Leo Express offers a combination of regional connections within Slovakia, between Bratislava and Komárno, and direct international trains from the Czech Republic to Slovakia. (source: TASR)
Czech private rail operator Leo Express is once again exploring the possibility of transporting passengers from Brussels all the way to Bratislava. The proposed international train would be a night service, starting its route by the sea in the Belgian port of Oostende and terminating in the Slovak capital.
Leo Express has already submitted an application to the Belgian authorities to operate the route, with services potentially commencing at the end of 2026. However, this is not the company’s first attempt at launching such an international connection.
It is the previous attempt that raises doubts about whether the service is realistic, financially viable, or competitive against cheaper and faster alternatives. Even a rail transport expert remains sceptical.
“I do not consider the implementation of this service to be particularly likely,” railway transport expert Jiří Kubáček told Index magazine.
At present, the train journey from Bratislava to Brussels takes over 16 hours and requires at least one transfer.
