Travelling by night train with children

Which compartment?

For families a private four-berth couchette compartment is usually best: the space is yours, children can go to bed early and you disturb nobody.

A sleeper compartment with its own washbasin or shower costs more but is more comfortable on long routes or with small children who wake at night.

Fares and discounts

Most European night train operators carry young children at strongly reduced fares, or free without their own berth. A dedicated bed always carries a supplement.

Book the family in one single booking — that is the only way to be sure of sharing one compartment.

What to pack

One small overnight bag per person with pyjamas, toothbrush and a water bottle keeps the compartment liveable; large cases go under the lower bunk or in the rack.

Bring food and water: not every night train has a bar, and it often closes early. Add a night light, earplugs and a book or audio story.

The night itself

Let children use the upper berth only where the operator allows it; a lower bed with a safety net is safer for young children.

Keep the compartment locked and store passports and tickets in a small bag near your pillow. Border checks usually happen on board.

Frequently asked questions