Senior Train Fares in Europe
Senior travellers can benefit from discounted train fares across Europe. However, these discounts vary by country and are often tied to specific railcards or local fare types.
Rail Europe offers a wide range of fares, but not all senior discounts or railcards are available through our platform. Explore the country-specific sections below to understand what’s available.
IN THIS ARTICLE
- What qualifies as a senior fare
- Country-specific senior fares
- Railcards for seniors
- Availability on Rail Europe
What is a senior fare?
A senior fare is a discounted ticket available to travellers usually aged 60 years and above (age may vary by country).
Depending on the railway operator, senior discounts may be automatically applied, available only with a railcard, or limited to specific trains or routes.
Country-specific senior fares
- France
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- Belgium
- Netherlands
- Switzerland
- Spain
- Italy
France (SNCF)
Senior discount: Available with Carte Avantage Senior (60+) (~30% off)
Railcard required: Yes
Rail Europe availability: Railcard not sold; discount applies only if you hold the card
Germany (Deutsche Bahn)
Senior discount: No dedicated senior fare; discounts via BahnCard
Railcard required: Yes (not senior-specific)
Rail Europe availability: BahnCard not sold; discount applies only if held.
United Kingdom (National Rail)
Senior discount: Available with Senior Railcard (60+) (~1/3 off)
Railcard required: Yes
Rail Europe availability: Railcard not sold; discounts generally not applicable.
Belgium (SNCB/NMBS)
Senior discount: Available for 65+ on domestic routes
Railcard required: No
Rail Europe availability: Not available via Rail Europe.
Netherlands (NS)
Senior discount: No standard fare; discounts via subscription passes
Railcard required: Yes
Rail Europe availability: Not available via Rail Europe
Switzerland (SBB)
Senior discount: No dedicated fare; discounts via travelcards
Railcard required: Yes
Rail Europe availability: Railcards not sold; discount applies if held
Spain (Renfe)
Senior discount: Available with Tarjeta Dorada (60+)
Railcard required: Yes
Rail Europe availability: Not available via Rail Europe.
Italy (Trenitalia / Italo)
Senior discount: Limited availability on selected routes
Railcard required: Not always
Rail Europe availability: Limited, depends on train and fare.
Railcards for seniors
In many countries, senior discounts require a valid railcard.
Common examples include France: Carte Avantage Senior, UK: Senior Railcard, Spain: Tarjeta Dorada.
Railcards are typically valid for 1 year and must be presented during ticket inspection. They are generally not sold on Rail Europe.
Availability of Rail Europe
Some senior discounts may not be available via Rail Europe because they are local fares, require unsupported railcards, or are exclusive to railway websites or ticket offices.