flagal2

I saw an independent tour of Prague, Vienna and Budapest that included air travel between Prague and Vienna, and train between Vienna and Budapest. Would flying to Vienna really save any time once we factor in airport check in times...also, is the train between the cities a scenic drive? Thanks.

Dukey

In MY opinion that trip doesn't rate real high for spectacular scenery.

You can actually make the trip by train in as litle as 3 hrs 10 minutes BUT you might have to leave at 0530 AM to do it

mjs

We flew from Budapest to Prague in June via Vienna and total time from our hotel in Budapest to our hotel in Prague about 5 hours or less. Saves about 3 hours+ compared to the train.

Gavin

We enjoyed our train trip from Vienna to Prague last October. Certainly not the most scenic train trip in the world but not bad at all. The track is smooth and the train comfortable. We were in first class and had a compartment with six seats to ourselves.

basingstoke1

Just looking at the Prague to Vienna segmant, the plane would not save time - it would be a wash at best. We took the bus from Prague to Vienna and returned by train from Sudbanhof. The scenery from the train was not spectacular but was pleasant. Second class was not crowded at the time (end of October). The bus wasn't bad either and took only about 15-20 minutes longer than the train but that time was made up by the fact the bus lets you off right next to the Rathaus in the center of town. The bus was a typical European style intercity bus e.g. better than Greyhound, but did not have a toilet. There was a stop for necessaries about half way.

jonalex

I think for price, convenience and flexibility, having a private transfer between Budapest, Vienna and Prague is the best route. There are numerous posts on Mike's (for Vienna and Prague) and Bela Lukac's (for Budapest and Vienna)chauffeur and tour services. I am planning on using their services on my upcoming trip and their prices for two individuals is very comparable to the taking the train. Plus, they are more than happy to include a short stop over in interesting places along the way (wineries, spa towns, Cesky Krumlov, Bratislava, etc.). Why would you want to deal with taking a taxi or metro from your hotel to the train station, dragging all of your luggage up steps and not knowing where to store them on the train? Most destinations we travel to have trustworthy and informative private guides/drivers that pick you up whatever time you want at your hotel and deliver you to your next destination. The door to door service cannot be beat (especially if you have a spouse who doesn't pack lightly or is physically challenged). I have been on trains all over Europe and it is a quick way to travel if you are on a budget. However, for just a little more money and little more time (in some instances)--private drivers are the best way to travel.

mjs

I tried booking Mike in June and never got a reply to any of my e-mails.

jonalex

Here is the information for Mike's Chaffeur service in Prague (and throughout the Czech Republic and surrounds).
Mike's Chauffeur Service Address: U Zastavky 1/1535 140 00 Praha 4 - Modrany Czech Republic GSM: +420-(0) 602-224 893 Phone: +420-(0)2-41768231 Fax: +420-(0)2-41768231 E-mail: [email protected] [Website: www.mike-chauffeur.cz/]
I tried initially using the form on their website, but received no reply. I then sent an email directly and was received with a quick reply. Good luck. This company has come highly recommended by many fodorites, guidebooks and websites.

mjs-sorry this information was too late for your trip. How did you end up travelling?