MÁV Launches Direct Trains to Berehove and Uzhhorod, Boosting Rail Connectivity Between Hungary, Austria and Ukraine

Written By: Gishan Das

Gishan Das

Gishan Das is a dedicated graduate with academic backgrounds in History and Political Science and practical experience in journalism and digital content creation. He completed his History Honours from Serampore College under the University of Calcutta and Political Science Honours from Indira Gandhi National Open University in 2025. His academic credentials are supported by professional certifications including a B2 level Certification in French language, NISM Financial Education certification in collaboration with the Aditya Birla Group alongside Gishan has strong expertise in journalism, news research and SEO-based content writing. He has demonstrated skills in news analysis, fact-checking, headline creation, digital storytelling and search-optimized reporting, which are also reflected in the journalism and media skills

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September 11, 2025 6:17 PM

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Beginning this Friday, Hungarian railroad operator MÁV will introduce direct trains to Berehove (Beregszász) and Uzhhorod (Ungvár), both of which lie in Ukraine’s Transcarpathia. This new development presents travel opportunities for passengers, improving rail linkages between Hungary, Austria, and Ukraine. The launch of these train services is a significant point in enhancing cross-border transport, deepening cooperation between adjacent nations of Central and Eastern Europe.

EuroCity Trains to Connect Major Cities in the Region

As part of the new services, Tisza EuroCity trains will link Uzhhorod with major cities like Vienna and Budapest, creating a convenient, direct rail route for travelers. This move significantly reduces travel time and makes it easier for people to visit Uzhhorod, a city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. With the EuroCity train system, passengers will be able to enjoy a fast, comfortable journey that connects them to one of Ukraine’s most important cities.

Berehove’s Direct Train Connection from Záhony

In addition to the Uzhhorod service, the Berehove route will also be directly accessible via Záhony, a border station in Hungary. This new connection will allow passengers from Hungary and beyond to reach Berehove in a convenient and efficient manner, facilitating travel for both tourists and residents alike. The inclusion of Berehove on the train map emphasizes the importance of Transcarpathia as a region poised for greater tourism and regional cooperation.

Strategic Partnership Enhances Cross-Border Travel

The launch of the new routes is the result of close cooperation between the railways of Hungary, Austria, and Ukraine, marking a key moment in regional collaboration. These rail services have been made possible due to a significant refurbishment of Ukraine’s railway system, a project that has helped integrate the Transcarpathian region into the European railway network. One of the major upgrades included the changing of the track gauge on the Ukrainian side of the border, which ensures compatibility with the European system and smooth travel across borders.

This collaborative effort not only benefits travelers but also provides an economic boost to the region by encouraging tourism, business travel, and greater mobility for people living near the border. By offering a faster, more reliable travel option, MÁV aims to contribute to regional economic growth and enhance the overall transport infrastructure.

Ticketing and Sales Expansion in September

For those planning to travel on these new routes, tickets will initially be available for purchase at box offices at stations. Passengers can also look forward to the launch of online ticket sales in the second half of September, offering greater convenience for those who prefer to book in advance. This online system will make it easier for travelers to plan their trips and access affordable, reliable train services between Hungary and Ukraine.

Facilitating Cross-Border Travel for Tourists and Locals

This direct train service comes at a time when cross-border travel is becoming increasingly important for fostering closer ties within the Central European region. The launch of the new EuroCity routes is expected to benefit both tourists and locals, enabling travelers to experience the beauty and culture of Transcarpathia, a region renowned for its scenic landscapes, historic towns, and unique blend of cultures. The new rail services will also benefit business travelers who regularly cross between Hungary and Ukraine, making it easier for them to commute.

The direct rail services will provide an added incentive for tourists to visit not only Uzhhorod and Berehove, but also other notable destinations in the Transcarpathian region, such as Mukachevo and Khust, further opening up Ukraine’s rich cultural heritage to international visitors.

Promoting Sustainable and Convenient Travel

The new train services are also an important step in promoting sustainable transportation. Trains are among the most eco-friendly modes of transport, and the development of cross-border services encourages travelers to opt for rail travel rather than air or road transport. This helps reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a more environmentally friendly travel experience.

With the launch of these services, MÁV and its partners are making it easier for people to travel comfortably and responsibly, whether for leisure, business, or cultural exploration. The introduction of the direct rail link is part of a broader strategy to expand rail networks across Eastern Europe, offering better connections to major cities and improving overall regional transportation infrastructure.

Future Expansion and Enhancements

Looking ahead, this new rail service could pave the way for further expansion in the region, including potential future routes to other parts of Ukraine or Eastern Europe. The success of the Uzhhorod and Berehove services may lead to the development of new routes that cater to even more travelers, opening up additional opportunities for international tourism and economic cooperation.

As part of the regional development plans, rail companies and governments involved in the project are already exploring ways to enhance the customer experience, such as introducing additional amenities on the trains or improving the accessibility of stations. These improvements will help ensure that the train services remain a popular and efficient option for cross-border travel

A Step Forward in Regional Cooperation in Europe

The opening of direct train connections between Hungary and Ukraine is a key milestone in the development of the region’s transport. In the collaboration of Hungarian, Austrian, and Ukrainian railway operators, the new service offers improved travel options for individuals traveling among Austria, Hungary, and Ukraine. The introduction of the EuroCity trains to Uzhhorod and Berehove consolidates the region’s links and provides a promising basis for future development of cross-border tourism and regional mobility.