Train reservations: when to make, how to avoid a reservation
For most trains reservations are not necessary. However, reservations are sometimes required - and always highly recommended - for long distance trains, during peak travel periods and if you absolutely must reach your destination on a certain day or at a certain time. You can find out if a train requires a reservation by checking the timetable.
You can make reservations before your trip at the main train stations in your country or during your trip at most international train stations. Please not: not all trains in Europe can be reserved at each station. In some countries reservation facilities may be limited, for example in the UK.
Long-distance trains
To obtain a guaranteed seat or accommodation on a long-distance train, we recommend you to make a reservation. A reservation will ensure that you are booked on a certain train, on a certain day and at a certain time.
On some special trains, like for example the AVE and the Thalys, the number of seats available for InterRail travelers is limited. Also for this reason it's highly recommended to make a reservation in advance.
Supplements
Please note that some trains also require a supplement. In this supplement the reservation fee is included.
Generally speaking, all night trains and long-distance express trains require a reservation, but also some of the Intercity and Eurocity trains. Check the overview of supplements and the page about train types on this website. Extra facilities like reclining seats and berths also require reservations.
How to avoid extra charges or fees?
Although most high-speed trains require reservations and/or supplements, it's often possible to avoid paying these supplements when you research alternative routes! This means that you'll use domestic trains which are slower, but it normally means also that your travel is free from those extra costs.
To find trains which require no reservations, we recommend you follow the following steps:
1. Go to http://reiseauskunft.bahn.de/
2. Enter your place of origin and destination
3. In the field 'means of transport' change 'standard search' to 'local trains only'
4. Uncheck the box 'Prefer fast connections'
5. Click 'go'
6. In the screen with the train connections click on 'details for all' in the lower left corner
7. You will now see all local train connections, which generally speaking require no reservation. If a train still would require a reservation, it will be listed as 'compulsary reservation'.
