Interrail pass vs. Eurail pass: Which Pass Do You Need and How Do They Compare?
If you’re planning a train journey across Europe, you’ve probably come across two similar names: the Interrail Pass and the Eurail Pass. But what exactly is the difference between the two? Do they work the same way? Which one should you buy? In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences and similarities so you can make the right choice for your trip.
Who can use an Interrail or Eurail pass?
The main distinction between the Interrail Pass and the Eurail Pass lies in who is eligible to use them.
The Interrail Pass is exclusively available to European citizens and residents. That means if you have a passport or official residency in a European country (including Turkey and some non-EU countries), you qualify for an Interrail Pass.
The Eurail Pass, on the other hand, is designed for non-European travelers. This includes tourists visiting from countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and many others.
So, the rule is simple: if you live in Europe, you’ll need an Interrail Pass. If you live outside Europe, then a Eurail Pass is the right choice for you.
Can both passes be used in the Rail Planner app?
Yes, they can! Whether you’re using an Interrail Pass or a Eurail Pass, both are fully compatible with the official Rail Planner app, which is available on iOS and Android.
Once you’ve purchased your pass, you can store it digitally in the app. From there, you’ll be able to:
Check train timetables and real-time schedules
Plan your route across Europe
Activate your travel days
Keep track of your trips and past journeys
This digital functionality makes both passes easy to use on the go, and you don’t need to carry a physical ticket with you—just your phone and the app.
Are the Interrail pass and Eurail pass the same price?
Generally speaking, the pricing structure for both passes is very similar. For example, a 7-day pass within one month will usually cost about the same whether it’s an Interrail or Eurail Pass. Both passes offer flexible options depending on how long you’re traveling and how many travel days you need.
That said, promotional offers and regional discounts can occasionally make one pass slightly cheaper than the other. For example, a summer sale might apply only to Eurail Passes, or a local rail operator might offer extra perks for Interrail users. It’s always a good idea to compare both options if you’re on the edge of eligibility (e.g., dual citizenship) or just looking for the best deal.
Are there any differences between the Interrail pass and Eurrail pass?
There are only a few small differences, but one of them can really affect how you plan your trip—especially when it comes to travel within your home country.
The Interrail Pass comes with a limitation: you cannot use it for unlimited travel within your own country. Instead, you’re allowed just two travel days within your country of residence:
One travel day to leave your home country at the beginning of your trip.
One travel day to return to your home country at the end.
These are known as your outbound and inbound travel days. On all other days, your Interrail Pass will not be valid for domestic travel within your country. This rule exists to prevent people from using the pass as a regular national rail ticket.
The Eurail Pass does not have this restriction. Because it’s designed for tourists visiting from outside Europe, users of the Eurail Pass are free to travel through any country included in the pass, including full access to rail routes in any specific country—since none of them are their “home country”.
This difference doesn’t matter much if you’re planning an international rail adventure, but it’s good to know when considering how you’ll start and end your trip.
What countries are included in both passes?
Both the Interrail Pass and the Eurail Pass give you access to the same 33 countries across Europe. There is no difference in coverage—regardless of which pass you choose, you’ll be able to travel through the same wide-ranging network of national rail systems.
These countries include many of Europe’s top travel destinations, such as:
France – from Paris to Provence
Italy – including Rome, Venice, and the Amalfi Coast
Germany – with fast trains between Berlin, Munich, and beyond
Spain – connecting cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville
Switzerland – known for its scenic mountain routes
Austria, The Netherlands, Belgium, Portugal, and many more
Nordic countries like Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Denmark
Central and Eastern Europe – including Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, Croatia, Slovenia, and Romania
Non-EU countries such as Turkey, Serbia, and North Macedonia
No matter where you plan to go, both passes provide the same access to this expansive rail network, making it easy to plan cross-country trips or spontaneous detours. The only thing that determines which pass you need is your country of residence—not the countries you want to visit.
Final thoughts: Which pass is right for you?
To sum it up:
If you live in Europe, go with the Interrail Pass.
If you live outside Europe, choose the Eurail Pass.
Both passes work in the same app, offer access to the same trains, and cost about the same. The most important factor is where you reside.
Whichever pass you choose, you’ll enjoy the freedom to explore Europe’s vast and interconnected rail network. From iconic high-speed trains like the TGV and ICE to scenic local routes winding through vineyards and mountains, a rail pass is one of the best ways to experience Europe.
So plan your route, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable European rail adventure!
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Article by TrainTripsEurope, published: april 2025