What is the difference between 1st and 2nd class train travel?
First class is more spacious and quieter with fewer seats per compartment or train car. The seats are larger and sometimes more plush. There is more room for luggage and it will generally be less crowded since most Europeans using the train will travel in second class. Some train systems (such as Scotland) only offer second class.
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Eurail Pass travel bonus: Shipping lines
Eurailpasses are also valid on the shipping lines operated by:
Adriatica di Navigazione and Hellenic Mediterranean between Italy and Greece (Brindisi - Corfu/Igoumenitsa/ Patras or vice versa). However, from June 10 to September 30 inclusive, a US $ 15 high season surcharge must be paid. During July and August, advanced reservation is recommended. Reservation fee: US $ 3 (all year). Special accommodations (airline-type-seats or cabins) as well as port taxes are extra. Before boarding, all passengers must check in at the shipping line pier office. Passengers willing to stop over at Corfu or Igoumenitsa must say so upon delivery of the steamer ticket.
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Train Tip
Reservations are required for all sleeping accommodations on all overnight trains. Reservations are also required for high-speed trains in France (TGV and Thalys), Italy (TAV, formerly the Eurostar Italia), principal trains in Spain/Portugal (AVE and Talgo 200) and most express trains in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe.
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European Rail Passes
