We are going to take either the train or the Flixbus from Vienna to Krakow, in August. We could take either a daytime train or bus, or an overnight train or bus. Any thoughts on which might be a better experience, the train or the bus. It seems they both take about 7 hours.
Thanks
Posted by
Chicago
8159 posts
trains have more than one toilet and dining cars
Posted by
Denmark
150 posts
...and on a train, you can get up and stretch your legs anytime you want. That's something the bus doesn't offer.
There are also night trains connecting Vienna and Krakow. That can be a great alternative (IMO, everybody needs to try a night train at least once) and effective use of time.
Posted by
Tunbridge Wells
6113 posts
I would never use Flixbus after one bus driver nearly ran us off the road in France, after weaving around all over the road. The train would be my choice and certainly not a night train.
Posted by
Chicago
8159 posts
The bus is the best budget saving option
Posted by
Colorado Springs
2976 posts
In the "for what it's worth" department there are direct flights on Ryan Air connecting the two cities. With advance booking the cost is as low as 24 Euro (plus the usual ala carte nickle and dime add-ons for baggage, etc.) and takes approx. an hour.
Even with the usual delays getting to and from the airport you'd be saving most of a full day versus bus or train.
Never a night train - ever.
Posted by
San Francisco
14915 posts
Night train as an " effective use of time."...very true.
No problems at all with taking the night train for this journey. Unless the route stops at a certain town I want to see, then I would go for the night train here plus stretching out the trip traveling time.
I would put night bus option as a very last resort.
Keep in mind too that Wien Hbf is a night hub for central and east central Europe. Taking that option gives you more flexibility getting to Poland, Budapest, Germany, whichever direction, Munich, Hamburg, Düsseldorf, Berlin, Croatia, Italy, Slovenia.
Posted by
Fort Myers, FL
1868 posts
Trains have more advantages as previously stated. Unless you are super sound sleepers, I would avoid a night train because you will be worn out by not getting enough sleep which will cost you upon arrival. Try to get the earliest train in the 6-7 hour window frame with the least amount of changes. Be sure to get a seat reservation as well.
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15777 posts
I took flixbus from Krakow to Budapest in September. Had there been a flight option that would have been my choice. The journey waS interesting but definitely not enjoyable and it would be my absolute last choice.