Holidaymakers can explore more of Europe by train as rail expansion links Prague, Krakow and beyond

Rail Europe has teamed up with Leo Express, the Czech private train operator, making it much simpler to book journeys through the heart of the continent from a single platform.

The partnership, announced today, means travellers can now sort out tickets for routes connecting major Central European cities without hopping between different booking sites.

It is the latest move from Rail Europe to make cross-border train travel easier for those wanting to explore beyond the usual Western European hotspots this summer.

The new tie-up opens up direct booking for routes linking Prague, Krakow, Warsaw, Ostrava and Olomouc – perfect for a multi-city adventure through the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia and Germany.

Leo Express has been running since 2010 and has built a reputation for modern, budget-friendly services across these countries.

It is particularly exciting for travellers looking for flexible itineraries spanning several countries, or those looking for alternatives to the packed tourist corridors of Western Europe.

This partnership marks Rail Europe's third network addition in just three months, following deals with BritRail and European Sleeper earlier this year.

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The platform now works with more than 250 rail providers and has over 90 years of experience in the business.

Rail Europe's chief executive, Björn Bender, said: "European rail is still too fragmented and too complex to access across borders. Our job at Rail Europe is to make it easier.

"Every new integration expands access and removes friction for travellers and partners. Leo Express is another important step in connecting more of Europe through rail."

Travelling by train is a convenient and often affordable way to reach your destination or explore a new country.

Experts have shared the top five European holiday hotspots Britons can reach in as little as one hour and 20 minutes by train.

Paris takes roughly two hours and 24 minutes to get to from London, and was named as the top holiday option on the list. If looking for speed, Lille in France is the quickest to reach. Direct trains take just over an hour from the UK's capital.