Czech private rail operator Leo Express is once again pursuing an ambitious cross-European route: a night train from Brussels to Bratislava, with a starting point in the Belgian coastal city of Oostende. The proposed service would cover several countries and offer a direct rail connection between Western Europe and Slovakia, potentially launching as early as late 2026.
Leo Express has officially submitted an application to the Belgian authorities for the necessary permits to operate the line. If approved, the service would provide a rare long-distance overnight option for travelers across Central Europe.
However, this is not the company’s first attempt to establish such a link. A previous plan was abandoned, reportedly due to a combination of political uncertainty, commercial risks, and logistical complexity. This history has raised concerns about the feasibility of the revived initiative.
Skepticism Among Experts
Industry analysts remain cautious. “I do not consider the implementation of this service to be particularly likely,” said Jiří Kubáček, a respected railway transport expert, in an interview with Index magazine.
At present, traveling between Bratislava and Brussels requires over 16 hours and at least one transfer, usually in Vienna, Frankfurt, or Cologne. While a direct night train would simplify the journey, experts question whether it can compete with faster, cheaper air travel, especially in a price-sensitive market.
Strategic Expansion or Risky Bet?
Leo Express currently operates regional services within Slovakia—notably the Bratislava–Komárno route—and international lines between the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The proposed Brussels–Bratislava route represents a bold extension of the company’s ambitions in long-distance travel.
The potential service would not only boost rail connectivity across borders, but also align with broader EU efforts to promote greener, more sustainable transport options.
Still, the financial and operational hurdles remain significant. The project will require cooperation from multiple national rail authorities, careful scheduling across congested European corridors, and a viable business model for night train operations, which typically involve higher costs.
Outlook: Awaiting Green Light
Whether the Brussels–Bratislava train becomes a reality depends on regulatory approval, technical planning, and market demand. For now, Leo Express remains in the early stages of development, and no final route map or pricing model has been announced.
As European travelers increasingly seek eco-friendly alternatives, the concept of night trains is seeing a modest revival. Whether Leo Express can turn this vision into a sustainable, competitive service will become clearer in the coming months.
