Rail travel is a wonderful means of transportation and one used by Europeans as well as tourists. Trains in Europe go everywhere and are always on time. You can purchase passes in advance for the days you need or just purchase tickets from one city to the next. Tourists often fear that language will be a problem. This is generally not the case.
Many people working in hotels, restaurants and public areas speak some English.
Most young adults have been taught English in school. Only in remote areas might you encounter a population of non-English speaking people. You will have to convert U.S. dollars to the local currency. Money exchange is not difficult and you will quickly catch on. It can be done at the airport upon arrival, at most hotels, and at local banks.