Railway or Airplane?
This is one section of my Europe travel summary — be sure to check out the full guide!
🚉 Railway
Unforgettable experience
Traveling by train in Europe offers a unique and unforgettable experience, often romanticised by films like "Before Sunrise." It's a great way to explore the continent, providing both efficiency and scenic beauty.
There are two main types of trains to choose from:
high-speed trains and regional trains.
High-speed trains offer rapid transit between major cities. Regional trains connect smaller towns and offer a slower, more scenic journey through the countryside.
Some travellers opt for a train pass to travel throughout Europe.
While this can be a convenient option, it's important to decide based on your specific needs.
Personally, I don't prefer this option as it may not always offer the best value and timing, especially since I don't take spontaneous trips very often.
Use Your Smartphone
Make use of each country’s railway company apps for the most reliable timetables. These apps allow you to buy and save your digital tickets, making the process more convenient and efficient.
Validation!!
It's crucial to understand the ticket validation process, which differs from country to country. Always validate your ticket to avoid fines, even if you've already paid for it. This is an important tip to ensure a smooth journey.
Read my note of an Italian train station to know how it works:
As I visit more places, I'll update this guide and this section. Stay tuned for more tips and insights on traveling by train in Europe.
✈️ Airplane
Flying is fast.
Flying is often the fastest way. It allows you to cover long distances in a fraction of the time it would take by car or train, making it a time-saver for exploring multiple destinations.
Apps are your best friend.
Use smartphone apps to check in, save boarding passes, and keep track of your flight status. This digital approach helps streamline your travel experience and reduces paperwork.
Pack smart to avoid hassle.
Airline regulations are increasingly strict about baggage. To avoid extra fees and hassle, pack efficiently and stick to essential items. A well-organized carry-on can make your travel smoother and quicker.
🧳 Luggage
Luggage safety brings a smooth trip.
It's relatively uncommon for passengers to lose their luggage, but it's still important to take precautions:
- Carry valuable items, documents, and cash with you instead of placing them in checked luggage or storing them in public areas.
- Try to keep your luggage within sight, such as in the overhead racks above your seat or the space next to your seat.
- Equip your suitcase or backpack with locks to increase security.
- Attach clear labels to your luggage with your name and contact information to make it easier to recover if lost.
- Stay aware of your surroundings at stations and on trains to prevent theft.
By staying alert and taking necessary precautions, you can minimize the risk of losing your luggage while traveling by train in Europe.
I strongly recommend packing & travel light.
It has several advantages:
Packing light makes it easier to get around,
whether you're using public transport or moving between locations.
Traveling light also speeds up transitions between destinations.
It simplifies boarding trains, buses, and flights, and reduces the hassle of managing large bags.
Additionally, by packing light, you can avoid these additional fees and save money.
Many low-cost airlines and some train operators charge extra for checked baggage.
With less luggage, you also enjoy greater comfort and convenience.
It’s easier to find what you need and handle your bags without feeling burdened.
Finally, lighter luggage gives you more flexibility
to adjust your plans or take advantage of spontaneous opportunities without being weighed down.
Overall, packing light makes traveling more comfortable, cost-effective, and adaptable.
Last but not least,
Enjoy your time around!
Feel free to check out my other travel experiences! And save my other itineraries and map lists below to book your next trip! 🌹🌹🌹
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