Overnight journey from Amsterdam to Basel starting at 40 EUR

There currently are a variety of options to travel by night bus or night train from Amsterdam (Netherlands) to Basel (Switzerland), taking between approximately 9 and 11 hours: Namely the 002AZ, the NJ 403 and the IC 60403. These lines are operated by Twiliner, ÖBB and DB.

Twiliner

Twiliner is a bus company that redefines overnight travel by bus in Europe. The buses feature special seats that can be transformed into beds at the touch of a button. The vehicles are equipped with spacious toilets, changing rooms and a snack bar and run on HVO diesel for reduced emissions.

What makes the Twiliner seat unique?

Twiliner's patent-pending seats can be fully reclined into a bed at the touch of a button. According to the company, they are the first of their kind in Europe. The seats feature a safety system that enables travel in different positions.

What amenities are available on board?

All seats are equipped with Wi-Fi and power outlets. The buses have a toilet, a changing room and a snack bar with drinks and snacks. Each seat includes storage, a folding table, USB charging ports and reading light. Water, coffee and internet are included in the service.

What are the luggage regulations?

At Twiliner, one large suitcase up to 23 kg and one carry-on item up to 5 kg are included in the ticket price. These are stored in the luggage compartment. At the seat there is only space for small personal items. Additional luggage pieces can be booked for a fee.

How does safety work?

The company has developed a safety system for the sleeping position where seat belts and sleeping bags are mandatory. Twiliner cooperates with bus companies whose drivers are certified and trained for night routes. Two drivers are deployed on each journey who alternate.

ÖBB

The Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) operate the Nightjet and Euronight trains (the latter together with other national railway agencies).

What types of carriages are available on ÖBB trains?

ÖBB night trains typically feature four types of carriages: seats, couchettes, the compact Mini Cabin, and sleepers.

What's the difference between seats, couchettes, Mini Cabins, and sleeper cars?

While seats are only for the bravest, couchettes, Mini Cabins, and sleepers offer a more comfortable journey. The couchettes usually feature simple and rather narrow berths, while the Mini Cabin provides a compact private space for one person. Two adjacent Mini Cabins can be combined for couples. Sleepers boast beds with duvets and pillows and sometimes even a private bathroom. Couchettes accommodate up to six people, Mini Cabins are designed for one person each but two can be combined for couples, while sleepers are private compartments for one to three people.

What amenities do sleeper cars offer?

Sleepers may include a private bathroom or shower, or sometimes just a sink. The Mini Cabin bridges the gap between couchettes and sleepers, offering solo privacy at a lower price point.

DB

Does Deutsche Bahn still operate night trains?

Deutsche Bahn (DB) exited the actual night train business in 2016. However, it operates around a dozen Intercity and Eurocity trains that run exclusively at night.

What are the travel conditions like on these trains?

These trains only have first and second class seats. The cars remain lit throughout the night and the seats cannot be reclined.

For the next 7 dates with connections, the cheapest offer starts at 40 EUR. Check our connection pages below for all availabilities!