A new train connecting five countries is being launched in Europe

A night train passing through the Alps and Europe's largest cities is becoming a new alternative to flying for tourists and travellers. The route covers several countries at once and makes long journeys more comfortable and environmentally friendly. Find out which cities the new European train will connect, when the flights will start, and how this route will be convenient for travelling around Europe

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In recent years, international passenger rail transport has been actively developing in Europe, promoted as a more environmentally friendly alternative to air travel. Although air travel is often cheaper and faster, European rail operators continue to expand their route networks, focusing on comfort, night travel and ‘no-transfer’ journeys.

Starting in June 2026, the Belgian-Dutch operator European Sleeper will launch a new night train connecting five European countries. This was reported by Travel Off Path.

From Amsterdam and Brussels — straight to Milan

The new route will allow travellers to take a night train from Amsterdam (Netherlands) or Brussels (Belgium) and travel to Milan (Italy) without changing trains. Along the way, trains will pass through Germany and Switzerland, offering a convenient option for those who want to combine travel with a night's rest.

According to the plan, separate trains will depart from Amsterdam and Brussels and then merge in Cologne, Germany. After that, the train will continue south as a single train crossing the Alps.

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Planned stops on the route

Although the final schedule and list of stations are still subject to change, the route currently includes the following stops:

▪️ Amsterdam (Netherlands) or Brussels (Belgium)

▪️ Cologne (Germany)

▪️ Bern (Switzerland)

▪️ Brig (Switzerland)

▪️ Domodossola (Italy)

▪️ Stresa (Italy)

▪️ Milan (Italy)

Thus, one night train covers five European countries and several key tourist regions at once.

When will the trains run?

It is tentatively planned that trains from Amsterdam and Brussels will depart in the evening on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Return flights from Milan are scheduled for Wednesday, Friday and Sunday evenings. The operator promises to publish the final schedule closer to the launch of the route.

The launch of this train is another step towards the formation of a pan-European network of night trains, which allow passengers to travel long distances comfortably, ecologically and without being tied to airports.

During periods of unstable weather, passengers are also advised to plan alternative travel options in advance. It is convenient to check and book tickets for various modes of transport through Visit Ukraine — this allows you to quickly find available routes and adjust your trip in case of flight cancellations.

Reminder! Winter snowfalls and storms are increasingly paralysing air traffic, leaving passengers at airports without a clear understanding of what to do next. A cancelled or delayed flight does not have to be a disaster for your budget and your trip if you know your rights and the obligations of airlines in such situations. Find out when you are entitled to a refund, in which cases meals and hotel accommodation are provided, and what to do to avoid losing your compensation.

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