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Bratislava from Vienna?

How much time should I allow for a day trip to Bratislava from Vienna? Early morning to night……or mid mid-morning to mid afternoon…..or ?????? The trip has to be within the context of one day…..no overnight. Thanks

Posted by
7010 posts

It depends somewhat on what you want to see in Bratislava. I left Vienna about 9:00am and was back there about 3:30-4:00pm. I didn't do a lot in Bratislava, just walked around the old town area (took a lot of photos), did some shopping at the souvenir market, had a wonderful lunch at a sidewalk cafe, then back to the train station and home to Vienna. I know there are lots of things you can see in Bratislava (the castle, a museum, etc) but I just wanted a laid-back relaxing day trip and I was very happy with the experience.

Posted by
5362 posts

You might find this article from the NY Times helpful.

I would say that mid-morning to dinner time is more than sufficient. Definitely take the bus (not the train) as it will drop you off in the center. The train station is a bit far out and it can be confusing to find your way. The Vienna bus station you should use for this trip is located at Erdberg, which is a stop on the U3 subway line.

Posted by
16893 posts

There are earlier buses on the schedule but you wouldn't find me on one before 9:15 or possibly even 10:30. Either one gets you to Bratislava before noon, with a good portion of the day to explore.

Posted by
8091 posts

Depending on the month you're going, you can go to and from Bratislava by a fast hydrofoil ferry. Most people take the bus for the 39 mile trip much of the year.

Bratislava is basically a full day's trip. It is a lovely small town right on the river. We were very surprised to find a very large, modern mall with a bunch of restaurants and sidewalk cafes.

Posted by
5362 posts

All of Vienna shops in Bratislava - things are cheaper there and shops are open on Sundays.

Posted by
500 posts

I've been twice from Wien and liked it a lot - interesting and pretty and unassuming. Why not allocate a full day to it? Why not stay overnight and just see what happens? More time means more focus and attention and opportunity for unexpected discovery.