4.9
4.6Discover the Comfort and Charm of Sleeper Trains
Explore the world of sleeper trains in Europe, the UK and beyond: your complete guide to overnight travel. Whether you’re planning a scenic journey through the Highlands or a cross-border adventure across Europe, this guide will help you book smart, travel comfortably, and wake up in a new destination feeling refreshed.
Your Guide to Booking a Sleeper Train on Omio
Discover Sleeper Trains in Europe and the UK
Looking for a unique and relaxing way to travel overnight? Booking a sleeper train is one of the best ways to cover long distances while getting a good night’s rest. On Omio, you can easily search, compare, and book your sleeper train journey across Europe, the UK, and even the US, all in one place.
With an Omio account, your tickets are saved directly on your phone, so no need to print anything. Whether you’re exploring sleeper trains in Europe or catching a sleeper train from London to Scotland, we’ve got your trip covered.
For more inspiration, check out our guide on the return of night trains in Window Seat, our official travel magazine.
Why Travel by Sleeper Train
There’s something timeless about traveling by sleeper train. Today’s options blend classic charm with modern comfort. Most sleeper trains offer cozy beds or recliners, and some even provide snacks or breakfast. You fall asleep to the rhythm of the rails and wake up ready to explore your destination.
Benefits of a sleeper train:
- Save time by traveling overnight
- Avoid paying for a hotel stay
- Travel with fewer luggage restrictions
- Reduce your carbon footprint compared to flying
Cheap Sleeper Train Tickets
Want to save money on European sleeper trains? Here are some quick tips:
- Choose Second Class instead of First Class
- Opt for slower or regional trains over high-speed ones
- Book early! Prices often go up closer to departure
- Be flexible with your dates to find lower fares
Sleeper Trains Europe: More Eco-Friendly Than Flying
If sustainability is important to you, sleeper trains are a great option. Compared to flying, they offer a lower carbon footprint and a smoother, less stressful experience: no long security lines or airport waits. Many European sleeper trains feature spacious seats, power outlets, and onboard amenities, making them a practical and comfortable choice.
Popular Sleeper Train Routes in Europe
Explore some of the best-known night train connections across the continent, from southern Italy to the Nordics, and everywhere in between.
Book Popular Sleeper Routes in Europe
Sleeper Train Routes Across Europe
Scandinavian Sleeper Train Network
UK Sleeper Train Destinations
European Sleeper Trains and Providers
Explore the best ways to book and travel on sleeper trains across Europe. Here's a breakdown of key operators and what they offer.
Major Sleeper Train Providers:
- ÖBB Nightjet – Austria, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, France, Netherlands
- European Sleeper – Brussels to Berlin, future routes to Prague and possibly London
- SNCF Intercités de Nuit – Overnight services across France
- Trenitalia Intercity Notte – Domestic Italy and international links
- Eurostar Ski Train – London to the Alps (seasonal)
- EuroNight (EN) – Munich–Budapest, Vienna–Prague, Zurich–Zagreb
- Trenhotel – Madrid to Lisbon and beyond
UK Night Trains: Travel Overnight Across the Country
The UK’s most prominent night train is the Caledonian Sleeper, connecting London to cities across Scotland. Whether you're visiting the historic streets of Edinburgh or the dramatic Highlands, sleeper trains are a comfortable, scenic way to travel overnight from the capital.
Popular Sleeper Train Routes in the UK
Sleeper Train from London: Where Can You Go?
Hop on a sleeper train from London and wake up somewhere entirely new. Whether you're heading north to the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands or seeking a weekend escape in a historic city, overnight trains from London make travel part of the adventure. The iconic Caledonian Sleeper whisks you away in comfort, offering routes that link the capital with stunning destinations across the UK. No airport stress, no early alarms. Just relax, sleep, and arrive refreshed.
What’s the Difference Between a Couchette and a Sleeper?
When booking a night train, you’ll likely see two main options: couchettes and sleeper cabins. Here’s a simple side-by-side comparison to help you choose what’s best for your journey:
| Feature | Couchette | Sleeper Cabin |
|---|---|---|
| Privacy Level | Shared cabin (4–6 passengers) | Private or 2–berth options available |
| Bed Type | Bunk-style beds with shared linens | Real beds with bedding, often thicker mattress |
| Toiletries/Sink | No personal facilities | Some cabins have private sink or en-suite |
| Price | More budget-friendly | Higher cost, more comfort |
| Best For | Budget travelers, groups, backpackers | Families, couples, business travelers |
Scandinavian Sleeper Trains
Explore the Nordic landscapes while you sleep, with extensive overnight rail services running across Sweden and into Norway, Denmark, and beyond.
Popular Sleeper Train Routes in Sweden
Night Trains in the US
Operated by Amtrak, night trains in the US are ideal for covering vast distances while saving on a night’s accommodation. Whether you're traveling along the East Coast or across the country, there are scenic and comfortable sleeper services available.
Popular Sleeper Train Routes in the US
New York to Miami
New York to New Orleans
Chicago to New York
Los Angeles to Chicago
San Francisco to Seattle
Boston to Chicago
Washington DC to Atlanta
Portland to Los Angeles
Seattle to Los Angeles
Denver to Salt Lake City
Sleeper Train Travel Tips
Traveling by sleeper train is one of the most relaxing and efficient ways to cover long distances, especially if you’re prepared. These tips will help you get the best experience out of your journey:
- Dress for rest: Wear soft, loose-fitting clothes or even pajamas for maximum comfort.
- Block out the world: Bring earplugs and an eye mask to help you sleep soundly through the night.
- Entertainment essentials: Download audiobooks, podcasts, or movies ahead of time in case Wi-Fi is unavailable.
- Know before you go: Not all trains offer the same amenities—check ahead for things like private cabins, meals, or showers.
FAQ: Sleeper Trains
You can book your sleeper train directly through the Omio app or website.
Simply search for your route and travel date, and Omio will show you all available sleeper train options. Once booked, your tickets are stored safely on your phone for easy access.
No, you don't need to print your ticket for most sleeper trains.
Mobile tickets are accepted on the majority of European and UK night train services. If you prefer, you can also print your ticket from home.
Many night trains in Europe allow pets, but rules vary by train operator.
Make sure to:
- Check whether pets are allowed on the specific route
- Follow rules about size, carrier requirements, or ticketing for animals
- Reserve a private compartment if required for pet travel
Some sleeper trains offer Wi-Fi, but it’s not guaranteed across all routes.
If internet access is important:
- Check the train operator’s website before travel
- Bring your own mobile hotspot or download content beforehand
Yes, many train companies offer reduced fares or free tickets for children.
- Discount eligibility depends on the child’s age and the operator
- Some routes allow infants under 4 to travel free without a seat
- Always check fare rules before booking
Most modern sleeper trains offer wheelchair-accessible cabins and assistance services.
Before you travel:
- Contact the train provider directly to reserve accessible space
- Ask about station assistance and onboard facilities
Many sleeper trains in Europe and the UK allow bikes, but conditions apply.
- You may need to book a bike space or use a bike bag
- Bike policies vary widely, so check with the operator in advance
Often, yes. Sleeper trains help you save on both transport and accommodation costs.
- Booking early usually gets the best fares
- You avoid the cost of a hotel room by sleeping on the train
- It’s also a low-stress and scenic alternative to flying
Ready to ride the rails? Book your sleeper train journey today on Omio and travel smarter, greener and more comfortably.