is the Euro-rail pass in France better than no pass?
Jan 24th, 2011, 10:32 AM
#1
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is the Euro-rail pass in France better than no pass?
Hello,
I'll be traveling around France and Germany for 2 months this spring, and I've heart mixed reviews about the Euro-pass (I've been looking specifically at the Eurail pass, but I'm open to any pass!)
Some people claim that prices at the train stations in France are much cheaper than booking online, and that I should just wait to book each leg of my trip. Is this true?
I will be traveling to about 8-10 different cities, but I'm flexible as far as the itinerary goes (time frames and all).
Any advice or insight on this topic will be welcomed! Thank you.
I'll be traveling around France and Germany for 2 months this spring, and I've heart mixed reviews about the Euro-pass (I've been looking specifically at the Eurail pass, but I'm open to any pass!)
Some people claim that prices at the train stations in France are much cheaper than booking online, and that I should just wait to book each leg of my trip. Is this true?
I will be traveling to about 8-10 different cities, but I'm flexible as far as the itinerary goes (time frames and all).
Any advice or insight on this topic will be welcomed! Thank you.
Jan 24th, 2011, 10:36 AM
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You need to do a price comparison with regard to the pass, but assuming you buy point-to-point tickets in lieu of a pass, don't wait to book your France tickets until you get there. You'll get the cheapest fares by booking 3 months out from your dates of travel - PREM fares are what you're looking for. They are often deeply discounted, but also nonrefundable and nonexchangeable.
Jan 24th, 2011, 10:41 AM
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Hi J,
Ditto StC.
>Some people claim that prices at the train stations in France are much cheaper than booking online,.....<
That is true only if you buy through raileurope, which you don't want to do anyway.
www.voyages-sncf.com for France and www.bahn.de for Germany.
Enjoy your visit.
Ditto StC.
>Some people claim that prices at the train stations in France are much cheaper than booking online,.....<
That is true only if you buy through raileurope, which you don't want to do anyway.
www.voyages-sncf.com for France and www.bahn.de for Germany.
Enjoy your visit.
Jan 24th, 2011, 11:41 AM
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On TGVs, the SNCF allocates a limited number of seats to holders of rail passes. Once the pass-holder allocation has gone, then rail pass holders need to pay the normal fare to travel on that train. A rail pass is therefore of limited use in France.
In Germany, a rail pass allows you to hop on or off almost any train without the need to book in advance.
In Germany, a rail pass allows you to hop on or off almost any train without the need to book in advance.
