A train journey between Prague and Vienna that currently takes several hours could be reduced to around two and a half hours by 2040 under new plans agreed by Czech and Austrian officials.

Transport ministers from both countries signed a memorandum setting out joint ambitions for rail and road upgrades along key cross-border routes. The document outlines a long-term goal of significantly shortening travel times between the two capitals through major infrastructure investments.

Reaching the 2.5-hour target will depend mainly on the construction of a high-speed rail line between Prague and Brno, a project seen as essential on the Czech side.

The section forms part of the broader Via Vindobona corridor, which is designed to connect Berlin, Prague, and Vienna. Austrian estimates suggest the full route could reduce travel between Berlin and Vienna to about four hours.

While both countries are planning upgrades, Austria’s section between Vienna and Břeclav is expected to remain a limiting factor, even after modernization that will allow speeds of up to 200 km/h.

The agreement also covers several other rail corridors. One focuses on upgrading the Prague–České Budějovice–Linz connection, with a joint study by Czech and Austrian rail authorities examining the cross-border section.

Another project involves the Veselí nad Lužnicí–České Velenice–Gmünd–Vienna line, which is expected to serve as an alternative route and increase capacity for both passenger and freight transport.

Road projects are included as well. The Czech Republic plans to begin construction next year on the remaining section of the D52 motorway. In Austria, work continues on the S10 expressway, intended to link with the Czech D3 highway.

The Freistadt-Nord–Rainbach section is set to open next year, while the final stretch to the border is expected within roughly five years.

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