Arriving in a city by water has a certain appeal and from around 70 € return also a great value trip. No traffic jams, no airport queues — just cruise in a catamaran along one of Europe’s great rivers, with Bratislava rising up to meet you at the other end. One of the most overlooked travel experiences in Central Europe is the 75-minute boat trip from Vienna to Bratislava.
The Boat: Twin City Liner
The Twin City Liner is a high-speed catamaran. The journey starts right at Schwedenplatz in the center of Vienna. For the first few kilometers, you’ll cruise slowly down the narrow Danube Canal. But once the boat clears the lock system and hits the main Danube river, the captain throttles up, and you’re flying downstream at nearly 60 km/h.
The boat runs up to three times daily during the main season (broadly April through October), with reduced weekend service in the shoulder months of March and November.
One practical note: book in advance, especially on summer weekends. The boat sells out.
Getting There: Vienna Side
Take the U1 or U4 to Schwedenplatz station and walk down toward the Danube Canal. The Ship Station City terminal sits between Marienbrücke and Schwedenbrücke. Arrive 30min before departure for a comfortable check-in.
Arriving in Bratislava
The moment you step off the gangway onto the Rázusovo nábrežie embankment, you are already in the heart of Bratislava. There are no long suburban bus rides or taxi transfers needed here. You simply cross the street, and you’re walking among the historic cobblestones.
Staying the weekend?
Drop your bags, check in, and head straight out — the Old Town is right on your doorstep. SKARITZ Hotel & Residence sits on Michalská street, putting Michael’s Gate, the Main Square, and St. Martin’s Cathedral all within a two-minute walk.
On a day trip?
You’ll have plenty of time to explore. Bratislava Old Town is compact and very walkable, and the boat schedule allows for a relaxed full day before heading back in the evening.
Whether you’re staying the weekend or just here for the day, our Attractions guide covers the best of the Old Town with walking times from the centre — a good starting point before you arrive.
Practical Tips
Season: The boat runs daily from May through September, and on weekends & Austrian public holidays in March/April and October/November.
Tickets: Book directly via the Twin City Liner website.
Currency: Slovakia uses the Euro, same as Austria.
Return: The last boat back to Vienna departs in the evening — check the current schedule when you book.
Why take the Boat to Bratislava?
The cruise, the scenery, the experience. Arriving by boat for a weekend away, that unhurried cruise sets the right tone for the start an awesom trip.
Two capitals, one river, 75 minutes. Bratislava is closer than you think — and a little more special than most people expect. Book directly with us for best rates!
Stay with us in Bratislava