Night Trains in Europe: Making reservations

Night trains take you over large distances during the night. There are several options for comfortable traveling. These options may differ per train type. Reservations are usually compulsory.

The following types exist:

Sleepers

Sleepers are separate compartments, with 1, 2 or 3 beds. Often, these compartments have separate berths for men and women, unless the compartment is reserved by a couple or a family. 

Sleepers for 1 person called "special" or "single" are available for holders of a 1st-class Eurail Pass.
Sleeper for 1 person

Compartments for two persons, called "Double" or "T2/Tourist 2" are available for all holders of a 1st class Eurail Pass. On some trains Tourist compartments are available for 2nd class Passes holders also.  |
Sleepers for 2 persons - T2

Triple compartments, called "T3/ Tourist 3" are available for all Eurail Pass holders.
Couchette Tourist T3

Couchette cars

Couchette cars offer standard sleeping accommodation. They offer a place to lie down with a pillow, a blanket and a sheet. There are couchette cars with compartments for 4 persons or for 6 persons. Washrooms and toilets are located at the end of each car.
Couchettes are available for 1st and 2nd class Pass holders.

Couchette for 4 persons 
Couchette for 4 persons

 Couchette for 6 persons
Couchette for 6 persons

Sleeperettes

In some night trains 'sleeperettes' (reclining seats) are available.

Example image of sleeperettes

Hotel Trains

  • more comfortable than regular night trains
  • 1, 2 or more beds per compartment
  • breakfast included

Overview of hotel trains

Supplements and reservation fees

The costs for a reservation are not included in a Eurail Pass and may vary widely depending on the country, type of train, as well as the date of purchase and/or travel.