Leo Express Ready to Launch Warsaw–Kraków Route

Warsaw, 26 February 2026

International carrier Leo Express is ready to launch domestic services on the Warsaw–Kraków route, expanding its popular international connection between Kraków and Prague. On this occasion, passengers are invited to join the inaugural journey of the new service, departing from Warszawa Wschodnia station on Sunday, 1 March, in the early morning hours. With this step, Leo Express is further strengthening its presence in Poland while enhancing international rail connections between Poland and the Czech Republic.

Leo Express is fully prepared for the launch of the new route both technically and operationally. The first services are already reporting high occupancy, with more than 100,000 tickets sold within Poland. Some dates are already sold out, confirming strong passenger interest in the new connection and its high-standard services. Leo Express looks forward to welcoming all customers from the very first day of operation.

"The new Warsaw–Kraków route represents another step in our long-term development in Poland and confirms that modern rail transport has a strong future in the region. We invite Polish passengers to try our services. We offer attractive options for all customer groups – business travelers seeking premium comfort in Business and Premium classes, families with children who appreciate low-floor boarding and a dedicated kids’ zone, as well as tourists heading to Prague looking for the best value for money. Thanks to promotional fares for early bookings, the Smile Club loyalty program, and regular special offers, traveling with us is accessible to everyone," says Peter Köhler, CEO of Leo Express.

Comfortable Travel Not Only Within Poland

Leo Express has operated in Poland since 2018, when it became the first private railway operator to launch a connection from the Czech Republic to Kraków, thereby opening the Polish rail market to other private carriers. The company offers a high level of travel comfort, including fast 5G Wi-Fi, a wide onboard refreshments selection featuring traditional Polish żurek soup for 6 PLN, popular Czech fried cheese, Asian specialties, and attentive onboard staff providing refreshments delivered directly to passengers’ seats.

For more demanding travelers, Premium Sleeper class is also available, allowing seats to be adjusted into a sleeping position for comfortable rest during the journey.

"The new rail connection between Poland and the Czech Republic represents an important stimulus for further development of inbound tourism. Poland has long been one of our key source markets, and the new services will make Czech regions even more accessible. At the same time, the connection reflects the growing trend of sustainable mobility across Europe. I believe Leo Express will attract new customers and demonstrate that rail can be not only environmentally friendly, but also comfortable, fast, and affordable compared to individual transport. Interest among Polish tourists in traveling by train and visiting our country is growing. Recent data confirm this positive trend – the number of overnight stays by Polish tourists in the Czech Republic increased by 14% year-on-year last year, indicating strong potential for the new connection on both sides of the border,” adds František Reismüller, Director of the Czech Tourist Authority – CzechTourism.

Steward before the departure of the Leo Express train

© Leo Express

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Premium Sleeper Class on Leo Express trains

© Leo Express

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Inaugural Ride with Special Program

Before departure, the Leo Express train will be positioned at the platform at Warszawa Wschodnia shortly before 7:00 a.m., where passengers, together with the Leo Express team, important guests, and key partners, can celebrate the official launch of the new Warsaw–Kraków service.

Passengers can look forward to tastings from the onboard menu, competitions, and the opportunity to speak personally with the Leo Express team. Small gifts and surprises will be prepared for the first customers onboard. This will be a regular scheduled service operating along its full route according to the timetable.

Practical Information Before the First Ride

Date and time: 1 March 2026, 6:50 a.m.
Location: Warszawa Wschodnia, Track 2, Platform III
Train departure: 7:21 a.m.
Program: Official launch ceremony, menu tastings, meeting the Leo Express team, onboard surprises

Passengers who cannot attend the morning launch event are welcome to visit the Leo Express ticket office at Warszawa Zachodnia station throughout the day. Visitors can enjoy competitions and small gifts for passengers.