Sleeper trains in Europe are back in fashion. Fall asleep in one country and wake up in another, save a night's hotel, skip airport security, and travel with a much smaller carbon footprint than flying. Here is what to know about night trains in Europe, the best routes and operators, how to book, and what to pack.
Sleeper Trains 101
What is a sleeper train?
A sleeper train is an overnight train with places to lie down. Most offer three types of accommodation:
- Seats: The cheapest option, like a normal train seat that reclines a little.
- Couchettes: Shared compartments with four or six bunks, a pillow, and bedding. Some trains offer women-only couchettes.
- Sleepers: Private or shared cabins with one to three proper beds, a washbasin, and sometimes a private shower and toilet.
Why take a night train?
- You travel while you sleep and arrive in the city center, ready to explore.
- You save the cost of a hotel night.
- Generous luggage allowances and no liquid rules.
- Much lower emissions than flying.
- It is genuinely fun and a little romantic.
What's included?
Couchette and sleeper tickets usually include bedding and often a simple breakfast. Sleeper cabins on many routes come with a welcome drink, towels, and toiletries.
The Best Night Trains in Europe
ÖBB Nightjet
Austria's railway runs the biggest night train network in Europe, connecting cities such as Vienna, Munich, Innsbruck, Zurich, Hamburg, Berlin, Venice, and Rome. Newer trains have "mini cabins", capsule-style pods for solo travelers. Book on the Nightjet website.
European Sleeper
This Dutch-Belgian startup runs a night train linking Brussels, Amsterdam, Berlin, Dresden, and Prague, with seats, couchettes, and sleeper cabins.
Caledonian Sleeper
The Caledonian Sleeper runs from London Euston to Scotland six nights a week, splitting to serve Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness, and Fort William. Waking up as the train winds through the Highlands to Fort William is unforgettable.
Intercity Notte (Italy)
Trenitalia's night trains run the length of Italy, including from Rome and Milan to Sicily. The train is loaded onto a ferry to cross the Strait of Messina, one of the last train ferries in Europe.
Other night trains
Sweden's Snälltåget and SJ run trains to Berlin and to the Arctic north, Norway's night trains link Oslo with Bergen and Trondheim, and Spain, Romania, and Poland have domestic overnight routes too.
Luxury Sleeper Trains
- Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: The legendary art deco train between Paris and Venice, with fine dining and cabins restored from the 1920s.
- Belmond Royal Scotsman: Small, luxurious tours of the Scottish Highlands.
- La Dolce Vita Orient Express: A newer luxury train touring Italy.
These are once-in-a-lifetime experiences with prices to match.
How to Book a Sleeper Train in Europe
- Book direct with the operator, such as Nightjet, European Sleeper, Caledonian Sleeper, or Trenitalia, for the most cabin options.
- Book early. Sleepers and couchettes sell out, especially in summer and at weekends. Bookings often open three to six months ahead.
- Check for rail pass reservations. Interrail and Eurail pass holders can use many night trains with a reservation fee.
- Read the small print. Engineering works sometimes cause cancellations or bus replacements, so keep an eye on your emails.
What to Pack for a Night Train
- Earplugs and an eye mask.
- Comfortable clothes to sleep in, and slippers or flip-flops.
- A small bag with toiletries, a toothbrush, and medication.
- Water and snacks, because dining cars are rare.
- A power bank, as not every berth has a socket.
- Offline entertainment.
Safety Tips
- Lock your compartment door at night, using the security lock if there is one.
- Keep valuables in a small bag in your bed with you.
- Store your passport where you can reach it if there are border checks.
Stay Connected on the Train
Mobile coverage on night trains comes and goes, especially in mountains and tunnels, so download tickets and maps in advance. The egoViet Europe eSIM covers 33 countries, so your phone keeps working when you cross borders overnight. See the best European travel apps for booking trains.
Love train travel? See our list of the best train trips in Europe.
FAQs: Sleeper Trains in Europe
Are sleeper trains in Europe safe?
Yes. Lock your compartment, keep valuables close, and choose a women-only couchette or a private cabin if you prefer.
How much does a sleeper train in Europe cost?
Seats can cost less than €50, couchettes often around €50–100, and private sleeper cabins more. Prices rise closer to the date, so book early.
What is the best night train in Europe?
Popular favorites include Nightjet routes from Vienna and Munich to Italy, the Caledonian Sleeper to the Scottish Highlands, and European Sleeper from Brussels and Amsterdam to Berlin and Prague.
Can I use an Interrail or Eurail pass on night trains?
Yes, on most routes, but you need to buy a reservation for a seat, couchette, or sleeper.