EuroCity trains
EuroCity (EC) trains offer convenient European cross-border connections between major cities in Italy, France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria and Poland.
A collaboration between the main train companies for each country including Trenitalia (Italy), SBB (Switzerland), Deutsche Bahn (Germany) and OBB (Austria) – EuroCity trains provide a quick and easy daytime service that hops between some of the most beautiful cities in Europe.
Want to know more about travelling on EC trains in Europe? We’ve put together all the information you need to plan your journey including popular routes and how buy your EuroCity train tickets.
EuroCity train tickets
The EuroCity ticket pricing system is simple and easy to understand. There are two types of train tickets available to purchase – First Class and Standard Class – seat reservations are not always compulsory, but we’d recommend them for the more popular routes. We’ve listed a few EuroCity train ticket features below.
Named tickets
Tickets for EuroCity trains are usually non-transferable – this means you’ll have to provide your full name and date of birth at time of booking, so your ticket is unique to you.
Go paperless
It’s now possible to travel on many EuroCity trains without having to print out or pick up your ticket at the station. Just show your email with your reservation code (PNR) when boarding or when asked.
Book in advance
EuroCity train tickets are normally available to buy up to six months before the departure date. Book as early as possible to enjoy the cheapest prices.
Popular routes
EuroCity trains make travel between major cities across Europe simple, meaning you have a huge list of destinations to choose from. For those in need of a little inspiration, we’ve put together our list of the most popular routes you can take on EC trains.
EuroCity trains in Italy
In Italy, Trenitalia operate the EuroCity services. Some popular routes for EuroCity trains in Italy include:
EuroCity trains in Germany
In Germany, DB operate the EuroCity services. Some popular routes for EuroCity trains in Germany include:
EuroCity trains
Although EuroCity trains aren’t typically high-speed services, they can still reach speeds of over 90 km/h and usually travel through two or more countries during their journey. Depending on your destination, there are several types of EuroCity train you can travel on, operated by the different train companies of each country. We’ve listed the most popular trains and where they can take you below.
EuroCity 37
EuroCity 87
EuroCity 42
EuroCity 85
EuroCity classes
All EuroCity trains generally offer two levels of classes – First Class and Standard Class – Expect spacious seating in both classes, with a mixture of open-plan or compartment seating. We’ve highlighted what you can expect from each class below.
First Class
When you travel on a EuroCity train in First Class, you can expect air-conditioned carriages, power sockets and usually the bonus of access to the premium lounges at major stations too. Check out our dedicated page to EuroCity First Class for more details.
Standard Class
When travelling in Standard Class, you won’t always have access to power sockets, although you can expect air-conditioning if travelling on a newer train (some older models may not have air-conditioning).
Good to know
Travelling on a EuroCity service? Find out everything you need to know about luggage, WiFi and other EuroCity onboard facilities here.
Is WiFi available?
Can I store luggage on the train?
Will my EuroCity train serve food and drink?
Travel Europe by train
We sell tickets for some of Europe's biggest train companies, including SNCF, Renfe, Trenitalia and Deutsche Bahn. Check out some of the most popular rail routes in Europe below.