Here are the categories of accomodations offered:
- T6: 2 x 3 bunk beds, 2nd class
- T3: 1 x 3 bunk beds, 2nd class
- T4 Comfort: 2 x 2 bunk beds (more headroom), 1st class
- double: 2 x 1 bed, 1st class
- double Excelsior: same as above, shower
- single: 1 bed, 1st class
- single Excelsior: same as above, shower

Next are the various combinations of discount-eligible factors such as age, off-peak, railpass, etc.

A normal sleeping car fare purchased in Europe would be composed of:
- regular Paris-Florence ticket (this is where the distinction between 1st and second class is made when it comes to sleeping cars)
- paid reservation coupon for whichever category of accomodation selected

The regular ticket is the one which could qualify for various discounts, or perhaps even be included in a rail pass.
I believe the reservation for a sleeping car would cost the same for almost everybody.

Obviously, raileurope.com is combining those into a single package, which most probably includes a not-ungenerous commission.


I did Geneva-Florence in a 6 bunk compartment in junior high. I definitely would not want to do it with 5 strangers though. At the time (early 80's), there were many stories about Italian organized thieves turning off the lights in the 18km long Simplon tunnel (with the controller's tacit, and helpless, approval), and robbing confused and/or sleepy passengers' belongings even from locked cabins (those locks can be opened with a standard pass key). Until they broke into a compartment full of American football players one day

Not heard much about this lately (Yougoslavs offering sleep-inducing drinks are the latest scourge), but I would block the door with a suitcase anyway...