A few years ago, sleeper trains were said to be dying out – made redundant by high-speed trains and cheap flights. However, in this environmentally aware era, the overnight train journey is staging a welcome comeback, especially in its European heartland.
Why Trains Beat Flights
Everyone knows the drill – daydream about taking a break, find a cheap airfare, endure the hassle of getting to a distant airport, and being squeezed into sardine class before the holiday fun actually begins. However, catching a train to your destination can transform your travel experience. The rail journey often becomes an enjoyable part of your holiday, rather than just a means to an end. As the picturesque countryside rolls by your window, a train trip eases you into a relaxed mindset, preparing you to fully enjoy your vacation.
The Versatility of the Night Train
Sleeper trains significantly enhance the rail experience. They offer the convenience of departing and arriving closer to city centers than any airport, with the added benefit of allowing passengers to stretch out and sleep for much of the journey. Consequently, this negates the expense of one night’s accommodation and provides opportunities for sightseeing during the day. Sleeper berths come in various levels of comfort and price, from couchettes with shared dorm-style arrangements to more luxurious private berths.
Moreover, food services are available on most sleeper trains, providing a more civilized dining experience compared to plastic trays at 36,000 feet. Many sleeper trains boast cafe-bars serving simple snacks and drinks, while others feature full-scale dining cars offering hot meals on proper crockery. Traveling by train allows you to enjoy your meals while admiring the scenic views through the window. If dining options are limited, preparing a picnic of local delicacies before departure offers an enjoyable experience on board.
Going Green by Rail
Why has there been such a remarkable turnaround in the popularity of sleeper trains? The answer lie in the concept of flygskam, or “flight shame.” This movement reflects a growing awareness of the environmental impacts of high carbon emissions associated with commercial flights. Travelers are increasingly opting for surface transportation, with sleeper trains being a key element of this trend.
Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) stands out as a leading actor in this resurgence. After German operator Deutsche Bahn discontinued its sleeper routes, ÖBB revitalized the service with refurbished and expanded Nightjet services across Europe. This initiative not only meets the rising demand but also revives previously dormant overnight routes, enhancing travel options for those prioritizing sustainability. Other operators are also planning new sleeper train routes, reinforcing the importance of this growing mode of transport.
In addition to national rail services, there’s an array of privately-run sleeper trains worldwide offering luxurious “rail cruises.” Thus, thanks to flygskam, sleeper trains have re-emerged as a viable and appealing method for modern travel.
Ten of the Best Sleeper Train Routes
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Vienna to Brussels: This Nightjet train travels from Austria through major German cities en route to the Belgian capital.
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Warsaw to Kiev: Ride this atmospheric old-school sleeper train, which requires a wheel adjustment for Ukraine’s different rail gauge in the middle of the night.
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Spirit of the Outback: Comfortable Australian sleeper train heading from Brisbane to Longreach, in the heart of the Outback.
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Eastern & Oriental Express: Dress for dinner aboard this luxury train as it runs from Bangkok to Singapore, with sightseeing excursions in Thailand and Malaysia.
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Coast Starlight: Features ocean and mountain views as it progresses from Los Angeles via Oakland and Portland to Seattle, USA.
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The Ocean: Depart from Montreal, awaken to the lakes of New Brunswick, and arrive at the Atlantic coastline of Halifax, Canada.
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Pride of Africa: Traveling through South Africa between Cape Town and Pretoria, this top-notch train offers fine dining and sightseeing.
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Belgrade to Bar: Night train traveling from Serbia through spectacular mountain scenery to Montenegro’s Adriatic coast.
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Ankara to Baku: A brand-new sleeper service destined for launch, traveling from the Turkish capital via Tbilisi to the shores of the Caspian Sea.
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Caledonian Sleeper: Sip a fine whiskey as this upgraded sleeper service heads from London to various destinations across Scotland.
