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Sleeping on trains? Seat reservations?

  • March 1, 2026
  • 2 replies
  • 53 views

Hi! I'm planning an Interrail trip this summer (around August) with 3 friends.
We were wondering if it's a good idea to sleep on the train for one night (for example from Amsterdam to Berlin) to save money, or if it's better to book accommodation.
Also, would you recommend reserving seats in advance, or is it usually fine without reservations?
Any advice or personal experiences would be really helpful. Thanks! :)

Best answer by ralderton

Here's a guide to sleeper trains, including the European Sleeper that runs from Amsterdam to Berlin three times a week

https://www.seat61.com/sleepers.htm

2 replies

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  • Railly clever
  • March 2, 2026

Usually travelling without reservations is fine is fine on trains where it is optional. But finding 4 unreserved free seats together can be harder, so as a group it can make more sense to reserve seats. (If you get on at the first station of the train you usually have better chances)

Regarding night trains they make the most sense on routes where no highspeed trains run. The reservation for a couchette on a night train is usually not cheaper then a hostel. But you can sometimes save on travel days. Booking just abseat on a night train is pretty uncomfortable (if its an older one with compartments it can be fine, but i still would not recommend it) Can also be a fun experience if you book atleast couchette.

 


ralderton
Railmaster
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  • Railmaster
  • Answer
  • March 2, 2026

Here's a guide to sleeper trains, including the European Sleeper that runs from Amsterdam to Berlin three times a week

https://www.seat61.com/sleepers.htm