European Sleeper will launch a new overnight train between Paris and Berlin on 26 March, stepping in to fill the void left by Austrian operator ÖBB. The announcement follows ÖBB’s decision to discontinue its Paris–Berlin and Paris–Vienna Nightjet routes in December.
ÖBB cited the expected withdrawal of French government subsidies by 2026 as the key reason for ending the services. The move sparked concerns about reduced night train connectivity across central Europe.
European Sleeper co-founder Chris Engelsman confirmed the new service on Wednesday, noting that ticket sales will begin on 16 December. The overnight train will operate three times per week, providing a vital link between the French and German capitals.
Rail authorities are currently finalising the exact route and intermediate stops.
However, the service is expected to include Brussels, giving travellers from the Belgian capital six weekly options to board sleeper trains heading to Berlin.
European Sleeper already operates a Brussels–Berlin train that continues to Prague via Amsterdam. But Engelsman said the new Paris–Berlin line will follow a different path and will not pass through Amsterdam.
The company aims to continue growing Europe’s night train network at a time when demand for sustainable travel is rising. Engelsman said the next phase of expansion could include sleeper routes to Barcelona or Milan as early as next year.
Passenger advocacy groups have welcomed the development, saying it helps preserve overnight connectivity across major European cities. They describe the revival of the Paris–Berlin service as an important contribution to greener long-distance travel.
With ÖBB stepping back and European Sleeper stepping forward, travellers will now see a renewed push to keep night trains on track across the continent.