How to experience Luxury Train Travel in Europe - on a Budget
Who says luxury travel has to come with a hefty price tag? When it comes to experiencing the elegance of European train travel, there are ways to enjoy the finer things without the steep cost. Train journeys in Europe offer an unparalleled way to see the continent’s diverse landscapes, and with a little planning, you can enjoy luxurious train experiences on a budget.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to have your cake and eat it too, with tips for luxurious yet affordable train trips, and how to make the most out of your experience.
1. The Night Trains: Luxury Sleepers on a Budget
Overnight train journeys are one of the best ways to experience luxury train travel on a budget in Europe. With night trains, you get two for the price of one—a comfortable place to sleep and a scenic route that transports you across Europe while you rest. The best part? The affordable prices often make overnight trains a great alternative to pricier hotels.
Where to Go:
Paris to Venice on the Thello Night Train: Get a good night’s sleep in a cozy sleeper cabin, and wake up to the breathtaking canals of Venice. With affordable rates for sleeper cabins, this train provides a seamless balance of comfort and luxury.
Vienna to Prague: The Nightjet offers comfortable beds and an affordable journey with high-quality service, all while traveling through Central Europe.
Book in advance for the best deals. You’ll find that booking sleeper cabins early can save you a ton, and you might even score discounts for being flexible with your travel dates.
2. The Scenic Trains: Eye-Popping Views for a Fraction of the Price
For those who love a good view, Europe’s scenic trains offer some of the most luxurious experiences on a budget. Whether you’re rolling through the Swiss Alps or cruising along the Norwegian coast, you’re guaranteed an awe-inspiring journey.
Where to Go:
Bernina Express (Switzerland and Italy): This panoramic train journey takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes Europe has to offer. The best part? You can book a second-class ticket and still get access to those amazing views.
The Rhine Valley Line (Germany): Travel along the Rhine River, with views of vineyards and castles, all for an affordable price in standard class.
Opt for second-class tickets. While first-class offers extra perks, second-class tickets still provide great comfort and the same views, allowing you to travel luxuriously without the higher price tag.
3. Hidden Gem Routes: Luxury on Lesser-Known Journeys
While famous routes like the Orient Express and Glacier Express are well-known for their luxurious offerings, some lesser-known routes provide just as much luxury, often for a fraction of the price.
Where to Go:
Czech Republic’s Train Routes: From Prague to Brno, the Czech Republic offers scenic journeys through historic towns and medieval villages, often with beautiful and modern trains. It's a great option for those looking for a taste of luxury travel without the high cost.
The West Highland Line, Scotland: Known for its majestic views of the Scottish Highlands, this scenic journey offers panoramic windows, excellent service, and a relaxing experience—all at a budget-friendly price.
Check for regional passes. Many European countries offer passes for regional trains that allow unlimited travel for a set number of days, which can save you money if you’re planning to explore several destinations in one area.
4. Time-Saving & Affordable Rail Passes
For the savvy traveler, rail passes are a game changer. With options like the Eurail Pass or Interrail Pass, you can enjoy the luxury of traveling across multiple countries at an affordable rate. These passes give you access to numerous high-speed trains and scenic routes across Europe without the premium price tag.
Where to Go:
Italy: Travel between Rome, Florence, and Venice with a Eurail Pass, exploring cities in style while saving money.
Spain: Use an Interrail Pass to ride the high-speed AVE trains between Madrid and Barcelona, while enjoying comfortable and luxurious service.
Research your train routes and calculate how many trips you'll make to see if a rail pass will save you money. In many cases, rail passes offer access to premium trains at discounted rates, and you’ll save more if you plan ahead.
5. Train Dining: Eat Like Royalty Without the Price Tag
One of the best ways to enjoy luxury train travel is through the gourmet dining cars, but the price of a meal doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. Many European trains offer affordable yet delicious meals that rival top-tier restaurant experiences.
Where to Go:
EuroCity Trains (Germany, Switzerland, Austria): These trains offer outstanding dining options with local, fresh ingredients for affordable prices. On your route through beautiful regions like Bavaria or Lake Geneva, indulge in a delicious meal without spending a fortune.
France’s TGV Lyria: Known for its sleek design and excellent service, TGV Lyria provides gourmet meals in a comfortable setting, even if you opt for second-class tickets.
Order meals in advance when booking your tickets to get better pricing on the gourmet options. Sometimes, you can even find deals on their websites or apps.
Luxury Train Travel is Within Reach
Who says you have to break the bank to experience luxury train travel in Europe? With the right tips and strategies, you can enjoy comfortable, scenic journeys that offer the elegance of first-class travel at a fraction of the price. From overnight sleeper trains to scenic routes with stunning views, there’s no need to spend a fortune to feel like royalty.
