The Resurgence of Night Trains Across Europe: A Modern Perspective

In recent years, night trains have experienced a notable revival throughout Europe, captivating travelers, governments, and railway companies alike. This renewed interest is driven by the appeal of a sustainable, cost-effective, and comfortable mode of transportation that allows passengers to traverse long distances while sleeping peacefully. As John Walton from Lonely Planet explores, this trend signifies a shift back to a classic travel experience, blending nostalgia with contemporary innovation.

Revitalizing a Romantic Travel Tradition

The concept of night trains often evokes images of romance and adventure-think of the legendary Orient Express or the vast Trans-Siberian route. Historically, these journeys symbolized elegance and mystery, but with the rise of high-speed rail and budget airlines, investments in modern night train services dwindled. Today, however, the landscape is changing. European countries are reopening old routes and launching new cross-border services, emphasizing comfort, efficiency, and environmental sustainability. These overnight routes connect city centers directly, enabling travelers to arrive rested and ready to explore.

Current Developments and Future Plans

France has recently embarked on a revival of its night train network as part of its broader railway modernization efforts. The French government’s financial support aims to restore routes from Paris to destinations like Nice and Tarbes by 2022, providing travelers with alternative options to the high-speed TGV network. Similarly, Sweden is investing in overnight services from Stockholm to Hamburg and Malmö to Brussels, with plans to commence operations as early as 2022. These routes facilitate seamless connections to existing daytime high-speed networks and other night train services, broadening travel possibilities across Europe.

However, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has introduced uncertainties into the schedule and operation of night trains. While most domestic routes remain active, many international services are temporarily suspended or operating on altered schedules. For instance, the Paris-Milan-Verona-Venice Thello night train and Russian trains passing through Europe into France are currently halted. Conversely, Austria’s Nightjet services, including routes between Germany and Switzerland, are operational, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in the current climate.

Key Night Train Routes in Europe

European Cross-Border Night Routes: Austria and Czech Republic

Strategically situated in central Europe, Austrian Railways’ (ÖBB) Nightjet network primarily serves routes originating from Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, extending to destinations such as Brussels, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, Berlin, Warsaw, Budapest, Zagreb, Rijeka, Rome, Pisa, Venice, Zurich, Milan, and Frankfurt. Notably, there’s even a service connecting Frankfurt Airport directly to the Nightjet network, offering convenient access for international travelers.

Additionally, routes from Zurich and southwestern Germany connect to Hamburg and Berlin, enabling travelers to journey overnight from Brussels to Berlin, spend a day exploring, then continue to Vienna or even further south to Rome. Czech Railways operates night trains from Prague to Zurich, Humené, Budapest, and, in partnership with Polish Railways, to Krakow and Warsaw. These routes exemplify the extensive network facilitating efficient cross-border travel.

To the east, Russian Railways maintains a robust night train service reaching as far west as Paris (via Germany, Poland, and Belarus) and Nice (through Italy, Austria, Czech Republic, Poland, and Belarus). These routes connect travelers to the broader European rail network, offering a comprehensive and interconnected travel experience.

Domestic and Regional Night Train Options

Within individual countries, night trains serve vital regional and national routes. France’s Intercité de Nuit operates four key services, primarily connecting Paris to regions less accessible by high-speed trains, such as Briançon, Latour-de-Carol, Rodez, and Toulouse. While these trains do not typically feature luxury sleeper options, they provide essential connectivity for travelers seeking affordable overnight journeys.

Italy boasts a dense network of night trains spanning from the north to the south, including Sicily. These services often complement or substitute high-speed trains like Frecciarossa and Frecciargento, offering a flexible travel alternative. In the United Kingdom, two main routes serve overnight travel: one from London to Cornwall and another from London to various destinations in Scotland, including stops in between. The early morning arrival at Carlisle makes it convenient for travelers heading to the Lake District or other northern regions.

Spain and Portugal are linked by Renfe’s Trenhotel, which connects Lisbon with Madrid and extends to Hendaye near the French border. From there, travelers can transfer to the TGV network, facilitating seamless international journeys across the Iberian Peninsula and into France.

Comfort and Accommodation Options on European Night Trains

Most European night trains offer a range of sleeping arrangements to suit different preferences and budgets. The most economical option is the couchette, which typically features four to six bunks in shared compartments. These are usually provided with basic bedding-sheets and pillows-that passengers arrange themselves. While couchettes are generally mixed-gender, some services offer women-only compartments for added comfort and security.

For a more comfortable experience, travelers can opt for sleeper cabins, which usually accommodate four passengers with beds already made up, often including a small sink and sometimes a water tap. These cabins provide greater privacy and space, making overnight journeys more restful. Some trains also feature standard seating cars, which are less expensive but less ideal for sleeping unless you’re comfortable resting in a seat.

Luxury options are available on select routes, offering private compartments with one to three beds, often equipped with en-suite showers and toilets. Shared facilities, such as washrooms and showers, are common in standard cabins, with towels typically provided. Many trains also include shower facilities to help travelers freshen up before arriving at their destination.

Booking a private compartment is possible for those seeking solitude, extra space, or to maintain social distancing-an increasingly relevant consideration in the current health climate. Regardless of the choice, passengers can relax, enjoy the passing scenery, and arrive at their destination refreshed.

Additional Resources and Inspiration

• Exploring Europe’s post-pandemic recovery through new ultra-fast train networks
• Is traveling by sleeper train in Europe currently safe? Insights and updates
• The rise of Croatia’s overnight train routes: a popular choice for travelers
• Inside the UK’s longest sleeper train journey: an adventure in comfort and nostalgia