European Sleeper Revives Paris-Berlin Night Train Service

Dutch night train operator European Sleeper has announced plans to restore the Paris to Berlin night train connection, set to commence on March 26, 2026. This new service will fill the gap left by the discontinuation of Nightjet services by Austrian railway operator ÖBB and French operator SNCF, which will cease operations on December 15, 2025. The European Sleeper service will run three times a week, with departures from Paris on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, and return services from Berlin on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

European Sleeper to relaunch Paris–Berlin night trainEuropean Sleeper steps in to revive Paris-Berlin night trainsDutch night train operator to revive Paris to Berlin sleeper route next yearBack on track: Belgian-Dutch firm rescues Berlin to Paris sleeper trainThe Local (France)

The decision by ÖBB and SNCF to terminate their night train services was influenced by the French government's withdrawal of a €10 million subsidy, which was deemed essential for the economic viability of these routes. The Paris-Berlin night train, which had only been launched in December 2023, faced challenges in sustaining operations without this financial support.

Back on track: Belgian-Dutch firm rescues Berlin to Paris sleeper train

European Sleeper, a community-owned cooperative founded in 2021, aims to provide a sustainable alternative to air travel between two major European capitals. The company has already established itself with its existing Good Night Train service, which connects Brussels, Amsterdam, Berlin, Dresden, and Prague, carrying over 230,000 passengers since its inception. The new Paris-Berlin route will enhance its network and is expected to operate via Brussels, ultimately offering a six-times-weekly service between Brussels and Berlin.

European Sleeper to relaunch Paris–Berlin night trainDutch night train operator to revive Paris to Berlin sleeper route next yearEuropean Sleeper steps in to revive Paris-Berlin night trainsBack on track: Belgian-Dutch firm rescues Berlin to Paris sleeper trainThe Local (France)

Ticket sales for the new Paris-Berlin service are expected to open on December 16, 2025. The trains will feature various travel classes, including sleeper compartments, couchettes, and seated coaches, catering to a wide range of passengers. Fares are anticipated to be comparable to those of the previous Nightjet services, making night train travel accessible to both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking more comfort.

European Sleeper to relaunch Paris–Berlin night train

To support the launch of the Paris-Berlin service, European Sleeper is initiating a funding campaign to raise €2.3 million, which will be used for rolling stock procurement and initial operational costs. The cooperative model allows individuals and organizations to invest in the company, with shares starting at €280. In addition to the Paris-Berlin route, European Sleeper is exploring further international connections, including potential routes to Switzerland, Milan, and Barcelona.

European Sleeper to relaunch Paris–Berlin night trainDutch night train operator to revive Paris to Berlin sleeper route next yearEuropean Sleeper steps in to revive Paris-Berlin night trainsBack on track: Belgian-Dutch firm rescues Berlin to Paris sleeper trainThe Local (France)

While the revival of the Paris-Berlin night train has been welcomed by many, including activists from France's Climate Action Network, who view it as a step towards more environmentally friendly travel, there are concerns regarding the reliance on private operators for such services. Critics argue that continued government subsidies are necessary to ensure the viability of night train services across Europe. French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot has expressed support for initiatives that enhance rail services without taxpayer funding.

The Local (France)Back on track: Belgian-Dutch firm rescues Berlin to Paris sleeper trainEuropean Sleeper to relaunch Paris–Berlin night trainEuropean Sleeper steps in to revive Paris-Berlin night trains

The reintroduction of the Paris-Berlin night train by European Sleeper represents a significant development in European rail travel, aiming to provide a sustainable and convenient alternative to air travel. As the company prepares for its launch, it seeks to balance operational viability with the growing demand for environmentally friendly transportation options.

European Sleeper to relaunch Paris–Berlin night train