There currently are a variety of options to travel by night train from Munich (Germany) to Hamburg (Germany), taking between approximately 8 and 11 hours: Namely the ICE 618, the NJ 40420, the ICE 1080, the NJ 492 and the 304. These lines are operated by DB, ÖBB and Snälltåget.
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 four types of carriages in their night trains: seats, couchettes, Mini Cabins, and sleepers.
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.
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 offers night travel with various comfort levels on night trains between European cities.
Snälltåget provides three options: budget seats in open coaches, berths in shared compartments for up to six people, and private compartments for groups. All berths include pillows, sheets, blankets and duvets.
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.
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.
For the next 7 dates with connections, the cheapest offer starts at 25 EUR. Check our connection pages below for all availabilities!