All About Train Travel

Miscellaneous

  • Is there medical help on board in case of emergency?

    Most trains do not carry emergency medical equipment. In case of a medical emergency, conductors on board will radio ahead to the next stop so that help will be there ready and waiting.

  • Can I open the windows?

    Slower regional and InterCity trains do give you the option of opening windows.  High-speed trains wisely do not offer this option for safety reasons.

  • Are there ATMs on board?

    While there are ATMs located in most major stations, there are no ATMs located on the trains themselves.

  • Are the train cars air conditioned/heated?

    All European trains are fully heated. All Inter City, High-Speed and overnight trains are fully heated and air-conditioned. It can happen that some regional trains (in countries such as Italy and Spain) servicing local villages for short distances may not have air-conditioning. But of course, they allow passengers to open the windows.

  • Do I need to tip the staff on the train?

    Tipping the train staff (other than dining car waiters) is not necessary or customary.

  • Are the trains "child friendly"?

    European trains (like Europeans) are very family friendly. Some even have baby changing facilities or family friendly play areas. An exception is the Eurostar’s Business Premier Class, which is primarily dedicated to business travelers.