Travel by night train

Room for your luggage

With train travel, you can bring as much luggage as you can carry without paying extra. Although, space could be limited in couchettes and compartments with reclining seats. 

Save precious time and money 

On a budget? Night trains save you money and time. You can travel long distances while you sleep (and you'll be gifted extra time to explore) and dodge the expense of a hotel.

Arrive in the heart of the city 

Many European stations are located in the heart of the city -so get ready to explore as soon as you arrive. 

Top tip: store your luggage at the train station until your hotel check-in opens. 

Bring your own food along for the ride 

One of the best benefits of train travel is that you can bring your own food and beverages. Pack a romantic picnic and bottle of wine (don't forget the corkscrew). Breakfast is sometimes included.

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Do I need a reservation?

Reservations are compulsory for all night trains (with or without a Pass), and they guarantee you a seat or bed on the train. Depending on the train, you can make reservations online, by phone, or sometimes at the train station.

Night train reservations are limited and often sell out quickly. Top tip: to avoid disappointment, book your reservation at least two months in advance.

How many travel days do I need to use?

When travelling on a night train with an Interrail Pass, you only have to record the day of departure. For example, if you travel on a night train from 4 to 5 January, you only record 4 January in the Rail Planner app or on the paper Pass Cover. 

On the day that your night train departs, you can take as many trains as you like - it's on the same day, after all. Top tip: if you take another train once your night train has arrived, you will need to use a new travel day. 

You need a Global Pass to book cross-border night trains, plus the entire trip must take place within the validity period of your Pass. 

Good to know: you cannot use your Pass on its last travel day on overnight trains (the validity expires at 23.59 hours). 

What accommodations options are available? 

Night trains have several accommodation options, ranging from reclining seats and couchettes to single compartments -some with private bathrooms. You naturally have to pay a higher reservation fee for the more luxurious options. 

Reclining seats (on some night trains): 

We can't pretend that this is the best option on night trains, but you will save loads of money, meet new friends and have the most freedom to walk around the compartment (there's no turbulence on this trip). Although the seat reclines, you will be sleeping in an upright position with a bunch of strangers (it's still more comfortable than air travel). 

Light sleeper? Consider a couchette upgrade. 

Couchettes: 

Think of a couchette as a hostel on wheels! Best shared with friends or family (so you don't have to bunk down with strangers), you will find yourself in a 6-berth compartment or a 4-berth compartment - it's worth paying more for this option. Couchettes transform from a seating area in the early evening to bunk beds at night. You will get a sheet, blanket, pillow, and usually a tea/coffee and croissant for breakfast. 

Sleeping compartments: 

Sleeping compartments are the most comfortable way to travel. Depending on availability, you can book a 1, 2, or 3-bed compartment for your hotel on wheels. You can request a standard sleeper with a washbasin (you'll find the toilet and shower down the corridor) or a deluxe sleeper with an ensuite shower and toilet inside your cabin. Note that the beds (or berths) are sold separately - you need to book all of the beds to have your own private compartment. You will get a sheet, blanket, duvet and pillow, and breakfast is included. 

Please note that the comfort and quality of the accommodation on night trains can vary.

Food on board 

Some European night trains don't have a restaurant car, so we recommend that you have dinner before you board. You can also bring your own snacks or picnic along for the ride to enjoy as you watch the world go by. 

Some last tips: 

Don't be alarmed if the train conductor wants to keep hold of your passport for the night - friendly conductors take care of border controls while you sleep. 

Night trains are as varied and charming as the countries in Europe and many of them offer Pass holders a sweet discount. 

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