European Sleeper Expands Overnight Train Routes in Europe

Updated: September 3, 2024, 4:06am CDT

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What Is European Sleeper?
New European Sleeper Route Between Brussels and Venice
Cost of Tickets
Final Thoughts

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In 2023, European Sleeper ran its first overnight train from Brussels to Berlin, and just months later it expanded that route with additional stops along the way and a line extension to Prague. It was part of a resurgence of train travel — especially sleeper trains — happening in Europe.

Now, the aptly named European Sleeper has announced a new route connecting Belgium and the Netherlands to Italy. Tickets are now on sale for this route, which will start in early 2025.

If you’re interested in train travel in Europe, here’s what you should know about this growing company and its expanded route network.

What Is European Sleeper?

Calling itself “The Good Night Train,” European Sleeper operates night trains with seats, bunks, and beds on board. It advertises fares as low as 49€ (~$54) per person, and its first route launched in 2023, running between Brussels and Berlin with a stop in Amsterdam along the way. It ran 3 times per week before expanding in 2024, adding stops in Antwerp and Rotterdam and extending the line past Berlin to Prague, also tacking on 4 additional stops between Berlin and Prague.

European Sleeper route map Brussels Prague — Brussels to Prague route map. Image Credit: European Sleeper

Seats are assigned, and compartments can include 6 seats (cheapest option), 6 couchettes (sometimes referred to as “hard beds” in train travel), or 3 beds, including a sink in the compartment. This is the most expensive option and includes breakfast and bottled water with the fare.

European Sleeper sleeper cabin — Sleeper cabin inside the train. Image Credit: European Sleeper

New European Sleeper Route Between Brussels and Venice

Starting on February 5, 2025, a new route between Brussels and Venice will operate twice a week on what the company calls “a new seasonal night train.” It’s confirmed for February and March, though continued operations past March aren’t guaranteed.

Interestingly, the train will depart Brussels and head north, away from its final destination, to connect through 3 stops in the Netherlands before turning south for 2 stops in Germany, a stop in Austria, and then 3 stops in Italy.

European Sleeper route map Brussels Venice — Route map of the new train route from Brussels to Venice. Image Credit: European Sleeper

“We are pleased to introduce this new night train connection from the North Sea to the Mediterranean. Passengers will be able to board our train from Belgium and the Netherlands, and relax in the comfort of the restaurant car, while the train transports them through Germany and Austria, and across the Alps, ending in the historic cities of Verona and Venice the following day. This marks a new important milestone for European Sleeper and the convenience of night travel across Europe more sustainably.”
Chris Engelsman, co-founder of European Sleeper

Moreover, the company says it’s working in conjunction with the European Commission to launch a daily overnight train service between Amsterdam and Barcelona.

Bottom Line:

European Sleeper has a route between Brussels and Prague and will soon offer a route between Brussels and Venice, though that route may just be temporary. Additionally, the company is planning to offer a service between Amsterdam and Barcelona. These are all overnight train services.

Cost of Tickets

Costs vary by the type of accommodation you choose and the distance you travel, as well as variability in dates to account for peak and off-peak travel periods. Seats from Brussels to Prague start from 49€ (~$54) per person during peak winter holidays, while couchettes are available from 79€ (~$87), and sleepers are available from 159€ (~$176).

It’s also possible to travel on European Sleeper with Interrail and Eurail Global Passes. However, you’ll need to make a reservation to secure a spot. Reservations start at 11€ (~$12) for a seat, 42€ (~$46) for a couchette, or 89€ (~$98) for a sleeper. However, reservation prices can vary by distance and compartment type. Exact reservation fees are available in the chart at the bottom of this page.

To purchase tickets, head to EuropeanSleeper.eu and click on Book tickets in the top right corner. From there, you’ll choose your desired starting and ending points, number of passengers, and intended travel dates. If trains aren’t available on your chosen dates, you’ll see 2 days earlier and 2 days later to help you adjust your plans.

Final Thoughts

Overnight train travel is enjoying a resurgence in Europe, and European Sleeper is expanding. You can’t book domestic train travel within any country where it operates, but you can book relatively inexpensive train tickets to board in 1 country and wake up in another.

Starting in February, you’ll be able to take overnight trains between Venice and Brussels. Whether those will last and when we might see the Barcelona train will depend on European Sleeper’s continued success.