In general, trains have two classes of seating: first class and second class. Second class seats are narrower than first class, and may even be bench-like seating on older or slower trains. Sometimes second class seats recline, but more often they do not. First class offers wider and plusher seats, more legroom, and sometimes a more formal atmosphere. Most first class passengers are traveling for business. However, the difference between the seating classes on trains in Europe is not as great as the difference between classes on an airplane. Second class is plenty comfortable and is generally a no-brainer for anyone on a budget. It can also be more fun, as many first-class travelers are businesspeople looking to get work done, while youll have an easier time striking up a conversation in second class. First class is often less crowded, which is a significant plus on popular routes at peak times when it can be hard to find a seat in second class. First class also has wider seats and aisles and is more likely to have amenities such as air-conditioning and power outlets (though outlets are still rare on Europes trains, in any class) . With a first-class pass, you can travel in a second-class car, although the conductor may give you a puzzled look. Those with a second-class pass can usually pay the difference in ticket price to upgrade to a first-class.