Hi, I’m seeing train schedules that show seat reservation required. If I book train travel the day before in Czech/Austria, should I be ok getting a seat during the summer.
Is there a good website to book train travel. I’m not sure if my hotel will be close to the train station to book there and I don’t want to waste time making a special trip.
Prague to Cesky Krumlov
Cesky to Vienna, may use the shuttle
Vienna to Budapest
Prague to Cesky Krumlov - details instructions here from the highly regarded Man in Seat 61 - https://www.seat61.com/places-of-interest/day-trip-to-cesky-krumlov.htm
Cesky Krumlov to Vienna - you are best to use the CK shuttle or the Bean shuttle
Vienna to Budapest - again, I refer you to the Man in Seat 61 - https://www.seat61.com/international-trains/trains-from-Vienna.htm#Vienna-Budapest
As a general rule, only use the websites of the companies that operate the trains. NO RAIL EUROPE! Also, if you want the best fares, you need to book your tickets well in advance for the Vienna to Budapest leg. The day before will buy you the most expensive ticket only. When you book your tickets you can easily add a seat reservation to ensure that you have a place to sit and do not have the stand/sit on the floor.
Another vote for the Man in Seat 61 website ... it is the Bible of train travel in Europe ... he identifies the websites for that country's train line ... also has seat maps for trains ... https://www.seat61.com/european-train-seating-plans.htm ... I use booking.com to see where my hotel is in relation to the train station ... find your hotel, then click on 'show on map' ... your hotel will highlight, then just find the train station.
Generally, a train that is "seat reservation required" won't sell tickets when there are no seats remaining available. So waiting to buy the day before doesn't put you at risk of getting on the train and not having a seat. It puts you at risk of not getting on the train at all.
@Scudder - none of these routes, however, are reservation required...
I love the seat 61 website. Very helpful. I’m now thinking of taking the train from Krakow to Prague. Not a nonstop flight on the day that I’m planning on traveling. The train adds about 3 hours total travel time but I think it will be a wash if you include the arrival time before the flight and the time in airport upon arrival. Plus, the flexibility and being in the city center at both locations vs the airport.
