Ukrzaliznytsia launches Zhytomyr–Kyiv express train: cheaper than a minibus and no traffic jams

Ukrzaliznytsia is launching a Zhytomyr–Kyiv express train starting in June 2025: faster, more convenient, and almost 2.5 times cheaper than a minibus. Find out the schedule, stops, and how to book tickets

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The national railway operator is launching a new regional express train No. 856/855, which will connect Zhytomyr and Kyiv, making daily trips between the regional centers not only more convenient but also cheaper. Starting in June 2025, residents of the Kyiv and Zhytomyr regions will be able to travel on a renovated electric train in just 2 hours — comfortably, quickly, and without traffic jams.

When will the new Kyiv–Zhytomyr express train start running?

According to the press service of JSC Ukrzaliznytsia on Telegram, the regional express train “Zhytomyr–Kyiv–Zhytomyr” will start operating on June 27, 2025. The new route is especially convenient for those who travel this distance daily by minibus or car. Ukrzaliznytsia is positioning the express train as an affordable alternative — the ticket price will be almost 2.5 times lower than that of a minibus.

For passengers, this means not only savings, but also a guaranteed arrival time without the risk of getting stuck in traffic at the entrance to the capital.

Comfortable conditions and modern service on the train

A modernized electric train with third-class seating will run on the route — comfortable, spacious, and bright. Ukrzaliznytsia emphasizes that passengers will be able to enjoy the trip in a renovated car, equipped according to modern standards with an emphasis on inclusivity and convenience.

Among the key advantages of the train are:

● an inclusive interior with seats for people with disabilities;

● areas for transporting bicycles;

● changing tables for passengers with children;

● Braille signs;

● sockets for charging gadgets;

● high-quality modern restrooms.

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Where will the Kyiv-Zhytomyr express stop: only one stop

The express will run without unnecessary stops, stopping only in Fastiv. This location will be a convenient transfer point:

● to suburban trains to Bila Tserkva and Myronivka;

● to other destinations within the region.

In Kyiv, passengers will be able to immediately transfer to international trains bound for Budapest, Przemyśl, and other European cities, opening up new opportunities for hassle-free travel.

Schedule of the Zhytomyr–Kyiv express

Ukrzaliznytsia has provided a clear schedule for the regional express train, which will operate on weekdays:

In the direction of Kyiv – Zhytomyr (No. 855):

● departure from Kyiv: 17:48

● stop in Fastiv: 18:30

● arrival in Zhytomyr: 19:58

In the direction of Zhytomyr – Kyiv (No. 856):

from June 30 (due to repair work):

● departure from Zhytomyr: 06:18

● stop in Fastiv: 07:49

● arrival in Kyiv: 08:44

from August 1 (after completion of repairs):

● departure from Zhytomyr: 06:18

● Fastiv – 07:49

● early arrival in Kyiv – 08:37

Ticket sales will start 10 days before departure.

Reminder: you can always book tickets for trains, buses, and planes in Ukraine and between cities around the world quickly and conveniently online through the Visit Ukraine system — the service is available 24/7 and supports several payment methods.

What other trains run between Zhytomyr and Kyiv?

In addition to the new express train, regular suburban trains also run between the cities every day:

● No. 7034 “Zhytomyr – Kyiv” (departure at 07:48, arrival at 11:35);

● No. 7037 “Kyiv – Zhytomyr” (departure at 15:29, arrival at 18:53).

We remind you! Ukrzaliznytsia has scheduled additional trains for the summer season for popular destinations. Read about when and where the additional trains will run so you can plan your trip, including transfers to international flights, in our previous article.

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