Czechia by train

By the Viamo editorial team · Editor Terje Moy · Last updated July 2026 · 5 min read

The Czech Republic is one of the most interesting rail markets in Europe, and not just for the scenery — it has genuine open-access competition, with three operators running rival trains on the same main corridors. České dráhy (ČD), RegioJet and Leo Express all run between Prague and Ostrava (and beyond), and competition has driven down fares and pushed up service quality. Here is how the system works and how to get the most from it.

The three operators

České dráhy (ČD) is the state national operator and the most extensive. It runs the widest range of routes, including many regional and rural services that the private operators do not touch. It operates both standard Intercity services and some international connections.

RegioJet (owned by the Czech company Student Agency) is the most prominent private competitor. It runs comfortable, yellow-liveried coaches and trains, and is particularly well regarded for its on-board service — flight attendants serve drinks and snacks on the train, and the bar car is often busy. RegioJet also operates cross-border services into Slovakia, Austria and Hungary.

Leo Express is the third player, smaller than RegioJet but with a loyal following for its modern trains and competitive fares on the Prague–Ostrava route. It also operates some international services toward Warsaw.

All three operators serve Praha Hlavní nádraží (Prague Main Station), making it easy to compare options without changing stations.

Key routes

From Prague (Praha hl. n.):

• Prague to Brno: around 2h30 on ČD Intercity; RegioJet and Leo Express also serve this corridor. Brno is the country's second city and well worth a visit.
• Prague to Ostrava: around 3h15 by express. All three operators compete on this route, making it one of the cheapest long-distance rail journeys in Central Europe per kilometre.
• Prague to Česky Krumlov: no direct train — go to Český Krumlov via regional train from České Budějovice (about 3h from Prague total).
• Prague to Olomouc: about 2h15 by Intercity.
• Prague to Liberec/Plzeň: regional ČD services, about 1h30–2 hours.

International connections by rail

Prague is well connected by rail to neighbouring countries:

• Prague to Vienna: about 4 hours by Railjet (ÖBB/ČD joint service). Very comfortable and reliable.
• Prague to Berlin: about 4h30 by Railjet or Intercity-Express (EC) services via Dresden.
• Prague to Budapest: about 7 hours, usually requiring a change at Brno or Vienna.
• Prague to Bratislava: about 4 hours by express.
• Prague to Kraków: about 7–8 hours, usually via Ostrava and Bohumín.
• Night train to Zürich/Innsbruck: ÖBB Nightjet services connect from Prague (reservation required).

RegioJet also runs well-regarded services on some of these international routes, particularly toward Slovakia and Vienna. Comparing ČD, RegioJet and Leo Express fares for international legs is worth the few extra minutes of research.

Booking and comparing fares

Each operator has its own website and app:

• ČD: cd.cz (available in English)
• RegioJet: regiojet.com (available in English)
• Leo Express: leoexpress.com (available in English)

For ČD services, you can also book through international rail booking platforms. RegioJet and Leo Express are best booked directly through their own sites. If you are using an Interrail or Eurail pass, be aware that it is valid only on ČD services — pass validity does not extend to RegioJet or Leo Express, which are private operators. See our seat reservations guide for how ČD reservations work with passes.

The Czech rail experience

Czech trains vary considerably in age and comfort. ČD's Intercity and Railjet-branded services are modern and comfortable; older regional stock can be much more basic. RegioJet and Leo Express consistently offer a higher baseline of comfort on the routes they operate — clean trains, wi-fi, and on RegioJet, the attendant service that has won them many fans.

The scenery on many Czech rail routes is gentle and pleasant: rolling hills, forested valleys and historic town centres glimpsed through the window. The route between Prague and Brno passes through Bohemian countryside that rewards a window seat.

Scenic routes worth making

The Prague–Děčín line passes through the Elbe Sandstone Mountains (Böhmische Schweiz) before crossing into Germany toward Dresden — a beautiful stretch particularly in autumn. The Prague–Plzeň line passes through Beroun and the Berounka valley, gentle and attractive. For those heading south, the Prague–České Budějovice line serves as a gateway to South Bohemia and its historic ponds and castles.

Practical tips

• Praha Hlavní nádraží is a grand Art Nouveau building close to Wenceslas Square — easy to reach on Metro Line C (red line).
• The Czech Republic uses the Czech koruna (CZK), not the euro. All three train operators accept card payment, but have cash for smaller purchases in more rural areas.
• ČD station ticket offices can have queues — buy online or at machines to save time.
• Bicycles are carried on many ČD services with advance booking for a small fee.

Frequently asked questions

Which is better: ČD, RegioJet or Leo Express?

It depends on your route and priorities. RegioJet is widely praised for on-board service and comfort on the Prague–Ostrava route and international services. Leo Express is competitive on fares. ČD has the widest network and is the only operator valid with Interrail and Eurail passes. Compare all three for your specific route.

Do Interrail and Eurail passes work in the Czech Republic?

Yes, on ČD services. Passes are not valid on RegioJet or Leo Express, which are private operators outside the pass system. A seat reservation may be required on some ČD express services — check when booking.

How do I get from Prague to Vienna by train?

The Railjet service (operated jointly by ÖBB and ČD) runs from Prague to Vienna in about 4 hours. It is fast, comfortable, and one of the best value international rail connections in Central Europe. Reservation is required.

Is there an overnight train from Prague?

Yes. ÖBB Nightjet operates overnight services from Prague to Zürich, Innsbruck and sometimes other destinations. Check the current Nightjet network for up-to-date routes, as the overnight schedule evolves each year.