The downside of Spain’s free train ticket
When Germany introduced its 9-euro ticket, train stations were packed and trains overflowing with passengers. Spain will offer free tickets, and local transport associations fear the worst. Can the trains actually handle the additional passengers?...Read more
Renfe pours millions into development of new ticketing system
Renfe has earmarked 234 million euros for investment in a new system for ticket sales. The Spanish operator is looking for more functionalities and better scalability.Read more
Germany wants to introduce ‘climate ticket’ after successful 9-euro ticket
The German government is considering the introduction of a climate ticket for trains, which would enable travellers to take regional trains at a reduced price. The plan follows on the success of the so-called 9-euro...Read more
Thibault Constant on why Amtrak has the most pleasant long-distance trains
If there is anyone who is experienced in taking the train, it is Thibault Constant. On his Youtube channel Simply Railway he reports on train trips across the world. Having spent more than 300 nights...Read more
Booking an international train journey fails 10 times more often than a flight, why is it more difficult?
Interview“We all know that booking international rail tickets can be quite difficult, but how big is the problem?” That was the question that Thomas Preslmayr and students of the Austrian St. Pölten University of Applied...Read more
Finland’s VR offers free ‘test’ tickets to lure commuters to the train
Finnish operator VR is offering free tickets for commuter trains, where train rides can be ‘tested’ free of charge for 24 hours on a predetermined day in an effort to convince people to choose the...Read more
Railways mark 50 years of Interrail with half-price discount
The major European railway companies celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Interrail Pass. To mark the occasion, the Interrail Continuous Pass is offered with a 50-percent discount from Friday May 6 until May 10.Read more
DB partners with airline ticketing provider to improve intermodal travel
Deutsche Bahn has partnered with WorldTicket, a global provider of passenger service systems and distribution technology to airlines. The companies aim to make it easier for travellers to seamlessly book rail and air travel on...Read more
Deutsche Bahn staff fear large crowds following cheap public transport pass
Deutsche Bahn staff are concerned about large crowds in trains and stations due to the introduction of a more affordable pass to travel on public transport. To counteract the impact of soaring fuel prices, the...Read more
Looking behind Britain’s cut price tickets deal
The UK government has surprised the travel market with the announcement of a snap sale of passenger train tickets, claiming to cut the cost of rail travel in half. Ministers say it will re-invigorate the...Read more
Eurail celebrates 50th anniversary: the evolution of the Interrail pass
BackgroundCreated in 1972 in the wake of the hippie movement, the Interrail pass celebrates its 50th anniversary this March. Initially aimed at young people, the pass for train travel across Europe is increasingly popular, across...Read more
Mobile apps: how incumbent railways can dominate
OpinionGetting a single ticket on a journey made up of various rail parts still is out of reach in 2021. Even though ease of choice and payment could be the number one reason for people...Read more
The hassle of booking an international train
COLUMN – The reputation of international train tickets is not as positive as it should be. International train tickets are considered expensive and difficult to book. In reality, they can be amazingly cheap, but are a...Read more