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Your Rail Options
An extensive rail grid connects the European continent, bringing people together and helping travelers reach their destinations. The essence of train travel lies in the simple things: in enjoying a comfortable ride while gazing at the passing scenery, and the assurance of a fast and punctual transit. Travel opportunities are endless; here are few of our favorites.
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Why Choose Rail?
Top five compelling reasons why you should opt to go by train when traveling in Europe.
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Vacation Packages
Marvel at the imposing mountain peaks through the Swiss Alps or ride along Provence’s lavender fields; rail travel opens the doors to a world of opportunities. Our fully customizable vacation packages offer a glimpse of the endless possibilities of rail travel. High speed, international connections, or charming regional trains, revel in comfort as you move to your next destination.
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Grand Train Tour of SwitzerlandSWISS TRAVEL SYSTEM
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Deluxe SwitzerlandSWISS TRAVEL SYSTEM
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Swiss PanoramaSWISS TRAVEL SYSTEM
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Connect the Capitals: London & ParisEUROSTAR
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Connect the Capitals: London & AmsterdamEUROSTAR
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<Connect the Capitals: London & BrusselsEUROSTAR
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Discover French WinesTGV INOUI
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Splendors of the French Riviera & ProvenceTGV INOUI
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Highlights of FranceTGV INOUI
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Flavors of France & SpainFRANCE-SPAIN HIGH SPEED
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Road to IberiaFRANCE-SPAIN HIGH SPEED
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Catalonia ConnectionFRANCE-SPAIN HIGH SPEED
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A Taste of BubblyTGV EST
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Champagne DiscoveryTGV EST
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Urban GemsTGV EST
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Wines & Brews of Central EuropeTGV EST
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Culinary Highlights of ItalyTRENITALIA
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Italian Coast to CountrysideTRENITALIA
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Riviera CharmTRENITALIA
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Iconic CultureTHALYS
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Dutch Culture & Belgian CuisineTHALYS
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Lifestyle CitiesTHALYS
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Glacier & Bernina ExpressSWISS TRAVEL SYSTEM
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Best of GermanyICE
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Passion Play, 2020ICE
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The Alps, Short & SweetICE
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Cultural Capitals: Paris & ZurichTGV LYRIA
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Discover France & SwitzerlandTGV LYRIA
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Wonders of France & SwitzerlandTGV LYRIA
Network Map
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Carriers
Meet the carriers that connect millions of travelers throughout Europe each year.
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Rail Europe eBrochure
Frequently Asked Questions

Are prices for train tickets ever guaranteed with Avanti

No, train tickets are subject to change in price, schedule, and availability until both paid for and ticketed.

What if I choose to change the date or time on my point-to-point ticket?

Once rail has been ticketed with Avanti Destinations, it is fully non-refundable. You can make changes to any pending rail at no charge. Some tickets do allow for flexibility, so please contact us with any specific questions.

What is my commission on rail products with Avanti?

Travel Agents will receive a flat commission of 5% on point-to-point tickets, and 2% on rail passes.

How far in advance can you confirm rail reservations?

Ticketing horizons can vary greatly depending on the operating rail company, however 60 to 90 days before the train’s departure date is a good estimate on availability. For detailed information on ticketing horizons, please refer to page 10 on our Rail Europe e-brochure.

How do I know if my train tickets will be printed or electronic?

Generally, high-speed trains will use electronic tickets (typically a PDF that can be re-printed at any time), while regional trains will use special printed tickets (tickets that must be repurchased if lost). Of course, there are exceptions depending on the country or rail company. Please reach out to our Travel Consultants via phone or email for more specific questions. You can also find more information regarding documents on the Avanti Agent Portal.

Why book with Avanti Destinations instead of Rail Europe?

Working with Avanti Destinations allows you to keep all your travel elements in one booking, as well as to talk directly with a Travel Consultant and receive live assistance from our in-house Rail Department. Avanti can also offer certain rail products that cannot be purchased through Rail Europe.

Can I book rail on the Avanti Agent Portal?

You can book point-to-point tickets on our Agent Portal. For rail passes and associated eat reservations, please contact our Travel Consultants.

Are there any porters at the train station? Where does my luggage go?

There are generally no luggage porters at train stations. Passengers are responsible to carry their own luggage and stow it in the luggage hold area in their train car, on the overhead luggage rack, or at their seat.

What are the Excellence Class amenities on the Glacier Express?

Passengers enjoy a 5-course meal, unlimited champagne, a designated concierge, larger panoramic windows, and a 1-1 seating configuration. Every single seat in Excellence class is a window seat!

What is a good estimated time that passengers should arrive at the rail station before their train departure?

Usually 20 to 30 minutes is sufficient for passengers to find and reach their respective platform in time for the train departure. For Eurostar trains we recommend passengers arrive at least 1 hour before departure as check in will close at 45 minutes prior.

Does Avanti Destinations offer any discounts for Travel Agents?

No, Avanti does not have access to discounted rates for agents on rail products. We recommend contacting Rail Europe directly for travel agent discounted products.
I Travel for Local Flavour
Meet Our Rail Experts: LB
Meet Our Rail Experts: Dan
Testimonials
Meet Avanti's Rail Experts
"During my time as a Rail Product Specialist, I helped organize and increase efficiency in the department by implementing automated processes — such as email alerts notifying agents when rail is ready to ticket — providing ongoing training for our Travel Consultants, and conducting webinars for our agents. As Avanti grows, our rail volume does too, and I look forward to finding new and innovative ways to make booking and ticketing rail better than ever before. My favorite part of working in the Rail Department is being able to find solutions to complicated routing issues that seem impossible – there is always a way!"

LB Tomczak, Rail Product Supervisor
"I have been employed at Avanti for nearly three years now. The problem-solving aspect of planning itineraries is what drew me here. I have dedicated about one and a half years of that time to either working part time or full time in Rail. Travel and transportation are my passions – I love to “solve” complicated itineraries by finding the most efficient methods of transportation. Traveling by train remains my favorite mode of transportation, and I never pass up the chance to take some of the more uncommon train routes around the world."



Dan Jansen, Rail Product Specialist
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