Ukrzaliznytsia launches new era of Euro-integration railway connections: first trains on the European gauge depart from Uzhgorod toward Europe
On Saturday, September 12, Ukraine achieved a historic milestone in developing its railway links with the European Union: Ukrzaliznytsia officially launched the first passenger trains running on the European gauge track, connecting Uzhgorod with Bratislava, Budapest, and Vienna.
This landmark event became possible thanks to the large-scale construction project of the Euro-track between Chop and Uzhgorod.
The new route, starting today, will enable millions of Ukrainians and tourists to reach popular European capitals faster and more comfortably.
According to Ukrzaliznytsia, the initial passengers, totaling 280 people, had the opportunity to experience the modern comfort and speed of the new trains, a result of collaboration with the European Commission and the European Investment Bank within the framework of the Connected Europe Facility program.
The trains will operate along two main routes: No.
961/618 from Uzhgorod to Bratislava, departing at 8:09 am and arriving at 6:33 pm; and No.
146 from Uzhgorod to Budapest and Vienna.
The Vienna route involves a direct train leaving Uzhgorod at 8:09 and arriving in Vienna at 5:20 pm, with subsequent return trips.
Additionally, Ukrzaliznytsia has updated its train schedule for August-October, introducing new routes and improving passenger comfort.
From September 12, a new service No.
644/647 will start, connecting Zahonny with Berehove and Borzhava, traveling along the Euro-track.
This route will become an essential transit hub, linking Ukrainian Berehove with the Hungarian Zahonny — a transfer point offering direct connections to Budapest.
Tickets for these trains are available via the Ukrzaliznytsia mobile app, official website, and through partner railway websites in Hungary and Slovakia.
Future plans include expanding the network and creating convenient connections to facilitate smoother travel, especially for passengers transferring from domestic to European routes.