A new, extensive train service, set to become one of Europe's longest direct rail connections, will commence operations this month, linking key cities across Germany, the Czech Republic, and Poland. Operated by the Czech private rail company Leo Express, the 807-mile journey is scheduled to launch on 25 June, with tickets starting from an accessible price of around £8.65.
The ambitious route will run once daily in both directions, connecting the Polish city of Przemyśl, situated just a few miles from the Ukrainian border, with Frankfurt in Germany. Along its journey, the train will call at popular destinations including Kraków, Ostrava, Prague, Dresden, Leipzig, and Erfurt, offering passengers a comprehensive travel option across central Europe.
Peter Köhler, CEO of Leo Express, highlighted the significance of the new connection. "At over 1,300 kilometres (807 miles), this is one of the longest direct train services in Europe," he stated. Mr Köhler further emphasised the route's role in bridging geographical divides, remarking, "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. In Germany, we are creating an alternative to existing operators."
Passengers opting to travel the entire length of the route can expect a journey time of up to 18-and-a-half hours. For instance, the outbound service, Train 232, departs Przemyśl at 1:31 pm, arriving at Frankfurt Airport the following day at 7:53 am. The return journey, Train 235, departs Frankfurt at 8:27 am, reaching Przemyśl at 2:23 am.
The service is designed to offer convenient early morning departures from Saxony and Thuringia to Frankfurt Airport, while in the opposite direction, it provides a direct link from Hessen, Thuringia, and Saxony to the Ukrainian border near Przemyśl. From there, travellers can access connecting trains into Ukraine. Onboard amenities include Wi-Fi, power outlets, air conditioning, and refreshments, with various seating classes such as premium, business, economy plus, and economy.