Discover Europe’s Night Train Renaissance: Explore Hidden Gems from Berlin to Prague
Discovering Europe by Night Train
Night trains are making a comeback in Europe. They offer a chance for travelers to sleep in one country and wake up in another. For those who care about the environment, this is an appealing option compared to flying.
The European Sleeper launched its service from Brussels to Berlin about ten months ago. You can now travel from Berlin to Prague, with stops in Antwerp, Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Dresden, and more. The train offers three ticket options: seated areas, couchettes, and sleeper compartments.
The rise of night trains aligns with efforts to reduce carbon footprints. The European Commission encourages investment in this type of travel to meet climate goals. In December 2023, ÖBB, Austria’s national railway, expanded its Nightjet service to connect Berlin with Vienna and Brussels. Deutsche Bahn also reintroduced a Paris-to-Berlin overnight train service.
Night trains are charming but still not widely used. They are often more expensive than flights, and schedules may be less frequent. However, they serve unique destinations that are not reachable by plane, such as Bad Schandau.
Upon boarding the European Sleeper in Berlin, travelers find comfortable sleeper compartments that can accommodate three people. Some compartments have modern amenities, such as air conditioning. The train aims to enhance its services and comfort over time.
As for capacity, the train can usually hold 350 to 400 passengers. During peak seasons, it will add more carriages for a maximum capacity of 600 people.
Outdoor enthusiasts should consider getting off at Bad Schandau. This quaint town is the entrance to Saxon Switzerland National Park, known for its stunning landscapes. The area offers beautiful towns along the Elbe River and is connected by hiking trails, including the Malerweg, which spans 116 km.
After exploring Bad Schandau, don’t miss the Bastei rock formation. It features a nearly 1,000-year-old castle and draws around 1.5 million visitors annually. Early mornings or shoulder seasons are the best times to enjoy the site without large crowds.
For those interested in outdoor activities, Saxon Switzerland offers biking routes and steam ship excursions. After a day of adventure, Bad Schandau is also a great place to unwind, known for its spa facilities.
Finish your night with a ride back on the European Sleeper, ready to greet a new city. This travel option offers a unique blend of scenery, comfort, and accessibility, making it a delightful way to explore Europe. Enjoy the journey as much as the destination!