Trains in Europe were not only enjoyable, but often more comfortable and relaxing than your standard economy flight.
Before landing in Europe, I had my own, admittedly unsupported perception of what riding a train there was like. I had traveled by train a few times in California, but for some reason, I pictured dark and abandoned stations in Europe, where Taken-like things happened. My preconception was turned completely on its head when I took my first train trip with TrenItalia in Milan, then to Bologna, and then to Florence. Subsequent train rides in the cities of Lisbon and Amsterdam proved that trains in Europe were not only enjoyable, but often more comfortable and relaxing than your standard economy flight.
When I first arrived at Milan Central Station, I was blown away by its grandiosity. High ceilings, ornate detail, and Renaissance architecture characterized Milan Central, a hybrid of historical monument and train station. Buzzing with people and equipped with a string of retail stores, food vendors, and bookstores, the station helped me easily spend the hour I had before my departure. I boarded five minutes before my designated train left, without the hassle of long lines and the stress of security checks.
On the train, there was more than enough space for me to stretch out on the clean and comfy seat, and the large windows allowed for a quality view. Trains usually don’t fill up the way airplanes do, and because there were only about three people in my section of the train, I felt like I was in my own private section. It was snowing on the way to Bologna, and I admired open fields covered with blankets of snow, signs and billboards in Italian, and elaborate graffiti on passing buildings. There’s no need to turn off your electronic devices on the train, so you can work or browse your favorite sites undisturbed, without fear that your device will interfere with the captain’s radar.
My trip from Milan to Bologna cost 9 dollars each way. If that’s not a steal, I don’t know what is. Make sure to buy your train tickets in advance if you’ve already confirmed your itinerary; the earlier you do, the cheaper they will be. If you wait too long, your total might be looking closer to airfare.
Though not the fastest mode of transportation, trains provide an efficient, and stress-free travel experience. All you have to worry about is sinking into your seat, and taking in the views to come. It’s really that easy.
