Seat
The cheapest option: a reclining seat in a compartment or open carriage.
- ·Dimmed night lighting
- ·Power socket and reading light
- ·No bedding provided
Independent guide to night trains in Europe
The world wakes up outside your window.
Everything you need to know about night train travel from Belgium and the Netherlands: destinations, comfort classes, journey times and your rights as a rail passenger.
Popular destinations
Sixteen cities and regions you can reach from the Low Countries while you sleep – directly or with one easy change.
Departure point · Netherlands
Amsterdam
The northern departure point of the Low Countries
Departure point · Belgium
Antwerp
Boarding in the cathedral of railway stations
Departure point · Belgium
Brussels
Belgium's night train hub
Departure point · Netherlands
Rotterdam
Architecture city with an evening boarding point
Direct · Germany
Berlin
Breakfast with a view of the Spree
Direct · Germany
Dresden
Baroque on the banks of the Elbe
Direct · Czechia
Prague
The golden city without a single flight
Direct · Czechia
Bohemian Switzerland
Sandstone cliffs within walking distance of the platform
Direct · Germany
Saxon Switzerland
The Bastei at first light
Direct · Germany
Cologne
The German pivot of the night network
With a change · Germany
Hamburg
Harbour air at sunrise
Direct · Switzerland
Zurich
Waking up at the edge of the Alps
With a change · Italy
Milan
South through the Gotthard
With a change · Italy
Como
From sleeping car to boat jetty
With a change · France
Paris
Departure hall of the French night network
With a change · Spain
Barcelona
South without flying
Choose your comfort
From a budget seat to a private compartment with its own washbasin: these are the three classes found on almost every night train.
Couchette
Berths for four to six people, with sheets, pillow and blanket.
- ·Bedding included
- ·Women-only compartments often available
- ·Best value for money
Sleeper
A private compartment for one to three people with real beds and a washbasin.
- ·Maximum privacy
- ·Breakfast on board
- ·Sometimes private shower and toilet
Practical tips
Book well ahead
Night trains have a limited number of beds. Booking three to four months ahead usually gives the lowest fare and a free choice of comfort class.
Luggage and safety
There is rarely a strict weight limit, but compartment space is small. Lock the door from the inside and keep valuables next to your pillow.
Travel with peace of mind
If an international train is delayed or cancelled you have European passenger rights. Our practical info page explains how to claim them.
Guides
Night train or plane: an honest comparison
Time, price, comfort and CO₂ side by side for short European distances from Belgium and the Netherlands.
Travelling by night train with children
Which compartment to choose, what to pack and how to keep the night calm — practical tips for families.
Booking a night train: when, where and how
Booking windows, operators, price tiers and the mistakes that cost travellers money.
Taking your bike on the night train
Which trains carry bicycles, what a bike space costs and how to reserve one.
Sleeping better on a night train: 12 practical tips
From choosing the right berth to temperature, noise and a bedtime routine.
Interrail and night trains: how to combine them
What the pass covers, which supplements you pay and how to plan a night-train route.