Understanding seat preference on trains

When booking train tickets with Rail Europe, you may see options to select a seat preference. These preferences help us communicate your choice to the rail operator, but they are not always guaranteed.

Depending on the train and route, you may be able to choose from the following:

Window – To be selected in case you prefer a window seat.
Aisle – In case you prefer a seat by the passageway.
Table – Seats around a shared table
Solo – Single seat (limited availability)
Quiet zone – Low-noise area (select trains)

Please Note:

Seat preferences are requests only and not guaranteed.
The final seat assignment is controlled by the train operator, not Rail Europe (exception: Trenitalia Italian train segments where seat selection is offered).
If your preference is unavailable, you will automatically be assigned the next best available seat.
Passengers on the same booking are usually seated together, but at times, maybe subject to availability.

France
Italy
Spain
UK
Germany
Switzerland
Czech Republic
Austria

TGV INOUI:

A table for two facing each other means two seats positioned opposite each other with a small table in between.

Side-by-side seats are two seats next to each other facing the same direction.

Seat on its own, no table refers to a single seat not paired with another and without a table.

Table for four refers to four seats facing each other with a shared table in the middle.

Lyria:

The upper deck is the top level with elevated views, while the lower deck is the bottom level with easier access on the Lyria train.

Tenitalia

Italo

Ouigo does not offer seat preference.

Renfe AVE, Iryo, Alvia, and Avant trains, a “seat on its own” refers to an individual seat that is not paired with another passenger.

Eurostar, Bene does not offer seat preference

RDG:

Airline-style seats arranged in rows facing the same direction, typically without a table, resembling aircraft seating
Forward-facing seat is one that faces the direction of travel.
Backward-facing seat is one that faces opposite to the direction of travel.
Table seat refers to seats arranged facing each other with a shared table in between.

DB

Mobile phone area is a section where phone calls and device use are permitted.

Open saloon is a shared seating area with rows of seats, as opposed to private compartments.

Open saloon with table refers to a shared seating area where seats face each other with a table in between.

Compartment is in a private enclosed cabin shared with a small group of passengers.