Night trains connect Switzerland directly to several European cities. They allow you to depart in the evening and arrive in the city centre in the morning, but they require more planning ahead than a domestic train.
Nightjet and EuroNight: what’s the difference?
Nightjet services are operated with ÖBB as part of rail partnerships. EuroNight covers other night services operated with partner networks. From Switzerland, the direct destinations mentioned by SBB include Berlin, Hamburg, Vienna, Graz, Amsterdam, Prague, Budapest, Ljubljana and Zagreb, depending on the service and the period.
Seat, couchette or sleeper
- Seat: a simple option, but limited comfort for a full night.
- Couchette: a compromise between budget, rest and shared space.
- Sleeper: more comfortable sleeping and more privacy.
- Private compartment: useful for a family or travellers who want to limit sharing.
Book early enough
Reservation is essential, and the most sought-after categories can sell out quickly. Check the travellers’ names, the exact stations, the arrival date and the compartment composition. A night crosses two dates: this is a classic source of error.
Connections and safety margin
If you are connecting to the night train from Geneva, Lausanne or another city, choose a sufficiently long connection. A missed night departure can be difficult to replace.
Frequently asked questions
Is a reservation mandatory?
Night trains require a reservation corresponding to the chosen category.
Can you take a bicycle?
This depends on the route and the carriage used. A bicycle ticket and a reservation may be required.
Which date should you select for a departure after midnight?
The date corresponds to the actual time of departure. Check carefully the day shown in the timetable and on the ticket.
Sources: SBB — Nightjet · SBB — EuroNight.
The essentials at a glance
Reservation required
On a night train, the seat is always assigned to a specific person. There are three categories: reclining seat, couchette in a shared compartment, and sleeping car for a private cabin. The price depends on the category and occupancy.
What is included depending on the category
Couchettes and sleeping cars include sheets and a blanket; some cars have showers and washbasins. Breakfast is sometimes included, sometimes available for purchase on board.
Preparing for the journey
- Choose a convenient departure station: not every city is served every night.
- Check the operating days: many night trains do not run every day.
- Anticipate changes in the middle of the night, which are harder to manage than during the day.
Luggage and checks
Luggage space is limited in the compartments. Checks may take place at the station before boarding. Keep your ticket and reservation accessible offline.