Two capitals, very close
Hardly anywhere are two capitals as close as Vienna and Bratislava. About 80 kilometres of road separate the centres – ideal for a day trip, a business trip or getting to Bratislava Airport (BTS), where many low-cost flights depart.
Your options at a glance
By train
Regional trains connect Vienna Main Station with Bratislava. Depending on the line, you arrive at Bratislava main station or in the Petržalka district. From there, continue by tram, bus or taxi.
By coach
Several bus companies run between Vienna and Bratislava, some also from Vienna Airport. A budget option if departure point and destination suit the stops.
By boat
In season, the Twin City Liner links the two cities on the Danube – more of an experience than transport for travellers in a hurry.
By car
If you drive yourself, you need a motorway vignette in both countries. Parking in central Bratislava is often paid and scarce.
By private transfer
With the Bratislava transfer you ride from your Vienna address straight to your hotel, office or airport in Bratislava – no changes, no vignette and no hunting for parking.
Comparing the options
| Option | Start in Vienna | Arrival in Bratislava | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train | Main station | Main station or Petržalka | Day trips with light luggage |
| Coach | various stops | Bus station / stops | Budget travellers |
| Boat (season) | Danube Canal / centre | Danube bank, near Old Town | A trip as an experience |
| Car | anywhere | anywhere, central parking scarce | Self-drivers with vignette |
| Private transfer | Your address | Your destination address | Business trips, BTS airport, groups |
Bratislava Airport instead of Vienna?
Many travellers fly cheaply from Bratislava and stay in Vienna – or the other way round. What matters then is a reliable link between city and airport. Planned with your flight number, a transfer collects you as you land or gets you to your departure on time. Combining with Vienna Airport is possible too.
What to see in Bratislava
- Bratislava Castle: the landmark high above the Danube with wide views.
- Old Town: compact and easy to explore on foot, with the main square and Michael's Gate.
- St. Martin's Cathedral: once the coronation church of Hungarian kings.
- Blue Church: the Art Nouveau Church of St. Elizabeth.
- Most SNP (UFO Bridge): with a viewing platform above the Danube.
Practical tips
- ID: carry a valid passport or ID card even within the Schengen Area.
- Currency: Slovakia uses the euro.
- Vignette: required for motorways in both Austria and Slovakia if you drive yourself.
- Combine: Designer Outlet Parndorf lies on the way – ideal for a stop.