The following are a list and description of the major High-Speed rail lines:
Acela
With stops in major cities from Boston to Washington, Acela offers the most convenient transportation there is. You won't need a taxi to get from the station to your meeting; unlike airports miles away from the city center, Acela brings you to the heart of downtown, just blocks from where you want to be.
Acela is fast becoming the preferred choice of travel in the Northeast — make it yours.
Eurostar England-Belgium-France
This is the most well known of the high-speed trains. The Eurostar travels at speeds of up to 300kmh (186 mph) on high-speed lines, and covers the distance between London and France in 3 hours. In addition, the Eurostar travels to Brussels, Calais and special ski locations. Rail passes are not valid on these trains. However, rail pass holders do pay a reduced fare of 75% of full price in 1st class, or 65% of full price in 2nd class.
ES* Italia
This is an exciting new line of trains that runs within Italy, connecting main Italian cities and towns with faster, more comfortable service. Rail pass holders are accepted and pay a supplement fee including the mandatory reservation. Supplements are non-refundable.
Thalys
The most common train between
ICE Austria-Germany-Switzerland
At a top speed of 280kmh (174mph) the ICE trains connect major German cities on 7 lines at hourly intervals, including some that go to Switzerland. ICE trains have in-seat video screens, integral audio system, plugs for laptop notebooks and telecommunication zone areas for clear cell-phone reception as well as public payphones. Panoramic lounges are available. Rail pass holders are welcomed with no extra charge. Reservations are not required on most trains, but encouraged for groups and during peak periods.
TGV Belgium-France-Switzerland
This train is the fastest of the high-speed lines with record times of 515kmh (320mph). A new extension has been added to the TGV lines for June 2001. TGV Mediterranee, will reduce travel time from
X2000 Sweden-Denmark
X2000 is a high-speed train that travels on existing tracks and travels from city center to city center at speeds up to 200kmh (124mph). First class passengers receive free coffee, tea, Swedish newspapers and radio and music channels. Rail pass holders are welcome in 1st and Economy with a reservation fee.
Artesia de Jour France-Italy
Rail pass holders welcome. Reservation is necessary.
AVE Spain
Rail pass holders are accepted but must pay a supplement. Holders of a Youth Pass are accepted in "tourist" class only. A reservation is necessary.
Cisalpino Switzerland-Italy-Germany
Cisalpino is a high-speed train that travels on existing tracks. Tilting technology keeps trains running smoothly and efficiently. Rail pass holders are welcome and pay a small supplement.
Euromed Spain
Rail pass holders are accepted and pay supplements for the following: Barcelona- Valencia, and Barcelona-Alicante.
Talgo Triana Spain
Rail pass holders accepted and pay a supplement.
Signatur Norway
Rail pass holders are accepted in 2nd class. First class travel requires a supplement in addition to a 1st class rail pass. Reservations are necessary