Vienna: Day Trips and Tours from Prague

Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria and is located on the winding Danube River. It is known for its rich history, magnificent architecture, and deep-rooted cultural traditions.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site and heart of the Habsburg Empire has played a pivotal role in European and world history. Vienna has been home to some of history’s most significant and influential composers, while its Museum Quarter stands as one of the largest cultural quarters globally.

The city's quintessential coffeehouse culture and status as the stomping ground for renowned modern thinkers fuse its grand imperial history with a vibrant contemporary pulse. This unique blend of old and new makes day trips to Vienna from Prague especially appealing for those seeking a taste of its myriad charms.

Here's all you need to know about Vienna, one of the most exciting day trips from Prague.

How to get to Vienna from Prague?

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is located to the south-east of the Czech city of Prague. It is easily accessible by car, bus, train and plane.

From Prague to Vienna by car

Vienna is around 335 kilometers away from Prague by road. The most direct route between the two locations travels along the D1 and E65. When there are no delays and excluding any rest stops, the trip will take around 3.5 hours.

From Prague to Vienna by public transport

You can reach Vienna from Prague by train, overnight train or by bus. A direct train travels from Prague Hlavní Nádraží to Vienna HBF and takes just over 4 hours. Overnight train trips usually take a little longer. A bus trip that begins at the main railway station in Prague and ends at Vienna Erdberg bus terminal is roughly 4.5 hours long.

From Prague to Vienna by air

It is possible to fly from Prague to Vienna. Flight time is just less than an hour in length. This excludes the time for any transfers to or from the respective airports, and the time between check-in and departure.

Guided tour to Vienna from Prague

Guided tours to Vienna from Prague are the perfect way to ensure a hassle-free and value-for-money experience that checks all the boxes in terms of sightseeing.  Additionally, you can expect door-to-door round trip transfer service, a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and the experience and knowledge of your carefully selected guide.

Tours and day trips range in length from 6 to 12 hours and typically include a pickup from Prague hotels, the airport or a centrally located meeting point.

What is the typical itinerary?

With a significant distance to travel, day trips to Vienna from Prague are typically full-day excursions or longer. For this reason, some tours also end in Vienna, allowing you the choice of whether to return to Prague by air, extend your stay in the city, or experience an overnight train or other return transport alternative.

Day tours typically begin early in the morning and you will head directly to Vienna. Once there, you will join your guide and group on a tour of the city’s most prominent attractions. Some tours allow time for independent sightseeing, and most itineraries include a lunch break.

After your sightseeing is done, you will either make your own way to your onward arrangements, or return to Prague with your group late in the evening.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Vienna?

Full day guided tours to Vienna from Prague

Guided day tours from Prague are full-day experiences, and some may end in Vienna. Whether you opt for an organized group tour, or book a private full-day experience, your tour will start in the early morning. Some tours include brief stops for sightseeing along the route, and Bratislava is a common waypoint on day trips from Prague.

If your tour is a return trip, then you will depart on your return journey in the late afternoon. Alternatively, you may have the option of remaining in Vienna overnight at your own cost, and either returning to Prague the next day, or continuing onward with your travels.

Multi-day private tour from Prague including Vienna

Multi-day tours from Prague that include Vienna are a better option if you would like to be able to take in more sights and sounds of the Austrian capital and the surrounding area. There are several tours to choose between, ranging from 2 to 7 days in duration.

Other destinations regularly visited on multi day excursions include Brno, Cesky Krumlov, Mikulov, Munich, Saltzburg and Budapest.

How much does a day trip to Vienna from Prague cost?

Full-day guided tours to Vienna from Prague start from €130 per person, with small group excursions costing from €350 per participant. Private excursions cost from €1,400 to €1,900 per group, depending on group size.

Prices for multi-day private tours from Prague including Vienna range from around €1,100 per adult and €250 per child aged 6 to 17 years for a 2-day tour to €5,000 for 2 people on a 7-day multi destination trip.

What will you see and do?

Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens

The Schönbrunn Palace was once the summer residence of the Habsburg monarchs, and is an architectural masterpiece.  The palace has a staggering 1,441 rooms, with several open to the public.  The surrounding gardens are expansive and beautifully maintained and feature fountains, statues, and the famous Gloriette which offers panoramic views of the city.

St. Stephen's Cathedral

Located in the heart of Vienna, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, also known as Stephansdom, is an iconic Gothic landmark with its iconic colored-tile roof and tall spires. You can explore the stunning interiors, climb the south tower for a magnificent view, or visit the catacombs which house the remains of many historical Austrian figures.

Belvedere Palace Complex

Comprising the Upper and Lower Belvedere, this baroque architectural wonder houses an impressive collection of art, including the world's largest collection of paintings by Gustav Klimt. The "Kiss" is one of the highlights of the Belvedere Palace's collection. The palace grounds are also beautifully landscaped, offering a peaceful retreat.

Viennese coffee houses

Vienna is renowned for its traditional coffee houses, where you can enjoy a cup of Viennese coffee accompanied by a slice of the famous Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel. These coffeehouses are not just places to drink coffee, but cultural institutions and gathering places for great thinkers and writers.

Hofburg Imperial Palace

This grand complex was the former principal imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty rulers. Today, it serves as the official residence and workplace of the President of Austria and visitors can explore the Imperial Apartments, the Silver Collection, and the Sisi Museum dedicated to Empress Elisabeth.

When is the best time to visit Vienna?

The best time to visit Vienna is from April to May or September to October when the weather is mild, and crowds are smaller. Spring brings blooming gardens, while autumn offers golden foliage. These seasons provide a perfect backdrop for exploring outdoor attractions, enjoying the city's famous coffee houses, and attending cultural events without the peak summer tourist influx.

Are there any tours to Vienna from other cities?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Austria, Hungary and Slovakia:

• Day trips to Prague from Salzburg
• Day trips to Prague from Budapest
• Day trips to Prague from Bratislava

Travel tips

• Book your train or bus tickets ahead of time, especially if you’re traveling during peak season or on weekends, to avoid sold-out situations.
• Check the weather forecast before traveling and dress in layers. Vienna can be breezy and cooler than Prague.
• While both countries are in the EU, the Czech Republic uses Koruna and Austria uses Euros. Cards are generally accepted, but it can be useful to have euros on hand for small purchases.
• Get a day travel card for Vienna's efficient public transport to move quickly between attractions.