European Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas has proposed the launch of a single European booking platform to simplify the process of purchasing tickets for multi-destination train journeys.
The platform would allow travellers to book an entire journey, including multiple destinations, with just one pass, and the full itinerary would be mapped out for them.
This proposal aims to make rail travel more accessible and appealing by reducing the complexity of booking individual connections, which can be time-consuming for travellers and travel agents alike.
"It is unbelievable that we do not have this in 2024," said Tzitzikostas. The initiative is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable transport options, making railways a more attractive alternative to flying.
For travellers, this means less time spent searching for and managing multiple bookings. For travel agents, the platform could streamline the booking process, potentially saving time and reducing errors, while also making it easier to plan trips involving multiple European destinations.
In addition to the booking platform, there are plans to develop a high-speed rail network connecting major European capitals, with sleeper trains potentially being integrated into the network. The platform is expected to launch in 2025, with updates on its progress to follow.