Europe by Night: New Train to Copenhagen and Malmö

28.08.2026, 11:05 visitukraine.today

In April 2028, a direct overnight train operated by European Sleeper will begin running between Brussels, Amsterdam, Copenhagen and Malmö — the company's first route to Scandinavia

In April 2028, a new direct overnight rail route will launch in Europe, connecting Brussels and Amsterdam with Copenhagen and Malmö.

The launch has been agreed between night train operator European Sleeper and German railway operator RDC. This will be the company's first route to Scandinavia, providing a direct connection between the Benelux countries, Denmark and southern Sweden.

The new train will depart in the evening, with passengers arriving at the final station the following morning — no need to travel during the day and no loss of a full day to the journey. Thanks to the overnight connection, cities in Western and Northern Europe will become more accessible to travellers, and train travel will turn into a comfortable rest on the go.

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According to preliminary plans, trains will depart from both Brussels and Malmö at around 19:00 local time. Passengers will arrive at the final station at around 10:00 the following morning. This means that a significant part of the journey can be spent sleeping, saving time and money on a hotel.

The Brussels–Malmö route will be a continuation of European Sleeper's network expansion towards Northern Europe. Thanks to the overnight connection, Copenhagen and Malmö can be reached without changes. As for cities such as London, Paris, Stockholm and Oslo, they can be reached with just one additional change.

"Our network is growing quickly, and Scandinavia is a natural next step," said Chris Engelsman, co-founder of European Sleeper. "Together with RDC, we can create a night train that directly connects the Benelux with Copenhagen and Malmö, bringing another part of Europe within a comfortable night's journey."

Markus Hunkel, chief executive officer of RDC, added: "RDC has many years of experience operating night trains between Germany and Scandinavia. Together with European Sleeper, we can create a strong new connection between the Benelux, Denmark and Sweden."

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Passengers are promised several accommodation options. The new trains will use European Sleeper and RDC carriages with comfortable seats, couchettes and shared sleeping compartments. The possibility of launching improved Deluxe category sleeping accommodations is also being considered. These could potentially include double beds and private en-suite bathrooms.

Currently, European Sleeper offers four main travel classes:

Sleeping compartments have seats and a table. There is a washbasin in the compartment, toilets are in the carriage. Towel and toiletries, breakfast, mineral water and a welcome drink are included. Wake-up call service at a convenient time is available.

All passengers can purchase drinks and snacks on the train. Breakfast can be added to the booking for an additional fee (except for Comfort Plus class, where it is included).

Travelling by night train is a comfortable, sustainable and quiet way to cross Europe. You travel while you sleep and wake up in a new city. Night trains turn travel time into rest, saving money on a hotel and a day of travel.

Here are several advantages of European Sleeper night trains:

"The holiday starts on the train," the company says. You depart in the evening, find your couchette and relax while the train glides peacefully through the night. In the morning, enjoy breakfast and coffee as you roll into your destination.

The new Scandinavian route will not be the only major expansion of the European Sleeper network. On 9 September 2026, the company's first night train between Brussels and Milan is set to depart. It will connect the Benelux countries with Switzerland and northern Italy. At the same time, preparations continue for the launch of the Brussels–Barcelona route, which is also planned to open in 2028.

Currently, European Sleeper already operates night trains on the Brussels–Prague, Paris–Berlin and Brussels–Milan routes. The network is expanding rapidly, connecting Western, Central and Southern Europe with comfortable overnight routes.

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Luggage is included in the ticket price. It is recommended to bring one suitcase or backpack and a small daypack, all of which you should be able to carry and store yourself safely.

You can bring a dog or cat on board. To do this, you need to book a private compartment. A space for your pet can be booked for an additional fee.

In Comfort Plus class, breakfast is included in the ticket price. Passengers in Comfort Standard, Classic and Budget classes can add breakfast during booking on the website or purchase it from the stewards on the train. Breakfast includes a hot drink, a soft bun, juice, yogurt with granola, and crackers with a variety of spreads.

Although basic sleep essentials are provided, for a more restful rest it is recommended to bring a sleeping mask and earplugs. This will help you sleep better on the journey.

For Ukrainians travelling around Europe, the new night route to Scandinavia opens up additional opportunities.

Firstly, it is a convenient way to reach Denmark and southern Sweden without flights.

Secondly, the night train allows you to save time and money, which is especially important for long trips across multiple countries.

Thirdly, the development of the night train network in Europe makes the continent more accessible to travelers who value comfort, eco-friendliness and the romance of rail travel. For those planning to visit several European cities in one trip, night trains become an ideal option.

The launch of a new night train between Brussels, Amsterdam, Copenhagen and Malmö is an important milestone in the development of the European network of overnight rail routes. In April 2028, travelers will be able to use the direct connection between the Benelux and Scandinavia for the first time, travelling at night and saving time and money.

European Sleeper continues to expand its network, connecting more and more European cities with comfortable overnight routes. For those who love travelling by train, this is a great opportunity to discover new destinations and enjoy the romance of a night journey across Europe.

Reminder! We have an up-to-date guide on international train trips from Ukraine. Find out about prices, routes and destinations.

Photo: Pexels

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