European Rail Travel - Where should I go in October?

I am looking to spend a month in Europe in October of this year to visit some friends. It will be my first time there. Where I will be going in Europe is Spain (Madrid and Ibiza), Bulgaria (all over) and possibly France (central and southern riviera). However, I'd like to see at least one more country -- at least.

Where does European rail travel come in? I'll be traveling with a 1st class Eurail Global Pass Flexi...and using budget airlines when needed.

As the Rail Europe certificate reads,


"The travel days may be used consecutively or non-consecutive in a period of two months. Available countries are the following: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, Republic of Ireland (includes Northern Ireland), Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and The Netherlands."

What do you recommend I do; where else should I go in the countries I'm going to visit (Spain, Bulgaria and France); which are the best trains to take; how soon in advance should I reserve the train; how much will taxes on 1st class Eurail cost (approx.); what times on train are best to depart/arrive; when would it be wiser to fly; and what other country or countries do you recommend I visit?

*takes a breath*

If you need any additional information, please let me know.

Thank you for your time.

As it is autumn the weather can be quite rainy and cold at least in the central and northern parts of Europe. You might think of a city you really like to see and go there (Rome, Paris, London, Berlin). If you want to add a place in Spain I would suggest Barcelona which is just a great place to be (old buildings, modern architecture, cool lifestyle).

Hope this helps a bit.

Thanks, DaniD! Barcelona sounds great.

Any tips on how to get from A to B on the Eurail, how much it will cost for taxes since I have the pass, etc.?

Any tips on how to get from A to B on the Eurail, how much it will cost for taxes since I have the pass, etc.?

Sorry I have absolutely no clue about this, but I am sure the specialists will respond soon.

As it is autumn the weather can be quite rainy and cold at least in the central and northern parts of Europe. You might think of a city you really like to see and go there (Rome, Paris, London, Berlin). If you want to add a place in Spain I would suggest Barcelona which is just a great place to be (old buildings, modern architecture, cool lifestyle).

Hope this helps a bit.

I second the Barcelona suggestion -- one of the most enjoyable, exciting and DELICIOUS of all European cities, in my opinion. Enjoy the salmorejo (mmmm) and Park Guell (a Gaudi delight). As for point-to-point train tips, I'll defer to FTers with more visits.

Hotelwise a goof dreinf of mine is raving about "!Arts Hotel" right at the olympic harbour, if you are looking for 5* Accomodation.