A major renaissance is coming to overnight train travel in Europe. Berlin-based startup Nox has announced plans to launch a state-of-the-art luxury night train network by 2027, aiming to redefine how people travel between Europe’s major cities after dark. With an emphasis on comfort, privacy, and affordability, Nox is poised to set a new benchmark for sustainable and premium long-distance rail travel.
Bringing a fresh approach to a legacy travel mode, Nox seeks to combine the nostalgic charm of classic sleeper trains with modern-day design and pricing models that appeal to both eco-conscious and comfort-seeking travelers. The company is targeting over 35 key destinations in its first phase, with plans to scale to 100 cities by 2035.
The Visionaries Behind Nox
The leadership team at Nox is comprised of two notable figures in Europe’s transport innovation scene: Thibault Constant, known for his influential rail YouTube channel Simply Railway, and Janek Smalla, co-founder of the successful budget rail line Flixtrain. Together, they represent a potent blend of passion for railways and operational expertise.
Their shared mission? To create a new night train model that competes with low-cost airlines—not just in price, but in overall experience.
What Makes Nox Different?
Traditional European night trains often suffer from cramped shared compartments, outdated interiors, and a lack of personal space. Nox, however, promises to do things differently. Their carriages will consist exclusively of private single or double compartments, all thoughtfully designed to enhance comfort and convenience.
Each unit will feature:
- Two-meter-long beds suitable for taller travelers
- Ample storage space for luggage and personal belongings
- Panoramic windows offering stunning views
- Private seating areas with USB charging ports
- Warm, natural lighting and clean, minimalist interiors
In addition, the company is committed to accessibility, ensuring its trains accommodate travelers with reduced mobility through barrier-free boarding and accessible compartments.
Affordable Luxury: Starting from €79
One of Nox’s most striking propositions is its pricing. Despite the high-end design and private amenities, single compartments will start at €79, while double occupancy options will be available from €149—pricing that puts Nox in direct competition with economy airline tickets across Europe.
“We believe luxury doesn’t have to mean expensive,” said Janek Smalla. “By designing our trains intelligently and efficiently, we’ve struck a balance between style, space, and affordability.”
This cost-efficiency is expected to attract a diverse demographic—from young backpackers seeking privacy to business professionals and families looking for stress-free overnight journeys.
Expansive Network Across Key European Cities
Nox’s first phase will connect 35 European cities, with routes planned to major urban centers such as:
- Paris, France
- Zurich, Switzerland
- Rome, Italy
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Barcelona, Spain
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Warsaw, Poland
This network will provide travelers with an exciting and sustainable alternative to short-haul flights, especially at a time when the EU is pushing for greener transport through the European Green Deal.
By 2035, Nox hopes to connect 100 cities across the continent, making it one of the largest dedicated night train services in modern European history.
Onboard Amenities and Sustainable Travel
Beyond privacy and comfort, Nox plans to offer a comprehensive onboard experience. Amenities include:
- High-quality dining options with locally sourced ingredients
- Dedicated bicycle storage areas to support cycling-tourism integration
- Quiet compartments for uninterrupted rest
- Real-time digital concierge services for travelers
These features are not just luxury additions—they reflect Nox’s core sustainability ethos. By providing seamless integration with other forms of eco-friendly travel (such as biking), Nox directly supports EU goals to reduce short-haul air travel and associated carbon emissions.
Investor Confidence and Project Progress
Nox is currently in the midst of a major funding round and has already secured rolling stock and finalized most interior design elements. These milestones suggest the project is not just a concept, but a tangible and operationally viable initiative.
The startup’s commitment to delivering a functional and market-ready product by 2027 has generated significant investor confidence and placed Nox at the center of Europe’s sustainable mobility movement.
A New Era for European Rail
Nox is more than a train—it’s a symbol of the next era in European travel. As global tourism increasingly favors sustainable, experiential, and slow travel options, Nox is uniquely positioned to lead a revival of night trains for the 21st century.
By offering private comfort, practical pricing, seamless access, and climate-conscious travel, Nox is not just building trains—it’s building a movement.
Travelers weary of red-eye flights, crowded terminals, and minimal legroom now have a bold new alternative: luxurious, restful, overnight journeys across Europe that start and end in the heart of each city.
Conclusion
Nox’s entry into the European travel landscape could not be more timely. With governments, travelers, and climate advocates all pushing for greener transport alternatives, the demand for innovative night rail solutions is stronger than ever. If successful, Nox will not only revive but revolutionize night train travel—making it a preferred mode of sustainable mobility for the future of Europe.
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