When and How to Make a Reservation
All reservation holders must be in possession of a valid rail pass or city-to-city ticket that covers the routing of the train they have reserved. Reservations may be made within 60 days of the actual travel date, and it will be helpful to research the train schedules before making a request. Reservations can be made directly at a train station, by emailing us, or using the City to City search. Reservations are required on:
- Sleeping accommodations on all overnight trains, not on day trains
- High-Speed Trains (e.g. Eurostar, TGV, TAV, Thalys)
- Long Distance and Express Trains in Spain, Portugal, Scandinavia and Eastern Europe
- Long Distance and Express Trains during high season (Jul-Aug)
Changing Reservations
Most reservations are non-refundable and non-changeable. The only exception are sleeper train reservations, and only if requests are submitted to the issuing office 3 days prior to the travel date on the ticket.
Seat vs. Sleeper Reservations
- Private cabins include 1-2 berths in 1st class and 2-3 berths in 2nd class.
- Sleeper prices are generally lower in Italy, Scandinavia and Eastern Europe. Prices are higher on certain quality trains such as Hotel trains between France and Spain.
- Couchettes are community cabins and include 6 berths in 2nd class and 4 berths in 1st class if available (mostly in France).
- Most British sleepers and ferry crossing reservations must be made in Britain.