Night trains

Travel overnight with InterRail

Night trains carry you over long distances while you are sleeping. An example: you can board the CityNightline in Copenhagen in the early evening. The next morning you will arrive in the heart of Amsterdam, ready to explore the city!

Night train reservations

Reservations are required for night trains. InterRail Pass holders need to pay a supplement for the sleeping accommodation. Overview of reservation fees for popular night trains

We recommended to reserve night trains as early as possible. You can make reservations at larger stations or through travel agents. Sometimes you can purchase available places directly on-board from the train crew.

International night trains in Europe are often called Euronight (EN) or CityNightLine (CNL). Some night trains are known as 'hotel trains', because they provide a higher level of service (at a higher price).

Sleeping accommodation

If you’re on a budget, choose a couchette or a seat. Couchettes have four to six sleeping places, usually seats that can be transformed into beds. A sheet, blanket and pillow are provided. Reclining seats (or 'sleeperettes') are available only on selected trains.

If you appreciate comfort and privacy, reserve a sleeping cabin with beds for 2-3 passengers. These compartments usually have a wash basin. Toilet and shower facilities can be found down the corridor. First class cabins often have a private toilet and shower.

Most night trains have bar and restaurant cars. Breakfast is often included in the supplement.

It is common practice in night trains that you hand over your InterRail Pass and passport to the train staff. You get them back in the morning!


Video: What does a night train look like?

Tip: 7 pm rule

A good tip to know if you have an InterRail Pass with a flexible validity is the '7 pm rule'. If you board a direct overnight train that departs after 7pm and arrives after 4am, then only the day of arrival is counted as a travel day. Read more about travel days