Want to save money, or prefer a scenic ride over a fast one? You can often plan your trip using trains that don't need a seat reservation. Here's how.
Remember, your first 4 seat reservations are free with your seat reservation credits. How seat reservation credits work
Use the filter in the Planner
In the Planner, tap Filters and turn on No seat reservations required. The Planner then only shows trains that don't need a seat reservation. To see the fastest options again, just turn the filter off. How the Planner works
Travel in countries where seat reservations are rarely needed
In these countries, most domestic trains don't need a seat reservation: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Switzerland. In Great Britain, seat reservations are usually optional and free. In Eastern Europe, it varies from train to train.
For details per country, check the Rail network guides in the app under More > Travel guides.
Make the most of your seat reservations
If there's no slower train you can take instead, there are still ways to use fewer seat reservations. Check our tips for travelling in France and Italy. Some of them may work for your route too.
Look for other ways to travel
Your Pass gives you discounts on things like hostels, attractions and transport. On some routes, a discounted ferry or bus can be a good alternative to an expensive seat reservation. Check Pass Benefits
Ask other DiscoverEU travellers
Join the official #DiscoverEU Facebook group to ask other travellers for advice. Some may know the area you're travelling through and can suggest nice stopovers. Others may have taken the same route and found a way around seat reservations.