While it might not exactly resemble an Agatha Christie novel, travelling across Europe by night train is an exceptionally convenient, efficient and budget-friendly way to explore the region. In this guide, we delve into the common assumptions about night trains to determine what is true and what is false, so you're prepared for your first overnight trip.

Here's the good, the rad and the snuggly of night trains

True or false? Night trains are the fastest way to get to your destination.

This one is true - mostly! Night trains may not match the speed of certain daytime high-speed services, but instead of travelling all day and then heading directly to the hotel to sleep when you arrive at your destination, you can optimise your itinerary by catching up on some zzz's while you travel. Then, when your train arrives at its final stop, you'll be right in the city centre, allowing you to simply leave the station and immediately start exploring the sights. If this isn't your final stop, you can make your next connection without missing a beat. The best part? You'll wake up fresh-faced and well-rested so that you can enjoy your day.

True or false? Night trains are the cheapest way to travel.

True, but with a caveat. Here's what you need to know. Your ticket not only covers your travel expenses but also includes the cost of your accommodation for the night. So take the money you would have spent on a hotel and add another leg onto your trip or splurge at your next destination. 

Now for the caveat. Ticket prices can vary greatly; for example, some fares on the same train may cost as little as €29, while others could go up to €600, depending on the type of seat or sleeper you book. The cheapest tickets aboard a night train are found in the seating carriage. Just as the name suggests, don't expect this fare to offer a lot of bells and whistles, but do expect it to maximise your budget. The pricier accomodations are in the sleeping carriages, which include the more budget-friendly option of a couchette, and the premium option of a sleeper compartment. Keep in mind that the names for these accommodations can vary depending on the specific train you are traveling on.

True or false? Travelling by night train is an elevated, premium experience.

Again, it all depends on whether you opt for a seat, a couchette or a sleeper. The most basic option is the seating carriage, which offers an experience not dissimilar to flying. You will have a comfortable seat that typically reclines and is best for those who don't mind a simpler sleeping experience.

For more space and enhanced amenities, consider choosing a couchette or sleeper in a sleeping carriage. The more affordable of the two options is the couchette, which is a 4- or 6-person compartment, complete with bed linen, towels and a shared toilet. These compartments are open to both men and women, so anticipate a hostel-like atmosphere. Additionally, the beds can be folded up during the day to create seating space.

Sleepers, on the other hand, are the costliest option as come with the most privacy and amenities. These sleep compartments, designed for 1 to 4 passengers, frequently feature a private bathroom, bed-making services, as well as linens and towels. This is certainly the most comfortable option aboard night trains, but depending on the route and season, it can be significantly more expensive than other tickets. But we do recommend comparing; that is not a steadfast rule. And remember that different providers offer different amenities. 

True or false? There aren't night train options for all budgets.

False! Whether you're on a business trip or embarking on a post-graduation adventure across Europe, there is an option for you. Looking to save some money? Opt for a basic seat without any frills. Want to indulge in privacy and luxury? Book a private compartment with bed-making service, a welcome bag with travel goodies, clean linens and a private bathroom with a sink and shower to boot. Depending on the class of travel purchased, you may receive dinner and a continental breakfast at no extra cost. While not all trains offer full-service restaurant options, some do have dining cars or offer the opportunity to purchase refreshments throughout your journey.

True or false? Travelling by night train is the most sustainable way to travel.

This is a resounding true! Cars and planes cause 85% of the EU greenhouse gas emissions generated by transportation. Train travel? Just 0.4%! When you travel by night train, you're making the greener choice, and the environment thanks you for it by showcasing stunning landscapes along your journey. Taking care of the environment while you're sleeping? That's the dream!

True or false? Travelling by night train is an unforgettable travel experience.

True! When travelling on a night train, your vacation doesn't start when you arrive at your destination; it begins the moment you step aboard. Enjoy Europe's most breathtaking views right from the comfort of your seat – erm, bed. Not only will you get to take in the glow of iconic cities and landmarks, but you'll also discover charming towns that you might never have heard of, let alone visited if it weren't for your overnight adventure.

Night train operators and booking your next trip

Choosing the best night train route and operator depends on your preferences, whether it's the destinations offered, route schedules, accommodation choices or pricing. Continue reading for some of the top operators and their most popular routes:

Night trains across Europe:  

ÖBB Nightjet 

Operated by Austria’s national rail operator ÖBB, Nightjet allows you to 'jet' off to countries, including Austria, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Poland, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, the Czech Republic and Belgium.

Popular routes:

• Vienna to Zurich
• Brussels to Vienna
• Zurich to Hamburg
• Vienna to Venice

EuroNight

EuroNight is run by a network of rail operators that seamlessly coordinate overnight routes across Western, Central, and Eastern Europe.

Popular routes:

• Berlin to Budapest
• Prague to Zurich
• Munich to Zagreb
• Zürich to Ljubljana

Other night train operators

Night trains in France: SNCF Intercités de Nuit 

The national railway operator of France, SNCF, runs domestic overnight routes to and from Paris. Passengers can hop aboard in the City of Light and wake up by the Mediterranean or even in the Alps.

• Popular routes: Paris to Toulouse, Nice, Rodez, Briançon

Night trains in Italy: Trenitalia Intercity Notte

Trenitalia runs services across which country? Yup, it's Italy - you're good. Book your overnight travel between Rome, Milan, Venice and other unmissable destinations for all Italy fans out there.

Popular routes:

• Lecce to Milan
• Palermo to Rome
• Turin to Naples
• Rome to Trieste

Practical overnight travel tips from pro travelers

• All passengers on sleeper trains must have a seat reservation. This includes Eurail and Interrail Passholders, although Passholders do receive discounts when booking their Passholder fares. 
• Certain night trains cross international borders, so have your visa, passport and any other necessary travel documents to navigate any border crossings with ease.
• Bring pen and paper to write postcards to loved ones back home. Then mail them from your next destination.
• If you arrive directly to a city center and want to set off on sightseeing right away, look for lockers in the station so you can leave your belongings and walk around baggage-free.
• If you are on a tight budget, bring your own meal and snacks on board.

What's next for night train travel?

Answer: more Europe night train routes – meaning more adventures to come! Here are some we are super excited about:

• Paris to Berlin: after a 9-year hiatus, the band is back together and they’re going on tour between two of Europe’s most popular destinations.    

But that’s just the start of it. Other routes in the works include:

• More service from Amsterdam to Austria (ideal for ski season)
• Munich to Warsaw (passing through Salzburg, Vienna, and Krakow)
• And more!

Your night train adventure awaits with Rail Europe!

At Rail Europe, we are proud to help power your day and night journeys across Europe. Use our platform to easily book your next getaway, be it a one-way Eurostar trip from London to Paris or a night train that border hops while you get some shut eye. 

Go start building out your dream night train itinerary. We’re sure that whatever route you take, you’ll wake up on the right side of the bed.

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