Train vs. Plane: The Best Way to Travel Across Europe

When planning a trip across Europe, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between train travel and flying. While flights can seem like the obvious choice for speed, train travel offers unique advantages that might make it the better option depending on your budget, itinerary, and preferences. Let’s break it down by key factors:

1. Cost Comparison: Is Train Travel Cheaper?

• Flights: Budget airlines like Ryanair and easyJet offer cheap base fares, but you’ll need to factor in additional costs like baggage fees, seat selection, and transportation to and from airports (which are often far from city centers). A £20 flight can quickly become £70+ after add-ons.

• Trains: Prices vary based on the route and when you book. Eurail and Interrail passes can be cost-effective for multi-country trips, but individual train tickets can be expensive if booked last-minute. However, no baggage fees and no hidden airport costs can make trains the better deal overall.

✅ Winner: Flights are cheaper for last-minute one-way trips, but trains are better for multi-stop travel and budget-conscious planners.

2. Time: Which Is Faster?

• Flights: A flight from London to Paris takes about 1 hour 15 minutes, but when you add airport security, check-in, and travel time to and from airports, the total journey can be 4+ hours.

• Trains: High-speed trains like the Eurostar (London to Paris in 2 hours 16 minutes) or the TGV and ICE trains make train travel highly competitive. No security lines, no baggage claim delays, and direct city-to-city connections save a lot of time.

✅ Winner: Trains for journeys under 5-6 hours; flights for longer distances.

3. Comfort & Convenience

• Flights: Budget airlines have tight seats, limited legroom, and often no Wi-Fi. Airports can be stressful, and delays are common.

• Trains: Trains provide spacious seating, scenic views, onboard dining, and no security hassles. You can walk around freely and even bring your own food. Plus, train stations are usually in city centers, reducing travel time.

✅ Winner: Trains—more space, more freedom, and a more enjoyable experience.

4. Environmental Impact

• Flights: Air travel is one of the biggest contributors to CO₂ emissions. A short-haul flight produces up to 77% more CO₂ per passenger than a train journey on the same route.

• Trains: European trains are often powered by electricity, making them more sustainable. High-speed trains are especially eco-friendly compared to short-haul flights.

✅ Winner: Trains—a greener way to travel.

5. Flexibility & Luggage Allowance

• Flights: Strict baggage policies and expensive checked luggage fees. Last-minute flight changes can be expensive.

• Trains: Unlimited luggage, no weight restrictions, and flexible ticket options on many routes.

✅ Winner: Trains—better for those traveling with extra luggage or needing flexibility.

Final Verdict: Train vs. Plane for European Travel

• Best for budget last-minute trips: Flights

• Best for multi-city adventures: Trains

• Best for speed on short routes: Trains

• Best for long distances: Flights

• Best for comfort & scenery: Trains

• Best for sustainability: Trains

If you’re hopping between major European cities, high-speed trains are often the best choice. But for long-haul journeys (e.g., London to Athens), a budget flight might be the way to go.

Would you choose train or plane for your next European trip? Let us know in the comments! 🚆✈️