A Day Trip from Bratislava to Vienna: Everything You Need to Know
A Day Trip from Bratislava to Vienna
During a visit to Bratislava, Slovakia, I found myself less than an hour away from Vienna, Austria. Despite knowing I wouldn’t be able to see the entire city in a single day, it was too tempting not to visit Vienna. After all, it’s only an hour away!
Is It Possible to Take a Day Trip to Vienna from Bratislava?
Absolutely! A day trip to Vienna from Bratislava is not only possible but also a fantastic way to explore another beautiful city. With efficient transportation options and major attractions within walking distance, you can make the most of your time.
Day Trip from Bratislava to Vienna: Everything You Need to Know - Table of Contents
- A Day Trip from Bratislava to Vienna
- Is It Possible to Take a Day Trip to Vienna from Bratislava?
- Getting There: Bratislava to Vienna by Train
- Arrival in Vienna
- How to See Vienna in a Single Day – Key Stops
- Vienna Tours and Packages
- Conclusions
- Support Buzzin’ Around the World – Visit Our Affiliates
- Earning Points and Rewards
- Related Content
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Getting There: Bratislava to Vienna by Train
The easiest way to get to Vienna from Bratislava is by train. There are two main train stations in Bratislava, but the one you’ll need is Bratislava-Petržalka, which is located on the outskirts of the city center. You can reach Bratislava-Petržalka by taxi, Uber, or a combination of streetcar and bus from the city center.
You can purchase a ticket from Bratislava to Vienna online, at the ticket office, or at one of the self-serve kiosks. The trains offer only 2nd class seats, with average ticket prices around €14. While Bratislava-Petržalka Station has fewer trains compared to Bratislava Hlavna Stanica, I found that the neither the station or the trains to Vienna were particularly crowded during my visit.
Arrival in Vienna: First Impressions
Upon arriving at Vienna’s Main Station (Wien HBF), I was a little overwhelmed. There is no passport control for traveling between Bratislava and Vienna since both countries are in the Schengen Area. Wien HBF is enormous and resembles a shopping mall more than a traditional train station. I took a moment to grab some food before heading to the entrance of the Vienna Metro (U-Bahn).
The U-Bahn entrance is located on the lower level of the station. Be sure to purchase your tickets from the ticket machine above the escalators and validate your ticket, as ticket agents were checking people’s tickets for validity during my visit. I opted for a day pass, which cost 8 Euros and allowed unlimited travel on the subway, streetcars, and buses for 24 hours.
How to See Vienna in a Single Day: Key Stops
It is not possible to see everything that Vienna has to offer in a single day. Below, I have identified the key places that I visited during my one day in Vienna. At the bottom of each section, I have added a tour of each section led by a local expert. Please note that as an affiliate of Viator, I will receive a small commission if you book a tour using one of my links. This commission is at no additional cost to you.
1. Stephansplatz and St. Stephen’s Cathedral
My first stop in Vienna was Stephansplatz, a bustling tourist hub. Stephansplatz was easy to reach from Wien HBF by taking the U-Bahn to Stephansplatz Station.
Located here is St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the tallest church in Austria. I spent about an hour photographing the church from both the outside and inside.
The sun’s angle made my initial photos challenging, but I returned later for better shots. Inside, expect large crowds, but don’t linger too long—there’s so much more to see in Vienna!
 Private tour of St Stephens' Cathedral, Catacombs & Vienna Central Cemetery - $250.00 Visit St Stephen's Cathedral on a guided tour and the cathedral's catacombs (with all tickets included). See the huge and original bell-clapper of the Pumering, which is the largest bell of the country and hangs in the cathedral’s north tower. Then hop in a car with your guide for a driving tour of the city's highlights. Visit the Central Cemetery, where you'll see the final resting place of world-famous composers, including Schönberg, Beethoven, and Strauss. After, visit Burggarten, where you will see Mozart’s memorial, and learn about the public park. Your tour ends in Central Vienna, where your guide will happily give you suggestions on how to spend the rest of your day. |
2. The Hofburg Palace
Next, I walked to the magnificent Hofburg Palace. This palace complex has been the seat of power for the Habsburgs and is home to the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Spanish Riding School. Entering through the St. Michael wing, I was taken aback by the stunning dome overhead.
Continuing through the interior courtyard towards Heldenplatz (Hero’s Square), I admired the towering Equestrian Statue of Archduke Karl. This location also has some negative historical significance, as it was the site of Adolf Hitler’s balcony speech in 1938. While I wished for more time to explore, I was grateful for the brief experience of this iconic landmark.
 Self-Guided Walking Tour in The Hofburg Palace in Vienna - $22.22 Situated in the very heart of Vienna, the Hofburg is one of the most famed royal residences in the world. That said, it is highly unusual for Europe: it is a combination of different eras that can confuse and captivate in its history and hallways alike. Together, we will explore its main attractions and their place in Austrian history. |
3. Volksgarten
After the Hofburg Palace, I made my way to the beautiful Volksgarten. This public park is known for its stunning rose gardens and classical statues. It’s the perfect spot to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy some fresh air.
4. The Austrian Parliament Building
Just a short walk away is the impressive Austrian Parliament Building. This neoclassical structure is home to Austria’s national legislature. The building is adorned with stunning columns and statues, including a striking fountain of Pallas Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom, in front.
5. Schönbrunn Palace
After leaving the Hofburg, I decided to visit Schönbrunn Palace. I made the mistake of assuming walking the grounds was free, only to find out that it required a ticket. I took the U-Bahn to Schweglerstraße Station, then transferred to the tram, only to photograph the palace from the outside. Next time, I’ll do my research to ensure I can fully experience its beauty.
 Guided Walking Tour of Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna - $45.28 Visiting a historic building without a certified and expert guide often, if not always, means wandering around many rooms without reference points. Observe wonderful paintings, furnishings and jewels without knowing why they are there and what relationship they have with the history and events of the people who lived in that place. In the case of a huge and historically important palace like Schönbrunn, this feeling of bewilderment is almost guaranteed. A one and a half hour tour with Mario will give you all the information you need to better enjoy the experience of the visit. At the end of the tour you can also take a more knowledgeable and expert look at the city itself and its history. The maximum number of participants is 8 people. The Tour is therefore ideal for those who want to visit the palace in complete tranquility, being able to ask questions and investigate the aspects of greatest interest. |
6. Vienna State Opera
After taking the U-Bahn to Karlsplatz Station, I photographed the historic Wiener Staatsoper (Vienna State Opera House). Did you know that this opera house hosts over 300 performances each season? It’s a cultural gem!
 Vienna City Walk Including Visit of the Opera House - $31.01 During a two and a half hours walking tour through the first district led by a licensed local guide you will see the most important sights of Vienna´s inner city and learn a lot about history, architecture and Viennese culture and traditions. But the best is yet to come: Enjoy a guided visit to Vienna´s State Opera, where you can take a look behind the scenes of this world famous cultural institution. Don´t miss out on this unforgettable experience only. |
7. Albertina Art Museum - A Great View
As the evening approached, I strolled towards the Albertina Art Museum, where the Albertina Lookout provides a stunning view of the city. The Archduke Albrecht Monument sits atop the Albertina Art Museum Lookout.
Below was the Memorial Against Fascism, a poignant sculpture that adds depth to the area.
8. Returning to Stephansplatz
Before heading back to Wien HBF, I stopped to admire the Aida Cafe, known for its traditional Viennese pastries. Once back at Stephansplatz, I found that St. Stephen’s Cathedral was much easier to photograph as the sun set, creating a beautiful reflection in nearby windows.
Vienna Tours and Packages
A tour is a great way to see Vienna in one day. Below are a few different tour packages that caught my eye. Please note that I am an affiliate of Viator. If you purchase a tour or package using one of my links, I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no additional cost to you.
 Introducing Vienna Walking Tour: The Capital of the Habsburgs - $31.97 You now have the chance to learn more about Vienna´s history, architecture, culture, and especially about the people who have lived here and those who are still living here. Get to know Vienna in a unique and different way, not just what’s listed in typical brochures and guide books. |
 Small-Group Naschmarkt Food Walking Tour in Vienna - $35.67 Discover the diverse flavors of Austria on this small-group 2-hour Naschmarkt walking tour in Vienna. Follow a guide through the bustling Naschmarkt and gain insight into a culinary history dating back to the 16th century. Along the way, mingle with Vienna’s locals shopping for fresh produce and sample some of the flavors on offer. Taste delicacies from the orient to the Mediterranean, and enjoy personalized attention from your guide on this small-group tour, limited to 15 people. |
 The Best of Vienna Walking Tour - $217.86 Planning a trip to Vienna? Why Vienna is famous? Looking for the top sightseeing places in Vienna? The majestic and royal city of Vienna offers a long collection of historic museums, sumptuous palaces, open-air markets and top attractions that you must visit once in a life. |
 Vienna City Center Small-Group Walking Tour - $54.77 Vienna is home to a number of gorgeous landmarks, from the Hofburg Palace and Town Hall to the Austrian Parliament Building and St. Stephen's Cathedral. Discover these classical sights, as well as some of the city’s hidden gems, on this approximately 2,5-3 hour, walking tour. As you wander around the city center, your guide will regale you with stories about the city’s history, architecture, and the many famous residents who have called Vienna home. |
 Vienna: Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour - $177.83 During the private tour, you will get to know the history and culture of Vienna and Austria. See iconic highlights such as St. Stephen's Cathedral and Hofburg, but also discover hidden gems of the city with incredible stories! |
Conclusion: A Day Trip from Bratislava to Vienna - A Day Well Spent
As I retraced my route back to Wien HBF, I got caught in a large crowd checking U-Bahn tickets, causing me to miss my train to Bratislava. Luckily, trains run every hour during peak times, so I wasn’t too worried. I decided to grab a giant cheeseburger at a station restaurant while I waited.
Eventually, I was on the train back to Bratislava, reflecting on my whirlwind day. I was glad I took a day trip to Vienna but felt I had only scratched the surface of what the city has to offer. Vienna is a city that cannot be fully appreciated in just a single day, and I look forward to returning to explore its rich history and vibrant culture more deeply. Next time, I’ll be more prepared to navigate the U-Bahn, trams, and bustling city streets!
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