For nearly two centuries, train travel has captivated the heart and imagination of the journey maker, and nowhere more than in Europe has this enchanting, even spectacular means to a renewable end been so appreciated.

The European rail network leads to and from all major cities, through those smaller ones that time has seemingly forgotten, and along some of the most picturesque stretches of land on the whole of the continent. Locals and distance travelers alike have long had the pleasure of the real sense of place afforded by countryside and carriage.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, young English elites in pursuit broadened horizons went in search of cultural experiences on the European continent and beyond. The Grand Tour as the adventure became known was a freelance education often lasting two and up to four years. When the rail car was introduced at the beginning of the 19th century, almost straight away it became intrinsically and romantically linked to the love of the ages. To travel by train was to travel in style, and no more so than on the Orient Express.

The technology of train travel has evolved over decades, but the fundamental design of the European train carriage has changed essentially little since its introduction. Traveling these days, one might never step into a carriage that sparkles like the famed Orient Express. But while many European trains have lost their luster from decades of constant use, the experience of train travel may well hold all the drama and possibility that it ever did.

Today as ever, the romance really begins in the train station, since it is here that the local personality is first visible. Gateways to an altered view and viewpoint, European train stations never fail to leave their impression on the journey maker. They are curious, picturesque places, and often as distinctive as the country itself.

You step aboard, the train pulls away, and you search out your preferred spot on a moving stage. In a rail carriage onward across continent, you sit and gaze out at the flying landscape, or you stroll the narrow halls with interest alternating between the speeding view and the persons passing twixt window and compartment. You may even take a seat in the lunch carriage for a bite and a changed angle on the ever changing scenery.

With the ability to move about freely, train travel is nearly always fascinating, and frequently a cultural experience in itself. Whether on a flight of fancy or following after an art capital itinerary, the journey is sure to mark your New Grand Tour with many a memorable moment. Strike up a conversation. You never know what story or useful bit of information your fellow journey-maker might impart.

Choosing a Rail Pass:

With so many choices in European rail tickets, each with a different name and itinerary map, selecting the right rail pass to your particular destination can be confusing. The most important factors in choosing a rail pass will be the amount of time you have to spend and the places you wish to visit during that time. Below are a few pointers to help you find your best alternative.

One or Two Countries

• If you know your precise destination, and are planning a trip to only one or two countries, then getting your ticket at the counter or on board the train is the way to go. Further, some countries establish discounted rates for frequent travel in the form of a commuter pass. Ask discount programs and special deals at the information desk at any rail station within the country.

Three to Five Countries

• If the countries you plan to visit sit next to each other on a map, whether connected by land border or by sea (for example, Greece, Italy, France, and Spain), then the Eurail Selectpass may be a good choice for you. This flexible ticket offers unlimited travel within a 2 month period on 5, 10, or 15 days, and further offers a choice between 3, 4, or 5 bordering countries. Keep in mind that a rail pass must be valid not only for the country to which you are traveling, but also for any country you might travel through.

City Hopping

• When the scope of your journey includes more than five countries, the ticket you need is simply called, the Eurailpass, because it gives the traveler the luxury of unlimited carriage to and within 18 Eurail countries. There is nothing like the freedom of spontaneous travel to excite the spirit with all the possibility that Europe has to offer – the ability to awake on any given morning and decide your destination according to mood and a glimpse at a map is in itself a thing to experience. With this pass in your pocket, the only question left will be whether you will have enough time to see it all. Visit eurail.com or eurailnet.com or even eurailnet.com for more information on all European rail passes.

Residents of Europe

• For exchange students and residents of the Europe and North Africa, the InterRail pass provides 2nd class seating and unlimited travel through 30 IRC (Inter Rail Community) countries within a specified time period. The participating countries are organized by zones and include Morocco and Turkey among them. More information is available at Interailnet.com