Do you believe in traveling to Bratislava from Vienna, or do you want to bundle your visit to Vienna to Bratislava by ferry? Turn this journey into a once-in-a-lifetime memory! Instead of taking the train or bus, board a high-speed catamaran and travel along the Danube. In our guide, we’ve compiled all of the information you’ll need to travel from Vienna to Bratislava by ferry.
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Places of departure for the boat trip from Bratislava to Vienna
When traveling by boat from Vienna to Bratislava by ferry, there are two important places to visit: In Bratislava, the Pontoon Twin City Gate (HUMA 6) is located on Rázusovo nábrežie, opposite the Devin Hotel. In Vienna, the departure dock is located near Schwedenplatz, between Marienbrücke and Schwedenbrücke. Both locations are close to the city center and easily accessible via public transportation.
Twin City Liner provides comfortable transportation from Vienna to Bratislava.
Currently, only one company, Twin City Liner, operates regularly on this route. Lod.sk used to operate boats from Vienna to Bratislava by ferry, but they stopped doing so a few years ago and now only offer sightseeing tours of Bratislava and its surroundings.
The Twin City Liner can transport up to 250 passengers and provides a comfortable way to travel from Bratislava to Vienna and vice versa. There are more seat categories, ranging from first class to economy. The catamaran is fully air-conditioned, with cell phone charging stations, free wifi, and a buffet for refreshments.
Getting from Vienna to Bratislava by ferry: how long and how often?
The distance between Vienna and Bratislava is approximately 55 kilometers, with a 70-kilometer stretch along the river. However, travel time varies depending on the direction: from Vienna to Bratislava by ferry, which is down the Danube, it takes only 75 minutes. From Bratislava to Vienna, you must allow an additional 15 minutes.
The frequency of boat transport is heavily dependent on the season. Between November and February, there is usually no boat transport. Twin City Liner operates on a limited schedule during the off-peak season (March/April, October), averaging only a few days per week. During the peak season, there are several daily journeys. In 2023, the official season will run from April to October, with up to six trips per day (in both directions) planned. Boat trips from Vienna to Bratislava by ferry (and vice versa) are only available on weekends (Fri-Sun) between March and October.
How much does it cost to travel from Vienna to Bratislava by ferry?
We understand that taking a boat from Bratislava to Vienna is more expensive than any other mode of transportation, but trust us, it’s worth it.
The price of this adventure varies depending on the day you want to sail. A one-way boat ticket from Bratislava to Vienna costs €34 on Mondays through Fridays and €39 on weekends. The same applies in the opposite direction. There are some differences depending on which seat on the boat you want to book.
Children (0–2 years free, 2–11 years 50% discount), students, and the elderly can get tickets 50% off on Super Tuesday. Will you travel with your family? Depending on the date of the trip, you may be able to apply for a family offer that includes a free ticket for two children aged up to 17 who are accompanied by one adult. As a result, it is advantageous to inquire about this discount when purchasing tickets.
Tickets are available online at the Twin City Liner website or through the official Twin City Liner partner, Flora Tour. In Bratislava, tickets can be purchased directly on the pontoon at Rázusovo nábrežie or at the Flora Tour office at Kúpeľná Street 6. In Vienna, visit the “Vienna City” ship station near the previously mentioned Schwedenplatz, where boats dock. Booking over the phone is also possible; the phone number can be found on the Twin City Liner
More about Vienna to Bratislava ferry
Good news! You can travel with your four-legged family member or take a bike! A ticket for dogs costs 5 EUR and requires a valid EU vaccination certificate, muzzle, and leash. There are 12 bike spaces on board; the fee is €5, and reservations are required. The price includes hand luggage up to 9 kg.
Final Thoughts: Vienna to Bratislava by Ferry
While I enjoy boat rides, would I recommend taking the ferry from Vienna to Bratislava? Probably not, unless you just enjoy going down the Danube River. To be fair, it’s also a good way to see some of the major landmarks between the two cities. However, it is much more expensive than taking the train or bus. It is not any faster than both. I would not spend the extra money on the captain’s room, which provides no advantage over the cheaper seats.
