Currently, there are no scheduled passenger trains between Croatia and Serbia. All passenger trains were suspended in March 2020 due to COViD-19 pandemic and were not reinstated, although some of them still appear in timetable, but in fact, these trains don’t run. It may change in the nearest future, so check national operators’ websites for updates.
It is hard to believe, but there is no direct train from Zagreb to Belgrade.
Last updated: 23.07.2024
Railway border crossings between both countries:
Bogojevo ŽS – Erdut HŽ
Šid ŽS – Tovarnik HŽ
Railway border crossing Tovarnik – Šid lies on the international railway corridor and was used for international trains between Serbia and Croatia and trains from Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia to Belgrade. As far as I know the railway line will be upgraded on both sides of the border.
Railway border crossing Bogojevo – Erdut was used for freight and passenger traffic. The bridge over Danube River was rebuilt in 2008 and initially opened for freight traffic. Cross-border passenger trains were introduced on 14 December 2015 and were suspended in March 2020. It was possible to continue journey by train from Erdut to Osijek (Croatia) and from Bogojevo to Novi Sad, Sombor and Subotica (Serbia).
The only passenger train between Serbia is a seasonal tourist train Optima Express. Train runs twice a week from May to November from Villach, Austria to Edirne, Turkey through Serbia and Bulgaria. It is currently only one passenger train between Serbia and Bulgaria. Train is comprised with non air-conditioned sleeping carriages, couchettes, restaurant car and car wagon.
Optima Express – official website
Trains between Serbia and Croatia – useful websites
Train travel in Serbia – a comprehensive guide
Train travel in Croatia – a comprehensive guide