Table of Contents
One of the greatest joys of European train travel is the “train picnic.”
Imagine this: You are speeding through the French countryside at 300km/h. On your tray table, you have a fresh baguette, some camembert cheese, grapes, and a bottle of Bordeaux.
Did you buy this expensive meal in the dining car? No. You bought it at a local supermarket for €12.
But is this allowed? Are you breaking any rules?
Here is everything you need to know about eating and drinking on European trains.
The Rules: Food
Yes, you can bring your own food.
Unlike airplanes (where liquids are banned) or some city buses (no eating allowed), long-distance trains in Europe are very relaxed. You are absolutely allowed to bring your own groceries on board.
In fact, it is a local tradition. If you look around, you will see families unpacking sandwiches, salads, and snacks.
What to avoid:
- Smelly Food: Please, for the sake of your neighbors, do not bring boiled eggs, strong tuna sandwiches, or fast food that smells like grease (McDonald’s/KFC). The ventilation is good, but not that good.
- Messy Food: Trains move and shake. Soup is a bad idea.
The Rules: Alcohol
Can you drink alcohol on the train?
Generally, YES. In most of mainland Europe (France, Italy, Germany, Spain), you are free to bring your own beer or wine and drink it at your seat. It is perfectly legal and socially acceptable, as long as you are behaving responsibly.
Important Exceptions (Read This!)
There are a few specific cases where alcohol is restricted:
- Eurostar (London to Paris/Brussels):
- They have strict limits. You can bring 4 cans of beer OR 1 bottle of wine per person. No hard liquor (spirits) allowed. If you bring more, they will confiscate it at security.
- Night Trains (Sleepers):
- On some lines (like the Caledonian Sleeper in the UK or some Nightjet routes), you are technically supposed to buy alcohol from the onboard bar, not drink your own supply in the cabin. However, this is rarely strictly enforced if you are quiet and private in your own compartment.
- Local Transport / Commuter Trains:
- In some cities (like London Overground or Munich S-Bahn), drinking alcohol is banned on local commuter trains. But for long-distance Intercity trains, it’s fine.
The Dining Car (Bistro)
If you didn’t pack a lunch, don’t worry. Most high-speed trains (TGV, ICE, Frecciarossa) have a Restaurant Car or Bistro.
- Coffee: Usually excellent (espresso machines).
- Food: Decent, but overpriced. Think €8 for a sandwich.
- Vibe: It’s a nice place to stretch your legs and stand at a high table while watching the world go by.
The Ultimate Train Picnic Checklist
Want to travel like a pro? Stop at a supermarket (Carrefour, Lidl, Tesco) near the station before you board and grab:
- Fresh Bread / Pastries (No knife needed).
- Sliced Cheese & Cured Meats (Salami/Prosciutto).
- Cherry Tomatoes / Grapes (Easy to eat, no mess).
- Water (Stay hydrated!).
- Napkins / Wet Wipes (Crucial).
- A Bottle Opener / Corkscrew (If you bring wine).
Pro Tip: Don’t forget a small trash bag. Be a good traveler and take your garbage with you when you leave the train.
Summary
Skip the overpriced bistro sandwich. Grab a bottle of wine and some local snacks, and enjoy the best dining view in the world for a fraction of the price. Bon appétit!
