By Stuart Kerr, Travel Correspondent
Published: 13/08/2025 | Updated: 13/08/2025
Contact: editor@holidaymate.com | About the Author
A Renaissance on Rails
Once a nostalgic relic of European travel, the night train is back in the limelight in 2025, offering travellers a blend of romance, sustainability, and practicality. Routes that were once abandoned are being revived, connecting capitals and cultural hubs with overnight comfort. The latest addition—the 15-hour journey from Brussels to Prague—offers stops in Antwerp, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Dresden, combining efficiency with scenic variety. According to European Sleeper, this isn’t just a revival; it’s a reinvention with modern amenities and competitive pricing.
Why Night Trains Are Back in Fashion
Rising airfares, growing environmental awareness, and the hassle of airport queues have driven many to rediscover train travel. As The Guardian points out, travellers appreciate the ability to sleep through the night and wake up in a new city—without the carbon guilt of flying. For families, the lure is even stronger, with offers like European Sleeper’s €10 August fare for children making it a cost-effective option.
Onboard Comforts and Experiences
Forget the cramped couchettes of the past. Modern night trains now offer private en-suite cabins, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and improved dining options. The Times reports that some services even feature themed carriages and onboard entertainment, transforming the journey into part of the holiday experience. Whether you choose a budget bunk or a deluxe suite, the emphasis is on making overnight travel relaxing and enjoyable.
Sustainability in Motion
With rail travel producing up to 90% fewer emissions than flying, night trains are a clear winner for eco-conscious travellers. Our own Train vs Plane: Best Way to Travel article explores how sleeper services not only cut carbon but also replace at least one night’s hotel stay—making them doubly economical.
The Rise of Alternative Routes
Europe’s rail revival isn’t limited to big-name capitals. Regional and seasonal services are popping up, offering travellers new ways to explore. The Gen Z’s ‘Hush Trips’ and Night Train Revival feature on Holidaymate.com highlights how younger travellers are seeking out less publicised connections, often combining work, leisure, and budget-friendly accommodation in one trip.
Booking Smart: Tips for Securing the Best Deals
As demand grows, securing the right ticket at the right price takes planning. Rail Europe suggests booking at least two months in advance for popular summer routes. Flexible travellers can take advantage of last-minute deals, while families should look for multi-berth cabins that offer privacy without a premium price tag.
The Social Side of Sleeper Travel
Beyond the cost and comfort, night trains offer a social experience hard to match in air travel. Shared dining cars and communal compartments foster conversations with fellow travellers, often leading to tips on hidden gems at your destination. CNN Traveller’s coverage of sleeper train culture shows how these journeys are becoming as much about connection as they are about transportation.
A Long-Term Shift in European Tourism
With EU support for expanding cross-border rail, the night train revival is expected to accelerate over the next decade. The Travel Trends 2025 report predicts that more mid-distance flight routes will face competition from new sleeper services, especially as energy prices and climate policies reshape travel behaviour.
Conclusion
The return of the night train is more than a passing fad—it’s a sign of changing values in European travel. For those seeking a greener footprint, richer travel experiences, and a touch of old-world charm, the rails are once again the road to adventure.
About the Author
Stuart Kerr writes about travel, tourism, and mobility across Europe for Holidaymate.com. You can reach him at editor@holidaymate.com and read more of his work here.
