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A new night bus network has now launched in Europe, with routes connecting some of the continent’s key tourist destinations.
Run by Swiss transportation company Twiliner, the service aims to close “the comfort gap in long-distance travel”.
The sleeper bus began operations in November, with stops across Switzerland, Luxembourg, Belgium, the Netherlands and Spain.
It gives eco-conscious travellers another long-distance transport alternative to short-haul flights.
Twiliner claims journeys on their coaches are as sustainable as going by train and save 85 per cent of CO2e emissions compared to flying.
It adds that vehicles run on HVO diesel, a renewable fuel derived from waste fats and vegetable oils.
A night bus with seating like an aeroplane business class
Twiliner has also made comfort a top priority for its coaches, with facilities similar to those found on sleeper trains.
The seats are the first on a bus in Europe to completely transform into beds at the push of a button, allowing travellers to get some shut-eye when they choose during the journey.
The 21 seats (18 located on the upper deck and 3 on the lower) have been modelled on those found in business class on planes, with pillows and blankets provided.
Each seating area also has electrical outlets, a table, and individual reading lights, along with complimentary internet access. There is a small storage compartment to keep personal items within easy reach.
On the lower deck, passengers can get ready for bed in the spacious bathroom and changing room facilities (though showers aren’t available).
Also on this level is a snack bar, where travellers can find light refreshments. Coffee and water are free.
In terms of luggage, passengers are permitted to bring one large suitcase that adheres to Twiliner’s specifications (maximum 23kg; 80 x 50 x 35cm) plus one carry-on item (maximum 5kg; 50 x 30 x 20cm).
Additional items like bicycles, skiing equipment, and surfboards can be brought on board as long as they have been booked in advance.
Night bus network aims to connect 25 European cities by 2028
When it launched in November, the company started with two routes: Zurich to Amsterdam, stopping in Basel, Luxembourg, Brussels and Rotterdam; and Zurich to Barcelona with a stop in Girona.
Buses run several times a week – likely increasingly to daily next year – and prices begin at around €180 one way.
There are no other scheduled rest stops during journeys, except for obligatory driver changes.
Twiliner notes that their service isn’t appropriate for families with small children, as passengers under five years old are not permitted to travel.
Older children are welcomed on board, “as long as they are familiar with long-distance travelling and can take the quiet, sleep-friendly environment into consideration.”
Ultimately, the company aims to have a continent-wide network of overnight bus services that complements current night train operations, with a view to connecting Europe’s 25 most visited cities within three years.
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