Experience Europe’s Newest Overnight Sleeper Train: Brussels to Milan

Rail travel in Europe has taken a significant leap forward. European Sleeper, a cooperative between Dutch and Belgian overnight train services, proudly launched its latest Brussels–Milan night train on September 9, 2026. This service offers a direct, low-carbon rail link connecting Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, and northern Italy for the first time.

In collaboration with the Italian rail operator Arenaways (partially owned by Renfe), the service operates three times weekly in each direction. Departing from Brussels-Midi in the evening, the train arrives at Milan’s Porta Garibaldi station the following morning. The route features picturesque stops including Cologne, Zurich, Lugano, Lake Como, and more, providing travelers with breathtaking Alpine views. With tickets in a shared Classic compartment starting from just €49.99 one-way per person, this service presents an affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to air travel.

Beginning December 14, 2026, with the implementation of the new European rail timetable, the service will expand to include stops at Antwerp, Breda, and Eindhoven in the Netherlands. This extension transforms the service into a comprehensive Benelux-to-Italy overnight rail link. The launch of this service is a significant achievement for sustainable European tourism, providing travelers with the opportunity to sleep onboard and awaken refreshed in a new city — without the need for a flight or a hotel night.

Source: Railway Gazette International – European Sleeper launches Brussels to Milano overnight train