The European Union is the only area in the world where citizens are protected by a full set of passenger rights – whether they travel by air, rail, ship, bus or coach. EU legislation for Rail Passenger Rights entered into force in December 2009.
Under these European rules, passengers can for instance be entitled to financial compensation if their train arrives at destination with a delay of 1 hour or more. Delayed passengers can also be entitled to meals and refreshments (proportionate to the waiting time), and accommodation if they have to stay overnight.
All information can be found on 'Your Europe’ website, where applicable passenger rights are translated in all EU languages. A smartphone app is also available, and can be downloaded for free for Google Android, iPhone, iPad, and Windows Phone.