Seat Types on European Trains

Many trains offer you a choice of seat types. For day trains, your choice of seating depends on the amount of leg-room, and extra facilities. For night trains, your choice ranges from a reclining, airline-type seats, to a private cabin with a comfy bed. Your journey, your choice.

Day trains

Laptop in 1st class compartment ICE high-speed train

Day trains have 2 types of seats:

Coach car seating

Open with center aisle and 2 seats on either side

1^st class
2^nd class

Compartment car

Separated into cabins which open into a corridor

1^st class compartment for up to 6 people
2^nd class compartment for up to 8 people

When reserving seats, you may:

choose a window seat.
take an aisle seat.
reserve adjoining or opposite seats, sometimes with a table.
choose a seat in a dining car or a panorama car.

Night trains

Night trains are a convenient way to travel long distances while you sleep. You can save on the cost of hostels or hotels, as the reservation fee for night trains is usually much cheaper. It’s also a unique experience to travel across Europe by night train. If you book a bed (sleeper or couchette), a sheet, blanket and pillow are usually provided.

Please note: If you cross a border on a night train, you will probably be asked to hand your Interrail pass and passport to the train conductor. This way, the border crossing security checks can happen while you sleep. Rest assured that your documents will be returned to you when you arrive at your destination.

The most common accommodation types on night trains are:

Sleepers
Couchettes
Reclining seats

Couchettes

Couchettes are a standard type of sleeping accommodation. They offer a place to lie down with a pillow, a blanket and a sheet. There are usually compartments with couchettes for 4 or 6 people. Washrooms and toilets are located at the end of each car. Couchettes are available for 1st and 2nd class pass holders.