Since May 2023, European Sleeper has been running a sleek and comfortable sleeper train service between Berlin, Germany and Brussels, Belgium. This Dutch-Belgian provider has sleeper trains that run two to three days a week in both directions. The routes serve several popular destinations along the way, with stops in Amsterdam, Antwerp, Rotterdam, and, of course, Brussels and Berlin.
There are many reasons to like traveling by night train in Europe, but one of the biggest draws is the convenience of traveling while you sleep: on European Sleeper’s Brussels to Berlin route, passengers board in Brussels in the evening and arrive in Berlin early the next morning. In the other direction (Berlin to Brussels), passengers leave Berlin late in the evening and arrive in Brussels, refreshed and ready to start the day in the middle of the morning.
European Sleeper will be expanding the Brussels - Berlin line at the end of March 2024 to run all the way from Brussels to Prague. In addition to the cities listed above, this extension will add stops at the German cities of Dresden and Bad Schandau and the Czech cities of Děčín, Ústí nad Labem, and Prague.
European Sleeper has modern, cozy coaches that offer three different night train experiences: a Couchette (sleeps up to 6 passengers), a Sleeper (sleeps up to 3 passengers), and a traditional seat reservation in a 6-person seating compartment. Find more information on the different ticket types and the amenities they include.
Just a few years ago, night trains in Europe seemed like a thing of the past. The extreme popularity of budget flights seemed to all but ensure the night train’s demise. But then, people started to wake up to the hidden environmental cost of flying and rediscovered the romance of train travel. Fast forward to today where we are witnessing a renaissance of night trains in Europe. As part of our commitment to offering convenient and affordable options to travelers who want to lower their carbon footprint, you can now book your night train tickets on a European Sleeper train directly on Omio.
Brussels | Antwerp | Rotterdam | Amsterdam | Berlin | Dresden (coming soon) | Prague (coming soon)
European Sleeper offers night train service to and from Berlin two to three times a week. If you’re taking the train from Germany, you can fall asleep in Berlin and wake up in a number of world-class destinations across Europe, by taking these night train connections: the Berlin to Amsterdam night train, Berlin to Rotterdam night train, Berlin to Antwerp night train, and Berlin to Brussels night train.
If, on the other hand, your destination is Berlin, European Sleeper trains will pick you up in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Antwerp or Brussels and deposit you the next morning in Germany’s storied capital city. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, you will benefit from a night’s sleep, and most importantly, you won’t have lost a whole day to travel.
Once you arrive at Berlin hbf, there are countless things to keep you busy, whether it’s the city’s famed nightlife, its world class museums, theater, and concert halls, or the sobering, vividly immortalized history of the city’s Nazi and Communist past.
European Sleeper will soon offer night train service to and from Dresden three times a week. This route will connect Dresden to many of the top destinations in Germany, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, and Belgium—all by night train.
Located in eastern Germany near the Czech border, Dresden is famous for its beautiful architecture and its fascinating history. The city has some of the best-preserved examples of Baroque and Rococo architecture in Germany, and highlights for visitors include the Church of Our Lady, the Semperoper Opera House, and the wildly ornate Pfunds dairy shop. The city was a major hub in the East German state, further adding to its rich and varied history.
Beginning March 25, 2024, European Sleeper will extend its night train services to the enchanting city of Prague, running trips to and from the Czech capital three times a week. This new route promises to connect Prague with various prime European locations in Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium, including stops in Berlin, Amsterdam, and Brussels.
Prague, known as the “City of a Hundred Spires,” is renowned for its stunning architecture, rich history, and its thriving art and cultural scenes. Must-visit attractions include the Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square with its jaw-droppingly beautiful Astronomical Clock. The city’s blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture makes it a visual feast, while its history as the former capital of Bohemia—a thriving and influential hub for thinkers, artists, and inventors at the time—adds even more layers of intrigue and charm.
European Sleeper offers comfortable and convenient night trains to and from Amsterdam several times a week. This sleeper train service connects Amsterdam with key European cities like Berlin, Antwerp, and Brussels (and soon Dresden and Prague).
Amsterdam, with its iconic canals, historic buildings, and vibrant cultural scene, is a must-visit. The city offers a range of attractions, whether it's the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, or just a leisurely cruise along the canal. Amsterdam is also a major tech and business hub, with companies like Shell, WeTransfer, Netflix having their European headquarters based there. Its rich artistic heritage and lively nightlife make it an ideal destination for both leisure and business travelers.
Berlin at Night. Credit: Unsplash
European Sleeper's night train service also includes Rotterdam. The service is designed for both convenience and comfort, ensuring travelers can enjoy a peaceful night's sleep en route to one of several major European cities served by this route.
Rotterdam, known for its modern architecture and bustling port, stands out with its innovative design and cultural diversity. Attractions like the Cube Houses, the Erasmus Bridge, and the Rotterdam Zoo showcase the city's unique blend of art, architecture, and culture. Rotterdam’s raw, yet lively spirit makes it an exciting stop for anyone looking for a less conventional destination in Europe.
European Sleeper's night train service connects Brussels with several key European cities multiple times a week. This service allows travelers to comfortably journey overnight, arriving fresh and ready to explore Brussels.
As the de facto capital of the European Union, Brussels is a city steeped in history and culture. Key attractions include the Grand Place, the Atomium, and the Royal Palace. The city's rich tapestry of medieval streets, lively squares, and impressive architecture makes it a fascinating destination for all travelers.
Antwerp is another Belgian city served by European Sleeper's night train. The service ensures a convenient and restful journey to and from Antwerp, connecting it with major European destinations.
Known as the “Diamond Capital of the World,” Antwerp is also famous for its historic port, Baroque architecture, and vibrant fashion scene. Highlights for visitors include the Diamond District, the Antwerp Zoo, the Rubens House, and the internationally renowned Fashion Museum. Whether you're interested in art, history, or shopping, Antwerp offers a delightful experience for every traveler.
Not sure where to begin your European Sleeper adventure? Check out these popular European Sleeper destinations for travel details and nearby attractions:
European Sleeper offers 3 kinds of reservations: Seat, Couchette, and Sleeper.
SeatThis is the most budget-friendly option. This ticket type reserves you a seat in a traditional 6-person train compartment. Note: this is not a sleeper car, so this option is perfect for night-owls or anyone who has no problem sleeping in an upright position.
CouchetteIn the Couchette sleeper car, you will share your night train journey across Europe with up to 6 other people. European Sleeper Couchettes come in 4-bed and 6-bed configurations, with beds stacked vertically on both sides. There is no permanent seating in couchette cars, but the lower beds can be tucked up to reveal daytime seating as well as a large fold-out table.
SleeperSleeper cars are the most comfortable way to take a night train in Europe. With a max of 3 beds, sleeper compartments have extra space and permanent seating in the car, which means you can sit up as late as you want and watch the night roll by (In couchettes seating disappears as soon as people pull out their beds). There is also a washbasin directly in the compartment, so you don’t need to go out into the corridor to brush your teeth or freshen up. That said, the toilet is still in the hallway.
There are no separate ticket classes in European Sleeper trains, but each ticket type comes with different amenities. The basic Seat Reservation includes the fewest amenities whereas the Sleeper car offers the highest level of comfort. Below is a list of what amenities are included with each ticket type:
Amenities for Seat Reservation in 6-Person Compartment (non-sleeper option)
Amenities in Couchette Car:
Amenities in Sleeper Car:
This is the most spacious and comfortable travel option on European Sleeper trains.
Easy Night
Good Night
Flex Night
Arriving at Amsterdam Centraal after a night train journey, travelers will find a blend of convenience and historic charm. Designed by P.J.H. Cuypers, this architectural marvel from 1889 serves as a stunning introduction to Amsterdam. The station offers several essential amenities like cafes, toilets, and minimarts.
If you need somewhere to store your luggage until you can access your accommodation, you’re in luck: Amsterdam Centraal has small and large lockers available to rent. For those eager to explore, bike rental facilities are available very close to the station, and for the less adventurous, a taxi stand provides easy access to the city. Stepping outside, the vibrant city life and easy access to public transport await, marking Amsterdam Centraal as a central hub for visitors and locals alike.
Brussels-Midi Station (also known as Brussels-South) is a major transport hub in Brussels, with high speed train connections to several destinations in France and Germany as well as Eurostar service to London. After disembarking from the night train, visitors are greeted with a blend of modernity and convenience, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the city. As the final stop for the European Sleeper night train from Berlin, Brussels-Midi Station is equipped with various amenities to cater to travelers’ needs.
The station offers a range of luggage lockers in sizes M, L, XL, and XXL, located conveniently in the passageway near platforms 3-6. These lockers are accessible 24 hours a day, ensuring secure storage for all types of luggage. This is a perfect option in case your accommodation is not available by the time you arrive in Brussels.
The station also offers Eurostar connections to London, a popular connection for those wishing to combine a Euro sleeper train journey with a Eurostar trip to London. If you are making this connection, make sure to leave at least a few hours between your scheduled arrival in Brussels and your departure on the Eurostar. You’ll need breathing room for any possible delays, and you should give yourself enough time to go through all the necessary steps, such as customs, passport control, and luggage checks before departing.
Brussels-Midi doesn't just serve as a transport hub; it also boasts various facilities like (paid) Wi-Fi, shops, bars, and restaurants. For those seeking a quiet retreat, the Pullman Hotel bar offers a sophisticated escape with free Wi-Fi, outlets to charge electronics, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The bar on the ground floor opens at 9 am daily, which is perfect because the European Sleeper train from Berlin arrives at the station at 9:27 am. The hotel is conveniently integrated into the station, easily accessible from the concourse.
To explore the city center, travelers can take a short 4-minute train ride to Brussels-Central station (purchase tickets from a self-service machine). Alternatively, for those who prefer to walk, a 22-minute stroll from Brussels-Midi takes you to the Grande Place in the city center, offering a pleasant introduction to Brussels' streetscapes.
Brussels-Midi South station, with its comprehensive facilities and convenient location, serves as a perfect gateway for visitors arriving from Berlin, providing everything a traveler might need to start their journey in Brussels.
The European Sleeper train has two stops in Berlin, one at the Berlin Central Station and one at the Berlin Ostbahnhof. We’ve included information about both below to help you choose which station to disembark at.
Berlin Central Station (Berlin Hbf), the city's primary train station, is a perfect blend of historic charm and modern convenience, especially for travelers arriving from a night train journey. This station, situated on the site of the historic Lehrter Bahnhof, offers a variety of cafes, fast-food joints, restaurants, and even a supermarket.
For those who have traveled overnight and need to store their luggage before checking into their accommodation, Berlin Hbf offers a range of locker sizes, with prices from €2.00 for 2 hours to €6.00 for 24 hours, providing secure and convenient storage options.
If you are in need of the restroom or would like to freshen up a bit, you can use the clean and modern toilets. These cost €1 to use, which is common practice in many European train stations.
Berlin Hbf is also a gateway to the city's rich history and cultural sites: the iconic Brandenburg Gate and the poignant Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe are just a short walk or U-Bahn ride away. For art lovers, the nearby Hamburger Bahnhof art gallery promises to offer a rich cultural experience.
The station’s comprehensive facilities also include various local transport connections. Taxis are readily available for those preferring a direct route to their destination. Additionally, the S-Bahn (on platforms 15 and 16) and U-Bahn networks are easily accessible, connecting travelers to various parts of Berlin, quickly and easily.
Berlin Hauptbahnhof stands out as an ideal starting point for exploring Berlin, offering both comfort and convenience to travelers arriving from their night train journeys.
Berlin Ostbahnhof, a key station in the heart of Berlin, is an ideal starting point for travelers arriving in the morning after a sleeper train journey, as it’s home to numerous cafes, shops, and restaurants, providing a range of conveniences for a groggy traveler stepping off a night train. For those needing to store their luggage, there is a paid luggage storage facility available, offering a secure place to keep belongings for a fee.
Located conveniently close to the city center, Berlin Ostbahnhof is easily accessible via public transportation, including the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, and bus services. This makes it a practical choice for those who have traveled overnight and are looking to jump straight into exploring Berlin or connect to other destinations across Germany and Europe, such as Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Paris, and Warsaw.
One of the highlights near Berlin Ostbahnhof is the East Side Gallery, a significant historical and cultural site featuring a preserved section of the Berlin Wall adorned with street art. Ostbahnhof is also ideally positioned for those eager to dive into Berlin's renowned nightlife and techno scene, as the station is a stone's throw away from some of the city's most famous clubs and bars.
In addition to its proximity to the nightlife, Ostbahnhof is also the perfect starting point for exploring the Districts of Kreuzberg and Neukölln, which can be reached with a short U-Bahn or bus ride. These are both hip, international, and highly multicultural districts known for their unique blend of cultures, cuisines, and for their thriving art and music scenes. This area offers a glimpse into the diverse fabric of Berlin's society and is a must-visit for those wanting to experience the city's contemporary urban life.
Berlin Ostbahnhof's combination of accessibility, comprehensive facilities, and proximity to key attractions makes it an excellent hub for travelers seeking to experience the vibrancy and history of Berlin.
European Sleeper is relatively new to the sleeper train scene, operating since May of 2022. The company currently runs a sleeper train service 2-3 times a week between the cities of Berlin and Brussels, and will soon expand this line to include Dresden, Prague, and several other cities in between. Its two founders, Elmer van Buuren and Chris Engelsman, are not simply businessmen: they harbor a deep passion for night trains and want to be an active part of making sleeper train travel an integral, convenient, and affordable part of travel in Europe.
European Sleeper, which brands itself as the “Good Night Train,” is unique in several ways, but perhaps what makes this Dutch-Belgian venture most notable is its cooperative structure. With a cooperative structure made up of small private investors, European Sleeper guarantees its policies and practices are closely aligned with the communities they serve.
Night Trains in Europe are a fast, safe, and efficient way of getting around the continent. As recently as 5 years ago, European night trains seemed like they were a thing of the past—many night train services were discontinued because they simply couldn’t compete with low-cost European airfares. However, much has changed in recent years: a new wave of travelers, fed up with budget airlines and eager to reduce their carbon footprints, are traveling by night train. These travelers are combining the incredible environmental benefits of train travel with the convenience of traveling while you sleep. Not only is it great for the environment, but it’s also a great option for travelers with budget or time constraints: you essentially save the cost of spending a night in a hotel.
European Sleeper is just one of many companies who have added popular sleeper train services in Europe in the past few years, completely changing the transportation landscape in the process. Learn more about the best Sleeper Train routes in Europe on our dedicated Omio page. There we discuss the most popular and convenient night train routes offered by European Sleeper, ÖBB NightJet, EuroNight and other major night train providers in Europe. Learn more andbe part of the night train revival sweeping Europe.
The European Sleeper is a new sleeper train service launched in May 2022, connecting cities like Brussels, Antwerp, Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Berlin. This exciting new addition to the sleeper train market is an independent operator, passionate about bringing back sleeper trains in Europe, with plans to expand to Dresden and Prague. The service is known for its comfortable, though older, rolling stock and its mission to revive sleeper train travel all across the continent.
Another special point about European Sleeper is that it is a co-op, funded by small investors and committed to benefiting the communities it serves.
The “European Sleeper” train provider is known for its efficiency, its modern take on customer service, and its deep commitment to making night train travel an integral part of travel in Europe.
Because there is only one model of sleeper car in use in Europe, European Sleeper uses the same rolling stock for sleeper trains as the other European night train companies. Because of this, the layout and general design of your sleeper car will be comparable to other companies. However, European Sleeper offers a host of nice amenities, particularly for travelers who choose the Sleeper ticket type, which includes perks such as extra-luxurious comforters on the beds and a welcome drink served to you shortly after departing. Like they say, the devil’s in the details!
Omio’s advanced scheduling platform makes it easy to find the cheapest night train tickets, allowing you to compare different dates and providers. As always, the further in advance you book, the better chances you have at finding a cheap ticket.
On European Sleeper trains, you only need to reserve a seat if you are traveling in the (traditional seat compartment) (non-sleeper option). Otherwise, your sleeper train reservation will include a reservation for a specific berth (i.e., bed) in your Sleeper or Couchette compartment. In Couchette trains, seating folds away at night to make room for the beds. In all sleeper cars seating is shared with the other passengers in your compartment.
Amenities vary based on the kind of reservation you make. There are three options: Seat Reservations, Couchette, and Sleeper, with the Seat Reservation (non-sleeper option) being the cheapest with the fewest amenities, and the Sleeper ticket type offering the most space, comfort, and the widest range of amenities. Amenities for the Sleeper car include a light breakfast, a sink and mirror in the compartment for freshening up, a luxurious comforter on your bed, and a light breakfast. For a full breakdown of the amenities included in each ticket type please click here
There are no specific baggage weight or size restrictions on European Sleeper trains. This is one of the great benefits of traveling by train as compared to flying in Europe.
You may bring a dog or a cat on the train (free of charge) provided you (and whoever you are traveling with) occupy an entire Sleeper or Couchette compartment.. To ensure this is the case you must book out any unoccupied beds in your compartment.
When traveling with children on European Sleeper trains, there are specific policies. Children aged 3 and under can travel for free, provided they share a bed, couchette, or seat with a paying adult. However, only one child of this age range is allowed to share a bed with the accompanying adult. If you have more than one child in this age range, or you have a child 4 or over, please book an additional bed for them. For children aged 4 to 11, tickets are available at a reduced ‘Easy Night’ fare, but with the flexibility of the 'Flex Night' fare conditions. Safety measures such as nets are not provided, and it is advised to let smaller children sleep in the lower beds for safety.
If your European Sleeper train happens to be delayed, information will be communicated through announcements at the station and, for longer delays, via email and/or text message. If you experience a delay you can contact Omio’s customer service and we will advise on the next steps.
The cancellation and refund policies for European Sleeper train tickets vary based on the fare type you select when booking. The "Easy Night" fare is the most economical but does not allow for cancellations (no refund). The "Good Night" option offers more flexibility, permitting a full refund if canceled more than a month in advance, and a 50% refund if canceled up to 15 days before departure. The "Flex Night" fare provides the highest level of flexibility, allowing for a full refund for cancellations made up to 48 hours prior to departure. For more detailed information, please refer to the specific terms and conditions for your booking.
With European sleeper trains, a general rule of thumb is that the earlier you book, the better. Sleeper trains in Europe are currently a very popular way of getting around and the most comfortable cars usually sell out well in advance. If you want to book a private compartment, or you’re a woman wishing to travel in a women-only compartment, this is all the more true.
There is no First vs Second class distinction on European Sleeper cars. That said, the various ticket types come with varying levels of comfort and amenities. A Seat Reservation in a traditional train compartment (the non-sleeper option) is the cheapest option, but it also comes with the fewest amenities. The Couchette ticket type has some amenities and basic comforts, and the Sleeper ticket will ensure the most comfortable and luxurious night train experience. See our Ticket Types section for more information
For travel on the European Sleeper train, you would generally require a Schengen visa if you are from a country that does not have visa-free travel arrangements with the Schengen countries. This visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen Zone for a short period. However, it's important to check the specific visa requirements for your nationality and the countries you plan to visit, as regulations can vary. Always ensure you have the correct visa before starting your journey.
If you are an American citizen, you typically do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) in the Schengen Area, which includes all the countries served by the European Sleeper train route. This applies to tourist travel, which would include traveling on the European Sleeper train. That said, it’s always a good idea to check the latest travel advisories and visa requirements from official sources or the embassy of your destination country before your trip, as immigration policies can change.
All passengers should travel with a valid passport. Alternatively, if you’re an EU citizen, you can simply travel with your EU-issued ID card.