Rail discount aims to ease overtourism

Nearly two million Australians went to Europe last year — 37 per cent of them during the peak European summer months of June to August.

And, also according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, July was the busiest month of all.

So there is no doubt that Australians are adding to already overcrowded cities and attractions during peak season, says a spokesperson for Eurail, which last year sent more than 57,000 Aussies to Europe with a flexible Eurail Pass.

And Eurail has stepped in to help ease the problem, calling on Australians to rethink when they travel to Europe.

It is putting an incentive behind the suggestion, aiming to encourage a behavioural shift.

It has a 20 per cent off travel in shoulder seasons — September to November, and February to May. The offer is on until July 3, 2025, and we have full details in our fact file.

Eurail is aiming to play a positive role in helping to better manage visitor number peaks and troughs.

“Travelling outside of the peak European summer months can be just as rewarding,” says Emmeliek Preijde, head of customer experience at Eurail. “The delights of summer in Europe extend long into the off-season, with many parts of the continent still experiencing glorious sunny days into September and October, followed by the colourful autumnal displays of November. Spring is another great time to visit, ahead of the peak summer crowds.”

Emmeliek continues: “For travellers who choose to visit Europe in the shoulder seasons, there are financial benefits too. Not only are long-haul flights and accommodation generally more affordable, but with Eurail’s latest 20 per cent off offer, there are further savings to be had for travelling outside of peak season.”

fact file

Eurail is offering 20 per cent off all Eurail Global Passes and One Country Passes (in both 1st and 2nd class travel) for travel which commences on or after 1 September 2025.

Until Thursday July 3, 2025, the incentive will see the most comprehensive Adult Eurail Global Pass (Three Months Continuous, 1st Class) drop from its usual $2149 to $1719.20 (saving $429.80), while the cheapest Adult Eurail Global Pass (Four Days within One Month, 2nd Class) will drop from its usual $501 to $400.80 (saving $100.20).

Further discounts apply for Senior travellers (aged 60+) and Youth travellers (aged 12-27), while up to two Child travellers (aged 4-11) can travel for free with an accompanying Adult traveller. Purchasers of Eurail Passes have an 11 month window to activate their Pass for travel, from date of issue.

Visit eurail.com or a travel agent before July 3 for further details.