Night train from Cologne to Zurich starting at 34 EUR

There currently are a variety of options to travel by night train from Cologne (Germany) to Zurich (Switzerland), taking between approximately 8 and 10 hours: Namely the IC 60403, the NJ 403 and the ES 401. These lines are operated by DB, ÖBB and European Sleeper.

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.

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?

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 can hold up to six people. The Mini Cabin is a private space for one person – two adjacent Mini Cabins can be connected for traveling together. Sleepers are private compartments for one to three people.

What amenities do sleeper cars offer?

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.

European Sleeper

European Sleeper is a young Dutch startup connecting several European cities in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and the Czech Republic with their "Good Night Train".

What do the sleeper cars offer?

The sleeper cars offer comfortable and lockable compartments for one, two or three persons, each equipped with a washbasin. The service includes bedding, towels, toiletries and breakfast. A wake-up service is available.

What are the couchette car options?

Choose between standard couchette cars with 6 berths or air-conditioned comfort couchettes for 5 people. The latter can be booked privately or exclusively for women. Blankets, bedding and mineral water are included, breakfast can be added for an additional fee. Compartments can be locked from the inside.

What do the seating cars offer?

The seating cars offer, as the most affordable travel option, 6-person compartments with guaranteed seat reservations. Breakfast can be booked for an additional fee, drinks and snacks are available on board.

For the next 7 dates with connections, the cheapest offer starts at 34 EUR. Check our connection pages below for all availabilities!