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Central Europe's Imperial Capitals

10 Days / 9 Nights

Prague, Vienna, Budapest

from$2,575 per person

Travel and LeisureFodorsUSA TodayNew York TimesNational GeographicWashington PostVogue

This sample 10-day (9 nights) itinerary for a Prague, Vienna, and Budapest tour covers some of the most spectacular cities in Central Europe, with rich histories, vibrant cultures, and gorgeous architecture. On optional excursions led by local guides, you'll get a feel for the imperial atmosphere of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. With a Prague, Vienna, and Budapest vacation package from JayWay Travel, you'll sample the best these fascinating destinations have to offer.

If you have a little more time, we highly recommend an overnight stop in Cesky Krumlov between Prague and Vienna. Although it is overwhelmed with day-trippers for much of the year, it's a magical place after the crowds leave. By breaking the journey there you will get to experience this medieval gem at its best. 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 to 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 reach your local JayWay contact (who you will meet in person) throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3-5 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 Prague, Vienna, Budapest tour

3 Nights in Prague

3 Nights in Prague

4 days in Prague
4 days in Prague

3 Nights in Prague

“The Golden City,” “The City of 100 Spires,” “The Mother of Cities,” Prague has no shortage of nicknames paying homage to its charm and beauty. Prague’s winding cobblestone streets, gorgeous architecture and atmospheric bridges are fabled. Get up early and stroll across the statue-lined Charles Bridge. Soak it from the magnificent Old Town Square with its 600-year old astronomical clock. From exploring history and modern culture on foot, to traveling farther afield to take in the picturesque countryside and fairytale villages, you’ll have an itinerary full of adventure and relaxation. Besides the city’s history, evident on every street, especially in the beautifully preserved former Jewish Quarter, you can delve into the city’s gastronomy. You can literally dive into some of Europe’s best beers by visiting a beer spa, or explore its beloved breweries with walking tours, or enjoy a dinner cruise. Day-trip destinations include scenic castles, the perfect spa town, and Kutna Hora with its “bone church” and gothic cathedral. Prague is a city of history that comes to life for every visitor, no matter their interests.

“The Golden City,” “The City of 100 Spires,” “The Mother of Cities,” Prague has no shortage of nicknames paying homage to its charm and beauty. Prague’s winding cobblestone streets, gorgeous architecture and atmospheric bridges are fabled. Get up early and stroll across the statue-lined Charles Bridge. Soak it from the magnificent Old Town Square with its 600-year old astronomical clock. From exploring history and modern culture on foot, to traveling farther afield to take in the picturesque countryside and fairytale villages, you’ll have an itinerary full of adventure and relaxation. Besides the city’s history, evident on every street, especially in the beautifully preserved former Jewish Quarter, you can delve into the city’s gastronomy. You can literally dive into some of Europe’s best beers by visiting a beer spa, or explore its beloved breweries with walking tours, or enjoy a dinner cruise. Day-trip destinations include scenic castles, the perfect spa town, and Kutna Hora with its “bone church” and gothic cathedral. Prague is a city of history that comes to life for every visitor, no matter their interests.

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Prague

A driver will be at the airport to greet you and transfer you to your centrally located Prague accommodations.

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Prague

Prague Private Walking Tour

Prague Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

This three-hour walking tour of the Golden City is the ideal way to get to know the beautiful historic center of Prague. You will walk the Royal Route, originally used for the king's coronation procession. The walk takes you through the center of Old Town, where you'll see all of the most famous sights, and also learn about the fascinating history that has made Prague a unique destination throughout the ages. Crossing Charles Bridge, your guide will tell you all the stories of the past as you head up to Lesser Town, where the tour finishes.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 3 hours

For Art and History Lovers

Suggestion to explore on your own

Prague is so full of fascinating sights that it's easy to miss some of the best. For a little bit of peace and quiet, visit the Convent of Saint Anges of Bohemia, where you can find an exhibition on medieval art, and can find tranquility in the gardens, decorated by contemporary Czech sculptures. Our second tip is the Clementinum, a large complex of chapels and other buildings that collectively host the National Library. You can join one of the daily guided tours, or take in a concert in the Mirror Chapel. For more information visit the official website.

For Art and History Lovers

Day 3

Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Prague

Prague Castle Private Tour with Interiors

Prague Castle Private Tour with Interiors

Included in your vacation package price.

This tour of Prague Castle is the best way to quickly and easily take in the main star of the city's skyline. Your guide will pick you up at your accommodation and take you to the castle by tram. Once inside the castle grounds, you'll see the most impressive sites while your guide fills you in on the vibrant history of the area and its importance for the Czech nation. Highlights of the tour include the Basilica of St. George, the Golden Lane, Daliborka Tower, the Royal Gardens and the Old Royal Palace, to name just a few. In three hours you'll take in all the must-sees at the castle, as well as a few hidden gems.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 3 hours

Strahov Library and New World Private Tour

Experience the Life Monastic

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

One of the most breathtaking interiors in the city is to be found at the Strahov Monastery. The halls of the library here have featured in several Hollywood films. After feasting your eyes you'll have the chance to feast on some Czech classics and brewed on-site beer at the monastery brewery, then head to New World, a charming, quiet part of Prague Castle.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 3 hours

Day 4

Day 4 - Traveling to Vienna by Train

Today, you'll have a lovely train ride from Prague to Vienna. As there are a number of trains running throughout the day, you can depart either in the morning or the afternoon for the roughly 5-hour trip. We'll arrange standard class tickets based on the train time of your choice and have a driver transfer you from your accommodation to the Prague train station. We can also arrange first class tickets for an additional fee though in our experience there is little difference, other than proximity to the dining car if available, between the two types of carriage. If you'd like a bit more comfort and flexibility, a private transfer can be arranged for an additional fee. This will save a bit of travel time and offers door-to-door service. You would also have the option of stopping for lunch and to taste the local wines in Mikulov, in the heart of the Moravian wine region close to the border with Austria.

Vienna by Train

You can upgrade your transfer

Upgrade to Vienna by Private Transfer with a Stop in Wachau

Vienna by Private Transfer with a Stop in Wachau

Upgrade for an additional cost
We also offer the following excursions in Prague

Beer Spa Private Experience
Light1 hour
Beer and Czech Tapas Private Tour
Light4 hours
Bohemian Paradise Private Day Trip
Strenuous9 hours
Bohemian Vineyards and Wine Tasting Group Tour
Light7 hours

3 Nights in Vienna

3 Nights in Vienna

4 days in Vienna
4 days in Vienna

3 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 4

Day 4 - Arrival in Vienna

A driver will greet you at Vienna's Hauptbahnhof Train Station and take you to your accommodations.

Day 5

Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Vienna

Vienna Private Walking Tour

Vienna Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Map out Vienna's Old Town with an insider! The personalized route starts from your hotel and takes you to all the must see sights of the Austrian capital. You'll enjoy a pleasant walk through the Hofburg (Imperial Palace) and its gardens, along the famous Ring Street, then passing by and entering magnificent ecclesiastic edifices like the Stephansdom. The tour will be spiced with stories, fun facts, and recommendations for places to eat, drink, and explore further. By the end, you'll feel like a local.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 2 hours 30 minutes

Touch History and Culture in Vienna

Suggestion to explore on your own

If you want to get a taste of art and culture in Vienna, the Museumquartier should be your destination of choice. With more than a dozen museums ranging from the old and dusty to the young and avant-garde, this is the neighborhood that packs a lifetime of local culture into a few compact streets. It’s worth heading over to wander and window shop. You’re certain to find a museum or specific exhibition that suits you.

Touch History and Culture in Vienna

Day 6

Day 6 - Your Second Full Day in Vienna

Vienna's Luxurious Side

Suggestion to explore on your own

Vienna has a host of surprises for bon vivants and all those who prefer the finer things in life. And it wouldn’t be Vienna if the extravagance were not accompanied by a hint of the city’s typical charm: Shop at the flagship stores of international luxury brands, or at the official purveyors for the former imperial court. Dine in a Michelin-starred restaurant. Seek exclusive insights at museums or purchase art at palace auctions. Vienna offers many possibilities for those wishing to be pampered. Ask your local representative for recommendations and directions.

Vienna's Luxurious Side

Baroque Beauty: Visiting Schonbrunn Palace

Suggestion to explore on your own

Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture lover, or you’re just trying to get a full experience of Vienna, a visit to the Schonbrunn Palaceis a must. From the palatial gardens to the stunning Baroque architecture, this has long been one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vienna. Thus, if you would like to visit the interiors, we recommend to take care of tickets in advance (your destination manager will gladly assist you with this). You can easily get there with the subway then arrange for a group tour, or explore on your own. The castle also hosts numerous short-term exhibitions and classical music concerts throughout the year, so be sure to check its schedule.

Mozart and Strauss Concert in the Kursalon

Mozart and Strauss Concert in the Kursalon

Included in your vacation package price.

Are you a fan of Mozart and Strauss? Then your time in Vienna shouldn't end without a concert featuring the best pieces of the two evergreen composers. The Kursalon, built in the Italian Renaissance style in the late 19th century, is one of the Vienna's most famous venues, thanks in part to its connection to Strauss. The Kursalon's resident orchestra, the "Salonorchestra Alt Wien" (or "Old Vienna Salon Orchestra") is one of the best known interpreters of Viennese music, so we invite you to enjoy one of their regular performances.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes

Day 7

Day 7 - Traveling to Budapest by Train

You'll go from one imperial city to another today by train. Your next stop is bewitching Budapest. There are a number of trains daily between Vienna and Budapest so we'll book second class tickets with seat reservations based on your preferred departure time. First-class tickets are also possible for an additional fee. A driver will pick you up at your accommodations in Vienna and take you to the train station. If you'd prefer the comfort of door-to-door service as well as the opportunity to see another capital city along the way we can arrange for a private driver to take you instead. On the way, you can stop for a few hours in the capital of Slovakia, Bratislava.

Budapest by Train

You can upgrade your transfer

Upgrade to Budapest by Private Transfer with a Stop at the Korda Filmpark

Budapest by Private Transfer with a Stop at the Korda Filmpark

Upgrade for an additional cost
We also offer the following excursions in Vienna

Art Nouveau in Vienna Private Tour
Light2 hours 30 minutes
Authentic Tastes of Vienna Small Group Tour
Light5 hours
Countryside Winery Tour with Dinner Small Group Tour
Easy5 hours 30 minutes
Driving and Walking Private Combo Tour
Light5 hours

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 7

Day 7 - Arrival in Budapest

When you arrive at Budapest’s Keleti Train Station, there will be a driver there to meet you and bring you to your accommodation located in Budapest's city center.

Day 8

Day 8 - Your First Full Day in Budapest

Pest Private Walking Tour

Pest Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

When arriving at a new capital for the first time, it's best to have a knowledgeable local show you around. On this tour, an expert local guide will take you around the Pest side of Budapest, home to most of the city's landmarks and history, showing you not just the big-name sights, but introducing you into the everyday lives of the city's citizens.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 3 hours

Buda Private Tour

Walk on the Buda Side

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

If you've seen enough of the Pest side of the city, walk across the river and explore the Buda side of Hungary's capital. In hilly Buda, you'll find several amazing baths, such as the famous Gellert Baths or the more hidden and local Kiraly Baths. Visit the Matthias Church, where Franz Joseph I and Elisabeth were coronated and stop at the Royal Palace, the home of Hungarian National Gallery. Don't forget to take a ride on the Buda Castle Funicular!


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 3 hours

Day 9

Day 9 - Your Second Full Day in Budapest

Hungarian Parliament Group Tour

Hungarian Parliament Group Tour

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

The Parlament of Budapest is part of the Hundred Wonders of the world for a reason. It is safe to say that it is the most spectacular and grandiose building of Budapest, so visiting it during your stay could be a once in a lifetime experience. Tickets sell out fast, so don't hesitate to buy them.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 1 hour

Bathe with the Locals

Suggestion to explore on your own

Is there anything more quintessentially Budapest than a visit to one of the legendary baths? With more hot springs than any other capital, the city lets you take your pick of various styles, from the old school Turkish Rudas Baths to the Art Nouveau Gellert Baths on the Buda side of the city, or even the Neo-Baroque Szechenyi Baths with a large outdoor pool in Pest’s City Park. These are very much for locals, don't expect day-spa luxury! We've written a handy roundup of Budapest's best baths here.

Bathe with the Locals
Exclusive 4-Course A La Carte Menu Dinner Cruise

Exclusive 4-Course A La Carte Menu Dinner Cruise

Included in your vacation package price.

If you'd like to see Budapest from a different point of view, this Candlelight Dinner Cruise is the perfect option. You'll float peacefully along the river, enjoying a romantic dinner while seeing the castle, Parliament, and all of the city's most iconic buildings from the water. It's the perfect way to take your visit to Budapest to the next level.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 2 hours 30 minutes

Day 10

Day 10 - Departure Day

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

We also offer the following excursions in Budapest

Alternative Budapest Small Group Tour
Moderate3 hours
Budapest Christmas Markets Private Tour
Moderate3 hours
Budapest Market, Food, and Coffee Private Tour
Moderate3 hours 30 minutes
Budapest Private City Tour by Car
Light3 hours

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.

Prague

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Prague Airport Transfer
Prague Private Walking Tour
Prague Castle Private Tour with Interiors
Prague Train Station Transfer
Prague - Vienna Train Ticket

Vienna

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Vienna Hauptbahnhof Train Station Transfer
Vienna Private Walking Tour
Mozart and Strauss Concert in the Kursalon
Vienna Hauptbahnhof Train Station Transfer
Vienna - Budapest Train

Budapest

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Budapest Train Station Transfer
Pest Private Walking Tour
Exclusive 4-Course A La Carte Menu Dinner Cruise
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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Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Prague, Vienna & Budapest

Can I take a river cruise to Prague, Vienna and Budapest?

Although a river runs through the center of Prague, it is the Vltava and it does not connect anywhere with the the Danube, on which both Budapest and Vienna can be found. Therefore it is not possible to take a river cruise between these three cities. Some river cruise companies tack Prague onto the start or end of Danube river cruises, but you will be traveling by bus from Prague to the Danube.

When is the best time of year to visit Prague, Vienna and Budapest?

As this is primarily city-based itinerary, you could visit Prague, Vienna and Budapest any time of year. In winter (November to mid March) you'll find cold and mostly clear days, with occasional snowy or rainy day. From late November until Christmas and beyond, the Christmas markets in this part of Europe are a big draw. For visitors interested in taking in a classical concert or opera, any time except July and August is advised as the best orchestras and opera companies take their summer breaks at this time. Spring and fall have the most comfortable weather for sightseeing. For the lowest prices travel mid January to mid March, or in November although it will be quite cold.

What's the weather like in Prague, Vienna and Budapest?

All three cities have roughly similar climates: cold winters, comfortable spring, early summer and fall temperatures in the 60s and 70s F and relatively short hot summer periods in July and August. Budapest is usually a few degrees warmer than Prague or Budapest at any time of year.

Can I self-drive on this tour?

One way rentals in Europe are prohibitively expensive because of drop-off fees. Coupled with the complexities of buying multiple highway toll stickers, parking, and driving in unfamiliar cities, we advise against driving this route. Train connections between each city are regular and comfortable. For maximum convenience private transfers between cities offer door-to-door service as well as the opportunity to make a sightseeing stop along the way. Between Prague and Vienna you could stop in delightful Mikulov in South Moravia, a town known for its wines. Between Vienna and Budapest, the Slovak capital Bratislava is a popular stop for a walking tour and a chance to visit another country.

What are some popular extensions to this itinerary?

You could very easily add on many other Central European gems to this itinerary. Common additions that we arrange include Munich, Cesky Krumlov, Berlin, Salzburg and Krakow. Czech second city Brno, between Vienna and Prague, is gaining popularity among travelers seeking an authentic off beaten path stop.

Can we do this itinerary in reverse?

Absolutely! You could just as easily start in Budapest, then visit Vienna and Prague.




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