Train service
OBB
ÖBB is Austria’s national rail operator, known for its Railjet trains and Europe’s largest night train network, Nightjet.
Leo Express
Leo Express is a Czech private transport company offering train and bus services in Central Europe, partly owned by Spain’s Renfe.
České dráhy
České dráhy (ČD) is the Czech national rail operator, offering regional and international train services across Central Europe.
Train tickets
Omio
Omio connects you with over 1,000 transport providers - trains, buses, flights, and more - to simplify your travel planning.
Trainline
Trainline sells rail and coach tickets worldwide on behalf of major UK and European transport companies.
Raileurope
Rail Europe is a leading travel tech company specializing in European train bookings for over 15,000 travel professionals worldwide.
Rail pass validity
When traveling by train from Prague to Rijeka, both the Interrail Global Pass and Eurail Pass are valid for the journey, allowing flexibility across multiple countries. The Interrail One Country Pass, however, would not be applicable for this route since it covers travel within a single country and not across multiple countries like the route from Prague to Rijeka. Note that the Eurail Pass is only valid for travelers who are not residents of the European Union. If you are an Interrail pass holder, your pass will not be valid for travel within your home country. Therefore, if the traveler is a Czech resident, they would need a separate ticket for the Czech portion of the journey.
Getting around
Rijeka, a bustling port city in Croatia, does not have a tram or metro system. However, the city offers a robust public bus network operated by Autotrolej, which is the primary mode of public transportation. Upon arriving at the Rijeka train station, you can easily catch a city bus to various destinations. The main bus terminal is located near the city center, making it convenient to access different parts of the city. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or on the bus, with single and multiple-ride options available. Taxis are readily available and can be found at designated taxi stands throughout the city or booked via phone. Alternatively, you can use ridesharing services like Bolt or Uber, which operate in Rijeka, for a more private transportation option. These can be booked via their respective mobile apps. For exploring nearby areas, car rentals are also a popular choice. Additionally, the city center is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot.
Onward connections
Rijeka, as a key city in Croatia, is connected by rail to several domestic and international destinations. Domestically, there are regular train services connecting Rijeka to Zagreb, which is one of the most popular routes. The journey typically takes around four to five hours and provides a scenic view of the Croatian countryside. Another important domestic rail connection is from Rijeka to Pula, although it usually requires a transfer at Lupoglav due to the lack of direct trains.
Internationally, Rijeka is connected via train to Ljubljana, Slovenia. This route offers an opportunity to explore Slovenia's capital and typically includes a change at either Opatija-Matulji or Ljubljana, depending on the specific service. Another significant connection is the service to Budapest, Hungary, which often involves a transfer in Zagreb. While less frequent, there are occasional seasonal trains to other European cities, particularly during the tourism peak season, promoting connectivity with countries like Austria and Italy. These international routes might require transfers but provide an enriching travel experience through diverse European landscapes.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Rijeka largely depends on what you're looking for in your travel experience. If pleasant weather and vibrant festivals are your main goals, consider visiting between late spring and early autumn, specifically from May to September. During this period, Rijeka enjoys warm and sunny weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions. June, July, and August are peak tourist months, when the city is lively with events and festivals, such as the Rijeka Summer Nights and various music festivals, though this also means higher prices and larger crowds.
For those looking to avoid the crowds and find more budget-friendly travel options, May and September are excellent choices. These months still offer mild weather, making it comfortable to explore the city, and accommodation and travel costs are generally lower than during the summer peak. Additionally, Rijeka's location on key train routes through Europe means that rail travel is convenient year-round, but planning ahead can help secure the best deals. Ultimately, your choice should align with your preferences for weather, activities, and budget, keeping in mind the city's significant events and natural attractions.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the cost of a train ticket from Prague to Rijeka?
According to EveryRail, train ticket prices on the route from Prague to Rijeka are dynamic. Demand influences prices significantly. Peak travel seasons lead to price increases. Special events can cause temporary price spikes. Booking in advance often results in lower prices. Last-minute purchases usually cost more. Different train companies offer different prices. Promotions or discounts can affect fares. Ticket class also changes pricing. Weekday and weekend prices may vary. Route changes due to maintenance can impact costs.
What trains run from Prague to Rijeka?
There is no direct train service from Prague to Rijeka. Deutsche Bahn trains connect through various routes to Croatia. Leo Express does not directly serve this route. Flixbus operates a bus service from Prague to Rijeka. České dráhy trains can be used for part of the journey to Croatia. OBB provides train services connecting Austria to Croatia.
How long does the train from Prague to Rijeka take?
According to EveryRail, the train from Prague to Rijeka takes 12–14 hours.
When is the best time to travel from Prague to Rijeka?
Avoid peak tourist season for fewer crowds. Ticket prices often rise during holidays. Mid-week travel is generally cheaper. Early morning trains can be less crowded. Book in advance to secure the best rates. Consider weather conditions along the route.
What’s the best route or train to take from Prague to Rijeka?
Deutsche Bahn runs direct train services from Prague to Rijeka. Flixbus operates direct bus services on this route.
What rail passes can I use to travel from Prague to Rijeka?
According to EveryRail, a Global Pass applies for the route from Prague to Rijeka. This is because Prague is in Czech Republic and Rijeka is in Croatia, which are different countries. Interrail Global Pass suits EU residents. Eurail Global Pass suits non-EU residents. No One Country Pass applies as the journey crosses international borders.