Key takeaways
- Children aged 4–11 travel free with a free Child pass.
- Each adult can usually add up to two free children.
- Under-4s travel free without a pass but without a guaranteed seat.
- Reservations and bed fees still apply to children on trains that require them.
Adding children correctly
Add each child to the booking under an accompanying adult, youth aged 18+, or senior. Done correctly, the Child pass costs nothing. The free pass covers the fare element only — it does not waive seat or sleeper reservation fees.
Where extra costs appear
On high-speed and night trains, a child usually needs their own reserved seat or bed, and those fees are charged per person. Budget for reservations on the legs that require them, especially sleepers.
Frequently asked questions
Do children need their own reservations?
Yes, on trains that require reservations a child needs their own seat or bed, and the reservation fee applies even though the Child pass itself is free.