If you’re planning a trip to Europe and want to explore the beautiful cities of Budapest and Prague, you might be wondering how to get from one city to the other. Fortunately, traveling by train is a convenient and enjoyable option. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about how to get from Budapest to Prague by train.
Why Travel by Train?
Before we dive into the details of how to travel from Budapest to Prague by train, let’s take a moment to discuss why traveling by train is a great option. First and foremost, trains offer a comfortable way to travel with plenty of legroom and space for your luggage. Additionally, trains typically offer stunning views of the countryside that you might not see otherwise.
Choosing Your Route
There are several different routes you can take when traveling from Budapest to Prague by train. The most popular route is via Bratislava, which takes approximately 7 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train via Vienna or Munich, but these routes will take longer.
Route 1: Budapest-Bratislava-Prague
This route is the most direct and popular one among travelers as it offers some amazing scenic views along the way.
- Step 1: First, you’ll need to make your way from Budapest’s Keleti station or Nyugati station (depending on your itinerary) to Bratislava’s Hlavna Stanica station.
- Step 2: Once in Bratislava, take another train heading towards Prague.
- Step 3: Finally, after approximately 4 hours on the train from Bratislava, you’ll arrive at Prague’s Hlavni Nadrazi station.
Route 2: Budapest-Vienna-Prague
This route is a bit longer but offers the opportunity to explore Vienna along the way.
- Step 1: Start by taking a train from Budapest’s Keleti station to Vienna’s Hauptbahnhof station.
- Step 2: Upon arrival in Vienna, switch to a train heading towards Prague.
- Step 3: After approximately 4 hours on the train from Vienna, you’ll arrive at Prague’s Hlavni Nadrazi station.
Route 3: Budapest-Munich-Prague
This route is the longest one and takes around 10 hours, but it allows you to explore Munich along the way.
- Step 1: Take a train from Budapest’s Keleti station to Munich’s Hauptbahnhof station.
- Step 2: Once in Munich, switch to a train heading towards Prague.
- Step 3: After approximately 5.5 hours on the train from Munich, you’ll arrive at Prague’s Hlavni Nadrazi station.
Purchasing Your Train Tickets
Once you’ve chosen your route, it’s time to purchase your train tickets. You can buy your tickets online or at the station. However, it’s recommended that you book your tickets in advance as prices tend to go up closer to the travel date.
Tips for Riding the Train
Now that you know how to get from Budapest to Prague by train let’s discuss some tips to make your journey more comfortable.
- Seat Reservations: If you’re traveling during peak season, it’s a good idea to reserve your seat in advance to ensure that you have a comfortable journey.
- Luggage: Most trains have ample space for luggage, but it’s always a good idea to pack light and bring only what you need.
- Food and Drink: Many trains have dining cars or snack bars, but it’s also a good idea to bring some food and drinks with you just in case.
- Entertainment: Long train journeys can be boring without something to keep you occupied. Bring books, music, or download movies beforehand to keep yourself entertained throughout the ride.
In Conclusion
Traveling from Budapest to Prague by train is a comfortable and enjoyable experience. With several different routes available, you can choose the one that best fits your travel needs. Don’t forget to book your tickets in advance and pack light – happy travels!