If you have a European trip marked up on your calendar and have done some research, you must have surely heard frequent chants of Eurail and Interrail across the internet. You would have possibly wondered what they are, how they are different, and how they apply to you. Let’s get right to it.
Eurail and Interrail Passes - What are they?
Eurail and Interrail are train passes that help tourists access and navigate the various train routes in Europe. With these passes, you can basically board any train in Europe without the hassle of getting individual tickets. The passes are valid in 33 European countries. They differ only in one aspect, that is, they cater to tourists with different residencies.
Eurail vs Interrail: Which pass to choose?
The pricing for both Eurail and Interrail Passes is identical. The choice between Interrail and Eurail Passes depends on residency.
- Interrail Pass: For European residents Learn more about Interrail Passes
- Eurail Pass: Designed for non-European residents Learn more about Eurail Passes
Consider your residency to unlock the best pass for your European adventure.
Pass Type | Eligibility | Pass Variants | Class of Travel |
Eurail Pass | For non-European residents. | Flexi & Continuous Passes | First-class/Second-class |
Interrail Pass | For European residents. | Flexi & Continuous Passes | First-class/Second-class |
- What is a Eurail/Interrail Flexi Pass? After deciding to buy Eurail or Interrail Pass, you will have a choice between Flexi and Continuous Pass. A Flexi Pass lets you travel in trains for a fixed number of random days within a time period. As the name suggests, it offers flexibility to your plans, as the travel days needn’t be consecutive.
- What is a Eurail/Interrail Continuous Pass? A Eurail/Interrail Continuous Pass offers continuous travel in trains. Say, you have a 15-day Continuous Pass, you can access unlimited train rides for 15 days straight. This is ideal for travelers who are on constant commute in Europe.
What pass should I order if I have dual citizenship or more than one passport?
If you have dual citizenship or more than one passport, the Pass purchase will depend on where you live.
- If you hold both a European passport and a non-European passport, utilize the passport or ID of the country where you currently reside. If your residence is outside of Europe, opt for a Eurail Pass. In case you reside within Europe, choose an Interrail Pass.
- In the scenario where you possess both a European passport and a non-European passport, but your residence is in a different European country, you have the flexibility to travel with either passport or ID. However, your country of residence remains the European country in which you live, so order an Interrail Pass and carry an official residency card or document alongside your passport or ID.
- If you happen to have dual European passports, always select an Interrail Pass. Ensure to use the passport or ID of the country you currently reside in when ordering your Pass.
Frequently asked questions
Choosing Eurail or Interrail Pass primarily depends on your residency. If you are not a citizen of Europe but are an official European resident, you can purchase an Interrail Pass. If you are a non-European citizen and resident, you can choose a Eurail Pass.
You need to carry your Interrail or Eurail Pass and a valid photo ID. If you are a non-EU national, please carry your passport and a valid visa. If you are a resident of Europe, please carry an official European residency card or document as well.
Interrail Pass purchase depends on your country of residence. If you are a European resident, you can purchase an Interrail Pass, even if you aren't a European citizen,
The only difference between a Eurail Pass and an Interrail Pass is the tourists it targets. European residents should purchase an Interrail Pass. Non-European residents should get a Eurail Pass for traveling via trains in Europe.
Eurail/Interrail Pass is valid across 33 European nations like: Austria, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, England, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Scotland, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and Wales.
