Brussels, Belgium — European Sleeper’s much-anticipated Brussels-to-Venice night train is set to operate at full capacity starting in March, following early complications that forced passengers to switch trains mid-journey.
The Dutch operator launched the service in early February with the promise of a seamless blend of winter sports and city break options, but initial trips were marred by authorization issues on Italian tracks.
Passengers on the debut runs were left frustrated when the train was denied access to Italian railway lines, compelling them to disembark in Innsbruck, Austria, and find alternative routes.
Co-founder Chris Engelsman explained that the problem stemmed from internal authorizations that were not fully aligned, describing the situation as an “inconvenient detour” for early adopters.
Despite these challenges, European Sleeper has quickly moved to resolve the issue, ensuring a smooth journey for future travellers.
Full Service to Venice Confirmed for March
In a significant development, European Sleeper announced that the “Good Night Train” will resume its full route to Venice starting in March.
The train will pass through the picturesque Brenner Pass and make stops at key Italian destinations, including Bolzano/Bozen.
The company has scheduled southbound departures for 4 and 12 March, with northbound trips set for 8 and 18 March.
The extended route is designed to capture the romantic essence of overnight rail travel, offering passengers the allure of waking up in the enchanting city of Venice.
According to Engelsman, the company is committed to delivering a premium overnight experience that combines comfort with convenience.
Balancing Winter Sports and City Escapes
The Brussels-to-Venice service is part of a broader effort to revive night trains across Europe, catering to both winter sports enthusiasts and those seeking a city break.
By stopping at alpine destinations before continuing to Venice, European Sleeper aims to appeal to a diverse demographic of travellers.
The company has also emphasized sustainability as a core part of its mission, positioning overnight trains as a greener alternative to short-haul flights.
“There is a growing demand for environmentally friendly travel options that don’t compromise on comfort,” Engelsman noted.
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Night Train Network
The successful launch of the Brussels-to-Venice service is expected to pave the way for further expansions of European Sleeper’s night train network.
The operator has hinted at potential new routes connecting major European cities, reinforcing its vision of making night train travel an integral part of the continent’s transport ecosystem.
Passenger feedback from the initial journeys has been largely positive despite the early disruptions, with many expressing enthusiasm for the convenience of overnight travel.
As the company moves past its initial setbacks, all eyes will be on the first fully operational trips to Venice in March.
For now, European Sleeper’s focus remains on ensuring that the Brussels-to-Venice service runs smoothly, providing a reliable and comfortable alternative for those looking to explore Europe by rail.
