Travelling from the UK to Austria by coach

Austria is one of the most popular destinations in Central Europe, attracting millions of visitors each year thanks to its Alpine scenery, historic cities, winter sports resorts and excellent public transport network. Although there are currently no direct scheduled coach services between the United Kingdom and Austria, travelling by coach remains a practical and affordable alternative to flying.

Today, passengers travelling between the UK and Austria have two main options. RegioJet offers a premium journey with a guaranteed transfer in Prague, allowing passengers to travel from London to Vienna on a single booking. FlixBus, meanwhile, provides the largest international coach network in Europe, offering daily departures and access to a much wider range of Austrian destinations through coordinated connections.

If Vienna is your destination, RegioJet is often the most comfortable and straightforward choice. For Salzburg, Innsbruck, Graz, Linz, Klagenfurt, Villach and many other Austrian cities, FlixBus usually offers more frequent departures and greater flexibility.

This guide explains how coach travel between the United Kingdom and Austria works, compares RegioJet and FlixBus, describes the main coach stations and outlines what to expect before, during and after your journey.

Quick navigation

• Book coach tickets to Austria
• Why travel to Austria by coach?
• RegioJet — travelling to Austria via Prague
• Why choose RegioJet?
• FlixBus services to Austria
• RegioJet or FlixBus?
• Austrian destinations accessible from the UK
• How to choose the best connection
• Typical journey times
• Travelling from outside London
• London Victoria Green Line Coach Station
• London Victoria Coach Station
• Praha ÚAN Florenc
• Vienna — Austria's Main Coach Gateway
• Continue your journey across Austria
• Luggage allowance
• Seat reservations and onboard comfort
• Channel crossing
• Documents and border controls
• Austria during the winter season
• Why visit Austria?
• Austria's most popular destinations
• Travelling sustainably
• EuropeBus Travel Tips
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Final thoughts

Book coach tickets to Austria

Travellers currently have two main options when booking coach travel between the United Kingdom and Austria.

Booking in advance is strongly recommended, particularly during Christmas, Easter, summer holidays and the winter ski season when demand increases significantly.

Tickets are completed directly with the operator or booking platform selected. EuropeBus may receive a small affiliate commission from some booking links at no extra cost to you.

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Why travel to Austria by coach?

Coach travel offers several practical advantages over flying, especially for passengers travelling with larger luggage or planning longer stays. Unlike airports, international coach stations are usually located close to city centres, making onward travel easier and reducing transfer costs. Many passengers also appreciate generous luggage allowances, comfortable reclining seats, overnight travel that saves hotel costs, city-centre arrivals, environmentally friendly transport and competitive ticket prices. For travellers who enjoy overland journeys, travelling across several European countries before arriving in Austria can become part of the experience itself.

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RegioJet — travelling to Austria via Prague

Although RegioJet no longer operates a direct London–Vienna coach, it still provides one of the most comfortable ways to reach Austria by road. Passengers first travel on the international London–Prague coach before changing to another RegioJet service at Praha ÚAN Florenc.

The journey follows the corridor:

London → Brussels → Luxembourg → Plzeň → Prague

before continuing as:

Prague → Jihlava → Brno → Vienna

Both stages are booked together under one reservation, meaning passengers do not need to purchase separate tickets. One of RegioJet's biggest advantages is its guaranteed transfer. Even though passengers change coaches in Prague, the entire itinerary remains within the RegioJet network, providing a much more seamless experience than arranging separate tickets independently. Current services from London operate approximately twice weekly, making RegioJet a premium but less frequent option.

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Why choose RegioJet?

RegioJet has developed a strong reputation across Central Europe for offering a higher standard of coach travel than many competing operators. Depending on the vehicle assigned to the service, passengers may benefit from comfortable reclining seats, Standard and Relax travel classes, Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning, onboard toilet, reserved seating, generous luggage allowance and modern double-decker coaches on selected routes. For passengers travelling almost 24 hours to Vienna, these features can make a noticeable difference.

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FlixBus services to Austria

FlixBus operates the largest international coach network in Europe and provides considerably more travel options between the United Kingdom and Austria than RegioJet. Rather than relying on a single dedicated route, FlixBus combines numerous international services, allowing passengers to travel to Austria from London and many regional UK cities using one or more carefully coordinated transfers. Depending on your departure point, destination and travel date, journeys may be routed through major European hubs including Brussels, Cologne, Frankfurt, Munich, Prague, Paris and Nuremberg. This network-based approach gives passengers far greater flexibility than RegioJet. While the journey may involve additional transfers and can sometimes take longer, it opens access to almost every major Austrian city. Unlike RegioJet, which primarily focuses on Vienna, FlixBus offers convenient coach travel to destinations throughout Austria, making it the preferred option for passengers travelling beyond the capital.

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RegioJet or FlixBus?

Austria is one of the few destinations where both operators have distinct strengths. RegioJet focuses on quality rather than quantity. Its premium coaches, comfortable seating and guaranteed transfer in Prague make it an excellent choice for passengers travelling to Vienna who value comfort and a straightforward itinerary. FlixBus focuses on network coverage. With departures available on most days of the week and connections from many UK cities, it offers significantly greater flexibility and serves a much larger number of destinations across Austria.

Neither operator is universally better. The right choice depends on your final destination, preferred travel date and whether comfort or flexibility is your priority.

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Austrian destinations accessible from the UK

Although Vienna is the principal gateway, coach passengers can reach many destinations throughout Austria using RegioJet and FlixBus.

Passengers travelling beyond Vienna should compare both operators carefully. While RegioJet provides a simple one-ticket journey to Vienna, FlixBus often offers more direct itineraries to destinations elsewhere in Austria.

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How to choose the best connection

When planning a coach journey to Austria, the cheapest ticket is not always the best option. Instead, consider total journey time, number of transfers, transfer duration, departure city, arrival city, luggage allowance, onboard comfort and overnight waiting times. A slightly more expensive itinerary with a short transfer may save several hours compared with a cheaper option involving a lengthy overnight wait. For Vienna, RegioJet is often the better choice when its timetable matches your travel dates. For Salzburg, Innsbruck, Graz and other destinations, FlixBus frequently offers more convenient routings.

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Typical journey times

Journey times vary depending on traffic conditions, border procedures and connection times.

These times should be treated as a guide only and may vary according to the selected departure and transfer combination.

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Travelling from outside London

Passengers living outside London often benefit more from FlixBus. While RegioJet's UK service starts in London, FlixBus allows passengers to begin their journey from many regional cities including Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Bristol, Nottingham, Leicester, Sheffield, Liverpool and Cardiff, depending on the timetable. This can eliminate the need for a separate journey to London and, despite a slightly longer overall coach journey, may result in a more convenient trip.

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London Victoria Green Line Coach Station

Passengers travelling with RegioJet begin their journey at London Victoria Green Line Coach Station, located on Bulleid Way, only a few minutes' walk from both London Victoria railway station and the larger Victoria Coach Station. Although the names are similar, the two coach stations are separate facilities. Travellers should always check their booking confirmation carefully and allow sufficient time to locate the correct departure point. London Victoria is one of Britain's most important transport hubs, providing convenient connections by London Underground, National Rail services, London buses and Gatwick Express. Passengers travelling with RegioJet should normally arrive at least 30–45 minutes before departure, allowing enough time for boarding and document checks before the coach leaves London.

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London Victoria Coach Station

Passengers travelling with FlixBus usually depart from London Victoria Coach Station. As the UK's largest coach terminal, Victoria Coach Station handles hundreds of departures every day to destinations throughout Britain and continental Europe. Facilities typically include indoor waiting areas, cafés and food outlets, convenience stores, toilets, ticket offices, departure information screens, luggage facilities, taxi rank and excellent Underground and National Rail connections. Because several international operators use the station simultaneously, passengers should always check the departure stand shortly before boarding.

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Praha ÚAN Florenc

For passengers travelling with RegioJet, Praha ÚAN Florenc is the key interchange point between the United Kingdom and Austria. Located close to Prague's city centre, Florenc is the Czech Republic's largest international coach terminal and one of the busiest in Central Europe. Passengers changing coaches here will usually find indoor waiting areas, cafés, convenience shops, toilets, luggage lockers, ticket offices, currency exchange and direct access to Prague Metro Lines B and C. Because both services are operated by RegioJet, transfers are normally straightforward and protected under the same booking. For passengers with a longer connection, Prague's historic centre can be reached in only a few minutes by metro, although travellers should always allow enough time to return before departure.

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Vienna — Austria's Main Coach Gateway

Most international coach services arrive in or close to Vienna International Bus Terminal or Vienna Central Station (Wien Hauptbahnhof), depending on the operator and route. Vienna serves as Austria's principal transport hub, offering excellent onward connections throughout the country.

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Continue your journey across Austria

Although Vienna is the main arrival point for many international coach services, Austria's outstanding public transport network makes onward travel straightforward.

For many travellers, combining an international coach with an Austrian Railways (ÖBB) service offers the fastest and most convenient way to reach mountain resorts and smaller towns.

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Luggage allowance

RegioJet

Passengers travelling with RegioJet generally benefit from a generous luggage allowance. Typically this includes one piece of hand luggage, one checked suitcase, additional luggage available for an extra charge where offered during booking, and sports equipment on selected services subject to availability. Passengers should always check the latest conditions during the booking process, as luggage policies may change.

FlixBus

FlixBus normally includes one carry-on bag, one checked suitcase, optional additional luggage available during booking, bicycles on selected routes and ski equipment on certain seasonal services. Because international journeys often involve several countries, passengers should ensure all luggage is clearly labelled.

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Seat reservations and onboard comfort

Both operators allow passengers to reserve seats in advance, although the available options differ.

RegioJet

Passengers may choose between Standard and Relax seating, depending on availability. Advantages include reserved seats, additional legroom in Relax Class, comfortable reclining seats, quiet premium environment and modern long-distance coaches.

FlixBus

Seat reservation options may include window seats, aisle seats, front-row seats, table seats and panoramic upper-deck seats on selected vehicles. For overnight journeys lasting more than twenty hours, reserving a preferred seat is highly recommended.

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Channel crossing

Every scheduled coach journey between the United Kingdom and Austria begins by crossing the English Channel. Depending on operational requirements, coaches may travel via Eurotunnel Shuttle between Folkestone and Calais or ferry services between Dover and Calais. Passengers usually remain with the coach throughout the journey, although ferry crossings allow time to leave the vehicle and use onboard facilities before continuing into mainland Europe.

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Documents and border controls

Austria is part of the Schengen Area, but coach journeys from the United Kingdom still require formal border procedures. Passengers should travel with a valid passport, any required visa, travel insurance where appropriate, booking confirmation and documents required for onward travel if applicable. Border checks generally take place before entering mainland Europe. After entering the Schengen Area, travel normally continues without routine internal border controls until arrival in Austria.

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Austria during the winter season

Austria is one of Europe's leading winter sports destinations, making coach travel particularly popular between December and March. Passengers travelling during the ski season should consider booking early, checking luggage rules for skis and snowboards, allowing extra time for Alpine weather, and confirming onward transport from Vienna or other arrival cities. Many Austrian ski resorts can be reached conveniently after arriving in Vienna, making coach an excellent option for winter holidays.

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Why visit Austria?

Austria is one of Europe's most diverse travel destinations, offering far more than the famous sights of Vienna. Despite its relatively small size, the country combines imperial history, Alpine landscapes, world-class winter sports, picturesque lakes and an efficient public transport network. Whether you are planning a city break, a hiking holiday, a skiing trip or visiting family and friends, Austria is easy to explore thanks to its excellent coach and rail connections. International coach services provide an affordable gateway to the country, while Austria's domestic transport system makes it straightforward to continue almost anywhere after arrival.

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Austria's most popular destinations

Vienna

Austria's capital is one of Europe's great historic cities. Visitors can explore Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, the State Opera and the famous Ringstrasse while enjoying traditional Viennese cafés and museums. Vienna is also Austria's principal international coach gateway, making it the natural starting point for many journeys around the country.

Salzburg

Best known as the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for The Sound of Music, Salzburg combines Baroque architecture with spectacular mountain scenery. The city is particularly popular throughout the summer festival season and during the Christmas markets, while its location also makes it an excellent base for exploring the Austrian Alps.

Innsbruck

Surrounded by dramatic Alpine peaks, Innsbruck is one of Europe's best-known mountain cities. Visitors come throughout the year for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, cable cars and Alpine scenery. The city successfully combines historic architecture with modern winter sports facilities.

Graz

Austria's second-largest city offers a completely different atmosphere from Vienna. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town, vibrant student population and growing food scene make Graz an increasingly popular destination for visitors looking beyond the country's traditional tourist routes.

Linz

Situated on the River Danube, Linz combines a rich industrial heritage with innovative museums, galleries and cultural festivals. It is often overlooked by international visitors despite offering excellent transport links and an attractive historic centre.

Hallstatt

Frequently described as one of Europe's most beautiful lakeside villages, Hallstatt attracts visitors from around the world thanks to its spectacular Alpine setting. Although coaches do not usually terminate directly in Hallstatt, the village is easily reached from larger Austrian transport hubs using regional trains and buses.

Zell am See

Located beside one of Austria's most beautiful lakes, Zell am See is popular throughout both the summer and winter seasons. During winter it serves as an important base for skiing, while in summer visitors enjoy hiking, cycling and water sports.

Innsbruck, Salzburg and Vienna — which should you choose?

Vienna is ideal for history, architecture, museums and classical music. Salzburg combines history with Alpine scenery and is perfect for shorter sightseeing breaks. Innsbruck is the natural choice for outdoor enthusiasts and winter sports visitors. Many passengers travelling by coach choose to combine two or more cities during the same trip.

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Travelling sustainably

Long-distance coach travel is recognised as one of the most environmentally efficient forms of international public transport. Compared with travelling alone by car or taking short-haul flights, modern coaches generally produce significantly lower carbon emissions per passenger. Choosing coach travel to Austria can therefore help reduce the environmental impact of your journey while still providing convenient access to major cities throughout the country.

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EuropeBus Travel Tips

Before booking your journey, consider the following practical advice: compare both RegioJet and FlixBus before deciding; if travelling to Vienna, RegioJet may offer the better overall experience; if travelling beyond Vienna, FlixBus often provides more direct options; book as early as possible during Christmas, Easter and the ski season; allow additional time during winter because Alpine weather can occasionally affect road conditions; keep passports, medication, chargers and valuables in your hand luggage rather than your checked baggage; and download operator apps or save booking confirmations offline before departure.

These small preparations can make a long international coach journey considerably more comfortable.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a direct coach from London to Austria?

No. At present there are no scheduled direct coach services between the United Kingdom and Austria. Both RegioJet and FlixBus require at least one transfer.

Where do RegioJet passengers change coaches?

Passengers travelling with RegioJet change coaches at Praha ÚAN Florenc. The transfer is coordinated by the operator and forms part of the same booking.

Is the RegioJet transfer guaranteed?

Yes. When booked as one itinerary, the Prague connection is organised by RegioJet, allowing passengers to continue to Vienna without purchasing separate tickets.

Which operator is better?

If Vienna is your destination and comfort is your priority, RegioJet is often the better choice. If you are travelling to Salzburg, Innsbruck, Graz, Linz or other Austrian cities, FlixBus generally offers more flexibility and a wider route network.

Can I travel from regional UK cities?

Yes. FlixBus usually offers significantly more departure points across the United Kingdom. RegioJet's international service begins in London.

Can I continue beyond Vienna?

Yes. Vienna is Austria's principal transport hub and offers excellent onward connections by ÖBB trains, regional buses and additional FlixBus services.

How much luggage can I take?

Both operators include hand luggage and checked luggage, although exact allowances and optional extras depend on the operator and should always be confirmed during booking.

Are coaches suitable for ski holidays?

Yes. Many passengers travel to Austria by coach during the winter season. Depending on the operator and route, skis and snowboards may be accepted as additional luggage when booked in advance.

Do I need a passport?

Yes. UK travellers require a valid passport to travel to Austria.

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Final thoughts

Austria remains one of the easiest Central European countries to reach by long-distance coach from the United Kingdom, despite the absence of direct services. Two very different travel options are available, each appealing to different types of passengers.

RegioJet focuses on comfort, premium onboard facilities and a coordinated journey with a guaranteed transfer in Prague, making it particularly attractive for passengers travelling to Vienna.

FlixBus, by contrast, offers the largest coach network in Europe, providing daily departures, numerous regional UK departure points and convenient access to destinations throughout Austria.

Whichever operator you choose, travelling by coach offers an affordable, comfortable and environmentally responsible alternative to flying. With careful planning, advance booking and realistic expectations for journey times, coach travel remains an excellent way to discover Austria's historic cities, Alpine landscapes and world-famous tourist destinations.

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