Can you ride on top of a train?

Is it better to sit on the top or bottom of a train?

The top… In winter. Right.

Is it better? No, no. Not really.

Maybe the bottom in summer, ok. Cooler down there? Hmm.

Standing… that’s it. Standing, swaying.

• Winter: Top floors hold onto the heat more. I think of my grandma’s attic, musty and warm even when it snowed outside in 2018.
• Summer: Basements. Always a little damp, a little cooler.

Standing, though. It’s… being there that matters.

• Like that time I missed my stop in 2022, just staring out the window.

Is it ride on the train or ride the train?

Ride the train. Simply. Sharply.

“On” implies being on, not actively riding. I’m on the train, yes. Riding it? No.

Think less “stagecoach”, more “transport”.

• Ride the train – Preferred. Direct. Efficient.
• On the train – Acceptable for location.
• My commute? Ride the train to 42nd.
• You are on the train to somewhere? Vague.
• Avoid “ride on the train”. Hear that, everyone?

My dad always took the 7 train. Never “rode on” it. It grates. Ugh.

Where is the best place to sit on a train ride?

The ideal train seat? A window seat, hands down. But it’s nuanced. Seriously.

Scenic Route Considerations: Sunlight is key. For a morning trip westbound across the US, for instance, the south-facing window offers the best light and view, avoiding harsh morning sun. Conversely, an eastbound trip in the afternoon – choose north. I learned this on a cross-country Amtrak trip in 2023.

Other Factors: Avoid seats near restrooms and galley areas – seriously disruptive. End-of-car seats can be surprisingly bumpy. My experience on a Eurostar in 2024 solidified this. Aisles are good if you need to move. But, less privacy and view. It’s all a trade off, really.

• Sun Exposure: Affects temperature and photo ops. Consider the time of day and direction of travel.
• Noise Levels: Proximity to restrooms and service areas impacts peace and quiet.
• View: Consider landscapes, cityscapes, and the direction of the sun. Prioritize this, really.
• Accessibility: Consider your needs: aisle seats are better for frequent bathroom breaks. If this matters, prioritise it above the view.

Choosing the perfect seat is personal. Like choosing the perfect coffee: there’s no single right answer.

My personal preference? A quiet window seat, away from crowds, ideally facing east in the morning for sunrise views. This is based on countless hours spent on trains across Europe and North America. I’m talking thousands of miles, mate.

Where is best to sit on a train?

The optimal train seat is subjective, obviously. Window seats offer scenic views but can be cramped. Aisle seats provide easy access but lack the view.

Best: For me, a window seat on the left side heading north is usually ideal. Why? The sun’s position changes throughout the day, but generally, that side offers better light for photos and prevents harsh glare on screens. This is based on my numerous trips on Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor line in 2023. Consider your journey’s specific direction.

Worst: Definitely avoid middle seats if you value personal space. Also, seats directly above the wheels are typically noisier. On my last trip, July 2023, I sat next to a particularly chatty passenger. Aisle seats near restrooms are usually less desirable.

Things to consider:

• Sunlight exposure. This varies with time of day and direction of travel.
• Proximity to restrooms. The perpetual smell and noise might bother you.
• Passenger flow. Aisle seats mean constant interruptions.

Philosophically speaking, the “best” seat is really the one that best suits your individual needs and priorities. It’s all about optimization, isn’t it? It’s like choosing your coffee blend. Some people prefer dark roasts, others lighter ones. Train seat selection is equally personal.

My friend, Sarah, swears by aisle seats for easy bathroom access, particularly on long journeys. I find that impractical, frankly.

Additional Factors:

• Legroom: Some carriages offer more legroom than others, even within the same class. Check the train layout beforehand.
• Scenery: For scenic routes, consider the direction of travel and potential views (mountains, coast, etc.). This is extremely route dependent. I’d avoid the window if going through some industrial area!
• Train type: Different train types (high-speed, regional, etc.) have varying seat configurations and comfort levels.