Europe Train Stations
Europe train stations operate much like large commuter stations- here’s what you can expect:
A lot of people take advantage of European train travel because it offers a dynamic form of commuting around some of the most beautiful areas on the planet. Europe has some of the finer cities in the world…Paris…Barcelona…Madrid…and when you travel on the lightening fast trains of Europe you can see them all in one exciting vacation. However, European train stations are often thought to be confusing areas. There is a language barrier for many people who only speak English, there are different looking trains and there are a lot of people traveling to various areas. Train travel is a pretty popular form of commuting in Europe so they can be likened to American bus stations. They are busy areas that you need to know your way around or you’ll quickly become lost. Riding on the rails can be fun and exciting but you need to know a thing or two about European train stations first. Let’s look a little closer:
The first thing you need to realize about Europe train stations is that they are all different and each has its own unique style to it. Train stations often act as the first impression a traveler has on a city so they want to make sure you have a unique one. It is nice to know that most train stations are centrally located, meaning that they are in the center of the city. If you need to go anywhere you can know that the train station is your central location.
Look for the “I” logo. When you see the “I” you can know there is some information. This logo is a universal logo for information and it is especially helpful in Europe train travel. If you need some help finding your way just keep your eyes peeled for this symbol. At locations where the “I” logo is present you can expect to find information on topics such as:
- Where the restrooms are
- Where the gift shops are located and which direction luggage carts are in
- ATM locations and currency offices
- Where you can find restaurants and taxis
- Where the subway is
Luggage is another concern when it comes to Europe train stations; finding the luggage area to be more specific. If you can’t pack lightly (the first cardinal rule in European travel) then make sure you don’t take more bags then you can handle by yourself. Sure, most Europe train stations provide you with baggage carts you may run into instances where you need to carry all of your bags simultaneously. Trains in Europe usually let you take as many carry-on bags as you can fit under your seat and/ or in the rack above your head. Some trains will give additional room underneath the train for ‘carry-on’ baggage.
Figuring out the train timetables in a Europe train station can be a challenge if you don’t read the language. Most stations in Europe post timetables for all the trains, when they are expected to depart and return and what platform number they are stationed at. A few things to keep in mind regarding timetables are that they always come with a yellow background for departures (making them easily distinguishable) and the arrival tables have a white background.
Europe train stations may seem difficult to maneuver around in at first but after your first station or two you will start to pick up similarities between the stations. It’s important to remember to appreciate each Europe train station for its own distinct personality; they’re all one of a kind!
