If you’re planning a trip to Europe, be sure to add Prague and Budapest to your itinerary. These two cities are among the most beautiful and culturally rich destinations in the continent.
But how do you get from one city to the other? Here are some options.
By Train
One of the most popular ways to travel from Prague to Budapest is by train. The journey takes around 6-7 hours, depending on which service you choose.
There are several trains departing from Prague’s main station, Praha Hlavní Nádraží, every day. You can check out schedules and book tickets online through Czech Railways or Hungarian Railways.
- Pros: Trains are comfortable and offer scenic views of the countryside.
- Cons: Some services may require a transfer in Vienna or Bratislava.
By Bus
Another option is to take a bus from Prague to Budapest. There are several companies that operate this route, such as Flixbus and RegioJet.
The journey takes around 7-8 hours, depending on traffic and border control.
- Pros: Buses are usually cheaper than trains.
- Cons: Comfort may vary depending on the company and time of day.
By Car
If you prefer driving, you can rent a car in Prague and make your way down to Budapest. The distance between the two cities is about 530 km (330 miles), which takes around 5-6 hours without stops.
- Pros: You have more flexibility with your itinerary and can stop at other places along the way.
- Cons: You’ll have to pay for petrol, tolls, and parking.
By Plane
Finally, you can also fly from Prague to Budapest. Several airlines such as Czech Airlines, Ryanair, and Wizz Air operate this route.
The flight takes less than 2 hours.
- Pros: It’s the fastest way to get from one city to the other.
- Cons: You’ll have to factor in travel time to and from the airports.
Tips for Traveling
No matter which mode of transportation you choose, here are some tips to make your journey smoother:
- Book in advance: Tickets tend to be cheaper if you book them ahead of time.
- Bring snacks and water: You never know when hunger or thirst will strike.
- Pack light: If you’re traveling by train or bus, you don’t want to lug around heavy bags.
- Beware of pickpockets: Keep your valuables close and be mindful of your surroundings in crowded areas.
In Conclusion
Getting from Prague to Budapest is easy and affordable. Whether you prefer trains, buses, cars or planes, there’s a mode of transportation that suits your needs. Just remember to plan ahead, pack smartly and enjoy the journey!