Planes, Trains, and Automobiles: Which is Best for Traveling Europe?

Since most European countries have excellent infrastructure by rail and/or road, this small, diverse continent is a delight to explore overland. However, in some cases, it might be necessary to consider flying while taking the ferry could spice up a typical itinerary.  

Traveling Europe by train: Best for comfort and scenery

The train is the default option for many travelers visiting Europe. In addition to extensive domestic coverage in Western and Northern Europe, cross-border train travel is easy to arrange. Services link the likes of Paris and Amsterdam, Milan and Zurich, Vienna and Prague, and London and Brussels. Trains in Europe appeal to travelers eager to avoid airports and who are predominantly traveling to cities.

Pros of train travel in Europe:

• Scenic and relaxing.
• Reliable city-center to city-center connections.
• Comfortable with spacious seating and the option to travel first class. 
• Lower carbon footprint than flying or driving.
• High-speed networks are available (TGV, ICE, Eurostar, and AVE) alongside regional services.
  

Cons of train travel in Europe:

• Tickets may be expensive or unavailable when purchased at the last minute. 
• Slower for long-distance travel.
• Not always efficient in rural areas or Eastern Europe.

Exploring Europe by car: Best for flexibility and harder-to-reach places

Renting a car is the best way to explore Europe at your own pace and according to your own schedule. This means of travel allows for greater flexibility to make last-minute changes, especially when traveling during the off-season, and to access harder-to-reach places in the countryside. 

Besides car rental, you may also consider renting a private driver to bridge any gaps in the train service. 

Pros of traveling Europe by car:

• Freedom to stop at will and take detours.
• Ideal for rural regions and national parks lacking public transport.
• Allows for a more comfortable experience of transporting luggage and souvenirs.
• Recommended for families with younger children or elderly relatives. 
  

Cons of traveling Europe by car:

• Parking in cities and beach resorts can be difficult during busy periods.
• Driving in unfamiliar cities and mountain areas can be intimidating.
• Not as sustainable as taking the train (but more eco-friendly than flying).

Getting around Europe by plane: Best for longer distances

There is an extensive network of flight routes between almost every European country. This is the fastest way to cover large distances and is recommended for an itinerary covering countries further away from one another, such as Spain and Scandinavia or the United Kingdom and Italy. 

Pros of traveling Europe by plane:

• Fastest way to cover long distances.
• Budget airlines such as Wizz Air and easyJet sell affordable fares whereas premium carriers offer first class frills.
  

Cons of traveling Europe by plane:

• Airports are often located far away from city centers.
• Baggage fees and additional charges such as taxes, seating preferences, and onboard meals swiftly add up.
• Longer total travel time due to security/wait times.
• High carbon footprint.

Taking the ferry in Europe: Best for experiential travel 

It’s also possible to travel parts of Europe by ferry, such as the United Kingdom to France and Spain and the Baltic nations. As a slower method of travel, this will be more appealing to those with more time on their hands. Besides the ferry, you may also consider chartering a yacht or embarking on a river cruise.

Pros of traveling Europe by ferry:

• Scenic – especially delightful in summer when it’s warmer.
• Great for families with kids. 
• Many routes accommodate rental cars. 
• One of the most sustainable travel methods.

Cons of traveling Europe by ferry:

• Seas are rougher at certain times of year. 
• Slow. 
• Limited options with less frequency in winter. 

The best method of traveling in Europe ultimately depends on the destinations in mind and the nature of your travel party. Contact Darby at Darby’s Destinations to plan a bespoke route based on your requirements.