Night Trains in Central Europe: The Resurgence of ÖBB Nightjet and European Sleeper

Sleeping While Traveling

Night trains have experienced a major European renaissance led by Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB Nightjet) and private operators like European Sleeper. Taking a sleeper train eliminates the cost of a hotel room while covering hundreds of kilometers without losing daytime sightseeing hours.

Compartment Types Explained

• Seating Carriage (Sitzwagen): The cheapest option (from €29 to €39). You sit upright in a 6-person compartment with strangers. Not recommended for genuine rest.
• Couchette (Liegewagen): The budget sweet spot. 4-berth or 6-berth compartments with flat bunk beds, clean sheets, blankets, and pillows. Includes a simple morning breakfast with coffee. Fares start from €49 to €69.
• Sleeper Cabin (Schlafwagen): Premium 1, 2, or 3-bed private cabins with real mattresses, duvets, washbasins (or private ensuite shower/toilet), and full breakfast. Fares start from €89 to €140.

Key Wave 1 Night Routes

• Berlin to Vienna / Budapest (ÖBB Nightjet)
• Prague to Zürich / Basel (ČD EuroNight)
• Munich to Ljubljana / Zagreb (ÖBB Nightjet)