You can sit in wonder and awe, admiring the unspoiled vistas flashing before your window for the entire 137-mile (220.5 km) journey. However, stepping into the breathtaking picture book of central Europe or exploring the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage landmarks is something no keen traveler can overlook.

If you consider yourself a modern-day Christopher Columbus, you need the ideal mode of transportation to get from Prague to Passau. So keep reading our comprehensive guide and discover everything you need to travel on this route.

Early Passau

The city borders the Austrian frontier and is surrounded by the Landkreis Mountains, which are key reasons why the Roman Empire established a town here in 2 BC. The mountainous terrain provided excellent geological barriers against invading tribes. But its location, where the three rivers meet, meant it flourished as a trading hub when boats became Europe's primary travel method in the Middle Ages.

A fire engulfed the city in the 17th century. But locals quickly rebuilt the city in its distinctive baroque style. The area became the focal point for weapons manufacturing for Germany during World War II and fortunately escaped much damage from Allied air raids.

Modern Passau

Today, Passau is a unique city where pastel-colored buildings inspire you to relax and live a slower life. Sipping coffee in the abundance of traditional coffee houses littering the streets is the ideal way to blend in with the locals. Due to the 11,000 students at Passau University, growing tourism in infrastructure, and year-round festivities, the town is far from dull and offers visitors a generous welcome.

• Language: German
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Climate: moderate maritime
• Time zone: GMT+1
• Plug types: C and F

Do your homework

Although just 137 miles (220.5 km) of lush greenery separate Prague and Passau, the local cultures and ways of life couldn't be more different. This 1-hour journey gives you time to discover the changes you'll experience, such as the currency switching from the Czech Krona to the Euro, the language switching from Czech to German, and even unique tipping cultures.

Some information might make your life more straightforward, while others are essential.

Unwind in alternative Czech cities

Imagine stopping to soak up therapeutic thermal waters before continuing your journey from Prague to Passau. By visiting Cesky Krumlov, one of Europe's best spa towns, you can unwind in style and feel refreshed once you arrive in Germany.

If you're a beer enthusiast, stopping at Ceske Budejovice is a must! The city is home to the original Budweiser, where you can sample its flavors or even learn how experts make it at their distillery. Be sure to book a transportation service if you want to consume alcohol!

Don't forget to relax

The road from Prague to Passau is one of Europe's most underrated journeys. Therefore, many tourists aren't ready for the beauty flowing through the continent's heartlands.

Pack a light bag of leisurely goods, such as a neck pillow and ear plugs, in case of noisy passengers. If traveling by public transport, consider spending more on a first-class ticket or extra legroom for a more enjoyable experience.

Bus from Prague to Passau

The bus is the cheapest way to travel from Prague to Passau. Flixbus offers one daily direct connection at affordable prices.

Prague has ten bus stations, so double-check your departure point before purchasing a ticket. Also, some services arrive at Passau Train Station, while others arrive at Passau Bus Station. Find out which is closer to your accommodation so you don't have to spend extra cash on a taxi when you land in town.

• Cheapest/average cost: $14-$19.50 (€13-€18)
• Average bus duration: 3 hours, 50 minutes
• First/last departure: 7:40 AM–11:50 PM

Train from Prague to Passau

The train is the most scenic way to transfer from Prague to Passau. However, there are a few things to note before purchasing a ticket from Praha Hlavni Nadrazi to Passau Hbf.

Firstly, no direct lines run between the cities, which means changing at least once in Vienna. Also, you must buy a ticket early, as ticket prices can skyrocket if you wait until the last minute, and seats can sell out in the summer due to backpackers and interrail users.

Although it's more extensive than the bus, German train provider OBB offers punctual, reliable services with restrooms and an onboard cafe.

• Cheapest/average cost: $22.80-$45.60 (€21-€42)
• Fastest/average duration: 5 hours, 50 minutes; 7 hours, 35 minutes
• First/last departure: 5:45 AM–11:46 PM

Daytrip from Prague to Passau

Daytrip's private door-to-door service is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Prague to Passau. With our flexible schedule, you decide where and when you want your professional driver to collect you.

After they help with your luggage, you'll be whisked in a clean and comfortable vehicle through Europe's natural paradise. And with your optional sightseeing stops, you're free to explore Konopiste, a real-life fairytale setting; Sazava monastery, a tranquil oasis; or Pisek, a charming city to stretch your legs.

• Seats from: $66.25 (€61) for standard sedan
• Door-to-door Duration: 3 hours, 10 minutes
• English-speaking driver
• Equipped for pets, children, and those with limited mobility
• 24/7 English-speaking customer support
• Free cancellation 24 hours before departure!

Marvel at St. Stephen's Cathedral

Dominating the skyline of Passau, St. Stephen's Cathedral is renowned for its stunning baroque architecture and houses the world's largest cathedral organ.

With nearly 18,000 pipes, the organ fills the cathedral with magnificent sounds during regular concerts, attracting music lovers from around the globe. The cathedral's decorated interior, featuring elaborate frescoes and stucco work, is just as spectacular as the exterior.

Ascend up to the Veste Oberhaus

Veste Oberhaus dates back to the 13th century. Yet, it's still standing in pristine condition today. It served as a fortress and the stronghold for the Bishop of Passau for centuries. But in the 1930s, the government transformed this setting overlooking the city and the Danube into a museum.

Inside, you're free to roam the grounds and learn information about the multiple invasions on this site. If you need a lunch break, sit at the on-site restaurants offering traditional German cuisine while soaking up the fresh alpine air.

Cruise the Danube River

A cruise is the only way to explore a city sandwiched by three rivers. You'll glide over the flowing waterways while the city's most iconic landmarks speed past you. With your feet up and a gentle turn of your neck, you can admire the Veste Oberhaus, Veste Niederhaus, and the fairytale buildings in the Altstadt neighborhood.

Several companies dock from multiple points throughout the city, offering differing prices and experiences. Whether you want a full-day excursion or a few hours of basking in the sunshine, you can find an operator right for you.

The average daily high temperature of 67° Fahrenheit (19.5° C) is also ideal for outdoor activities. Captivating nature encircles the city, so you can enjoy a hike without feeling overpowered by the beating summer sun.

The Passau Spring Fair also takes place during this period for nine days, welcoming around 450 exhibitors. This may be the only time when you might feel crowded in the city. Since tourists don't overrun Passau, it's almost free from groups until the summer!