Startup Nox offers a new take on sleeper trains: private compartments only

A Berlin-based startup is preparing to shake up travel within Europe. Nox, founded by railway enthusiast Thibault Constant and former FlixTrain co-launcher Janek Smalla, plans to launch night train services in 2027 featuring exclusively private compartments — or rooms, as the brand refers to them — at flight-competitive prices across 35 European routes.

The train's accommodation design is a departure from traditional sleeper configurations. Each room will feature two-meter beds, dedicated seating areas with tables, full standing height and integrated luggage storage. Premium options include double beds and panoramic window configurations. Nox claims this layout enables higher passenger density, creating the efficiency needed for competitive pricing, with single rooms starting at EUR 79 and double rooms at EUR 149.

Constant brings credibility to the venture through his Simply Railway social media presence, where he has documented over 400 train journeys to half a million followers. His co-founder Smalla contributed to FlixTrain's European expansion and previously led Bolt's German ridesharing operations.

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Nox's proposition taps into evolving expectations around sustainable consumption — the desire for environmentally responsible choices that not only don't compromise on comfort or convenience, but actually offer a better experience. No waiting in airport queues, no cramped seats on planes or shared compartments on trains.

As climate consciousness (slooooowly) reshapes people's travel decisions, the startup's challenge will be proving it can be economically viable while offering prices that can win over consumers accustomed to cheap flights. Success could validate a new model for short- and medium-haul travel, positioning night trains as genuine flight alternatives.