European Sleeper to Launch New Overnight Train Routes Connecting Belgium and Italy by February 2025
![People seated inside a modern red and white train, captured from outside the carriage](https://i.travelwiseway.com/news/2024/8/22/image1.jpg?size=355x198)
European Sleeper is set to introduce a new overnight train service in February next year, linking Belgium with the Austrian Alps and Venice. The route, which will operate twice weekly during peak winter seasons, is intended to provide a sustainable and comfortable travel option across the Netherlands, Germany, and Austria.
Alongside the Venice route, the company is also preparing a daily night train service between Amsterdam and Barcelona, supported by the European Commission. Bookings for the Venice route open on September 1, 2024, with ticket prices to be announced soon, highlighting European Sleeper’s commitment to providing greener, more convenient travel options across Europe.
Also, last year the company introduced the inaugural nonstop overnight train service between Berlin and Brussels in over a decade. This move is part of European Sleeper's broader strategy to expand its network, and intends to initiate an overnight train service between Amsterdam and Barcelona by 2025 or 2026. To achieve these goals, European Sleeper is undertaking the modernization of 30 carriages at an estimated cost of €40 million to €60 million, supported by the European Commission, which has included the initiative in its list of pilot night train projects.
The rollout of new overnight trains by European Sleeper greatly improves travel choices for those looking for environmentally friendly transportation. With the initiation of the Venice route and the network's extension to Barcelona, passengers can now traverse Europe with increased ease, bypassing lengthy flights. This is especially advantageous for travelers who prioritize comfort and efficiency, as night trains provide an overnight trip that reduces accommodation expenses while ensuring a comfortable journey.
It's noteworthy that European authorities are actively supporting the development of such transport solutions, highlighting their significance for the future of sustainable travel across the continent. This backing not only facilitates the expansion of cross-border rail services but also reinforces the commitment to reducing carbon emissions. People can enjoy more environmentally friendly travel options that align with broader European sustainability goals.