On May 25, 2023 came a long-awaited launch in the European train world (or at least, long-awaited by me). The European Sleeper started running for the first time between Brussels and Berlin, including stopovers at several places in the Netherlands. So besides an interesting new connection, which was very welcome in the new offering, there is also a new player in the field of night train in Europe. European Sleeper is an independent company founded by Chris Engelsman and Elmer van Buuren, who are determined to enrich the European train network with their night trains.

Revival of a forgotten travel classic

In recent decades, the night train largely disappeared in Europe. Thanks to the development of high-speed trains, there were faster alternatives that ran during the day and transported passengers from A to B more quickly. Night trains, aren’t allowed to run too fast, and moreover, the trains weren’t suitable for that.

In addition, budget flights made a breakthrough, allowing travellers to cover long distances even faster for a fraction of the price. The night train in Europe drew the short straw and slowly disappeared from the scene. Until recent years, that is.

However, with growing concerns about climate change and the search for more sustainable travel options, there has been a renewed interest in night trains. While Germany in 2016 removed its last night trains from the rails, the Austrian train operator Öbb saw an opportunity to take them over and expand their “Nightjet” network. Since then, several other countries have followed suit, and now there is a whole new player in the field.

The new connection

The European Sleeper departs from Brussels, three times a week, around 7:22 PM. Travelling through the night via Antwerp, Rotterdam and Amsterdam, the train makes stops in Deventer and Bad Bentheim, before arriving in Berlin the next morning around 6:48 AM.

Elger van der Meer, co-founder of European Sleeper, explains: “We offer travelers the opportunity to travel comfortably and sustainably. You board in the evening and wake up the next morning right in the heart of a new city, without wasting any time.”

Travel options for every budget

The European Sleeper offers a variety of accommodation options:

• Seating: From €49 per person. This is the most affordable option, ideal for budget travellers or those who can sleep anywhere, even in a seat.
• Couchettes: From €79 per person for a bed in a shared compartment with 6 beds. Compartments with 4 beds are available from €99 per person. This option is ideal for groups or travellers who appreciate social interaction.
• Private Sleeping Compartments: Private compartments start at €159 per person for a two-person compartment. A single-person compartment is available from €199. This option offers maximum privacy and comfort for travellers who want to arrive well-rested.

Chris Engelsman, co-initiator, explains: “We strive to offer a suitable option for every traveler and every budget. Whether you’re looking for an affordable trip or want to travel in luxury, the European Sleeper has something for everyone.”

Future perspective

While the focus is currently on the successful operation of the Brussels-Amsterdam-Berlin route, European Sleeper is already cautiously looking towards the future. They are considering increasing the frequency and adding new destinations, depending on the success of this initial line.

The launch of European Sleeper fits into a broader trend of night trains in Europe. Various countries and railway companies are reconsidering the role of night trains in their networks. Will night trains once again play a more important role in Europe, making it possible to travel comfortably and sustainably across the continent? Time will tell.