Slovak Rail | PolishTrains

At a glance

• ZSSK operates a national network covering six train categories from local Os trains to premium EuroCity and EuroNight services
• The Bratislava–Kosice route takes around 5 hours and is one of the most popular domestic connections
• EuroNight overnight trains offer seats, couchettes and full sleeping compartments with breakfast included
• The Motorail service carries cars and motorcycles on the Bratislava–Humenné overnight route
• InterCity and EuroCity trains feature Wi-Fi, 230 V sockets, dining options and facilities for reduced mobility passengers
• ISIC card holders receive a 51% discount; children under 4 travel free on all ZSSK services

The national carrier Slovak Rail (ZSSK) operates a diverse network of services, including both local and long-distance trains, which also operate beyond Slovakia's borders.

Osobný vlak (Os) are trains that stop at essentially all stations and stops, serving mainly regional connections. Regionálny express (REX) and Zrýchlený vlak (Zr) are faster regional trains, providing access between major cities with a limited number of stops.

Longer distances are covered by Rýchlik (R) and Expres (Ex) - long-distance trains that form the backbone of ZSSK's domestic services. The highest standard is offered by InterCity (IC), EuroCity (EC) and EuroNight (EN), providing fast and comfortable domestic and international travel, including to the Czech Republic, Poland, Austria and Hungary.

ZSSK's fleet consists of both modern multiple units - electric and diesel - and modernised coaches running on national and international routes. In recent years, the carrier has introduced vehicles from manufacturers such as Stadler equipped with quieter drives, air conditioning and an energy recuperation system to reduce power consumption.

On InterCity and EuroCity trains, travellers have 230V sockets, Wi-Fi, tables, modern vacuum toilets and space for bicycles. Family areas are available on many trainsets, as well as facilities for people with reduced mobility, including low-floor entrances.

Catering facilities are available on board selected trains - either in dining cars or via mobile catering. On EuroNight overnight trains, passengers can choose between a seat, couchette or full sleeping compartment with bedding and breakfast included in the ticket price.

The Slovak Rail network covers the whole of Slovakia - from Bratislava to Košice and from Poprad to Banská Bystrica . The most popular national routes are:

🚆Bratislava**- Košice**, operated by R or Ex trains in about 5 hours,

🚆Bratislava**- Poprad-Tatry**, a connection ideal for tourists heading to the mountains. Takes about 4 hours and is served by Ex category trains.

🚆Bratislava**- Prešov**, connecting two major Slovak cities,

🚆Košice**- Cierna nad Tisou** - route leading towards the border with Ukraine.

Slovak Rail operates an extensive network of international connections, linking Slovakia with most of the neighbouring countries of Central Europe . The Slovak carrier's trains run regularly to Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Hungary and Ukraine, providing quick and convenient access to both capital cities and popular tourist destinations.

ZSSK maintains regular connections to Poland, including Cracow, Katowice and Warsaw. During the summer season, connections are also launched: Medzilaborce - Sanok, Medzilaborce - Rzeszów (in cooperation with POLREGIO) and Poprad-Tatry - Muszyna (in cooperation with Małopolska Railways).

😴Slovak Rail offers the possibility to travel comfortably after dark with night connections operated by REX, R and RR category trains. Daily services provide convenient connections on the routes** Bratislava - Košice, Prague - Košice or Humenné - Bratislava**, allowing for a peaceful night's sleep while travelling through Slovakia and neighbouring countries.

There is a choice of seated compartments, couchettes and sleeping cars, allowing you to tailor your journey to your individual preferences and budget. All night carriages are air-conditioned and, in the case of sleeping cars , passengers can expect a hygiene kit, hot drinks and a light breakfast. With overnight trains, you can save time and accommodation costs while gaining the unique experience of travelling through the picturesque regions of Slovakia in the comfort of your own compartment.

Slovak Rail allows cars and motorbikes to be transported on selected routes as part of the Motorail service, allowing you to travel comfortably by train and then continue your journey in your own vehicle. The most popular motorail route is Bratislava - Humenné, served daily by a night train. Cars and motorbikes are transported in special carriages and passengers can rest in comfortable compartments during this time. It is possible to order a seat for a vehicle online or at ticket offices, although it is advisable to do so in advance due to the limited number of seats. The service is particularly attractive for those travelling long distances, planning a holiday in the mountains or wishing to avoid driving for hours. Prices depend on the route and the weight of the vehicle and range from €39 to €249 - a detailed list can be found on the carrier's website.

Travellers planning a trip to Slovakia can easily plan their route through the PolishTrains platform, which provides the opportunity to purchase tickets for Slovak Rail trains. The service provides up-to-date information on routes, transfers and departure times, and a helpline can be contacted in Polish if necessary. Tickets can be purchased up to 30 days before the departure of the train. ZSKK also provides special offers for senior citizens from Slovakia and other EU countries (including free travel, on the basis of an identity document), as well as student discounts for ISIC card holders .

Thanks to this cooperation, travel in Slovakia or to neighbouring countries becomes fast, simple and safe.