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 12 hours: Namely the 002AZ, the NJ 403 and the IC 60403. These lines are operated by Twiliner, ÖBB and DB.
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.
Twiliner uses seats that can be completely transformed into beds at the touch of a button. The patented design offers comfort for working, relaxing or sleeping. An integrated safety system is effective in all seating positions.
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.
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.
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.
The Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) operate the Nightjet and Euronight trains (the latter together with other national railway agencies).
ÖBB night trains typically feature four types of carriages: seats, couchettes, the compact Mini Cabin, and sleepers.
Seats are for the bravest, while couchettes, Mini Cabins, and sleepers provide a more comfortable journey. In the couchettes, you can find simple and rather narrow berths. The Mini Cabin is a compact sleeping option for solo travelers – two Mini Cabins can be combined for couples. Sleepers are equipped with proper beds 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.
Sleepers sometimes include a private bathroom or even a shower, sometimes only a sink. The Mini Cabin offers a more affordable private alternative with its own compact sleeping space for one person.
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.
In these night trains, there are only first and second class seats. The lights stay on all the time and there is no way to recline the seats.
For the next 7 dates with connections, the cheapest offer starts at 50 EUR. Check our connection pages below for all availabilities!