So let’s put on a beret, grab a croissant, and head to Vienna. 🇫🇷➡️🇦🇹
There is something inherently romantic about boarding a train in the City of Light and waking up in the City of Music.
The Nightjet (NJ 469) connects Paris and Vienna directly. It follows the historic path of the Orient Express. It whisks you away from the Eiffel Tower in the evening and deposits you near St. Stephen’s Cathedral just in time for breakfast.
Here is why this specific route is the crown jewel of European night trains.
The Schedule
- Departure: Paris Gare de l’Est approx. 19:00 (7 PM).
- Arrival: Vienna Hauptbahnhof approx. 10:00 AM.
- Duration: ~15 hours.
It is a slow journey, but that’s the point. You have time for a nice dinner in Paris, a full night’s sleep, and a lazy morning watching the German/Austrian countryside roll by.
The Cabins: Is Deluxe Worth It?
On this flagship route, the quality of the train cars is generally high.
1. Sleeper Cabin Deluxe (The Romantic Choice)
If you are traveling as a couple, this is what you want.
- Privacy: A private compartment for 2 people (Double) or 3 people (Triple).
- The Shower: Yes, the Deluxe cabin has its own private shower and toilet inside the room. No walking down the corridor in your pajamas!
- Perks: Welcome bag (slippers, earplugs, snacks), sparkling wine (prosecco), and a extensive breakfast menu served in your room.
2. Couchette (The Practical Choice)
- Privacy: Shared compartment for 4 or 6.
- Amenities: Shared bathroom in the corridor. Breakfast is simpler (coffee + bread roll).
- Price: Significantly cheaper than Sleeper.
The Route & Scenery
You travel through France, Germany (stopping in Strasbourg, Munich), and Austria.
The best part is the morning. You wake up around Salzburg. The train winds through Upper Austria—expect green rolling hills, church steeples, and misty rivers.
Dinner Tip (Crucial!)
The Nightjet has a small menu (goulash, sandwiches), but there is no full restaurant car on this train.
- Recommendation: Eat a fantastic French dinner near Gare de l’Est before you board. Bring a bottle of French wine and some macarons onto the train for a nightcap in your cabin.
Price & Booking
- Seats: From €29 (Don’t do it, it’s too long).
- Couchette: From €59.
- Sleeper: From €100+ per person.
Warning: This train sells out weeks in advance, especially the Deluxe cabins. Book as early as possible (up to 6 months ahead).
Hotels in Vienna: Vienna has great hotels close to the station (e.g. Motel One or the luxurious Hotel Sacher). Booking.com: “Stay near the Opera in Vienna.”
Summary
Is it faster to fly? Yes (2 hours).
Is it better? No.
Flying is stress. Taking the Nightjet from Paris to Vienna is an event. It’s a hotel room that moves. By the time you arrive in Vienna, you are rested, fed, and ready for a slice of Sachertorte.
Book your tickets: Check availability on Trainline or the Nightjet official site.
