It depends on the class of your Pass. With a 1st class Pass, you can book reservations in both 1st and 2nd class. With a 2nd class Pass, you can only book 2nd class reservations.
If you have a 1st class Pass
You can choose 1st or 2nd class reservations, so if 1st class is sold out on your train, you can book a seat in 2nd class instead. Availability is separate for each class, which is why one class can be sold out while the other still has seats.
Keep in mind that you won’t get a refund or partial reimbursement for travelling in 2nd class with a 1st class Pass, as set out in the Interrail Pass Conditions of Use.
If you have a 2nd class Pass
You can only book reservations in 2nd class. You can’t upgrade to 1st class with a 2nd class Pass, even if you pay extra. To travel in 1st class, you’d need a 1st class Pass, or a regular 1st class ticket bought from the train operator.
Night trains
On most night trains, couchettes and sleeping cabins aren’t split into classes, so you can book them with either a 1st or 2nd class Pass. The price depends on the option you choose, from a reclining seat to a private cabin.
Some night trains, like SJ night trains in Sweden, do have class-based options. You’ll see which options are available for your Pass when you book.
Good to know
- Travelling as a group: if your group has both 1st and 2nd class Passes, we’ll only show 2nd class seats when you book together, so you can all sit together.
- Trains with only one class: some trains, such as some regional trains, only have one class. You can travel on them with either Pass.