How to Book Train Travel From Czech Republic to Slovakia

Taking the train from the Czech Republic into Slovakia is certainly simpler and more comfortable than navigating the poorly maintained, infrequently marked and often difficult-to-navigate roads in the region. If you're not fluent in either language, and would like to save added insurance fees associated with taking rental cars into this region, relax on a train instead!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Passport
• Major credit card
• Computer with Internet access for advance online booking

Purchase Tickets for Travel From Czech Republic to Slovakia

1. Book your tickets directly through the Rail Europe Web site (see Resources) or talk to a ticketing agent at (888) 382-RAIL.
2. Reserve sleeper car accommodations for greater security and privacy on evening trains to enjoy free meals, refreshing rest and more room; but book early. These accommodations are limited.

Prepare for Your Czech Republic to Slovakia Train Trip

3. Secure your valuables with locked luggage and lighter loads. Trains in Eastern Europe are often riddled with unsavory sorts who will pickpocket if given the opportunity.
4. Arrive to either of Prague's busy stations aboard the Red Line for the easiest, most efficient transit into the stations.

Create Your Itinerary for Travel Between Czech Republic and Slovakia

5. Select either Hlavni Nadrazi station or Praha Holesevic station, both of which are major hubs in Prague, depending upon where you will be coming from. Remember rush hour traffic is cruel on the streets, so avoid these times if at all possible.
6. Know that travel into Bratislava averages 5 hours from either of Prague's stations, while travel into Kosice will cost you 10 hours in transit. Thus, you may wish to book overnight sleeper car travel for trips into Kosice.
7. Choose faster Eurocity and Intercity trains when possible, for quicker travel times between the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Tips & Warnings

• Look into discounts for seniors over 60 and youths under 25 on the Eurail Web site. You can often save quite a bit on multi-leg journeys and unlimited passes.
• Be aware of your surroundings when purchasing tickets in any Czech Republic train station, as criminals are notorious for preying on unsuspecting travelers.
• Never board any train in Europe without a ticket in hand, unless arrest is your idea of a good vacation story!