Traveling through Europe by train is one of the best ways to explore the continent. Thanks to the Eurail Pass, train travel has become an iconic and convenient option for many. Recently, affordable buses like Flixbus have gained popularity, offering budget-friendly alternatives for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.
However, those who’ve experienced long overnight bus rides know that they quickly lose their charm. While they are cheap, you sacrifice a good night’s sleep, which can really affect your next day’s plans.
That’s where night trains come in. They’re not always cheaper than buses, but they’re much more comfortable, and they help you save on accommodation costs since your train ticket doubles as both transportation and a place to sleep. Plus, night trains are a great way to make the most of your time by traveling while you sleep, so you can enjoy more of your destination without wasting a day on travel.
With the growing environmental concerns around travel, night trains are also a more eco-friendly option compared to short-haul flights. Many European countries are investing in more train routes, including sleeper trains, as part of efforts to encourage people to choose trains over planes.
In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know about night trains in Europe so you can travel comfortably, save money, and make the most of your time!
Types of Sleeping Compartments
When it comes to booking a night train, you have several options, depending on how comfortable you want to be. The cheapest (and least comfortable) option is to book a regular first or second-class ticket and simply sit in a seat. If you want more comfort, you can book a bed for the night. Night trains generally offer two types of sleeping compartments:
Couchettes
These are essentially train dorm rooms, with 3-6 bunk beds stacked 2-3 high. It’s a no-frills option where you get a bed, but you’ll be sharing the compartment with others. The number of beds can vary by train and country, with fewer beds usually meaning a higher price. Keep in mind, shared compartments are not separated by gender.
Private Cabins
If you want more privacy, a private cabin might be a better choice. These cabins usually have one or two beds, so if you’re traveling with a partner, you can share the space. Some cabins even offer private bathrooms, complete with a shower and toilet. Private cabins tend to be more spacious, and they’re a great option if you prefer more room or need to store larger luggage.
When it comes to luggage storage, you’ll find space under the bed, on a luggage rack, or sometimes even on your bed itself. If you’re traveling light with just a backpack and day bag, shared compartments will work just fine. But if you have a large suitcase, you might want to consider booking a private cabin for more space.
Popular Night Train Routes in Europe
Night trains are available across much of Europe, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular routes:
- EuroNight (Czech Republic-Poland)
- EuroNight Ister (Romania-Hungary)
- EuroNight Kálmán Imre (Austria–Germany–Switzerland–Hungary)
- EuroNight Lisinski (Austria-Croatia-Germany-Slovenia)
- Berlin Night Express (Germany-Sweden)
- Hellas Express (Serbia-Greece)
- Snälltåget (Sweden)
- ÖBB Nightjet (Austria-Italy-Germany-Switzerland)
- Intercités de Nuit (France)
- Caledonian Sleeper (England-Scotland)
As you can see, night trains run across most of Europe, making it easy to plan your trip and cover a lot of ground while you sleep.
Ticket Prices
Ticket prices for night trains vary based on factors like the distance, time of year, and whether you have a Eurail Pass. With a Eurail Pass, you can expect to pay around 13 EUR per person for a sleeper bed, with prices going up to over 100 EUR on certain routes. Without a Eurail Pass, tickets generally start around 50 EUR for a one-way journey.
Reservations
Reservations are required for all night trains, even if you have a Eurail Pass. It’s a good idea to book your seat a few days in advance, especially during busy times like the summer. You can reserve tickets up to six months in advance, which is recommended for popular routes or during high-demand seasons.
On the Train
Night trains typically depart after 7pm and arrive between 6-10am the next morning, depending on the route. Your compartment may not be set up with beds when you board, so you’ll likely need to sit upright until bedtime. The train attendant will come around later to convert the seats into beds.
Your tickets and rail passes will be checked soon after boarding. If you’re traveling within the Schengen Zone, you won’t need to worry about passport checks, but if you’re crossing borders outside of the Schengen Zone, be prepared for possible passport checks during the night. Some trains even hold your passport for you and return it in the morning.
While some night trains offer meals or have a dining car, it’s not the norm. To be on the safe side, bring your own food and drinks for the journey.
Safety Tips
Night trains in Europe are generally safe, but it’s always a good idea to take a few precautions. If you’re in a shared compartment, keep your valuables within reach and out of sight. You can secure your backpack to your bed with a lock or carabiner for extra security. If you’re sitting up in a main compartment, you can wrap your backpack strap around your leg to prevent anyone from taking it while you sleep.
While theft is rare, taking these simple precautions will help you feel secure during the journey.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a comfortable, affordable, and environmentally-friendly way to travel around Europe, be sure to consider night trains. They’re a great alternative to buses, offer more comfort than flying, and save you a night of accommodation. While the quality of the trains varies by country, riding a night train is a unique experience that’s well worth having on your European adventure. Don’t miss out!
