Train Reservations

[europebound]

Hi,

I'm hoping someone can shed some light as to why everyone says to reserve your train a couple of days in advance? We're using a 30 day Eurail pass for our itenery seen here: pretravel.proboards1.com/index.cgi?board=intinary&action=display&n=1&thread=7244

Our travel agent said it's best to book the IC and ICE trains a couple of days in advance. She's actually gone on holidays now so I can't email her again asking this question..

Why not book them all now? Or do you have to actually be there, at the station to make the reservation?

If we're at certain city for 2 nights, would we better off making the reservation for the next trip when we first arrive at the station from which we'll be departing? Does that make sense?

Thanks and sorry I've missed a previous thread on this, I did have a look...albeit quickly

[Eagle]

europebound, first of all, not all trains require reservations. However, some trains have mandatory reservations, which has to be purchased in addition to your ticket or rail pass. In most cases the high speed trains (TGV, etc.) and some IC & ICE trains are subject to mandatory reservations. If a particular train requires a reservation, DON'T be caught without the "ticket" or you'll get nicked with a fine on the spot!!! The station office will issue you a small card, which will have your Car and Seat number listed (the words for each of these will vary by country).

I wouldn't bother booking them now, if that's even possible? I've never tried to book on the net? It's much easier to do it at the station when you're there. Your suggestion of "making your reservation for the next trip when you arrive" is a good way to do it - that's a method I often use. If I'm going to be in a particular place for a week or more, I usually make a trip to the station a couple of days before departure, and pick up the reservation then.

I can't recall when you're taking your trip? Even if a particular train doesn't require a reservation, there are some cases (ie: during local holiday times) when it's probably a good idea to get a reservation anyway. Check the bahn.de website to see which of your routes are subject to a reservation (there will be a small red "R" shown).

Hope this has answered your question. Happy travels!!!

[europebound]

Thanks Eagle, that cleas up a few things.

We leave in 19 days, 12 hours and 32 minutes...not that we're counting down or anything

We've already got a spreadsheet done up with which trains we're catching so I'll check it tonight when I get home to see which ones require reservation.

Thanks again