A Eurail Pass is not likely to pay for itself if you're planning to stick to France alone. The pass, which must be purchased before arrival in Europe, allows unlimited free first-class train travel in France and 16 other countries, and is available for periods ranging from 15 days to 3 months. There's a Eurail Youthpass, valid for second-class travel for those under 26, and a Eurail Saverpass if you're travelling with up to four companions.You stand a better chance of getting your money's worth out of a Eurail Flexipass, which is good for 10 or 15 days' travel within a 2-month period. This, too, comes in youth and group versions. In addition, a scaled-down version of the Flexipass, the Europass, allows first-class and youth (second-class) travel in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Switzerland for a specified number of days within 2 months. Up to four "associate" countries (Austria/Hungary, Benelux, Greece, Portugal) can be included for an additional fee. Again a discounted version is available for two or more people travelling together.
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