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I thought train systems were heavily subsidized by the state across Europe. Why are tickets so expensive? The distance isn't far at all, by American standards I
by scurvy 8y ago
I thought train systems were heavily subsidized by the state across Europe. Why are tickets so expensive? The distance isn't far at all, by American standards I'd expect to pay roughly $20-30 for a train ticket across that distance. 150 EUR you should be able to fly for that price.
- rayiner 8y agoGerman/UK/French trains are less subsidized than in the U.S. That is to say, the government subsidizes the capital costs, but not the operating costs. 150 euro is not expensive for that distance. That's almost as long as DC to Boston, which is a $200+ Amtrak ticket (Northeast Regional, not even Acela) during business hours on a weekday.
- the_mitsuhiko 8y agoThe systems in Germany, Switzerland and Austria are only cheap if you get a discount card or book tickets ahead of time. Once you have a discount card they are very cheap though.
- dagw 8y ago150 EUR you should be able to fly for that price. Taking the train between major cities is often more expensive than flying in Europe. People choose the train because it's comfortable and convenient, not because it's cheap. Also 150 EUR is a full price ticket. If you book a few weeks in advance, and are willing to take the 'slow' train you can probably get a ticket around 30 EUR.
- gpvos 8y agoDepending on the route, often even on the day before. On more popular routes, prices rise more quickly though.
- gpvos 8y agoLong-distance services run with no or little subsidies. Regional services, especially in rural areas, are fairly heavily subsidized.