amphitheatre (one of the best-preserved in the world), before continuing to Zagreb, Croatia's vibrant capital. Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, will immerse you in its diverse heritage and history, followed by Mostar with its iconic Ottoman-era bridge. The route culminates in Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where medieval walls meet the Adriatic coastline.

Key details for this Balkans train itinerary:

• Trip duration: 7–10 days, depending on your travel pace and how much time you want to spend in each city.
• Starting point for UK travellers? Fly into Trieste, Italy, or Zagreb, Croatia, to start your Interrail journey from the Balkans.
• Good to know: The Interrail pass is valid in Croatia, Slovenia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, but some connections (like Mostar to Dubrovnik) require a bus segment as there's no direct train.

Highlights of this Interrail route

Why choose this train route through the Balkans?

• Rich history: The Balkans cover centuries of history — from Roman ruins in Pula to Ottoman-era architecture in Sarajevo and medieval fortresses in Dubrovnik.
• Dramatic scenery: The limestone caves of Slovenia, the emerald Neretva River in Mostar, and the Adriatic coastline in Croatia offer landscapes you won't find on the typical Western Europe circuit.
• Great value: A beer in Sarajevo costs around €1.50, a full meal in Zagreb around €8–€10. Dubrovnik is the exception — expect Western European prices there.

When is the best time to travel on this Interrail Europe route?

The summer months (June to August) offer warm weather and plenty of sunshine, ideal for coastal towns like Dubrovnik. If you prefer a quieter experience and lower accommodation prices, late spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October) is a great time to take the train through the Balkans.

Practical information for planning this itinerary

Here's a quick guide to the connections between cities:

• Divaca to Pula: Train (2.5–3 hours)
• Pula to Zagreb: Train (3.5–4 hours)
• Zagreb to Sarajevo: Train (6–7 hours)
• Sarajevo to Mostar: Train (2.5 hours)
• Mostar to Dubrovnik: Bus (4–5 hours — no direct train on this leg)

8. Paris to Vienna: Paris - Amsterdam - Berlin - Prague - Budapest - Vienna

For UK travellers wanting a capital cities marathon, this Interrail route from Paris to Vienna takes you through six of Europe's most captivating capitals in one trip. From the romance of Paris to the classical elegance of Vienna, this route promises history, art, and plenty of photo-worthy moments along the way.

Your route begins in the City of Lights, Paris, where you can visit world-renowned landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. Next, head to Amsterdam, with its picturesque canals and world-class museums. Berlin, a city steeped in history, follows, where you can explore the remnants of the Berlin Wall and vibrant cultural districts. Then, travel to Prague, with its medieval streets and ancient castle, before continuing to Budapest, known for its architecture and thermal baths. The final stop is Vienna, a city of imperial palaces, classical music, and the charm of its coffee houses.

Key details for this Paris to Vienna Interrail route:

• Which Interrail pass? The Interrail Global Pass is perfect for this route, offering unlimited travel across all six countries.
• Trip duration: 10–14 days, depending on how much time you want to spend in each city and your travel preferences.
• Starting point for UK travellers? Take the Eurostar from London to Paris to begin your adventure.

Highlights of this Interrail route

Why choose this Interrail route from Paris to Vienna?

• Iconic landmarks: Visit some of Europe's most famous landmarks, from the Eiffel Tower in Paris to Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna.
• Cultural variety: Six countries, six languages, six different culinary traditions — this route covers more ground culturally than most month-long trips.
• Well-connected by rail: The Interrail pass makes travel between cities easy and efficient, with no leg longer than 7 hours.

When is the best time to travel on this route?

The spring and autumn months (April to June and September to October) are ideal for this route, as the weather is pleasant, and the cities are less crowded compared to peak summer. This makes sightseeing more enjoyable and affordable.

Practical information for planning this Interrail route

Here's a quick guide to the train connections between cities:

• Paris to Amsterdam: Thalys train (3.5 hours)
• Amsterdam to Berlin: ICE train (6–7 hours)
• Berlin to Prague: EC train (4.5–5 hours)
• Prague to Budapest: EC train (7 hours)
• Budapest to Vienna: Railjet train (2.5–3 hours)

9. Spain to Portugal: Granada - Cadiz - Seville - Faro - Lisbon - Coimbra - Porto

For UK travellers looking to explore the best of southern Spain and Portugal, this journey through Andalusia and the Iberian Peninsula offers a compelling mix of culture, history, and coastal scenery. With high-speed trains connecting key cities in Spain and reliable regional services in Portugal, this route is ideal for those who want to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Andalusia before crossing into Portugal's heartland.

Starting in the historic city of Granada, home to the Alhambra Palace, this route takes you along the coast to Cadiz, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Western Europe (founded around 1100 BC), where you can soak up the sun and enjoy fresh seafood. Next, Seville, with its iconic architecture and flamenco traditions, is a must-visit before crossing into Portugal. From Seville, you'll take a direct bus to Faro (there's no train connection between the two cities), where the Algarve's picturesque beaches and quaint old town await. From there, Lisbon's vibrant streets and historic neighbourhoods are a 3-hour train ride north, followed by Coimbra, a city brimming with university history, and finally Porto, famous for its port wine and charming riverside views.

Key details for this Spain to Portugal route:

• Which Interrail pass? The Interrail Global Pass is perfect for this route, offering flexibility across Spain and Portugal.
• Trip duration: 7–10 days, allowing for time to explore each city's top attractions.
• Starting point for UK travellers? Take a flight to Granada, Seville, or Lisbon to begin your journey, or travel from London via high-speed train and ferry.
• Reservations: Required on Spanish AVE high-speed trains and recommended on Portugal's Alfa Pendular.

Highlights of this Spain to Portugal route

Why choose this Spain to Portugal route?

• Scenic coastal views: Enjoy the Mediterranean coast in Spain and the Atlantic beaches of the Algarve in Portugal.
• Cultural highlights: Explore Spain's architectural gems, such as Seville's Alcazar, and Portugal's UNESCO sites like the Belém Tower.
• Affordable Iberian travel: Both Spain and Portugal offer excellent value compared to Northern Europe — expect to spend €30–€50 per day on food and budget accommodation outside Lisbon.

When is the best time to travel on this route?

For the best weather, plan your trip during spring or autumn (April to June or September to October). Seville and Granada regularly exceed 40°C in July and August, making spring and autumn much more comfortable for sightseeing.

Practical information for planning this Spain to Portugal route

Here's a quick guide to the connections between cities:

• Granada to Cadiz: Renfe train (4 hours)
• Cadiz to Seville: Renfe train (1.5 hours)
• Seville to Faro: Direct bus, ALSA or FlixBus (2.5–3 hours) — there is no direct train between Seville and Faro
• Faro to Lisbon: Comboios de Portugal / Alfa Pendular (2.5–3 hours)
• Lisbon to Coimbra: Comboios de Portugal (2 hours)
• Coimbra to Porto: Comboios de Portugal (1.5 hours)

10. Germany and Austria: Berlin - Munich - Salzburg - Vienna - Innsbruck

For UK travellers keen to immerse themselves in the culture, history, and alpine beauty of Central Europe, the Germany and Austria route is hard to beat. This European Interrail route connects Germany's best cities with Austria's imperial and mountain regions, offering a blend of rich history, modern attractions, and stunning landscapes.

The adventure kicks off in Berlin, where the juxtaposition of history and modernity is seen in the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall Memorial. From there, head south to Munich, home of Bavarian traditions, the Hofbräuhaus, and the annual Oktoberfest celebrations. Cross into Austria to visit Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for "The Sound of Music." Next, Vienna's imperial palaces and classical music venues await, followed by Innsbruck, nestled in the Tyrolean Alps, offering a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences.

Key details for this Germany and Austria route:

• Which Interrail pass? The Interrail Global Pass is ideal for this trip, allowing unlimited travel through Germany and Austria.
• Trip duration: 7–10 days, giving you time to fully enjoy each city and its surroundings.
• Starting point for UK travellers? Fly from the UK to Berlin, Munich, or Vienna to begin your adventure, or travel from London via Eurostar and connecting trains.
• Reservation bonus: Germany and Austria are among the most Interrail-friendly countries in Europe — ICE and Railjet trains don't require compulsory reservations (though a €3–€5 optional reservation is sensible on busy routes).

Highlights of this Germany and Austria route

Why choose this Germany and Austria route?

• Rich history and culture: From Berlin's modern landmarks to Vienna's classical music legacy, this route covers over a thousand years of Central European history.
• Alpine access: Innsbruck and Salzburg sit right in the Alps, with options for hiking, skiing, or simply enjoying the mountain panorama from a café terrace.
• Hassle-free rail travel: German ICE and Austrian Railjet trains accept Interrail passes without mandatory reservations — just hop on and find a seat.

When is the best time to travel on this route?

The spring and autumn months (April to June, September to October) are ideal for exploring this route, offering pleasant weather and fewer tourists compared to summer. If you time it right, you'll catch Vienna's spring wine festivals or Munich's Oktoberfest (late September to early October).

Practical information for planning this Germany and Austria route

Here's a quick guide to the train connections between cities:

• Berlin to Munich: ICE train (4–5 hours)
• Munich to Salzburg: EuroCity (1.5–2 hours)
• Salzburg to Vienna: Railjet (2.5 hours)
• Vienna to Innsbruck: Railjet (4 hours)

FAQs: Which Interrail Europe route will you take?

So you see, Interrailing in Europe isn't as daunting as you might think — and the routes above cover everything from budget-friendly Eastern Europe to the dramatic Alps. Just pack your bag, grab your Interrail pass and take a flight (or the Eurostar) to one of Europe's main train stations to head off on your European adventure. Just don't forget your passport!

How long do you need to go Interrailing in Europe?

You can take an Interrail trip for as little as a few days or up to three months with a continuous pass. Most travellers find that 10–14 days is a good starting point for covering 3–5 countries without feeling rushed. The longer your trip, the lower your daily pass cost — a month-long pass works out at roughly €17 per day for under-27s.

Can you Interrail from the UK to Europe?

Yes — the Eurostar from London St Pancras gets you to Paris in 2 hours 15 minutes or Brussels in 2 hours. From there, your Interrail trip through Europe can begin. Your Interrail pass covers two journeys in your home country (one outbound, one inbound), which can include the UK rail trip to London St Pancras.

How to plan Interrailing in Europe?

Start by picking your must-see destinations and check the train routes between them using the Interrail Rail Planner app. Map out which trains need reservations and book those early, especially for Eurostar, TGV, and Frecciarossa services. Leave some flexibility in your schedule — some of the best Interrail moments happen when you decide to stay an extra day somewhere or hop off at an unplanned stop.

How to book seat reservations on the train with Europe Interrail?

You can book seat reservations through the Interrail website, the Rail Planner app, or directly at train stations. Some operators (like Trenitalia and SNCF) also let you book passholder reservations on their own websites. For popular high-speed routes in summer, booking 1–2 months ahead is advisable, as passholder seat quotas can sell out.

Is Interrailing in Europe safe?

Yes, Europe is generally very safe for train travellers. Just follow the usual safety precautions — keep your valuables secure, use luggage locks on overnight trains, and stay aware of your surroundings. Be particularly careful when falling asleep on trains, as pickpockets are unfortunately common in larger stations like Barcelona Sants, Paris Gare du Nord, and London St Pancras.

How to buy an Interrail gift card for your favourite traveller

Do you know someone who's planning a gap year, an end-of-term trip or just a European getaway? Then why not buy them a train gift certificate that can be redeemed on:

• Interrail Passes
• Global Passes
• One Country Passes
• Regular train tickets

It offers flexible train travel to over 25,000 European and UK destinations, 2-year validity and tickets with the best rail networks like the Caledonian Sleeper, Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn and LNER. It's a particularly great travel gift for those who prefer to travel more sustainably or visit places hard to reach by plane. You can even add your own photo and write a message to add an extra special touch to their train gift voucher.