Direct Trains to Croatia’s Beaches: Czechia, Poland, and Slovenia Launch Summer Rail Links

Europe’s summer rail map just got a major upgrade. After more than three decades, Croatia and Slovenia are reconnecting by train to the Adriatic, while Czech and Polish operators roll out new direct services to Rijeka — offering tourists a smooth, car-free route straight to the seaside.

For the first time in over 30 years, a direct train will once again run from Zagreb through Ljubljana to the Adriatic port of Pula. This historic development is the result of a joint effort between Croatian Railways (HŽ Putnički prijevoz) and Slovenian Railways (Slovenske železnice).

Croatia and Slovenia Launch Direct Rail Link

Starting from 20 June, the two capitals of Croatia and Slovenia will be connected by a new weekend rail service to Pula on the Adriatic coast. Croatian Railways and Slovenian Railways have coordinated to launch this cross-border route, reviving rail services that were fragmented following the breakup of the former Yugoslavia over three decades ago.

First Direct Service Since Yugoslavia's Dissolution

The newly launched route marks the first direct rail connection on this line since the early 1990s. Initially, the train will operate on weekends, departing Zagreb for Pula via Ljubljana every Friday, and returning from Pula to Ljubljana and Zagreb on Sundays. The route will be served by Stadler Flirt diesel-electric low-floor trains, capable of speeds up to 140 km/h, offering 171 seats, full accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility, bicycle and stroller transport, Wi-Fi, and passenger information systems.

Affordable Fares for Tourists and Locals

Croatian Railways has set competitive fares for the new service. A second-class one-way ticket from Zagreb to Pula costs EUR 24 for adults, EUR 8 for children aged 6 to 15, and EUR 16 for students, pensioners, and passengers over 65. Children under 6 travel for free, and bicycle transport costs an additional EUR 5.

From 21 June, two additional trains will operate on Saturdays between Pula and Divača (in southwestern Slovenia), and from 28 June to 31 August, four seasonal cross-border trains will run between Buzet and Divača, further enhancing regional connectivity. According to HŽ, the launch of these new services contributes to improved regional integration and supports sustainable mobility at affordable prices. Full timetables and ticket details are available on the Croatian Railways website.

Direct Trains From Czechia to the Adriatic: A Dream Come True for Tourists

But that’s not all. Croatia remains a highly popular destination for Czech tourists. In a recent press release, České dráhy (Czech Railways) announced, in cooperation with Poland's PKP Intercity, an expansion of summer offerings with an attractive new connection.

Starting from 27 June, selected EC 108 / 109 "Sobieski" international trains will extend beyond Vienna to reach the Croatian port city of Rijeka. This direct line to the Adriatic will operate four times weekly throughout the summer season, offering comfortable sleeper cars for overnight journeys.

"This cooperation opens up a new dimension of travel to the Adriatic for our customers through direct train cars," stated Michal Krapinec, Chairman of the Board and CEO of České dráhy. "Croatia remains a top summer destination where we escape daily routines. Thanks to our long-term partnership with PKP Intercity, passengers can enjoy highly attractive travel times: boarding in Ostrava before 7 p.m. and arriving at the seaside by 10 a.m. the next day."

Sources: index.hr, hzpp.hr, České dráhy