By night train from Prague to Košice
Košice? The city at the eastern end of Slovakia might not be high on many travel lists. Unjustly so! Whether as a starting point for a trip to the High Tatras or for exploring the largely car-free old town – Košice is well worth a visit.
Košice is especially convenient to reach by night train. On my previous trips, I always traveled with the Czech or Slovak railways, which offer various connections from Prague and Bratislava. This time, I wanted to try another option: Regiojet. With its yellow trains and buses, the private company connects Prague with many European destinations. The concept: solid comfort at a low price.
Starting point in Prague
My journey begins in Berlin. And in style: traveling on the Eurocity through the picturesque Elbe Valley, I enjoy a meal in the dining car before arriving in Prague in the evening. I securely store my luggage and take a short walk through the city. Those who prefer to stay nearby can relax in Regiojet’s small lounge.
Back at the main station, a crowd has already gathered in front of the departure board. In the Czech Republic and Slovakia, the platform is only announced shortly before departure. Our night train to Košice finally pulls in on one of the slightly gloomy outer platforms next to the main hall.
In addition to seating cars of various comfort levels – from simple row seats to business compartments – Regiojet also offers “sleeping cars.” A closer look reveals classic couchette cars from the former Deutsche Bahn fleet. I booked a single compartment, which can cost as little as €60 if booked in advance. A few days before departure, I paid €120 – still a very good deal compared to other night trains in Europe.
Solid comfort
The cars may be a bit dated, but Regiojet makes an effort to get the most out of them: the bunks are freshly made upon boarding, and the train staff is friendly and dedicated.
As a solo traveler, the compartment feels almost luxuriously spacious. On one side, all three bunks are folded down and made up with sheets, a blanket, and a pillow. I can choose my favorite spot. Tip: the top bunk is slightly shorter. If you're taller than 1.80 m, it's better to sleep on the lower or middle one.
On the opposite side, the two upper bunks are folded up, creating a cozy bench seat below. Luggage fits easily above the door or under the bunks. Two power outlets by the window are supposed to provide electricity, but in my compartment they didn’t work. The Wi-Fi, however, worked flawlessly.
Through the night
Shortly after departure, the conductor brings a bottle of water and an orange juice. For a few extra euros, you can also order food or a nightcap. Tickets are not checked – as long as the compartment is occupied as booked, it's assumed everything is in order.
Since the journey lasts about eight hours, I soon prepare for bed. At the end of the car, there's a toilet and a separate washroom, both spotlessly clean and lovingly decorated with flowers and incense sticks. In the compartment, I pull the curtain across the door and secure it with the chain. Unfortunately, it can't be locked from the outside – solo travelers should take valuables with them when going to the toilet.
Between midnight and 5:30 AM, it's quiet time. Anyone with requests should speak up in advance. For a night train, Regiojet stops fairly frequently, so I wake up a few times. Overall, the ride is a bit bumpier than on newer trains. Still, I sleep surprisingly well.
Arrival in Košice
In the early morning, I wake up somewhere in Eastern Slovakia. The High Tatras passed us during the night, and it was too early for a view of the peaks. Shortly after, the conductor brings a cup of instant coffee and a croissant – not an extensive breakfast, but a nice gesture nonetheless.
In the final kilometers, we follow the Hornád River as the sun slowly breaks through the morning mist. Right on time, just after six, we reach Košice. It's a shame – I wouldn’t have minded if the journey had lasted a little longer.
As the station slowly comes to life, I walk toward the old town. Just a few steps, and I'm already in the middle of the expansive pedestrian zone. In front of me are the cathedral, the national theater – and a full day ahead. Thanks to the night train!
Regiojet: my conclusion
The Regiojet to Košice is not a night train for late risers. Those who enjoy the comfort of a "real" sleeper car might be disappointed. However, it excels with cleanliness, friendly service, and affordable prices. Overall, it's a solid option for those who want to travel comfortably and relaxed without much luxury.
Check night train connections from Prague to Košice here
About the Author: Sebastian Wilken is a passionate (night) train traveler and writes about train journeys in Europe on his blog, Zugpost. In this guest post, he shares his personal perspective.
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