Exploring Europe by Night Train
Night trains show Europe from a new perspective – uncovering the landscapes, wildlife, and people along the way.
In this four-part documentary series, we travel the continent’s most spectacular night train routes, uncovering the landscapes, wildlife, and ecosystems along the way. Encounters with fellow travelers highlight their deep connection to nature. Travel with us from Germany to Scandinavia and through Hungary, Austria, Switzerland, as well as across the Balkans to the edge of Istanbul. Each journey moves through the night into the first light of morning.
Episodes
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From Berlin to Stockholm
On the journey by night train from Berlin to Stockholm, magical Baltic Sea landscapes and hidden islands glide past in the first light of dawn. Porpoises can be spotted in the Öresund, whilst moths and open-water swimmers can be seen at the northernmost tip of Denmark. Travellers also celebrate Midsummer and discover ancient customs, floral rituals and dances.
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From Villach to Edirne
In the height of summer, the Optima Express travels across the Balkans – past glaciers, bear-inhabited forests and villages full of storks, through primeval forests and marshlands. The night train takes around 38 hours to travel through Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia and Bulgaria to Edirne in Turkey. Many of the passengers are former migrant workers who have now become regulars on the Optima Express.
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From Budapest to Zurich
Crossing the Alps in the middle of the night: the route of the night train from Budapest to Zurich takes in savannah-like reed beds, passes through Vienna and the Karwendel in Tyrol, and winds its way through the Swiss Lake District. Along the way, a train attendant shares insights into her life between the sleeper carriages and the starry sky. Upon arrival in Switzerland, we gain an insight into the formation of the Alps.
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From Oslo to Trondheim
A journey by night train from Oslo to Trondheim: from fjord to fjord, the train travels through the June night, past the mysterious Dovrefjell mountains. High up, horse breeders preserve their heritage, whilst down in the valleys the white water rages. The infamous Hessdalen and its UFO enthusiasts tell of mysterious light phenomena amidst a surreal landscape.
Facts
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Original TitleNight Trains
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Year2025
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Length4 × 52' (ENG, GER), 4 × 45' (GER)
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ResolutionHD, 4K
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Film byAnna Moll, Linda Klinkhammer, Eliza Petkova, Tord Olsen
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Produced by
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Partners