Rides on Nostalgic Trains in 2026
Would you like to experience the romance of the old days, when trains were pulled by steam and motor trains were still the real thing? The Liberec Region offers trips on historic trains. And we have good news: The Zubačka is back in full operation following its renovation.
The Rack Railway: Back in Full Swing
The steepest railway line in the Czech Republic, running from Tanvald through Kořenov to Harrachov, is once again fully operational following the completion of extensive renovations. And the legendary T426 “Rakušanky” cogwheel locomotives, which were out of service for the entire year of 2025, have also returned.
What to Expect in 2026:
- The “Austrians” are back! The T 426.0 cogwheel locomotives conquer the steepest sections using a cogwheel. You have to experience this.
- The historic M152 “Orchestrion” and M240 “Singrovka”railcars continue to run regularly
- Steam trains between Kořenov and Harrachov for those who love the hiss of steam
- You can visitthe Rack Railway Museum in Kořenov on weekends
Why theZubačka? It’s the only standard-gauge rack-and-pinion railway in the Czech Republic. Plus, the Kořenov station still has fully functional mechanical signals. You’ll hardly find anything like that anywhere else.
Tip: From Kořenov, you can set out on hiking or biking trips in the Krkonoše Mountains. It’s the ideal starting point for a full day in the mountains.
You can find current schedules and dates on the Zubačka website
Turnov Region: Every Saturday Throughout the Summer Break
During the summer break, the Bohemian Paradise belongs to historic trains. A reliable schedule every Saturday.
"Na výlet k Táboru!" Motor Train
Runs every Saturday during the summer vacation (July and August 2026)
Route: Turnov – Mnichovo Hradiště – Turnov – Libuň – Lomnice nad Popelkou
Trains: M152 railcar or the historic Hurvínek M131 from 1956
What to expect along the way:
- Hikes up Mount Tábor
- The ruins of Kumburk Castle
- Alain’s Tower
- The source of the Cidlina River
- The Mastný Factory in Lomnice (a historic weaving mill offering tours)
Bonus: You can buy local Lomnice beer and light snacks on the train.
The Kafemlejnek Steam Train
It departs regularly on Saturdays during the summer holidays for the Bohemian Paradise.
Itineraries:
- Morning: Turnov – Rovensko pod Troskami
- Afternoon: Turnov – Semily
Imagine this: you set out from Turnov in the morning, take a ride beneath Trosky Castle or along the Jizera River, enjoy some ice cream, and return feeling like you’ve experienced a piece of history.
You can find the latest information on the websites of the Bohemian Paradise Railway Friends Club and Kolej-klub
The Jizera Pacific: Steam in the Krkonoše Mountains
The route from Martinice in the Krkonoše Mountains to Rokytnice nad Jizerou offers steam trains as well as a historic diesel railcar.
Note for 2026: The schedule will be adjusted compared to previous years due to a planned closure for the reconstruction of the bridge over the Jizera River. Details will be announced during the winter.
What Usually Runs:
- Krkonoše Steam Weekends (July and August)
- Weekends with Hurvínek (historic M131 railcar)
- Angel’s Ride (Advent special)
What to visit:
- Martinice Railway Museum (open on weekends from May through October)
- Mechanical signals right at the station (cultural monument since 2016)
- Trips around Rokytnicein the Krkonoše Mountains
Tip: The Martinice Station in the Krkonoše Mountains is a cultural monument. It’s worth visiting just to see the station itself.
How much does it cost?
In addition to the standard fare charged by the carriers, you get benefits with IDOL:
With an Opuscard or Opuscard+:
- 50% discount on the fare
- Children and youth ages 6 to 18: 75% discount
You ride for free with:
- EURO-NISA-Ticket+
- 24-hour pass for adults 18+
- A 24-hour group pass for 5 people (in the Idolka app)
Tip: With a group ticket, you don’t pay anything extra. Great for family outings or a group of friends.
Summary: Where and When
- Toothrack Railway: Back in full operation after renovation; the Austrian trains are back
- Turnov Region: Every Saturday during summer vacation, including diesel trains and the steam-powered “Kafemlejnek”
- Pojizerský Pacifik: Schedule to be announced (bridge closure); check for updates
- Fare: Free with a group ticket or EURO-NISA-Ticket+
Grab your camera, the kids, and a picnic basket, and head out. Historic trains offer an experience that a modern express train can never replace. The smell of coal, the hiss of steam—everything has the charm of days gone by.
Important: Before your trip, always check the current schedules and any changes on the organizers’ websites. Schedules are subject to change throughout the year.