Night train from Zurich to Cologne starting at 40 EUR

There currently are a variety of options to travel by night train from Zurich (Switzerland) to Cologne (Germany), taking between approximately 8 and 10 hours: Namely the NJ 402, the IC 60402 and the ES 400. These lines are operated by ÖBB, DB and European Sleeper.

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?

While seats are only for the bravest, couchettes, Mini Cabins, and sleepers offer a more comfortable journey. The couchettes usually feature simple and rather narrow berths, while the Mini Cabin provides a compact private space for one person. Two adjacent Mini Cabins can be combined for couples. Sleepers boast beds with duvets and pillows 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.

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.

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?

In the sleeper cars, you can book lockable single, double or triple compartments, all with their own washbasin. Bedding, toiletries, towels and breakfast are included. Compartments can be locked from the inside.

What are the couchette car options?

The couchette cars come in two variants: standard (6 people) and comfort (5 people, air-conditioned). Both include bedding, blankets and pillows. Comfort compartments can be booked as private or women-only compartments. The 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 40 EUR. Check our connection pages below for all availabilities!