Train travel is one of the most convenient and popular ways to get around, both within the country and internationally. Ukraine's main rail carrier for passenger transport is Ukrzaliznytsia. Before you set off, it is useful to know the basics of passengers' rights and duties and to get to know the services available.
Rights and duties of Ukrzaliznytsia passengers
Before you board a train, it is important to know your rights and duties as a passenger. They are set out in Ukrzaliznytsia's rules and regulations and ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers on the journey.
Rights of Ukrzaliznytsia passengers:
Polite staff: Train staff must be polite and ready to help you when needed. This is required by the passenger transport rules and ensures a positive travel experience.
Hot water and medicines: During the journey you can use hot water and any necessary medicines from the carriage first-aid kit. These services are included in the ticket price and must be provided to passengers free of charge.
Blankets on request: Whatever the season, passengers have the right to ask the carriage attendant for a blanket so they can sleep comfortably.
Toilet paper: The train toilet must always be stocked with toilet paper and soap to keep conditions hygienic for passengers.
Safety belt: Attendants must provide a safety belt for a child or adult passenger travelling on an upper berth. If the belt provided does not seem strong enough, you can ask for it to be replaced.
No smoking: Smoking is banned on Ukrainian trains. If another passenger breaks this rule, you can ask the attendant to take appropriate action.
Wake-up before your station: Attendants must wake you up when the train is approaching your destination station.
Drinks in sleeper carriages: Passengers on trains with sleeping berths can order tea and coffee for an extra charge. The cost of drinks may be included in the ticket price if this was agreed at the time of booking.
Hand luggage: Under the luggage rules, passengers may take hand luggage weighing up to 36 kg into the carriage, provided it does not exceed the luggage space allocated to one passenger.
Bed linen: Bed linen is already included in the price of an Ukrzaliznytsia ticket unless you declined it when buying the ticket.
Raising and lowering upper berths: Attendants must help you raise and lower upper berths.
Moving to another carriage: If your seat is taken by another passenger, the attendant must find you another one. If the new seat is in a lower-class carriage, you must be refunded the difference in fare.
Return to the original station: If you boarded the wrong train by mistake, you have the right to return to your original station free of charge.
Continuing your journey if you lose your ticket: If you lose your ticket and documents, you can obtain a new ticket free of charge via a telephone message or fax.
Boarding any carriage: Passengers have the right to board any carriage of the train, especially at intermediate stations.
Passengers' duties:
Safety: Passengers must follow the safety rules during the journey and cooperate with train staff when necessary.
Tickets and documents: Passengers must carry a valid ticket and identity documents.
Using public transport: Passengers must follow the rules of conduct and respect other passengers.
Available services
Ukrzaliznytsia offers a wide range of services to make your journey more pleasant and comfortable:
Different carriage types: Ukrzaliznytsia trains have carriages of different classes, from open-plan (platzkart) to luxury sleepers. You can choose the carriage that suits your needs and budget.
Restaurant and buffet cars: Some trains offer catering, so you can order food and drinks during the journey.
Luggage storage: Ukrzaliznytsia trains have dedicated luggage spaces to keep your belongings safe.
Wi-Fi and sockets: Some trains provide free Wi-Fi and sockets for charging devices, which is especially handy on long journeys.
Comfortable seats and berths: Most carriages offer comfortable seats and sleeping berths with bed linen.
Security service: A security service operates on trains to maintain order and keep passengers safe.
Services for children and passengers with disabilities: Ukrzaliznytsia also provides services for children and passengers with reduced mobility.
Ukrzaliznytsia is also constantly improving its services and offers discounts and promotions for passengers. A train journey with Ukrzaliznytsia can be a wonderful and comfortable experience. By knowing your rights and duties and making use of the services available, you can enjoy your trip and reach your destination without any unnecessary hassle.
