Types of trains in Europe?

Print anything with Printful



European trains are divided into passenger and freight categories, with local and long-distance options. Long-distance trains often cross borders, while local trains serve one country. Some trains offer tours, and there are different classes for passengers. Freight trains are used for transporting products.

Most trains in Europe can generally be classified into two branches: passenger and freight. Within these two branches, there can be a variety of types. Trains can also be distinguished between local trains and long-distance trains. Each European country will usually create more detailed categories for their rail system.
Long-distance passenger trains in Europe typically make journeys lasting at least an hour and sometimes several days. Many of these trains will pass through other countries, making them a popular method of international travel. Eurostar and EuroCity are two types of trains in Europe that provide international destinations. Some types of trains may only run between two countries, such as the Cisalpino AG, which travels between Switzerland and Italy.

Many long-distance passenger trains in Europe are also sleeper trains. These trains provide beds for their passengers and typically run all night. Some of these accommodations may offer private accommodation, but other European sleeping trains have couchette cars. These night trains will group four to six people in compartments with bunk beds. During the day, the bunk compartments have bench seats.

Local passenger trains in Europe usually stay within one country’s borders. Some local rail lines will only serve one city, such as the London Overground or the Paris Metro. These types of trains can provide an essential service for both tourists and locals in large cities with busy and congested roads.

Some trains in Europe offer tours for visitors, with scheduled sightseeing stops and meals provided. These rail lines include the Golden Eagle, the Danube Express and the Royal Scotsman. When traveling on the Venice Simplon, passengers can choose one of the more traditional tours, or “An Architectural Feast,” which focuses on European architecture. While some tourist trains will explore several countries, others will focus on just one country.

Trains in Europe are sometimes divided into different classes, not unlike air travel. Those traveling in luxury trains, or in first class, will usually receive a meal during the journey and other small arrangements to make the journey more comfortable. On the other hand, cash-strapped travelers can usually find cheap train tickets for their budget travel. Some international trains in Europe will offer daily, weekly or monthly passes for travellers.

European trains are also an effective tool for companies that need to transport their products across the country or continent. These trains are called freight trains and can be divided into two main types: unit trains and carousel trains. Unit trains have a starting point and a destination, while the carousel train could pick up and unload cargo at several stops during its journey.




Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN


Skip to content