Family & Friends Railcard discount code 2026 deals. 1/3 OFF adult and 60% OFF child train tickets in Britain. SAVE £366* and more with unlimited savings on family rail fares.

Let’s dive straight in!

* Family & Friends Railcard holders’ average annual savings is £122 (£366 over three years). Source: National Railcards

Start saving in 2026 with the cheapest Family Railcard discount codes, offers and promotions.

Family & Friends Railcard Discount Code Offers and Deals 2026: Quick Links

• Family & Friends Railcard Discount 3-Year: £20
• Family & Friends Railcard Discount Code 2026
• Family & Friends Railcard Offers
• How Much Do You Save with Family & Friends Railcards?
• Who can apply for a Family & Friends Railcard?
• When can I use a Family & Friends Railcard?
• What restrictions are there with my Family & Friends Railcard?
• How much does the Family & Friends Railcard cost?
• Where to buy a Family & Friends Railcard?
• How to renew a Family & Friends Railcard?

Image: Ecclesall Woods Railway-16 by Mark Gilbert is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Family & Friends Railcard Offers 2026

Family & Friends Railcard holders get 1/3 OFF Adult and 60% OFF Child train fares in Britain. Up to four adults and four kids (between the ages of 5 and 15) can travel simultaneously, providing at least one child is in the group.

The card can have two named adults; either cardholder can use it anytime.

Get the latest Family & Friends Railcard offers and start saving today!

• Family & Friends Railcard 3-Year Offers
• Family & Friends Railcard 1-Year Offers

Family & Friends Railcard Offers & Rewards

There are also partner deals, savings on train fares, and discount code offers. Save money on travel, days out, holidays and attractions in 2026:

• £50 OFF Haven Holidays
• 5% OFF Hoseasons Lodges, Parks and Boating Breaks
• 5% OFF holiday cottages at cottages.com
• 20% OFF experiences at Virgin Experience Days
• FREE two months of Tastecard for 50% OFF at restaurants
• Up to 50% OFF theatre tickets

Get money off the card with Family & Friends Railcard discount code offers.

How Much Do You Save with Family & Friends Railcards?

With this nifty Family & Friends Railcard, you’ll get 1/3 OFF adult rail fares and 60% OFF kids’ across the National Rail Network in Britain. To be eligible, you must travel with a child between 5 and 15 years old.

For example, travelling from Southampton to London with the kids, you will pay £48 for a family of four (two adults and two children).

Family & Friends One-Year Railcard Savings

Throughout the year, savings on train fares will soon add up. The example below is based on actual return fares between stations in Britain.

It compares full fare prices and reduced Family & Friends Railcard prices for a family of four (two adults and two children).

In this example, a family of four SAVE £182.60 a year on train fares. Take off the £27 cost of a discounted one-year Family & Friends Railcard.

Total SAVINGS for one year is £155.60.

Just one trip can pay for a Railcard. You can calculate Family & Friends Railcard discounts with this journey planner.

Unlimited savings are possible as there’s no limit on how many times you can use a Family & Friends Railcard. Over a year, annual savings average £122*.

Don’t forget our cheapest Family Railcard discount code offers and exclusive online deals — a brilliant way to dramatically cut the cost of your rail travel in 2026. Plus, save money with Trainline Family & Friends Railcard discount code offers.

Who can apply for a Family & Friends Railcard?

To get a Family & Friends Railcard, you must travel with at least one child aged 5-15. The Railcard will cover up to four adults and four kids (and you don’t even need to be related!)

Two adults can be named on your Family & Friends Railcard, so either can use it to get 1/3 OFF rail journeys.

When can I use a Family & Friends Railcard?

Enjoy 1/3 OFF for adults and 60% OFF for kids on the price of these train tickets when you use your Family & Friends Railcard. Start saving today, and you’ll benefit all year.

But remember there are some restrictions on the times you’re allowed to use the handy discount card.

Here’s when you can use your Family & Friends Railcard:

• Standard Anytime and Anytime Day Singles and Returns
• Standard Off-Peak and Off-Peak Day Singles and Returns
• Standard Super Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak Day Singles and Returns
• Standard Advance*
• Gatwick Express, Stansted Express and Heathrow Express services
• Off-Peak Day Travelcard Zones 1-6 (subject to the minimum fare of £5.90)
• Anytime Day Travelcard Zones 1-6 when bought as part of the ticket to London from outside London (subject to the minimum fare of £16.40)
• Up to 1/3 OFF adult and 80% OFF child Caledonian Sleeper seats
• Individual train companies offer some tickets
• PLUSBUS
• Some rail/sea journeys with Wightlink, Red Funnel Ferries and Stena Line

* These tickets need to be booked before you travel.

What restrictions are there with a Family & Friends Railcard?

A few time restrictions apply to your Family & Friends Railcard. For example, you won’t be able to travel during the peak time of the morning rush Monday to Friday for journeys within London and the South East. The times vary by route, so it’s best to check before you buy your tickets.

You also won’t be able to use your Railcard for discounts on First Class travel, season tickets and most London Underground and Docklands Light Railway tickets.

How much does the Family & Friends Railcard cost?

Family and Friends Railcard discount code offers and deals

A one-year Family & Friends Railcard costs £35, and you’ll get 1/3 OFF adult and 60% OFF child fares. Look out for Family & Friends Railcard discount code offers and deals.

Three-year Family & Friends Railcard – Online Exclusive £25 OFF

With a three-year Railcard, you get a more significant online exclusive discount of £25 OFF (24%). Instead of paying £105 (the cost of three Railcards at full price each year), you get it for just £80.

Prices will only increase so you will pay more for three one-year Railcards.

SAVE 24% with an online exclusive three-year Family & Friends Railcard today. No promotional code is required to get this deal.

Where to buy a Family & Friends Railcard?

It’s super easy to get hold of a Family & Friends Railcard. SAVE online with £25 OFF a three-year Railcard.

Online

Purchase a Family & Friends Railcard online and save time; you’ll need the following:

• Your address and email address
• Name of the second cardholder (you can add this later)
• A debit or credit card

You can also get discounts with Family & Friends Railcard promotional code offers.

At a train station ticket office

You can buy a Railcard from a staffed train station ticket office or National Rail licensed ticket agent. To save some time, you can complete the application form before you arrive.

Family & Friends Railcard Discount 3-Year: £25 OFF

With a three-year Railcard, you get a more significant online exclusive saving of £25 (24%). Instead of paying £105 (each year for three 1-year Railcards), you get it for just £80.

Prices will only increase so you will pay more for three one-year Railcards.

Today, SAVE 24% with a 2026 exclusive online three-year Family & Friends Railcard. No promotional code is required to get this deal.

Family & Friends Railcard Discount Code 2026

Ready to get massive discounts on rail travel? Don’t miss bagging an extra saving with the cheapest 2026 Family Railcard discount code offers and deals available.

How to renew a Family & Friends Railcard?

It’s simple to renew your Family & Friends Railcard online within 30 days before the expiry date runs out. You’ll get a handy email reminder so you don’t miss out on those savings.

You can renew it online even if you bought it at a train station. Just make sure you register online beforehand.

* Family & Friends Railcard holders’ average annual savings is £116 (£348 over three years). Source: National Railcards

Expired Family & Friends Railcards

Enjoy saving now with a Family & Friends Railcard

Start saving now on train journeys in 2026 and beyond.

Find out more about the Family & Friends Railcard on the official website. Remember to get savings with Family & Friends discount code offers.

Spread the Word and Pin It

Have a family, train travel, saving money or travel in Britain interest board on Pinterest? Just hover over the image and Pin It for later!

More Ways to Save with Railcards

There are plenty more ways to save money on train travel in Britain with Railcards. Check out these National Railcards for the latest 2026 discount code offers.

• 16-17 Saver Railcard – 50% OFF for people aged 16 and 17
• 16-25 Railcard – for people aged between 16 and 25, and full-time students
• 26-30 Railcard – for people aged between 26 and 30
• Disabled Persons Railcard – for people with disabilities and one carer
• Network Railcard – for people living in London and South East England
• Senior Railcard – for people aged 60 and above
• Two Together Railcard – for two people travelling together

Image:
– Ecclesall Woods Railway-16 by Mark Gilbert is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

The post Family & Friends Railcard Discount Code 2026 [60% OFF & SAVE £366] appeared first on The Train Hacker.

16-25 Railcard holders enjoy 1/3 OFF train travel in Britain with savings of £624* and more! SAVE more with 3-year Railcards and 2026 16-25 Railcard promo code offers and deals.

There’s never been a better deal for young people with unlimited ways to save money on rail travel. Here are the best 16-25 Railcard offers and discounts.

* 16-25 Railcard holders save on average £208 per year (£624 over three years) on train tickets (Source: 16-25 Railcard)

16-25 Railcard: Quick Links

• 16-25 Railcard: What’s the deal?
• Is it worth it?
• Hidden tips, hacks and tricks
• 3-year 16-25 Railcard discount: £20 OFF
• 16-25 Railcard discount code 2026
• Cheap train tickets for students

Everything you need to know about a 16-25 Railcard, from the basics to tips and hacks!

16-25 Railcard: What’s the deal?

A 16-25 Railcard is a rail discount card which gives young people 1/3 OFF most train journeys in Britain (England, Scotland and Wales).

16-25 Railcard holders SAVE a whopping £192* per year (that’s £624* over three years!) with total potential savings. Railcard holders who travel a few times a year (or even on one trip!) will have saved enough money to pay for the card.

The 16-25 Railcard is sometimes called a Student Railcard or Young Persons Railcard. Today, it’s available in a digital or plastic format.

Am I eligible?

Anyone aged between 16 and 25 can apply for a 16-25 Railcard, whether you’re living in Britain or overseas. Mature students over 25 studying full-time and living in the UK (Great Britain and Northern Ireland) can also apply.

Find out what 16-25 Railcard you’re eligible for:

	1-year	3-year	Notes
Aged between 16 and 23			You can buy or renew a 3-year 16-25 Railcard up until the day before your 24th birthday, which means it will expire a day before your 27th birthday
Aged between 16 and 25			You can buy or renew a 1-year 16-25 Railcard up until the day before your 26th birthday, which means it will expire a day before your 27th birthday
A full-time student over 25			To qualify, you must attend a UK university or college for at least 15 hours per week, 20 weeks per year. Find out more about mature student eligibility.

Don’t worry if you’re too old or missed out on your last 16-25 Railcard. People aged 26 and 30 get 1/3 OFF train tickets in Britain with a 26-30 Railcard.

Save money on these train tickets in Britain

1/3 OFF 16-25 Railcard discounts apply to these types of Standard Class and First Class tickets:

	Standard	First
Advance
Anytime & Anytime Day: Single & Return
Off-Peak & Off-Peak Day: Single & Return
Super Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Day: Single & Return
Most Rail Rover tickets
Gatwick Express, Heathrow Express, Heathrow Connect & Stansted Express

• London travel for National Rail, London Underground and Docklands Light Railway journeys:
  • Oyster Off-Peak pay as you go daily capped limits (the maximum you will need to spend each day)
  • Oyster Off-Peak single tickets
  • Anytime Day Travelcard zones 1-6 when bought as part of a ticket to London (minimum fare £22.60)
• Caledonian Sleeper:
  • Discounts on Club Solo and Classic Solo rooms and seats
• PLUSBUS bus tickets
• Rail/sea journeys with Wightlink and Red Funnel Ferries to train stations on the Isle of Wight and from Ryde Hoverport (combined rail/sea journeys to/from Ryde Hoverport) and Stena Line ferries to Ireland.

There are minimum fare rules. For more information, check out when I can use my Railcard.

© Chris P King

Is it worth it?

So, you’re thinking, is a 16-25 Railcard worth it? You bet it is! On average, 16-25 Railcard holders SAVE £208* per year, but you can save a lot more!

And don’t forget you can use your Railcard to buy Advance tickets, the cheapest rail fares in Britain. So, you’ll get double the savings with an extra 1/3 OFF the lowest-priced tickets.

And if you buy online, you’ll get money off the card with 2026 16-25 Railcard discount code offers!

Hidden tips, hacks and tricks

Still undecided? Check out our hidden tips, hacks and tricks that make a fantastic deal even better!

Save money until the day before your 27th birthday

Although it’s called a 16-25 Railcard, you can use it right up to the day before your 27th birthday! You can buy or renew a 1-year 16-25 until the day before your 26th birthday. And, for more savings, you can get a 3-year 16-25 Railcard until the day before your 24th birthday.

Switch off auto-renewal for Railcard discounts

To save money on the card, switch off online auto-renew. You can get a reduced price with a 16-25 Railcard discount code when renewing.

Otherwise, you’ll pay the full price for your new Railcard if it’s set to auto-renew.

Buying train tickets

In Britain, the cheapest train tickets are available in some cases three months in advance or longer. Book your tickets as early as possible and include a 16-25 Railcard discount, even if you don’t have a Railcard.

You can buy advance tickets with a valid 16-25 Railcard the day you travel. We recommend purchasing tickets from Transport for Wales, which has no booking or credit and debit card fees on rail travel in Britain.

London travel

Frequent and occasional travellers in London get cheaper travel with a 16-25 Railcard.

Oyster card holders get 1/3 OFF single off-peak pay-as-you-go and daily capped limits (the maximum you will pay on any day). This applies to London Underground, National Rail and Docklands Light Railway journeys.

Take your 16-25 Railcard and Oyster card to a London Underground station, and they’ll apply the discount. Both cards must be in the same name.

Railcard holders get 1/3 OFF Anytime Day Travelcards (zones 1-9) when bought with a ticket to London.

Student Railcard discounts

Both UK-born and international students enjoy 1/3 OFF train tickets in Britain. Of course, you qualify anyway if you’re between 16 and 25.

Mature students over 25 attending a UK university or college full-time are eligible for a 16-25 Railcard. Full-time is 15 hours per week and 20 weeks per year. You must complete a form and request an endorsement from your university or college.

For 16 and 17-year-olds who travel at peak morning times to school or college, a 16-17 Saver Railcard is essential. It has no time restrictions or minimum fares and includes season tickets. Get money off the card with 2026 16-17 Railcard discount code offers.

16-25 digital Railcard and app

The 16-25 Railcard is available in a digital and physical format.

After buying a digital Railcard, you must download an app and apply a code to activate it. With the Railcard app set up, you can use it immediately.

The Railcard app is only available for Android and iPhone and can be added to two devices.

Visitors to Britain

If you’re visiting Britain, you can buy a Railcard online with an overseas credit or debit card. But you must provide a UK delivery address for digital and plastic Railcards.

There is a simple way around this, though! You can get your Railcard delivered to your first accommodation for overseas visitors. If it’s friends or family, it’s easy. If it’s a hotel or hostel, we recommend you contact them to know your Railcard is arriving.

Of course, buying online means you’ll get exclusive online 16-25 Railcard deals! And what’s more, you’ll also save on faster airport trains, like the Gatwick Express, Heathrow Express and Stansted Express.

Annual Gold Card: 16-25 Railcards for £10!

Annual Gold Cardholders can get a 16-25 Railcard for themselves or someone else for only £10! Find out how to get this deal.

16-25 Railcard partner offers

16-25 Railcard holders save money on travel and enjoy partner discounts in 2026:

• 5% OFF Hoseasons Parks and Lodges
• 5% OFF holiday cottages from cottages.com
• 20% OFF experience days at Virgin Experience Days
• 50% OFF London West End theatre tickets
• FREE three-month tastecard membership

Image: yeaaaaah by Leonora Giovanazzi is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0 Deed / Edited from original

3-year 16-25 Railcard discount: £25 OFF

An exclusive online 3-year 16-25 Railcard is always a better deal than a 1-year Railcard. In 2026, the 3-year Railcard will cost £80, which means you’ll SAVE £25 compared to buying three 1-year Railcards.

Grab a bargain 3-year Railcard today, as prices will only go up!

* 16-25 Railcard holders save on average £208 per year (£624 over three years) on rail travel (Source: 16-25 Railcard)

1-year 16-25 Railcard discount code 2026

We’ve got all the latest exclusive online 1-year 16-25 2026 Railcard discount code offers and deals. We keep these updated so you always get the best deals!

* 16-25 Railcard holders save on average £208 per year on train tickets (Source: 16-25 Railcard)

How to use a 16-25 promotional code

To use a 16-25 promotional or discount code, take the following steps:

1. Login or register on the 16-25 Railcard website

2. After logging in or registering, go to the ‘Choose Railcard’ page (see A below)

3. Enter your promotional code in the box and select ‘Add’ (see B below)

4. You will get a pop-up box confirming your discount

5. Continue to buy or renew your 16-25 Railcard with the discount applied (you can also use promotional code discounts when renewing your Railcard)

Expired 16-25 Railcard Offers

Other ways to buy a 16-25 Railcard

Also, if you cannot get a 16-25 Railcard online, there are different ways to get one. But you won’t get the best deals!

If you want a 3-year Railcard, you’re out of luck, as you can only buy it online. For 1-year Railcards, you only get a discount when you buy online.

16-25 Railcard	Online	Phone	Train station
3-year
1-year discount price
1-year standard price

Still not convinced to buy it online? Here are other ways to buy a 16-25 Railcard:

• At a train station ticket office

Other Railcards for young people

There are other Railcards in Britain for young people to save 1/3 on train tickets.

• 16-17 Saver Railcard – for travel in most of Britain
• Network Railcard – for travel within London and the South East
• Young Scot Card – for trips within Scotland

And, of course, the 26-30 Railcard is for older people.

Save money on train travel in Europe

Young people aged 27 and under get the following discounts on rail passes in Europe:

• Interrail passes– 25% OFF for European residents
• Eurail passes– 25% OFF for non-European residents
• SNCF Connect travel in France and Europe – 30% OFF and up to 60% OFF

Also, check out our guide to discount youth and student travel in Europe.

Image: Memories are made like this by Tim Dennell is licensed used under CC BY-NC 2.0 Deed

Cheap Train Tickets for Students

We always recommend a 2026 16-25 Railcard for students as you get cheaper rail fares throughout Britain. Yet, there are other bargain rail fares for students!

No booking fees or card charges

Book your tickets with Transport for Wales, and you will not pay any booking fees or card charges!

Train company: Special offers for students

Train companies in Britain offer special rail fares for students on journeys on their network. They also don’t charge booking or credit and debit card fees.

Don’t know who operates which area of the network? Try this rail company network map of Britain.

Check out our list of 2026 discounted student train tickets!

More ways to save with Railcards

There are many other ways to get 1/3 OFF train travel in Britain with National Railcards. And if you know what you want, check out the discounts and offers on these Railcards.

• 16-17 Saver Railcard – 50% OFF for people aged 16 and 17
• 26-30 Railcard – for people aged between 26 and 30
• Disabled Persons Railcard – for people with disabilities and one carer
• Family & Friends Railcards – for families and small groups of adults and children
• Network Railcard – for people living in London and South East England
• Senior Railcard – for people aged 60 and above
• Two Together Railcard – for two people travelling together

Start saving in 2026 with 16-25 Railcard discount code offers!

Images:
– yeaaaaah by Leonora Giovanazzi is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0 Deed / Edited from original
– Memories are made like this by Tim Dennell is licensed used under CC BY-NC 2.0 Deed

The post 16-25 Student Railcard Promo Code 2026 [£25 OFF & SAVE £624] appeared first on The Train Hacker.

Save online with the latest Two Together discount code deals and promotional offers!

* Two Together Railcard holders SAVE an average of £104 per year on train fares (Source: Two Together Railcard)

Two Together Railcard Discount Code 2026 Offers and Deals: Quick Links

• Two Together Railcard Discount Code 2026
• Two Together Railcard Offers
• How much money do I save with a Two Together Railcard?
• Who can apply for a Two Together Railcard?
• When can we use the Two Together Railcard?
• What are the Two Together Railcard restrictions?
• How much does the Two Together Railcard cost?
• Where to buy a Two Together Railcard?
• How to renew a Two Together Railcard?

image: © The Train Hacker / Chris P King

Two Together Railcard Offers 2026

Two Together Railcard holders get 1/3 OFF train fares when both people travel together. You must both be 16 years or older to get the card.

Get the latest Two Together offers and start saving today!

• Two Together Railcard Offers

Two Together Railcard Offers & Rewards

There are also partner deals, savings on train fares, and discount code offers. Save money on travel, days out, holidays and attractions in 2026.

• FREE Premium Skincare Gift up to £20 with grüum
• £50 to spend at Virgin Wines plus FREE delivery and FREE glasses
• £10 OFF per person with Warner Leisure Hotels
• FREE 3-month tastecard and get up to 50% OFF restaurants
• 5% OFF train holidays with Railbookers
• 5% OFF on cottages at Cottages.com
• SAVE up to £50 with Haven Holidays
• 20% OFF experiences at Virgin Experience Days
• 5% OFF parks, lodges, and boating breaks with Hoseasons Parks and Lodges
• Up to 50% OFF theatre tickets

Get money off the card itself with Two Together Railcard discount code offers.

Who can apply for a Two Together Railcard?

To apply for a Two Together Railcard, you must be 16 or above. The person you’re travelling with must be named on the Railcard and be 16 years of age or above.

There’s no limit on how many Two Together Railcards you can have; however, for each one, the named person must be travelling with you for your discount to be eligible.

The deal is only available for people 16 years and above; it gives no discount on child fares.

It does not matter who the named person is on your Two Together Railcard. It could be a family member, friend or work colleague.

How much money do I save with a Two Together Railcard?

When the Two Together Railcard holder and the named person go together, you’ll enjoy 1/3 OFF train travel.

For example, if two people took an Off-Peak Day Return from Manchester Picadilly to London Euston, you’d save a whopping £27.10 on the journey. The fare costs £52.60 with the Railcard and £79.70 without one.

With a Two Together Railcard discount code offer and deals, you can get further discounts in 2026 on the card before you’ve ever travelled.

Image credit: mislav-marohnic

When can we use the Two Together Railcard?

You can get discounted rail travel in Britain when two people go together on the train ticket types below. There are restrictions on times you’re not allowed to travel.

You can enjoy 1/3 OFF train travel across the whole National Rail network in Britain on the following types of ticket:

• Standard and First Class Anytime and Anytime Day Singles and Returns
• Standard and First Class Off-Peak and Off-Peak Day Singles and Returns
• Standard and First Class Super Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak Day Singles and Returns
• Standard and First Class Advance*
• Gatwick Express, Stansted Express, Heathrow Express and Heathrow Connect services
• Off-Peak Day Travelcard when bought as part of your ticket to London from outside London Zones 1-9 (subject to a minimum fare of £5.30)
• Anytime Day Travelcard when purchased as part of the ticket to London from outside London Zones 1-9 (Subject to the minimum fare of £15.00)
• Some rail/sea journeys to the Isle of Wight with Wightlink, Red Funnel Ferries and Hovertravel
• PLUSBUS tickets

* You must book these tickets before you travel

To be eligible for the discount, both people named on the Railcard must be together for the entire journey. It’s non-transferable, so you only get the discount if you travel together.

What are the Two Together Railcard restrictions?

You cannot use the Two Together Railcard during morning peak times between 04:30 and 09:30, weekdays, Monday to Friday. It’s OK, however, to use it on weekends or public holidays as there are no restrictions.

The Two Together Railcard is non-transferable, meaning only the named cardholders can travel together.

How much does a Two Together Railcard cost?

The Two Together Railcard costs £35; however, look for Two Together discount code deals and promotions. Royal Mail First Class offers free delivery when you purchase a Railcard online. If you need it in a hurry, there is a pricey option to get it by Royal Mail Special Delivery.

Currently, there is no three-year Two Together Railcard.

Where to buy a Two Together Railcard?

Online

You can purchase a Two Together Railcard online; all you’ll need are the following:

• Two digital photos of each person named on the Railcard
• A debit or credit card

Get an exclusive online discount with a 2026 Two Together Railcard discount code.

At a train station ticket office

You can buy a Railcard from a staffed train station ticket office or National Rail licensed ticket agent. You’ll need to bring along the following:

• A completed application form
• Two passport-sized photos of the cardholder and the other person named on the Railcard

Image credit: wwarby

Two Together Railcard Discount Code 2026

Are you ready to start getting 1/3 OFF train travel?

Get a further discount before travelling with 2026 Two Together Railcard discount code offers and deals.

How to renew a Two Together Railcard?

It’s easy to renew your Two Together Railcard online; follow these steps.

Railcards

With Railcards, you can renew your Two Together Railcard up to 30 days in advance. Renewing your Two Together Railcard is possible online, whether you bought it online or at a train station. Check the Train Hacker for Two Together renewal discount code offers before proceeding.

* Two Together Railcard holders SAVE an average of £97 per year on train fares (Source: Two Together Railcard)

Expired Two Together Promotional Code Deals

Enjoy saving now with a Two Together Railcard

Start saving on train journeys in 2026 and beyond when two people travel together. And get a saving before you’ve even travelled with a Two Together discount code.

More Ways to Save with Railcards

There are plenty more ways to save money on train travel in Britain with Railcards. Check out these National Railcards for the latest 2026 discount code offers.

• 16-17 Saver Railcard – 50% OFF for people aged 16 and 17
• 16-25 Railcard – best for 16-25-year-olds and students
• 26-30 Railcard– 1/3 OFF rail travel for millennials aged between 26 and 30 years old
• Disabled Persons Railcard – best for people with disabilities
• Family and Friends Railcard – best for families and small groups, which include children
• Network Railcard – best discount offer for people living in London and South East England
• Senior Railcard – best for people 60 years old and above

Images:
– Infinity by Mislav Marohnić is licensed under CC BY 2.0 Attribution 2.0 Generic Deed
– Models by William Warby is licensed used under CC BY-NC 2.0 Attribution-NonCommercial 2.0 Generic Deed

The post Two Together Railcard Discount Code 2026 [1/3 OFF & SAVE £104] appeared first on The Train Hacker.

Save online with the latest deals, discounts, promotions, and Senior Railcard offers!

* Senior Railcard holders SAVE an average of £112 per year (£336 over three years) on train fares (Source: Senior Railcard)

I’ll keep you posted on the latest offers from Railcards and Trainline Senior Railcard discount code deals. Start saving today and never pay the full fare in 2026 and beyond.

£25 OFF 3-Year & 1-Year Senior Railcard Discount Code Offers 2026: Quick Links

• 3-Year Senior Railcard Discount Online Exclusive
• Senior Railcard Discount Code 2026
• Senior Railcard Offers & Rewards: Up to 50% OFF
• Who can apply for a Senior Railcard?
• How much money do I save with a Senior Railcard?
• When can I use a Senior Railcard?
• What are the Senior Railcard restrictions?
• How much does the Senior Railcard cost?
• Where to buy a Senior Railcard?
• How to renew a Senior Railcard?

Senior Railcard Offers 2026

Senior Railcard holders get a 1/3 OFF discount on train fares in Britain. You’ll need to be 60 years or older to qualify. Get the latest Senior Railcard offers and start saving today!

• Senior Railcard 3-Year Offers
• Senior Railcard 1-Year Offers

Senior Railcard Offers & Rewards: Up to 50% OFF

There are also partner deals, savings on train fares, and discount code offers. Across 2026, you can save money on holidays, days out, attractions, and gifts. You can also get cheap deals on tickets to theatres, events, exhibitions, and shows throughout Britain.

• Up to 50% OFF West End theatre and musical tickets with exclusive offers
• 5% OFF holiday cottages and villas at Cottages.com
• 5% OFF Hoseasons Holidays lodges, parks and boating breaks
• 5% OFF discount on Railbookers holidays by train
• SAVE up to £50 on seaside breaks with Haven Holidays
• 20% OFF experiences at Virgin Experience Days
• SAVE £10 on hotels and coastal villages at Warner Leisure Hotels
• SAVE 5% with Ambassador Cruise Line cruise holidays
• 25% OFF Wonky Coffee with coffee from only 16p per cup
• FREE three-month Tastecard for discounts at restaurants

Get money off the card itself with Senior Railcard discount code offers.

Who can apply for a Senior Railcard?

To get a Senior Railcard for 2026, you must be 60 or over. It’s as simple as that.

You’ll need to apply (like proof of age), and there are some restrictions, but we’ll fill you in on those below.

How much money do I save with a Senior Railcard?

Avoid paying full price for train travel and rack up savings with a 2026 Senior Railcard. Get a year of 1/3 OFF standard and first-class rail fares throughout Britain with a one-year Railcard.

For example, if you wanted to travel from Sheffield to London to visit the grandchildren using an off-peak return, you would have to pay £67.50, but with your Senior Railcard, you can save £22.95 and visit the capital for £44.55!

Remember to look out for Senior Railcard discount code offers and online deals. Wouldn’t that be a lovely way to save money in 2026 and beyond?

When can I use a Senior Railcard?

Take full advantage of your Senior Railcard and save maximum when booking your rail travel. Here’s how to enjoy 1/3 OFF of the price of all these train tickets, valid across the National Rail Network in Britain for the next 12 months or three years.

• Standard and First Class Anytime and Anytime Day Singles and Returns
• Standard and First Class Off-Peak and Off-Peak Day Singles and Returns
• Standard and First Class Super Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak Day Singles and Returns
• Standard and First Class Advance*
• Caledonian Sleeper discounts of up to 34% OFF Club Solo or Classic Solo rooms and seats
• Gatwick Express, Stansted Express, Heathrow Express and Heathrow Connect services
• Oyster Off-Peak pay-as-you-go Daily Price Cap and Off-Peak pay-as-you-go single fares for journeys on National Rail, London Underground and Docklands Light Railway
• Off-Peak Day Travelcard Zones 1-6 (subject to a minimum fare of £5.90)
• Anytime Day Travelcard Zones 1-6 when bought as part of the ticket to London from outside London (Subject to the minimum fare of £16.40)
• Through tickets for travel on the Railair link between Reading and Heathrow Airport
• PLUSBUS
• Some rail/sea journeys with Wightlink, Red Funnel Ferries and Stena Line

* These tickets need to be booked before you travel.

What restrictions are there on the Senior Railcard?

Remember a few time restrictions with your Senior Railcard in 2026.

They won’t be valid for your season tickets, and you won’t be able to use your Railcard for the discount during the morning rush hour Monday to Friday within London and South East. However, the off-peak (discounted) service times vary, so it’s best to check when you book your tickets.

How much does a Senior Railcard cost?

One-year Senior Railcard

The Senior Railcard costs only £35 per year; however, look out for Senior Railcard promotional code offers and discount promotions. With 1/3 OFF rail travel in Britain, the card will pay for itself in a few journeys.

Detail from old British Rail carriage from the South Devon Railway – © The Train Hacker images/Chris P King

3-Year Senior Railcard Discount Online Exclusive

With three-year Railcards, you can make a significant online exclusive saving of £25 (24% off). Instead of paying £105 (the full price of three Railcards yearly), you can get them for just £80.

* Senior Railcard holders SAVE an average of £112 per year (£336 over three years) on train fares (Source: Senior Railcard)

Prices are bound to increase, so you will likely pay even more for three one-year Railcards.

This exclusive online offer saves £25 on a three-year Senior Railcard today. No promotional code is required for this deal.

Where to buy a Senior Railcard?

Getting hold of a Senior Railcard is effortless, and there are plenty of ways to do it. You can also get Senior Railcard promotional code deals and online offers.

Online

You can buy a Senior Railcard online; you need the following:

• A valid UK driver’s license or passport
• A debit or credit card
• Debit cards – Visa Debit, Visa Electron, MasterCard Debit and Maestro
• Credit cards – Visa and MasterCard

Don’t forget to apply your Senior Railcard promotional code when you buy online!

At a train station ticket office

You can buy a Railcard from a staffed train station ticket office or National Rail licensed ticket agent. You’ll need to bring along one of the following:

• Your birth certificate
• Your valid international passport
• Your UK driving licence

To save some time, you can complete the application form before you go.

However, remember that you’ll only get savings and discounts when you buy Railcards online.

Senior Railcard Discount Code 2026 Offers and Deals

Ready to start saving 1/3 on your rail travel?

* Senior Railcard holders SAVE an average of £112 per year on train tickets (Source: Senior Railcard)

How to renew a Senior Railcard

It’s easy to renew your Senior Railcard online 30 days before its expiry date. You could renew it online even if you bought it at a train station.

Look out for Senior Railcard renewal promotional code offers, and remember, you’ll still SAVE £25 with a 3-year Railcard.

Expired Senior Railcard Discount Codes

Enjoy saving now with a Senior Railcard

Start saving now on train journeys in 2026 and beyond.

Find out more about the Senior Railcard on the official website. Remember to look out for Senior Railcard discount codes and special online offers.

More Ways to Save with Railcards

There are plenty more ways to save money on train travel in Britain with Railcards. Check out these National Railcards for the latest 2026 discount code offers.

• 16-17 Saver Railcard – 50% OFF for people aged 16 and 17
• 16-25 Railcard – best for 16-25-year-olds and students
• 26-30 Railcard– 1/3 OFF rail travel for millennials aged between 26 and 30 years old
• Disabled Persons Railcard – best for people with disabilities
• Family and Friends Railcard – best for families and small groups, which include children
• Network Railcard – best discount offer for people living in London and South East England
• Two Together Railcard – best for two people who travel together

The post Senior Railcard Discount Code Offers 2026 [£25 OFF & SAVE £336] appeared first on The Train Hacker.

Why not take advantage of the 2026 Network Railcard promo code offers for significant savings when travelling by train? And bag 1/3 OFF adult and 60% OFF child fares in the Network Railcard area.

Start saving an average of £154* per year today with Network Railcard discounts!

* Network Railcard holders save on average £154 per year on train tickets (Source: National Rail – Network Railcard)

Network Railcard Discount Code 2026 Offers: Quick Links

• Network Railcard Discount Code 2026: 1/3 OFF Train Tickets
• Who can apply for a Network Railcard?
• How much money do I save with a Network Railcard?
• When can I use a Network Railcard?
• What restrictions are there with my Network Railcard?
• How much does the 2026 Network Railcard cost?
• Where to buy a Network Railcard?
• How to renew a Network Railcard?

Who can apply for a Network Railcard?

If you’re 16 or older and travelling within the Network Railcard area (trips to and around London and South East England), you will qualify for a Network Railcard and receive 1/3 OFF rail travel.

If you live and travel in the area by rail and don’t qualify for the other National Railcards, getting a 2026 Network Railcard with a 1/3 discount on train travel is an absolute no-brainer.

How much money do I save with a Network Railcard?

This nifty Network Railcard gives you 1/3 OFF rail fares across the Network Railcard area map. Just remember to bring your Railcard with you on each train journey.

For example, you can use your Network Railcard discount on a £90 fare to anywhere within the area map and save £20 on that journey. With that extra £30 saving, you can enjoy spending on food, drinks or even a spot of shopping!

With your Railcard, you can travel with up to three adults, and they’ll also get 1/3 OFF of their train ticket. Also, when travelling with up to four children (aged 5 to 15), you can knock 60% OFF each child’s fare!

In 2026, the Network Railcard discount offers 1/3 savings over the whole year!

When can I use a Network Railcard?

This handy Network Railcard offers 1/3 OFF your usual rail fare price. Here’s what train companies are providing Network Railcard discounts you can take advantage of :

• Avanti West Coast
• Chiltern Railways
• CrossCountry
• c2c
• East Midlands Railway
• Elizabeth Line
• Gatwick Express
• Greater Anglia
• Great Northern
• Greater Western Railway
• Heathrow Express
• Island Line
• London North Eastern Railway (LNER)
• London Northwestern Railway
• London Overground
• Southeastern
• Southern
• South Western Railway
• Thameslink
• Transport for Wales
• West Midlands Railway

What restrictions are there with a Network Railcard?

There are a few restrictions to remember with Network Railcard offers in 2026. The discounts only apply when you travel after 10:00 Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays). The good news is they are valid at any time on weekends.

Time restrictions do vary depending on where you’re travelling. There is also a £13 minimum fare on journeys between Mondays and Fridays.

How much does the Network Railcard cost?

The Network Railcard will cost £35 in 2026, be valid for 12 months, and give you 1/3 off train travel all year! It’s a bargain, and with these fantastic discounts, it will pay for itself in two or three journeys.

Where to buy a Network Railcard?

Online

Buy your Network Railcard online to save time and hassle at the station. It’s straightforward and only takes a few minutes.

Look out for the latest discount code offers on Network Railcards. In the meantime, enjoy 1/3 OFF train travel in London and South East England.

Ticket Office at Station

To start saving with your Network Railcard, complete the application form and take it to your ticket office within the Network Railcard area.

You can download a Network Railcard application here. Alternatively, you can pick up an application form at your local National Rail station.

Network Railcard Discount Code 2026: 1/3 OFF Train Tickets

Start saving today with Network Railcard promo code offers and get money off rail fares in London and South East England.

How to renew a Network Railcard

It’s easy to renew a Network Railcard; follow these steps.

Railcards

You can renew your Network Railcard online 30 days in advance with Railcards. If you bought your existing Railcard at a train station, register it on the Railcards website before renewing it online. Check the Train Hacker website for Network Railcard promo deals before proceeding.

Alternatively, you can renew your Network Railcard at your local train station.

* Network Railcard holders save on average £154 per year on train tickets (Source: National Rail – Network Railcard)

Trainline

You can renew your Trainline Network Railcard four weeks before your existing card expires. However, check the Train Hacker for Trainline Network Railcard discount code offers before renewing automatically.

Expired Network Railcard Discount Codes

Enjoy saving now with a Network Railcard

Start saving today and get 1/3 discounted train fares in 2026 and beyond within the Network Railcard area with this fantastic Network Railcard promo code offer.

More Ways to Save with Railcards

There are plenty more ways to save money on train travel in Britain with Railcards. Check out these National Railcards for the latest 2026 discount code offers.

• 16-17 Saver Railcard – 50% OFF for people aged 16 and 17
• 16-25 Railcard – best for 16-25-year-olds and students
• 26-30 Railcard – 1/3 OFF rail travel for millennials aged between 26 and 30 years old
• Disabled Persons Railcard – best for people with disabilities
• Family and Friends Railcard – best for families and small groups, which include children
• Senior Railcard – best for people 60 years old and above
• Two Together Railcard – best for two people who travel together

The post Network Railcard Promo Code 2026 [60% OFF & SAVE £154] appeared first on The Train Hacker.

26-30 Railcard (also called a Millennial Railcard or Under 30s Railcard) holders enjoy 1/3 OFF train travel in Britain with savings of £281* and more! Start saving today with 2026 26-30 Railcard promo code offers!

With an unlimited potential to save money on train tickets, there’s never been a better deal for 26 to 30-year-olds.

Are you aged 25 years and younger? A 16-25 Railcard is for you, and you’ll save money with our exclusive online offers.

26-30 Railcard: Quick Links

• 26-30 Railcard: What’s the deal?
• Is it worth it?
• Hidden tips, hacks and tricks
• 26-30 Railcard Railcard Discount Code 2026
• How to Renew a 26-30 Railcard

Everything you need to know about a 26-30 Railcard, from the basics to tips and hacks!

26-30 Railcard: What’s the deal?

What is a 26-30 Railcard? It’s a National Railcard which gives people between 26 and 30 1/3 OFF most train tickets in Britain (England, Wales and Scotland).

It’s also known as a Millennial Railcard due to the age group it’s available to.

On average, 26-30 Railcard holders can SAVE £281* per year, with an unlimited potential to save a lot more. Frequent train travellers will get massive savings throughout the year, and as the card pays for itself in just a few trips (or even one!), casual rail users will save, too.

The 26-30 Railcard is only available for one year and in digital format.

Who can get a 26-30 Railcard?

Anyone aged between 26 and 30 can get a 26-30 Railcard.

Find out what 26-30 Railcard you’re eligible for:

	1-year	3-year	Notes
Aged between 26 and 30			You can buy or renew a 1-year 26-30 Railcard up until the day before your 31st birthday, which means you can save right up till your 32nd birthday
Full-time students aged between 26 and 30			You can buy a 16-25 Railcard or a 26-30 Railcard. After you’re too old for a 26-30 Railcard, you can still get a 16-25 Railcard

What discounted train tickets can I get with a 26-30 Railcard?

26-30 Railcard holders get 1/3 OFF most Standard and some First Class train tickets in Britain.

	Standard	First
Advance
Anytime & Anytime Day: Single & Return
Off-Peak & Off-Peak Day: Single & Return

• Most Rail Rover travel pass fares
• Gatwick Express, Stansted Express and Heathrow Express
• Travel in London by National Rail, London Underground and Docklands Light Railway:
  • Oyster Off-Peak pay as you go daily capped limits (capped to the maximum amount you will need to spend each day)
  • Oyster Off-Peak single tickets
  • Off-Peak Day Travelcard zones 1-6
  • Anytime Day Travelcard zones 1-6 when purchased as part of a train ticket to London (minimum spend applies)
  • PLUSBUS tickets
  • Some rail and train journeys, including Wightlink ferries to the Isle of Wight, and Hovertravel services between Ryde and Southsea

Unfortunately, you can’t get discounts on the overnight sleeper train between London and Scotland, but check out my Caledonian Sleeper promotions and deals. Find out when to use your 26-30 Railcard, minimum fare, and time restrictions.

How does the 26-30 Railcard work?

Apart from being only available in digital format, the 26-30 Railcard works like other Railcards. Just buy the card and ensure you’ve got it when you travel; it’s that simple!

There’s no paper version, so you load the Railcard onto an app on up to two mobile or tablet devices. Ensure you have battery power and can show your Railcard app on demand. Otherwise, you don’t qualify for a discount.

Where can I buy a 26-30 Railcard?

26-30 Railcards are only available to buy online. Save money on the card with the latest exclusive online discounts.

Online

To buy online, you’ll need the following:

• a debit card or credit card
• proof of age (a UK driving license or passport)
• a digital, passport-style photo

26-30 Railcard: Is it worth it?

Yes, the 26-Railcard is worth it if you spend more than £105 per year on qualifying train journeys. Initial research from National Rail suggests that 26-30 Railcard holders SAVE £281* per year, but you can save a lot more!

And to top it off, you’ll get 1/3 OFF most Advance tickets, which are already the cheapest rail fares available. Plus, there are no minimum fare restrictions at weekends.

Start saving today when you buy online with 2026 26-30 Railcard discount code deals!

Hidden tips, hacks and tricks

Still not sure whether to get a 26-30 Railcard? Check out our hidden tips, hacks and tricks, which make this offer even better!

Save money until the day before your 32nd birthday

How does that work? You can buy or renew a 26-30 Railcard until the day before your 31st birthday (when you’re still 30). This means you’ll be able to save money on train tickets till you’re nearly 32!

London travel

Whether you’re a regular or occasional traveller within London, apply your 26-30 Railcard to your Oyster card. To do this, take both cards to a London Underground station, and they’ll apply the discount.

You’ll get 1/3 OFF single off-peak pay-as-you-go and daily capped limits (the most you will pay in one day) for National Rail, London Underground and Docklands Light Railway journeys within London. Also, you can get discounts on some day London Travelcards when bought with train tickets to London.

16-25 Railcard vs 26-30 Railcard

OK, you’re wondering why I’m comparing a 26-30 Railcard vs a 16-25 Railcard! If you’re 25 and nearly 26, you’ll be better off buying a 16-25 Railcard, which will last until you’re almost 27. Here’s why.

The key difference is around £12 minimum fares, which both Railcards are subject to journeys before 10:00 Monday to Friday. With 16-25 Railcards, the minimum fare does not apply in these cases (and it does apply to 26-30 Railcards):

For advance tickets before 10:00 Monday to Friday, as they’re the cheapest rail fares available, you’ll want to maximise this benefit during July and August, the peak summer months when you want to travel.

Are there other alternative Railcards?

Yes, there are other National Railcards available for people aged between 26 and 30. Family & Friends Railcard holders get better travel time benefits, but all journeys must include a child. A Network Railcard is another alternative if you regularly travel with other adults and children in London and the South-East.

26-30 Railcard partner offers

26-30 Railcard holders save money with travel, restaurant, days out and lifestyle offers.

• £50 to spend at Virgin Wines, plus FREE delivery and FREE glasses
• 1 month FREE at ClassPass
• £50 OFF Haven Holidays
• 5% OFF Cottages.com holidays
• Discounted Hoseasons Parks and Lodges holidays
• FREE three months of tastecard membership
• 20% OFF Virgin Experience Days
• SAVE up to 50% on London West End theatre tickets

26-30 Railcard Discount Code 2026

Save now with 2026 26-30 Railcard promo code deals!

How to Renew a 26-30 Railcard

It’s easy to renew a 26-30 Railcard online; follow these easy steps. Look out for the latest 26-30 Railcard renewal discount codes before you continue.

Railcards

With Railcards, you can renew your 26-30 Railcard up to 30 days in advance. If your existing Railcard is due to expire after your 31st birthday, you’ll need to buy a new one. Check the Train Hacker for a 26-30 Railcard renewal promo code offer before proceeding.

Trainline

You can renew a 26-30 Railcard four weeks in advance with Trainline. It’s best to check the Train Hacker for deals before automatically renewing. And don’t forget to make the most of your Trainline 26-30 Railcard and make a renewal before your 31st birthday.

Expired 26-30 Railcard Offers

d >>

More ways to save with Railcards

There are plenty of other ways to get 1/3 OFF train travel in Britain with National Railcards. And if you know what you want, check out the discounts and offers on these Railcards.

• 16-17 Saver Railcard – 50% OFF for people aged 16 and 17
• 16-25 Railcard – for people aged between 16 to 25 and full-time students
• Disabled Persons Railcard – for people with disabilities and one carer
• Family & Friends Railcards – for families and small groups of adults and children
• Network Railcard – for people living in London and South East England
• Senior Railcard – for people aged 60 and above
• Two Together Railcard – for two people travelling together

Start saving in 2026 with 26-30 Railcard discount code offers!

* Average savings made by 26-30 Railcard holders (Source: 26-30 Railcard by National Rail)

The post 26-30 Railcard Promo Code 2026 [1/3 OFF & SAVE £281] appeared first on The Train Hacker.

SAVE time on your travels in 2026, and with no hotel bills, SAVE money, too.

Caledonian Sleeper Discount Offers

Get the latest Caledonian Sleeper cheap tickets, discount offers, and promo code deals.

We’ll update you with the latest Caledonian Sleeper discount code offers and cheap ticket deals.

Caledonian Sleeper: Quick Links

• Caledonian Sleeper Discount Offers
• Types of Tickets
  • Caledonian Sleeper Tickets
  • Berth Only Supplements
  • How to Buy Caledonian Sleeper Tickets
• Caledonian Sleeper Prices
• Routes & Map
• Caledonian Sleeper Timetables
• Accommodation – Sleepers, Seats and Amenities
  • Sleeper Rooms
  • First-Class Sleepers
  • Standard Class Sleepers
  • Reclining Seats
• Lounge Car, Food & Drink

Ticket Types

There are two types of tickets for Caledonian Sleeper travel:

• Caledonian Sleeper tickets
• Berth only supplements

Caledonian Sleeper tickets

Caledonian Sleeper tickets are available on all routes covering travel and sleeper accommodation or reclining seats.

• Book 12 months in advance for the lowest fares
• Fixed Advance tickets
• Flexible tickets
• National Railcard discounts
• Family tickets and child fares
• Flexipass multi-journey carnet
• Groups, bicycles and pets

Edinburgh at night from Calton Hill – Caledonian Sleeper London to Edinburgh sleeper berths from £90 – image: Calton Hill, Edinburgh by Raphaël Chekroun, used under CC BY-ND 2.0 DEED

Book 12 months in advance for the lowest fares

Book as early as possible for the best prices, accommodation and discounts. Fixed Advance and Flexible tickets are available 12 months in advance for £50.

Book 12 Months Advance >>

Caledonian Sleeper Fixed Advance tickets

Caledonian Sleeper Fixed Advance are the cheapest tickets but have no flexibility on travel dates.

• Fixed travel dates
• Travel first or standard class
• Available for sleepers and seats
• No changes or refunds
• National Railcard discounts are available
• Prices for each route

Fixed Advance from £50 >>

Caledonian Sleeper Flexible tickets

Caledonian Sleeper Fixed Advance costs more but has flexibility on travel dates.

• Fully refundable if cancelled two days in advance
• Travel first or standard class
• Available for sleepers and seats
• National Railcard discounts are available
• Prices for each route

Flexible from £70 >>

National Railcard discounts

National Railcard holders get 1/3 OFF Caledonian Sleeper tickets. Save money on the card itself with Railcard discount code offers:

• 16-17 Saver Railcard
• 16-25 Railcard – up to 34% discount on Club Solo and Classic Solo rooms and seats
• 26-30 Railcard
• Disabled Railcard – up to 34% off for the Railcard holder and a companion on Club or Classic shared or single rooms and seats
• Family & Friends Railcard – up to 34% off adult and 81% off child seats
• HM Forces Railcard – up to 34% discount on Club Solo and Classic Solo rooms and seats
• Senior Railcard – up to 34% discount on Club Solo and Classic Solo rooms and seats
• Two Together Railcard – up to 34% off seats

1/3 OFF with Railcards >>

Family tickets and child fares

Special offers and discounted travel for families.

Family tickets

Caledonian Sleeper Family tickets offer more space and privacy. When travelling as an odd number, the spare bed is FREE. For example, a group of three can use two adjoining twin berths with four beds.

Families also get access to First Class lounges at stations and the onboard lounge car.

Buy family tickets.

Child fares

Children aged up to four travel FREE in sleeper berths and seats. Children aged 5 to 15 get up to 80% OFF adult seat prices.

FREE child meals

Children under 12 get FREE evening meals and breakfast with one adult meal. Also, complimentary fruit is available for kids.

Flexipass multi-journey carnet

Flexipass carnet tickets offer discounts on 10 First Class journeys. SAVE up to 40% compared to buying individual tickets.

Flexipass includes:

• 10 single First Class sleeper tickets
• Give to friends or use in small groups
• Manage bookings and breakfasts online
• Valid for 12 months

Buy Flexipass carnet tickets.

Groups, bicycles and pets

Groups of nine people and more should contact Caledonian Sleeper for discounts. Secure bicycle carriage is FREE; space is limited, so book in advance. Pets can travel in berths subject to a cleaning charge.

Berth only supplements

A rail pass and National Rail ticket holders can buy Berth Supplement tickets. Berth supplements are cheaper and cover the cost of sleeper accommodation only.

Rail passes

Berth supplements are available for BritRail, Interrail passes, and Eurail passes, including Great Britain and All Line Rover rail pass holders. BritRail England pass holders can only travel between London and Carlisle.

All rail passes must be valid on the Caledonian Sleeper’s day of arrival.

National Rail tickets

National Rail Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak ticket holders can buy Berth Supplements. National Rail tickets must be marked ‘any route permitted’ and cover the journey.

Explore Glasgow’s cultural and hipster West End district. Clockwise from the top left: Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum main hall, University of Glasgow, Hunterian Art Gallery & Museum and Ashton Lane. Caledonian Sleeper London to Glasgow sleeper berths from £75 – image: © The Train Hacker/Chris P King

How to buy Caledonian Sleeper tickets

There are three ways to buy Caledonian Sleeper and Berth Supplement tickets:

1. Online from www.sleeper.scot
2. Phone 0330 060 0500 from the UK or +44 141 555 0888 from overseas
3. Train stations

Choose how you would like your tickets delivered:

• Self-print
• Post
• Collect from station self-service machines

If you choose self-print, print your ticket or show your email receipt from a smartphone or other device.

If you are buying tickets from overseas, you must select self-print or collect from self-service machines. Tickets can only be delivered by post to UK addresses.

Caledonian Sleeper: Prices

The Caledonian Sleeper does not publish prices on its website; however, these are the lowest prices I could find from dozens of searches!

The prices below are for adults travelling on the Lowland and Highland routes. Children aged 5 to 15 pay 50% of the adult price, and under 5s are FREE. These prices do not include any Railcard or other discounts.

• Lowland routes – London to/from Edinburgh and Glasgow
• Highland ways – London to/from Aberdeen, Fort William and Inverness
• Berth Supplements

Caledonian Sleeper Lowland route prices: London to/from Edinburgh and Glasgow

London to/from Edinburgh and Glasgow overnight train prices start from:

• Club Solo: single first-class sleeper rooms for one person
• Classic Solo: standard class single rooms for one person
• Classic Twin: standard class twin room for two persons, prices start from £85 per person

Buy sleeper tickets >>

Caledonian Sleeper Highland route prices: London to/from Aberdeen, Fort William or Inverness

London to/from Aberdeen, Fort William, and Inverness overnight train prices start from:

• Club Solo: single first-class sleeper rooms for one person
• Classic Solo: standard class single rooms for one person
• Classic Twin: standard class twin room for two persons, prices start from £85 per person

Berth supplements

BritRail, Interrail, All Line Rover rail pass, and National Rail ticket holders can buy Berth Supplement tickets. You must hold the correct ticket or rail pass class, e.g., Club Solo berth supplements are only for first-class ticket or rail pass holders.

Berth supplement adult tickets start from:

• Club Solo: single first-class sleeper rooms for one person
• Classic Solo: standard class single rooms for one person
• Classic Twin: standard class twin room for two persons, prices start from £85 per person

Buy sleeper tickets >>

The Train Hacker will have all the latest Caledonian Sleeper discount code offers and cheap ticket promotions.

Caledonian Sleeper: Routes and Map

The Caledonian Sleeper has two main routes to/from London: Lowland and Highland. Lowland services terminate at Edinburgh and Glasgow. Highland services terminate at Aberdeen, Fort William and Inverness.

Caledonian Sleeper Lowland routes: London to Edinburgh/Glasgow

Caledonian Sleeper route map with stops for the three Highland routes. View a larger version

Travelling northbound, the Lowland route train leaves London Euston and stops at Watford Junction and Carlisle. Across the border in Carstairs, the train splits into two. One train goes to Glasgow via Motherwell and the other to Edinburgh.

Travelling southbound, two trains leave from Glasgow and Edinburgh. Before crossing the border, the train joins. It continues, stopping at Carlisle and Watford before reaching London Euston.

For all stops, see the London to/from Edinburgh and London to/from Glasgow timetables.

Caledonian Sleeper Highland routes

The Highland routes run between London and Aberdeen, Fort William and Inverness. The northbound train splits into three to serve each destination. Heading southbound, three trains leave Scotland before joining and continuing to London Euston.

London to/from Aberdeen

London to/from Aberdeen overnight train stops include Watford Junction, Crewe, Preston, Kirkcaldy, Leuchars (for St Andrews), Dundee and Carnoustie. For all stops, see the London to/from Aberdeen timetable.

London to/from Fort William

London to/from Fort William overnight train (known as the ‘Deerstalker’) stops include Watford Junction, Crewe, Preston, Glasgow Queen Street and Dumbarton. For all stops, see the London to/from Fort William timetable.

London to/from Inverness

London to/from Inverness overnight train stops include Watford Junction, Crewe, Preston, Falkirk, Stirling, Gleneagles and Aviemore. For all stops, see the London to/from Inverness timetable.

Caledonian Sleeper: Timetables

Caledonian Sleeper timetables for Lowland routes from London to Edinburgh and Glasgow and Highland routes from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Inverness. All trains run six nights a week, excluding Saturdays.

• London to/from Edinburgh timetable
• London to/from Glasgow timetable
• London to/from Aberdeen timetable
• London to/from Fort William timetable
• London to/from Inverness timetable

London to/from Edinburgh Sleeper timetable

Overnight sleeper train timetables between London Euston and Edinburgh Waverley.

Timetables are valid from 10 December 2024 to 1 June 2025.

London Euston to Edinburgh Waverley

a Arrival time
d Departure time
* Priority boarding for Caledonian Double and Club guest rooms

Edinburgh Waverley to London Euston

a Arrival time
d Departure time

London to/from Glasgow Sleeper timetable

Overnight sleeper train timetables between London Euston and Glasgow Central.

Timetables are valid from 10 December 2024 to 1 June 2025.

London Euston to Glasgow Central

a Arrival time
d Departure time
* Priority boarding for Caledonian Double and Club guest rooms

Glasgow Central to London Euston

a Arrival time
d Departure time

London to/from Aberdeen Sleeper timetable

Overnight sleeper train timetables between London Euston and Aberdeen.

Timetables are valid from 10 December 2024 to 1 June 2025.

London Euston to Aberdeen

a Arrival time
d Departure time
* Priority boarding for Caledonian Double and Club guest rooms

Aberdeen to London Euston

a Arrival time
d Departure time

Marvel at the Highland scenery travelling on the West Highland Line with the Caledonian Sleeper. London to Fort William sleeper berths from £85 – image © The Train Hacker/Chris P King

London to/from Fort William Sleeper timetable

Overnight sleeper train timetables between London Euston and Fort William.

Timetables are valid from 10 December 2024 to 1 June 2025.

London Euston to Fort William

a Arrival time
d Departure time
r Stops on request
* Priority boarding for Caledonian Double and Club guest rooms

Fort William to London Euston

a Arrival time
d Departure time
r Stops on request

London to/from Inverness Sleeper timetable

Overnight sleeper train timetables between London Euston and Inverness.

Timetables are valid from 10 December 2024 to 1 June 2025.

London Euston to Inverness

a Arrival time
d Departure time
* Priority boarding for Caledonian Double and Club guest rooms

Inverness to London Euston

a Arrival time
d Departure time

Caledonian Sleeper Accommodation: Sleepers, Seats and Amenities

There are two kinds of accommodation: sleeper rooms and reclining seats.

• Sleeper rooms
  • First-class sleepers
  • Standard class sleepers
• Reclining seats
• Small group sleepers
• Accessible sleepers
• Toilets and showers

Take a virtual tour of first, standard and accessible sleepers and reclining seats.

Clockwise from left: Caledonian Sleeper twin-berth standard class sleeper room; comfortable top bunk bed; sink and taps which are covered by the blue shelf by the window; sleeper rooms corridor – image: © The Train Hacker/Chris P King

Sleeper rooms

First and standard-class sleeper rooms are well-equipped for a good night’s sleep. The Caledonian Sleeper has recently changed their sleeper accommodation options in advance of new sleeper compartments.

Now, there are three different types of sleeper rooms:

• Club Solo: First-class single rooms
• Classic Solo: Standard class single rooms
• Classic Twin: Standard class twin rooms

Note:

• Booking one bed in a shared twin room is no longer possible. Single travellers must book either a Club Solo or Classic Solo room
• While the sleeping arrangements and names have changed, the sleeper compartments themselves are the same (until the new sleepers roll out)

All Caledonian Sleeper rooms have the following:

• Comfortable beds with sheets, duvets and pillows
• Complimentary sleep kit
• Three storage areas:
  • The rack above the window
  • Shelf over the sink and lower bunk
• Under the bottom bed (smaller items)
• Washbasin with towel
• USB charging points for cameras and phones
• Main, reading and nightlights
• Clothes hangers
• A small bottle of mineral water

Book sleeper rooms.

Club Solo: First-class single rooms

First-class passengers enjoy single-berth air-conditioned rooms. With more space and privacy, they’re the most comfortable way to travel the Caledonian Sleeper.

First-class complimentary amenities include:

• Private air-conditioned single berth room
• Adjoining room if travelling with another person
• Arran Aromatics hand and body wash, body lotion, pillow spray
• Breakfast is served in the lounge car or room
• Priority onboard lounge car access
• Access to first-class lounges at Aberdeen, Edinburgh Waverley, Glasgow Central, Inverness and London Euston stations

Book first-class sleepers.

Classic Solo and Classic Twin: Standard class sleepers

Standard class customers enjoy:

• Air-conditioned single or twin room
• Access to lounge car (subject to space)
• Optional breakfast in the room (extra charge)
• Adjoining room if travelling with another person or family

Book standard class sleepers.

Reclining seats

Seat cars are the cheapest way to travel. Seat passenger amenities include:

• Reclining seat and footrest
• Reading lights
• Food and drink counter service
• Luggage storage

Book reclining seats.

Small group sleepers

Caledonian Sleeper automatically places a small group together in adjacent rooms when booking online

If you’re travelling in a small group, you can reserve two adjacent sleeper compartments.

• Two customers who book single rooms (either Club Solo or Club Classic) will automatically be assigned adjoining rooms
• Small groups and families will automatically be assigned adjoining rooms

Of course, small groups of adults can choose to move somewhere else!

Book adjacent sleepers online.

Accessible sleepers

Every Caledonian Sleeper train has a wheelchair-accessible sleeping compartment and toilet. The accessible sleeper room can sleep one or two people.

Contact Caledonian Sleeper to book and get help with boarding.

Toilets and showers

Male and female toilets are at the end of one corridor in each sleeping car.

There are no showers on board the Caledonian Sleeper. But there are shower facilities at all final destinations on route. Standard and seated passengers can buy £5 shower tokens on board from a steward.

Clockwise from top left: Caledonian Sleeper at Glasgow Central Station; the dining area of lounge car; sofas with large windows in lounge car; famous Scottish dish ‘haggis, neeps and tatties’ – image: © The Train Hacker/Chris P King

Caledonian Sleeper: Lounge Car, Food & Drink

Relax, unwind in the lounge car, and enjoy the best Scottish food, drink, and scenery.

Lounge car

First-class passengers and families get priority access to the lounge car. If it’s not busy, standard class passengers can use it too.

The lounge car has a restaurant with tables and chairs and an area with leather sofas. After your evening meal, you can sit back and meet other travellers.

Enjoy the scenery

The lounge car’s large, full windows make it an ideal place to admire the views and enjoy the journey.

Known as ‘The Deerstalker’, London to Fort William is one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. Between Glasgow and Fort William, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Scottish Highlands.

Food and drink

The Caledonian Sleeper menus of food and beverages are mainly sourced from Scotland.

Families enjoy FREE meals for children under 12 with paying adults.

Evening meals

Evening meals can be pre-booked online when buying tickets.

Main meals include traditional Scottish favourites like smoked salmon salad and haggis. As well as British, there’s also Asian and European-style food. To follow, choose from delicious traditional Scottish deserts or cheeseboard.

There are also sandwiches, fruit, and savoury and sweet snacks.

Drinks

The drinks menu includes an impressive selection of Scottish malt whiskies and wines. Spirits, blended whiskies, beers and cider are also on offer.

Non-alcoholic include fizzy drinks, fruit juices, mineral water, teas and coffee.

Breakfast

First-class passengers enjoy a complimentary breakfast in the lounge car or room. Standard class passengers get a hot drink and snack and can buy breakfasts.

Breakfasts include a hearty Highland, smoked salmon, bacon rolls, porridge and yoghurt.

Seated car

Seated car passengers can choose from a smaller selection of main meals, desserts, breakfasts, snacks and drinks.

Caledonian Sleeper Promo Code and Discount Offers

Arrive refreshed in the morning on the overnight train from London to Scotland. SAVE money on your journey with the 2026 Caledonian Sleeper discount code and cheap ticket offers.

Find out information about Britain’s other overnight service, the London to Cornwall Night Riviera Sleeper train.

Image: Calton Hill, Edinburgh by Raphaël Chekroun, used under CC BY-ND 2.0 DEED

The post Caledonian Sleeper Discount Code [81% OFF Cheap Tickets 2026 Promo] appeared first on The Train Hacker.

And since they’re not on high-speed lines, they’re accessible FREE or with a small reservation fee with an Interrail Pass or Eurail Pass. This means you can save some Euros to splash in the many marvellous destinations they serve.

Are you ready? Great, let’s buckle up, relax and dive in for a rollicking rollercoaster through some of Europe’s most beautiful scenic railways.

15 Most Scenic Train Journeys In Europe & How To Ride Them – Quick Links

1. West Highland Line: Glasgow to Mallaig (Britain)
2. Centovalli Railway: Locarno to Domodossola (Switzerland & Italy)
3. Cevenol Gorges Railway: Langogne to Langeac (France)
4. Berlin to Prague Line: Berlin to Prague (Germany & Czech Republic)
5. Mr Henderson’s Railway: Algeciras to Ronda (Spain)
6. The Flam Railway (Flamsbana): Myrdal to Flam (Norway)
7. Douro Valley Line (Linha do Douro): Porto to Pocinho (Portugal)
8. The Inland Train (The Inlandsbanan): Kristinehamn to Gallivare (Sweden)
9. Belgrade-Bar Railway: Belgrade to Bar (Serbia & Montenegro)
10. The Prahova Valley: Ploiesti to Brasov (Romania)
11. Septemvri-Dobrinishte: Dobrinishte to Septemvri (Bulgaria)
12. Dublin to Rosslare Railway: Dublin to Rosslare (Ireland)
13. Bernina Express: Chur to Tirano (Switzerland & Italy)
14. Rhine Valley Line: Mainz to Koblenz (Germany)
15. Arlberg Line: Innsbruck to Bludenz (Austria)

Breathtaking views of Loch Shiel from the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland, on one of Europe’s most scenic train ride, the West Highland Line – Image: © The Train Hacker images/Chris P King

1. West Highland Line: Glasgow to Mallaig (Britain)

One of the most scenic train journeys in Europe starts in the UK. Beginning from the former shipyards of the Clyde Estuary, the West Highland Line soon pitches you through wooded glens. Onwards it rides alongside Britain’s most extensive stretch of inland water, Loch Lomond.

The iconic Scottish highland landscape turns barren and boggy around Ardlui. The journey then unfolds into the stark wilderness and beauty of Rannoch Moor.

After passing through the Highland’s largest town, the outdoor activity hub of Fort William, get ready with your camera to snap the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films. While passing over the viaduct, marvel at the breathtaking scenery of Loch Shiel and the surrounding mountains.

You’ll wind up at the end of the West Highland Line on the harbour shores of Mallaig. This picturesque seaside town is a jumping-off point to Skye and many others of the Western Isles.

The scenic West Highland Line also makes our list of romantic train journeys in Britain.

How to Ride the West Highland Line Train from Glasgow to Mallaig

The regular train journey from Glasgow Queen Street to Mallaig takes approx 5 hours and 30 minutes. The shorter leg from Fort William to Mallaig on the Jacobite Steam Train Hogwarts Express takes approximately 2 hours.

Travel the West Highland Line with:

Train Tickets

Seat reservations are optional on West Highland Line trains. Book train tickets in advance with Avanti West Coast from Glasgow Queen Street to Mallaig.

Or, travel the West Highland Line on the overnight train between London and Fort William. Find out how to get cheap tickets with Caledonian Sleeper discount offers.

Rail Passes

Travel for FREE with optional seat reservations with:

• Interrail
• Eurail
• BritRail & BritRail Spirit of Scotland Passes

Tours and Holidays

Seven tours and mini breaks from Viator include travelling the shorter West Highland Line leg from Fort William to Mallaig. Travel in style on Scotland’s Harry Potter famed ‘Hogwarts Express’ Jacobite Steam Train.

• 2-Day Jacobite Experience, including the Hogwarts Express
• 3-Day Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands Tour from Edinburgh, Including’ Hogwarts Express’ Ride
• 5-Day Best of Scotland Experience from Edinburgh
• 5-Day Best of Scotland Experience from Glasgow
• 5-Day Isle of Skye, Loch Ness and the Jacobite Steam Train from Edinburgh
• 7-Day Orkney, Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh
• 8-Day Hebrides Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh

Great Rail Journeys train holidays also include the Jacobite Steam Train leg. You can also travel on the whole or other parts of the West Highland Line. Rail Discoveries have holidays incorporating the Jacobite Steam Train and the West Highland Line.

Dramatic scenery as a train crosses one of the 83 bridges on the narrow-gauge Centovalli Railway from Locarno to Domodossola – Image: NAC

2. Centovalli Railway: Locarno to Domodossola (Switzerland & Italy)

An express train in name alone, this little white narrow-gauge train clacks its way leisurely across 83 bridges and 34 tunnels across the Centovalli (the Hundred Valleys) region. Many viaducts pass high over deep, densely wooded ravines strewn with jagged rocks and waterfalls.

The train makes occasional stops on both sides of the Swiss and Italian border at tiny mountain villages and hiking points before terminating at Domodossola. This medieval pilgrimage houses a fascinating museum about the history and construction of the Simplon Railway Tunnel.

Enjoy one of Europe’s most scenic train rides all year round with panoramic carriages designed for viewing.

How to Ride the Centovalli Railway from Locarno to Domodossola

Trains from Locarno to Domodossola take approximately 2 hours. Travel the narrow-gauge Centovalli Railway with:

Rail Passes

Travel for FREE with no reservation fees with:

• Interrail Passes
• Eurail Passes
• Swiss Travel Pass and Swiss Travel Pass Flex

Train Tickets

Buy Centovalli Railway tickets in advance from Trainline or SBS.

Tours and Holidays

Great Rail Journeys and Rail Discoveries holidays include the Centovalli Railway and the Alps.

‘Le Train Touristique des Gorges de pallier entering the Génestouze tunnel on the Cevenol Gorges Railway between Langogne and Langeac – Image: Lunon

3. Cevenol Gorges Railway: Langogne to Langeac (France)

One of southern France’s most beautiful stretches of rail can be enjoyed either as a regular SNCF service or a scenic tourist train. This section is part of a longer route between Nimes and Clermont-Ferrand.

The SNCF journey can be made with an Interrail Pass or Eurail Pass. At the same time, the tourist train, ‘Le Train Touristique des Gorges de l’Allier’, goes at a slower pace with more stops and has an English audio commentary available.

Langogne is an earthy market town, swiftly followed by emerald gorges and small beaches on the banks of the River Allier. You then snake through 51 tunnels and over 16 viaducts with few signs of life, save for the odd eagle.

On the right side of the train, you glide past the pink roofs of farmhouses and chapels in hilltop volcanic villages like Pont-d’Alleyras, before the scenery shifts back to the left side of the train at Arcons d’Allier. You’ll disembark at Langeac, with its pleasant riverside waterfront and a charming cluster of churches and museums.

How to Ride the Cevenol Gorges Railway from Langogne to Langeac

The journey from Langogne to Langeac on SNCF InterCity and Regional trains takes 1 hour and 25 minutes. The tourist train completes the trip in approx 2 hours.

Rail Passes

Travel for FREE with optional seat reservations on Intercity trains with:

• Interrail Passes
• Eurail Passes

Train Tickets

Buy regular train tickets in advance with Trainline.

Find out how to book the tourist train with Le Train Touristique des Gorges de l’Allier.

The picturesque Berlin to Prague line runs alongside the spectacular River Elbe for part of the journey – Image: Thom Quine

4. Berlin to Prague Line (Germany & Czech Republic)

Two of Europe’s most famous capital cities – Berlin and Prague – are connected by an equally impressive rail route. You might not think it as you initially trundle through the crumbling industrial infrastructure of eastern Germany – although it does have a spooky charm. However, things start to change once you pass Dresden, and the landscape becomes noticeably more pastoral.

Sit on the train’s left for the best breathtaking views of the River Elbe. Highlights include the music box alpine buildings that dot the river near Bad Schandau and the sandstone peaks of the Saxon Switzerland National Park.

How to Ride the Berlin to Prague Line

The cross-border Berlin Hbf to Prague hl.n. the train takes approx 4 hours and 30 minutes. Travel the journey with:

Rail Passes

Travel for FREE or with optional seat reservation fees on daytime EuroCity services with:

• Interrail Global Pass
• Eurail Global and Select Passes

Train Tickets

Buy tickets in advance with Trainline, Deutsch Bahn or Czech Railways.

Tours and Holidays

Great Rail Journeys Berlin, Dresden and Prague holiday include travelling this scenic railway. Rail Discoveries Vienna, Prague, and Berlin holiday also incorporate the journey.

Take a stiff walk from Mr Henderson’s Railway to the white hilltop village of Gaucin on the way from Algeciras to Ronda – Image: Ian Watson

5. Mr Henderson’s Railway: Algeciras to Ronda (Spain)

Built in 1892 to connect the port town of Algeciras with Cordoba, this line takes its name from its financier Sir Alexander Henderson. The British-built train takes you through some stunning, off-the-beaten-track Andalusian scenery – considered a dangerous bandit country when American novelist Truman Capote rode through it.

You’ll pass through 16 tunnels and over 20 bridges and can spy fields of sunflowers, nesting stork colonies and towering limestone peaks policed by eagles, buzzards and vultures.

Highlights include the dramatic hills and densely forested valleys just north of San Pablo on the edge of Alcornocales Natural Park, Europe’s largest cork forest.

Stop off at some of the many tempting trackside dining stops at stations along the route, or if you’re feeling spry, hike 14 kilometres down to the picturesque white hilltop village of Gaucin Pueblo.

Back on board, look for some interesting Victorian railway memorabilia harking back to the train’s British origins.

How to Ride Mr Henderson’s Railway from Algeciras to Ronda

Mr Henderson’s Railway from Algeciras to Ronda takes approx 1 hour and 50 minutes on Renfe Medium Distance trains. Altaria trains do the route 20 minutes quicker. You can travel it with:

Rail Passes

Both Renfe services need seat reservations with extra fees with:

• Interrail Passes
• Eurail Passes
• Renfe Spain Pass

Train Tickets

Buy tickets in advance with Trainline or Renfe.

Take the Flamsbana from Myrdal to Flam for a spectacular ride through Norway’s wild mountain and fjord scenery – Image: beyondmagazine

6. The Flam Railway’ Flamsbana’: Myrdal to Flam (Norway)

The Flamsbana (The Flam Railway) is one of the steepest standard-track railway lines in the world, where almost 80% of the journey has a gradient of 5.5%. It’s a spectacular train journey that offers a panoramic view of some of the wildest Norwegian fjord landscapes.

The Flamsbana whisks you through 20 tunnels, from the ocean-side view at Sognefjord, past steep peaks and waterfalls, to the top of a mountain at Myrdal, 867 metres above sea level, all in under one hour.

From Myrdal, you can transfer to the almost as dramatic Oslo – Bergen line or return to Flam.

The Flam Railway’s fjord scenery makes it a solid choice for one of Europe’s scenic train rides.

How to Ride the Flam Railway from Myrdal to Flam

The rail journey from Myrdal to Flam takes approx 1 hour. Travel on the Flamsbana with:

Rail Passes

Get a 30% discount on fares with:

• Interrail Passes
• Eurail Passes

Train Tickets

Buy train tickets in advance with ACP Rail or Vy.

Tours and Holidays

Experience The Flam Railway with Viator tours:

• Private Tour to Sognefjord, Gudvangen and Flam from Bergen
• Norway in a Nutshell – Roundtrip from Oslo to Oslo
• From Bergen to Oslo Day Trip
• Norway in a Nutshell – Roundtrip from Bergen to Bergen

Great Rail Journeys have three holidays that, include the Flam Railway. Rail Discoveries Essential Norway also travels The Flam Railway.

Travel one of Europe’s most scenic train rides, the Douro Valley Line between Porto and Pocinho, Portugal – Image: Nelso Silva

7. Douro Valley Line ‘Linha do Douro’: Porto to Pocinho (Portugal)

The Douro Valley, famed for its port production and vineyard tasting tours, is best seen from this train. From its launch point at Ermesinde, a railway town 15km north of Porto, the 160km journey goes through the verdant heart of the Alto Douro Wine Region.

The train follows the course of the River Douro upstream, through 20 tunnels and over 30 bridges, with many stations being little more than shelters for local quintas (villas on wine estates). The route’s most scenic stretch unfurls between Regua and Pocinho. Here the train clings to the river banks, perched above jagged rocks in the Douro Gorge.

How to Ride the Linha do Douro (Douro Valley Line) from Ermesinde to Pocinho

The rail journey from Ermesinde to Pocinho takes approx 3 hours and 10 minutes. Travel the Douro Valley Line with:

Rail Passes

Travel for FREE with no reservation fee:

• Interrail Passes
• Eurail Passes

Train Tickets

Inter-Regional trains from Porto travel via Ermesinde and on to Pocinho. All trains from Porto Campanha and some from Porto Sao Bento take this route.

Buy train tickets in advance with Portuguese Railways.

Tours and Holidays

Experience the Linha do Douro with Viator tours:

• Day Trip from Porto to Regua by Train and Return by Boat
• Sunday Trip from Porto to Regua by Train and Return by Boat

Great Rail Journeys Portugal and The Douro holiday includes a trip on the railway. And Rail Discoveries Lisbon, Porto & The Douro also travels the Douro Valley Line.

The Inlandsbanan travels Sweden’s interior 1,300 km in the summer months from Kristinehamn to Gallivare – Image: Inlandsbanan

8. The Inland Train ‘The Inlandsbanan’: Kristinehamn to Gallivare (Sweden)

Chase the midnight sun as you rattle 1,300 km through Sweden’s interior during the summer months between June and August. Departing from Kristinehamn, the train takes in the sea, dense forests, lakes and mountains, not to mention vast swathes of wonderfully desolate backdrops, as it steers a line up to Gallivare.

Gallivare is a mining town in the Arctic Circle enveloped by forests and deeply enmeshed with the local Sami culture. Look out for reindeer, elk and even bears on a long journey, making semi-spontaneous stops for refreshment and photo opportunities.

Although it’s only open for four months of the year, the Inland Train is still one of Europe’s most impressive rail journeys.

How to Ride The Inlandsbanan (The Inland Train) from Kristinehamn to Gallivare

The journey from Kristinehamn to Gallivare takes one and a half days. Travel across three legs between Kristinehamn, Mora, Ostersund and Gallivare.

The scenic Inlandsbanan railway only opens from mid-June to the end of August. Travel The Inland Train with:

Rail Passes

Seat reservations with charges are optional but recommended for:

• Interrail Passes
• Eurail Passes
• Inlandsbanan Card

Train Tickets

Buy train tickets in advance with Inlandsbanan.

Tours and Holidays

Great Rail Journeys, Arctic Circle Express, and Grand Arctic Circle Explorer holidays include travelling on The Inland Train.

The spectacular Mala Rijeka Viaduct on the Belgrade-Bar train line is the highest railway bridge in Europe – Image: Halavar

9. Belgrade-Bar Railway: Belgrade to Bar (Serbia & Montenegro)

As you pull away from the Serbian capital, you probably won’t notice you’re on one of Europe’s best-rated scenic train rides until you reach the sloping hills of Uzice. From here, you’ll crisscross the Bosnian border via the remote villages of Zlatibor after passing through the six km-long Zlatibor Tunnel.

Around Prijepolje, the mighty Zlatar and Jadovnik mountains make their presence known. The highest stretch of the journey hits its peak at Kosalin, a popular ski and hiking resort.

There are a staggering 254 tunnels and 435 bridges to enjoy on this 296-mile journey. The bridges include the 498-metre-long Mala Rijeka viaduct, one of the world’s highest, pitched nearly 200 metres above the ground. After passing through Montenegro’s capital Podgorica and skirting Lake Skadar, the train goes through its final tunnel before tracing the Adriatic coast to Bar.

How to Ride the Belgrade-Bar Railway from Belgrade to Bar

The rail journey from Belgrade to Bar takes approx 12 hours. Travel the route with:

Rail Passes

It’s recommended but not essential to book reservations on daytime trains and applies to:

• Interrail Passes
• Eurail Passes

Train Tickets

Train tickets from Belgrade to Bar are not available online. Find out train times and how to book tickets at Serbian Railways.

Travel through the lush Prahova Valley before climbing the Bucegi Mountains on the rail journey from Ploiesti to Brasov  – Image: Gabriel

10. The Prahova Valley: Ploiesti to Brasov (Romania)

The stately pace of trains in Romania lends itself perfectly to scenic excursions. Emerging from the flat Wallachian Plains surrounding Ploiesti, the train heads up the Prahova Valley, snaking through narrow passages before climbing up the Bucegi Mountains towards Sinaia. Like the famous Peles Palace, this attractive town is adorned with fairytale buildings.

The train then rolls on through hiking mecca Busteni and the 100-metre-high Predeal Pass. You cross into Transylvania before making the downhill chug to Brasov, a historical hotspot heavy with walled citadels and medieval grandeur.

Although it’s a relatively short ride, the Ploiesti to Brasov railway is a worthy addition to Europe’s most scenic train rides.

How to Ride the Ploiesti to Brasov Train Through the Prahova Valley

The rail journey from Ploiesti Vest to Brasov takes between 1 hour 44 minutes and 2 hours 37 minutes. Travel the railway with:

Rail Passes

Slower InterRegio (IR) trains do not require reservations. Faster InterCity (IC) trains do for a small fee which applies to rail passes:

• Interrail Global and Romania Passes
• Eurail Global, Select and Romania Passes

The Eurail Select Two Country Pass Montenegro/Serbia/Romania includes Romania.

Train Tickets

Buy train tickets in advance with the following:

• Voyages-SNCF (UK & Europe)
• Rail Europe
• Romanian Railways – CFR Caile Ferate Romane

A train travelling across the longest bridge on the picturesque narrow-gauge railway from Septemvri to Dobrinishte – Image: Bdz43r

11. Septemvri-Dobrinishte Railway: Dobrinishte to Septemvri (Bulgaria)

Bulgaria certainly gives Romania a run for its money in the snail-paced train stakes, but relax – it’s not about the speed; it’s all about the views! And this narrow-gauge line is a bona fide scenic feast.

Setting out from the small ski resort of Dobrinishte (or starting further up the line at Bankso) in the shadow of the Pirin Mountains, the train first creeps beneath the snow-capped Rila Mountains.

It then winds its way through deciduous forests and farmland, past picture-book minarets and the spa town of Velingrad. The train then plunges into the deep Velingrad Gorge before levelling on the Plain of Thrace.

The journey ends at Septemvri, a modest village connected to Bulgaria’s capital Sofia and the second city, Plovdiv. Plovdiv offers some fascinatingly quirky architecture and an impressive Roman amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved in the world.

How to Ride the Septemvri-Dobrinishte Narrow-Gauge Railway

The journey from Dobrinishte to Septemvri takes between 4 hours and 30 minutes and 5 hours.

Rail Passes

Rail passes do not require reservations:

• Interrail Global and Bulgaria Passes
• Eurail Global, Select and Bulgaria Passes

Romania is also included in the Bulgaria/Montenegro/Serbia Eurail Select Two Country Pass.

Train Tickets

Train tickets from Dobrinishte to Septemvri are not available to buy online. Find out more about tickets at BDZ – Bulgarian State Railways.

Train hugging the coast as it snakes its way out of Dublin into Wicklow on its way south to Rosslare – Image: Irish Rail

12. Dublin to Rosslare Railway: Dublin to Rosslare (Ireland)

This railway was built by Isambard Kingdom Brunel in 1855 to connect Ireland and the ferry line between Rosslare and Fishguard in Wales. The stretch between Bray and Wicklow hugs the contours of the coast so snugly that new tunnels and viaducts were repeatedly reconfigured.

The line switches from double to single track at Bray Head before looping inland through the wooded foothills of the Wicklow Mountains. It rejoins the coast at Arklow at the mouth of River Avoca, where it crosses the Nineteen Arches Bridge.

The train then powers down through the agricultural landscape of the Bann Valley and the lusher Slaney Valley before finally clattering along the quayside to Rosslare Harbour.

How to Ride the Dublin to Rosslare Railway

The journey from Dublin Connolly to Rosslare Europort takes approx 2 hours and 50 minutes. Travel the railway with:

Rail Passes

Reservations are possible but not required on InterCity trains in Ireland and apply to:

• Interrail Global and Ireland Passes
• Eurail Global, Select and Ireland Passes

Train Tickets

Buy train tickets in advance with the following:

• Irish Rail – Iarnrod Eireann

Spectacular high-mountain Alpine scenery meets the Mediterranean atmosphere of the Poschiavo Valley on the Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano – Image: swissrailways

13. Bernina Express: Chur to Tirano (Switzerland & Italy)

The Bernina Express slices southerly through the Graubunden Canton, reaching the lofty altitude of 2,253 metres at its highest point – without the gravity boost of a cogwheel track. The train passes through an ingenious system of spiral loops, 55 tunnels and 196 bridges.

You’re treated to diverse views, from the high Alpine scenery at the Bernina Pass to the Mediterranean atmosphere of the Poschiavo Valley en route to Tirano.

Highlights include crossing the spectacularly curved Landwasser viaduct and the rugged Alpine landscapes as you ascend the Bernina Pass.

The dramatic descent follows magnificent views of the Palu glacier before arriving at Switzerland’s Italian-style border valleys. The final drop travels through the famous Brusio spiral viaduct before crossing the border and arriving in Tirano.

The Bernina Express’ breathtaking landscapes make it a highly cited scenic rail journey in Europe.

How to Ride the Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano

The Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano takes approx 4 hours and 15 minutes. The only non-stop direct train departs Chur at 08.32 and arrives at Tirano at 12.45.

 There are other Bernina Express departures to Tirano from Davos and St Moritz.

Travel the scenic Chur to Tirano route in a panoramic viewing train with:

Rail Passes

Bernina Express seat reservations cost between 10 and 14 Swiss Francs and apply to:

• Interrail Global and Switzerland Passes
• Eurail Global, Select and Switzerland Passes
• Swiss Travel Pass and Swiss Travel Pass Flex

Regular trains also travel the route, but you must change trains at Samedan and Pontresina. There aren’t any reservation fees on regular trains.

Train Tickets

You will need seat reservations (cost 10 to 14 Swiss Francs) and a train ticket. Buy Bernina Express tickets in advance with the following:

• Trainline
• Rail Europe
• RhB – Rhaetian Railway

Tours & Holidays

There are four Bernina Express tours on Viator that travel between St Moritz and Milan:

• Swiss Alps Bernina Express Rail Tour from Milan
• Swiss Alps Bernina Express Rail Tour from Milan with Hotel Pick Up
• 3-Day Bernina Express Independent Tour from Zurich
• 3-Day Bernina Express Independent Tour from Geneva

Great Rail Holidays has 17 holidays that ride the Bernina Express. At the same time, Rail Discoveries has nine holidays that include the trip.

Travel through idyllic, picture-postcard German countryside on the Rhine Valley Line from Mainz to Koblenz – Image: Eurail

14. Rhine Valley Line: Mainz to Koblenz (Germany)

This section of the West Rhine Railway leaves the sedate university town of Mainz to follow a meandering path on the west bank of the River Rhine. You’re treated to picture-postcard views of centuries-old castles as you travel through some idyllic German wine country.

Look out for Pfalzgrafenstein Castle on an island on the Rhine, justly famous for its picturesque setting.

The route passes countless sloping vineyards and ducks through the occasional tunnel before arriving at the 2,000-year-old town of Koblenz, where the Rhine meets the Moselle.

How to Ride the Rhine Valley Line from Mainz to Koblenz

The journey takes 50 minutes on InterCity and 1 hour 30 minutes on Regional trains.

Rail Passes

Seat reservations are not required for the following:

• Interrail Global and Germany Passes
• Eurail Global and Select Passes
• German Rail Pass from DB

Train Tickets

Buy tickets in advance with the following:

• Trainline
• Rail Europe
• Voyages-SNCF (UK & Europe)

A train travelling across the Inn Bridge in Landeck, Austria, on the scenic Arlberg Railway from Innsbruck to Bludenz – Image: Siegele Roland

15. Arlberg Line: Innsbruck to Bludenz (Austria)

Last but not least, no list of the most scenic train journeys in Europe would be complete without mention of Austria’s Arlberg Line. The Arlberg Line transports you through typically Tyrolean scenery, starting from the high alpine setting of Innsbruck, through the hub of Landeck and via Langen am Arlberg at over 1,200 metres above sea level on one of Europe’s steepest passenger lines.

Journey highlights include the Trisanna Bridge, the Paznuan Valley (renowned as ‘the birthplace of Alpine skiing’) and the ten km-long Arlberg Tunnel.

Afterwards, you might also fancy journeying to Zurich via Liechtenstein, along the shore of Lake Zurich.

How to Ride the Arlberg Line from Innsbruck to Bludenz

The Arlberg Line from Innsbruck to Bludenz is served by Rail Jet, Euro City and InterCity trains. The journey takes between 1 hour and 45 minutes and 2 hours.

Innsbruck to Zurich takes three and a half hours with Rail Jet.

Rail Passes

Seat reservations are optional and not required on all services in Austria for:

• Interrail Global and Austria Passes
• Eurail Global, Select and Austria Passes

Train Tickets

Seat reservations are optional for travel on the Arlberg Line. Buy in advance with:

• Trainline
• Rail Europe
• Voyages-SNCF (UK & Europ)

Tours and Holidays

Travel on the Arlberg Line with the Grand Alpine Explorer holiday from Great Rail Journeys:

We could easily go on, but we hope this list demonstrates the sheer diversity and stunning beauty of the best of Europe’s scenic train rides.

Remember that these magical journeys can be enjoyed using an Interrail or Eurail pass, giving you a comfortable, relaxing way to take in some of the continent’s finest scenic spots without busting the budget.

Thanks to Jools Stone and Graham Spicer for their creative writing and editing on this article.

Image credits: NAC, Lunon, Thom Quine, Ian Watson, beyondmagazine, Nelso Silva, Inlandsbanan, Halavar, Gabriel, Bdz43r, Irish Rail, Rhaetian Railway, Eurail, Siegele Roland

The post 15 Most Scenic Train Journeys in Europe and How to Ride Them appeared first on The Train Hacker.

These days Pullman carriages and steam locos have been replaced by high-speed trains and shared sleeper carriages. But this can’t detract from the adventure and excitement of crossing Europe west to east, waking up on your final morning in Istanbul, a remarkable city where continents collide.

If you go flat out, the 2,000-mile journey from London to Istanbul by train can be made in three nights, but doing it this way means you won’t have a chance to stop en route and explore some fantastic locations en route.

I’d recommend a couple of overnight city stops en route with an Interrail Pass for travel flexibility. This way, you can do the whole journey plus a break in Istanbul in a week.

Interrailing from London to Istanbul by Train – Quick Links

• Route Planning – London to Istanbul by Train
• Interrail Global Pass, Supplements and Reservations
• Connection Tips for the Journey
• Arriving in Istanbul – Visas, Relaxation and Sightseeing

If you’re planning an Interrail trip from London to Istanbul by train, you will need to take a Eurostar to continental Europe before you start an Interrail Pass – © The Train Hacker images/Chris P King

Route Planning – London to Istanbul by Train

There is no one set way to get from London to Istanbul by train. But we’re assuming you want to take a reasonably direct route. You’ll first need to decide whether to go via Belgrade and Sofia or via Bucharest.

There are several ways to get either way, but apart from the fixed start and endpoints, I suggest you make Budapest a central hub for your London to Istanbul train journey.

In many ways, it’s the first place where east Europe meets west. Before Budapest, you can ride on some of Europe’s most advanced high-speed trains. After Budapest, the pace slows, and the languages and culture become more unfamiliar: Cyrillic script replaces the Latin alphabet in many places, and the food and even religion changes.

So, if you take our advice and travel via Budapest, you’ve got two main route-planning decisions to make: getting from London to Budapest and getting from Budapest to Istanbul.

London to Budapest by Train

Depending on how well you know Western Europe, you may want to make this part of the journey as quick as possible and spend more time in Eastern Europe. Part of the fun of the adventure is seeing the culture, landscape and architecture change along the way, so we’d advise a bit of time in the cities en route to Budapest, even if it’s a quick look around while you’re waiting for a connecting train.

There are three main ways I’d recommend getting to Budapest: which I call the northern, central and southern routes.

The Central Route – London to Budapest by Train

This is the simplest way. Take the Eurostar from London straight to Paris, then take the sleeper from Paris down to Munich in Germany. From here, a daytime train will take you to Budapest to arrive on the evening of day two.

If you leave in the morning of day one, you’ll have a chance to look around Paris and should have time for breakfast in Munich before heading eastwards.

You could, of course, spend an overnight stop in Paris first to get your first taste of the continent before moving on. And Munich – the capital of Bavaria – is a great city that warrants extra time in them if you want to extend your adventure and soak up the atmosphere.

Indeed, if you’re travelling in late September or early October, you’d be foolish not to stop to experience Munich’s world-famous Oktoberfest.

Sample Budapest’s nightlife at the restaurants and bars in the courtyards  and alleyways of Gozsdu Udvar – Image Credit: vilipix

The Northern Route – London to Budapest by Train

But if, like me, you’ve been to Paris a few times already, you might want to do things a little differently and try the northern route.

Take the Eurostar to Brussels instead of Paris, and after a look around and maybe a lunch of moules frites by the Grand Place, head across the German border to change trains again at Cologne.

You’ll have time for dinner in this handsome city – boasting the world’s tallest Gothic cathedral – before catching an overnight sleeper train southeast to Vienna.

Have a leisurely breakfast or quick lunch in Vienna before changing trains to head east to Budapest and arrive on the evening of day two.

As with the Paris route, you could extend your trip with an overnight in Brussels or Cologne, but there’s probably slightly less in either of these cities to justify the extra night at this stage.

An extra option on the northern route is to change trains immediately in Vienna and take the train straight to Bratislava, Slovakia’s compact and pretty capital city. If you don’t tarry in Vienna, you can reach Bratislava for lunch in the old town before continuing in the early afternoon to Budapest.

The Southern Route – London to Budapest by Train

A third option is to take the southern route from Paris and overnight through southeastern France into Switzerland to change trains in Zurich the following day.

The disadvantage of this route is that it forces you to complete the second stage of the journey via Belgrade. But if that’s where you were planning to visit anyway, then this route could work for you, and Zurich is a delightful spot to break the journey.

Budapest to Istanbul by Train

For the second leg of the journey, I’m assuming you’re travelling via Budapest, and I will talk you through the two options: Belgrade and Bucharest. Both are equally enjoyable, so it all depends on which destinations en route take your fancy.

If you’ve taken the central or southern routes for the first leg of your journey, then there is another way to take, which I’ll detail later.

The Belgrade Way – Budapest to Istanbul by Train

This route takes you from Budapest southeast into Serbia, where after a complete overnight trip, you’ll arrive in Belgrade by mid-morning. I’d heartily recommend an overnight stop in the vibrant Serbian capital, but if you’re stretched for time, you can head onward through the country’s length to cross over into Bulgaria the same day.

Be warned, though, although it’s possible to do it this way, you’ll miss out on one of Europe’s most exciting cities. And what’s more, the daytime journey from Belgrade to Sofia is long, slow and, if done in the summer months, incredibly hot and crowded.

After Belgrade, you’ll be heading onward into Bulgaria. Here you can either stop in Sofia, the capital or continue through to cross the Turkish border to complete the journey to Istanbul.

A further option is to change trains in Sofia and stop overnight in Plovdiv. You can spend a leisurely day in Bulgaria’s elegant, historic and friendly second city before your overnight train into Turkey.

Older man playing the violin in Bucharest, a great city to explore by train on the way from London to Istanbul – Image credit: nicubunuphotos

The Bucharest Way – Budapest to Istanbul by Train

The other way from Budapest to Istanbul is via Romania. The route from Budapest to the Romanian capital Bucharest takes you over some picturesque mountain scenery, and you’ll find the trains some of the best to be experienced in Eastern Europe, with comfortable sleeper cars and buffet cars serving very reasonably priced full-cooked-to-order meals.

Despite what some guidebooks say, Bucharest may be a little rough around the edges, but it is definitely worth spending some time in; it’s a fascinating mix of 19th-century elegance and monolithic communist-era architecture.

From Bucharest, it’s a long slog over to Istanbul and best done by catching the sleeper train, which first takes you briefly into Bulgaria before continuing into Turkey and your final destination.

Other Route Choices – London to Istanbul by Train

It’s not compulsory to travel via Budapest. Other options include using Salzburg in Austria as your central hub. From here, instead of continuing to Budapest, where the journey splits, you can head southeast and make your way to Belgrade via the Slovenian capital Ljubljana and the Croatian capital Zagreb.

Both are fascinating cities with a lot going for them, so if you’ve visited Budapest before, you may like to take this option. Otherwise, I would recommend going via Budapest. Something about it makes it feel like the perfect mid-point of the trip, and its size and grandeur make it really special.

Interrail Global Pass, Supplements and Reservations

As you’ll be visiting more than one country, you’ll need an Interrail global pass.

There are several types of global passes, but the good news is that it is possible to make the entire journey on the 5-days in one month Interrail global pass.

Prices depend on age and start at just £196 if you’re 27 or under.

Do be aware, though, that you’ll need to pay for some supplements on top of this. The super fast trains of western Europe like TGV, Thalys and ICE all incur extra charges.

Also, as you’re starting your journey, you must purchase Eurostar tickets as they’re not included in an Interrail Pass. You can get Eurostar tickets from £39 to Paris or Brussels if you book in advance.

And if you’re spending the night in a sleeper car, there will naturally be further supplements.

You’d be wise to arrange all your reservations and sleeper arrangements for Western Europe (anything west of Budapest) before travelling, especially in the summer months. There is more flexibility in Eastern Europe, and you can get away with making reservations just before you travel.

Connection Tips for the London to Istanbul by Train Journey

On a long Interrail train journey like the trip from London to Istanbul, there are several connections where you may have a short time in a new city before catching your onward train.

You’ll want to make the most of your time, so planning ahead will pay dividends.

My top recommendation is to ensure you’ve got a day bag and your main luggage. Before you arrive for a connection, get it packed so you can head straight for the left luggage as soon as you arrive.

If travelling within the EU, get a few Euro coins handy. Otherwise, you may have to head for an ATM quickly, get some cash, and then visit a newsstand to break a note for some coins for the left luggage.

If you’ve got to change stations, as you do in Vienna, for example, then get to your new station and drop your bags first before attempting to explore the city.

Do your research before you arrive, and don’t be too ambitious. Pick a couple of sights near the station. You don’t want to explore too far from the station and then have a dash back to catch your connection if you get lost or waylaid.

Sometimes it’s more enjoyable to find a pleasant cafe near the station, recharge with a meal or a coffee and snack, and watch the world go by rather than dashing around a new city worrying about returning in time. If you want to get a flavour of the places you stop in, you don’t need to follow the whole tourist trail.

Take a trip up the Galata Tower to see a wonderful panoramic view of Istanbul which encompasses both Europe and Asia – Image credit: Juraj Patekar

Arriving in Istanbul

Reaching your final destination is incredibly exciting. You’ll have covered the whole of Europe from west to east and seen the culture slowly change. The last leg into Turkey is something of an adventure in itself.

Border Controls

The best option to do this is on a night train, but don’t expect a good night’s sleep as you’ll have to stop at the Turkish border and get out at the station to get your passport stamped. You’ll need to ensure you’ve arranged a Turkish visa first, as the days to purchase one at the border are numbered.

Back on board, you should be able to get a couple of hours more sleep before waking well on the way to Istanbul. You’ll first cross the Thracian plain – the European part of Turkey – before arriving in the suburbs before the sprawling city appears.

Final Destination

Unfortunately, the historic Sirkeci Station – the original destination of the Orient Express – has now closed, and arrival in Istanbul is not nearly as atmospheric as it used to be.

And because of significant engineering work to accommodate the new underground train tunnel linking the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, the final train stop is in flux. You’ll need to check carefully before making the journey.

Despite this, once you’ve finally arrived in Istanbul, you won’t be disappointed, and you really should schedule at least a couple of nights in the city before moving on.

Once You Arrive – Istanbul Sightseeing Tips

After the long overnight journey to Istanbul – and the sometimes tiring overall trip – there’s no better way to feel human again than taking a trip to one of the city’s historical Turkish baths. One of the best is the Cemberlitas Hammam, housed in a beautiful old structure next to the Grand Bazaar.

After a long Interrailing train journey from Western Europe, take some time out to relax in one of Istanbul’s historical Turkish baths – Image credit: miguelvirkkunen

There’s so much to see and do in Istanbul we couldn’t possibly do it justice here, but to quickly get yourself oriented, you can do no better than head up the Galata Tower. Here the views stretch across a minaret-studded panorama from Europe to Asia, and you can really reflect on how far you’ve come.

You’ll likely want a good meal and time to relax and recharge. My top tip is to avoid the tourist traps in the historic Sultanahmet area – where most of the main sights like the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar are concentrated – and head across the Golden Horn to Istiklal Street, where the locals come to shop, dine and go out.

One of the most famous dining areas is Cicek Pasaj, a wonderfully evocative old arcaded street where you can eat traditional mezze and be serenaded by gipsy musicians. An even better tip, however, is to pop just around the corner to Nevizade Sokak – this is where a younger crowd hangs out, and the vibe is more authentic, and the food and service arguably better.

Aside from that, pack a good guidebook – Top Ten Istanbul (from DK Eyewitness Travel) is an excellent option for a short trip as it cuts out all the extraneous detail that the Rough Guides and Lonely Planets tend to pack in – and try to cram as much as you can in before you return home.

And if you’re really adventurous, you could even go back from Istanbul to London by train with Interrail, tracing a different route back through the Balkans!

Image credits: vilipix, nicubunuphotos, Juraj Patekar, miguelvirkkunen

The post London to Istanbul by Train: European Rail Pass and Route Options appeared first on The Train Hacker.

Here are 15 reasons why Interrail is the best way to travel to Europe.

1. Experiencing the Journey

“I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.

So wrote Robert Louis Stevenson, and who are we to disagree?

In an age of information at your fingertips and low-cost air travel, the distance between places has seemed to shrink. You can arrive at an airport terminal in a totally different country with no real sense of the leap in cultures you’ve just made.

Travelling by train lets you slow down and experience the journey for what it is, with time to think and appreciate national and regional differences as they unfold before you.

And whether it’s a week-long trip or a whole month, Interrail brings a genuine spirit of adventure and discovery to European travel.

Europe has some fantastic long-distance train trips which can be covered quickly – Image credit: poeloq

2. Travelling Long Distances by Train

There’s no doubt that trains are physically slower than air travel, but they can still cover long distances relatively quickly. For short to medium trips, for example, Paris to Munich (a journey of six hours by high-speed train), once you’ve dispensed with all the mucking about in airport terminals and security, the train journey isn’t actually that much longer.

And there’s a real feeling of satisfaction about crossing international borders by rail. When the border guards come on board to check your tickets, you know you’re really travelling.

3. Travel in Comfort

Interrailing is probably the most comfortable way to see Europe. It beats long-distance coaches or driving by yourself, hands down. There’s also much more legroom and scope to get up and move around than you get with planes.

Add in a couchette or sleeper compartment, and you can also get a pretty decent night’s sleep as well. And you can even book first-class Interrail travel if you want extra comfort.

Also, don’t forget that many services have a pretty decent buffet and restaurant cars. You might think you only get this comfort level in western European train travel, but that’s not always true. Take the Bucharest to Budapest overnight train – it boasts comfortable sleeper carriages, clean toilets and an excellent restaurant car serving delicious hot food.

Travelling Europe on an Interrail train trip is a great way to meet travellers and locals – Image credit: rbos

4. Meet Fellow Travellers

Interrailing is a great way to meet people. Everybody seems much friendlier when you travel by train. Maybe it’s because it’s a more relaxed way to go, and you’re bound to meet plenty of like-minded people keen to experience the continent with a sense of adventure.

The physical layout of train carriages also means that there’s more chance for you to get chatting. It’s an excellent opportunity to share stories and traveller tips and learn first-hand about some of the highlights of the destinations you’re travelling to. And it’s not just fellow travellers you’re likely to meet; train journeys are also a great way to meet locals.

5. Flexible Ticket Options

In the early days of Interrail, you could only buy one basic type of ticket – a one-month pass covering all the countries signed up to Interrail. The advantage of this was unlimited travel to almost everywhere in Europe for a whole month with few restrictions. But not everyone can take advantage of this, so Interrail offers more flexible ticket options these days.

Choose a pass letting you go to all countries in the Interrail network or focus on one country. And choose from a range of continuous ticket durations or opt for a flexi pass, with unlimited travel on a fixed number of days.

Interrail has limitless travel options in Europe; visit Rome as part of a grand tour of Europe or on a tour of Italy – © The Train Hacker images/Chris P King

6. Grand Tour or In-Depth Discovery

Because of the flexibility of Interrail tickets, you can choose the style and pace of your adventure.

If you’re a first-time Interrailer and have plenty of time, you could take a grand tour of Europe. Tick off as many countries and capitals as you can in a month – a whirlwind adventure that will give you a great overall flavour of the continent.

Or plan a regional tour, for example, taking a route around the Balkans or exploring Scandinavia by rail.

It’s also really rewarding to spend your time getting to know one country intimately. Travel further afield from its capital and main sights to explore its countryside and regions by train. It’s a fantastic way to get immersed in the local culture.

Whichever style of trip you take, Interrail offers you the flexibility to turn your plans into rail reality.

7. Not Just for Students and Young People

You don’t have to be young or a student to buy an Interrail pass. Interrail passes are available to all. Ticket prices vary depending on age, but they are still great value for anyone. You’ll find a great mix of ages and nationalities Interrailing around Europe.

Interrailing for the second time is widespread, and anyone over 60 can get special discounted ‘senior’ tickets. These are 10% less than regular adult tickets.

Moreover, Interrail has recently made it easier for families to travel as up to two children up to the age of 11 can travel for free with one adult. An overnight train trip is a great adventure for kids, and you can book a whole couchette for the family.

Interrailing is a great way to travel Europe by train if you’re on a tight budget – Image credit: environmentblog

8. Cost-Effective Travel

Interrail travel is great-value. If you’re making a simple one-stop journey in Europe, you’ll likely be better off buying an individual ticket. Still, if you have more complicated, multi-stop trips, then you’re almost always better off with an Interrail pass.

If you’re looking for some downtime at the beach, you can swap the pricey French Riviera for Bulgaria or other Eastern European beaches. With the freedom of an Interrail pass, you can travel to places where your budget will go further.

And while individual low-cost airline tickets may be relatively cheap these days, making the sort of journeys that an Interrail pass lends itself to would soon have you racking up a monster credit card bill.

9. Massive Variety and Contrasts

Europe boasts 50-plus countries and dozens of languages, and myriad cultural differences. It may be just on our doorstep, but a world of difference and variety is just waiting to be explored. From the sunny shores of Greece to the glaciers of Norway, all can be discovered on an Interrail trip.

And it’s not just the differences between countries that are to be celebrated; the regional differences within countries can be huge. For example, the beaches of the south of France and the windswept Brittany coasts are miles apart, but both are incredibly beautiful and easy to reach by train. Italy’s regional cuisine is to be savoured, and the patchwork of cultures and sights in the Balkans is truly remarkable.

Travel broadens your view of the world, and that is only a good thing – Image credit: davidrosenphotography

10. Broadens Your View of the World

“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.”

– Mark Twain, The Innocents Abroad.

Travel is a great leveller, and it indeed broadens your view of the world. Meet new people. Discover other cultures and ways of doing things. Revel in the small differences that make Europe so fascinating.

11. Get to Know Lesser-Known Parts of Europe

Air travel lends itself to visiting capital cities and big regional hubs. It’s all too easy to miss some of the unsung cities and towns and delve into the countryside.

Because Europe’s rail networks are so extensive, you can easily explore the continent’s hidden corners. Some countries have comprehensive rail networks, such as Germany and France, which will take you far off the beaten track.

Travelling by train ensures you arrive in the heart of the city, such as the Santa Lucia railway station in Venice, which is metres away from the Grand Canal

12. Arrive in the Heart of the Action

Train stations are almost always in the centre of town, so Interrailing takes straight into the heart of the action. Dispense with airport shuttle buses and flying to obscure airports miles away from your actual destination that budget airlines often operate to.

Stepping off a long-distance train onto one of Europe’s grand old railway stations in the centre of a new city is one of the great pleasures of Interrailing. A few more steps and you’re in the thick of it, and there will also be plenty of hotels, hostels and places to eat within easy reach of the station.

If you’re on a tight schedule and only have time for a few hours in one destination before moving on, the fact that you’re dead central means you can drop your bags in the station’s left luggage facilities and get out and get a flavour of the city in a short space of time.

13. Avoid the Misery of European Airports

Europe’s airports include some of the world’s busiest. And if you’re travelling in the summer, they only get worse. And in the enhanced security measures we must go through, you’re looking at longer check-in times and long queues. There’s nothing worse than a long delay when stuck at a busy airport, where all the facilities seem designed to suck up your money.

Travelling through Europe by train means you can avoid all this, and in many cases, you don’t even need to show your passport as you cross international borders. In other cases, border guards will come on board and check your passports while you’re still moving.

Avoid lengthy airport transfers and added costs and travel straight to your destination.

Interrail gives you the freedom to roam Europe by rail and plan your trip on the go – Image credit: pitel

14. Freedom to Change Your Trip as You Go

Some of us get almost as much of a kick out of planning an overseas trip as we do experiencing it. And that’s great – an Interrail trip gives you plenty of scope for poring over maps and checking international rail timetables to your heart’s content. But Interrailing also gives you the ultimate flexibility.

You may get an insider tip of a cool regional city off the standard tourist trail. Interrail means you can rip up the itinerary and head where the fancy takes you. There’s no stopping you from roaming about as you wish or sticking to a fixed plan if that’s more your style.

15. Get to Experience Some of the World’s Fastest Trains

Aside from east Asia, Europe has the fastest high-speed trains worldwide. With an Interrail pass, you can travel on most of these for a small reservation fee of €10 or less.

If you’re a train fanatic, you’ll love the feeling of travelling at high speed through the European countryside from city to city. Likely, you’ve never gone on trains so fast and with such modern facilities.

Interrail list 15 high-speed trains with the prices for reservation fees and how you can book with them.

Surely You Don’t Need Another Reason…

All told, Interrailing is simplicity itself. Whatever your age and style of traveller you are, you’ll love the sense of freedom and the way you can experience the places you visit by train. So what are you waiting for? Book the pass that suits you, pack a sense of adventure and head out to Europe’s excellent rail network for one of the best holidays you’ll likely have.

Image credits: poeloq, rbos, environmentblog, davidrosenphotography, pitel

The post Interrail: 15 Reasons Why It’s the Best Way to See Europe appeared first on The Train Hacker.