A Shift in the Night Train Landscape
In a move that brings hope to night train enthusiasts, European Sleeper is set to launch a new sleeper service from Paris to Berlin starting March 26, 2026. This development follows the recent announcement by the Austrian state operator ÖBB that it will discontinue its Nightjet services between Paris and Berlin, effective December 14, 2023. The axing of these routes has raised concerns about the future of sleeper trains in Europe, especially as subsidies in France have come to an end.
The New European Sleeper Service
European Sleeper aims to fill the gap left by Nightjet with a more robust offering. Here are some details you need to know about this exciting new service:
- Departure Days: The train will operate three times a week, with departures from Paris Gare du Nord on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
- Return Service: From Berlin Hauptbahnhof and Ostbahnhof, trains will depart on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
- Route Details: European Sleeper will run its trains via Brussels, diverging from the former Nightjet's route through Strasbourg and other cities. Exact timings and route specifics are still being confirmed.
Co-founder Chris Engelsman reflected optimism about the change. "I think Nightjet’s existing market will certainly be interested in travelling on European Sleeper,” he stated. The new service could accommodate approximately 600-700 passengers, providing ample capacity compared to the existing 12-coach Nightjet, which splits its service between destinations.
The Impact of the Change
This development has sparked joy among night train advocates, notably the Oui au train de nuit! campaign group. They successfully rallied 91,000 signatures to support the revival of sleeper trains and even organized a unique protest at Paris Gare de l'Est, bringing pajamas to the platforms.
Nicolas Forien, spokesperson for the campaign, described this transition as "a partial victory" in the fight for more sustainable travel options. As the demand for eco-friendly transportation grows, European Sleeper aims to capitalize on the night train's renaissance by offering a comfortable and efficient travel alternative.
Riding with Nostalgia
Founded in the Netherlands, European Sleeper made its debut with a route from Berlin to Brussels in May 2023 and has since extended its services to Dresden and Prague. Despite facing challenges such as technical issues and inconsistent scheduling, the company has already transported over 230,000 passengers and continues to thrive in the sleeper train market.
The coaches for this new route will be rented from Germany and manufactured in the 1990s, offering an experience reminiscent of classic travel but updated for modern comfort. As Engelsman notes, “They are quite similar to the comfort level on the Nightjet.”
Join the Night Train Revolution
The revival of sleeper trains in Europe provides a unique blend of nostalgia, adventure, and responsibility. With the launch of European Sleeper’s new service, travelers can expect an extraordinary experience once again. If you’re looking forward to experiencing the joy of overnight travel through the heart of Europe while minimizing your carbon footprint, stay tuned for more updates as we approach the launch date.
For more information about European Sleeper and their upcoming route, visit their official website [here](https://europeansleeper.com) and stay connected with the latest developments.
Are you ready to embark on this exciting journey?
Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to mark your calendars for March 26, 2026!
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Image Credit: theguardian.com
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