Night train - Copenhagen to Berlin

I don't have any problems sleeping on night trains. I splurge for the Deluxe Private Sleeper compartment. It includes a bathroom (toilet/sink/shower), table/chairs, and the beds are configured so that you can watch the scenery go by while lying in bed. Though I've never tried it, I suspect that if went with the cheaper shared couchette bunks, I would be miserable.

I've taken that run. I was in steerage (I think technically 2nd class) without a seat reservation, the train was crowded, and while I could sleep (because I can sleep anywhere) my traveling companion was an exhausted, weepy mess by the time we got to Berlin. So I would recommend NOT skimping, and getting a couchette so you can sleep/not worry about your luggage. Otherwise, I would recommend flying.

Hi, I've taken night trains, not on this particular route, but on longer routes. I would not recommend doing Copenhagen-Berlin on the CNL, not because of the sleep/not sleeping factor. For me that's no problem. The route is too short. If you could do this by day, you can go direct on the ICE or with only one transfer, usually in Hamburg, and be in Berlin within 7 hours. By night it's 9 and 1/2 hrs. Take the early ICE direct which gets you into Berlin before 1630 or so. Most of the ICE heading northwest from Berlin Hbf transfer in Hamburg Hbf. Another reason I myself wouldn't do this route on the CNL is that you're limited to the couchette or sleeper options, neither of which I'm going to pay extra for,...there are no compartment or armchair seats. Arriving at ca. 0430 is another factor, but if it has to be, then I'd say Berlin Hbf is the best station.

While some people can sleep through most anything, most people don't seem to sleep well on them. There is a lot of jostling, noises, snoring, comings and goings from your compartment, it's too hot, it's too cold, and often cramped. I've taken a lot of them and they do have advantages, but I've always been groggy the next day and can't wait to get to my hotel and a hot shower... I've taken everytype of arrangement. Will never recommend just a reclining seat or a compartment (very few of those anymore). The shared couchettes are ok, 4 person is not bad but 6 persons is VERY crowded. A private compartment is awesome of course, but very expensive. If you're in a couchette or better, your luggage is stowed in the room. That can be tight if there are 6 people or some of the bunk-mates did not learn the "pack light" lesson. Other than a private compartment, you sleep in clothing. I change into shorts and t-shirt to be more comfy. Having said all that, flights within Europe have gotten so cheap that flying is faster, easier, more comfy and less expensive. For train trips over 6 hours, flying is a very viable option.

Thank you for all of this information everyone!! I will take everything you said into consideration when making my plans this summer. Thank you, thank you!!