Published on
August 10, 2025 |
In an exciting development for European rail travel, Leo Express, the Czech-based subsidiary of Spain’s national train operator Renfe, has unveiled plans for a sleeper service that will cover a 750-mile route from Ostend, Belgium, to Bratislava, Slovakia. Set to launch in December 2026, this new service promises to offer a unique and efficient travel experience for those looking to traverse a diverse range of European cities by rail.
The proposed train journey will span a total of 19 hours, making it a relatively long-haul sleeper route. However, the planned stops along the way, including major European cities such as Brussels, Cologne, Hanover, Dresden, and Prague, will make this train service an appealing option for a variety of travelers. The sleeper train is set to provide a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying between these destinations.
A New Chapter in European Rail Travel
Europe’s rail network has long been a popular choice for travelers seeking an alternative to air travel, with high-speed trains offering quick and comfortable connections between major cities. However, sleeper trains—offering overnight travel with full amenities—have been seeing a resurgence in recent years as more travelers seek sustainable and leisurely modes of transportation.
The Leo Express sleeper train is designed to cater to this growing demand, allowing passengers to travel comfortably overnight, saving time on both travel and accommodation. The train will offer an array of sleeping options, from standard seats to private cabins, ensuring a range of budgets and preferences are met. The journey, which will connect some of Europe’s most famous cities, offers the potential to completely transform the way people view long-distance travel.
Connecting Belgium and Slovakia: A Key Link in European Rail
The planned sleeper train route will be especially beneficial for travelers between Belgium and Slovakia, two countries with strong cultural and economic ties. The train will cover key cities, linking people to vital European hubs, while fostering greater cooperation between nations. For Belgian passengers, the train offers an effortless connection to several major cities in Central Europe, expanding travel options for business and leisure travelers alike.
For Slovakia, the sleeper train will provide a new link to the bustling heart of Western Europe. The Slovak capital, Bratislava, is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination, known for its picturesque Old Town, rich history, and proximity to other Central European cities. With the addition of this sleeper train service, more tourists from Western Europe will be able to easily visit Slovakia, further boosting the region’s tourism sector.
Environmental Benefits: Rail Travel vs. Air Travel
As part of the ongoing efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability, Leo Express’s sleeper train offers an eco-friendly alternative to flying. While the average speed of 39 mph may not seem particularly fast compared to high-speed trains, it still offers a much more sustainable option than air travel. According to environmental experts, trains emit significantly less carbon per passenger than planes, making them a much greener choice for long-distance travel.
Passengers traveling from London to Bratislava will also benefit from a seamless travel experience. They can catch a connecting train in Brussels, arriving in the Slovak capital the next afternoon, making this journey a time-efficient option for those seeking to explore Eastern Europe without the hassle of multiple flights.
Revolutionizing European Tourism
The impact of this new sleeper service on European tourism cannot be overstated. By providing an overnight, comfortable travel option, the Leo Express service will attract both domestic and international tourists looking to explore Europe on a budget or in a more sustainable manner. For instance, tourists from London, who may traditionally have flown to European cities for weekend getaways, will now have an opportunity to travel overnight by train, making the journey more enjoyable and less stressful.
Additionally, travelers will have the option to explore multiple cities along the way. The train’s 50 stops will allow passengers to easily break up their journey and discover lesser-known destinations, thus promoting regional tourism in cities that are often overlooked by mainstream tourists. Stops in cities such as Dresden, Cologne, and Prague, each rich in cultural heritage, will also give travelers the chance to experience the diverse architectural styles, history, and local cultures of central Europe.
The journey through various countries and cultures will offer tourists a unique opportunity to experience Europe from a different perspective. Unlike a flight, which offers limited views and interactions with the landscape, the sleeper train allows passengers to witness the gradual transition between Western and Central Europe, offering an immersive travel experience.
Impact on the Travel Industry: Growth of Cross-Border Rail Travel
This development signals a growing trend toward cross-border rail travel in Europe, with an increasing number of international services being introduced to connect major cities and regions. As rail companies continue to innovate with long-distance and sleeper train services, the rail network in Europe is likely to grow more competitive, making travel by train a viable alternative to flying, particularly for short to medium distances.
Leo Express’s sleeper service could inspire other rail companies to launch similar routes across Europe, further expanding the region’s train network and increasing the convenience of rail travel. As more travelers opt for trains over planes, it will be interesting to see how airlines adapt to the competition posed by an expanding European rail network.
A New Era for Train Travel in Europe
In the past, overnight trains were a popular choice for travelers seeking to cover long distances across Europe. However, with the rise of budget airlines and high-speed trains, sleeper services became less common. Now, the introduction of this sleeper service by Leo Express represents a revival of the overnight rail journey, which could spark renewed interest in train travel.
As cities and countries begin to recover from the disruptions caused by the pandemic, it is clear that many travelers are eager for more leisurely, eco-friendly travel experiences. The new Leo Express sleeper train may be one of the key players in reshaping the way people travel across Europe, offering a perfect blend of comfort, sustainability, and adventure.
Future Prospects for the European Rail Market
Looking ahead, the potential for sleeper trains to revolutionize the European travel market is significant. The growing demand for sustainable travel options, combined with the convenience of overnight services, means that more travelers are likely to consider sleeper trains as their mode of choice for long-distance travel. As more routes are added and the market for cross-border train services continues to expand, Europe could see a dramatic shift in how people approach intercontinental travel.
The future of sleeper trains in Europe is promising, as countries and rail operators invest in infrastructure, technology, and services designed to meet the demands of modern travelers. For many, the sleeper train offers an enticing combination of comfort, efficiency, and sustainability, making it a viable alternative to flying across the continent.
In conclusion, Leo Express’s new 19-hour sleeper train service is poised to have a significant impact on European tourism and cross-border travel. With its ability to connect major cities, promote regional tourism, and offer an environmentally friendly travel option, the service promises to reshape the way Europeans explore their continent. This development could signal the beginning of a new era for long-distance rail travel in Europe, where comfort, culture, and sustainability go hand in hand. As travelers look for new ways to explore the continent, services like the Leo Express sleeper train will undoubtedly become an increasingly popular choice.
Picture Custody: Leo Express
