Do European Sleeper Trains Have Showers? A Comprehensive Guide to Modern Sleeping Services

Travelling by European sleeper train can be a luxurious and comfortable experience. However, the availability of shower facilities can vary significantly depending on the train service and cabin type. This article provides an in-depth look at the showers available on European sleeper trains and highlights some of the top modern train services that offer en-suite facilities.

Standard vs Premium Services

Most European sleeper trains, especially on standard compartments and cars, do not come equipped with showers. However, some premium services and specific trains do offer access to shower facilities. These showers can either be shared in a communal restroom area or as en-suite facilities within the sleeping compartments. For instance, passengers using the Nightjet service operated by BB Austrian Federal Railways and some services in Scandinavia may have better amenities, including showers. It is advisable to check the specific train service you plan to use for detailed information on available facilities.

Shower Facilities in Modern European Sleeper Trains

The recent surge in European sleeper train services has led to remarkable improvements, particularly in terms of comfort and modern amenities. Some modern sleeper trains have en-suite showers, while others provide communal showers. For example, the Caledonian sleeper service in the UK offers selected berths with private en-suite rooms equipped with showers. Other passengers can opt for standard sleeping berths or pay a premium for en-suite bathrooms within the sleeping compartments.

BB Austrian Federal Railways: NightJet

The NightJet service by BB - the state-owned and operated Austrian federal railway, represents a major leap forward in European sleeper train technology. This service is designed to enhance comfort and efficiency, making long-distance travel more luxurious. The NightJet network radiates out from key hubs like Vienna, Zürich, Munich, Innsbruck, and radiates to major cities such as Paris, Brussels, Hamburg, Berlin, Rome, Amsterdam, and their intermediate stations.

BB is launching a brand new fleet of NightJet trains with advanced features. The total cost for this fleet is €720 million, and the company has ordered 33 sets of trains, operating in a fixed 7-car formation. This new fleet boasts a top speed of 230 km/h, making it the fastest sleeper train in Europe. The first route to be serviced with this new rolling stock is Hamburg to Vienna/Innsbruck, which will launch on December 11, 2023, with all services operational by 2025.

En-suite Showers and Features

Notably, all berths in the two sleeping cars of the new NightJet fleet will include en-suite bathrooms and shower facilities. Certain berths in these sleeping cars are larger, providing greater comfort and a premium option for passengers. The three couchette cars feature innovate and affordable mini-cabin amenities, each offering complete privacy, similar to a Japanese capsule hotel. Passengers in the mini-cabins will still have access to a toilet, but not showers. A pleasant addition to the mini-cabin service is the personal mood lighting for each cabin, offering a unique and customizable sleep experience.

Cost and Amenities

For the route from Vienna to Hamburg, passengers can expect to pay from €142 for a trip in a mini-cabin or €194 for a sleeping compartment with en-suite facilities. The overnight journey time, covering 1000 km, is expected to take approximately 13 hours. This new train service not only ensures a more comfortable and luxurious travel experience but also enhances the concept of long-distance train travel by offering advanced amenities and features.

Conclusion

While not all European sleeper trains come equipped with showers, several modern services like the NightJet by BB offer impressive amenities, including en-suite bathrooms and showers. For those seeking a luxurious and comfortable travel experience, these modern sleeper trains can be an excellent option. Whether you're planning a long-distance journey through Europe or looking for a unique travel experience, the improvements in European sleeper trains provide a promising future for this mode of transportation.