These New Night Trains In Europe Will Offer Affordable Alternative To Short-Haul Flights

As concerns about the climate, busy airports, expensive fares and growing travel demand continue to shape mobility in Europe, rail travel is gaining renewed attention. A Berlin-based startup, Nox, is working on a new night train network that could offer a more practical and sustainable way to move between major European cities. The company aims to make overnight rail travel more affordable and private, offering an alternative to short-haul flights.Low FaresSlated to roll out its first trains in 2027, Nox aims to provide overnight rail services with fully private sleeper cabins, a significant shift from the traditional shared compartments most travellers associate with night trains. The company aims to connect 100 European cities by 2035, including hotspots like Paris, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Warsaw, Budapest, and Rome, all while matching or undercutting the price of airfare.Passenger-FriendlyWhat sets Nox apart is its customer-first design. While existing sleeper services across Europe often charge premium rates for privacy—and even then, seats and beds can be cramped—Nox is changing the experience with three thoughtfully designed room categories.According to multiple international reports, the Single Loft offers an upper-level bed, seat, and table tailored for solo travellers. There’s the Double Loft for couples or companions, with a double upper-level bed, two seats, and a table. Meanwhile, the Double Vista features easy-access lower beds that convert into seating during the day—ideal for those who may find upper bunks challenging. Each room will have two-metre-long beds, stand space, and ample luggage storage. Passengers can enjoy panoramic window views in select cabins, adding a scenic dimension to their overnight journey.Additional FeaturesImportantly, the trains are also being designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring wheelchair-accessible coaches and facilities are part of the experience from the start. All cabins are private, eliminating the need for passengers to share with strangers—an often-cited deterrent for many potential night train users.Meal services will be available onboard, making the journey not just a means of transport but a comfortable and complete travel experience. And while comfort is a priority, Nox is just as committed to affordability. The startup has openly declared its goal of making ticket prices no higher than short-haul flight fares, making train travel more sustainable and economically viable.(With inputs from multiple reports)Explained: How India-Europe, US Flights Are Affected As Middle East Airspace Closes