Night train from Copenhagen to Hamburg

There currently are a variety of options to travel by night train from Copenhagen (Denmark) to Hamburg (Germany), taking between approximately 5 and 9 hours: Namely the RJ 387, the EN 345, the EN 13471, the 301 and the 10301. These lines are operated by DB, SJ, ÖBB and Snälltåget.

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.

SJ

The Swedish Railway SJ operates night trains daily throughout Sweden, covering long distances and serving remote areas.

What types of cars are available on SJ night trains?

The night trains include seating cars, couchettes, and sleepers. The sleeper cars provide compartments for two or three people as well as single compartments. Some routes also offer Deluxe compartments with private bathroom facilities and shower.

What amenities do the sleeper cars offer?

Each sleeper compartment has a washbasin. The Deluxe option additionally provides a private bathroom with shower.

What is included in the couchette compartments?

The couchettes offer space for up to six people with access to provided bedding and toilets in the carriage corridor. The middle berths fold up during the day to create seating areas. Compartment options include women-only, men-only, or mixed assignments. Private couchette compartments are available for travelers with pets upon request.

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?

The ÖBB usually offer four types of carriages in their night trains: seats, couchettes, Mini Cabins, 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 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.

Snälltåget

Snälltåget offers night travel with various comfort levels on night trains between European cities.

What accommodation options are available?

Accommodation ranges from individual seats in coaches to shared compartments with up to six berths and private compartments for small groups. All beds include bedding and blankets.

How do the compartments work?

Both shared and private compartments transform from day seating configuration to night bed mode. With three berths per side and ladder access to upper berths, private compartments offer the best option for groups.

Are pets and bicycles allowed?

Animals are permitted in private compartments only. Bikes are not allowed, but collapsible bicycles can be transported as hand luggage or stored on luggage racks.