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Walk in Sisi’s Footsteps: The Story of an Austrian Empress

13 Days / 12 Nights

Geneva, Munich, Salzburg, Vienna, Budapest

Travel and LeisureFodorsUSA TodayNew York TimesNational GeographicWashington PostVogue

Follow the life of the Austrian Empress Elisabeth, better known as "Sisi," from her youth to her happiest days, to where she breathed her last. You'll join the official "Sisi's Road" route where her life ironically came to a violent end in Geneva, the "Capital of Peace." You'll fly to Munich, her birthplace. There, you can visit her beloved childhood palace Possenhoffen, or visit Augsburg, where her brother had a scandalous affair, frowned upon by her favorite niece. You'll take the Empress Elisabeth Line to Salzburg and its Elisabeth District. Afterward, en route to Vienna, you can stop at Bad Ischl, the resort town where Sisi and Franz Josef first met, home to a palace built just for her. In grand Vienna, you can visit Sisi's three palaces, from where she spent many of her summers (complete with a collection of her carriages), to where she honeymooned. You can also visit Sisi's grave, along with those of her husband and son. Finally, in Budapest, you can see where Sisi was crowned Queen of Hungary, and visit the palace where Sisi spent many summer months with her Hungarian friends.

The services we provide as part of our comprehensive packages include accommodations, private door-to-door long-distance transfers, train tickets, short intra-European flights, airport and train station transfers, city tours, and day trips. In addition to the tours included, we can arrange a number of excursions based on your own interests. All of our tours are custom, and this is just a sample meant to give an idea of what our trips are like, and the opportunities our destinations provide.

One of our team members in the region will be available to you leading up and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these destinations have to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon arrival, we will provide you with a local SIM that you can use to contact your tour manager throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 2-5 star accommodation options, including boutique hotels, charming B&Bs, and spacious apartments. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambience.

Route for Geneva, Munich, Salzburg, Vienna, Budapest tour

2 Nights in Geneva

2 Nights in Geneva

3 days in Geneva
3 days in Geneva

2 Nights in Geneva

Switzerland's second city and main French-speaking metropolis, this proud "Protestant Rome" was once John Calvin's capital, but is now famous as the eminently livable "Capital of Peace." A cosmopolitan center of global diplomacy from the Red Cross to much of the UN, Geneva is the scenic spot where the Rhone leaves Lake Geneva. The watchmaker's Mecca, Geneva offers impressive shopping and fine dining, but one of the best activities is free: walking through the Old Town and by the lake. Most of the city is reminiscent of France (which nearly surrounds it) although the more bohemian Carouge district draws plenty of locals thanks to its Mediterranean atmosphere. An hour's drive away, Mont Blanc (the Alps' highest peak) is easy to spot.

Switzerland's second city and main French-speaking metropolis, this proud "Protestant Rome" was once John Calvin's capital, but is now famous as the eminently livable "Capital of Peace." A cosmopolitan center of global diplomacy from the Red Cross to much of the UN, Geneva is the scenic spot where the Rhone leaves Lake Geneva. The watchmaker's Mecca, Geneva offers impressive shopping and fine dining, but one of the best activities is free: walking through the Old Town and by the lake. Most of the city is reminiscent of France (which nearly surrounds it) although the more bohemian Carouge district draws plenty of locals thanks to its Mediterranean atmosphere. An hour's drive away, Mont Blanc (the Alps' highest peak) is easy to spot.

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Geneva

Upon arriving to Geneva's airport, a driver will pick you up and take you to your accommodations.

Lakeside Allure

Suggestion to explore on your own

Just arrived in Geneva? Head for the lake! Specifically, the lakeside bars, where you can sip colorful cocktails, have a glass of bubbly, or enjoy a simple cold drink and make plans for this gem of a city. The most iconic place is the floating Bateau Lavoir, which resembles the floating "washing boats" where 19th century women did their laundry. The city of Geneva has gained the attention of some exceptional personalities. To mention just one such luminary, Empress Elisabeth, AKA "Sisi" was a fan of the lake, although her love ended in tragedy on September 10, 1898, when she ran into an anarchist looking to take the life of a sovereign. Having arrived too late to assassinate one one of the lake's royal fans, he ran into Sisi instead, stabbing her. The grievously wounded empress boarded the Bateau Genéve, a steamship, where she passed away. Sold for scrap in the 70s, the boat was preserved, and transforms into a memorable floating restaurant every summer.

Lakeside Allure

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Geneva

Geneva Old Town Private Walking Tour

Explore the Protestant Rome

Included in your vacation package price.

By captivated by the charm and prosperity of Geneva on a private walking tour through its Old Town. You'll discover the history of this border town, and the similarities in culture and differences in religious history with France. Your private guide will reveal the city's secrets and must-know facts and tips.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 2 hours

Sway Me More

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Enjoy Lake Geneva's fabulous views of the mountains surrounding the city, neighboring parks, and fantastic architecture. Of course, water calls for a cruise...

An evening off the coast - the Captain's Table Gastronomy Cruise

An evening off the coast - the Captain's Table Gastronomy Cruise

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Embark on the Belle-Époque Savoie boat with Chef Jean-Sébastien Pouch and let your taste buds enjoy marvels. As you enjoy a scenic cruise, you'll enjoy refined, subtle cuisine that reflects the best of the Belle-Époque period, over a century ago. This tour only includes a set three-course meal or the selections from the a la carte menu.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 3 hours

Geneva Group Sightseeing Cruise

Geneva Group Sightseeing Cruise

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Lounge aboard a sightseeing boat and let yourself be transported across the bay to discover the shores of Geneva and their secrets. Your audio guide will explain the history of the English Garden, the Geneva Jet d’eau, and Swiss watchmaking, among other topics, and include some amazing anecdotes. You will be able to admire the parks, magnificent villas, monuments, and the Palais des Nations that border the Petit-Lac.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 50 minutes

Day 3

Day 3 - Traveling to Munich by Airplane

Today you are off to Bavaria's charming capital, Munich. We will arrange a driver to take you to Geneva's airport and a direct flight that will bring you to Munich's airport.


Please note that the flight included in your package is non-refundable. In case you would prefer more flexibility, we can check the flexible fares for you and let you know about the price difference. In addition, the price of the flights is subject to change until we receive your deposit.

Munich by Air

3 Nights in Munich

3 Nights in Munich

4 days in Munich
4 days in Munich

3 Nights in Munich

With its traditional beer halls, designer shops, trendy restaurants and international business, Munich is a mix of old and new, German and cosmopolitan. Largely rebuilt after World War II, the city still retains its old world charm, even in the midst of expansion and modernization. You’ve probably heard of the city’s world famous Oktobertfest, a once-in-a-lifetime party dedicated to that incredible Bavarian beer along with some of the local delicacies, including tasty schnitzel. But there’s much more to Munich than drinking, and on your holiday you’ll have the chance to discover the best this charming city has to offer. Don’t miss out on the beer halls and the breweries, but be sure to get off the beaten path to discover a Munich of your own. Much of the city’s past centers around World War II, and there are several ways you can explore this chapter of Munich’s history, including a day trip to the Dachau concentration camp and a special tour focusing on Hitler and the local activities of the Third Reich. Munich is also a center of industry and there is nowhere better to experience this than BMW World. Moving slightly farther afield, Neuschwanstein Castle makes the perfect day trip, perched high in the hills over a verdant valley. Munich’s variety means there’s more than enough to satisfy even the most diverse groups of travelers. Let your curiosity guide you as you explore this unique German city.

With its traditional beer halls, designer shops, trendy restaurants and international business, Munich is a mix of old and new, German and cosmopolitan. Largely rebuilt after World War II, the city still retains its old world charm, even in the midst of expansion and modernization. You’ve probably heard of the city’s world famous Oktobertfest, a once-in-a-lifetime party dedicated to that incredible Bavarian beer along with some of the local delicacies, including tasty schnitzel. But there’s much more to Munich than drinking, and on your holiday you’ll have the chance to discover the best this charming city has to offer. Don’t miss out on the beer halls and the breweries, but be sure to get off the beaten path to discover a Munich of your own. Much of the city’s past centers around World War II, and there are several ways you can explore this chapter of Munich’s history, including a day trip to the Dachau concentration camp and a special tour focusing on Hitler and the local activities of the Third Reich. Munich is also a center of industry and there is nowhere better to experience this than BMW World. Moving slightly farther afield, Neuschwanstein Castle makes the perfect day trip, perched high in the hills over a verdant valley. Munich’s variety means there’s more than enough to satisfy even the most diverse groups of travelers. Let your curiosity guide you as you explore this unique German city.

Day 3

Day 3 - Arrival in Munich

When you arrive in Munich, a driver will be waiting to meet you and will then bring you to your centrally located accommodation.

First Night, First Beers

Suggestion to explore on your own

When in Munich, drink as the locals do. Munich has certainly earned its title as “Beer Capital of the World,” so what could be a better activity for your first night than going to one of its famed beer halls, meeting locals, and hearing their stories? If you’re the teetotalling type or raucous beer halls aren’t your thing, you can take a nice walk down Neuhauser Strasse, followed by the Kaufingerstrasse, leading to the city’s most famous square, the Marienplatz, with its magnificent city hall, the Neues Rathaus.

First Night, First Beers

Day 4

Day 4 - Your First Full Day in Munich

Munich Private Walking Tour

Munich Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

See Munich's key historical sites, most beautiful churches, and most famous beer halls. This tour won't ignore the more sinister aspects of 20th century Nazi history, but also you'll see the better sides of this lovely city, hearing the best stories and most interesting facts as you go.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 3 hours

Carefree Moments from Sisi's Life

Suggestion to explore on your own

If you have been captivated by the life of Elisabeth, Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary, then follow in her footsteps and visit reminders of the happiest moments of her life. Not only was she born in Munich, she also relished growing up in the Bavarian landscape. Take an S-Bahn train to Starnberg along the Starnberger See. From there, ride a ferry across the lake to Possenhofen, the beloved palace where she spent her summer vacations. For a more urban trip, ride a train to ancient Augsburg, Sisi's "City of Scandal." On these streets (protected by a UNESCO-listed 800-year old water management system), Sissi's brother Duke Ludwig had his scandalous love affair with the actress Henriette Mendel, and Sisi's favorite niece, Marie-Louise, raised a ruckus.

Carefree Moments from Sisi's Life

Day 5

Day 5 - Your Second Full Day in Munich

Neuschwanstein Castle Small Group Tour

Wait a Minute - That's the Disney Castle!

Included in your vacation package price.

This small group tour is a more comfortable way of visiting the Neuschwanstein Castle. Join this carefully designed excursion, which balances must-see sites and hidden gems. Visit the world-famous Neuschwanstein Castle, stop at a less touristy yet still charming town of Rottenbuch, feel the sacred energy of the UNESCO-listed pilgrimage church in Wies, then treat yourself with cold cuts at a traditional Bavarian cheese farm.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 9 hours

Day 6

Day 6 - Traveling to Salzburg by Train

Leave the big city of Munich behind today for the idyllic Alpine town of Salzburg. It's an easy travel day, as the trip takes about 1.5 hours and there are trains running through the day. Based on your preferred departure time, we'll arrange for a driver to transfer you to the train station. Your package includes second-class tickets with seat reservations. Upgrades to first are available for an additional fee.

You can upgrade your transfer

Upgrade to Salzburg by Private Transfer with a Stop at Neuschwanstein Castle

Salzburg by Private Transfer with a Stop at Neuschwanstein Castle

Upgrade for an additional cost

2 Nights in Salzburg

2 Nights in Salzburg

3 days in Salzburg
3 days in Salzburg

2 Nights in Salzburg

With its perfectly preserved UNESCO-listed Old Town, Salzburg is internationally renowned for its baroque architecture. Add in the alpine backdrop and you’ve got a city that makes for an unforgettable vacation. The imposing Salzburg Cathedral and Hohensalzburg Fortress dominate the skyline, while in the center you’ll find plenty of grand cafes and fine restaurants. Salzburg’s two biggest claims to fame are that it was the birthplace of Mozart and the stage for the timeless musical The Sound of Music. But there’s more than just history here. Today the city is a vibrant destination for travelers looking for a mix of classic culture and modern flair. Strolling through Salzburg is one of the great pleasures of Europe. The local cuisine is hearty and there are more than enough restaurants, bars, and cafes to keep you busy. Beer lovers shouldn’t miss sampling a stein or two of delicious local brew at the Augustiner brewery. But there is so much to see in the surrounding region that no visit to the city is complete without a day trip or two. You could tour the pristine countryside and visit the stunning Hellbrunn Palace. History buffs will want to venture farther afield to visit Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest perched high in the German Alps in Berchtesgaden.

With its perfectly preserved UNESCO-listed Old Town, Salzburg is internationally renowned for its baroque architecture. Add in the alpine backdrop and you’ve got a city that makes for an unforgettable vacation. The imposing Salzburg Cathedral and Hohensalzburg Fortress dominate the skyline, while in the center you’ll find plenty of grand cafes and fine restaurants. Salzburg’s two biggest claims to fame are that it was the birthplace of Mozart and the stage for the timeless musical The Sound of Music. But there’s more than just history here. Today the city is a vibrant destination for travelers looking for a mix of classic culture and modern flair. Strolling through Salzburg is one of the great pleasures of Europe. The local cuisine is hearty and there are more than enough restaurants, bars, and cafes to keep you busy. Beer lovers shouldn’t miss sampling a stein or two of delicious local brew at the Augustiner brewery. But there is so much to see in the surrounding region that no visit to the city is complete without a day trip or two. You could tour the pristine countryside and visit the stunning Hellbrunn Palace. History buffs will want to venture farther afield to visit Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest perched high in the German Alps in Berchtesgaden.

Day 6

Day 6 - Arrival in Salzburg

Upon your arrival in Salzburg a driver will meet you at the train station and bring you to your hotel.

A Stop on Sisi's Road

Suggestion to explore on your own

Upon your arrival or departure from Salzburg, take a minute and explore the surroundings of the Salzburg train station. First opened in 1860 as a border train station on the Empress Elisabeth Line, this station was part of a route running from Vienna to Bavaria. Rail travel back in those days was quite the chic affair, reflected in an array of appropriately upscale hotels and restaurants located in the immediate vicinity of the station. It should be little surprise then that the station's surroundings are known as the Elisabeth District. A statue of the beloved Empress "Sisi" stands before the Hotel Europa nearby, an ever-present reminder of Salzburg’s illustrious past.

Day 7

Day 7 - Your First Full Day in Salzburg

Salzburg Private Walking Tour

Discover the Northern Rome

Included in your vacation package price.

Discover the beauty of Mozart's hometown as an experienced guide leads you on a walk through the UNESCO-listed city of Salzburg. Your walk includes all the sightseeing highlights, such Mozart's Birth House, Mozart's Residence, Getreidegasse, the Cathedral, Residenz Palace, and Mirabell Palace with its splendid gardens. If you come across anywhere you'd like to spend more time and and go inside, your expert local guide will tailor the tour to your interests. This is the best way to discover the city.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 2 hours 30 minutes

Storytelling Mountains

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

What an abundance of thrilling history! Discover the mountains embracing Salzburg near and far. Take it leisurely and become a salt miner for a day or learn about the darkest side of history via visiting the Eagle's Nest. All these are possible on half-day trips.

Berchtesgaden Salt Mine Group Tour

Berchtesgaden Salt Mine Group Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

This excursion to the nearby salt mines is a delightful combination of unforgettable experiences. Becoming a salt miner for a few hours and traversing the caves with a train, toboggan, and boat will give you a great picture about what it does it feel like to spend working hours in a salt mine. The road to the mines and back takes you through a captivating mountainous landscape. The hard work as a miner will be rewarded with a break at the picturesque Berchtesgaden where you'll get the chance to taste some local delicacies.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 4 hours

Bavarian Mountains Group Tour

Bavarian Mountains Group Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

See the Obersalzberg mountain and visit King's Lake (Koenigsee) on an unparalleled route with breathtaking views of snowcapped mountaintops. You'll have some time to walk along the shores of the lake and embrace its nature. You'll also enjoy a long stop at the picturesque town of Berchtesgaden, where you can taste Bavarian specialties (food not included).


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 4 hours

Concert in the Mirabell Palace

The City of Music

Included in your vacation package price.

Choose a true musical treat during your stay in Salzburg. The Mirabell Palace's grandiose Baroque-style Marble Hall awaits connoisseurs and enthusiasts of classical music almost daily. Apart from Mozart, pieces of Schubert, Vivaldi, Beethoven, and many more form the list of compositions. Experience the talent of soloists and ensembles dedicated to transmitting the musical spirit and heritage of Salzburg.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes

Day 8

Day 8 - Traveling to Vienna by Private Transfer

Today you'll trade scenic Salzburg for imperial Vienna. A driver will meet you at your accommodations in Salzburg and take you to Vienna, with a stop at Bad Ischl. A picturesque spa town known for its fine pastries, it's no surprise Emperor Franz Josef spent his summers there. Here in 1853 the 23-year old emperor and the 15-year old girl from the House of Wittelsbach met for the first time. They fell in love and became engaged on August 19, 1853. Be sure to visit the Kaiservilla and the Marmorschlössl "(Little Marble Palace,") specially designed for Princess Elisabeth. With a 2-hour stop, this non-guided transfer takes about seven hours.

Vienna by Private Transfer with a Stop in Bad Ischl

2 Nights in Vienna

2 Nights in Vienna

3 days in Vienna
3 days in Vienna

2 Nights in Vienna

Vienna is a timeless city of high culture, grand cafes, breathtaking architecture and more, all set on the banks of the majestic Danube River. The moment you set foot in the city you’ll see why Vienna’s center is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Often regarded as the world capital of music, Vienna is the place where Beethoven and Mozart made history. Even today a visit to the opera or a classical music performance at one of the city’s sublime concert halls is an unforgettable experience. Stephansplatz, Vienna's main square, is dominated by the impressive eponymous gothic St. Stephen's Cathedral. Inside you’ll find a rich collection of artistic treasures, and the view from the tower is well worth the climb, offering amazing views over the city. But the cathedral is only one of the most visible attractions in Vienna. You won’t want to miss the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace and the imperial Hofburg Palace. Explore the city on foot, in a car, or by bike: the choice is yours. If you’d like to go farther afield you can even take a river cruise to nearby Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, or a bike trip to local wineries. But you don’t have to leave Vienna to have a wonderful time. Simply strolling through the pedestrian zones in the city center and stopping for a coffee and a slice of cake make for a truly enjoyable vacation.

Vienna is a timeless city of high culture, grand cafes, breathtaking architecture and more, all set on the banks of the majestic Danube River. The moment you set foot in the city you’ll see why Vienna’s center is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Often regarded as the world capital of music, Vienna is the place where Beethoven and Mozart made history. Even today a visit to the opera or a classical music performance at one of the city’s sublime concert halls is an unforgettable experience. Stephansplatz, Vienna's main square, is dominated by the impressive eponymous gothic St. Stephen's Cathedral. Inside you’ll find a rich collection of artistic treasures, and the view from the tower is well worth the climb, offering amazing views over the city. But the cathedral is only one of the most visible attractions in Vienna. You won’t want to miss the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace and the imperial Hofburg Palace. Explore the city on foot, in a car, or by bike: the choice is yours. If you’d like to go farther afield you can even take a river cruise to nearby Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, or a bike trip to local wineries. But you don’t have to leave Vienna to have a wonderful time. Simply strolling through the pedestrian zones in the city center and stopping for a coffee and a slice of cake make for a truly enjoyable vacation.

Day 8

Day 8 - Arrival in Vienna

Your driver will bring you directly to your accommodations upon your arrival.

The Homes and Holidays of the Habsburgs

Suggestion to explore on your own

Vienna stands out from other formerly imperial cities in many ways, but among them are its matchless grandiosity and opulence. A city that embraces centuries of history and traditions, there are three must-see palaces, especially if you want to follow Sisi's footsteps. The most central is the Hofburg, where exploring the Imperial Chambers will give you the clearest idea about the empress' and emperors daily life. Schönbrunn takes you a bit further out, allowing you a glimpse behind the scenes on how the Habsburgs spent their summers. Finally, just 20 minutes from Vienna are the fairy-tale like Laxenburg Castles, where Franz Josef and Sisi honeymooned, amid a complex of family palaces and gardens.

The Homes and Holidays of the Habsburgs

Day 9

Day 9 - Your First Full Day in Vienna

Vienna Private Walking Tour

Classic and Hidden Gems of Vienna

Included in your vacation package price.

Tour Vienna's Old Town and listen to captivating stories from one of our local guides on this special excursion. The tour includes a perfect blend of old and new, from historic buildings to modern architecture, and insider info on places to eat and drink. This private English-language walking tour not only offers a great introduction to the city, but also delves deep into the city's amazing history, from the darkest hours to the brightest moments.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 2 hours 30 minutes

Schonbrunn Palace Self-Guided Grand Tour

Baroque Beauty

Included in your vacation package price.

The Schönbrunn Palace sits atop many people's list of must-see sights within Vienna. Join the self-guided Grand Tour and learn about the lives of the royals who lived within the Schönbrunn's walls with skip-the-line tickets, which come with a 60-minute audio guide tour and entrance to 40 rooms. After the tour we recommend continuing to explore the palace's sprawling grounds on your own. Check out the "Wagenburg," the Imperial Carriage Museum, which features Empress Elisabeth's collection of carriages.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 60 minutes

Where Sisi Rests in Peace

Suggestion to explore on your own

When in Vienna, don't forget to visit the Imperial Crypt. Built for the Habsburg dynasty, which controlled Austria (and later Austria-Hungary) for centuries, nobles have been laid to rest in the crypt since 1633. 149 Habsburgs, including 12 emperors and 19 empresses and queens, have their final resting places there including Sisi, her husband Franz Joseph I, and their son. If you are interested, you can choose to take a guided tour in English every Wednesday starting at 3:30pm.

Where Sisi Rests in Peace

Day 10

Day 10 - Traveling to Budapest by Private Car

You'll be picked up from your Vienna accommodation today for a private transfer to beautiful Budapest. The journey takes about 3 hours, so you can depart whenever you choose. The driver will take you directly to your accommodation upon arriving in Budapest. If you'd like to take the opportunity to see another capital city on the way, then Bratislava is ideally located and for a very reasonable additional fee we can arrange for a stop and city tour there with a driver guide along the way. You would even get the chance to try some traditional Slovak food at lunchtime! The vehicle used for your transfer will be a standard sedan, station wagon or minivan. We can arrange for an upgrade to a more luxurious class of vehicle for an extra fee.

Budapest by Private Transfer

3 Nights in Budapest

3 Nights in Budapest

4 days in Budapest
4 days in Budapest

3 Nights in Budapest

The Paris of Central Europe, Budapest is the Queen of the Danube, a sprawling, regal city split in two halves by the mighty river. The city’s two UNESCO-listed halves, ancient Buda and modern Pest both have their charms and are linked by numerous picturesque bridges. From the Buda Castle to the Danube Embankment and the sprawling Andrassy Avenue, with its impressive architecture, there is plenty to keep you busy here, exploring and discovering this atmospheric city. It’s a little too big to explore only on foot, but the Pest side of the city is well laid out with broad avenues of the Parisian system, so it’s hard to get lost, and the public transportation, including the world's second oldest subway system, works well. Budapest has all the charm of Western Europe at a fraction of the price. Here you can taste excellent wines produced throughout the region, and even enjoy Michelin-star dining in various locations. We can offer you more than enough exciting activities in the city, from a visit to the incredible Parliament building to a boat cruise with dinner, or an exploration of Budapest’s communist past. The city also has a rich Jewish heritage, so you’ll find the perfect balance of history and modern culture here. Voted Best City in Europe in 2013 by Condé Nast Traveler readers and a regular in their top 3, Budapest really is a special city with activities to cater to every interest.

The Paris of Central Europe, Budapest is the Queen of the Danube, a sprawling, regal city split in two halves by the mighty river. The city’s two UNESCO-listed halves, ancient Buda and modern Pest both have their charms and are linked by numerous picturesque bridges. From the Buda Castle to the Danube Embankment and the sprawling Andrassy Avenue, with its impressive architecture, there is plenty to keep you busy here, exploring and discovering this atmospheric city. It’s a little too big to explore only on foot, but the Pest side of the city is well laid out with broad avenues of the Parisian system, so it’s hard to get lost, and the public transportation, including the world's second oldest subway system, works well. Budapest has all the charm of Western Europe at a fraction of the price. Here you can taste excellent wines produced throughout the region, and even enjoy Michelin-star dining in various locations. We can offer you more than enough exciting activities in the city, from a visit to the incredible Parliament building to a boat cruise with dinner, or an exploration of Budapest’s communist past. The city also has a rich Jewish heritage, so you’ll find the perfect balance of history and modern culture here. Voted Best City in Europe in 2013 by Condé Nast Traveler readers and a regular in their top 3, Budapest really is a special city with activities to cater to every interest.

Day 10

Day 10 - Arrival in Budapest

Upon your arrival the driver will take you to your centrally located accommodation.

Evening Sightseeing Group Cruise

I'm Checked-in, Now What?

Included in your vacation package price.

Budapest is known as the "City of Water" for a reason. For most of its history, the city was actually two separate cities, Buda and Pest, separated by the beautiful Danube River. If you would like to spend an unforgettable hour taking in its scenic views, we'll be happy to offer an evening sightseeing cruise. You'll see the Parliament Building, Buda Castle, Fisherman's Bastion, Palace of the Arts, and more, while sipping a drink and listening to an audioguide. We suggest showing up a bit early for the best seats.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 1 hour

Day 11

Day 11 - Your First Full Day in Budapest

Buda Private Tour

Walk on the Buda Side

Included in your vacation package price.

There's plenty to explore in the Buda Castle District, where you will find the beautiful Royal Palace (home to the Hungarian National Gallery), the presidential palace (where you can see the change of guards every day), the gorgeous Mathias Church (where Franz Joseph and Elisabeth were officially crowned King and Queen of Hungary), and the Fisherman's Bastion, with its famous UNESCO-listed panoramic views. Soak in the sights, and revel in their stories, with the help of a local guide.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 3 hours

Pest Private Walking Tour

Budapest for the First Time

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

Unlike some other cities, Budapest’s main sights are spread out across various districts. Therefore our suggestion is to take our three-hour walking tour with a professional guide, who will show you the most beautiful and popular sights of this amazing city, such as the St. Stephen's Basilica and Heroes Square. If you are not really into history, you can always ask the guide to tell you more about the present life of Budapest, but be prepared for unconventional stories.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 3 hours

Day 12

Day 12 - Your Second Full Day in Budapest

Sisi Group Tour

Sisi's Hungarian Residence

Included in your vacation package price.

Explore Gödöllő Palace, the Baroque former summer residence of Queen Elisabeth and Francis Joseph, just half an hour's drive from Budapest. This charming baroque palace has been restored to its original Hapsburg beauty. Wander the grounds with a guide, learned about the storied lives of Franz Josef (the last emperor of Austria-Hungary) and his wife, Empress Elisabeth (better known as "Sisi"). An English speaking tour guide will accompany you on this trip.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

The Impressive Museum Of Fine Arts

Suggestion to explore on your own

The Museum of Fine Arts on Heroes' Square (facing the Palace of Art) makes its contents clear start with its Renaissance Revival/Neoclassical facade. Within, you'll find works from big names like Da Vinci, Raffaello, Rembrandt, and Monet. The museum's spacious, grandiose halls are themselves works of art, with classical pillars and marble floors, and have attracted more than just fans of art. The museum has been the settings of films from Die Hard V to The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared.

The Impressive Museum Of Fine Arts

Day 13

Day 13 - Departure Day

A driver will meet you at your accommodation to take you to the airport for your departing flight.

What's Included

Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.

Geneva

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Geneva Airport Transfer
Geneva Old Town Private Walking Tour
Geneva Airport Transfer
Geneva - Munich Flight (Non-Refundable)

Munich

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Munich Airport Transfer
Munich Private Walking Tour
Neuschwanstein Castle Small Group Tour
Munich - Salzburg Train
Munich Train Station Transfer

Salzburg

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Salzburg Train Station Transfer
Salzburg Private Walking Tour
Concert in the Mirabell Palace
Salzburg - Vienna Private Transfer with Stop in Bad Ischl

Vienna

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Schonbrunn Palace Self-Guided Grand Tour
Vienna Private Walking Tour
Vienna - Budapest Private Transfer

Budapest

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Evening Sightseeing Group Cruise
Buda Private Tour
Sisi Group Tour
Budapest Airport Transfer

package excludes:


  • Flights to and from Europe.
  • Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
  • Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
  • Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
  • Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
Benefits of Traveling with JayWay

A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.

A Travel Advisor who speaks your language

We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.

A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation

Your trip is customized for you by  an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.

A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions

We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.

Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day

Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.

On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road

Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.

Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out

Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.
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