When will the Brussels-Milan route start operating?
The route is now scheduled to begin on September 9, 2026.
Travel / Travel News
European Sleeper has announced delays for its highly anticipated Brussels-Milan night train route and the Amsterdam connection. Originally slated to launch in June 2026, the Brussels-Milan route is now expected to commence in September 2026...
### Background European Sleeper aims to provide overnight train services connecting major European cities, offering an alternative to flying and driving. The Brussels-Milan route was designed to link key economic and cultural hubs, while the Amsterdam connection would further expand the network's reach.
### Reasons for the Delay The primary reasons cited for the delays are:
1. **Track Work in Germany:** Extensive track maintenance and upgrades scheduled in Germany during the summer of 2026 have made it risky to launch the service as planned. 2. **Swiss Certification Process:** The certification process for operating in Switzerland, which is not part of the EU, requires additional time and paperwork.
### Route Modifications Due to ongoing construction, the train will initially run via the Gotthard Pass instead of the Simplon Pass. This change adds stops in Zürich, Lugano, and Como, providing access to ski resorts and lake regions.
### Impact on Travelers Travelers planning to use the European Sleeper for summer travel will need to adjust their plans. However, the company emphasizes that the new connection remains an important milestone for European rail travel.
### How to Prepare * **Stay Informed:** Monitor European Sleeper's website&ref=yanuki.com for updates and revised schedules. * **Consider Alternatives:** Explore other train routes or transportation options for summer travel. * **Book in Advance:** Once ticket sales open on March 17, book tickets early to secure preferred travel dates and classes.
### Who This Affects Most * Leisure travelers planning summer vacations in Switzerland and Italy. * Business travelers seeking overnight connections between Brussels, Amsterdam, and Milan. * Eco-conscious travelers looking for sustainable transportation options.
The route is now scheduled to begin on September 9, 2026.
The Amsterdam connection has been postponed until 2027 due to track work in Germany and the Swiss certification process.
Ticket sales will commence on March 17, 2026.
It provides convenient access to nearby ski resorts and the lake regions of Lugano and Como.
What are your thoughts on the European Sleeper delays? Will this affect your travel plans? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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