How to Read Train Schedules in Europe
European trains, both the high-speed modern bullet trains and slower local trains, are regarded as one of the best modes of transportation around the region. Large train stations are stocked with ATMs, ticket booths, tourist and station information, newsstands, hotel reservation offices and luggage lockers. Make good use of the station's resources to orient yourself to your destination as well as to move from place to place. More updated stations have electronic timetables, but some small stations post a paper timetable that is easy to negotiate if you keep a few terms in mind.
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Things You'll Need
- Destination city
- Eurail pass (if desired)
- Reservation
- Desired time of travel
Instructions
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Find the departure timetable for your city, often posted on a yellow paper chart or on an electronic version. Arrival schedules are usually on white. Read from left to right, beginning with the departure time in the far left column.
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2
Identify the kind of train by looking for the train codes next to the rail name to determine which is a regional, local or intercity train and which require reservations. The second column lists these as: ES, EuroStar; IC for Intercity between major cities within a country; EC or EN for Eurocity/EuroNight meaning it crosses an international border; IR for interregional and R for regional or local trains. Find the train number in this column also if you have a specific one you're looking for.
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Look for the kind of seats and amenities the train offers in the third column. This is the "seats available" column, which lists first- and second-class options and sleeper cars. An "R" under this column means you need an advance reservation ticket.
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Locate an intermediate destination city between the main departure point and the arrival point. The names of the en route stops are listed in the fourth column, with the final destination and arrival time listed in the fifth column of the timetable.
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Check in at the station ticket office to make sure you have paid any required extra fees for high-speed trains or reservation fees in addition to your Eurail pass. Ask the ticket agent about any last minute questions or how to reach the platform where your train boards.
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Tips & Warnings
Purchase your tickets the day before you depart at the latest if you are staying in a city for more than a day.
Plan to be at the station at least 30 minutes before the train's estimated departure.
Bring bottled water to drink on European trains--never drink the train water, even to rinse your mouth or toothbrush. It is only for hand washing and not potable for drinking.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/BananaStock/Getty Images
