RegioJet train service from Prague to Ostrava, Czech Republic

7/24/2018

RegioJet Train or Bus to Ostrava

I had the good fortune of being chosen to receive a free round-trip ticket on any of RegioJet’s trains or buses to get from Prague to Ostrava. This was because I was going to a travel bloggers conference called TBEX and our Czech Tourism hosts had arranged so many good things for all the travel bloggers in conjunction with transportation and tourism companies. I chose a business class ticket (because I could!) and I wanted to experience the comfort.

After I had figured out last minute that I was supposed to depart from platform 3, I rushed along with the scurrying crowd to get there and up the escalator to the platform. It’s amazing when you watch young women hauling a full stroller up, with a toddler in tow, and back-pack on carrying another bag displaying superhuman feats of strength. Makes my arthritis seem like nothing.

It was easy to find my car #5, but just to make sure, I showed the conductor at the door my ticket and he said yes, this way. I boarded, found my seat, put my suitcase up with the help of a young father nearby (did I mention that I found Czech people to be helpful everywhere I went?) I settled into my comfortable, leather reclined seat and took a deep breath to relax. I was finally on my way to Ostrava!!! (3 exclamation marks are necessary after the word Ostrava, you’ll read why in a later post)

The RegioJet was a smooth train ride. Very comfortable and relaxing. I had a single seat against the window. There are however, 4-seaters, or closed cabins for families or groups. I got a great view of the countryside the whole way to Ostrava. I was served free water and had free Wi-Fi. Later, the attendant came around to offer snack choices, such as a light salad or sandwich, juice, coffee or some other type of drink. It was just like being on an airplane except no turbulence ?

When I got to the Ostrava main train station it was easy to exit the train car and head towards the station exit. There is an elevator or stairs (take your pick) and it took me about 5 minutes to find the Taxi queue which really had no line at all. When a taxi driver saw me peering at the taxi sign he came right over and spoke in English asking where I wanted to go, I told him the Park Inn hotel. He took my bag and off we went arriving in about 10 minutes to the hotel.

For me it was a seamless experience using RegioJet and I would recommend it as the ticket costs are very reasonable. The only caveat I have is to warn you to learn the Prague main train station layout and how to find where your platform is. In worst case you can walk over to the RegioJet counter where they will be happy to help you. I wish I had found them sooner but oh well, I did learn how to navigate the Prague train station which I chalk up to traveler experience.