Night Train Routes Between Paris, Berlin, and Vienna Set to End

Two popular night train routes connecting Paris to Berlin and Vienna will be discontinued starting mid-December 2025. The Austrian rail operator, ÖBB, announced that these Nightjet sleeper services will no longer be available after December 14, 2025.

According to ÖBB, the French railway company SNCF Voyageurs received notification from the Ministry of Transport in Paris regarding the termination of government service contracts for these routes. In a statement, ÖBB expressed its disappointment: “Night trains can currently only be operated with the participation of international partners.” The company noted that the withdrawal of its French partners has led to the cancellation of both connections.

The Paris to Berlin night sleeper route was relaunched on December 11, 2023, nearly ten years after it was previously scrapped due to financial losses and competition from cheaper bus services, as reported by The Independent. The Paris to Vienna route, which began operation in December 2021, was part of ÖBB’s broader initiative to revive sleeper train services in Europe.

ÖBB, recognized as Europe’s largest sleeper train provider, has been a leader in promoting night trains as a low-emission alternative to air travel. Despite the upcoming cancellations, the Nightjet brand continues to operate numerous services, linking 25 major cities across eight European countries. Passengers can choose between more affordable seat car options or opt for sleeper cars, which offer beds, showers, toilets, and other amenities. For those seeking an economical choice, couchettes are available for sleeping.

The discontinuation of the Paris to Berlin and Vienna routes reflects challenges faced by night train services in Europe. Earlier this year, ÖBB also halted its Nightjet service connecting Berlin with Brussels, which had been in operation for just over a year.

As the demand for sustainable travel options increases, ÖBB’s efforts highlight the ongoing struggle to maintain night train services in a competitive environment. The rail operator remains committed to providing alternatives for travelers across Europe, even as it navigates these setbacks in its service offerings.