What to expect: sleeper train 101

Imagine falling asleep in one country and waking up in another. Often seen as a fanciful way to travel, the reserve of fictional characters from murder mysteries or pastel-hued indie movies, sleeper trains and overnight ferries are a fun and functional way to travel huge distances as you dream – and they save the cost of a night of accommodation elsewhere.

When it’s time to book your first overnight journey, you’ll probably have a few questions. Our experts at Byway have published this guide to sleeper trains (and overnight ferries) to answer some of the most common questions we get asked.

James Hill

What to expect on a sleeper train or ferry

Do sleeper trains/ferries still exist?

Yes, sleeper trains are still very much in existence. While some regions and countries have reduced or discontinued certain sleeper services in recent years, many places around the world continue to operate and invest in sleeper train services. In fact, there has been a renewed interest in sleeper trains as a sustainable and comfortable alternative to air travel for medium to long-distance journeys. Several countries, particularly in Europe, maintain and have even expanded their sleeper train networks to meet the demand for overnight travel with comfortable accommodation. Meanwhile, sleeper ferry operators have routes from the UK to Europe and across the rest of the continent, whether that’s to Mediterranean islands or the Scandinavian countries.

What should you expect on a sleeper train/ferry?

Every journey is slightly different but for the most part, sleeper trains feel a lot like regular trains but with long corridors and doors to comfortable shared or private cabins – these could be one-, two-, three- or four-berth cabins with bunk beds that fold away to give you a sitting room experience or double beds for those who like a little extra room. Some European trains have couchette carriages which offer basic padded bunk beds in an open plan compartment, and some sleeper trains have buffet cars with regional menus and a bar that stays open late. Meanwhile, overnight ferries are often like mini cruises, with bars, restaurants, shops and even cinemas on board. Ferry cabins differ between inside (no window), outside (with a sea view) or commodore (very fancy). Although it is sometimes possible to reserve a seat and not a cabin for overnight journeys on trains and ferries, this is not very comfortable and is not booked as part of a Byway trip.

Marjike Cortenbach

What room will Byway book for me?

We book standard private cabins on overnight journeys. Depending on availability, that may be a whole private couchette (which usually has four to six berths) or it will be a private 1-, 2-, or 3-berth cabin. On sleeper trains, we will book a cabin with shared toilet facilities, but if you’d like to upgrade to a cabin with a toilet and/or shower let us know in advance and we can check if this is available on your route and book it for the price of the upgrade. On a sleeper ferry, all cabins have private toilet facilities and we always try to book an outside cabin. We don’t usually book meals on sleeper ferries, so let us know if that’s something you want to include on your journey.

For sleeper trains, we don’t book any meals as standard and where there is a dining car or meals available, you can purchase these on the train. On quite a few European sleeper trains, there is a light breakfast included and we usually recommend taking a picnic along.

Are sleeper trains/ferries included with Interrail or Eurail passes?

Most sleeper trains are covered by Interrail and Eurail passes, but require reservations at an additional cost. The price depends entirely on the train operator and for many sleeper trains that offer different cabin classes, the type of cabin you’re in will depend on the class of your Interrail or Eurail pass. Operators often have a limited amount of Interrail or Eurail reservations on sale, and these can sell out. We will book sleeper trains with Interrail or Eurail where it is included and the rates are available, but will sometimes book point to point tickets for these journeys. For sleeper ferries, they are not usually included with your Interrail/Eurail pass, so these are booked separately.

Are sleeper trains/ferries safe?

Yes, sleeper trains are considered safe, and they have been a popular and secure mode of transport for many years. Train travel, including sleeper trains, is subject to strict safety regulations and standards enforced by transportation authorities. Sleeper trains provide private or shared compartments with secure locking systems and most train services have onboard staff, including train attendants, who are trained to handle emergencies and ensure passenger safety. Overnight ferries also have strict safety protocols, alongside private cabins to ensure you have a safe journey.

Adrienne Salmon

Are sleeper trains/ferries noisy?

Overnight journeys aren’t for everyone and they can be noisy at times. Light sleepers beware, there may be noise from your fellow travellers as they walk through the carriages to the bathroom, or chat on the phone. There’s the inescapable noise of the train moving along the tracks, although this can also be an aid to lull you to sleep. Then there might be the more disruptive noises, such as carriages attached and detached in the middle of the night, crashing waves as you cross the North Sea, and trains that are transferred onto ferries as you sleep. However, if you’re up for a truly unique way to travel then hunker down because despite the noise, you’re guaranteed to enjoy changing landscapes as you roll through the country or across the sea.

Are sleeper trains/ferries comfortable?

Yes, sleeper trains are designed with passenger comfort in mind and they offer a relaxing travel experience. Sleeper compartments typically provide comfortable beds, bedding, and sometimes private toilets, depending on the cabin class. Passengers have the option to rest, sleep, or simply enjoy the scenic views during their journey. While the level of comfort can vary depending on the train service, with many offering limited frills and compact compartments, many travellers love the unique experience of sleeping on a train. Overnight ferries can be very comfortable and somewhat luxurious, like little cruise ships in their own right, with entertainment, a variety of restaurants and comfy cabins. However, there are some that have limited frills, but are still comfortable for an overnight journey.

Are sleeper trains/ferries expensive?

The cost of sleeper trains and ferries varies depending on the route, class of accommodation and on-board amenities. Generally, sleeper train tickets can be more expensive than standard seats due to the added comfort and privacy they provide. However, using an Interrail or Eurail pass, choosing a less popular route or opting for a non-ensuite cabin, can all make sleeper train travel more affordable. And don’t forget, you’re saving on overnight accommodation too.

James Hill

Which sleeper train/ferry is the best?

This really depends on what you’re looking for from your sleeper journey, alongside personal preferences, routes and budget. Several European sleeper trains are renowned for their opulent luxury and scenic routes, including The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and the Belmond Royal Scotsman, but these are “cruise” trains. At Byway, some of our top sleeper train holidays include the overnight journey to Sicily (where your train boards a boat), the NightJet service to Venice and the Night Riviera to Cornwall. The Caledonian Sleeper between London and Fort William is another firm UK favourite, the train is called the Deerstalker and offers stunning West Highlands mountain and moorland views, as well as regional food and drink (including vegan options). For overnight ferry journeys, we love the routes from the UK that feel like cruise ships, such as Harwich to Hoek van Holland or Newcastle to Amsterdam. The ferries from Germany to the Scandinavian countries are also a wonderful experience with plenty of amenities to enjoy as you sail. On the other hand, some in the Mediterranean are shorter routes, meaning less time to sleep but more time in your destination.

So, what’s the verdict on sleeper trains/ferries?

Be prepared, sleeper trains can be noisy and when you step off that 12-hour ferry, you might suffer from some wobbliness (known as mal de debarquement). Pack your earplugs, a deck of cards and some snacks (if your train doesn’t have dining facilities), and enjoy the journey.

Whether you want to get to your destination as quickly as possible or soak up every moment of your trip, travelling overnight is always an adventure and adds an extra level of wonder to any holiday.

If you’d like to read more about sleeper trains and ferries, visit our 9 of the best sleeper trains and ferries in Europe blog.