How To Get To Vienna From Prague

The capitals of Austria and the Czech Republic are rightfully among the top places to discover the rich historical legacy of real authentic Europe. The centuries-old well-preserved architecture, lush royal palaces and delicious cuisine make these two cities a great choice for a European getaway. And the best way to see them both in one trip and saving some time on transportation is taking a train from Prague to Vienna. In this article you can find handy tips to know about when planning your Vienna - Prague travel.

Pic courtesy Wikimedia Commons

The Pre-Travel Planning Phase

Say, you have a week in total for your upcoming trip to Europe. In any case, you probably want to make the most of it and therefore spend a lot of time on planning prior to departure and researching where to stay, what to see, where to eat. Of course, if you have multiple destinations on the travel plan, you obviously also search for the most convenient and time-saving connections. Here’s a travelers tip that can save you some trouble. 

In the case of traveling from the Austrian capital to the Czech capital, or vice versa, a flight may seem like the first obvious choice, but actually it isn’t the best one. Why? Simply because you should keep in mind that both the Vaclav Havel Airport in Prague and the Vienna International Airport are located outside the cities, meaning it’ll take you some extra time to get to/from the city centers. Not to mention that if your flights arrive/depart not in the working hours of public transport, you’ll need to take a taxi and this might be costly.

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Actually, it’s not just the money that you might not be saving, there’s a question of overall travel time too. The 50-minute flight can sound appealing but don’t forget to add on time before the plane departure, time for passport and security checks, and for collecting luggage upon arrival. In the end, this’ll result in 4 plus hours of your vacation time and a lot of unnecessary movement. 

That said, the most recommended and smart way to travel is on train from Prague to Vienna. And not just on any train, on a modern, high-speed bullet train that’ll quickly deliver you from city center to city center in no time. Let’s take a closer look.

It’s All About The Railjet Train

A couple of things to know about Railjet trains. High-comfort Railjets, running on the Prague - Vienna route, are a great option to consider taking if you wish to travel between these cities. They can move at a speed of 230 kph (that’s about 143 mph) and pass the distance of 254 kilometers in an average travel time of a little less than 4 hours. This result is pretty impressive, especially when keeping in mind that you travel in comfort, plus depart from and arrive to rail stations which stand in the heart of town. 

What’s also worthy of mentioning is the train schedule convenience boasting multiple daily departure times that can easily fit in your Vienna and Prague plans. Depending on your preferences, you can also choose from several travel classes, including Second Economy, First and Business.

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Railjet trains are popular among travelers for many other reasons too, as such, the onboard amenities are great: reclining adjustable seats with footrests and armrests, foldable tables, great views of the passing by landscapes through the large windows, power sockets for charging your appliances, available WiFi, spacious luggage areas, air-conditioning, and onboard facilities such as a restaurant car where you can buy some snacks and drinks.

Other Recommendations

No matter which capital, the Austrian or the Czech one, you arrive to first, save at least 3 days for sightseeing in each of them as these capitals have much to offer travelers. In Vienna put down Schonbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, Belvedere, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral on your must-sees list. In Prague don’t miss out on Charles Bridge, St. Vitus Cathedral, Prague Castle, the Dancing House, and the charming astronomical clock.

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The weather in Vienna and Prague invites to set off on walking tours, there are hot summers, mild autumn and spring temperatures and cold winters. To be on the safe side, pack an umbrella and, without a doubt, comfortable walking shoes. 

As for money, Austria uses Euros whereas Czechia has the Czech Koruna as the official currency. ATMs are very easy to find in these countries, almost all of them provide the option to select English as the navigation language and local currency can be withdrawn at any time. Therefore, it makes sense to take your debit card with you as it’ll be accepted in most places, including restaurants and hotels. It’s smart to have some cash with you too to pay for public transport, small souvenirs, tips; US dollars are accepted in all currency exchange offices as well. 

For a gastronomic treat, taste Austrian Wiener Schnitzels and the apple dessert Apfelstrudel. When in Prague make sure to try palačinky pancakes and local beer, Pilsner or Gambrinus for example, that the city is famous for.

Pic courtesy Wikimedia Commons

A trip to Prague and Vienna certainly won’t disappoint as these cities are among the most remarkable destinations in Europe worth seeing at least once. Have fun and enjoy your trip to the fullest!