New Long-Distance Train Service Connects Germany, Czech Republic, and Poland
A groundbreaking train service is set to launch this month, offering a direct rail connection between major cities in Germany, the Czech Republic, and Poland. This new route promises to revolutionize travel across Central Europe by linking key urban centers with a single, uninterrupted journey.
The service will be operated by Leo Express, a private rail company based in the Czech Republic. The inaugural journey is scheduled for 25 June, with ticket prices starting from €10 (£8.65). The train will run once daily in both directions, making it an attractive option for travelers seeking a unique and efficient way to cross borders.
One end of the route begins in Przemyśl, a Polish city located just a few miles from the Ukrainian border. From there, the train will pass through several popular destinations, including Kraków, Ostrava, Prague, Dresden, Leipzig, and Erfurt, before arriving at Frankfurt in Germany. The entire journey spans over 1,300 kilometers (807 miles), making it one of the longest direct train services in Europe.
Peter Köhler, CEO of Leo Express, emphasized the significance of the new route. “With this new route, we are also removing the iron curtains between Western and Eastern Europe, connecting important European centres and providing access to Ukraine,” he said. “In Germany, we are creating an alternative to existing operators.”
Passengers who choose to travel the entire route in either direction can expect a journey lasting up to 18-and-a-half hours. For example, Train 232 departs from Przemyśl at 1:31 pm and arrives at Frankfurt Airport the following day at 7:53 am. The return service, Train 235, leaves Frankfurt at 8:27 am and reaches Przemyśl at 2:23 am.
This new connection will allow early morning departures from Saxony and Thuringia to Frankfurt Airport, offering a convenient option for travelers heading to or from the region. In the opposite direction, the service provides a direct link from Hessen, Thuringia, and Saxony to the Ukrainian border near Przemyśl, where passengers can take other connecting trains into Ukraine.
Leo Express has ensured that the trains on this route are equipped with modern amenities to enhance the travel experience. Passengers can enjoy free wifi, power outlets, onboard refreshments, and air conditioning. The train also offers different class seat levels, including premium, business, economy plus, and economy, catering to a wide range of traveler preferences.
This new service not only improves connectivity between three countries but also supports cultural and economic exchanges. By reducing the need for multiple transfers and offering a more seamless travel experience, the route is expected to attract both leisure and business travelers.
As the demand for sustainable and efficient transportation continues to grow, the introduction of this long-distance train service marks a significant step forward in regional rail travel. It sets a new standard for cross-border connectivity and highlights the potential for further development in Europe’s rail network.
