In recent years, Europe has seen a resurgence in night train travel as governments and private operators invest heavily in expanding overnight rail networks. This revival is driven by growing environmental concerns and a desire to offer travelers more sustainable alternatives to short-haul flights. The European Union has been a key supporter of these initiatives, funding infrastructure upgrades and promoting cross-border cooperation to make night trains a viable option for both domestic and international journeys.
One of the most significant developments is the expansion of the European Sleeper, a cooperative venture between Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany. The service, which launched in 2023, connects Brussels, Amsterdam, and Berlin, with plans to extend further east to Prague and Warsaw by 2025. The train offers comfortable sleeping compartments, couchettes, and seated options, catering to different budgets. Passengers can board in the evening and wake up in a new city, avoiding the hassle of airport security and reducing their carbon footprint.
Austria’s state-owned railway company, ÖBB, has also been a pioneer in night train travel with its Nightjet services. Recently, ÖBB announced new routes connecting Vienna to Paris and Zurich to Rome, filling critical gaps in the European night train network. These additions make it easier for travelers to move between major cities without relying on air travel. The Nightjet trains feature modern amenities, including private showers, Wi-Fi, and flexible seating arrangements, ensuring a comfortable journey.
France has joined the movement with its own overnight train revival. After years of declining services, the French government has reintroduced night routes from Paris to Nice, Tarbes, and Lourdes. These trains are particularly popular with tourists heading to the French Riviera or the Pyrenees, as they provide a scenic and relaxing way to travel. The French national railway company, SNCF, has also partnered with neighboring countries to launch international night trains, including a Paris-to-Berlin route set to debut in late 2024.
Despite the progress, challenges remain. Coordinating schedules across different countries’ rail systems is complex, and ticket pricing can sometimes be higher than budget airline fares, deterring cost-conscious travelers. However, advocates argue that the environmental benefits and the unique experience of night train travel justify the investment. The EU’s Green Deal, which aims to make Europe carbon-neutral by 2050, includes substantial funding for rail infrastructure, signaling a long-term commitment to sustainable transport.
For travelers, the expansion of night trains offers a nostalgic yet forward-thinking way to explore Europe. The gentle rocking of the train, the camaraderie of shared compartments, and the thrill of waking up in a new destination evoke the golden age of rail travel while aligning with modern sustainability goals. As more routes come online and operators refine their services, night trains are poised to become a cornerstone of European travel in the coming decade.
