In a post-coronavirus world, one may expect a sudden boom in flights, trips and vacations. While modern jet-setting is appreciated for its conveniences, sometimes travelers prefer a relaxing journey instead. Living in an age when technology is king and flights are abundant, sleeper trains provide an opportunity to slow the pace of packed itineraries and immerse riders into a unique experience. They can almost be compared to cruises, as the trains function as both transportation and a place to rest. In Europe, sleeper trains have grown in popularity as the pace of life accelerates. There are several sleeper trains, and Norway’s Dovre Railway, Russia’s Trans-Siberian Railway and the Thello between Paris and Venice, Italy, are worth focusing on.
Norway’s Dovre Mountains in the winter. Ggranvik. CC BY-NC 2.0.
The Dovre Railway, Norway
The Dovre Railway, stretching from Oslo to Trondheim in Norway, is one of the only sleeper trains in the country. The rail network in Norway was challenging to build due to the country’s stiff mountain peaks and various tunnels, but it is perfectly suited for those who want to experience this mountainous country without physically traversing the terrain.
A train in Oslo, Norway. Don Ramey Logan. CC BY-SA 3.0.
The Dovre Line specifically winds through the Dovre Mountains, creating stunning views as it travels along the country’s national parks. Nature is close, and musk oxen may even come up to the train when it is stopped.
Musk ox in Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park. Fakepeterpan. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.
In total, the trip takes about seven hours with several stops, but the stunning scenery makes the trip well worth it.
View from inside a Trans-Siberian Railway train. Wazari. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.
The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
Another journey known for its mountain views is Russia’s Trans-Siberian Railway, but the length of the trip is what makes it one of the most famous railways in the world. There are three routes along the railway, and the longest of the three, between Moscow and Vladivostok, covers 5,772 miles and takes seven days to travel. Along the journey, one gets to witness not only the snow-covered Siberian landscape and the Ural Mountains but also cities such as Irkutsk, known as the “Paris of Siberia” for its neoclassical architecture and finely detailed structures.
The Irkutsk Train Station in Russia. Luxury Train Club. CC BY-SA 2.0.
While many opt to stay in hotels along the way, the Golden Eagle train offers travelers amenities such as double beds, a wardrobe, a TV and DVD player, storage space and heated tiles in the shower room. Riding along the Trans-Siberian Railway in this manner confirms why the journey is so famous.
Thello train in the countryside. Bahn.photos. CC BY-ND 2.0.
The Thello, France and Italy
The Thello, which runs from Paris to Venice, Italy, provides an entirely different atmosphere than the previous trips. Connecting two of Europe’s most famous cities, the Thello train stands as the only overnight route from France to Italy. Riding this train allows one to embrace the French countryside before the route bends through the snowy Swiss Alps and dives back into the Italian countryside.
Thello arriving in Milan, Italy. Bahn.photos. CC BY-ND 2.0.
In addition to romantic views, it is also a comfortable trip according to travelers, with plenty of room to sleep and incredible dining options. Being the only train of its kind to travel from France to Italy, it is not a surprise that this train is frequently taken by both Europeans and international travelers.
While sleeper trains are not the most common way to travel, what they provide is an incomparable opportunity to slow down and enjoy the ride.
Renee Richardson
is currently an English student at The University of Georgia. She lives in Ellijay, Georgia, a small mountain town in the middle of Appalachia. A passionate writer, she is inspired often by her hikes along the Appalachian trail and her efforts to fight for equality across all spectrums. She hopes to further her passion as a writer into a flourishing career that positively impacts others.