Železničná spoločnosť Slovensko (ZSSK) has put the first four modernized sleeper cars into service. They are set to completely replace the old trains, which date back to the 1980s. For passengers who regularly travel between the east and west of the country, this marks a significant step forward—from being forced to spend the night on the train to a European standard of comfort.
What’s New on the Upgraded Night Trains
The old sleeper cars often suffered from a lack of air conditioning or outdated technical equipment. The new generation of cars, completely refurbished for ZSSK by ŽOS Vrútky, brings a whole new level of comfort to domestic routes.
Each of the new cars offers at least 30 beds, divided into flexible compartments for one, two, or three people. A major advantage for families with children or large groups is the ability to combine two adjacent two-person compartments into one large space. Additionally:
- all compartments are fully air-conditioned,
- each bed is equipped with electrical outlets and USB ports for charging,
- a modern information system and a range of amenities are a given.
The biggest draw for discerning passengers is the special Deluxe-class compartments, which feature their own bathroom and shower right inside. Such comfort has been lacking on Slovak night trains until now.
How much does a ticket cost and where can you find these cars?
The new trains are being introduced on key night routes connecting Humenne, Košice, Žilina, and Bratislava, as well as the neighboring Czech Republic. As part of the current upgrade, a total of ten modernized cars, costing 22.5 million euros excluding VAT, are being introduced, and the contract also includes long-term maintenance.
The pricing structure combines a base fare with a surcharge for a berth. For example, an adult passenger without special discounts will pay a total of 67.40 euros for an overnight trip on the Bratislava–Humenne route in a Single Deluxe compartment (a private room with a shower and toilet) (of which 23.40 euros is the base fare and 44 euros is the bed surcharge). In a shared Double Deluxe compartment, this trip will cost 52.40 euros per person.
To conveniently plan your trips—not just by rail—it’s worth checking the current schedules and connecting services provided to passengers in Slovakia by the national carrier. Full details on the launch of the new trains have been published on the official ZSSK website.
