Thursday, August 22, 2024 A new chapter in European rail travel is set to begin in 2025 with the launch of a night train service connecting Brussels, Rotterdam, Venice and other European cities. Operated by European Sleeper, this seasonal route is designed to cater to winter sports enthusiasts, city break travelers and those attending Venice Carnival. The train will traverse nine cities, offering a sustainable and comfortable travel option across Europe.
A Sustainable Travel Solution Across Europe The Brussels to Venice night train is a response to the growing demand for sustainable travel alternatives, particularly for winter sports and city trips. European Sleeper, the Belgian-Dutch railway company, has carefully selected this route to provide travelers with a unique opportunity to explore some of Europe’s most iconic cities while minimizing their carbon footprint. The Route: Nine Cities in Three Countries The journey begins in Brussels and ends in Venice, taking approximately 15 hours to complete.
Along the way, the train will stop in nine cities across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and Austria before reaching its final destination in Italy. The 9 cities included in this scenic route are: Brussels, Belgium – The starting point of the journey. Antwerp, Belgium – Known for its diamond district and vibrant cultural scene.
Rotterdam, Netherlands – A city famous for its modern architecture and bustling port. Utrecht, Netherlands – A historic city with picturesque canals and a rich medieval history. Cologne, Germany – Home to the iconic Cologne Cathedral and a vibrant arts scene.
Munich, Germany – The gateway to Bavaria and a hub for winter sports. Innsbruck, Austria – The gateway to the Austrian Alps, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. Verona, Italy – A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Roman architecture.
Venice, Italy – The final destination, renowned for its canals, history, and the annual Venice Carnival. Inaugural Journey and Schedule The first train will depart from Brussels on 5 February 2025. The service is scheduled to run approximately twice a week during February and March, aligning with the peak winter sports season and the Venice Carnival.
It will take place from 22 February to 4 March 2025. Chris Engelsman, co-founder of European Sleeper, emphasized the convenience and sustainability of this new service, stating, “This schedule accommodates school holidays, the peak winter sports season, and provides a sustainable, enjoyable travel option to Venice’s famous carnival.” Booking Information and Ticket Prices Booking for this new night train service will officially open on 1 September 2024.
While specific ticket prices have yet to be announced, European Sleeper has promised that more details will be released soon. Travelers can also book through Green City Trip, a partner organization based in the Netherlands that focuses on environmentally friendly travel options. The company is currently finalizing the departure and arrival times with relevant authorities, and a detailed timetable is expected to be available shortly.
Why Choose the Brussels to Venice Night Train? This new route by European Sleeper offers numerous benefits for travelers: Sustainability: The train provides a greener alternative to air travel, helping to reduce carbon emissions. Comfort: Passengers can relax in the restaurant car while the train travels through stunning landscapes, including the Alps. Convenience: The service is timed to coincide with school holidays and popular travel periods, making it an ideal option for families and winter sports enthusiasts.
Cultural Experience: The route allows travelers to explore multiple cities in one trip, offering a rich cultural experience. Europe’s most beautiful and historic cities The new Brussels to Venice night train is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s a journey through some of Europe’s most beautiful and historic cities. Whether you’re heading to the Austrian Alps for winter sports, exploring the cultural offerings of cities like Munich and Verona or planning to attend the Venice Carnival, this new service provides a sustainable, convenient, and enjoyable travel option.
With bookings opening on 1 September 2024, now is the perfect time to start planning your European adventure for 2025..
