Review: The European Sleeper Overnight Train from Rotterdam to Dresden - 9 September, 2024

The European Sleeper train between Rotterdam and Dresden offers an eco-conscious alternative to air travel in Europe, connecting cities along a scenic route between Brussels and Prague passing through Antwerp, Rotterdam, The Hague, Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Dresden. Launched in March 2024, the service addresses the growing demand for sustainable travel options and is part of the broader rail revival across Europe, especially in night train services. This renewed interest is due to night trains' lower environmental impact, with trains generating up to 90% less CO2 per passenger than aircraft.
The European Sleeper route operates twice a week, with daily service expected by 2025. Departing in the evening from Brussels, the train passes through key destinations before reaching Dresden and Prague the following morning. This route also offers picturesque views, including Saxon Switzerland and the Elbe Valley, enhancing the appeal for travelers interested in scenic routes. It’s a practical choice for UK-based travelers as well, with Eurostar connections allowing a single transfer in Brussels.
To meet different travel needs, European Sleeper offers three accommodation classes: basic reclining seats, shared couchettes (convertible bunks in shared compartments), and private sleeper compartments. The sleeper option includes full bedding, a washbasin, breakfast, and mineral water, aiming to balance comfort with convenience. Although there is no dining car, attendants offer snacks and drinks. Ticket prices start around €129 for seats, with couchettes and sleeper cabins available at higher rates. Interrail and Eurail passes are accepted, making the train accessible to European travelers with rail passes, provided they reserve seats in advance.
This service is part of a broader strategy to make rail an affordable, sustainable choice across Europe. Other European countries are also supporting rail development; for instance, Germany recently introduced the €49 Deutschlandticket, encouraging travel within the country’s rail network. European Sleeper plans future routes, potentially linking Amsterdam and Barcelona by 2026, demonstrating its commitment to extending night train networks across more destinations.
The rail revival also responds to the EU’s sustainability goals. Night trains are a key part of the European Green Deal, which seeks to reduce carbon emissions and promote rail as a viable alternative to flights. Night train services face challenges, including shared tracks and infrastructure investments, but European Sleeper’s growth indicates strong support for sustainable transportation options.
In summary, the European Sleeper train from Rotterdam to Dresden exemplifies the return of night trains in Europe, connecting major cities in a comfortable, eco-friendly way. As routes expand and services improve, night trains offer a practical, scenic, and environmentally responsible travel option across the continent.
This film features a detailed review of my journey from Rotterdam to Dresden, which cost me 229 Euro, which is comparable to the cost of a flight and hotel. The train is loco-hauled and has a variety of carriages in random order. I had an entire sleeper compartment to myself.
The carriages arrived at Rotterdam in a random order, which wasn't helpful, but I found the sleeper carriage ok. The compartment itself was ok but quite dated. It had a sink, a single plug socket, storage drawers and three beds. of which I had one. Two of the seats turned into my bed leaving me with a single seat and a table, which was fine.
In terms of sleep quality, it was poor. The carriages rattled and juddered all night long, I probably managed around 2-3 hours sleep in total, but with that said it was a novel experience. I'd be tempted to try it again, although I'd probably go for a different route. The film includes me discussing the various aspects of the compartment and journey.
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