When travelling on an Intercity train, it’s worth comparing not only the class but also the specific seat. For some, a quiet space to work is important; for others, it’s about sitting together or having easy access to the aisle. Consider the price alongside how you’ll spend those few hours on the journey.
Compare the available seating plans
Open both classes for the same journey and look at the layout of the seats, tables and available seats. Don’t assume a seat number from a different train model will be the same. If you’re travelling as a couple, check that the seats are actually next to each other: adjacent seat numbers don’t always mean the seats are in the desired configuration. Choose designated special seats according to your needs.
Work or leisure
For a laptop, a table and space to put your things are important, but don’t base your work plan solely on internet access and power sockets. Download your files in advance. When it comes to sleeping, choose whatever helps you best: a window seat, an eye mask, or earphones. Conversations and videos without earphones will disturb your neighbours in any class.
See also: Compartment carriage layout: how to find the lower berth and nearby seats; A window seat on the Intercity: how to check the layout before booking.
Official sources
Ukrzaliznytsia: passenger carriage layouts. Please check current services, fares and terms and conditions for your specific travel dates; the photographs illustrate rail travel and do not confirm the configuration of a specific service.
Image details
- HRCS2-001 - 31.12.2017.jpg — Bohdan Hrechanskyi; CC BY 4.0. The image has been resized and converted to WebP. Licence terms can be found on the original page.
- EKr1-002.jpg — bodya3504; CC BY-SA 3.0. The image has been resized and converted to WebP. Licence terms can be found on the original page.
Questions and answers
Is internet access guaranteed in first class?
Check the train’s services, and keep your working materials offline.
Are seat numbers the same on all Intercity trains?
Seating plans may vary; please refer to the seating plan for the specific train.
What should I check for two passengers?
The position of the seats in relation to the aisle, the table and each other.
When is it worth paying extra?
When a specific difference in space or seating is genuinely important for your journey.