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Differences between 1st and 2nd class

Travel in style with Interrail

 

1st class rail travel is irresistible. There is nothing like watching the beautiful and ever-changing European scenery pass by from a quiet and comfortable train compartment, with the comforting sound of the rail carriages gliding smoothly along the tracks in the background.

 

There are many amenities and services on board. While these vary per country and train, when travelling 1st class in European trains you can expect more facilities to make your travel experience even more pleasant. You can choose to travel with a 1st class Pass for optimal comfort, or with a budget-friendly 2nd class Pass. A 1st class Pass gives you access to both 1st and 2nd class compartments on every train. 

 

There are many different types of 1st and 2nd class compartments, because this depends on the type of train, the carrier and the country of travel. In many cases, there are more than two classes or 1st and 2nd classes have different names. Some regional trains do not have 1st class cabins at all.

 

Examples of trains with different class names or more than two classes: 

Please also note that not all classes of these trains can be booked by 1st class Pass holders.

 

Common features of 1st vs 2nd class

1st class

Varies per railway company, but many 1st class carriages have the following amenities:

 

  • Generally 1 x 2 seating layout on long-distance trains
  • Some trains have compartments with 4 to 6 seats
  • Fewer people in one carriage
  • Quieter environment in carriages
  • Adjustable seats
  • More space in between the seats
  • More legroom
  • Larger tables
  • Electric outlets (not all trains)
  • Extra service at your seat when there is a restaurant/café car
  • Wi-Fi (not all trains)

2nd class

Varies per railway company, but many 2nd class carriages have the following amenities:

 

  • Generally 2x2 seating layout
  • Some trains have compartments with 6 seats
  • Multifunctional tables
  • Electric outlets on some long-distance trains
  • Dining in a restaurant/dining car when available
  • Wi-Fi on some long-distance trains
  • Luggage racks above the seats or close to the entrance

 

Style

Differences between 1st & 2nd class | The mood comparison

Choosing between first and second class not only depends on your budget, but also on the travel experience you're looking for. In general, first class offers serenity and quietness, whereas second class offers more of a community travel experience.

The perks

Differences between 1st & 2nd class | Lounge

Depending on the railway company and the countries you are travelling in, travelling first class usually means: spacious, comfortable seats, amenities such as USB-ports, free Wi-Fi, or even complimentary drinks and meals. Sometimes the perks of travelling first class even start before boarding the train, with access to lounges and priority check-in.

It depends

Differences between 1st & 2nd class | People getting onboard

Whatever you decide to choose, it’s good to know that both options are available when ordering an Interrail Pass, whether you’re a backpacker or a 5-star luxury seeker!

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