What is the difference between a first class train ticket and a second class train ticket? We will be travelling during the say (or at night) but not overnight and I am wondering if the 2nd class ticket is worth saving the money. Thanks.

Which country are you visiting ? Train fares vary greatly between countries. With regard to Italy, this topic was discussed at some length recently. In general, in most countries first class is about 50% more, but the seats are more comfortable and more spacious - if there are four seats abreast in second, there'll only be three in first. Local trains often only have second class.

I have debated that question myself.
In Switzerland, I would rarely, if ever, take first class. In Austria, I think I would.
In Germany, last year, on the train from Munich to Zürich, I wonder why I paid the extra for first class. I asked for non smoking and my non smoking seat was right next to a smoking seat. Fortunately the smoking seat was unoccupied, but the seats were not very comfortable.

(I guess there was no smoking at my seat.)

On the TGV in France, I think the difference in the two classes is marginal at best.

In Italy, I think I would pay the difference and go first class.

In Ireland, I am not sure. The only trains I have seen there are dilapidated. Even the stations are small and dirty.

Of course trains vary with countries and even with different lines or types, but one thing you can count on -- first class will ALWAYS be better cars and seats in one way or another. First class is less likely to be overcrowded, more likely to have better heat or air conditioning, and will almost always have more spacious if not more luxurious seats. Whether it is "worth it" to you is something no one can answer for you. It generally is to me, unless I'm hopping on a train for a 15 minute ride somewhere.
This is no different that asking is the $30 bottle of wine worth it instead of the $20 wine? Or are the seats in the orchestra worth $10 more than the rear balcony seats. Or is the deluxe room worth $25 more at a certain hotel to get a sea view? All of these are worth it to some, not worth it to others.

Patrick is correct.

My philosophy is: Under 35 2cl, Over 55 1cl.

Some countries only have one class, so it doesn't matter. Specific trains in a certain country may be overall nicer. For example, the ICE trains that run through Germany and the Netherlands rule, even in 2nd class. In Norway, getting a 2nd class Signatur train rates so far above the one class cattle car, it's not even funny.

To check on what train runs when and the amenities, it's good to have handy the Thomas Cook European Timetable, as it not only lists the train schedules, but details the type of train and its amenities (i.e. bar car, dining car, sleepers, 1st class or 2nd class only, etc.).

Since on most trains, the first class cars are in the middle, I've figured something out. Sometimes first class arrives ahead of second class while other times it arrives later.

I think the length of the trip is the issue. Somehow for a 3 hour Eurostar trip from London to Paris, (now it is 2.5 hours right), to me the added comfort of first class along with the meal they serve is hardly worth the extra price. On a 5 or 6 hour trip,perhaps it might. But then again, the difference in price for a longer trip is probably much more eh!

I think it depends on the length of your trip as well. I've taken 2nd class in Italy, France and England and think they are all fine, for up to perhaps 5 hours. Like the others said, 1rst class is less crowded. So, if you aren't going far, I don't really think it is worth the money. At the same time, I would agree that you need to consider how much more money you would actually need to pay and whether a less crowded car is worth it to you personally.

You should also find out if you can get an assigned seat or not, especially if you are going 2nd class. If not, I would recommend getting to the station at least 30 - 45 minutes early so that you can be one of the first on the train, get a seat and stow your luggage if you'd like. Also, remember that if you don't have an assigned seat you can't be sure to get one, even if you do get to the station early.

Happy travels!

Daria

Here's the other recent thread on this question: http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34452880