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 NJ 402, the IC 60402 and the 001ZA. These lines are operated by ÖBB, DB and Twiliner.
The Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) operate the Nightjet and Euronight trains (the latter together with other national railway agencies).
ÖBB night trains typically feature three types of carriages: 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 accommodate up to six people, while sleepers are private compartments for one to three people.
They sometimes include a private bathroom or even a shower, sometimes only a sink.
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.
The company Twiliner offers a new night travel experience with buses whose seats can be fully reclined. The connections run from city center to city center without detours via airports. The concept is aimed at travelers looking for an alternative to air and rail travel.
Twiliner buses are equipped with special seats that can be completely laid flat. This patent-pending technology works at the touch of a button and is equipped with a safety system that enables travel in any position.
Every seat in Twiliner buses is equipped with free Wi-Fi and power outlets. In the lower area of the buses there is a toilet, a changing room and a snack bar with drinks and snacks. The seats feature personal storage, a table, USB chargers and a reading light. Water, coffee and Wi-Fi are available free of charge.
Per person, Twiliner includes one suitcase (maximum 23 kg) and one carry-on item (maximum 5 kg). These are transported in the luggage compartment. At the seat itself there is only space for small bags or backpacks. Additional luggage incurs charges.
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.
For the next 7 dates with connections, the cheapest offer starts at 45 EUR. Check our connection pages below for all availabilities!