Night train in France & Europe

Travelling by night train is already a unique experience. But did you know it can be made even more rewarding thanks to a dedicated loyalty programme? Designed to reward regular travellers, this programme lets you build up benefits with every trip.

Signing up for the loyalty programme is free and done directly online via the company's customer area. Once registered, you access a system of progressive tiers: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum. Each tier unlocks exclusive perks:

• Permanent discounts on tickets
• Priority access to bookings during busy periods
• Access to station lounges (from Gold tier)
• Personalised offers and birthday surprises

To enjoy these benefits, all you have to do is travel regularly. For example, Bronze tier is reached after just 5 trips in 12 months, while Platinum tier requires 30 trips per year. A good excuse to explore Europe by night while saving money.

In short, the more you travel, the more you're rewarded. And with the many destinations served by night trains, there's no shortage of opportunities.

Looking for a good deal to book at a reduced price? Even though the night train company doesn't offer promo codes continuously, special offers can appear at certain times of the year.

Among the best opportunities:

• Summer and winter sales
• Holiday periods (Christmas, New Year, Easter)
• Special events such as Rail Day or "mini-price weekend" campaigns

To avoid missing out, remember to sign up for the official newsletter or follow the company on social media. That way you'll be among the first to receive exclusive offers and any promo codes.

A well-placed code can make all the difference when booking a compartment at a good price. Stay alert, and get ready to set off on your next night getaway… at a lighter price.

Booking a ticket for a night train is now simple, fast and accessible to everyone. Several options are available depending on your habits and preferences.

If you enjoy human contact or the charm of train stations, you can buy your tickets directly at the ticket counter or via an automatic kiosk at most major stations. This booking method remains popular for personalised advice and cash or card payments.

But in 2025, most travellers choose the convenience of digital booking. With platforms like Tictactrip, you can book your tickets online in just a few clicks, any time of day or night. The advantage? You get a clear comparison of available offers: schedules, prices, comfort levels, carbon emissions…

And above all, Tictactrip isn't limited to trains. You can combine different modes of transport – train, bus, carpooling – to create a custom itinerary, optimised for your budget, your time and your preferences. An ideal solution if you're heading to a poorly served destination or looking for the best connection.

Whether you prefer a paper ticket or are a die-hard fan of e-tickets, Tictactrip offers you a smooth, secure experience suited to today's travellers. All that's left is to make your choice… and let yourself be carried away by the magic of night travel.

Travelling alone aboard a night train can be a memorable adventure for a child, but it must take place under strictly regulated safety conditions. That's why night train companies have put specific rules in place depending on the age of the young traveller.

Children under 4

Children under 4 are not allowed to travel alone aboard a night train. They must always be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian in the same compartment. A free or reduced-price ticket may be required, even if they don't occupy a dedicated seat.

Children aged 4 to 11

Some operators offer an unaccompanied minor service (UM service). This service, where available, allows a child to travel alone under the supervision of rail staff. It must be booked in advance and its conditions vary depending on the route and the company.

Without this service, children in this age group must be accompanied by a responsible adult in order to board.

Children aged 12 to 17

From age 12, a minor is generally allowed to travel alone without accompaniment. However, it is recommended to provide:

• A written parental authorisation
• A valid ID

These documents may be requested during an inspection on board or at the station.

To remember before departure

• Check the exact conditions with the rail company when booking.
• Where possible, opt for a private compartment for unaccompanied minors, for more comfort and safety.
• Inform the child about the course of the journey and give them useful contacts in case of need.

Night train companies make sure young travellers are properly supervised. By preparing the trip correctly and following the rules in force, a minor can have a wonderful travel experience, in complete safety.

Travelling by night train with your pet is entirely possible, provided you follow a few simple rules. Whether you're going on a short trip or crossing Europe, your faithful companion can join you in the best conditions.

Prices: the price of the ticket for a pet mainly depends on its size:

• Under 6 kg: the ticket generally costs €7. The animal must travel in a suitable bag or carrier.
• Over 6 kg: a ticket equivalent to 50% of the 2nd class fare is required, even if you're travelling in 1st class.

Transport conditions: to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers:

• Small animals must be transported in a closed rigid or soft carrier, not exceeding 45 x 30 x 25 cm.
• Larger animals must be kept on a leash and wear a muzzle for the whole journey.

Animals accepted on board night trains:

• Dogs: regardless of their size, they are allowed with an appropriate ticket.
• Cats: provided they're transported in a compliant cage.
• Small rodents (rabbits, hamsters…): accepted in secure cages.
• Birds: they must travel in a closed, stable cage.

Before your departure, we recommend informing the company of your pet when booking to make sure the right conditions are in place on board.

At Night train, we care about making every trip pleasant – for you, and for your feathered or furry companions. Prepare your journey with peace of mind and enjoy a calm night… in good company.

Taking the night train means treating yourself to a moment of comfort and calm in the middle of the night. But for the experience to stay pleasant from start to finish, it's best to plan ahead for luggage. Indeed, a bad surprise when boarding can quickly spoil your trip.

Most night train companies in Europe allow up to two small bags or handbags, as well as one cabin bag per passenger, at no extra charge. As a guide, a standard-size cabin bag (about 55 x 40 x 23 cm) is accepted on board and can generally be stored in the spaces above your seat or in your compartment.

If you're travelling for longer or carrying more personal belongings, you can bring an extra bag, but additional fees may apply depending on the company. We recommend checking the exact conditions when booking on Tictactrip or directly on the carrier's website.

Transporting specific luggage on board night trains

Some bulkier items may also be accepted, under certain conditions. Here are the most common cases:

• Musical instruments: guitars, cellos or other medium-sized instruments are allowed on board, provided they're well protected in a rigid case. They count as a piece of hand luggage, so are included in your allowed quota.
• Sports equipment: skis, snowboards or bulky sports bags are accepted if properly packed in a cover. They too count as luggage, and must be transported within the space limits on board.

Some trains have luggage carriages or dedicated spaces for bulky equipment. This service may require booking or additional fees depending on the line.

In short, while night trains are flexible when it comes to luggage, it's essential to know the rules in advance to avoid any bad surprises. Remember to travel light, organise your belongings well and anticipate specific needs: that way, you'll fully enjoy your night on the rails, with peace of mind.

The unexpected can always happen before a trip, and night train companies know this well. That's why most tickets can be cancelled, under certain conditions linked to the type of fare chosen when booking.

Cancellation rules generally vary according to three types of tickets:

• Flexible ticket: allows cancellation free of charge up until the day before departure. This is the most flexible option for travellers whose plans might change.
• Semi-flexible ticket: cancellation remains possible, but fees (often €10 to €20) may apply depending on how close to departure it is.
• Non-exchangeable / non-refundable ticket: no cancellation or refund is provided, except in exceptional cases (illness, force majeure, etc.), and subject to supporting documents.

If you need to cancel a ticket, remember to do so before the train departs. After that deadline, even flexible tickets are no longer refundable.

If a cancellation is accepted, the refund can happen in two ways depending on the company's policy:

• Full refund by bank transfer or card (for flexible tickets).
• Partial refund, after deducting fees, for semi-flexible tickets.
• Digital voucher to use on a future trip, valid for several months, offered in some cases instead of a direct refund.

Refund times vary between 3 and 15 business days, depending on the operator. Some companies also allow you to exchange your ticket for another date or time, often free of charge, if you don't want to cancel your trip entirely.

Finally, in case of a significant delay or train cancellation caused by the company, you're entitled to a full refund or an alternative solution (free exchange or rerouting). These rights are guaranteed by European rail transport regulations.

Before booking, it's strongly recommended to carefully read the cancellation and refund conditions linked to your fare. And if you book via Tictactrip, all this information is shown to you as soon as you choose your ticket.

In addition to choosing your class, some night trains also offer specific options, such as booking a "women-only" compartment, much appreciated by female travellers wanting more peace of mind. Other companies allow you to book an entire compartment privately, even in second class, for more privacy.

What's more, tickets can sometimes include extra services depending on the line: full bedding, breakfast, bottle of water, wake-up service… A special touch that turns a simple journey into a real travel experience.

Before buying your ticket, remember to check the exchange or cancellation conditions. Some offers are non-refundable, while others, more flexible, allow changes up until a few hours before departure. A detail that can make all the difference in case of the unexpected.

Finally, whether you choose a printed ticket or an e-ticket, a shared or private cabin, don't forget that your choice directly affects your comfort, your budget, and also how you experience the night train. Because deep down, it's not just about the destination, but about how you travel.

Night train travel should be accessible to everyone. That's why night train companies in Europe have set up specific services for people with disabilities or reduced mobility. Here's an overview of the facilities provided on board to guarantee a comfortable and worry-free journey.

Trained staff are present on board to assist travellers who need help. From boarding to disembarking, these agents are available to help, guide and ensure the trip runs smoothly.

For wheelchair users, some cabins are fully adapted: easier access via ramp, extra space, and furniture redesigned for comfortable use of the space. These cabins are usually located near priority access points and adapted toilets.

Travellers with mobility difficulties who don't need a wheelchair can book specific seats located near doors or easily accessible areas. A small adjustment that noticeably improves travel comfort.

Visually or hearing impaired passengers benefit from visual and audio facilities on board: clear voice announcements, bright information screens, and adapted signage. These elements make it easier to travel independently and understand the different stages of the journey.

To ensure optimal assistance, it is strongly recommended to report any disability when booking. This allows companies to arrange the necessary assistance both at the station and on board.

Night trains are evolving to become truly inclusive spaces, where everyone can travel safely, with dignity and comfort. It's a concrete way of making travel accessible to all, by night as well as by day.