Your Ultimate Guide: Backpacking from Bratislava to Krems
How to Travel from Bratislava to Krems?
The most common and budget-friendly ways to travel from Bratislava, Slovakia, to Krems an der Donau, Austria, are by train, often involving a change in Vienna, or a combination of bus and train.
What are the Best Public Transport Options and Costs?
The most efficient public transport option is typically by train, usually requiring a change in Vienna (Wien Hauptbahnhof or Wien Meidling).
- Train Journey: First, take a train from Bratislava Hlavná Stanica to Vienna. Tickets typically range from €10-€20 for a standard fare. From Vienna, take a regional train (e.g., REX or S-Bahn) to Krems an der Donau. This segment usually costs €10-€20.
- Total Estimated Train Cost: A one-way journey generally ranges from €20-€40, depending on booking time and connection. The total travel time is typically 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
- Bus + Train Combo: Alternatively, take a bus (e.g., FlixBus) from Bratislava to Vienna. Bus tickets can be found for €5-€15 when booked in advance. Then, transfer to a train from Vienna to Krems (€10-€20).
- Total Estimated Bus+Train Cost: This combination can range from €15-€35, but may involve more transfers and slightly longer overall travel time.
How Can I Save Money on Tickets?
Booking your train or bus tickets 2-3 weeks in advance can typically save you 20-30% on fares, especially for international routes like those to Vienna. Look for “Sparschiene” tickets on ÖBB (Austrian Railways) for discounted train fares. Being flexible with your travel date and time, opting for mid-week or off-peak hours, can also lead to lower prices.
Is Ridesharing a Viable Option?
Yes, ridesharing platforms like BlaBlaCar can be a viable budget option, though availability is not guaranteed. Prices for a shared ride from Bratislava to Krems (or a nearby town with easy public transport access) typically range from €10-€25 per seat, depending on the driver and demand. Always check the platform closer to your travel date for available rides.
What About Free Amenities in Bratislava and Krems?
To find free amenities like public restrooms, drinking water fountains, or free Wi-Fi spots in both Bratislava and Krems, consider using mapping apps like AllInMap.