Cramped but Cosy: Comparing Europe’s Night Trains for Sleeping Comfort

As travelers increasingly seek alternatives to the discomforts of long-haul flights, Europe’s night trains offer a promising solution. With the promise of proper beds and a smaller environmental footprint, these trains seem ideally suited for a peaceful night’s sleep. But how do these services actually measure up in terms of comfort and sleep quality? From the opulent Venice Simplon Orient Express to the more modest European Sleeper, we delve into traveler reviews to discover which trains best facilitate a restful night.

The Venice Simplon Orient Express: Luxury on Rails

The Venice Simplon Orient Express epitomizes luxury train travel with its glowing reviews on TripAdvisor, where it scores an impressive number of five-star ratings. Passengers celebrate the train for its champagne reception, lavish cabins, and attentive service. The beds are described as incredibly comfortable, adorned with crisp linen, enhancing the vintage charm and luxury of the experience. However, the cabins are noted for their compact size, a small concession for the train’s historical allure. For those seeking more space, upgrading to a grand suite offers a lounge area and an elegant marble ensuite bathroom, rounding out a premium travel experience.

The Caledonian Sleeper: Quaint but Quirky

The Caledonian Sleeper, often referred to as a ‘hotel on wheels,’ takes passengers from London to various destinations in Scotland, boasting scenic views along the way. Despite its charming concept, reviews suggest that space is quite limited, akin to a large closet. The design is highly efficient, making the most of every inch, which travelers describe as cosy. Although occasional jolts may disturb sleep, the overall ambiance provides a comforting reminder of the journey’s progress. However, amenities like WiFi and breakfast may fall short of expectations, and the beds, while comfortable, are part of a package that’s best enjoyed as a unique experience rather than a regular travel option.

The European Sleeper: A Fun, No-Frills Journey

The European Sleeper extends through various major cities and offers a no-frills but enjoyable experience. The train’s vintage carriages, each from different eras and nations, add a unique, albeit slightly mismatched, charm to the journey. Reviewers frequently mention the train’s rattling and the excessive warmth, with some carriages lacking operational toilets. Despite these drawbacks, the overall sentiment is positive, with many travelers appreciating the adventure over the comfort, suggesting that with the right expectations—and perhaps some earplugs and an eye mask—the European Sleeper can still be a delightful choice.

ÖBB Nightjet: Functional but Flawed

Operating across an extensive network in Europe, the ÖBB Nightjet aims to provide practical overnight travel options. However, traveler feedback indicates that the train often falls short of expectations. Issues with maintenance such as non-functional air conditioning, locked or poorly maintained communal toilets, and substandard bedding mar the experience. While some passengers manage to find comfort enough for sleep, the overall experience is frequently marred by operational oversights, leading to mixed reviews and dissatisfaction especially concerning service reliability and refund policies.