I’ll only go over a couple of the grahp’s for the Eurail Select Pass and the Eurail Global Pass even though there are so many variations of discounts, savings and passes. Choosing the right Eurail Pass should be well thought out and make sure you factor in any discounts you may be eligible for. Some of those discounts include seniors discounts, student discount and traveling in groups of 2-5. I went last year with my girlfriend and we were able to take advantage of a couples discount on our Global Pass.

Eurail Global Pass:

I wanted to start writing about the various discounts you can get when you buy a eurail pass. This one is for seniors, and that means anyone over the age of 60 can apply for various discounts on different trains throughout Europe. I’ll get this out and the open and say that most of the senior discounts also apply for 1st class travel only. Don’t let that fool you because 1st class travel on the trains is very affordable, and statistics show that 75% of seniors tend to travel 1st class anyway.

How Do You Get The Discount?

When ordering your Eurail Pass you will be prompted about a seniors discount, so make sure to watch out for it on the simple to fill out purcahse form. If you have any questions you can by all means contact Rail Europe and they will assist you in anyway needed when ordering your discounted Eurail Pass.

Click Here To Order Your Discounted Eurail Pass For Seniors

Spain is a country of lush forests, populated beaches and a vibrant nightlife. In these times of high gas prices, riding the train across Spain makes for a cheaper and beautiful trip. Up to 60 million visitors travel to Spain every year to delight in the country’s 315 sunny days and its rich and diverse history and culture. As a result the Spanish government spend millions of Euros per year on the travel and transport infrastructure to service the country’s growing population and its ever growing numbers of visitors.

Spain is also the sight for one of the world’s best art museums, the Prado, where more than 4,000 masterpieces are displayed. Works of various artists, Spanish and foreign are highlighted at the Prado, from Goya, to Velazquez, Caravaggio, Fra Angelico, even Boticelli.

Coastal areas of Spain are famous all across the world. Its powdery sand bed is nothing but captivating. In a lazy ambiance, these serene beaches call everyone for relaxed basking…But, if you are an adventure loving being, you can plunge into hundreds of oceanic exhilaration offered. White water rafting, paddling, diving in azure water, boating and many more adventurous activities are offered for those, who suffer from access of adrenalin shot. Nevertheless, such activities leave your heart pumped but these are most enticing for many tourists, as they plan a trip to Spain just to indulge in such activities.

Switzerland is personally my favorite place in all of Europe and I highly recommend everyone make it a stop at least once in their life. The landscape and people is what draws me back every time, you won’t find any other place like it on earth. You can go from rich cultural urban centers, and within a couple hours be deep in lush forests and mountains. It actually kind of reminds me of it back here home in Vancouver!

Traveling by train through Switzerland is breathtaking to say the least, and it’s also very affordable! I’ve spent many numerous 2 weeks trips around the country and found that it is an ideal amount of time to see a majority of the sites.  You’ll find that the Swiss are some of the friendliest people in Europe and have been known for their hospitality for decades.

It is a small country so you have many options in which Eurail Pass to choose from. Seeing the whole country is doable no matter what time of the year. Take a look at the passes available for Switzerland and make the best decision on which one to get. If you’re coming in with a Eurail Global Pass then make sure to plan your trip out before hand.

Spain is home to one of the most beautful train stations in all of Europe, it’s so nice people come to visit it without ever entering or leaving from a train. This train station is rich in history which includes an older station, the new one and the terrorist attacks that took place here in 2004.  This train station has seen quite the changes over the last century, and has been updated and adapted to the new world’s rapidly changing environment.

The Atocha Train Station was inaugurated on 9 February 1851 under the name Estación de Mediodía. The building sadly fell to a brutal fire back in the late 1800’s, and had to be rebuilt with Iron and other strong materials to weather any further disasters. The design and physical presence of this building takes you back to a time when train travel was the ultimate way to move. If you’ve ever been to Spain, and the rest of Europe, you’ll remember how distinct and unique the architecture in Spain is.

In 1992 the old terminal building was taken out of service and instead of shutting it down completely, turned it into a center full of food and wonderful shops.  The old terminal also features a couple of other fun sights to see, a nightclub for the party goers, and the 4000 m² covered tropical garden. The garden is without a doubt the most impressive attraction in the station and here is a shot of part of it from inside the terminal;

Italy is well known for the amazing architecture as well as the outstanding food.  People from all over the world make their way to Italy as a place to take their vacation.  If you are planning on heading to Milan, Italy I would highly recommend checking out the following tourist attractions.  If you are travelling Europe and are in a bordering country to Italy, hop on the Eurail and pay Milan a visit, you won’t be disappointed.

Teatro alla Scala
Piazza della Scala, Milan, Italy

Teatro alla Scala is a large opera house built in 1776 by Giuseppe Piermarini built on the space of the old Santa Maria dell Scala church.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Piazza della Scala, Milan, Italy
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is an amazing covered double arcade featuring two mamoth glass vaulted arcades at right angles.  The arcade is four stories and features shops, restaurants and cafes.  Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is also the home to big brand luxury name brands such as Prada, Gucci and Louis Vuitton.

Meazza (San Siro) Stadium
Via Piccolomini 5, Milan, Italy

Meazza (San Siro) Stadium is the home for two of the most popular European football (soccer) clubs.  The stadium houses both AC Milan as well as F.C Internazionale Milano.  It is considered to be one of the most famous football (soccer) stadiums in the entire world. The stadium is now technically named ‘Stadio Giueppe Meazza’ in honour of Giuseppe Meazza but still commonly goes by the name ‘San Siro’.

Palazzo Marino
Piazza della Scala, Milan, Italy

The Palazzo Marino is the official Government building for the City of San Marino and doubles as the town hall. The building was created somewhere between 1884 and 1894 by famous architect Frencesco Azurri.

Palazzo della Ragione
Piazza Mercanti, Milan, Italy

The Palazzo della Ragione is a Renaissance town hall which is said to have the largest unsupported roof in all of Europe. The construction of this building commenced in  1172 and finished in 1219.

Cimitero Monumentale (Cemetery)
Piazzale Cimitero Monumentale, Milan, Italy
The Cimitero Monumentale is an extremely large cemetery located in the Cimitero Monumentale square.  The Cemetary was originally opened in 1866 and has since been filled with amazing Italian sculptures.

Palazzo Cusani - Via Brera, Milan, Italy
Palazzo Cusani is a Palace located in the Brera area. The palace was originally built in 1719 but is now used by the Army.

Palazzo Litta
Corso Magenta 24, Milan, Italy
The Palazzo Litta is a large Baroque structure built in the 1640’s.  The building has undergone a number of changes since it was first built but remains to be an amazing tourist attraction and an architectural masterpiece.

Fiera di Milano (Trade Fair)
Largo Domodossola 1, Milan, Italy
Fiera di Milano, also known as FieraMilano is a monumentous large-scale exhibition center located in the town of Rho.  It first opened in 2005 and offers over 345,000 square meters of indoor exhibition space.

Conservatorio di Musica Giuseppe Verdi
Via Conservatorio 12, Milan, Italy
Conservatorio di Musica Giuseppe Verdi otherwise known as the Milan Conservatory is an ancient college of music established in 1807.  Since it creation over 200 years ago, the institute has become the largest musical institute in all of Italy.

Europe is a massive place featuring thousands upon thousands of castles. While this is just a small selection of the castles you may find travelling across Europe, all of these Castles are located in Countries you can get to using the Eurail train system.

Ammersoyen Castle
Built: Around 1350
Location: Netherlands

The Ammersoyen castle is located near the Mass River in the Netherlands.  The castle was  originally built somewhere around 1350 by the Van Herlaer family and has changed ownership many  times. The castle is rectangular shaped and features towers in each of the four corners.  The  castle also is also surrounded by a moat to help fend off sieges.

Boechout Castle
Built: 1100’s
Location: Meise, Belgium

The Boechout Castle, located just nort of Brussels was originally built in the 1100’s.  The oldest piece of the castle that remains is from the 1300s.  The castle has since been rebuilt numerous times and houses a few small art exhibitions.  The castle is now mainly used for  gatherings and conferences.

Duino Castle
Built: 1000AD
Located: Castello di Duino, Italy

This castle site is actually the home to two castles that jutt out into the Gulf of Trieste. The  first castle is name ‘The Old Castle’ and dates back to 1000 AD. Unfortunately, ‘The Old Castle’  is in ruins and is no longer able to be visited.

‘The New Castle’ was built du ring the 1300’s and was built on the ruins of a Roman military  outpost.  The castle was nearly destroyed in the 15th century when it was attacked by the Turks.  In World War II the Germans used the castle and built a bunker in the rocks next to the castle.  Today the bunker is used as a museum.

Hamm Castle
Built: 1052
Location Bitburg, Germany

Hamm Castle was first built in 1052, when it owned by the Counts of Vianden. At the time the Counts of Vianden were the protectors of the Abbey of Prüm. The Prüm stream flows around the castle which is situated on a large ridge.  The castle is still inhabited by it’s owners, but they do offer a holiday suite if you want to head to Bitburg Germany for a vacation.

Auzers Castle
Built: 1470
Location: Village of Auzers, France

Auzers Castle is locally known as Château d’Auzers and has been inhabited by the same family since the 15th century.  All aspects of the original castle are still in tact including the lookout turrets, the rampart walk and the tower.

Heidenreichstein Castle
Built:1190
Location: Village of Heidenreichstein, Lower Austria, Austria

Heidenreichstein is an amazing water castle situated in Heidenreichstein, Austria.  The castle itself has two separate draw bridges and a giant square keep. There are a few towers that are 
still fully intact.  Because of the way the castle is laid out the castle was never over taken and has never been destroyed.  The castle now houses a museum that you can visit to learn more about the castle.

Alcazar of Segovia
Built: 1075AD
Location: Segovia Spain

The Alcazar is more than just a castle, it is a palace.  The castle is located within the walled  city of Segovia in Spain.  Many Spanish kings of lived in this castle due to its amazingly beautiful exterior.  In 1862 this beautiful castle fell victim to a devastating fire however it was promptly rebuilt in 1882 using sketches of the original interior.   Even though the castle’s interior is only a few hundred years old, the exterior is still original and what you do see on the interior is close to the original state.

Loule Castle
Built:1249
Location: Loule, Portugal

Loule Castle is a very medieval looking castle with classic architecture you’d probably see in movies such as Lord of the Rings.  An Earthquake devastated the building in 1755 causing substantial damage however all damage was restored in the 20th century.  Currently, the three remaining towers can be visited for free during daytime hours.  Although you can see the towers for free, the rooms attached to the towers are off limits.

Ansembourg Castle
Built: 1100’s
Location: Valley of the Eisch Stream, Luxembourg

The Ansembourg castle, known locally as Alt-Ansembourg is located in the Valley of the Eisch stream.  This area also goes by the Valley of the Seven Castles and features six other castles. These castles include Mersch, New Ansembourg, Schoenfels, Koerich, Septfontaines and Hollenfels.  This castle is constructed around 200 feet above the valley floor on a rocky spur. In the 1500s the castle was renovated, where the keep was torn down and the gate tower fo the bailey was built. The castle is not available to be visited as it is private property.

I’ve always been a fan of luxury, who hasn’t a little? I’ve mentioned that you can rent a whole Eurail train car if you wanted, but the luxuries of that only go to a certain point. I went looking for other, separate from the Eurail, train systems that provided real luxury. No one else does luxury better than the Europeans and I have little trouble finding luxury train trips that will either break the bank, or be no sweat off your back.

If you like to travel in style these trains I’m listing should satisfy your needs for luxury travel at slow speeds you won’t mind so much. These train trips are about the sights, the sounds and of course the experience of all the trains amenities and activities. These trains provide a trip experience, and not just an easy to way to go from A to B. Most of these excursions will provide you with lush public areas, cozy travel cabins and eye opening day trips that will give your legs a much needed stretch. So now all you have to worry about is the decision. A beautiful and romantic trip on the coast of Spain, a lavish trip through the UK or experience the rest Europe has to offer.

The British Pullman:

For over 100 years The British Pullman has been tracking its course throughout the UK, bringing people to ports and towns in comfort and style. The Pullman Car Company was formed in 1882  and set out to create a more luxurious ride than most people were used to in those days. They had a very successful few years until World War II where they shut down until it was over.

This train was best known for taking passengers from ritzy London to the UK ports abroad. The train cars are luxurious decorated and bring you back to a time of a simpler life. The decore has kept a lot of its heritage and will make you feel like you’ve been transported back half a century. It reminds me of a Victorian era house packed neatly into these spacious but cozy cabins.

Northern Belle Train:

Another amazing train that keeps the old time luxury travel scene on the map is the Northern Belle. Bringing the 1930’s back to life, the Northern Belle takes people on beautiful day trips across the UK. Whether your pleasure is a nice afternoon enjoying the sights, or getting together with friends and touring the golf courses along the way. 

The Northern Belle is a luxury train, so expect to dress the part to be allowed on the train. You won’t be able to get away with jeans on this train, so break out the suit and dress the part because you’ll be glad you did. Dinner trips are more of a black tie event, and for the golfers, make sure you’re wearing the appropriate attire. The train also features seasonal meals that will tantalize your taste buds, and complete your tour with a satisfied feeling.

There are a few different carriages you can choose from which are all named after famous homes and castles. You will find they all follow the same kind of decor bringing a unique feel to each car you visit. There are 6 dining cars and the rest each hold 42 seats which is enough to not feel crowded during your travels. This experience is best suited when you go with a group of friends, or it makes for a perfect romantic getaway for two.

Majestic Imperator:

One of the most fantastic luxury journey’s you can take in Europe comes aboard the Majestic Imperator luxury train. Know for its dinner excursions and private bookings for parties and corporate rendevouz, the Majestic Imperator will take you on a journey through romantic Vienna.

This train doesn’t run all the time so you’ll have to book online or through your travel agent for one of their adventures. Like I stated before, you can book this train for private or corporate parties which include fine dining, dancing and immaculate views of Austria. This train also has a few amazing yearly events such as New Years Eve. The New Years Eve train takes you away into the night with an amazing dinner, and eventually stopping on a bridge looking over the Danube. From here you will watch a grand fireworks show and dance the night away.

Another famous event held on the Majestic Imperator is the Imperial Dinner Train. Art lovers will love this as your day starts off at the Belvedere Houses which are home to Austria’s most celebrated artwork from the past to present. After the art viewing, you are whisked away on the train to enjoy dinner and amazing views of Vienna and the Danube.

El Transcantabrico:

Spain is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Europe, and the El Transcantabrico takes you on a beautiful scenic tour of some of the best sights around. Covering a large chunk of the coast, this train will take you in ultimate luxury on a journey through the almost surreal landscapes of coastal Spain.

This train is mainly for entertainment purposes, and you wouldn’t find yourself using it to get across Spain quickly. The El Transcantabrico whisks you away aboard their lavishly decorated cars into a world most only dream of. You can enjoy fine dining, ocean drenched views and of course dancing throughout the evening. This is an overnight train which comes to a stop to allow for a peaceful nights sleep aboard the trains many fine sleeping quarters. You’ll be able to enjoy the company of others in the nightclub, at the bar or in the more quiet lounge areas. This train also makes for a romantic getaway not to be forgotten!

The 7 day excursions on the train include everything you need. For around $2500-3500 Euro’s, you get a luxury cabin all to yourself which includes a private bathroom and amenities. You get your meals from the finest cooks daily and day trips to local restaurants to soak in the local cuisine. Your day trips also include access to museums and other places of interest making it a full package deal!

The Royal Scotsman:

You know the going is good when your train trip is named one of the most amazing travel experiences in the world. The Royal Scotsman journeys into the heart of Scotland, taking passengers on an eye opening journey through one of the most beautiful landscapes in all of Europe, and possibly the world.

The Royal Scotsman could be another phrase for luxury travel. The train consists of the finest dining and the finest furnishings to go with the finest scenery. You can choose from many different packages which go from a couple nights to a full blown week aboard this amazing train. The prices aboard The Royal Scotsman go with the name, and you should expect to fork out a few thousand dollars to take any trip aboard. Each cabin can be your own private viewing room, and they include a full bathroom, bed and all the right trimmings.

The Royal Scotsman will show you the Highlands in their raw beauty, and after dinner a local clansmen will tell you tales of the past and all that makes Scotland unique. At night the train is stopped so you won’t miss a beat, and are able to rest without the noises of the train. For what you get, this is a must do experience at least once in one’s lifetime.

Italy is one of the most beautiful and most visited countries in Europe, and with its diverse cities and towns, there is no doubt in my mind that you’ll absolutely love Italy. Why do I love it so much? Well the fact that you can go ski in the Italian alps in the north, and then head off to wine and dine in the south makes it one unique and unforgettable experience.

Now here do you begin or go in Italy on the Eurail? The options are limitless and I find the trio of Rome, Venice and Florence to be the best starting point on your Eurail trip. These 3 cities are rated amon the top 10 best world attractions. Words cannot describe the beauty of these three cities, and if you’re traveling with your significant other, you will discover a country of romance. The amount of culture and sites to see in just these three cities would leave your head spinning, so make sure to allott enough time to see all you want to.

Round-Trip One-Way Select a City Pair London-Paris Paris-London Florence-Rome Rome-Florence Florence-Venice Venice-Florence Amsterdam-Paris Paris-Amsterdam Brussels-Paris Paris-Brussels Rome-Venice Venice-Rome Brussels-London London-Brussels Nice-Paris Paris-Nice Paris-Rome Rome-Paris Amsterdam-Brussels Brussels-Amsterdam Prague-Vienna Vienna-Prague Milan-Venice Venice-Milan Avignon-Paris Paris-Avignon See All Cities Departure Date day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Departure time morning afternoon evening Return Date day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Return time morning afternoon evening Adults:

Since Italy is not known as a cheap country, you’ll be pleased with the usual great prices you’ll find on your Eurail Pass. If you have a lot of time to take most of Italy in, then you’ll be happy know know the rail network can take you mostly everywhere in Italy easily. I highly recommend taking the time to visit Naples and Milan, or take a tour of the smaller gems such as Pisa or Turin. So wherever you decide to go, I hope you have a wonderful time and of course, safe travels!

If you’re planning on visiting Belgium and want to take a trip on its rail system, then you’re in luck! Belgium has not only the oldest rail system in Europe, but is is also one of the most extensive rail systems in Europe. The beauty of Belgium is that you can catch a train from Brussels, and be at any corner of the country within a couple hours time.

Belgium is sometimes called the heart of train travel in Europe, and you’ll find that Belgium connects the east and west. This also means that you’ll find a plethora of cultures throughout the country which makes it a very unique place to visit. Whenever I go to Belgium I usually rent an apartment in Brussels as my homebase, and from there I’ll explore the city for a few days. If you’ve never been to Brussels you’re in for a lot of exploring because the city is huge! From there it is easy to explore the country side by train.

Round-Trip One-Way Select a City Pair London-Paris Paris-London Florence-Rome Rome-Florence Florence-Venice Venice-Florence Amsterdam-Paris Paris-Amsterdam Brussels-Paris Paris-Brussels Rome-Venice Venice-Rome Brussels-London London-Brussels Nice-Paris Paris-Nice Paris-Rome Rome-Paris Amsterdam-Brussels Brussels-Amsterdam Prague-Vienna Vienna-Prague Milan-Venice Venice-Milan Avignon-Paris Paris-Avignon See All Cities Departure Date day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Departure time morning afternoon evening Return Date day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Return time morning afternoon evening Adults:

I’ve already mentioned Brussels as a must visit destination, but there are a whole whack of other amazing places in Belgium to see and explore. Antwerp is the world’s diamond headquarters, but there is more to this city than meets the eye. The town has a lot of left over buildings and monuments from medieval times, some of which you won’t find anything like it anywhere else in Europe. If you loved the canals of Amsterdam, you’ll love the quaint lovable town of Bruges. This town is filled with a charm that is hard to find in the big cities, and it’s a great place to visit that will take you away from the crowded tourist destinations. I highly recommend getting a travel book on Belgium or reading up extensively on the Internet before making your trip. Have a great time and safe travels.