How to Get to Europe from Vienna
Traveling by air is an option, and Vienna International Airport (VIE) is an important hub offering direct flights to countless European cities. Flights from Vienna to Berlin take one hour and ten minutes, to Paris two hours, and even to Helsinki in northern Europe in 2 hours and 25 minutes!
Traveling to Europe by train from Vienna is an excellent choice. Vienna's main train station, Wien Hauptbahnhof, is a key hub for international rail connections. Trains connect Vienna directly with neighboring countries. A direct train from Vienna to Prague takes 4 hours, to Munich around 4 hours, and to Budapest only 2 hours and 20 minutes.
The closest European country to Vienna
Which European country is closest to Vienna? Slovakia immediately stands out. Its capital, Bratislava, is very close to Vienna - just 60 kilometers (37 miles). This makes it one of the few two European countries where the capital is so close. Bratislava is only about an hour away by train or bus, making it an ideal day trip. Other close neighbors include Hungary to the east and the Czech Republic to the north.
Europe Tours from Vienna and Popular Destinations
Usually, European itineraries from Vienna start with a visit to Budapest, followed by Prague and Bratislava. Of course, traveling to Munich or Berlin in Germany is also an option for many people. Moreover, Krakow and Warsaw in Poland, Ljubljana in Slovenia, and Zagreb in Croatia. Longer itineraries may even take you across the continent to destinations in Western Europe such as Paris, Amsterdam, or Ireland.
Popular European destinations from Vienna usually include:
● Budapest, Hungary: known for its Parliament building, Széchenyi Thermal Baths, and Buda Castle.
● Prague, Czech Republic: the Dancing House, Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle are landmarks here.
● Bratislava, Slovakia: you can explore its charming Old Town and Bratislava Castle.
● Munich, Germany: can't-miss attractions are Olympiapark München, Nymphenburg Palace, and local beer bars.
● Venice, Italy: experience its unique canals and Saint Mark's Basilica.
Day Trips from Vienna to European Cities
Slovakia's capital, Bratislava, is an excellent choice for a quick cross-border excursion, where you choose its historic castles to visit. Examples include Bratislava Castle and, slightly further away, Hrad Devín, where there are also views of the Danube.
Another popular train destination is Budapest, Hungary, which is about a 2.5-hour drive. Budapest's Central Market Hall, a Gothic-style building with a wide selection of goods, and Heroes' Square, a World Heritage site where you can see statues of seven tribal leaders, are also good places to visit.
Prague in the Czech Republic is also a great day trip destination, with a 4-hour train ride for early risers. Besides the popular sights, St. Vitus Cathedral and Ghosts Legends Museum can make for an interesting time.