
One of the most sustainable and exciting ways to travel is by train, and Europe, with its extensive and efficient rail network, is the perfect place to embrace this eco-friendly form of transportation.
Whether you’re traveling within a single country or crossing multiple borders, Europe offers numerous opportunities for environmentally friendly travel, especially through the use of Interrail passes.
This article will explore how you can make the most of train travel across Europe while reducing your impact on the planet, offering tips, tricks, and insights into Interrail and other sustainable travel practices.
Why Choose Train Travel in Europe?
In many cases, European trains can take you between cities faster than flying, especially when you factor in time spent getting to and from airports, security checks, and boarding. For instance, the train journey from Paris to Brussels takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes on a high-speed Thalys train, while flying can take 4-5 hours when airport transfers and check-in times are included.
Similarly, the Eurostar connects London to Paris in just over two hours, making train travel faster and greener than flying. Train travel is one of the most environmentally friendly ways to get around Europe. Trains, particularly electric ones, have a much lower carbon footprint compared to cars and planes.
According to the European Environment Agency, trains emit approximately 14 grams of CO₂ per passenger kilometer, compared to cars at 104 grams and planes at 285 grams per passenger kilometer. This makes train travel roughly 20 times more efficient than flying in terms of greenhouse gas emissions.
In addition to fewer emissions, trains are highly energy-efficient, especially on busy routes. For example, high-speed trains like France’s TGV or Germany’s ICE are designed to transport large numbers of passengers with minimal energy consumption.
Tips and Tricks for Environmentally Friendly Train Travel in Europe
Plan Your Route Wisely
One of the key advantages of train travel is the ability to tailor your journey. Europe’s rail network connects cities and regions in a vast web of routes, so you can design a trip that takes you off the beaten path. Opt for regional trains over high-speed lines when possible to minimize energy consumption and enjoy the landscapes that unfold before you.
Use apps like Rome2Rio, Google Maps, or the official Interrail app to map out routes and check timetables in real-time. These tools will help you identify the most efficient and sustainable routes, and also give you an idea of which legs of the journey are the most eco-friendly.
Useful links:
https://www.rome2rio.com/es/tickets/
(Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schienenverkehr_in_Europa#/media/Datei:High_Speed_Railroad_Map_of_Europe.svg)
Prioritize Night Trains for Longer Journeys
Night trains, or sleeper trains, offer a convenient and sustainable way to cover long distances without the need for flights. For instance, trains like the ÖBB Nightjet (operated by Austria’s national rail company) connect cities like Vienna, Munich, and Zurich, allowing you to travel overnight and wake up at your destination, all while significantly reducing your carbon footprint.
Booking night trains can also save you on accommodation costs, making it a budget-friendly as well as environmentally friendly option. Many sleeper trains offer comfortable private cabins or couchettes for a restful journey.
Bring Reusable Items
Traveling sustainably isn’t just about the mode of transport—it’s also about the items you bring along. To minimize waste, pack reusable items like a water bottle, coffee cup, and cutlery. Many European train stations and onboard services offer water refilling stations and cafes where you can use your own cup, reducing the need for single-use plastics.
Bringing your own snacks in reusable containers is also a great way to avoid plastic packaging. In many countries, particularly France, Italy, and Spain, train stations are filled with fresh, local food options like fruit, pastries, and sandwiches that are often sold without excessive packaging. Opt for locally sourced food to support sustainable, regional economies.
Useful links:
https://www.happyturtlecup.com/
https://www.lilligreenshop.de/
Use Digital Tickets to Cut Down on Paper
Many European train services now offer digital ticketing, which means you can store your tickets on your smartphone rather than printing them. This not only reduces paper waste but also ensures that you always have your tickets with you, reducing the chance of losing them.
Take Advantage of Scenic Routes
Train travel is not just a means of transport—it’s also an experience in itself. Europe boasts some of the world’s most scenic train journeys, which can make the trip as enjoyable as the destination. The Bernina Express, which runs between Switzerland and Italy, offers breathtaking views of the Alps, while Norway’s Bergen Railway takes you through stunning fjords and mountains.
Useful links:
https://tickets.rhb.ch/de/pages/bernina-express
https://www.visitnorway.com/plan-your-trip/getting-around/by-train/the-bergen-railway/
Reserve Seats on Popular Routes
If you’re traveling during peak season, particularly in countries with high-speed trains like France, Italy, or Spain, it’s wise to reserve your seat in advance. Booking in advance also reduces the need for last-minute changes that might lead to less sustainable travel options like rental cars or last-minute flights.
Support Local, Eco-Friendly Accommodation
One of the benefits of train travel is the flexibility it provides when it comes to choosing accommodation. Instead of staying in large, international hotel chains, look for eco-friendly accommodations that align with your sustainable travel goals.
Europe has a growing number of green hotels, hostels, and guesthouses that prioritize environmental sustainability by using renewable energy, sourcing local food, and minimizing water usage. Websites like Ecobnb and Green Pearls can help you find eco-friendly accommodations that are certified by organizations like Green Key or the EU Ecolabel.
Useful links:
https://www.greenpearls.com/de/
(Source: https://whitepod.com/de/)
What Is Interrail and Why Should You Consider It?
For those looking to explore Europe by train, the Interrail Pass is an excellent option. Launched in 1972, the Interrail Pass allows European residents (and the Eurail Pass for non-residents) to travel across 33 countries by train on a single pass.
This flexible ticket offers unlimited travel over a set period, from a few days to up to three months. Interrail opens up a world of possibilities for eco-conscious travelers, enabling them to hop between countries and cities without the hassle of airport security or the environmental toll of flying.
Interrail isn’t just about travel; it’s also about convenience. The pass covers major rail operators in Europe, allowing seamless travel across borders. You can board high-speed trains, regional services, and even some ferries, making it easy to reach both major cities and hidden gems.
Interrail also provides a mobile pass option, which allows you to keep your travel documents entirely digital. The app lets you check train schedules, plan routes, and even make reservations directly from your phone.
Useful link:
Conclusion
Traveling by train in Europe is not only an environmentally friendly option, but it also offers a unique and immersive way to explore the continent. With the Interrail pass, you can traverse borders seamlessly, visit a wide array of destinations, and enjoy the scenic beauty that Europe has to offer, all while keeping your carbon footprint low.
By following tips like planning efficient routes, using night trains, reducing waste, and choosing eco-friendly accommodation, you can enhance your travel experience while minimizing your impact on the planet. So, as you plan your next European adventure, consider swapping out flights for train rides and embrace a more sustainable way of exploring the world.