NL
The new generation of Nightjet trains from Siemens marks a clear step forward in night train travel. The trains feature modern sleeping areas, private bathroom facilities in deluxe class and wheelchair-accessible compartments. More and more travellers are consciously choosing the train as a fully-fledged alternative to flying. Routes such as Hamburg–Vienna now run with these new carriages, complete with à la carte breakfast and free sparkling wine in the higher classes. Discover exactly what these trains have to offer.
Overnight rail travel is not a new concept. The new Nightjet generation from ÖBB, however, fundamentally changes the experience. Classic night trains (Nightjet & European night trains) were mainly functional. The new generation stands for real sleep quality and noticeably more privacy. The trains consist of seven different carriages, each with its own function and comfort level.
What makes the new trains different
The renewal goes further than just the design. The Siemens trains are equipped with modern kitchens on board (where meals are prepared and hot drinks are served), a control display in all compartments and significantly improved acoustics. The materials are lighter, which contributes to a quieter ride. The train offers several comfort categories. You can choose exactly what suits your budget and travel needs.
Since May 2025, the new carriages have been running on routes such as Amsterdam–Vienna and Amsterdam–Innsbruck. Routes like Hamburg–Vienna also use this modern generation. This means that as a traveller from the Netherlands you have direct access to this improved service.
‘ The mini cabin is one of the most popular options, because it offers private comfort without the price of a fully private compartment. ’
How comfortable are the new Nightjet sleepers
The sleeping compartments in the new Nightjet are divided into several categories. The standard Comfort sleeping compartment has fixed beds. It offers a quiet, enclosed space. You share this compartment with up to three other travellers, unless you book it for private use.
For those who want more privacy, there is the mini cabin. This is a compact individual sleeping space. The mini cabin is specially designed for solo travellers. You get your own bed, controls and a basic breakfast (with bread, spreads, yoghurt and a hot drink) included. The mini cabin is one of the most in-demand options, because it offers private comfort without the price of a fully private compartment.
Travellers report that the beds are firm but comfortable. The level of insulation is noticeably better than in older trains. You hear less noise from neighbours or from the track. The climate control works well and via the control display you can adjust lighting, temperature and wake-up function.
What facilities does a deluxe Nightjet compartment have
The Comfort Plus sleeping cabins offer more space and privacy than the standard Comfort compartment. The Deluxe sleeping cabins form the top of the range. Here you get your own toilet and shower in your compartment. That means you do not have to go out into the corridor at night and you can arrive feeling refreshed.
The Deluxe compartments are more spacious than the standard sleeping compartments. You have more room to move, better storage space for luggage and a higher level of finish. Passengers in this class receive a welcome drink on departure, often sparkling wine. Breakfast is put together à la carte and served directly in your compartment.
Other facilities in Deluxe class:
- Quality bedding with extra pillows
- Convenient power sockets and USB connections
- Adjustable reading lights
- Free Wi‑Fi on most trains
- Access to service desk staff for questions during your journey
The Deluxe option is particularly interesting if you are making a longer journey and want to arrive well rested. For an overnight trip from Amsterdam to Vienna you pay more, but in return you get a fully private experience with bathroom facilities on board.
Are wheelchair-accessible night trains available
Yes. The new Nightjet trains have a special multifunctional compartment that is designed for travellers with a wheelchair or reduced mobility. This compartment is wheelchair accessible and has an adapted toilet. There is space for an accompanying person and the layout takes manoeuvring space into account.
According to ÖBB’s passenger information, travelling with a serious disability is in many cases free of charge. This applies to the person with the disability, not automatically to any companion. It is sensible to contact customer services in advance to discuss the details of your journey and arrange any assistance for boarding and alighting.
Accessibility varies from station to station. Not all platforms in Europe are equally accessible. So also check with your departure and arrival stations which facilities are available.
‘ Do not expect sleep comfort here, but you will have a safe, heated place to spend the night. ’
Other comfort categories on the new Nightjet
In addition to sleeping compartments, the train also offers couchettes and seats. The couchette is an affordable middle option. You lie in a shared compartment with up to six beds. There are no separate controls or luxury finishes, but you can lie down and sleep.
The seated carriage is the cheapest way to travel. You pay considerably less than for a couchette or sleeping compartment. You sit all night, but the seats are adjustable. This category is suitable for shorter journeys or for travellers who are mainly price-conscious. Do not expect sleep comfort here, but you will have a safe, heated place to spend the night.
Breakfast and catering on board
Breakfast is included in most categories, but the quality varies. In the mini cabin you get a basic breakfast with bread, spreads, yoghurt and a hot drink. In the Comfort sleeping compartments you can choose from a similar selection.
In First and Deluxe classes you put your own breakfast together. You receive a menu and can choose from various types of bread, eggs, fresh fruit, coffee and tea. Breakfast is served in your compartment at an agreed time.
In addition, there is a service counter (a staffed counter on the train). There you can order snacks, drinks and light meals during the journey. The range includes hot soup, sandwiches, salads and wine. Payment can be made in cash or by card.
Where do the new Nightjet trains run
The new trains are in service on several major routes across Europe. The Amsterdam–Vienna connection via Nuremberg has been running with the new carriages since May 2025. Routes such as Hamburg–Vienna, Vienna–Zurich and Munich–Rome are also increasingly using the renewed fleet.
ÖBB is gradually expanding the network. Not all Nightjet routes are already operated with the new trains. So when booking, check which type of train runs on your route. This is usually shown during the booking process or on the ÖBB website.
‘ Booking early also often gives you access to cheaper fares. ’
Practical tips for your booking
Book in good time, especially for the mini cabins and Deluxe compartments. These categories are popular. They sell out quickly, particularly in the high season and around school holidays. Booking early also often gives you access to cheaper fares.
Opt for a private compartment if you are travelling with two to four people. Then you only share the space with your travel companions and have full control over your environment. For solo travellers who value privacy, the mini cabin is the best choice.
Take earplugs or headphones with you, even in the higher classes. Although the new trains are quieter, there can always be noise from neighbours, doors or the track. A sleep mask can also help, especially if you are sensitive to light.
Check whether your luggage will fit in your compartment. In the mini cabin there is limited storage space. Large suitcases can sometimes be awkward. There is more space in the larger sleeping compartments, but even there the same applies: keep it practical.
Where to find more travel information
The new Nightjet trains make overnight train travel more attractive to a wide audience. Whether you choose a budget option or maximum comfort, the experience is noticeably improved compared with older generations. On the Traveler Tips website you will find much more information about rail travel, routes across Europe, practical tips for the journey and handy checklists to help you prepare. Discover what is possible and plan your next trip with confidence.
Frequently asked questions
The new generation of Nightjet trains offers four main options: standard seats, couchettes, mini cabins for one person and sleeping cars in Comfort and Comfort Plus/Deluxe. Compared with earlier models, the mini cabins and modern sleeping cars in particular are a clear step forward in privacy, as you have a well‑sealed private space as a solo traveller or group. The Comfort Plus/Deluxe cabins also have a private toilet and shower, which were rarely or never available in the older carriages. The design and controls (including via control displays) are also more modern and more focused on individual comfort than in the classic Nightjet sets.
The new Nightjet trains offer various comfort levels including mini cabins, couchettes and sleeping cars, with the highest categories having their own toilet and shower. All compartments feature a modern control display and there are service kitchens on board for meals, snacks and drinks, often including (à la carte) breakfast service in the higher classes. These facilities, together with more privacy options such as private compartments, are designed to make the journey more comfortable. The combination of modern design, bathroom facilities in the top categories and on-board catering thus contributes to a comfortable and ‘smart’ travel experience.
On the new Nightjet trains, each compartment has limited luggage space, such as racks and areas above or below the beds/seats for suitcases and bags. Large suitcases can usually be placed in the luggage racks in the corridor or near the entrance of the carriage. For valuables, the newer sleeping cabins and mini cabins often have lockable doors and sometimes small (lockable) storage compartments, but no full‑size safe. It therefore remains advisable to keep valuables close to you or in a well‑closed bag stored in your compartment.
Yes, the new Nightjet trains have several innovative features that enhance the travel experience. In the compartments there is a modern control display for lighting, climate and service, which improves ease of use and comfort. In addition, the mini cabins and Comfort/Deluxe sleeping cars with their own shower and toilet offer extra privacy and peace, which improves the overall experience of the journey. However, the available information does not mention any specific entertainment options or special viewing opportunities.
The new Nightjet trains broadly offer five comfort classes: seat, couchette, mini cabin, Comfort sleeper and Comfort Plus/Deluxe sleeper. The seat is the cheapest and offers the least privacy, but gives the best price per kilometre travelled for those who mainly want to save money. The couchette and mini cabin form the middle segment: considerably more peace and privacy than a seat, while the price still remains clearly lower than for a full sleeping compartment, so the value for money is very good for solo and budget travellers. The Comfort and especially the Comfort Plus/Deluxe sleepers offer the highest level of comfort, with fixed beds and, in the Plus/Deluxe category, a private toilet and shower and extensive breakfast, which per pound spent gives the best quality for travellers who value a good night’s sleep and hotel‑like comfort more than the lowest possible price.
