Exploring Prague And Vienna: Tour Options And Insights

There are several ways to travel from Vienna, Austria to Prague, Czech Republic. The distance between the two cities is approximately 250-300 kilometres, and the most popular and quickest way to travel between them is by train, car, or bus. The train journey takes around 4 hours, while the bus and car trips are similar in duration and ticket price. The fastest way to travel is by car, which takes approximately 3.5 hours. Travellers can also opt for a private transfer, flight, bike, or even walking tour. For those interested in sightseeing along the way, there are transfer tours that include stops at Lednice Palace, the Mikulov Wine Region, Znojmo, and Telc.

Vienna to Prague by train

The train journey from Vienna to Prague is a popular route for tourists and locals alike, with up to 11 trains running between the two cities every day. The journey offers stunning scenery and is a great way to travel between Austria and the Czech Republic.

Journey Time and Frequency

The journey from Vienna to Prague by train takes approximately 4 hours, with some trains taking as little as 3 hours and 56 minutes. There are frequent departures throughout the day, with the first train leaving Vienna as early as 5:20 am or as late as 9:55 pm, depending on the day of the week.

Cost

Ticket prices for the Vienna to Prague train start at $13.75 for a standard class ticket when booked in advance. The price varies depending on the type of train, class of service, availability, and how far in advance you book. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station.

Train Companies

There are several train companies that operate on this route, including ÖBB, Railjet, RegioJet, and Student Agency. ÖBB offers high-speed Railjet trains, which are comfortable and modern, with speeds of up to 143 mph. RegioJet trains are bright yellow and reach speeds of up to 124 mph, offering a unique travel experience.

Departure and Arrival Stations

The departure station in Vienna is the Vienna Hauptbahnhof, located at Alfred-Adler-Straße 107, 1100, Vienna, Austria. The arrival station in Prague is the Prague Main Station, located at Wilsonova 8, 110 00, Prague, Czechia.

Onboard Services

Onboard services vary depending on the train company and class of service. Some trains offer free WiFi, power sockets, entertainment portals, and a variety of food and drink options. Bicycles are not allowed on the RegioJet trains, and pets are only permitted in specific carriages.

Vienna to Prague by bus

Overview

The bus is a cheap and easy way to travel from Vienna to Prague. The journey takes around 4 hours and 45 minutes, covering a distance of 157 miles (253 km). There are about 2 buses that travel from Vienna to Prague daily, with prices starting at $11 for a one-way ticket.

Bus Companies

FlixBus, RegioJet, and Deutsche Bahn Regio are the three bus companies that service this route. FlixBus is a popular European bus operator known for its lime green buses and affordable prices. In their buses, you'll find free Wi-Fi, bathrooms, and power outlets. RegioJet offers six types of travel classes, each with different levels of comfort. Deutsche Bahn Regio has an average rating of 3 out of 5 stars on Busbud, with travelers praising the seats and cleanliness.

Bus Stations

Vienna

• U-Bahn Station Erdberg
• Wiedner Gürtel 46 (Hbf)
• Engerthstr. 244 (Stadion Center)
• Triester Str. 2 (Matzleinsdorferplatz)
• Felberstraße 4 (Westbahnhof)

Prague

• PRG Airport
• Tomíčkova 2234 (Chodov)
• Křižíkova 2b (Florenc)
• Wilsonova 300/8 (Hlavní Nádraží)
• Chlumecká (Černý Most)
• Drahoňovského (Zličín)

Tips

• It's best to book your bus ticket from Vienna to Prague in advance to get the cheapest price.
• Both FlixBus and RegioJet have options to choose your seat when purchasing your ticket.
• FlixBus offers snacks and drinks onboard, which can be purchased directly from the driver.

Vienna to Prague by plane

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Vienna to Prague by private transfer

Private transfers from Vienna to Prague are a popular choice for travellers looking to make the most of their journey between the two cities. Here's everything you need to know about this travel option:

Convenience and Comfort

Private transfers offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between Vienna and Prague. You will be picked up directly from your hotel or accommodation in Vienna and dropped off at your desired address in Prague. This door-to-door service saves you the hassle of navigating public transport or lugging your luggage around. The vehicles used for these transfers are typically comfortable cars or minivans, ensuring a relaxed journey.

Duration and Flexibility

The travel time for a private transfer from Vienna to Prague is approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and your chosen route. This is comparable to the duration of other travel options, such as trains or buses. However, with a private transfer, you have the flexibility to customise your itinerary and make stops along the way. Whether you want to explore charming towns, admire scenic landscapes, or simply take a break, a private transfer allows you to tailor your journey according to your preferences.

Sightseeing Opportunities

The journey from Vienna to Prague is filled with captivating sights and attractions. Here are some popular stops that you can include in your private transfer itinerary:

• Lednice Palace: A former summer residence of the royalty of Liechtenstein, Lednice Palace and its surrounding gardens are a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. The palace, designed in the 19th century, showcases the English Gothic style and provides a glimpse into the extravagant lives of the Liechtenstein family.
• Znojmo: This picturesque town, located on a strategic hill by the Thaya River, offers stunning views, including the beautiful St. Nicholas Church and Town Hall. Znojmo is also known for its delicious local cuisine, making it an ideal lunch stop during your journey.
• Telč: Boasting a romantic Renaissance Old Town, Telč is renowned for its colourful houses with high gables lining the town square. The competitive spirit of the town's citizens resulted in the creation of this enchanting architectural landscape.
• Kutna Hora and the Bone Church: A popular detour, Kutna Hora is home to the UNESCO-listed Sedlec Ossuary, famously known as the Bone Church. This unique site is adorned with thousands of human bones arranged in intricate decorative patterns, serving as a poignant reminder of the transient nature of life.
• Brno: As the second-largest city in the Czech Republic, Brno offers a rich cultural heritage and interesting monuments. The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, the Vegetable Market, and the Old Town Hall are among the highlights of this vibrant city.

Practical Information

When booking a private transfer, it is essential to choose a reputable company that prioritises safety, comfort, and reliability. Some companies to consider include Daytrip and Sidetrip, both of which offer experienced drivers and well-maintained vehicles. You can also expect features like air-conditioning, luggage assistance, and optional sightseeing stops. It is recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred travel date and time. Additionally, private transfers are usually priced per seat, and you can choose from different vehicle options based on your group size and preferences.

Vienna to Prague by bike

Day 1: Explore the beautiful Bohemian countryside

Your first day will begin in Prague, where you will meet your Trek Travel guides at 9:00 AM. After a two-hour shuttle, you will arrive at the charming village of Holašovice, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Folk Baroque architecture. You will then enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional Czech restaurant before changing into your cycling gear and familiarising yourself with your bike. You will then embark on a warm-up ride through the Bohemian countryside before spending the evening in Český Krumlov, your home for the next two nights.

Day 2: Ride along the Vltava River and explore Český Krumlov

On day two, you will ride along the Vltava River, passing through the quiet town of Rožemberk and the 13th-century Cistercian monastery in Vyšší Brod. You will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at a restaurant of your choice on the shores of the stunning Lake Lipno. In the afternoon, you will ride back to Český Krumlov, where you will join a local guide for a private walking tour of the medieval town, including its Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural highlights.

Day 3: Ride across the border to Austria

Today, you will head south into the picturesque Waldviertel region of northern Austria, enjoying one last spin through the colourful countryside of the Czech Republic. Before crossing the border, you will stop for lunch in the nearby town of Weitra. In the afternoon, you can choose to continue cycling through medieval villages, lush farmland, and dense forests, or opt for a shuttle to your hotel, Schlosshotel Rosenau, where you will enjoy a dinner of Austrian specialties.

Day 4: Explore the rolling hills of Austria and the town of Zwettl

Day four will take you through the rolling Austrian countryside, passing the 12th-century Arbesbach Castle. You will stop in the picturesque town of Zwettl, home to one of Austria's largest and oldest breweries, for lunch and exploration. After lunch, you can choose to continue cycling or take a shuttle back to Schlosshotel Rosenau, where you can relax in the castle grounds, indulge in the spa, or take a dip in the natural pond. In the evening, you will shuttle to Gasthof Thaler, a local family-run bistro, for dinner.

Day 5: Pedal through Austrian farmlands and descend to the Wachau wine region

On your fifth day, you will ride through the quiet beauty of the Waldviertel region, passing through the town of Zwettl and its Stift (abbey), which features one of the most beautiful churches in northern Austria. As you descend into the valleys, you will be treated to views of the Danube River. You will stop for lunch at a local favourite, where you can sample traditional Austrian dishes. In the afternoon, you will arrive in the famed Wachau region, where vineyards blanket the hillsides. You will ride through the bustling university town of Krems and end your day in the riverside village of Dürnstein, where you will enjoy a wine-paired dinner in the Roman-era cellar of Austria's oldest winery.

Day 6: Ride along the Danube to Spitz or hike to the ruins of Dürnstein

On your final day, you will join the locals and pedal along the bicycle paths that line the shores of the Danube River, exploring delightful villages along the way. Alternatively, you can choose to hike to the ruins of Dürnstein or stroll through the town. Your trip will conclude with a private shuttle to one of Vienna's biggest train stations, Wien Westbahnhof.

Frequently asked questions