A Tour of Central Europe's Iconic Capital Cities: Budapest, Vienna, and Prague
10 Days
In this itinerary, visit Central Europe’s three most historically significant capital cities. Flea markets, hot springs, and a cruise down the iconic Danube await in Budapest, while Vienna offers imperial castles and an abundance of world-class museums. In fairytale Prague, fill the days exploring the maze-like cobbled lanes in search of Bohemian art galleries and the city’s famed microbreweries. Three nights in each city gives a taste of each unique culture, and train rides between destinations reveal quaint, sleepy villages, and rolling green pasturelands.
Highlights
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Private Budapest Secret Food Walking Tour
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Shared Afternoon Cruise on the Danube
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Private Vienna Walking Tour
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Tour of Salzburg
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Shared Prague by Night Dinner Cruise
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Day Trip to the Fairytale Town of Cesky Krumlov
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Prague Castle Uncovered Morning Walking Tour
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Unique Czech Beers and Tapas in Prague's Coolest Neighborhoods Walking Tour
Itinerary Details
International Arrival in Budapest
Private Transfer to Hotel
3 Nights
Budapest
Included activities
DAY 1: Arrive in Budapest
Meet the private transfer representative for an escort to the hotel. Enjoy some time to get settled before heading to the lobby to meet the guide for the Budapest Private City Tour. Afterward, enjoy a meal at a traditional Hungarian restaurant before heading back to the hotel or gamble the night away at the Monte Carlo Budapest.
BUDAPEST PRIVATE CITY TOUR
The tour begins at the Chain Bridge and passes the emblematic Parliament Building before crossing over the Margaret Bridge to the Buda side of the Danube. Stop in the Castle District, and take a short walk to see such attractions as Matthias Church and the Fishermen's Bastion. Next, ascend to the citadel atop Gellert Hill and marvel at the city spread out below. Back in Pest, wander the famous Central Market Hall and the largest Synagogue of Europe, followed by a drive to the City Park. After passing Europe's largest thermal spa, the Budapest Zoo and the Amusement Park, make a short stop at the Heroes' Square, built in 1896 to commemorate Hungary's thousand-year anniversary. The tour continues along Andrassy Avenue to downtown Pest, passing the Opera House and St. Stephen's Basilica on the way.
DAY 2:
Enjoy a light breakfast at the hotel before heading out for a culinary exploration of Budapest with a private secret food walking tour. Upon return, take the evening to relax, digest, and explore a local Hungarian bar.
PRIVATE BUDAPEST SECRET FOOD WALKING TOUR
Discover the rich culture and flavors of Budapest on a guided culinary walking tour. Explore the city's detailed architecture while sampling famous Hungarian dishes such as lángos, Gulyás soup, and Dobos torta. The tour includes eight food tastings, featuring mouth-watering strudel, Hungarian sausages, pickled vegetables, local cheeses, freshly baked bread, and a delicious secret dish, all accompanied by organic Hungarian wine. This immersive experience, lasting approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, offers a delectable introduction to Budapest’s culinary gems and vibrant food scene.
DAY 3:
Eat breakfast at the hotel before enjoying a morning to explore, relax, and soak up the atmosphere on the last full day in Budapest. Ease tension in a thermal bath, or nurse a cocktail in trendy Szimpla Kert, the city's first ruin bar. Then get ready to depart for an shared afternoon cruise on the Danube!
DUNA BELLA AFTERNOON CRUISE ON THE DANUBE (SHARED TOUR)
Embark on an exhilarating cruise aboard the Duna Bella and enjoy breathtaking panoramas of Budapest's iconic Buda and Pest. Glide along the Danube amidst stunning scenery, with an optional 45-minute exploration of Margaret Island. This 1-hour and 10-minute journey delves into the city's rich history and landmarks through a 30-language audio guide. Guests can indulge in a complimentary drink—champagne, wine, beer, or a refreshing soft drink—and sample the signature "Duna Bella" lemonade. With free onboard Wi-Fi, stay connected while immersing yourself in Budapest's beauty from a unique perspective.
Head to the Train Station
First-Class Ride from Budapest to Vienna
Head to Hotel
3 Nights
Vienna
Included activities
DAY 4: Arrive in Vienna
After breakfast at the hotel, head to the train station for a first-class ride to Vienna. Upon arrival, head to the hotel. Rest up in the afternoon before venturing out for a private walking tour of Vienna. Upon return, call it a night or take the opportunity to investigate Vienna's burgeoning bar scene.
PRIVATE VIENNA WALKING TOUR
Led by a certified professional guide, this private walking tour through old Vienna is a perfect introduction to the city and can be completely customized to suit interests. Stop by the Hofburg Imperial Palace, home of the Habsburgs from 1273 to 1918. See the Spanish Riding School, where horses perform routines to classical music, or visit the Jewish Quarter, whose inhabitants were almost completely wiped out during WWII. Other possible sites of interest include Maria at the Shore Church, the Old City Hall, St. Michael's Square, the University of Vienna, and the Burgtheatre.
DAY 5:
It's an exciting day, so eat a good breakfast before meeting in the hotel lobby for an all-day tour of Salzburg. Upon return, relax and enjoy a peaceful dinner and night on the town.
SALZBURG TOUR
En route to Mozart's birthplace, feast the eyes upon the mountains and lakes of beautiful Salzkammergut where the Emperor Franz Joseph and his family used to spend their holidays. Arrive in Salzburg, on the shores of Lake Fuschl and Lake Wolfgang, just in time for lunch (not included). During the afternoon, take a stroll through the old city, visiting important sites like the Cathedral, the Festival Hall, and St. Peter's Abbey Church and graveyard. Explore Mozart's birthplace in the Getreidegasse, then stop at the Mirabell Palace Gardens and take in the view of the Hohensalzburg Fortress. Head out for some exploration solo, but make sure to be back before the tour departs for Vienna.
DAY 6:
Take the morning to sleep in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, or explore Vienna before a culinary tour of Vienna's Naschmarkt! Enjoy a final dinner in Vienna and get ready for the next adventure in Prague!
Naschmarkt Vienna Tour
Dive into the culinary diversity of international cuisine on a 2-hour Naschmarkt Vienna Tour, exploring Vienna's most famous and tourist-visited market. Led by a local culinary expert, the tour offers an immersive experience into the market's aromas and flavors. Starting at Kettenbrückengasse, sample a variety of local and international foods, including olives from Greece, cheese from Switzerland, curry from India, pepper from Brazil, and salami from Italy. The guide shares intriguing facts about the Viennese kitchen, the history, and the cultural significance of the market. This sensory-rich journey allows guests to taste a variety of foods at different stalls while learning about the market's unique blend of scents, colors, and flavors.
Head to the Train Station
Train Ride from Vienna to Prague
Head to Hotel
3 Nights
Prague
Included activities
DAY 7: Arrive in Prague
After breakfast, head to the train station for the train to Prague. Upon arrival, head to the hotel—home for the final three nights of this central European adventure. Spend the afternoon getting acquainted with the new surroundings. Check-out the baroque statues lining the Charles Bridge, or listen to the jazz bands busking in Old Town Square. Be sure to keep track of time to be ready for a Prague by night dinner cruise!
PRAGUE BY NIGHT DINNER CRUISE (SHARED TOUR)
Be enchanted by the beauty of Prague as you cruise down the stunning Vltava River at sunset. After a delicious welcome drink, enjoy an exquisite buffet dinner accompanied by live music and the symphony of the city. While cruising, admire Prague’s most famous sights—the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, the Rudolfinum, Straka Academy, Dancing House, and Vyšehrad—as they light up during the deepening dusk. Experience the historical Smíchov Locks along the way. This romantic 3-hour dinner cruise is perfect for groups and couples, offering an unforgettable evening amidst Prague's illuminated landmarks.
DAY 8:
Today is an all-day tour of the village of Cesky Krumlov! After a day full of activity, enjoy an indulgent Czech meal upon return to the city.
DAY TRIP TO THE FAIRYTALE TOWN OF CESKY KRUMLOV (PRIVATE TOUR)
Explore a truly majestic site of the Czech Republic on this full-day adventure. Visitors can gaze upon the unique interiors of the Krumlov Castle while wandering through this historic landmark. Take in breathtaking views while ascending the Castle Tower and Museum. The tour also includes a visit to the captivating St. Vitus Church and a stroll through the cobblestone streets of Old Town on this unforgettable journey.
DAY 9:
On this last day in Central Europe, visitors will feel like royalty as they explore the many facets of Prague Castle in the morning, including its lush gardens, hidden entrances, and spectacular views. In the afternoon, journey to three off-the-beaten-path drinking establishments to discover the rich taste and history behind the city's best brews, paired with authentic Czech-style tapas. Take the evening to revisit a favorite restaurant or city destination before getting a good night's sleep for the departure home tomorrow.
PRAGUE CASTLE UNCOVERED MORNING WALKING TOUR (PRIVATE)
Visitors will feel like royalty as they explore the many facets of Prague Castle, including its lush gardens, hidden entrances, and spectacular views. St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, the 10th-century Basilica of St. George, and Golden Lane are just a few highlights of this palatial journey.
UNIQUE CZECH BEERS AND TAPAS IN PRAGUE'S COOLEST NEIGHBORHOODS WALKING TOUR (PRIVATE)
Visit three different drinking establishments off the beaten path on this journey in Prague as guests discover the rich taste and history behind the city's best brews! These beers will be paired with some authentic Czech-style tapas, and guests will receive a list of recommended venues to visit during your stay!
DAY 10:
Enjoy one final stroll through Prague's charming streets before meeting a transfer representative in the lobby of the hotel to head to the airport for a flight home. Whisper a quiet farewell to the enchanting sights, sounds, and smells of Central Europe. And don't worry—it'll be waiting right there for a return visit!
Transfer from Hotel to Airport
International Departure
Inclusions
Includes
- Accommodations: Budapest 3 nights, Vienna 3 nights, Prague 3 nights
- Breakfast daily except where noted otherwise
- Private arrival transfers
- Private Budapest Secret Food Walking Tour
- Shared Afternoon Cruise on the Danube
- Private Vienna Walking Tour
- Tour of Salzburg
- Shared Prague by Night Dinner Cruise
- Day Trip to the Fairytale Town of Cesky Krumlov
- Prague Castle Uncovered Morning Walking Tour
- Unique Czech Beers and Tapas in Prague's Coolest Neighborhoods Walking Tour
- Private departure transfers