Cabin comparison Seat vs Couchette: which night-train cabin should you pick?
A side-by-side look at Seat and Couchette on night trains — what you actually get, how much privacy and sleep to expect, and what each typically costs.
Side by side
| Seat | Couchette | |
|---|---|---|
| Privacy | ||
| Comfort | ||
| What you get | 1 reclining seat | 4-6 berths per compartment (shared) |
| Ideal for | Budget travellers on shorter overnight hops | Budget travellers, groups and solo travellers watching costs |
| Typical price from | €19 | €35 |
Which one should you book?
Costs about €16 less- Budget travellers on shorter overnight hops
- Reclining seat
- Power socket (most trains)
- More privacy
- More comfort
- Budget travellers, groups and solo travellers watching costs
- Fold-down bunk with sheet and blanket
- Shared compartment (with your group or strangers)
*Typical prices — they vary by route, operator and season. Updated 2026-07.
Routes where you can choose either
Rome 
14h 00m
Nightjet
Common questions
What is the difference between Seat and Couchette?
The cheapest way to travel overnight, in a shared open or compartment seating car similar to a daytime train. Comfort varies significantly by operator and rolling-stock age, and sleep quality is generally the lowest of the four categories. A budget berth in a compartment of four to six bunks, shared with other passengers unless the whole compartment is booked out. It is the classic backpacker night-train experience — basic but functional.
Is Couchette worth the extra money?
Costs about €16 more. A budget berth in a compartment of four to six bunks, shared with other passengers unless the whole compartment is booked out. It is the classic backpacker night-train experience — basic but functional.
Which is better for solo travellers?
Couchette: Budget travellers, groups and solo travellers watching costs. Seat: Budget travellers on shorter overnight hops.