Eurolines*
is a Europe wide bus service. It comprises a number of bus companies all co-operating to link the major cities in Europe. Taking the bus is not the fastest or most comfortable mode of transport but it competitively priced and has the lowest carbon footprint.
Coaches
generally seat about 40 passengers. The coaches have good
storage under the main seating area so that 2 standard sized
suitcases or rucksacks can be carried. Some services will also
accommodate sports equipment such as skis or snowboards if
carried in a bag.
Sadly the service from Amsterdam to Milan via Chamonix doesn't
allow snowboards or skis.
On board the seats will recline to about 60 degrees. Seat belts are provided and should be worn. Curtains and reading lights are available for night journeys. Many of the routes are timetabled to run overnight, so if you are good at sleeping on buses, you can save a night at a hotel or hostel. Don't expect to get a really good nights sleep though! There is usually one on-board chemical toilet although services usually stop every 2 hours at Auto route service areas. LCD TV's showing DVD's are offered on some services.
Booking is straightforward over the Internet where some exceptionally cheap deals are available if you book at the right time. You can print out your ticket on line.
Advantages
Usually, cheap, environmentally friendly and you generally get a good view of the countryside you travel through.Disadvantages
Slow travel as buses travel into each city en route, stops frequently for breaks. Not the most comfortable choice for sleeping.Web:
Why the *?
There are two types of link on Eurapart. Normal and Affiliate. Affiliate links are identified with an * (asterix). When you use the highlighted links, then the Eurapart site may receive commission from that company, if certain other conditions are met.The second type of link will take you to the company's site, but without this site getting any commision use this link: Eurolines