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Czech rail operator RegioJet is pioneering a new international train route linking Prague to the western Ukrainian city of Chop near the Slovak border. The inaugural service departed Prague’s main station in March 2024, ushering in a new era of rail connectivity between Central Europe and Ukraine. This trailblazing route expands travel options. Now Ukraine’s culturally-rich Transcarpathian region while bolstering ties between Ukraine and the European Union amidst the ongoing conflict.

New Frontier for EU-Ukraine Rail Integration

In a landmark move lauded by European rail associations, RegioJet’s newly launched Prague-Chop overnight express establishes the first fully commercial open-access rail link between the European Union and Ukraine. The service operates daily in both directions via Koice, Slovakia before terminating at the Zakarpattia Oblast frontier station of Chop.

The eastbound journey commences nightly from Prague at 21:52, arriving on time at its Ukrainian destination by 10:35 the following morning. In the reverse direction, trains depart Chop at 17:35, reaching the Czech capital by 05:46. 

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Robust Domestic Connections Await

Upon arriving at Chop, seamless transfers are available to dedicated Ukrainian Railways services fanning across the nation’s western regions. A new transfer train (numbered 345/346) connects Chop with cities like Chernivtsi, Ivano-Frankivsk, Mukachevo and Uzhhorod, vastly enhancing accessibility.

“It is a generous gift to the Ukrainian people from RegioJet, who have committed resources to upgrade infrastructure at Chop station,” remarked Armand Duthil of rail advocacy group ALLRAIL.

Affordable Fares, Premium Comforts

Fares on the international Prague-Chop service start from an economical €18.90* for seats and €29.90* for couchette berths, with meals included. Onboard amenities match RegioJet’s accustomed standards, with a choice of three air-conditioned coaches offering 140 seats in total.

The new route complements the operator’s existing Prague-Krakow-Przemysl service to Ukraine via Poland. However, the Chop connection crucially bypasses the need for en-route transfers due to track gauge differences.  

Travel advisories urge checking conditions, but the line could open Transcarpathia to a new wave of discerning tourists craving an off-the-beaten-path experience steeped in authentic local culture and traditions.