DIY: How to pick accommodation

Choosing accommodation for an overland rail trip requires balancing train timetables with hotel locations and booking flexibility. Focusing on station proximity and adaptable cancellation policies ensures your stays remain stress-free, even if train schedules shift.

If you book with Byway, we handle all transport and accommodation bookings, so you can leave the logistics to us and enjoy a seamless journey. But if you're planning your own DIY adventure, our guide will help you secure the best stay for travelling by rail.

Rafael Hoyos Weht

The best booking platforms for rail-friendly stays

For independent accommodation with character, Sawdays is a good place to start, with stays across France, Italy and the UK. Expedia covers a broad range, and Booking.com has wide coverage and a Genius loyalty discount that adds up over time. Airbnb works well for self-catering, especially on longer stays where having a small kitchen can be a nice change from eating out. Reaching out to individual hotels directly is often the best way to secure the best rate. 

Booking with Byway means you can select from our handpicked accommodation, all approved by us, and optimised for overland travel with easy access to the train station.

Booking direct vs. using hotel aggregators

While aggregator sites are excellent for comparing market rates, booking directly with a hotel often unlocks better pricing, superior customer service, and fairer terms for the property owners. Secure your rates via direct channels where possible, but always verify individual hotel cancellation timelines first.

If a delay throws your plans off, you may need to book a last-minute alternative yourself, and refunds on the original booking will depend on the rate you chose and the hotel’s own cancellation policy.

Choosing refundable vs. non-refundable hotel rates

Non-refundable hotel rates may save money upfront, but they introduce significant financial risk if a missed train connection disrupts your schedule. Opting for flexible, refundable room rates protects your investment against transit delays and keeps your overland itinerary adaptable.

With accommodation and transport all wrapped up with package protection, booking your trip with Byway means we’ll handle any disruption or delays that impact your stay. 

Read the DIY slow travel blog series

This guide covers one part of planning a flight-free trip. Here's the rest of the series:

• Six steps to DIY slow travel

• Plot your route

• Plan your tickets

• Book your Interrail pass

• Book your tickets

• Set up your Interrail pass

Or, if you'd rather leave the logistics to the experts, book with Byway and we’ll handle everything for you. Each booking includes all transport, hotels and a personal trip guide, all wrapped up with ABTA-protection, free disruption replanning and in-trip support from our experts while you’re away. 

You can watch the video tutorial 'How to pick accommodation for a train trip' here, or sign up below for our full DIY video course delivered straight into your inbox.