Vivanoda is a web platform for planning international train journeys in Europe! Whether you are a travel enthusiast or a regular traveller, Vivanoda is here to help you organise your next train journey across Europe. Travelling by train is not only a convenient and comfortable way to get around, but also allows you to discover new places and have unique experiences. Not to mention the fact that it is one of the most environmentally friendly modes of transport!

Europe is full of incredible destinations accessible by train, and there is a lot to consider when planning your trip. That's why we've gathered all the information you need to plan your next train trip in Europe. Whether you want to book train tickets, discover the best destinations in Europe, learn more about the most popular train routes or find cheap travel deals, you've come to the right place.

Through a network of partners, you will find a lot of information such as timetables, fares or different train routes on Vivanoda. We also provide you with tips for train travel in Europe, as well as practical information on the different railway companies and available train types.

Whether you are an experienced traveller or planning your first train trip in Europe, Vivanoda helps you discover everything you need to know to get the most out of your train journey. Explore our site and start planning your next train adventure across Europe now!

Discover the must-see destinations for train travel in Europe

Europe offers a wide range of destinations accessible by train. Among the most popular countries for train travel are Spain, France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium and the Netherlands. Each of these countries has a unique culture, delicious cuisine and breathtaking scenery. Whether you are looking for cosmopolitan cities, beaches, mountains or historical sites, there is something for everyone in Europe. An exceptionally well-developed rail network makes it easy to travel by train from one country to another and discover the wonders of Europe.

Here you will find all the countries where you can search for a train ticket or a train journey.

United Kingdom
France
Germany
Italy
Spain
Greece
Sweden
Austria
Switzerland
Portugal
Czech Republic
Serbia
Denmark
Poland
Hungary
Belgium
Netherlands
Slovakia
Macedonia
Norway
Monaco
Luxembourg
Find train tickets

Find the main train destinations by country.

Italy
Novara Naples Venice Verona Bologna Genoa Rome Brescia Milan Pavia Alessandria Florence Turin Parma Salerno
United Kingdom
Carstairs Junction St Erth St Germans Aviemore Glasgow Bristol Folkestone Preston Reading Swindon Gravesend London Taunton Bath Motherwell Chippenham Dunblane Dalwhinnie Falkirk Ashford Crewe St Austell Carlisle Exeter Plymouth Dunkeld Watford Kingussie Carrbridge Blair Atholl Pitlochry Bodmin Hayle Redruth Truro Gleneagles Perth Penzance Saltash Newton Abbot Totnes Newtonmore Stirling Par Liskeard Tiverton Camborne Ivybridge Inverness
Switzerland
Zurich Basel
Sweden
Stockholm
Spain
Burgos Madrid Valladolid Barcelona
Netherlands
Utrecht Amsterdam
Luxembourg
Luxembourg City
Hungary
Budapest
Germany
Frankfurt am Main Dusseldorf Duisburg Hamburg Koblenz Munich Hannover Berlin Stuttgart Ulm Dortmund Essen Augsburg Mainz Bonn Cologne Heidelberg Karlsruhe Mannheim
France
Marseille Bordeaux Avignon Toulouse Nice Nimes Paris Lyon Lille Metz Strasbourg
Finland
Helsinki
Denmark
Odense Copenhagen
Belgium
Brussels
Austria
Vienna Innsbruck Linz Salzburg

The main train companies in Europe

Here is an overview of the main train companies in Europe: Dutch Railways NS, Thalys, Eurostar, SNCF, Deutsche Bahn and SNCB. Each of these companies has its own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages. When it comes to travelling by train in Europe, it is important to know them so you can choose the one that suits you best. Whether you are looking for fast travel, international travel or cheap tickets, your Vivanoda train journey planner will help you find the ideal train company for your journey in Europe.

Thalys
Thalys
Thalys specialises in high-speed trains between France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. With modern and comfortable trains, Thalys makes travelling between these neighbouring countries quick and easy. The company not only offers quality on-board services, but also low fares depending on the time of year or week.
Eurostar
Eurostar
Eurostar is the railway company that provides connections between Britain and mainland Europe, including France, Belgium and the Netherlands, via the Channel Tunnel. Eurostar trains are modern and comfortable, with spacious seats and first-class facilities. As well as competitively priced tickets, Eurostar offers flexible travel options and a range of services to make your train journey as pleasant as possible.
SNCF
SNCF
The Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Français (SNCF) is the French national railway company. With modern, comfortable trains on an extensive network, SNCF makes it easy to travel throughout France and neighbouring countries. The company offers attractive fares and season tickets under certain conditions, as well as flexible travel options to meet the needs of all travellers.
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn is Germany's largest railway company and offers a wide range of rail services in Europe, including international travel. The company is known for its extensive rail network, high on-board comfort and punctuality. It offers flexible fares to meet the needs of different types of travellers, whether they are looking for cheap tickets or premium options. International travellers will also appreciate Deutsche Bahn's multilingual services, making booking and travelling easier.
SNCB-NMBS
SNCB-NMBS
The Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Belges (SNCB) is Belgium's main railway company. It offers a comprehensive rail service with regular, express, high-speed and international trains to major European cities. SNCB is known for its efficient and punctual railway network and its commitment to environmental sustainability. The company also offers flexible fares tailored to the needs of both occasional and frequent travellers.
Nederlandse Spoorwegen NS
Nederlandse Spoorwegen NS
Nederlandse Spoorwegen NS is the main railway company in the Netherlands. Thanks to a well-developed railway network, NS trains allow you to travel easily and comfortably across the country and beyond. The company's trains are modern, clean and punctual, and the company offers attractive ticket prices for those who book in advance.
Find train tickets

Why travel by train in Europe?

Trains can be an ideal way to explore different countries and offer an incredible experience when travelling around Europe. The benefits of travelling by train are many.

Firstly, trains are an eco-friendly, economical and efficient way to travel. Modern trains are often equipped with the latest technology and offer a comfortable journey with spacious seats, large windows and sometimes even power sockets and Wi-Fi on board.

Secondly, trains let you enjoy beautiful scenery along the way. Trains pass through a variety of landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to lush green plains, providing a constant spectacle. The panoramic views of the landscape and the ability to move easily from one place to another make the train a popular choice for travellers looking for a unique travel experience.

The train also offers a wide choice of destinations, with regular services to many cities, even the smallest ones. This gives travellers access to lesser-known destinations. The major railway companies in Europe offer fast and regular train connections and flexible ticketing options to customise travel times.

In short, travelling by train in Europe is an experience that has many advantages over other modes of transport. It is an environmentally friendly, comfortable, efficient and flexible way to travel that allows you to discover new horizons and enjoy unique experiences.

How do I buy train tickets?

Buying train tickets may seem complicated, but it is actually quite simple. Travellers have several options for buying train tickets.

  • Compare fares and travel options

    It is important to compare fares and travel options before buying a train ticket. Vivanoda is a train ticket comparison site that can help you find the best fares for your journey. With Vivanoda, you can also compare journey times, connection options and travel classes so you can make an informed decision.

  • Online booking

    Booking online is the easiest and fastest way to buy train tickets. Most train companies we work with offer the option to book tickets online on their websites. Thanks to Vivanoda, after a search on our site, you will be redirected directly to the company's website, where you can buy a ticket in minutes. E-tickets are sent by email and can be printed or downloaded on a smartphone.

  • Buying train tickets at the station

    Travellers can also buy train tickets directly at the station. Train ticket offices are usually open every day, even on weekends and public holidays. Train vendors can help travellers choose the best route and class of travel and buy their ticket. However, this method of ticket sales is becoming less and less popular, and the railways are abolishing it in favour of online sales in many stations;

  • Buying train tickets from authorised resellers

    There are also authorised resellers who sell train tickets for the railways. These resellers can be travel agents, exchange offices and independent ticket sellers.

Find train tickets

Choose the right type of train for you

When planning your train journey in Europe, it is important to know what different types of trains are available to take you from one city to another. Here are the four most common train types in most European countries:

  • Regional trains

    Regional trains are local trains that connect cities and towns in the same region. These trains are generally cheaper than other types of trains, but they can take longer because they make more stops. Regional trains are a good option if you want to explore a specific region or are travelling on a budget.

  • Intercity trains

    Intercity trains connect major cities and are slightly faster than regional trains. They also offer more comfort, with reclining seats and sockets to charge your electronic devices. Intercity trains are a good choice if you want to travel fast but at a reasonable price.

  • High-speed trains

    High-speed trains, such as the TGV in France and the Shinkansen in Japan, are the fastest and most modern trains in operation. They reach speeds of up to 300 km/h and are equipped with comfortable seats and on-board services such as snacks and drinks. High-speed trains are often more expensive than other types of trains, but they are a great option if you want to travel quickly and comfortably between major cities.

  • Night trains

    Night trains are trains that allow you to travel while you sleep, which is convenient as it saves you a night in a hotel. They are equipped with beds and private cabins so you can rest during your journey. Night trains are often used for long journeys. They are therefore an excellent choice if you want to save money on accommodation and maximise your time.

Frequently asked questions about planning a train journey in Europe and booking a train ticket

There are several ways to buy a train ticket: online from Vivanoda and its network of partners, in person at the station, or from authorised sellers. It is recommended to book in advance to get the best fares.

Yes, it is often possible to change or cancel a train ticket, but conditions vary depending on the railway company and the type of ticket you bought. It is important to check the airline's policy before buying your ticket.

Train fares vary depending on a number of factors, including distance travelled, type of train, time of year and time of booking. There are often discounts for children, students and senior citizens. It is advisable to compare fares and travel options at Vivanoda before booking.

Search on Vivanoda for timetables and available routes that we get in real time from the railway companies.

Onboard services vary depending on the type of train and railway company. High-speed trains often offer comfortable seating and catering options, while regional trains may be simpler in terms of amenities. Entertainment on board, such as films and music, also depends on the railway company.

If travelling by night train, it is advisable to check in advance what sleeping facilities are available and pack warm, comfortable clothes. It is also important to check whether meals are included in your ticket.

That depends on the railway company and the specific rules for each train. It is important to check the airline's policy before booking your ticket.

Most railway companies offer services for people with reduced mobility or special needs. We recommend that you inform them of your specific needs before your journey so that they can make the necessary arrangements.

Services available at stations and how to access them vary from country to country. Railway companies' websites and mobile applications can provide information on services available at departure and arrival stations and how to access them.

Train companies often offer special deals and discounts on train tickets. We recommend booking in advance for the best fares. Train travel during off-peak hours can also be cheaper. Finally, use Vivanoda to compare all prices.

Train companies have specific rules for transporting bicycles and large items. It is advisable to check the rules of each railway company before booking your ticket.

Many stations offer catering facilities, such as cafés and restaurants. Trains may also have catering facilities, depending on the type of train and the length of the journey.

Railway companies' websites and mobile apps can also provide real-time information on delays and service disruptions.

Many railway companies offer free or paid Wi-Fi services on trains. Some trains also have power sockets so passengers can work while travelling by train.

None

None
None
None