Rail Europe: Tips for Family Train Travel Across Europe
So you’re planning that dream European family vacation full of stunning scenery, delicious food, and unforgettable adventures. But traveling with kids can make you second-guess a train-centric trip. Fear not! With a little preparation and know-how, rail travel across Europe with kids in tow can be an absolute breeze. From keeping the young ones entertained on long train rides to finding the most family-friendly accommodations, this guide will be your trusted companion. You’ll discover the best destinations and activities for families, as well as pro tips for smooth travels from station to station. Pretty soon your kids will be train travel pros, eager to hop aboard and embark on the next leg of your epic European family adventure.
Planning Your Family Rail Trip in Europe
When traveling across Europe by train with kids, planning is key. First, decide which countries or cities you want to visit and map out an itinerary. Rail Europe offers several rail passes like the Eurail Global Pass and Select Pass that provide unlimited travel within your chosen countries. These usually need to be purchased in advance.
Booking Seats
For long journeys, book seats in advance to ensure your family can sit together. Some rail lines offer family compartments and cabins which provide more space and privacy. These tend to sell out early, so book as soon as you have your itinerary set.
Pack Entertainment
Bring toys, books, tablets, cards, and games to keep kids engaged during extended train rides. Some lines show family movies and have play areas, but you’ll want to be prepared in case yours does not.
Choose Family-Friendly Accommodations
When booking hotels and rentals, look for kid-friendly amenities like swimming pools, playrooms, and kitchenettes or kitchens. Having the option to cook some of your meals can save money and fussy eaters.
With some planning tailored to families, train travel through Europe can be an adventure your kids will never forget. Spending time together gazing out at stunning scenery while zooming across countries will create lifelong memories. All aboard!
Keeping Kids Entertained on Trains
Books, tablets, and games
Pack some favorite books, and tablets loaded with shows, movies, games, and audiobooks. Puzzle and activity books with mazes, word searches, and coloring pages will keep kids busy for hours. Bring a deck of cards, small toys, and games that don’t require a lot of space.
Snacks
Having snacks on hand is key. Pack kid favorites like granola bars, fruit snacks, crackers and cheese, and trail mix. If your train has a dining car, take breaks to get hot chocolate or other treats.
Get up and move
Long train rides mean sitting still for extended periods. Do jumping jacks, have dance parties in the aisle, or walk laps up and down the train car. Most kids will nap at some point, so scheduled activity breaks will help them sleep better.
Meet your neighbors
Strike up conversations with other families and kids. Play make-believe, have staring contests, or make silly faces at each other. Form connections to help the time pass quickly.
Enjoy the view
Have kids sketch the scenery, take photos out the window, or play I-spy. Compare what you’re seeing to places you’ve been before. Discuss how people live differently in each area. The changing landscape is endlessly entertaining for curious kids.
Keeping children happy on long train rides requires planning and patience. With snacks, entertainment, movement, and social interaction, your family adventure will be memorable for all the right reasons. Before you know it, you’ll be arriving at your destination, ready to explore!
Top Train-Accessible Family Destinations in Europe
Europe is filled with family-friendly destinations easily reached by rail. Some top spots include:
Paris, France
No trip to Europe is complete without visiting the City of Light. In Paris, you can take in the awe-inspiring Eiffel Tower, explore the Louvre museum, and stroll the charming streets of Montmartre. For kids, Paris offers amusement parks, zoos, aquariums, and interactive museums like the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie. With a Paris Visite travel pass, you can ride the Metro, busses, and trams to all the must-see sights.
Rome, Italy
All roads lead to Rome and with good reason. This open-air museum offers ancient history, culture, food, and fun for all ages. Climb the Spanish Steps, toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain, and explore the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Vatican City is also a highlight, where you can tour St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums. For kids, Gladiator School brings history to life with “training” in ancient combat techniques.
London, England
London provides endless entertainment for families, from the pomp and pageantry of the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace to the musical delights of the West End theater district. Must-sees include the Tower of London, Big Ben, the British Museum and Hyde Park. For kids, London offers magical experiences like touring the Harry Potter film studios, visiting Legoland Windsor theme park, or watching acrobatic shows at the London Wonderground.
With rail passes like Eurail and InterRail, it’s easy for families to discover the wonders of Europe by train. These destinations offer interactive activities, child-friendly fare, and accommodation, letting you experience the adventure together as a family.
