11 Day Itinerary in Berlin, Prague & Vienna: Castles, Palaces, and Much More

11 Day Tour of Berlin, Prague and Vienna

Overview
Trip Map
Itinerary
Inclusions
Reviews

11 Days 10 Nights

Best Time: Jan-Dec

Castle & Palace Tours

History Buffs

Journey to a realm of majestic palaces and medieval castles on this 11-day trip to Berlin, Prague, and Vienna. Your adventure begins in Berlin, where history comes alive amidst iconic landmarks. In Prague, walk the charming Charles Bridge, Vienna awaits with its grand opera houses and Baroque palaces. Venture beyond the cities on excursions to nearby castles and palaces. Each city's unique story is enhanced by private guided tours, and the trip made smooth by detailed travel guidance. You experience a rich blend of urban exploration and countryside discovery.

See Berlin's rich history at the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag, symbols of German reunification
Cross Charles Bridge in Prague, a Gothic & Baroque architectural marvel leading to the Prague Castle
Marvel at the imperial splendor of Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace, a testament to Austria's past glories
Embark on a day trip from Prague to the storied Karlštejn Castle
Visit captivating riverside castles on a Danube cruise through the scenic Wachau Valley

See Berlin's rich history at the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag, symbols of German reunification
Cross Charles Bridge in Prague, a Gothic & Baroque architectural marvel leading to the Prague Castle
Marvel at the imperial splendor of Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace, a testament to Austria's past glories
Embark on a day trip from Prague to the storied Karlštejn Castle
Visit captivating riverside castles on a Danube cruise through the scenic Wachau Valley

The Brandenburg Gate

Historic Landmarks

The Berlin Wall

Historic Landmarks

Prague Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Charles Bridge

Historic Landmarks

Hofburg Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Schönbrunn Palace & Zoo

Parks & Gardens

Must see sights

The Brandenburg Gate

Historic Landmarks

The Berlin Wall

Historic Landmarks

Prague Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Charles Bridge

Historic Landmarks

Hofburg Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Schönbrunn Palace & Zoo

Parks & Gardens

Starting from

$2045

per person

4.8 (365 reviews)

Not included

Secure Your Customizable Trip
Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Start

Travelers

Preferred Hotel Stars

Craft Your Own Itinerary
Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.

Trip Map & Itinerary

Enable/Disable Map Scrolling

Click to See Map

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Berlin

Day 1

Arrive Berlin

To Be Determined

Airport Transfer by Taxi or Train

Flying into Berlin you will arrive in the brand new Berlin Brandenburg Airport to the south of the city. Taxis are available at the airport, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience. The cheapest and fastest way to reach central Berlin is by train. The Airport Express train delivers you to Berlin's main station (Hauptbahnhof) in the center of the city, from where you can easily hail a taxi.

Day 1

Arrive Berlin

To Be Determined:

Airport Transfer

Mid-Day/Afternoon:

TV Tower & Old Berlin

Late Afternoon/Early Evening:

Courtyards of Berlin

Day 1

Arrive Berlin

Day 1

Arrive Berlin

To Be Determined

Airport Transfer by Taxi or Train

Mid-Day/Afternoon

The TV Tower and Berlin's East German & Medieval Legacies

The Television Tower and its surroundings in Alexanderplatz are Berlin's main architectural monument to the former East Germany. Despite the high-rent stores and offices that now fill the buildings, you can still detect quite a bit of that old communist character. Somewhat ironically, you'll find the medieval Nikolaiviertel, the oldest residential area of Berlin, just a few steps away. You'll also find nearby the Marienkirche (Berlin's oldest parish church), the displaced Neptune Fountain, the Red Town Hall, statues of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, and the massive Loxx model railway that even non-model train enthusiasts will gasp at.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Exploring Hidden Courtyards & Jewish History

With booming 19th-century population growth, nearly every unoccupied space in Berlin was filled by tenement buildings surrounding small courtyards. The Spandauer Vorstadt neighborhood possesses some of Berlin’s most beautiful courtyards, the Hackesche Höfe, as well as other courtyards which better recall the crowded conditions of industrial Berlin. Here you can discover the partially reconstructed New Synagogue, the former site of the Jewish cemetery, and many hidden reminders of a once vibrant community.

Day 2

Berlin

Day 2

Berlin

Day 2

Berlin

Day 2

Berlin

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Highlights of Berlin Guided Walking Tour

On this 3 hour tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Berlin and help you understand what makes this city so unique. Sites visited will include the boulevard Unter den Linden, the Gendarmenmarkt, Check Point Charlie, remnants of the Berlin Wall, Potsdamer Platz, the Holocaust Memorial, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Reichstag.

Afternoon

Explore the Museum Island

This island in the River Spree is home to five world-renowned museums, which could easily fill up a whole trip just by themselves. The island is covered in trees and green lawns, while the classically-inspired architecture of the museums can be enjoyed without even stepping inside. Unfortunately, the biggest star of the island, the Pergamon Museum, with its wholly reconstructed ancient buildings, is closed until 2026 for renovations. However, you can still visit a massive 360-panorama depicting the ancient city of Pergamon, and there's still more museums to visit than you could possibly fit in. Also to be found on and around Museum Island are the majestic Berliner Dom cathedral and the huge Berlin Palace.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Berlin's Most Iconic Sights

Many of Berlin’s most iconic symbols are found within a short walk of each other. Most famous of all is the Brandenburg Gate. First built as a symbol of peace, it became a symbol of division during the Cold War. A few steps away stands the Reichstag, which was destroyed in the climax of World War II but which has been beautifully rebuilt with a glass dome. Meanwhile, the modernistic Sony Center also symbolizes a revitalized and rebuilt Berlin. Also close by is the sobering Holocaust Memorial, with its more than 2700 concrete slabs creating an ominous impression of loss. Just beyond it is another reminder of Germany's darkest period - the site of Hitler's bunker during the seige of Berlin.

Day 3

Berlin

Day 3

Berlin

Day 3

Berlin

Day 3

Berlin

Morning to Late Afternoon

Excursion to Potsdam

For most visitors, Potsdam means Sanssouci, Frederick the Great's palace and his majestically landscaped park of architectural treasures that once competed with Berlin as the grand Prussian capital. But there is much more to Potsdam than just Sanssouci. From taking a cruise through pristine lakes, exploring the charming city center, or wandering the numerous tranquil parks studded with fantastical palaces, visitors will be hard pressed to fit a visit to Potsdam into just one day. In fact many choose to rent a bike to fit more in, as well they should, as Potsdam is the perfect place to discover on a bicycle.

Day 4

Berlin to Prague

Day 4

Berlin to Prague

Day 4

Berlin to Prague

Day 4

Berlin to Prague

Morning

Wander the Tiergarten and Climb the Victory Column

Once the hunting ground of the Prussian kings, the Tiergarten is Berlin’s most famous and expansive park. It is a wonderful escape from urban stress located in the very center of the city. You will discover beautiful forests, fields, and ponds, all easily reached through an extensive and well maintained network of trails. Some of Berlin's favorite beer gardens are also located in the park.

12:10 PM

Taxi Transfer or Public Transport to Main Rail Station

Most trains depart from Berlin Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. It is well connected by public transport, including U-bahn, S-bahn, and bus, making it relatively easy and often fastest to reach by public transport. However, if traveling with bags, you may prefer the convenience of taking a taxi, Uber, or private transfer. Berlin taxis are generally reliable and honest. If you are staying in central Berlin and are picked up one hour prior to departure, you should have time to catch your train.

13:16 - 17:36

Rail Journey to Prague

Your scenic journey should take about 5 hours. The first couple hours bring you to the state capital of Saxony, Dresden. You will then enter an area known as Saxon Switzerland, which is filled with fascinating rock formations. You'll even pass beneath the imposing Fortress Königstein, which towers above the narrow river valley. After crossing the border into the Czech Republic, the beautiful scenery continues as you enter what is now known as Bohemian Switzerland. You'll then follow the Elbe and Vltava rivers through the pretty Bohemian countryside until reaching Prague.

5:36 PM

Arrival & Transfer by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains arrive in Prague Main Station (Praha hl.n.) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that the easiest way to reach your hotel may be by public transport. Taxis are available but are known for taking advantage of tourists. However if you prefer the convenience of not carrying your bags on public transport, they are an option. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags. Uber and Bolt Taxis are also available for those with the app.

Early Evening/Evening

Vltava River Cruise

Embark on a captivating evening river cruise in Prague on the Vltava River, where the city's historic landmarks come alive under the soft glow of twilight. Glide past Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town while enjoying a glass of bubbly or a gourmet dining experience with fine wines. This enchanting journey offers a unique perspective of Prague's beauty, creating memories against the backdrop of the city's sparkling lights.

Day 5

Prague

Day 5

Prague

Day 5

Prague

Day 5

Prague

9:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Prague Castle & Royal Route Guided Walk

On this charming guided walk, you will explore the Prague Castle, the largest castle complex in all of Europe. To reach the castle you will trace the Royal Coronation Route and cross the Charles Bridge, whose “speaking stones” reveal the amazing and often cruel history that occurred there. Your tour guide will then take you either through the castle courtyards and into the dramatic St. Vitus Cathedral in the center of the castle complex, or through the upper part of the castle district around the oversized palaces of the old Catholic nobility and the top of the Castle Steps for incomparable views over the red rooftops of the Little Quarter.

Mid-Day to Late Afternoon

Prague Castle and the Castle District

Prague Castle is the most visited destination in Prague, and for good reason. The castle's history stretches back over a 1000 years, and it has served as the seat of government for Bohemian kings, Holy Roman Emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic. The castle sits impressively perched on a hill overlooking the city, providing a breathtaking and romantic view.

Late Afternoon to Evening

Exploring the Little Quarter

The Little Quarter is a quaint yet lively quarter of Prague tightly nestled on the slope and riverbank beneath the Prague Castle. It is filled with the homes of medieval and renaissance nobility who wanted to live as closely as possible to the castle. Picturesque side streets, beautiful churches, and impressive Baroque architecture all abound within the Little Quarter.

Day 6

Prague

Day 6

Prague

Day 6

Prague

Day 6

Prague

Morning to Afternoon

Excursion to Karlštejn Castle

Karlštejn, i.e. Charles' Stone Castle, is the most famous castle in the Czech Republic. The fairy-tale perfect castle was founded by King Charles IV in 1348 to guard his royal treasures. It's massive towers and walls are spread out over a series of rocky peaks above the Berounka River and commands striking views of the surrounding hills.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Wanderings in the Old Town

A visit to the Old Town transports you to an entirely different era. A labyrinth of twisting cobblestone lanes and alleys surrounds Old Town Square, which has been Prague's municipal center since the Middle Ages. The square is lined by magnificent churches and imposing Renaissance palaces. As you wander through the Old Town, you discover numerous other delights, including several beautiful churches, a plentiful supply of cozy cafes and pubs, and an outdoor market dating back to the Middle Ages.

Evening

Venture out to Žižkov

The "Žižkov Republic" that lies just east of the main train station and north of Vinohrady has always enjoyed an identity separate from Prague's Old Town. Once known as Red Žižkov – because it was so working class and such a Communist party stronghold – today it retains something of its old working class ambiance, although it also is partially on its way to gentrification. As a result, it is flourishing and full of students, artists, and musicians enjoying its relatively cheap rents in comparison to nearby Vinohrady.

Day 7

Prague to Vienna

Day 7

Prague to Vienna

Day 7

Prague to Vienna

Day 7

Prague to Vienna

Morning/Mid-Day

Vyšehrad Fortress; a Favorite of the Locals

The castle of Vyšehrad was the seat of Bohemia's kings from the 11th to the 12th centuries. Due to its strategic position on a hill overlooking the Vltava River and Prague, it became an important army garrison in the 17th century, and it was transformed into a fortress with huge walls, gates, and ramparts. Walking along these ramparts will offer you wonderful views of the city and river. The interior of the fortress is now given over to a pleasant and quiet park which is a favorite of locals.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Discover the New Town

Despite being 700 years old, the New Town (Nové Město) is the youngest of the original five independent towns that made up Medieval Prague. The heart of New Town is one of the three original markets around which the town was planned, Wenceslas Square. Not fully given over to tourism like the Old Town, the New Town combines a historic atmosphere with the daily commercial and social life of locals, making it a great place to get a taste of the real Prague.

Late Afternoon

Stroll through Petřín Park

Petřin Park is Prague's most prominent park, as it is located on the side of a large hill overlooking the city. The park is filled with cherry orchards, beautiful forests, and lawns, and is crisscrossed by numerous paths as well as the medieval Hunger Wall built by Emperor Charles IV. At the top of the park is an Eiffel Tower-like observation tower which provides an unobstructed view of the city.

5:45 PM

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains depart from Prague Main Station (Praha hl.n.) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that the cheapest and sometimes fastest way to reach your hotel may be by public transport. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app. Information on finding your departure platform is provided in the itinerary mobile app.

18:45 - 22:49

Rail Journey to Vienna

Your scenic journey to Vienna should take about 4 hours. After departing Prague, you will first pass through the rolling countryside of central Bohemia. You will then enter an enchanting region of deep forests and river valleys, followed by the wine-growing region of southern Moravia, and then approach the border to Austria. The passage over the border is interesting when you consider that it used to be a closely guarded and heavily garrisoned no man’s land during Communism. The countryside is relatively flat by Austrian standards but quite pleasant, with a mix of fields, forests, and small lakes. As you enter Vienna, you will pass over a series of islands, forest, and canals as you cross the Danube River.

10:49 PM

Arrival and Transfer by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains arrive in Vienna's Main Station (Wien Hbf) station, but if coming from the west, you may be able to get off at the west station, Wien Westbahnhof, which may also be closer to your hotel. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. Taxis are available at all rail stations and are generally honest. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

Day 8

Vienna

Day 8

Vienna

Day 8

Vienna

Day 8

Vienna

1:45 PM - 4:15 PM

Guided Walk through Vienna's Inner City

This tour takes you back in history to explore the Vienna that stood within the old city walls. You will learn about the humble beginnings of Vienna before it became the capital of a great empire and one of the most important cities in Europe. You will discover how Vienna's early inhabitants lived and how they left their mark on the city and its beautiful Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.

Morning/Mid-Day

Experience the Imperial Vienna

Discover the very heart of the Habsburg Empire that once covered most of central Europe. Within the vast Hofburg Palace complex, which was once home to Austria’s emperors and their administrators, you will find palaces, museums, a famed riding hall, the Austrian national library, and much more. The State Opera House and other major monuments are also nearby. Majestically stunning, the buildings and squares of Imperial Vienna still evoke awe in the observer even if the Empire they were built for is now long gone.

Late Afternoon to Evening

Exploring Vienna's Inner City

When the Viennese say they are going “into the city”, they are talking about the Inner City (Innere Stadt). The Inner City corresponds to Vienna’s original medieval city, which was once surrounded by defensive walls that stood where the Ringstrasse (Ring Street) now runs. A warren of medieval alleyways crowded into the protected space between the walls, creating a dense network of pedestrian streets that remains to this day.

Day 9

Vienna

Day 9

Vienna

Day 9

Vienna

Day 9

Vienna

Early Morning to Early Evening

Danube Cruise in the Scenic Wachau Valley

A one-and-a-half-hour train ride from Vienna brings you to the town of Melk, where you can tour the vast Melk Abbey. From there you can begin a 22-mile cruise through the Wachau Valley, considered the most beautiful stretch of the entire Danube River. You'll pass medieval castle ruins, hills covered in vineyards, and several charming villages, where you can debark to try some wine or take a hike up to a castle. The valley is also a perfect destination for cyclers and winery tours.

Day 10

Vienna

Day 10

Vienna

Day 10

Vienna

Day 10

Vienna

Early Morning/Morning

Tour the Schönbrunn Palace

The magnificent Baroque palace of Schönbrunn is most famously associated with Empress Maria Theresa, who lived here surrounded by 16 little archdukes and duchesses who also happened to be her children. On your tour of the palace, you will see how Maria Theresa and other past imperial residents lived. No visit is complete without a stroll in the vast gardens surrounding the palace.

Afternoon to Early Evening

Along Vienna's Ringstraße (Ring Street)

The Ringstrasse, or the Ring Street, surrounds Vienna's old town where the city walls once stood until the 19th century. The Austro-Hungarian Empire was at the height of its prosperity at the time the walls were torn down, and so it lined the wide Ringstrasse with monumental buildings such as the neo-Gothic town hall and neo-Classical parliament buildling. A fun experience is to take a tram ride around the entire length of the Ringstrasse, soaking in the full richness of the spectacle.

Early Evening/Evening

Dine with locals in the Spittelberg Quarter

One of the most enjoyable places for an evening out in Vienna is the Spittelberg quarter. Its narrow lanes are filled with pleasant traditional restaurants. The Spittelberg Quarter’s history stretches back to the 1600’s when the Austrian rulers imported artisans and servants from Hungary, Croatia, and other subject lands to help serve the Emperor’s court.

Day 11

Depart Vienna

Day 11

Depart Vienna

Day 11

Depart Vienna

Day 11

Depart Vienna

To Be Determined

Transfer to the Vienna Airport by Public Taxi

Vienna taxis are generally reliable and honest, so taking a taxi is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. Your hotel will be happy to arrange a pick up for you. If you are picked up three hours prior to departure, you should have plenty of time to catch your flight. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen minutes or so.

Click to See Details

11 Day Itinerary in Berlin, Prague & Vienna: Castles, Palaces, and Much More

11 Day Tour of Berlin, Prague and Vienna

$2045

Secure Your Customizable Trip Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Craft Your Own Itinerary Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.

Trip Map & Itinerary

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Airport Transfer by Taxi or Train

Secure Your Customizable Trip
Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Craft Your Own Itinerary
Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.