A new sleeper train service has been launched between the historic cities of Vienna and Rome, two of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It is launching at the best time to enjoy fall foliage from the train’s windows. Moreover, the journey won’t break the bank, with ticket prices starting from $44.

Nightjet sleeper train from Vienna to Rome and back

Tickets are available for the brand-new Nightjet sleeper train from Vienna, the cultural heart of Austria, to Rome, Italy’s exquisite capital. Moreover, the train makes several stops along the way, while starting at an affordable ticket price from $44.

As trains become increasingly popular with travelers hoping to reduce their carbon footprint, a sleeper train is one of the most popular options to travel from A to B in comfort, with beautiful views along the way.

Go to bed in Vienna – awaken in Rome

While sleeper trains were defunded for decades, they are now back in fashion in Europe, with ÖBB, Austria’s national railway company, expanding its signature Nightjet service. Moreover, new routes between key cities are being announced. However, among the most exciting launches is the Vienna to Rome train, leaving from the Austrian capital in the early evening and arriving in the Eternal City of Rome in time for a cappuccino and a tasty pastry from a local bakery.

The Nightjet is set to depart the Vienna station daily at 7:18 pm, arriving in Rome’s Tiburtina station the next morning at 11:05 am, with a journey time of 15h47. Meanwhile, for those catching the train from Rome to Vienna, the departure time is earlier, at 5:25 pm, arriving in Vienna at 9:04 am the following morning.

About the destinations

Vienna is renowned as being the most beautiful capital city in Europe and plays host to several Habsburg-era palaces, the State Opera and ornate medieval churches, particularly St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

At the other end of the line, Rome is an open-air museum, with so many attractions, including the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Trastevere district and the Vatican Museums.

Along the journey, the sleeper train calls at several Austrian and Italian stations, including Villach, a pretty spa town at the foot of the Alps. Nightjet also stops in Bologna, the Italian city famous for its twin leaning towers, and Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance.

About the new Nightjet sleeper train

The new sleeper train made its debut on September 10 with a ceremony attended by big names like Austria’s Climate Protection Minister, the country’s national railway CEO and the Italian Ambassador to Vienna.

The railway CEO was noted as saying that the Nightjet is a “game-changer” for sleeper train travel in Europe, taking a “huge leap” in comfort and offering more privacy to passengers traveling between both capitals.

Meanwhile, the seven-car train offers two seating cars, three couchettes and two sleeper cars, totaling 254 seats. Moreover, guests benefit from more luggage space compared to previous sleeper trains, free Wi-Fi and conveniently placed plugs for electronic devices.

About the compartments

As for comfort, the Nightjet is literally a hotel on wheels and those booking the top-end sleeper car (starting from $216.74) will enjoy the same amenities as a mid-range hotel, including private toilet and shower facilities and a bed and breakfast à la carte.

These compartments can accommodate one, two or three people and offer free soap, slippers and earplugs, plus a wake-up call if required.

Next in line is the couchette, which accommodates groups of up to four people and is ideal for families or friends traveling together. Prices here start at $61 per person and on this route, passengers can book adjacent Mini Cabins, a new concept for solo travelers. The Mini-Cabins offer a better sense of privacy compared to the standard couchette, with plenty of shelf space for small items, storage space for bags and a control display for lighting.

Passengers in the couchettes and main cabins share toilet facilities and can enjoy a modest breakfast of coffee or tea, a bottle of mineral water, and two bread rolls and jam.

For those on a budget, the seat car starts from $44 per person in a compartment of up to six passengers, or an open coach. While it is the most affordable option, it could be a long night. However, there is some comfort with an integrated reading lamp and a folding armrest. Here, there is one toilet per coach and drinks and snacks are available for purchase.

Readers can book their tickets for the new Nightjet Vienna to Rome sleeper train here.