Prague is well connected by rail to its neighbours, and arriving by train puts you in the city centre. Journey times and operators change from year to year, so treat the figures below as rough guides and confirm current timetables before you book.
Where trains arrive
Most international trains stop at Praha hlavní nádraží, the main station in the centre, which connects to metro line C. Some trains also stop at Praha-Holešovice, which is on metro line C as well. Check which station your ticket shows.
Typical journeys
- Dresden: about two hours, a scenic ride along the Elbe through Bohemian Switzerland.
- Berlin: roughly four hours on direct services, via Dresden.
- Vienna: roughly four hours, usually via Brno.
- Bratislava: roughly four hours, usually via Brno.
- Munich: often five to six hours, sometimes with a change. Check the current options.
- Budapest: roughly seven hours on direct services. Many people break the journey in Bratislava or Brno.
Booking tips
- Compare ČD (Czech Railways), RegioJet and other operators. Prices and comfort vary.
- Book early for the cheapest fares, especially for weekends and holidays.
- Seat reservations are useful on busy routes.
- If you hold a rail pass, check whether the train needs a reservation.
- Keep your ticket on your phone or printed, and be ready to show it on board.
Compared with flying
For the cities above, the train is usually competitive once you add airport transfers and security time, and it is a comfortable way to arrive. See our flights guide if you are coming from further away.
After you arrive
Read getting around Prague for tickets and trams, and where to stay for neighbourhoods close to the station. For onward travel inside the country, see trains and buses in the Czech Republic.
Related: Plan Your Trip | Visa and Entry | Itineraries