3 Week Interrail Route: Explore Europe by Train in 2024!

Ahhhh Europe! I do love the diversity. Sipping cocktails by the Seine River in Paris or Trekking up the Julian Alps in Slovenia. No matter where you go there is always a new and exciting adventure just waiting to happen.

I’ll never forget the day my ‘European Dreams’ became a reality. Travelling through Europe by train gave me my first ‘true’ taste for the travel lifestyle. I became obsessed and never looked back. Which ultimately led to me setting up my very own travel blog 😉

At the age of 19 over a few cocktails, a group of friends and I decided to sit down at my kitchen table and plan our first ever backpacking trip through Europe. We made a detailed list of the places we would like to see and the time frame we would like to see them in. We were determined to tick off some of Europe’s best interrail destinations, while also experiencing some of the more off the beaten path locations. And that is when we came up with our 3 week Interrail itinerary through Europe. And Today, I would like to share it with you guys.

So, if you are looking for an unforgettable summer, filled with endless memories and exciting experiences. Look no further, because this interrail 3 weeks itinerary is just what you are looking for.

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Next Stop Lake Bled, Slovenia

It’s is time for my favourite stop on the entire 3 week Europe trip, Slovenia. Slovenia is a truly magical country, from the moment I stepped foot in it, I felt like I had walked into a real life version of a fairytale. Other than it’s Disney like qualities, Slovenia is know for it’s alps line mountains, gorgeous national parks and glistening lakes.

There is so much to see and do it Slovenia, you would need weeks to get it all done. When staying in Slovenia, I’d recommend basing yourself at the stunning Lake Bled. It is extremely central and easy to get to most places.

Things to do in Slovenia:

1. Hike and Walk around Lake Bled
2. See the crystal clear what of the Emerald River
3. Skip rocks at Bohinj Lake
4. Take endless photos at the Vintgar Gorge.
5. Go on a Canyoning adventure in 3Glav National Park (perfect for adrenaline junkies)
6. Enjoy one of Slovenia’s beautiful hikes

Words can not describe how beautiful Slovenia really is. It’s a MUST HAVE destination on any interrailing route.

Recommended Stay Time: 4 days

Currency: They use Euro in Slovenia

Estimated Budget: The budget for everyday items like food, accommodation and small everyday activities are similar to split. So, €30 to €35 a day should do the trick. However, if you plan on taking part in adventure activities like Canyoning or a day trip around 3glav national park I’d suggest bringing €150 to €200 euro more. Trust me they are worth every penny.

Accommodation: Once again this trip was before my blogging days. I do, however, recommend booking with booking.com for peace of mind, reviews you can trust and FREE cancelation.

The 4th stop on our 3 week Interrail itinerary is Munich, Germany

My time in Munich was short so I can’t advise on many things to do there. I can, however, advise on what not to do when interrailing through Europe. Now one may ask, ‘how do 4 people end up stranded in a foreign city until 5am with no accommodation?’

And…

the answer is simple, we forgot to reserve our seats for a connecting train and when we arrived they where all sold out.

And…

The next train didn’t leave until 5 in the morning. So… that meant we where stuck there.

And it’s not over yet…

We also had the bright idea of storing our bags in lockers, which meant we had no clothes to change into. …but HEY! Things like this are all part of the experience, right?

Now, before you start panicking, not all interrail trains need reservations, just be sure to do your research which ones do before you leave.

Also, I can promise you it wasn’t all too bad. We got to spend 5 day light hours in an unexpected city. And at night, we finally convinced the bouncer to let us into a cocktail bar while wearing gym leggin’s and a hoodie, It took A LOT of pleading but it was worth it.

Now, you may be wondering why I decided to include Munich in this itinerary. Well… that’s because in those 5 short hours, I fell in LOVE with the cities astonishing buildings, wide high streets and the friendly people. And it’s only fair that you too get to experience it.

I did try to make another trip to Munich (and have since made it), but that’s another story for another time. because I should really get on with the Europe Itinerary…

Recommended Stay Time: 2 days

Related Post: The Best Food Tours in Munich

Next Stop on our 3 week interrail itinerary is Prague in the Czech Republic

Prague is an amazing city. It has a great nightlife scene and so many interesting places to explore. And for a nice extra bonus, it is super duper cheap.

Prague was mid way through out trip so it’s was nice to splash out a little bit knowing it wasn’t going to break the bank. You can walk around the city, experience the culture and make new friends all while spending barely any money. In fact, my favourite things to do in Prague where FREE or relatively cheap.

Things to do in Prague:

1. Go on one of Pragues many tours
2. Spend the night on a party boat
3. Rent a paddle boat on Vltava River
4. Explore the Old Town
5. walk across the Charles Bridge

Recommended Stay Time: 3 days

Currency: They use Czech Crowns in Prague

Estimated Budget: As mentioned, Prague is relatively cheap. Those travelling on a backpackers budget should get by with €30 a day.

Accommodation: Once again this trip was before my blogging days. I do, however, recommend booking with booking.com for peace of mind, reviews you can trust and FREE cancelation.

Next Stop on our 3 week interrail itinerary is Berlin in Germany

Berlin is one BIG city. You definitely need at least three days there. One to find your bearings and two for sightseeing and having a bit of a wander around. The historic city has so much to offer, you will find yourself getting lost easily, That’s why I recommend booking a hop on hop off bus tour. This will prevent you from missing out on all the top tourist attractions. It’s a great way to see the city without getting lost. I also recommend putting 3 or 4 days aside to explore Germanys Capital city.

Things to do in Berlin:

1. Check out the Brandenburg Gate
2. Take 101 photos of Berlin’s famous TV tower
3. Take a FREE walking tour
4. Check out Berlin’s nightlife scene
5. Learn about the Berlin Wall and it’s history

Recommended Stay Time: 3 days

Currency: They use Euro in Berlin

Estimated Budget: Berlin is expensive! So, depending on you want to do, I’d recommend bringing AT LEAST €50 a day. That will cover a backpackers food and accommodation. Activities will be extra.

Accommodation: Once again this trip was before my blogging days. I do, however, recommend booking with booking.com for peace of mind, reviews you can trust and FREE cancelation.

Next Stop on our 3 week interrail itinerary is Amsterdam in the Netherlands

Amsterdam is one amazing city! In fact, it is one of my favourites in all of Europe. One of the best things about Amsterdam is the cities size. It is easy to walk about without the need of public transport. Amsterdam is a must on any Europe itinerary.

Things to do in Amsterdam:

1. Visit Anne Franks House
2. Walk the street and get awesome pictures of the Amsterdam canals
3. Go on a FREE walking tour
4. Enjoy Amsterdams Nightlife scene
5. Take a boat cruise

Recommended Stay Time: 3 days

Currency: They use Euro in Amsterdam

Estimated Budget: Amsterdam can be expensive, that of course depends on want you want to do, I’d recommend bringing AT LEAST €50 a day. That will cover a backpackers food and accommodation and some activities will be extra.

Accommodation: Once again this trip was before my blogging days. I do, however, recommend booking with booking.com for peace of mind, reviews you can trust and FREE cancelation.

Last Stop: Paris, France interrail routes

It wouldn’t be a European adventure without stopping off in the city of love. Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, although it can be very expensive, it is definitely worth it. Much like Berlin, Paris is a big city, however, I recommend walking as much as you possibly can. This way you can experience the culture, city life and all that Paris has to offer. The picture above was taking from Galleries Lafayette. It’s my favourite view of Paris.

Things to do in Paris:

1. Take photos of the Eiffel Tower from ever angle.
2. Find that famous painting of Mona Lisa in the Louvre.
3. Find all of Paris Instagramable Spots
4. Try a French baguette
5. Get a picture with the Arc de Triomphe

Recommended Stay Time: 3 days

Currency: They use Euro in Paris

Estimated Budget: The budget needed for Paris would be similar to that of Berlin, So €50 a day is a must. Once again that will cover a backpackers food and accommodation for the day. Activities will be extra.

Accommodation: Once again this trip was before my blogging days. I do, however, recommend booking with booking.com for peace of mind, reviews you can trust and FREE cancelation.

The 3 Week Interrail Train Schedule

Next, I will walk you through the train schedule for this suggested 3 week interrail route. Please note that the recommended time frame for this interrail itinerary is 3 weeks and will involve night train, direct trains and local trains.

Train Journey 1: Budapest (Hungry) to Split (Croatia)

It is actually super exciting boarding the first train of any interrail trip. Nerves are high and the excitement is even higher. It may feel as if you are completely unprepared but soon you will be a pro at travelling Europe by train.

The first journey on the list is Budapest to Split. This is the longest travel period of the trip. It takes a total of 15 hours and 1 change over (under two hours) in Zagreb Croatia.

Don’t let the long train time scare you, the train journey’s are what you make them. Start to socialise with other travellers, exchange stories and make lifelong friends.

The first train journey is a day train and does not require a reservation. It is however, a popular route so if you want a guaranteed seat I suggest making a booking.

The second train is a night train, once again a reservation is not required. It is however important to note that to stay in a sleeper carriage requires a reservation.

Train Journey 2: Split (Croatia) to Lake Bled (Slovenia)

The next train journey on the interrail itinerary is Split to Lake Bled. Now, Lake Bled can be a little tricky to get too but… 100% totally worth it. So, if you are willing to make the journey this is the best route.

Book a bed in the sleeper carriage for the night train going from split to Zagreb taking a total of 8 hours. Once you arrive in Zagreb hop on a train to Jesenice, Slovenia for a 3 hour and minute journey.

At Jesenice you will have to catch a local bus to Lake Bled from the train station. It will cost about 3 euros.

Train Journey 3: Lake Bled (Slovenia) to Munich (Germany)

Ok, so as I mentioned I ended up in Munich by complete accident. So, my train schedule from Bled was a bit topsy turvy.

I do, however recommend you take the night train pictured above. Please note that schedule changes on a regular basis and reservation is required. So, be sure to check the interrail train scheduler for updates.

Train Journey 4: Munich (Germany) to Prague (Czech Republic)

The journey from Munich to Prague is an easy 4 hour and 40 minute ride. The only difference is it’s a bus journey instead of train. Don’t worry it is included in the interrail pass. Just note that a reservation is required.

Train Journey 5: Prague (Czech Republic) to Berlin (Germany)

The next journey on our interrail itinerary is Prague to Berlin. This journey takes a total of 4 hours and runs several times a day. No reservation in required and there is a bar on board 😉

Train Journey 5: Berlin (Germany) to Amsterdam (The Netherlands)

A direct train from Berlin to Amsterdam takes 6 hours and 20 minutes. No reservation is required and the route runs at least twice daily. Alternatively, there is a route with a similar ETA with one change over.

Train Journey 5: Amsterdam (The Netherlands) to Paris (France)

The final train journey of our interrail route is from Amsterdam to Paris. It takes a total of 3 hours and 20 minutes to complete. BUT… A RESERVATION IS REQUIRED. Don’t make the same mistake as I did. I end up spending an extra 3 hours on local trains as I overlooked the reservation.

What is Interrailing?

Interrailing is an amazing experience, one that can’t be missed. It is a hassle-free way of visiting several European countries without the dreaded airport liness, long stopovers and waiting at the baggage claim.

Interrailing is possibly one of the most popular travel experience for those on a gap year, young college students or adventurous backpackers. It is a ‘unlimited rail pass’ so to speak. A pass that grants ticket holders access to over 30 countries in Europe, with free use of their well connected train routes. All without the need to purchase a ticket, at least most of the time. <- A little more that later.

Who can avail of the Interrail Pass?

The interrail pass is available to anyone who has citizenship in Europe. For those of you living outside of Europe, don’t worry, there is an alternative pass called ‘Eurrail’. It can be slightly more expensive, but still 10 times cheaper than booking individual train tickets. Unless you are a really good planner and book WELL in advance.

however, there is one catch, do you remember that old saying ‘Age is but a number’ well that doesn’t apply in interrail territory. When it comes the prices, interrail is most definitely in favour of those on the more youthful side of life.

Interrail offers a hefty discount to those between the ages of 12 to 27. So, if your are starting to enter your mid 20’s like myself. I suggest you get in there quickly and book your interrail pass today.

It is however, not the end of the world, for those of you a little bit older. Interrail still over rail passes, just not at a discounted price.

*Find a list of the countries that qualify for an interrail pass click here*

Is there just one type of Interrail pass?

There are three types of Interrail passes, the Global Pass, the One Country Pass and the Premium Pass. The Global pass allows passengers to travel through the majority of European countries using the one train ticket. The One Country pass allows passengers to travel freely through one country. The Premium Pass allows passengers to travel through Italy or Spain with pre-booked seats and unlimited journeys a day. 

If you are planning on using my interrail Itinerary, you will need to book the Global Pass.

Can you explain how the Global Pass Works?

Certainly, The Global pass is designed to allow passengers to travel to over 40,000 European destinations by train, including 31 countries in total. There are two types of Interrail Global Passes. The non consecutive pass and the continuous pass.

The non consecutive pass gives ticket holders the option to travel Europe by train over a certain period of time using a certain amount of days. Generally speaking, this pass is for those who plan on spending two, three or more days at each destination.

An example of the non consecutive pass is the 10 days within two months pass. That pass allows passengers to use their interrail pass 10 times over the space of 2 months. The pass can be used every few days or one day after the other. Get you non consecutive interrail pass here.

The continuous pass allows passengers to use their pass whenever they like during a set period of time, without having to worry about having a limited number of days. This pass is usually purchased by people who are planning on spending 1 day in each destination and then moving on to the next.

An example of the continuous interrail pass is the 22 days pass. The pass allows interrail passengers to travel freely through Europe as they please. Get your Continuous interrail pass here.

Are there any additional costs with the Interrail pass?

Yes, if you want to take any trains that need reservations, they come at an additional cost. Which is something you need to factor into your Interrail Budget. I will let you know the trains that need reservation for my interrail itinerary in the train schedule section of this post. 

It also cost extra to purchase a bed on the night trains. Just think of it as paying for a nights stay in a hostel, but instead of waking up in the same room, you will wake in a new exciting destination. Like, how cool is that?

Related Post: The best hostels in Europe (My Personal Review)

And that’s a wrap!

This brings us to the end of our European itinerary. I want to thank you for taking the time to read this post and hope it helps you plan your backpacking europe route! Have an amazing adventure.

All train timetable screenshots where taking from the Interrail Train Time Planner. I don’t own these screenshots. Interrail tickets can be purchased on the official Interrail Website.

Disclaimer: Please note, this website contains affiliate links, as by I may make a little commission. This is at no extra cost to you.

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