Originally Posted by simpleflyer
No, they aren't worth it, or rarely are. Buy point-to-point.
The costs for doing this in some countries, notably anywhere in northern Europe or Switzerland, will rack up
very quickly.
For many trains, you end up having to pay supplements and/or get reservations in additional to the pass anyway, so there goes the so-called 'convenience.'
Supplements can be paid on board. Trains that absolutely, positively require reservations are few and far between, and unless you're in peak season on a peak route there's little reason to get them if they're optional.
And for me, the greatest attraction of a rail pass is the
flexibility, especially when exploring a new region. Want to stay a little longer? No problem! Don't like the look of a town? Hop on the next train out! Sunny day? Take a train to the beach or the mountains. Rainy today? Head back to the city.