After declining usage of the train networks throughout the late 1960’s and 1970’s, rail travel in Europe is enjoying a resurgence. Around 40000 packages are booked by Britons each year according the Great Rail Journeys, a specialist rail holiday travel company based in the United Kingdom.

There could be many reasons for this resurgence- fear of flying, wanting to slow down the hectic pace of life, and wanting to avoid crowded airports.

The 1950’s were probably the heyday of rail holidays.

Despite commercial air travel taking off after the second world war with an excess of military aircraft, train travel was still the most popular travel form as air travel was still fairly costly. Technological advances through the 60’s and 70’s saw air travel become more affordable, and a rail journey became the domain of the budget conscious traveler. However in recent times, budget airlines have been brought in for the budget traveler.

In the United Kingdom, the move back towards rail travel may in some way be related to the building of the Channel Tunnel. The tunnel makes access to the rest of Europe much more convenient. The Eurostar network with over 100 stations throughout Europe also makes it convenient to have many stops on your holiday. They also have a variety of short break packages for your shorter holiday.

Rail travel is considered by many to be a peaceful way to see Europe, and the trip itself becomes a part of the holiday, but it must also be noted that for some short journeys, train travel may actually take less time than air travel, with the added restrictions and time consuming requirements to get through customs.

Whatever the reasons for the resurgence, train travel is a great way to see Europe, either for a long term holiday through many countries, or for a short getaway.