Travel is back! Make sure to book your seat reservations well in advance to guarantee your seat(s). 

Would you rather avoid reservations all together? Check out our reservation-free itineraries.

Days
d
Hours
h
Minutes
m
Seconds
s
  • Menu
  • Get inspired
    Back
    Get inspired
  • Plan your trip
    Back
    Plan your trip
  • Eurail Passes
    Back
    Eurail Passes
  • Seat reservations
  • Deals
  • Help
    Back
    Help
    Your order
    Menu
    Settings

    Differences between 1st and 2nd class

    Travel in style with Eurail

    First class rail travel is irresistible. There's nothing like watching the beautiful and ever-changing European scenery pass by from a quiet and comfortable train compartment, with the comforting sound of rail cars gliding smoothly over the rail tracks.

     

    You can choose to travel with a first class Pass for optimal comfort, or with a budget-friendly second class Pass. A first class Pass gives you access to both first and second class compartments on every train. 

    Common features of 1st vs 2nd class

    • Individually adjustable seats

    • More room between the seats sideways

    • More legroom

    • Extra wide tables

    • Electric outlet per seat

    • Cabin service: menus are served at your seat

    • Wifi

    • Modern seats in open cars

    • Compartments (6 seats)

    • Generous luggage racks / luggage compartments

    • Multifunctional tables

    • One electric outlet per double seat

    • Restaurant and bistro car

    • Wi-Fi (Some cars)

    Style

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

    The decision will not only depend on your budget but also on the travel experience you are 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

    Traveling first class usually means spacious, comfortable seats, amenities such as USB-ports, free Wi-Fi and – in some cases – complimentary drinks and meals. Sometimes the perks of traveling 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

    However, how luxurious the first class experience will be, differs per country and train company. In some countries first class simply means you have a better chance of finding a seat, whereas in other countries it means you’ll feel like royalty. 

    ★★★★★

     

    "Highly Recommended"

     

    Purchased a Eurail First class pass and used it for 10 trips within Germany, Austria and Czech republic. Highly recommended way of travelling. very easy to use. Would definitely travel this way again


    ​    TrustPilot from GCM, United States 

    View review>

    Let us help you!

    Differences between 1st & 2nd class | Pass finder | People working in a team

    Not sure which Eurail Pass to choose? Let our handy Pass-finding tool help you find the best Pass for your trip!

     

    Try the Pass Finder > 

    Change of currency

    You cannot change the currency once you have a Pass in your cart. Remove the Pass, and then change the currency on the website header.