Travel with Amateur Traveler Podcast MT#9 - Night Trains in Europe
Sep 3, 2025
Discover the resurgence of night trains in Europe, offering a sustainable travel alternative for the eco-conscious traveler. Explore charming routes like the London to Edinburgh night train and the luxurious Orient Express’s potential new path to Istanbul. Bart shares tips on navigating budget-friendly options across Central and Eastern Europe, ensuring comfort and scenic views. From student steward experiences to innovative features like Mini Suites, the allure of overnight travel comes alive, making every journey feel like a romantic adventure.
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How Night Trains Became His Career
- Bart started working as a night train steward during his student years in the 1990s and kept returning to trains over decades.
- He now runs a train-focused travel agency and still works as a steward for European Sleeper about once a month.
Night Trains Save Time And Reduce Hassle
- Bart says night trains save daytime travel hours and put you in city centers in the morning without airport hassle.
- He highlights the relaxed, romantic atmosphere of private compartments compared with flying.
Milan To Sicily: A Unique Night Route
- Bart's favorite night train is Milan to Sicily where you board in the evening and wake up near Salerno with coastal views.
- The route includes a short ferry crossing where trains are loaded onto the ferry, letting passengers walk the boat briefly before continuing in Sicily.