European Sleeper Expands Network with New Night Trains for 2026

Published on December 15, 2025

As Europe continues its shift toward sustainable travel, European Sleeper, the community-owned Dutch–Belgian night train operator, is leading the charge by expanding its network of night train routes across the continent. With new routes to Paris–Berlin and Brussels/Amsterdam–Milan confirmed for 2026, European Sleeper is set to revolutionize overnight travel in Europe. The company’s cooperative model, which allows travelers, citizens, and organizations to invest in the future of the European rail network, is providing a sustainable and affordable alternative to short-haul flights.

A Growing Night Train Network Across Europe

European Sleeper, which began its journey in 2023, has quickly become one of Europe’s few independent international rail operators. Its flagship route, the Good Night Train, has already carried more than 230,000 travelers across Europe, connecting Brussels, Amsterdam, Berlin, Dresden, and Prague. With over 750 trains operated in just two years, the company has proven that there is a strong demand for environmentally friendly and comfortable night travel in Europe.

The company’s commitment to sustainability and its unique community-powered approach have made it a standout in the rail industry. Now, European Sleeper is inviting the public to join its mission by investing in the next phase of its expansion through a sharefunding campaign. Starting from €280, individuals can become co-owners of the company, supporting its growth and contributing to the renewal of Europe’s night train infrastructure.

New Night Train Routes for 2026: Connecting Major European Cities

In 2026, European Sleeper will introduce two exciting new night train routes that will strengthen cross-border rail travel and further enhance its network:

• Paris–Berlin Night Train: Starting in March 2026, European Sleeper will operate three weekly services connecting Paris and Berlin. This route is particularly significant as it fills the gap left by the discontinuation of services by ÖBB and SNCF. The Paris–Berlin train will offer travelers a comfortable, eco-friendly way to travel between these two iconic cities.
• Brussels/Amsterdam–Milan Night Train: Launching in June 2026, this new north-south route will connect key economic and cultural hubs across Europe. The train will link Brussels and Amsterdam with Milan, stopping at key cities along the way, including Cologne, Bern, Zürich, Geneva, Venice, and Rome. This route promises to be a game-changer for travelers seeking to explore Europe overnight with minimal environmental impact.

Both of these routes are expected to attract tourists, business travelers, and anyone seeking a more sustainable and relaxed alternative to air travel.

Expansion of Rolling Stock and Improved Onboard Comfort

To support the growing demand for night train travel, European Sleeper will also invest in new rolling stock and upgrades to its current fleet. These improvements will ensure that passengers experience a more reliable, comfortable, and enjoyable journey. With modernized train coaches and enhanced onboard services, travelers can expect a premium travel experience on all European Sleeper routes.

A New Era of Accessible Travel: Tour Operator Launch

In addition to expanding its network, European Sleeper is also working on developing an in-house tour operator to offer holiday packages tailored to night train travelers. Following the acquisition of GreenCityTrip, the cooperative plans to provide accessible and sustainable holiday packages, allowing customers to explore Europe by night train and reach new destinations in an eco-friendly way. This move aims to attract a broader range of travelers who are seeking new ways to experience Europe’s culture and natural beauty.

Investing in the Future of European Rail

European Sleeper’s cooperative ownership model continues to be a standout feature in the railway industry. By allowing people to invest in the future of cross-border rail, the company is demonstrating how community-driven initiatives can help fill the gaps left by traditional rail operators. The Paris–Berlin and Brussels–Milan routes, along with the future Barcelona connection, are pivotal steps toward building a robust, sustainable, and affordable European rail network.

For those looking to invest, a contribution of €2,000 or more will entitle investors to a 20% discount on European Sleeper train tickets. This sharefunding campaign is expected to raise €1.3 million to support the new routes and improvements, with an additional €1.0 million to be raised later in the year. With the momentum of increasing political support and a growing demand for low-carbon travel options, European Sleeper’s vision for a renewed European rail network is becoming a reality.

Political Support for the Barcelona Night Train

In addition to the Paris and Milan routes, European Sleeper is actively working on a new night train route to Barcelona. The Dutch House of Representatives has recently shown support for this planned service, signaling strong political backing for the expansion of sustainable rail travel. This new route would connect Barcelona with other major European cities, further enhancing the continent’s rail infrastructure and promoting low-carbon mobility.

A Sustainable Future for European Rail Travel

European Sleeper is playing a key role in reshaping the future of European rail travel by offering affordable, sustainable, and comfortable night train services across the continent. With new routes, expanding rolling stock, and the support of its community of co-owners, the company is well-positioned to continue growing its network and providing eco-friendly travel options for European travelers. The launch of the Paris–Berlin and Brussels–Milan night trains in 2026, along with the planned Barcelona route, represents a major step forward in the quest to make train travel a more viable and sustainable alternative to flying in Europe.