i understand some trips require reservations... 5 travelers have eurorail select passes (5 country france,benelux,germany,switzerland and italy). we have decided on routes between various cities and specific trains we would like to ride. is it possible to make reservations before we arrive in europe? we have about 10 trips over a one month period; some trains do require a reservation but i have not been able to figure out how to make reservations online. if it is not possible to make reservations here can one make reservations at the beginning of the trip at the first rail station for each leg of the journey? any ideas on this topic would be appreciated... thanks
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
Yes, you can simply wait until you get to Europe and make your reservations at train stations there. However, if you're taking any night trains, it would be good to get your reservations well in advance because those trains often sell out. With the size of your group, you will have a lot of reservations to make. You can make them from home through Rail Europe, but it will be expensive (higher prices and shipping fees). For one flat fee of $45 you can make them ALL at in-Europe prices by calling Euraide's US office: 941-480-1555. Or call BETS (Budget Europe Travel Service): 800-441-9413. Ask for their free Rail Guide.
Posted by
London
7 posts
I agree with Tim on night trains. But for day trains I would only suggest reserving in France and Italy because the trains here do tend to run more full. In France, the TGV are obligatory to reserve as are the Thalys from Paris to Brussels, Amsterdam and Cologne. You can't reserve on line with a Eurorail pass.
Posted by
OP
st louis, MO, USA
2 posts
thanks for the information from tim and richard. your prompt replies will help with our planning. appreciate the good advice.