Why I’m Now a Convert to Overnight Train Travel in Europe
One of the best parts about traveling in Europe is the ease of hopping between countries in a single trip. While flying is often the fastest option, the hassle of airport security, baggage lugging, and inevitable delays can make it more time-consuming than simply opting for the continent’s ultra-efficient rail system.
That’s exactly where Rail Europe came into the picture for me. In mid-February, I found myself in Vienna, covering the reimagined Imperial Riding School, Autograph Collection—an equestrian school turned boutique hotel—for an assignment (as one does). The next leg of my journey? Meeting friends in Switzerland. My instinct was to check flights between Vienna and Zurich, only to find prices hovering between 500 and 700 USD, with layovers that turned a 1-hour, 20-minute flight into a grueling 7+ hour ordeal.
I needed to be at the Zurich Airport by 10 a.m. sharp on Wednesday, so I turned to Rail Europe’s vast network, which spans 25,000 destinations across Europe. The best option? Austrian Federal Railway’s ÖBB NightJet from Vienna’s Hauptbahnhof to Zurich’s Central Station. The only catch: it was an overnight train. As a California native, I wasn’t exactly accustomed to overnight rail journeys—let alone as a solo traveler.
Still, the logistics made sense: a 9:40 p.m. departure on Tuesday and an 8:30 a.m. arrival in Zurich, all for a much more reasonable 341 euros (372 USD) in Comfort class. It was a no-brainer. And now? I might just be overnight train travel’s newest devotee.
What’s the ÖBB NightJet Train Car Like?
Let’s be clear—this isn’t the Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, but that’s not what you’re paying for here. My biggest mistake? Checking a bag. (A rookie move when country-hopping, but ski gear doesn’t exactly pack small.) The cabins are compact but cleverly designed: a twin-sized bed, a small half-bath setup (complete with a sink and medicine cabinet), and a two-part storage system for personal belongings. There’s enough space to stow a carry-on backpack or purse under the bed, and if you’re traveling with a friend, the top bunk unfolds to create a snug sleeping space for two.
As for sleep quality? If you’re a light sleeper, you won’t be getting Six-Senses-level rest, but the essentials are there: a cozy comforter, a sleeping mask, earplugs, slippers, and a dim reading light built into the wall. Yes, you’ll hear some occasional rustling—it’s a moving train, after all—but if you lean into the experience, throw on a white noise machine (or a good playlist), and let yourself unwind, you’ll get some decent shut-eye.
The real highlight? The view.
There’s something cinematic about watching the European countryside roll past your window as the sun rises. For me, waking up to Swiss villages tucked between soaring mountain peaks was nothing short of breathtaking. The journey ends on a high note with a complimentary breakfast, where staff delivers your choice of coffee, tea, pastries, ham, and fresh bread—a solid start to the day.
The Verdict on Overnight Train Travel
For a scenic, stress-free alternative to flying, Europe’s rail network is unmatched. Rail Europe’s extensive routes—and seamless booking experience—make it easier than ever to fall asleep in Italy and wake up in France—or, in my case, drift off in Austria and greet the day in Switzerland.
