Ukraine
General train travel information for UKRAINE. Rail travel tours, accommodation, sightseeing.
Brief History
Railroads in Ukraine were developed under the rule of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Russian Empire. Independent locomotive trains appeared in the 1860s thanks to the efforts of Prince Leon Sapieha. The first train arrived in Lviv on November 4, 1861. In the following years, the railroad network was expanded and built in various regions of Ukraine.
After independence, Ukraine created a management organization called Ukrzaliznytsia, uniting the state-owned railway companies. In 1991, all assets located in the former Ukrainian SSR became the property of Ukraine.
During the Russian aggression in 2022, railroads became an important link in civilian and military logistics. Russian attacks on railroad hubs and the blockade of Black Sea ports led to increased use of railroads for cargo transportation, evacuation of refugees, and delivery of humanitarian aid.
Ukraine is working to rebuild damaged rail infrastructure and modernize the system. There are also plans to replace the wide Russian rail gauge (1520 mm) with the standard European gauge (1435 mm) to integrate with the European Union rail network.
General Information and Statistics
Most railway infrastructure transport in Ukraine is owned by the government of Ukraine through Ukrzaliznytsia (Ukrainian Railways). From December 23, 2021 to January 10, 2022 – Ukrzaliznytsia carried 1.56 million passengers.
As of 2020, the total length of the main broad gauge railroad network was 19,787 km The total length of electrified broad gauge lines was 9,319 km.
What connections to other countries there are.
Ukrainian Railways allows you to reach five countries of the European Union. Trains run to Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary and Moldova.
Are trains fast in Ukraine in general? How much time to cross the country?
Ukraine has a high-speed train "Intercity+", which runs on the Kiev-Lviv route. The speed of this train reaches 160-200 km/h (99-124 mph), which reduces the travel time between the two major cities. The journey from Kharkiv to Lviv takes 8:48 hours and from Odesa to Kyiv 9:33 hours.
What railway companies are available?
Most of the railway infrastructure in Ukraine is owned by the Government of Ukraine through Ukrzaliznytsya, which has a monopoly on passenger and freight transportation by rail nationwide. Part of the railway network in eastern Ukraine was privatized in the late 1990s, creating the country's largest private railway company, Lemtrans, which specializes in freight transportation.
What train types are available in Ukraine
There are several types of trains in Ukraine to meet the different needs of travelers. Here are the main types of trains that can be found:
• Regional trains: These trains connect smaller cities and towns within the same region. They make frequent stops along the way, providing local connectivity.
• Intercity trains: Intercity trains run between major cities and provide faster travel times than regional trains. They are a convenient option for traveling long distances within the country.
• High-speed trains: Ukraine has high-speed trains known as Intercity+. These trains run on certain routes, such as Kiev-Lviv, and provide faster travel times, reaching speeds of up to 160-200 km/h (99-124 mph).
• Night trains: Night trains allow passengers to travel long distances by sleeping on board. These trains often have sleeping compartments or couch cars, providing a comfortable environment for overnight travel.
• International trains: Ukraine has international rail connections with neighboring countries. These trains allow cross-border travel and access to various European destinations.
• Suburban trains: Suburban trains, also known as electric trains or electric trains, are mainly used to travel between suburbs and major cities. They run for shorter distances and make frequent stops.
Are there high-speed-trains available?
The high-speed train service in Ukraine is known as "InterCity+." These trains operate on specific routes and offer faster travel times compared to regular trains.
The primary high-speed route in Ukraine is the Kyiv-Lviv route, connecting the capital city of Kyiv with Lviv in the western part of the country. The InterCity+ trains on this route can reach speeds of up to 160-200 km/h (99-124 mph), significantly reducing travel time between these two major cities.
Most important train stations / hubs.
The main railway hubs in Ukraine are Kiev, Lviv, Kharkiv.
Websites to buy train tickets for Ukraine?
https://booking.uz.gov.ua/en/, omio.com
Mobile apps to buy train tickets in Ukraine?
Ukrzaliznytsia has a nice app. (Укрзалізниця: квитки на потяг – Android, Ukrainian Railways – iOs).
Possible to buy a ticket at a railway station in Ukraine?
There are several options for purchasing tickets besides buying online or in-app:
• at ticket offices;
• to pay for the ticket through the post office (Ukrposhta) with further arrangement at the ticket office;
Can I buy my ticket by phone?
You can also:
• reservation of seats by phone with subsequent registration and purchase at the ticket office;
• issue and purchase a travel ticket by phone with delivery within the city of Kyiv: +38(044) 5036050
Return the ticket.
Full refund of the ticket price is possible
- If the ticket is returned no later than 6 hours before the departure of the train, the passenger is refunded the full cost of the ticket and half the cost of the reserved seat (previously the ticket had to be returned no later than 9 hours in advance);
- It is allowed to return the full cost of the ticket after the departure of the train. It is important to return the ticket to the ticket office within one hour after the departure of the train. Remember that the cost of the reserved seat is non-refundable. As you know, previously only 10% of the ticket price was refundable.
Train ticket prices
For trains (Intercity+) on Thursdays and Saturdays there is a 10% discount, and the price of tickets on Fridays and Sundays increases by 10%. It is better to buy round-trip tickets to save 10%. You can buy train tickets from Kiev to Lviv for just over 12 euros.
Cheapest train to the closest nearby country?
As of August 2023, the official website does not show trains from Ukraine to neighboring countries.
Where to find timetables.
Find train schedules on https://uz.gov.ua/en/passengers/timetable/
Buying tickets in advance or right before the train
With the exception of high season and the most popular destinations, as well as on any holidays, buying train tickets in Kiev in advance and even just before departure is usually not difficult.
Types of tickets.
The types of tickets differ in comfort class. As such, there are no train passes in Ukraine.
Interrail/Eurail Passes in Ukraine
Interrail/Eurail Passes are not available in Ukraine.
Saver price.
Ukrainian railways do not offer special non-refundable but cheap tickets. Discounts are provided only for children. There is also a 10% discount on Intercity+ trains on Thursdays and Saturdays.
Is it cheaper to buy round-trip?
There is a 10% discount on round-trip tickets.
Flexible tickets.
Flexible tickets are not available.
Rules of boarding.
In addition to your ticket, when boarding the train you may be asked to show your passport for identification purposes.
Discounts for group travel.
There is no current information on group ticket discounts as of August 2023.
Age groups and discounts.
Free travel for children under 6 years of age (with an adult passenger, without a separate seat) and at a fare of 75% of the total ticket price (the cost of a full ticket and a ticket with a reserve seat) for children aged 6 to 14 years. Discounts for the use of railway transportation for students over 14 years of age are not legally defined.
Students of higher educational institutions for travel on suburban and intercity trains buy tickets for half their cost in common and plackart cars, 2-3 class cars.
Age limitations for minors.
Children from the age of 14 can travel unaccompanied. There are no discounts for children over 14 years of age.
Handicapped passengers.
For persons with disabilities and other low mobility groups at the stations and railway stations of JSC "Ukrzaliznytsia" appropriate conditions have been created for unhindered access to railway infrastructure facilities (arrangement of places and rest rooms, waiting rooms, restrooms, ticket offices, ramps, call buttons for on-duty employees, storage rooms, parking spaces and provision of navigation and orientation aids), which can be seen on the interactive map by clicking on the link.
To provide services, support, and solutions to issues related to the organization of transportation, groups to assist persons with disabilities and other low-mobility groups of the population work at stations and terminals. The groups are composed of employees of medical stations, station duty officers, senior ticket cashiers and other employees involved in serving persons with disabilities. Information about the availability of these groups is communicated to passengers by loudspeaker and visually on information stands and boards.
Seat reservations in trains in Ukraine.
When purchasing tickets, you must select a seat, without selecting a seat, you will not be able to finalize your ticket purchase.
Comfort classes on the trains.
Ukrzaliznytsia (Ukrainian Railways) offers the following passenger comfort classes:
Plackart (3rd class): Plackart cars offer the most affordable prices. The car is divided into open compartments with soft shelves for sitting and sleeping places (five places in each compartment). Plackart cars usually have shared restrooms and amenities.
Coupe (2nd class): In coupe cars, passengers can travel in closed compartments with four berths (two lower and two upper). Each compartment has a folding or fixed bench and table. Compartments usually have shared restrooms and amenities.
Deluxe (1st class): Luxury cars offer the highest level of comfort. They usually have single or double compartments with private berths, private toilet and shower. In some cases, an attendant is included, offering meals and other amenities.
Seated (2+2): Some Ukrzaliznytsia trains offer seated carriages. Seat cars have an open space with rows of seats, usually two seats on each side of the aisle. This is an economical option for passengers who do not require a sleeping place.
Business Class (seated): Some Ukrzaliznytsia trains also offer business class with seating. This class provides more comfortable seats, usually with greater row spacing, comfortable seats and additional services.
Food and drink in Country trains / train restaurant.
"Ukrzaliznytsia" has resumed catering services in high-speed trains Intercity+ and Intercity. And in long-distance trains the company has started selling confectionery, water and other cold drinks.
Thus, while traveling by high-speed trains Intercity+ and Intercity passengers can buy:
Drinking water;
Cold drinks;
Food products in individual packaging;
Ready meals pre-packaged in tightly closed containers and not requiring heating. (2020)
Night trains in Ukraine?
Ukraine has a very large number of overnight trains within the country.
Important train routes in Ukraine.
Kyiv - Lviv /from 5:45 hours / from 12.06 EUR / every 2-3 hours
Kyiv - Kharkiv /from 5:10 hours / from 14.60 EUR / 5 trains a day
Kyiv-Odesa / 9:08 hours / from 17.20 EUR / 1 train a day
Kyiv - Dnipro /from 6:36 hours / from 10.20 EUR / 4 trains a day
Lviv - Uzhhorod / from 5:14 hours / from 5.05 EUR / every 30 minutes
International train routes.
There are international trains from Ukraine to the Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary and Moldova.
Tourist /scenic routes in Ukraine.
Ukraine offers several scenic train routes that allow travelers to enjoy the country's beautiful landscapes and natural attractions. Here are some of the notable scenic routes in Ukraine:
Kyiv - Lviv - Carpathian Mountains: The train journey from Kyiv to Lviv takes you through picturesque countryside and charming towns. From Lviv, you can continue your journey towards the Carpathian Mountains, where you'll be treated to stunning mountain vistas, lush forests, and quaint villages. The train ride offers breathtaking views of the Carpathian scenery.
Lviv - Ivano-Frankivsk - Yaremche: This route takes you deeper into the heart of the Carpathian Mountains. The train ride from Lviv to Ivano-Frankivsk showcases the natural beauty of the region, including rolling hills, mountain streams, and traditional wooden architecture. From Ivano-Frankivsk, you can continue to the town of Yaremche, known for its picturesque waterfalls and scenic landscapes.
Odessa - Odesa Prymorska - Bila Tserkva: The train journey from Odessa to Bila Tserkva offers a unique blend of coastal and countryside views. As you travel along the Black Sea coast, you can enjoy glimpses of sandy beaches and sparkling waters. Further inland, the route passes through the picturesque Ukrainian countryside, with its vast fields, charming villages, and historic landmarks.
Uzhhorod - Mukachevo - Berehove: This route takes you through the scenic Zakarpattia region in western Ukraine. The train journey from Uzhhorod to Mukachevo offers panoramic views of rolling hills, vineyards, and the Tisa River. From Mukachevo, you can continue to Berehove, known for its thermal spas and lush vineyards, creating a picturesque landscape.
Luggage information.
When traveling in passenger trains in the domestic traffic of Ukrzaliznytsia, the following rules apply to the carriage of hand baggage:
Hand baggage includes items and things that can be easily carried and can be placed in the carriages on the places designated for hand baggage. Each passenger has the right to carry hand baggage weighing up to 36 kg (on full, discount, child travel documents) free of charge, provided that the dimensions do not exceed 200 cm in the sum of three dimensions.
When carrying hand baggage that exceeds the established norm, the passenger must pay for the excess weight or surrender part of the baggage for carriage as luggage for an additional fee.
Bicycle on the train.
Passengers on internal Ukrzaliznytsia trains can transport their bicycles if certain rules are observed:
• Transportation of bicycles inside passenger cars: Passengers may transport bicycles in disassembled and packed condition in plackart and compartment cars of overnight express and passenger trains. Bicycles must be packed in such a way that they can be placed on the seats intended for the transportation of hand luggage.
• Transportation of bicycles on regional trains: Some regional train carriages have specially equipped bicycle spaces. In this case, passengers must pay for the transportation of the bicycle as for 20 kg of luggage by issuing the appropriate receipt or electronic document.
• Carriage in a baggage car: If the passenger prefers to transport the bicycle in a baggage car, the charge for each bicycle is 20 kg of luggage. The bicycle must be presented along with all other belongings and the charge will be for the total weight of the luggage.
Passengers must secure their bicycles during transportation and follow staff instructions. The transportation of bicycles on Intercity and Intercity+ trains is not allowed if there are no special places to accommodate them.
Ski or snowboard on the train.
If skis or snowboards are stowed in a special bag and their size does not exceed the baggage allowance - you can take them with you.
Luggage lockers on the stations in Ukraine.
At the railway station of Kiev, as well as at all major train stations, there is a luggage room.
Lost and Found Items.
What to do if you lost your belongings on a train?
1. Go to the stationmaster (station) where you got off the train and write a written statement;
2. In the application, specify the train number and the seat you were occupying, describe the lost things and indicate the nearest station where they should be handed over;
3. upon receipt of the things, the owner must pay the carrier the necessary fees (for storage, packing, transportation of luggage at the baggage tariff, etc.).
What should I do if I forgot things at the train station?
Things that passengers forget not on trains, but at the train station or a particular station, are usually stored there. The passenger can go to the station manager and get his belongings after his identity is confirmed by appropriate documents.
At the same time, in case of loss of things during the trip, it is necessary to contact UZ employees at the final station of arrival. You can also call 0 800 50 31 11. It is possible to get the things (if they were found) within 30 days from the date of loss. To collect them, it is necessary to show the documents to the railroad employees.
Pets on the trains.
Small pets (small breed dogs, cats, birds, etc.) can be transported in special means for transportation in trains of all categories, except for "SV" and "M" cars. Dogs of large breeds must be on a muzzle and leash. Transportation of animals in "SV" and "M" cars requires redemption of all seats. Poultry may be transported in common cars on local trains and regional trains. A veterinary document is required. Fees for transportation of animals are charged at the baggage tariff.
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