ÖBB Nightjet Review: Graz to Zürich in a Sleeper Cabin

Traveling between Austria and Switzerland has never been easier or more comfortable than with the ÖBB Nightjet. On my recent journey from Graz to Zürich, I booked a sleeper cabin for two and it turned out to be one of the most comfortable and memorable night train experiences I’ve had in Europe. If you’re looking for a stress-free, eco-friendly and cozy way to travel across the Alps, this guide will help you decide whether the ÖBB Nightjet Graz to Zürich sleeper is worth it.

The Nightjet is the Austrian Federal Railways’ flagship night train service, connecting major European cities with modern sleeper, couchette and seating options. Instead of wasting a day in transit or paying for an extra hotel night, you simply board in the evening and wake up in a new country, refreshed and ready to explore.

The Graz to Zürich route is especially scenic and practical, connecting two vibrant cities with minimal hassle.

Booking the sleeper cabin for two

For this trip, I chose a private sleeper cabin for two people, which is the most comfortable option available.
Here’s what’s included:

• A private lockable cabin
• Two comfortable bunk beds with fresh linens
• A small sink with running water
• Towels and toiletries
• Power outlets
• Breakfast included (coffee, tea, pastry, bread, butter, jam, hazelnut spread, etc. – basically you can choose whatever from the list, 6 components are included, additional will cost you 1.20 EUR). There are also 2 special breakfast options: gluten-free breakfast and vegan breakfast.

You can also request wake-up service if you need it.

Travel time, schedule & price overview

Here are the essential facts:

• Duration: approx. 11 hours
• Typical departure: 22:25 from Graz Hbf
• Arrival: around 9:20 at Zürich HB
• Price range (approx.):
  • Sleeper cabin for two: €160–€280 per person, depending on date, demand and booking window
  • Solo sleeper cabins typically cost more

Prices vary widely, so early booking is best. Nightjet sleepers can sell out quickly.

Onboard experience: what it’s like to travel overnight

Boarding in Graz

The train departs from Graz Hauptbahnhof in the evening, at 22:25. Boarding is easy, with clear signage for the Nightjet carriages. After boarding and finding your cabin, a train attendant will come to check the tickets, explain everything and to take your order for breakfast.

The departure from Graz is usually at 22:25, but our train departed 1 hour earlier because there was work on the track and it was therefore rerouted.

Inside the sleeper cabin

The cabin is surprisingly spacious for a night train. There’s enough room for two medium suitcases and the beds are already prepared with warm blankets and pillows. The soft lighting creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for reading, chatting or simply unwinding after a day of travel.

Facilities

Each sleeper cabin has a washbasin, while showers and toilets are located at the end of the wagon. Everything was clean and well-maintained. You can also order snacks or drinks from the attendant if you need something extra during the night. A bag with some snacks and sleeping accessories was also waiting for us.

The journey itself

As the train leaves Graz, the movement is gentle and soothing. The route crosses the Alps during the night and even though it’s dark, you can occasionally see the silhouettes of mountains or small Austrian towns glowing in the distance.

I had some trouble sleeping and didn’t sleep very well (which has happened to me before when traveling in a sleeper car, which is quite unusual, considering that I can fall asleep easily on a regular train). Perhaps the fact that it was quite cold in the cabin also contributed to this. When I walked through the carriage in the morning, I noticed that the other cabins were much warmer, so I don’t know what happened. I would still recommend taking some warm clothes with you, just in case.

Morning arrival in Zürich HB

Around 6:00–7:00, the attendant wakes you with breakfast. Eating a delicious breakfast and sipping coffee while watching Switzerland pass by is a beautiful way to start the day. You arrive in Zürich HB early in the morning, perfectly timed to begin exploring.

Is the ÖBB Nightjet worth it?

Absolutely!

The ÖBB Nightjet Graz to Zürich sleeper is ideal for:

• Couples
• Friends traveling together
• Anyone who values privacy and comfort
• Travelers wanting to maximize their time in each destination
• Eco-conscious travelers avoiding short-haul flights

The sleeper cabin costs more than a seat or couchette, but the convenience, comfort and included breakfast make it excellent value, especially since it replaces a hotel night.

Tips for your Nightjet journey

• Book early – sleeper cabins sell out quickly
• Bring snacks and water, especially if you board late
• Use earplugs if you’re a light sleeper
• Download your tickets offline; Wi-Fi is not available on board
• Wear comfortable clothes

My journey on the ÖBB Nightjet from Graz to Zürich in a sleeper cabin for two was smooth, cozy and genuinely enjoyable. If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland or exploring the Alps, this is one of the best and most sustainable ways to travel.

On the way to Zurich, the train stops at two Austrian towns that I visited and are worth visiting if you ever find yourself in that part of Austria. One of these is Feldkirch, which borders Liechtenstein and is connected to it by a bus line and the other is Bludenz, home to the Milka chocolate factory, which is a must-visit if you are a chocolate lover.

FAQ: ÖBB Nightjet Graz – Zürich

1. Does the ÖBB Nightjet have Wi-Fi? No, not on this route. Download everything you need beforehand.

2. Are meals included? Breakfast is included for sleeper passengers. Snacks can be purchased at night.

3. Is the sleeper cabin private? Yes, if you book a double cabin, it’s private for you and your travel partner.

4. Can you shower on the Nightjet? Double sleeper cabins do not include a private shower. Showers are available only in deluxe cabins on selected routes. You can still shower (showers and toilets are located at the end of the wagon).

5. How early should you book? As early as possible. Sleeper cabins often sell out weeks in advance.