subject: How to discover the best inter-rail routes [print this page] How to discover the best inter-rail routes
Inter-railing between countries has been a popular travel activity for decades, and as trains in many parts of the world become ever faster and more comfortable, they remain a popular form of transport for many types of traveller.
Whether you're backpacking through Europe or want to see the incredible landscape of Asia, inter-railing could be the best option - not to mention cheaper, more environmentally friendly and less stressful than booking flights. If you're departing from the UK, you won't even necessarily have to take a flight to deposit you in foreign countries so you can start your inter-railing adventure, as the Eurotunnel connects the British mainland to the numerous rail networks of Europe and beyond.
If you're planning on visiting a small number of countries on your European trip, booking tickets online or at the station could be the best option. However, if you're hoping to see more of the world during your vacation, you could find it more affordable to buy an inter-railing pass that offers unlimited travel in many countries for fixed duration, typically several months.
You should check whether all the countries you're planning to visit are covered by your inter-rail pass though, as you may need to supplement it with regular tickets. This is especially the case if you're thinking of travelling across Great Britain, as these journeys will not be covered.
There are many classic inter-rail routes that have serviced thousands of travellers across Europe, but the choice will depend on what you hope to experience on your trip. If you're eager to see the mighty Alps, travelling on the borders of Switzerland, Italy and France could be a gateway to remarkable scenery, while heading into the interior of these countries can be a great way to see the locals going about their daily lives in small villages and big cities alike. Italy is a popular country for inter-railing, with scenic routes through the Tuscan countryside and around the Amalfi coast being among the most beautiful in the continent.
Inter-railing can help your money go further on a European break, and by taking out cheap travel insurance you can be covered in the event of cancellations or delays, so you can enjoy your travels with less stress. You'll likely find great variance between countries in the speed, quality and service of trains, which can help you build a bigger picture of this diverse and fascinating continent.
