10 questions about the night train

Night train routes are expanding across Europe and are attracting more and more travelers. And for good reason, as night trains offer many advantages. Whether you want to opt for the most eco-friendly mode of transport, save money on your journey, or simply try out a unique travel experience, we’re answering all the questions you might have about night trains!

1. Is traveling by night train safe?

This is one of the first questions travelers ask when considering taking a night train for the first time, and it’s completely natural. But rest assured: traveling by night train in Europe is generally very safe. Trains are equipped with security systems, such as video surveillance, and the presence of conductors and staff means you can feel confident that someone will always be around to keep an eye on your wellbeing.

Additionally, you can book private compartments which are equipped with locks - guaranteeing you a more peaceful night, as you'll be able to sleep completely soundly!

2. What are the advantages of night trains?

Switching your regular train ticket for a night train offers several advantages:

• Experience a unique journey. Imagine this… you fall asleep in Paris and wake up in Nice, Vienna, or even Berlin! Traveling by night train turns the journey into a true experience and an unforgettable memory.
• Save money. If you’re on a tight budget, the night train can be a good option. You can save money compared to the cost of a flight or a daytime high-speed train, and most importantly, you will save on a night’s accommodation!
• Maximize travel time. You will save time by departing in the evening and waking up at your destination. This way, you don’t 'waste' your day in transit — it can be fully dedicated to exploring your destination.

The night train also offers another significant advantage which is inherent to this mode of transport:

• Protect the environment. The transport choices you make have a significant impact on the carbon footprint of tourism. Choosing the train will drastically reduce your personal impact.

3. How much do night train journeys cost?

The price of a night train will depend on which country you're traveling in, and your preferred dates. For the sake of ease, let's look at the night trains that are operated in France by SNCF. The cost of these will depend on which class you choose:

• Seat from €19: This is the cheapest option. The seats are reclining and have a footrest and an adjustable headrest.
• Second-class couchettes from €29: These are shared sleeper compartments with 6 beds per compartment. The couchettes come with additional amenities, such as a duvet, pillow, earplugs, etc.
• First-class couchettes from €39: These are shared sleeper compartments with 4 beds per compartment. The amenities in first class are the same as in second class.
• Private spaces from €150: You can book an entire compartment in first or second class. Ideal for traveling with family or friends!

If you’re traveling with a child under 4, they can travel for free in the same couchette as you. To get an additional couchette for them, you can buy a 'bambin' ticket for €9, specifying a seat next to your reserved places.

Obviously these prices are just a guide for France, but every country and train operator will have their own pricing structures. Before you travel, check out the relevant ticketing website to get an accurate price for your dates and location.

4. What services are offered on night trains?

Facilities and services will depend on which country you’re traveling in, but most train companies offer a range of services on their night trains to provide you with the most comfortable experience possible. For example, you might receive:

• A night kit for the journey. If you're traveling in a sleeper compartment, you'll probably receive a set of amenities for added comfort such as a duvet, pillow, eye mask, earplugs, toothpaste, tissues, refreshing wipes and a bottle of water.
• Electrical outlets. In first class, sleeper compartments often have individual outlets to charge your electronic devices overnight. This may also be true for second-class sleeper compartments which have been renovated, but it's not guaranteed. Bear in mind that some older carriages may only offer outlets in the corridors.
• WiFi. Night trains are often equipped with WiFi, which usually works very well.
• Catering services. Night trains often have a bar car, depending on the company you are traveling with.
• Places for non-dismantled bikes. Embarking on a "slow tourism" adventure with your bike? No problem! For an additional fee, you can generally reserve a spot for your bike when you buy your ticket.
• A personalized wake-up service. Worried about not hearing your alarm and missing your stop? If you're traveling in a sleeper compartment, you can ask the staff to wake you up 30 minutes before your stop to make sure you don’t miss it.

5. Are the sleeper compartments mixed?

For the majority of night trains, the sleeper compartments are indeed mixed. That being said, if you prefer more privacy, it’s often possible to book a private compartment or, for women, choose a 'Women Only' compartment.

6. Can you shower on a night train?

It depends on where you’re going! For example, some rooms on The Caledonian Sleeper (which runs between London and Scotland) offer ensuite facilities, whereas night trains in France don’t have showers. Regardless of which country you’re traveling in, you’re bound to have access to a washroom area to freshen up, brush your teeth, etc.

Likewise, the class of travel you opt for may determine what facilities you have access to. If you're traveling in first class, you will often have access to a shower area upon arrival at several train stations. Towels and shower products are provided in these comfortable spaces. You may also be able to enjoy a waiting area with seats, electrical outlets, and a tea and coffee service… The perfect way to jump straight into your sightseeing day.

7. Are night trains comfortable?

Comfort on night trains will, of course, depend on your budget and the type of seat or sleeper you choose.

For the sleeper options, a night kit is often provided. But for even more comfort, be sure to bring anything you might need for a peaceful night. For example, you might want to bring your own earplugs (which may be more suitable for you, especially if you're a light sleeper). Additionally, even though a duvet might be provided, we’d suggest bringing warm clothing for the night if you tend to feel cold.

8. How can you book a ticket for a night train?

Just as for daytime tickets, reservation is mandatory for all night trains in Europe. To book your night train, simply go to the company website.

In general, it is always a good idea to book through the railway company's website rather than a booking platform, such as comparison websites. You’ll receive better customer service in case of delays, cancellations or any other unforeseen circumstances.

For example, from Paris, night trains connect to several cities in Germany and Austria thanks to the Nightjet OBB service.

9. Do you have to share sleeping space with strangers?

On night trains, many sleeper compartments are indeed shared (4 or 6 beds depending on the class chosen), but it is entirely possible to book a private compartment. Whether you're traveling alone, with family, or with friends, you'll enjoy a more intimate and comfortable travel experience. However, sleeper compartments in private cabins are always more expensive than when the cabin is shared.

10. Which routes are served by night trains?

It depends on where you’d like to travel, but the good news is that many countries offer great night train options (and you can even travel from one country to another!)

From Amsterdam, you could travel to Vienna, Innsbruck, Basel, Zurich or Munich. From Germany you could travel by night train to various ski resorts. From London you can reach Penzance in Cornwall, or the Scottish Highlands or Lowlands. From Paris, the Nightjet network by ÖBB allows you to reach many European destinations in Germany and Austria: Vienna, Berlin, Munich, Salzburg, and many more. Unfortunately, some European routes from Paris are now discontinued, such as the Paris – Venice or Paris – Madrid lines. That said, many night trains are still running across Europe.

For larger countries such as France, the good news is that many top destinations are also accessible by night train from Paris. Wake up by the Mediterranean, in the heart of the Pyrenees or the Alps, or in sunny cities like Toulouse and Hendaye… You’ll be spoilt for choice! Enjoy a night journey to arrive well-rested at your destination and start your vacation on the right foot.