The Top European Sleeper Trains

As the train departs, you gradually drift off into a peaceful sleep. Hours later, you awaken in a new country, with fresh, exciting landscapes rushing past your window.

Unlike the stressful experience of a budget flight, you arrive feeling rested and ready to explore a new destination.

Step aboard the sleeper train service.

Once a staple of international travel, sleeper trains were the preferred choice for travelers crossing Europe in the mid to late 20th century.

In recent years, the rise of affordable air travel has led to a significant decline in overnight trains ferrying passengers across countries.

However, times are shifting – sleeper train journeys are now associated with romance and adventure, and in today’s travel world, collecting unique experiences is a prized form of currency.

Additionally, sleeper trains are much more eco-friendly – their carbon footprints are significantly lower compared to air travel.

“Sleeper trains have always carried a certain allure,” says Mark Smith, a train travel expert and founder of the popular website The Man in Seat 61. “Although, sometimes that allure is romanticized – even the mystique of the Orient Express has been exaggerated beyond its true nature.”

“But in the end, romance isn’t something you can buy; it’s something that unfolds naturally. It’s all about perspective, as they say.”

Curious? Here are some sleeper train services you can board to explore Europe in comfort.

Caledonian Sleeper – London, England to Fort William, Scotland

It’s just a short hour-long flight from London to Scotland’s major cities, including the vibrant Glasgow and the picturesque Edinburgh.

Why go through the hassle of airport security at Heathrow when you can drift off in the heart of London and wake up on Rannoch Moor, surrounded by breathtaking Scottish vistas?

“You’ll wake up traveling at 30 miles per hour along a remote single track in the West Highlands, with deer leaping away from the train,” explains Smith.

The Man in Seat 61 names the Caledonian Sleeper as his top pick, highlighting the spectacular scenery and the added luxury of a lounge car.

Every night, two trains depart London, splitting along different routes to destinations like Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Aberdeen, Fort William, Perth, and Aviemore.

The Inverness service also stops at Gleneagles, famous for its golf and whisky, while the Fort William route takes you to Corrour, known as the UK’s most isolated station.

A journey from London to Fort William takes just under 8 hours.

The Caledonian Sleeper is undergoing a major refurbishment, with new trains to replace the existing 1980s-era carriages by the summer of 2019.

The new trains will feature Caledonian Double Rooms, complete with en-suite facilities, a shower, toilet, and a double bed.

The Club Rooms are a step below, offering en-suite toilets and showers.

Guests in the Club Room or Caledonian Double categories enjoy exclusive access to the club car.

In addition, there are classic rooms and comfort seats available.

Trenhotel Lusitania – a sleeper service running from Madrid, Spain to Lisbon, Portugal.

Travel between two Mediterranean gems aboard Renfe’s Trenhotel Lusitania, a night train connecting Madrid, Spain to Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital.

Onboard, unwind with a glass of wine and hot meals served from the bar/café.

First Class sleeper cabins are available for private bookings, so you can enjoy a whole room to yourself. For an extra touch of luxury, opt for Grand Class, which includes an en-suite, free newspapers, and access to the club lounge.

A key perk of sleeper trains is the convenience of arriving right in the heart of the city, and in this case, at Lisbon’s stunning Santa Apolonia Station.

As Smith points out, the smartest travelers opt for sleeper trains over budget flights. While the journey may take a bit longer and could cost more, it’s ultimately a wiser way to spend your time.

“A one-hour flight can easily end up taking four hours when you factor in airport time, check-ins, and security. With a sleeper train, you immediately save those precious four daytime hours,” explains the Man in Seat 61.

Thello sleeper train – travel from Paris, France to Rome, Italy.

Depart from Paris Gare de Lyon in the evening, cruise through the scenic Italian countryside, stop in stylish Milan, and wake up to the enchanting sights of gondolas and canals in Venice.

On this Thello service, there are no regular seats – passengers are accommodated in either sleeping berths or couchettes that sleep four to six people.

For those seeking extra privacy, there’s a premium cabin option, complete with access to a private shower.

The service includes a restaurant car with waiter service, though, as the Man in Seat 61 notes, it's not quite at the level of the Orient Express.

Sometimes, says Smith, it's a good idea to bring your own snacks along for the ride.

"It's far more enjoyable to bring a bottle of your favorite drink and have a midnight snack on board," Smith suggests.

Another of Smith's tips is to find a great restaurant close to your departure station.

"Finding a nice place to eat can make the wait for your late-night train departure much more pleasant and turn that waiting time into an enjoyable part of the journey," he advises.

Tolstoy – from Helsinki, Finland to Moscow, Russia

The Tolstoy service by Russian Railways connects Helsinki to Moscow, offering a range of sleepers, from second-class four-berth compartments to luxurious business-class suites with en suite bathrooms.

The restaurant car boasts a lavish setting with deep red curtains and plush seating, adding to the overall experience.

For an extra touch of flair, the train is named after Leo Tolstoy, Russia's most renowned author.

The journey takes approximately 15 hours to travel across Northern Europe.

French intercités de nuit – from Paris, France to the South of France

You can still catch a train from Paris's dazzling lights to the South of France, though the route has been significantly reduced in recent years.

At present, you can board the French intercités de nuit train to destinations like Toulouse and the scenic Latour de Carol. The train also stops at Rodez and Briancon in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region.

There are options for budget-friendly reclining seats or couchette-style sleeping arrangements.

For Smith, his first sleeper train experience occurred during a high school French exchange. Although the students were in couchettes, he couldn't resist peeking into the sleeping cars:

“I thought, 'This is the way I want to travel from now on,'” Smith recalls. “So, when I did my first Interrail trip a few years later, I splurged for a real bed in the sleeper – and I haven’t looked back since.”

Onboard, you'll find a sleeping bag instead of a blanket, along with a bottle of water, earplugs, and tissues – everything you need for a restful night.

Russian Railways – Moscow, Russia to Nice, France

While some journeys on this list are quick, the Russian Railways train covers an impressive 2,164 miles across Europe, running from Paris to Moscow.

It ranks among the longest passenger trains in Europe, with stops in Berlin, Germany, and Warsaw, Poland.

The train is a modern tribute to the legendary Nord Express, once famous for its Art Deco posters. This iconic service ran until World War II, traveling through Eastern Europe before reaching Russia.

By sleeper train standards, the cars are quite contemporary and well-equipped.

Given the length of this journey, it's no surprise there's a restaurant car – and for a bit of fun, it changes midway. The first half features a Polish restaurant, while a Russian dining car joins once the train reaches Brest.

For those looking to indulge, you can opt for a VIP First Class deluxe sleeper, which Smith jokingly suggests might be ideal for Russian oligarchs. This luxurious cabin comes with an en suite shower and toilet, a flat-screen TV, and even a hot breakfast.

Santa Claus Express – Helsinki, Finland to Rovaniemi, Finland

A train named the Santa Claus Express is bound to promise an unforgettable journey.

This double-decker train heads north into a snowy wonderland, traveling through Scandinavia from Helsinki to Lapland in under 15 hours.

Onboard, you'll find a restaurant car, and you can choose from a range of accommodations, including an economy seat, a double sleeper, a single sleeper, or a private sleeper with a bathroom.

Riding through snow-covered landscapes is an unforgettable experience, and the double-decker carriages offer stunning views – you may even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

Austrian Nightjet sleeper trains – Connecting Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy

Austrian Railways (ÖBB) sleeper trains – known as Nightjet – travel through Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy.

Given the extensive coverage, the Nightjet logo is one of the most common sights at train stations across continental Europe.

According to Smith, this is mainly due to the Austrian rail service making sleeper trains a financially viable option.

“The Austrians have figured out how to run sleeper trains profitably, and they have the political will to make it happen,” he says.

The expert also points out that sleeper trains can only thrive when track access fees are kept reasonable.

ÖBB has also taken over abandoned routes and now runs services, like the sleeper train from Berlin to Zurich, that don't even begin in Austria.

The success of Austrian Nightjet gives Smith hope for the future of sleeper trains:

“The real question is whether ÖBB can extend their reach even further, possibly reviving sleeper routes outside of Austria’s borders?”

On Nightjet, choose between a sleeping car or a couchette. The sleeping cars come with a washbasin, and if you opt for the deluxe version, you'll have your own en suite.

This service connects Vienna, Austria to Venice, Italy, with additional routes including Berlin to Basel and Zurich in Switzerland.

Sofia-Istanbul Express – Sofia, Bulgaria to Istanbul, Turkey

The Sofia-Istanbul Express whisks passengers from Bulgaria’s vibrant capital to the historic city of Istanbul.

The journey takes around 10 hours, but there are no catering services on board, so it’s wise to bring your own food and drinks.

It’s important to note that your sleep will be interrupted when you disembark at the Turkish border for passport control.

Currently, the train terminates at Halkali, located a bit outside Istanbul, and passengers must take a bus for the final stretch of the journey.

EuroNight Chopin – Prague, Czech Republic to Krakow, Poland

The Euronight Chopin sleeper service connects Prague, Czech Republic to Krakow, Poland.

Choose between four- or six-person couchettes, or opt for a deluxe hotel-style sleeping car, complete with an en suite, slippers, and a breakfast served to you.

There’s also a bistro car offering snacks and draft beer on tap.

Meanwhile, the EuroNight Lisinski service travels from Austria through Croatia to Slovenia in under nine hours, while EuroNight Kálmán Imre takes you from Munich, Germany or Zurich, Switzerland to Budapest, Hungary, with stops in Vienna and Salzburg.

EuroNight Ister travels from Budapest to Bucharest in about 17 hours, with a stop in Brasov, home to Bran Castle, also known as Dracula's Castle.

Dovrebanen – A scenic route from Oslo to Trondheim, Norway.

Norway’s natural beauty is breathtaking, and experiencing it from the comfort of a train is a must. This overnight journey winds through the stunning Gudbrandsdalen valley and the majestic Dovrefjell mountain range.

The trip lasts seven hours and ends in the historic city of Trondheim.

You can choose between a regular seat or a private compartment for a more comfortable ride.

The Night Riviera – An overnight journey from London to Penzance in Cornwall.

If you’ve seen images of Cornwall’s dramatic cliffs and expansive beaches, it won’t take much to convince you to board the Night Riviera. Fall asleep in the heart of London and wake up to the invigorating sea breeze.

Choose from a seat, which Great Western Railways describes as ‘airline-style,’ share a compartment, or indulge in a private cabin for yourself.

The lounge car remains open throughout the night, perfect for late-night snacks, and passengers can also access a station lounge at London Paddington before departure.

Baltic Express – From Tallinn, Estonia to Moscow, Russia

This overnight journey takes you from Tallinn, Estonia, passing through St. Petersburg before reaching Moscow, Russia.

You can choose between a two-berth or four-berth compartment, or opt for a more budget-friendly option with open sleeping berths or a carriage with regular seats.

Smith always advises against choosing a standard seat, likening it to trying to sleep on a park bench. Typically, couchettes are quite affordable and offer more privacy and security, making them worth the extra cost.

As you enter Russia, expect to go through passport control on this train as well.

Berlin Night Express – From Berlin, Germany to Malmö, Sweden

The Berlin Night Express offers a unique experience – traveling across the continent overnight and including a ferry ride along the way.

This seasonal sleeper train crosses the Baltic Sea between Trelleborg and Sassnitz on a ferry, with a four-hour journey during which you can stay on the train or explore the ferry's shops and restaurants.

For sleeping arrangements, you can choose a bed in a six-person couchette, or reserve an entire compartment just for yourself.

SJ Train – From Malmö, Sweden to Narvik, Norway

Head north through Sweden aboard the SJ Night Train, run by Swedish Railways, covering the journey from Malmö in the south to Narvik, Norway at the far north.

Choose from a variety of travel options: an economical seat, a six-bed couchette, a three-bed sleeper, or a single sleeper with a shower. Onboard amenities include a restaurant, bistro, and bar.

These compartments are exceptionally well-equipped, featuring mood lighting and cozy duvets for those with upgraded tickets.

First Class travelers also have access to the exclusive SJ Lounge in both Stockholm and Gothenburg.

Snalltaget – a seasonal Swedish service – travels from Malmö to Åre, a popular winter sports destination in the northwest of Sweden.

Snalltaget adjusts its schedule to align with the arrival and departure times of skiers heading to Åre’s ski resorts.

Onboard, you'll find a restaurant called Krogen, which is Swedish for 'pub.' It's the perfect place to fuel up before hitting the slopes. The dining experience is elevated with food served on porcelain plates, and the menu includes treats like Swedish cheese pie and cinnamon buns.

There are four different sleeper options available – choose from a berth in a couchette, a private compartment, a private compartment with breakfast, or a family-sized private compartment.

Kiev Express – a train journey from Warsaw, Poland to Kiev, Ukraine.

The Kiev Express connects Warsaw to Kiev, offering a variety of sleeping arrangements including a three-person compartment, double sleeper, or single sleeper.

The journey takes over 17 hours, and with no food service available, it's wise to bring your own snacks for the ride.

You’ll still enjoy a morning tea or coffee along with a light snack.

Within Poland, there are also several night train services, such as the route from Swinoujscie to Warsaw.

Italia Rail Night Trains

Italy offers a variety of night train routes that will take you across the country, from the toe to the tip of the boot.

With Italia Rail, you can travel between cities like Rome and Palermo, Naples and Milan, or Bolzano and Naples.

The trains offer typical accommodation options like sleepers and couchettes, though the exact carriages can vary by route. The most luxurious choice is the Excelsior Sleeper, featuring a private shower and a complimentary continental breakfast.

On the more budget-friendly end are the couchette carriages, which offer basic but adequate comfort.

Smith reminds passengers that not every sleeper train is meant to be a lavish experience.

"The truth is, you’ll find comfortable sleeping cars alongside more affordable couchettes on European trains. It's not all about luxury; it’s about practical comfort for getting from one place to another, and it’s a lot of fun traveling with friends," he says.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – London, England to Venice, Italy

You didn’t think we could create a list of European night trains without including the iconic Orient Express, did you?

The Orient Express is the epitome of glamour, forever etched in history by Agatha Christie’s famous novels.

While the original service is no longer in operation, the Venice-Simplon Orient Express continues as an exclusive private train, blending old-world charm with modern luxury.

The journey spans 24 hours, giving you ample opportunity to fully savor the experience.

The classic vintage charm is evident in the sleeping cars from the 1920s, 30s, and 50s.

This version of the Orient Express actually combines two separate train services into one extraordinary journey.

Upon arriving in Kent, South East England, you disembark the first train, journey through the Channel Tunnel to France, and then board the elegant 1920s French blue-and-gold Wagon-Lits sleeping cars for the rest of your voyage.

These authentic sleeping cars maintain their vintage charm, so while you won’t find showers or air conditioning, the classic wooden panels and nostalgic atmosphere more than make up for it.

For a more modern touch of luxury, you can now book a Grand Suite complete with a parlor and en suite bathroom.

It's important to note that while meals are included, drinks are extra. The Orient Express is renowned for its exceptional dining, offering far superior options to the typical train fare, with three fine dining restaurant cars.

Leave the casual attire behind, as there’s an evening dress code. Many passengers embrace the Art Deco theme, donning glamorous outfits reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties.

Lovcen Sleeper Train – Belgrade, Serbia to Bar, Montenegro

It’s a bit of a missed opportunity to book a night berth on this vintage train, which rolls from the Serbian capital southwest towards Montenegro’s glittering Adriatic coast. During the daytime, this is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking rail journeys in the world.

The train clatters through misty mountain landscapes, past sheer cliffs, towering railway bridges, winding tunnels, and birch forests concealing hidden Alpine lakes.

On the bright side, this night train offers a genuine throwback experience, from its vintage sleeper cabins to midnight border crossings (the route briefly enters Bosnia and Herzegovina). And even under the moonlight or stars, the landscape remains spectacular.

Even better, why not take a round-trip? Sleep one way, enjoy the scenery the other.

Booking is a bit tricky, though. There's no online service, so you’ll need to show up at the station at either end to secure your berth. However, it rarely sells out, even during peak summer months.

For more expert tips on European sleeper trains, head over to Mark Smith’s website Seat61.com