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What happens when the train gets cancelled?

I'm currently stuck during my travel because the train I wanted to take keeps getting delayed and will probably be cancelled due to weather. It is the last/only connection to my destination today. 

I already have a seat reservation and activated my travel day for the trip today. What happens to them when the train gets completely cancelled? Will I get refunds for the reservation and a new travel day?

Also, how is the situation with interrail when I have to book a hotel for the night? or even two nights because the train for tomorrow is already full?

Sadly the info desk of the company (RENFE) here in Lyon is closed today, so I feel a bit lost. 

Best answer by rvdborgt

The railway company has to give you the choice between 3 options, as prescribed by EU legislation (this is valid for all instances where the expected delay at your destination is at least 6 minutes):

  1. If you don't want to travel anymore, get a full refund.
  2. If you want to continue you journey, travel with the earliest opportunity at no extra costs to you.
  3. Travel on a later date of your choice.

If option 2 means you are stranded overnight, then they also have to organise overnight accommodation.

Force majeure / Act of God (such as severe weather) is not a reason they can refuse this.

Do not ask for any refund if you want to continue this journey despite the delays. If you ask for a refund, then the operator doesn't have any obligations anymore.

You can try calling Renfe at +34 91 232 03 20.

Interrail customer support is usually quick to give an extra travel day in such a situation. That is theoretically not needed, since it's the operator's job to give you the needed extra tickets and reservations, but it does make life easier.

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    Railmaster
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    • rvdborgt
    • Railmaster
    • Answer
    • October 4, 2026

    The railway company has to give you the choice between 3 options, as prescribed by EU legislation (this is valid for all instances where the expected delay at your destination is at least 6 minutes):

    1. If you don't want to travel anymore, get a full refund.
    2. If you want to continue you journey, travel with the earliest opportunity at no extra costs to you.
    3. Travel on a later date of your choice.

    If option 2 means you are stranded overnight, then they also have to organise overnight accommodation.

    Force majeure / Act of God (such as severe weather) is not a reason they can refuse this.

    Do not ask for any refund if you want to continue this journey despite the delays. If you ask for a refund, then the operator doesn't have any obligations anymore.

    You can try calling Renfe at +34 91 232 03 20.

    Interrail customer support is usually quick to give an extra travel day in such a situation. That is theoretically not needed, since it's the operator's job to give you the needed extra tickets and reservations, but it does make life easier.

    Please ask questions in the community and not via a private message. That's the quickest way to get a response. I don't work for Eurail/Interrail.
      Eliot.B
      • Eliot.BCommunity Manager
      • Community Moderator
      • October 5, 2026

      Indeed, there is support in such scenarios!

      Naturally, disruptions as such can happen, and it can lead to delayed arrival / overnighting elsewhere unexpectedly.

      In addition to the useful points mentioned above, be sure to check Interrail's Delay Compensation policy.

      This is there to help Interrail travellers with such circumstances.

      You can also reach out to the Interrail team via live chat for direct support, and guidance on how to continue your travels. 

      They can look into alternative travel options and share information on filling out a Delay Compensation form, in case that's a suitable approach.

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