There currently are a variety of options to travel by night train or night bus from Basel (Switzerland) to Amsterdam (Netherlands), taking between approximately 9 and 14 hours: Namely the IC 60402, the NJ 402 and the 001ZA. These lines are operated by DB, ÖBB and Twiliner.
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.
These trains only have first and second class seats. The cars remain lit throughout the night and the seats cannot be reclined.
The Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) operate the Nightjet and Euronight trains (the latter together with other national railway agencies).
The ÖBB usually offer three types of carriages in their night trains: seats, couchettes, and sleepers.
While seats are only for the bravest, couchettes and sleepers offer a more comfortable journey. The couchettes usually feature simple and rather narrow berths, while the sleepers boast beds with duvets and pillows and sometimes even a private bathroom. Couchettes can hold up to six people, whereas sleepers are private compartments for one to three people.
They sometimes include a private bathroom or even a shower, sometimes only a sink.
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.
Twiliner's luggage regulations allow each passenger one large suitcase (max. 23kg, 80 x 50 x 35cm) and one carry-on (max. 5kg, 50 x 30 x 20cm) at no extra cost in the luggage compartment. Storage space at the seat is limited, which is why only small handbags or backpacks can be taken. Additional luggage can be booked for an extra charge.
Twiliner has developed a restraint system for the lying position that was tested according to company information. Passengers must wear seat belts throughout the journey and use a sleeping bag when lying down. The company works with various bus companies whose drivers are trained for night driving. Two drivers are deployed per journey who alternate regularly.
For the next 7 dates with connections, the cheapest offer starts at 45 EUR. Check our connection pages below for all availabilities!