Austria’s ÖBB, a trailblazer in rejuvenating overnight train services, is set to introduce a brand-new fleet of 33-night trains in December 2023. This revamped service prioritizes solo travelers, offering pod-like single berths alongside traditional couchettes and sleeping cars, enhancing the overall passenger experience.
The upcoming seven-carriage trains, accommodating 254 passengers each, will feature a noteworthy configuration consisting of two seating cars, three couchette cars, and two sleeping cars. These sleeping cars are poised for a substantial upgrade from the traditionally modest sleeper trains. Notably, all compartments within the sleeping cars will boast private bathrooms, complete with showers, enhancing passenger comfort. Additionally, the introduction of fixed beds aims to provide a more comfortable sleeping experience.
Furthermore, passengers will find increased storage capacity for bulky luggage, such as sports equipment and strollers, along with designated spots for up to six bicycles.
Passengers will have the option to choose between ensuite cabins designed for two occupants, with bunk beds, available in both Comfort Plus and slightly cozier Comfort configurations. Alternatively, there are couchette compartments accommodating four berths each, although these do not feature ensuite facilities.
The true innovation lies in the introduction of “Mini Cabins” within the couchette cars—a breakthrough concept featuring pod-like single berths stacked in two layers. These Mini Cabins offer solo travelers both privacy and an efficiently designed personal space. Each Mini Cabin includes amenities such as a foldaway breakfast table, reading lamp, storage area, and lockers for shoes and handbags. Furthermore, every train will include an accessible couchette, capable of accommodating up to two wheelchair users and two additional passengers, complemented by an accessible toilet.
Train travel is the future indeed according to Leonore Gewessler, Austria’s minister for climate action, said the new trains make it clear that the future of short and medium-haul travel belongs to the train.
Emphasizing the environmental benefits of train travel, officials are dedicated to bolstering the European night train network. She further highlighted the objective is to streamline and enhance the experience, making it more convenient and comfortable for passengers. She said the trains have received approval for operation in Austria, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and the Netherlands and are scheduled to commence service on December 10, serving the Vienna-Hamburg and Innsbruck-Hamburg routes. Ticket sales for these routes are set to commence on October 11.
ÖBB, commemorating its centenary this year, now stands as the proprietor of Europe’s largest fleet of sleeper trains, providing comprehensive railway services throughout the continent.