Your guide from Prague to Hallstatt - realistically planned, clearly compared
From Prague to Hallstatt means connecting two worlds: the golden city on the Vltava and the tranquil Alpine jewel on Lake Hallstatt. Around 370 kilometers separate the two towns – a route that leads through southern Bohemia, past Český Krumlov, through rolling hills, lakes and finally into the mountains of the Salzkammergut.
But anyone planning this route quickly realizes that not every option suits every travel style.
With the train you travel comfortably, but with changes. Lake Bus is inexpensive, but requires patience. The Car gives you freedom, but demands organization. And the Private transfer is the stress-free option – direct, flexible and often the best choice for small groups.
In this guide you will find a clear comparison of all routes, including realistic times, estimated costs and practical 💡 tips.
You can also find out which option is best for couples, families or groups really worthwhile, which stopovers are recommended along the way – and why the journey from Prague to Hallstatt is part of the experience itself.
Route comparison: time - effort - costs
The route from Prague to Hallstatt takes you right across southern Bohemia and the Salzkammergut – past lakes, mountains and small towns. Depending on your choice, the journey takes between 4.5 and 7 hours per direction.
Whether you opt for a train, bus, car or private transfer depends largely on your type of trip. Here you will find all the options with realistic times, costs and practical recommendations.
1) Train – comfortable, but with changes
Time: approx. 6:30 – 7:30 hours each way
Effort: 1-2 changes
Costs: from approx. € 40 (early bookers) – usually € 60-90 return
The trip starts at Prague Main Railway Station (hlavní nádraží). You usually get into Linz or Attnang-Puchheim and continue to the train station Hallstatt – which is on the opposite side of the lake. From there, a small Ferry (10 minutes) directly to the town center.
When is it worth it:
If you are traveling alone or as a couple and love the train atmosphere.
💡 Our Tip: Secure seats on the left-hand side – they offer the best view of the lake. Also check the last ferry, especially in winter, as it often ends at around 5 pm.
2) Long-distance bus – cheap, but time-consuming
Time: approx. 6 – 7 hours in each direction
Effort: 1 change
Cost: approx. € 30 – 45 per person (one way)
The easiest option is to take the FlixBus or RegioJet from Prague to Český Krumlov or Linz. From there, take the regional train or bus via Bad Ischl further to Hallstatt Lahnthe bus terminal at the entrance to the village.
When is it worth it:
For price-conscious travelers who like to take breaks along the way.
💡 Our tip: Plan to spend 1-2 hours in Český Krumlov – the old town is one of the most beautiful in Europe and is right on the way.
3) Car – flexible and with photo stops
Time: 4:45 – 5:30 hours each way
Effort: no changes, but toll and parking search
Costs:
– Fuel (~740 km there & back, 7 l/100 km): approx. € 75 – 95
– Toll CZ + AT: approx. € 20 – 25
– Parking Hallstatt: up to € 18 per day
Total: approx. € 110 – 135 per day
Recommended route:
Prague → Tábor → České Budějovice → Wullowitz border crossing → Linz → Gmunden → Bad Ischl → Hallstatt.
When is it worth it?
For families or groups who like to stop spontaneously and enjoy the scenery along the way.
💡 Our tip: Start early – ideally around 7 a.m. – to avoid traffic jams near Linz and to find free parking spaces in Hallstatt (P1 – P3).
4) Group tour / bus tour – organized and relaxed
Time: Around 12 hours total (outward + return journey + stay)
Cost: approx. € 130 – 160 per person
These guided day tours start early in the morning in Prague and usually include a stopover in Český Krumlov. The stay in Hallstatt lasts 2-3 hours, return in the evening.
When is it worth it:
If you don’t want to plan your own journey.
💡 Our Tip: Make sure the groups are small – up to around 8 – 10 participants. This saves time and ensures a more personal experience.
5) Private day trip / private transfer – our recommendation
Time: about 10 – 11 hours (round trip)
Effort: no changes, flexible start time
Costs: from € 790 – 990 per vehicle
Advantages:
– Door-to-door service from Prague
– No changes, no stress
– Stopovers possible – e.g. Český Krumlov, Bad Ischl or Lake Gosau
– Ideal for 2 – 7 people (price is per vehicle)
Example route:
Pick-up in Prague – break in Český Krumlov (1 h) – continue via Linz & Bad Ischl – stop in Hallstatt (2-2.5 h) – return to Prague.
When is it worth it:
If you value comfort, flexibility and saving time. No changes, no overcrowded buses – instead quiet country roads, private breaks and a driver who knows the route.
💡 Our tip:
With several people, this option quickly becomes attractive in terms of price – and you get the most out of a single day.
Conclusion: The route from Prague to Hallstatt - a journey between two worlds
Whether you are traveling by train through southern Bohemia, gliding across the Alps by car or being chauffeured in comfort – the route from Prague to Hallstatt is more than just a connection between two places.
It is a short journey through Central Europe: from Bohemian Baroque to rolling hills and the clear lakes of the Salzkammergut.
If you value time and flexibility, the Private Daytrip the most pleasant solution. No changes, no timetable stress – instead you can stop on the way, take photos or enjoy a coffee in Český Krumlov. The day remains predictable, calm and full of impressions.
But no matter how you travel: Hallstatt welcomes you with its incomparable scenery, quiet alleyways and an atmosphere that goes far beyond a photo. The journey may be long – but it’s worth it with every kilometer.
💡 Our tip: Private day trip from Prague
Experience Hallstatt stress-free and in comfort – with your own driver, flexible start time and stopovers in Český Krumlov or Bad Ischl.
Ideal for couples, families or small groups who want to organize their day as they wish.