A new long-distance rail service set to launch this summer will connect central and eastern Europe in one continuous route, offering passengers one of the continent’s longest direct train journeys, with fares starting from as little as €10.
Prague-based operator Leo Express will begin the inter-European service on 25 June, creating a 1,300-kilometre connection linking Poland, Czechia and Germany with a direct extension towards the Ukrainian border. The service will operate once daily in each direction.
The route begins in Przemyśl in southeastern Poland, close to the Ukrainian border, and travels through Kraków, Ostrava and Prague before continuing into Germany via Dresden, Leipzig and Erfurt. It will then proceed to Frankfurt am Main and terminate at Frankfurt Airport, forming a key east-west transport corridor across multiple European regions.
Leo Express chief executive Peter Köhler said the service is designed to strengthen cross-border connectivity and improve mobility between eastern and western parts of the continent. He described the initiative as a step toward breaking down long-standing transport divides across Europe while improving access to Ukraine through established rail infrastructure.
The westbound journey departs Przemyśl at 1:31 p.m., with arrival at Frankfurt Airport scheduled for 7:53 a.m. the following morning. The return service leaves Frankfurt Airport at 8:27 a.m., reaching Przemyśl at 2:23 a.m. the next day.
According to the company, the timetable has been structured to allow passengers to connect easily with both regional and international travel networks. The early morning arrival in Frankfurt is intended to support onward flights across Europe and long-haul destinations, while the return schedule offers direct links to key cities including Prague and Kraków later in the day.
Köhler said the route will also improve links between major urban centres such as Prague, Dresden, Leipzig, Erfurt and Frankfurt, creating a continuous transport chain across central Europe. He added that the service is expected to appeal to both business and leisure travellers seeking more affordable and sustainable alternatives to air travel.
Onboard services will include Wi-Fi connectivity, power outlets at seats, air conditioning and onboard refreshments. The operator says the aim is to provide a consistent level of comfort across the entire journey despite its extended duration.
With tickets priced competitively, including introductory fares starting at €10 on selected routes, the new service is expected to increase competition in Europe’s long-distance travel market while offering passengers a more direct and cost-effective way to move between key cities across the region.
