Schlafwagen

Schlafwagen, German for “sleeper car,” are railway passenger cars equipped for sleeping accommodations during overnight journeys. They typically offer private compartments or open sections with beds (berths) instead of standard seats. Compartments could house two or four berths; many cars included wash facilities at the end of the car and sometimes a toilet inside the compartment. In many railway systems, Schlafwagen were operated in first and second class, with private features, beds, and varying levels of privacy.

Historically, Schlafwagen date from the late 19th century, when trains began to travel longer distances. Early designs featured compartments with two bunks; over time, four-bunk compartments and more elaborate arrangements appeared. Electrification, better lighting, and improved heating increased comfort in the early to mid-20th century. During the 20th century, night trains with Schlafwagen were a common means of long-distance travel across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. After World War II, continued demand supported cross-border services, though competition from air travel and later high-speed rail led to gradual reductions. In many networks, Schlafwagen assets were progressively replaced by couchette cars (Liegewagen) and other sleeper configurations; some routes were discontinued.

Today, Schlafwagen continue to operate on selected night trains in Europe and elsewhere, though most services use a combination of private compartments and couchettes. Modern designs emphasize flexible berths, compact wash facilities, and shared dining or lounge areas; in German-speaking countries the term Schlafwagen remains widely understood, even as contemporary services may be marketed under different names such as Liegewagen or Nachtzug.