Interrail FAQs

What is Interrail?

Interrail is the unique and fully flexible way of travelling by train in Europe. With an Interrail Pass you can choose and travel unlimited between 40,000 destinations in 31 European countries.

The Interrail Pass is essentially a train ticket that is valid for multiple days, with access to 37 railways and multiple ferry lines. On the vast majority of the routes you can use your Interrail Pass as the valid ticket, but on certain routes (and especially on night trains) seat reservations are required. Read more about seat reservations here.

NB: The Interrail Pass is also known as the Interrail Global Pass

In what countries are the Interrail Pass valid?

The Interrail Pass is valid in all of the following countries:

Austria, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Turkey.

Where can I get more information about Interrail?

We have covered the essentials on this site, but we also recommend the official Interrail website and Rail Planner App. Also feel free to reach out to us if you have any specific questions you need answers to.

How can I find train timetables and plan a journey?

You can find a detailed overview here - including travel times and seat reservation requirements. You can also download the official Interrail app with all the information you need.

Another great option is the Deutsche Bahn website. Many rail carriers across Europe feed their real-time timetable data into the Deutsche Bahn website, which makes it a great tool for planning Interrail adventures. 

Deutsche Bahn’s timetabling page can build you a timetabled journey, whether it's from London to Palermo or from Edinburgh to Stockholm, and it's a great tool for timetables across Europe. For some areas of Europe, it is also possible to book seat reservations for your Interrail journeys on the Deutsche Bahn website, by selecting “seat only”.

Which railway companies can I travel with?

You can get an overview of all the participating railways and ferry lines here.

What Interrail Pass should I choose?

On each product page we have created a small description to help choose the pass that fits your trip. We offer nine different Interrail Passes (travel in all 33 countries). On this site we only offer the Interrail Global Pass in the Youth and Adult version. If you are travelling in a group with children and/or seniors, please reach out and we will help you.

Check out this guide to find out which Interrail pass you should choose. 

NB: Please note that adults can bring up to two children up to 12 years old for free

What are the different age limits for the different Passes?

Interrail has four different product categories: 

- Children: 4-11 years of age

- Youth: 12-27 years of age

- Adult: 28-59 years of age

- Senior: 60 years of age and over

On this site we only offer the Youth and Adult Passes. However if you are travelling in a group with children up and/or seniors, please contact us and we will make sure to help with your tickets. 

NB: Customers with a Adult Pass can bring up to two children under 12 years old at no extra cost (they still need a ticket though). Youth and Seniors are allowed to buy Adult Passes in order to make use of this offer. Children under 4 years old always travel for free (seat reservations is still needed over the age of 2)

Can everyone get an Interrail Pass?

Yes! Interrail Passes are available for all European citizens in any age group – and both children, youth and seniors get great discounts on the ticket. On this site you can buy the youth and adult passes online, but contact us in case you need passes for children or seniors.

NB: If you are not a European resident, you can travel on the Eurail Pass instead. If you are a European citizen with a valid passport or ID but you reside outside Europe, you can choose between a Eurail or an Interrail Pass.

How do you count “travel days”?

Most Interrail Passes include a fixed set of travel days within a certain time period (e.g. 30 days). A “travel day” is defined as the day you travel until midnight on the same day.

Example: If your first leg is 08:00, then your travel day starts at 08:00 and you can travel until midnight on that day.

Night trains: If your journey starts with a direct non-stop night train, they you only need to log departure time (based on the condition that the train will arrive after midnight). E.g. you get on a train in Berlin at 21:00 and it arrives at 09:00 the next morning - it will only count as one travel day since the train is a direct train without stopovers.

What happens if I lose the ticket or it gets stolen?

As the Interrail Pass is a unique physical ticket, we are not able to reproduce or print another ticket for you – so you will have to buy a new ticket. In case your ticket gets stolen, you should contact the local authorities and follow their instructions. 

Which pass should I choose – continuous or flexi?

Basically, there are two different types of Interrail Passes to consider and it all comes down to what type of traveller you are.

If you travel nearly every day then you should go for the Interrail Pass with a continuous validity, to travel on consecutive days.

In case you are staying at each destination for a few days you should consider the Interrail Pass with flexible validity. Example: Interrail Global Pass - 10 days within 1 month. Flexi days do not need to be consecutive.

Why do you need a “start date” on the Pass?

The start date is the first travel day of your Interrail trip, that will be printed on your ticket. Example: If you have a “5 travel days and 1 month pass” with start date 1^st of August, then it will expire 30^th of August.

What is the difference between 1st and 2nd Class?

Choosing between first and second class not only depends on your budget, but also on the travel experience you're looking for. In general, the difference between 1^st and 2^nd class rail travel is the level of comfort and the facilities provided.

First class:

• Individually adjustable seats
• More room between the seats sideways
• More legroom
• Extra wide tables
• Electric outlet per seat
• Cabin service: menus are served at your seat
• WiFi
  
  

Second class:

• Modern seats in open cars
• Compartments (6 seats)
• Generous luggage racks / luggage compartments
• Multifunctional tables
• Restaurant and bistro car
• One electric outlet per double seat
• WiFi (some cars)
  
  

Please note that all train operators has different configurations and that no 1st Class or 2nd Class ticket in Europe are the same. 

What is the Travel Diary?

The Travel Diary comes along with your ticket and is the document that keeps track of your travel days. Before you board a train or boat, you need to fill out your travel plans for that specific stretch with a black or blue ink pen (no pencils allowed). A traveller who has not filled this out can be fined up to 200 Euros in local currency. 

Can I buy an Interrail One Country Pass at KILROY?

At this time we do not offer the Interrail One Country Pass in our product portfolio.

What are the most popular Interrail Passes?

In general, the most popular Interrail Passes are the Global Pass that gives access to unlimited travel in 33 countries. Of the Global Passes these are the most popular: 

• 15 travel days within 2 months
• 5 travel days within 1 month
• 15 consecutive days

Do you offer discounts on the Passes?

Yes! Youth and seniors gets more than 20% discount on the Interrail Global Passes compared to the regular Adult price. The discounted price is already shown when choosing the pass you need. 

Also, anyone travelling on an Adult Pass can bring up to two kids under the age of 12 for FREE. 

I want to change my start date, is that possible?

No, the physical ticket cannot be changed. However, you are welcome to start your journey within the validity of your pass. For example, with a Pass valid between 25/12 to 25/1, you could start the journey from your country on the 27/1, however, your last day of travel will still be 25/1. 

How do seat reservations work?

We have a full section about seat reservations - take a look here.

Do I HAVE to make seat reservations?

No, but it is strongly advised since some trains and seasons (high season from mid May until September and holiday periods) can be quite busy. You can travel throughout Europe only by regional trains that don´t require seat reservations, but it will take longer and add extra stops to your journey. 

We recommend you to plan ahead and book seat reservations on at least the outbound and inbound dates from your starting destination, lasting two hours or more. 

Can you help me with seat reservations?

We are more than happy to get you started and book your first seat reservations. Please fill out the form at the bottom of the page and we will contact you as soon as possible. Please note that these reservations MUST be booked prior to your departure.

At this stage we are not able to book all of your reservations and/or customise full trip itineraries. 

For other seat and night train reservations please have a look at the seat reservation section for more info or download the Rail Planner App.

Can I receive the seat reservation tickets by email?

Yes and no. In Italy, France, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden, Germany and the Benelux you can order a seat reservation up to only three hours in advance and get it delivered as an e-ticket. You can use the self-service booking system here or by using the Rail Planner App.

For seat reservations in other countries it´s a physical paper ticket, and it is NOT possible to get your seat reservations delivered as an e-ticket. Here you need to book at least 8 business days before your train's departure. When not travelling in high season or on the major routes, buying the seat reservation on the local train station is the easiest and most convenient option. 

How much time in advance should you make seat reservations?

It's possible to book train reservations up to 90 days (and in some cases 60 days) ahead of departure. 

During the summer months we recommend that you make reservations as far in advance as possible. It can also be a good idea to book early in case you travel in a larger group of people and want to sit together.

Why do I have to pay for seat reservations when I already have an Interrail Pass?

Your Interrail Pass provides you with flexible access to all the trains operated by the participating railway companies. As a Pass holder you only need to pay for the seat reservation fee on the specific route, not the full fare ticket. Seat reservations fees vary depending on the country and type of train. 

Where can I find an overview of the different train networks?

You can get an overview here. When you buy an Interrail Pass at KILROY you will also get a offline version of the map to bring on your journey.

I'm planning to travel around one country only, does the Interrail Pass also work here?

If you are only planning on travelling within one country on your journey, say Germany or France, then a One Country Pass would be better suited to you. At this stage, KILROY only offers the Global Passes online, but feel free to reach out to us and we will inform you about the options for One Country Passes.

I want to travel from the UK on the Eurostar, do I have to make a seat reservation?

Once you have purchased your Interrail Pass, you can travel from the UK to continental Europe via London on the Eurostar with your Pass.

Seat Reservations for the Eurostar services between London and continental Europe are mandatory when traveling with the Interrail Pass. Prices for 2nd class reservations start at £25. It is advised to book these trains in advance as they can sell out quickly in popular periods of the year. 

Once you have purchased your Pass, you can book the reservations for Eurostar here.

If you face challenges with desired travel dates due to availability, you could also one of the ferries to travel over to continental Europe at an additional cost, as of 2024 there are no UK-continental Europe ferries included in the pass.

What documents and ID do I need to bring on my trip?

On your journey it's important that you bring your Interrail ticket, Travel Diary and some kind of ID (e.g. passport or driver’s licence) in order to prove the validity of the Pass and country of residence to the train conductor. If you can´t show valid documentation you can risk a fine or be denied travel.

In case you travel on a route where you need a seat reservation, you will also have to show the seat reservation ticket to the conductor as well.

I'm 18 years old and heard I could get the Interrail Pass for free - is this true?

Since 2018 the EU has offered free Interrail Passes to European citizens turning 18 years old in a program called DiscoverEU. However, you must apply for the program and include some guidelines for your journey. Read more about it here.

Can I travel with an Interrail Pass in my home country (country of residence)?

The Interrail Pass is not valid for domestic travel in your home country, but it can be used for border crossings on your way out and home from your first destination. Your trip must be done within the validity of the Pass and within one day.

Example: If you live in Stockholm (Sweden) you can travel to Copenhagen (Denmark) on your Interrail Pass, on the assumption that you cross the border on the same travel day.

Is there an app I can use?

We recommend using the official Rail Planner App - it has all the information you need for a great Interrail experience. 

What should I do if my train gets cancelled?

Go to the local station counter and they’ll provide you with information and guidance in accordance to the European Passenger Rights. 

My Interrail Pass has an incorrect passport number as I got a new passport since I placed my order - what should I do?

In case you have received a new passport since the time of purchase and before your departure, please bring both the old and the new passport on your trip. Your Interrail Pass will be checked with your ID, and in this case both your old and new passport.

How safe are my belongings on the train - are there lockers?

There are no lockers as such, however there is always some room available for your luggage. You should always keep an eye on your luggage and keep items of value close to you, such as on a money belt or under your pillow when you are a sleep on a night train. To reduce theft and offer tighter security, all carriages are locked. For example: if you are on a night train and you are sleeping in a couchette and your friend is in the next carriage, you cannot walk to the next carriage as the door will be locked usually after midnight when the restaurant & café carriage is closed.

How does luggage work on trains?

Unlike airlines, there is generally no size or weight limit for luggage on European trains - or in a handful cases where there technically is, it's in the small print and pretty generous and in practice nobody cares or weighs or measures your bags anyway. We recommend when taking an Interrail adventure in Europe that you use a good sturdy backpack as opposed to suitcases and trolleys.

Are visas required to visit countries included in the Interrail Pass?

Citizens of the United Kingdom with a valid UK passport can travel to 27 European member countries of the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days without having to apply for or obtain a visa for short-term tourism or a business trip. Starting May 2025, British passport holders will have to get an electronic travel authorisation known as ETIAS when visiting countries in the European Union. 

Do night trains have showers and toilets?

Yes. Sometimes sleeper rooms even have en-suite, however of course, at a premium price.  

Do I need to bring a sleeping bag on a night train?

No. For all night trains couchette & sleepers, bed lined is provided for you. Usually in a sleeper carriage the bed linen is already made up for you and in a couchette you must make the bed yourself.

Do all trains have WIFI?

No. However, more and more train operators are rolling out free fast WIFI on long routes. They also have their own entrainment portals with games, tv, magazines, newspapers, in various languages.

Do all trains have air con/fans/ventilation?

Sadly not. However, old trains such as in the Balkans have windows that you can pull down and get a bit of fresh air.

I am in a wheelchair, can I Interrail?

Yes you can! Most western European countries have ramps to enter and exit the train. However, some additional planning should be considered when taking an interrail in a wheelchair but overall it is not a problem. 

I will travel in a few days, can you send the Interrail Pass to me online?

Unfortunately not. The Interrail Pass is a physical ticket that is printed with your personal information that you need to bring with you on your travels. We always strive to send your ticket as quickly as possible, and you will typically receive it within 2-5 working days.

NB: Your travel start date should therefore always be at least 10 days after your pass purchase.

When can I expect my tickets to arrive?

We start processing your order as soon as we have collected your payment. All orders are normally processed within 1-2 working days. All packages will be sent with trackable and fast shipping by PostNord/DHL and you should receive it within 2-5 working days. The package will be delivered to a parcel shop near you and you need to bring ID in order to pick up the package.

I won´t use my seat reservation, can I have it refunded?

In general you can have your seat reservation refunded if;

• The seat reservation ticket was issued by KILROY
• Your individual reservation has a value of more than 25 EUR 
• We receive your refund request by e-mailing us at least 2 working days in advance
• The ticket is stamped "unused" - you do this at the local train station at least one day before departure

The amount we can refund to you depends on the ticket type and local railway company. We will refund the amount directly back to the credit card you used for payment. 

We do not refund potential service fees.

NB: Please note that Eurostar trains do NOT offer refunds.

Why do I have to pay for shipping?

An Interrail Pass is a physical paper ticket that you need to show to the train conductor. Since it´s a value document, we send all packages with tracking by PostNord/DHL, so we make sure you will receive the ticket in a fast and secure manner. The price of shipping depends on our shipping costs, and is always shown on the checkout page.

Can I pick up my Interrail Pass at my local KILROY office?

Unfortunately not at this stage. We issue and send out all tickets from our HQ in Copenhagen, Denmark. 

Can I extend my Interrail pass on the go or upgrade the travel days?

Unfortunately not. Please contact us with your specific question and we will help you in the best way possible.