The 7pm rule was a policy for European rail pass holders that allowed overnight train travel to count as just one travel day. If you boarded a direct night train after 7:00 PM and arrived after 4:00 AM the next day, only the arrival date was counted as your travel day. This saved travelers a day on their flexi passes and helped reduce accommodation costs. However, the rule ended on January 1, 2019. Now, only the train’s departure date counts as the travel day, simplifying the system but reducing flexibility for budget-conscious travelers.
Current Night Train Rules
When the 7pm Rule Ended
The 7pm rule officially ended on January 1, 2019 [2]. This change came about as classic overnight trains became less common, and the rail pass system needed simplification. During 2019, operators allowed both the old and new rules to coexist briefly as part of a transitional phase [2][3].
New Rules for Night Trains
Under the current rules, only the departure date of your night train counts as your travel day [1]. Here’s a breakdown of how this works in different scenarios:
| Scenario | Travel Day Usage | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Night Train | Only departure date counts | Depart July 1 at 8:00 PM, arrive July 2 at 7:00 AM = July 1 only |
| Train Change After Midnight | Both dates count | First train on July 1 until 12:30 AM; second train on July 2 at 1:00 AM = Both July 1 and 2 |
| Multiple Trains Before Midnight | Only departure date counts | All connections before midnight count as July 1 only |
For travelers using flexi passes (like a "7 days within 1 month" pass), these updated rules mean you’ll need to plan carefully to get the most out of your limited travel days [1].
Night Train Rules in Practice
Night Ferry Rules
When it comes to overnight ferry travel, the rules differ significantly from those of night trains. For ferries, travelers have the flexibility to choose either the departure date or the arrival date as their travel day. This added choice can be a game-changer, especially for pass holders navigating both rail and maritime routes across Europe’s extensive transportation networks [1].
Night Trains in Europe Are a Game-Changer! 🚆 Top 5 Sleeper Trains You NEED to Experience
Planning Night Train Travel
Careful planning can make night train travel a smart way to save time and get the most out of your travel days.
Choosing Direct Routes
To make the most of your trip, aim for direct routes whenever possible. These routes reduce the need for additional travel days and avoid the hassle of late-night transfers. Look for trains labeled as direct or non-stop in the timetable, especially for overnight journeys between major cities. This approach ensures you can maximize the benefits of your pass while enjoying a smoother travel experience.
Mixing Day and Night Travel
Combining day and night travel is another great way to explore more. Spend your day sightseeing in one city, then hop on an evening train to wake up in a new destination the next morning. It’s an efficient way to cover ground while still enjoying the journey.
Conclusion
Making the most of your Europe rail pass means staying up-to-date on night train rules and planning carefully. While the historic 7 PM rule is no longer in effect, modern night train travel comes with its own set of guidelines, especially regarding reservations and varying costs depending on the route and service.
To travel smoothly, focus on strategic planning and choosing the most efficient routes. Direct routes not only make your journey easier but can also help reduce reservation expenses. Balancing day and night travel is a smart way to stretch the value of your rail pass.
Here are a few tips to enhance your night train experience:
- Reserve seats as early as possible to secure your spot.
- Account for all reservation costs to avoid surprises.
- Choose direct routes whenever you can to simplify your plans.
FAQs
What is the 7 PM Rule for night trains and how can it help maximize travel days?
The 7 PM Rule is a handy perk for travelers using Interrail or Eurail passes. Here’s how it works: if you hop on a night train after 7:00 PM and it arrives the next day, only that following day is counted as a travel day on your pass. This clever rule lets you save a travel day while covering significant distances overnight.
To take full advantage of this, make sure your night train departs after 7:00 PM and meets the pass requirements. Strategically planning your trips around this rule can help you stretch your travel pass and explore even more destinations on your journey.
How does the 7 PM Rule apply to night trains when using Interrail or Eurail passes?
The 7 PM Rule is a handy guideline for those using Interrail or Eurail passes on night trains. Here’s how it works: if your night train departs after 7:00 PM and arrives the next day, only the arrival day will count as a travel day on your pass. This means you can stretch your travel days further and save one for another trip.
For instance, let’s say your night train leaves at 8:00 PM on March 10 and arrives at 6:00 AM on March 11. In this case, only March 11 will be marked as a travel day. However, keep in mind that this rule doesn’t apply to night ferries, so make sure to review the specific terms for those journeys.
How does the 7 PM rule work for night trains with Interrail and Eurail passes?
The 7 PM rule is a handy perk for travelers using Interrail or Eurail passes on night trains. Here’s how it works: if your night train leaves after 7:00 PM and arrives the following day, you only need to use one travel day on your pass – the day you arrive. This way, you can stretch your travel days further while enjoying long-distance night train journeys.
For instance, imagine your train departs at 8:00 PM on November 10 and reaches its destination at 6:00 AM on November 11. In this case, you’d only need to mark November 11 as your travel day. However, this rule applies exclusively to direct night trains without any transfers before midnight. Be sure to double-check your itinerary to ensure it qualifies!