Rail travel enthusiasts have something to look forward to in 2024 as Czech public transport operator Leo Express unveils plans for an ambitious multi-country service across Europe.
The proposed route, under consideration by Belgium’s Railway Transport regulator, will traverse four countries, promising an exciting journey from Belgium to Slovakia with stops in Germany and the Czech Republic.
If approved, the direct service will connect Ostend in Belgium to Bratislava in Slovakia, offering travellers a 19-hour adventure filled with scenic views and cultural experiences.
Departing from Ostend at 6:15 am, the train is set to make over 50 stops at major city break destinations, including Bruges, Ghent, Brussels, and Liège in Belgium, followed by more than 20 cities in Germany such as Aachen, Cologne, Hanover, Leipzig, and Dresden.
The journey continues through the Czech Republic with a scheduled arrival in Prague at 8 pm before venturing through the night with stops in Slovakian cities Kuty and Malacky, culminating in the arrival at Bratislava just after 1 am the following morning.
Leo Express aims to launch the service in both directions pending approval, with similar departure and arrival timings for the return journey.
While the epic route is still pending approval, issues over access to Belgian infrastructure are being addressed. If given the green light, the service will launch between late 2024 and early 2025, providing passengers with a convenient and scenic travel option.
In addition to the proposed Belgium-Slovakia route, Leo Express has already made strides in enhancing rail travel within Slovakia. At the end of last year, the company took over services between Bratislava and Komárno in Slovakia, offering 100 daily connections along the route since its launch on December 10th.
With these developments, Leo Express is poised to become a key player in promoting rail travel across Europe, offering travellers convenient and efficient transportation options to explore the continent’s diverse landscapes and cultures.