Central European Rhapsody: A Cultural and Historical Odyssey

10 Day Tour of Prague, Cesky Krumlov, Vienna and Budapest

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Trip Map
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A view of the Cesky Krumlov Castle and the Vltava River

10 Days 9 Nights

Best Time: Jan-Dec

History Buffs

Cultural Exploration

Step into a world where history and culture converge on a 10-day journey to Central Europe's most beautiful destinations, Prague, Cesky Krumlov, Vienna, and Budapest. Visit dramatic castles and sumptuous palaces, experience vibrant city life, and enjoy private guided tours in each city. Cross the stunning Charles Bridge in Prague, uncover the medieval charm of Cesky Krumlov, marvel at Vienna's imperial grandeur at Schönbrunn Palace, and unwind in Budapest's legendary thermal baths. With Go Real Travel, you'll benefit from detailed travel guidance provided by our mobile app, meaning your adventure will not only be authentic, but also seamless.

Take a guided walk in Prague, leading you through Old Town's narrow lanes to majestic Prague Castle.
Explore the medieval town of Cesky Krumlov & tour its stunning castle overlooking the Vltava River.
Tour the elegant Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna and shop for local pastries in the bustling Naschmarkt.
Visit the grand Hungarian Parliament in Budapest and enjoy an epic swim in Széchenyi Thermal Baths.
Savor evening cruises on the Vltava and Danube Rivers, beneath the city lights of Prague & Budapest.

Take a guided walk in Prague, leading you through Old Town's narrow lanes to majestic Prague Castle.
Explore the medieval town of Cesky Krumlov & tour its stunning castle overlooking the Vltava River.
Tour the elegant Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna and shop for local pastries in the bustling Naschmarkt.
Visit the grand Hungarian Parliament in Budapest and enjoy an epic swim in Széchenyi Thermal Baths.
Savor evening cruises on the Vltava and Danube Rivers, beneath the city lights of Prague & Budapest.

Prague Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Charles Bridge

Historic Landmarks

Krumlov Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Town Square

Architecture

Hofburg Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Schönbrunn Palace & Zoo

Parks & Gardens

National Museum

Museums & Galleries

Central Market

Street Markets

Castle Hill

Castles & Chateaux

Must see sights

Prague Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Charles Bridge

Historic Landmarks

Krumlov Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Town Square

Architecture

Hofburg Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Schönbrunn Palace & Zoo

Parks & Gardens

National Museum

Museums & Galleries

Central Market

Street Markets

Castle Hill

Castles & Chateaux

Starting from

$1799

per person

4.8 (365 reviews)

Not included

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Day-By-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Prague

Day 1

Arrive Prague

To Be Determined

Arrival in Prague Airport & Transfer by Taxi

Prague has one main airport, Václav Havel Airport Prague, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience.

Day 1

Arrive Prague

To Be Determined:

Airport Transfer

Mid-Day/Afternoon:

Jewish Quarter

Afternoon/Late Afternoon:

Old Town

Early Evening:

Evening Boat Cruise

Day 1

Arrive Prague

Day 1

Arrive Prague

To Be Determined

Arrival in Prague Airport & Transfer by Taxi

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Visit Prague's Jewish Quarter

Jews have lived in Prague since its beginnings in the 10th century and have endowed it with a rich heritage. The ghetto was created in the 12th century, as Jews were forced to live separately from Christians. Despite persecution, the community prospered, but sadly, only a small minority survived the Nazi occupation. A lasting legacy remains, including synagogues, architecture, and a fascinating cemetery.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

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.

Early 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 2

Prague

Day 2

Prague

Day 2

Prague

Day 2

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/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

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.

Early Evening/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 3

Prague to Cesky Krumlov

Day 3

Prague to Cesky Krumlov

Day 3

Prague to Cesky Krumlov

Day 3

Prague to Cesky Krumlov

Morning

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.

Afternoon/Late 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.

5:00 PM

Private Transfer to the Bus Station in Prague

A car service will pick you up from the N/A and deliver you to the Na Knížecí bus station, where you will catch your bus. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware the car service can fit up to 1 checked item of luggage and 1 personal item per person, such as a purse or small backpack. If you think you will have more baggage, please inform your travel consultant as this may result in an additional fee.

3 hours, 18:00 - 20:40

Bus to Cesky Krumlov

On this approximately 3 hour journey, you will enjoy the beautiful scenery of Bohemia on your way to Český Krumlov. The forest-covered hills, rambling fields, and many small lakes of the countryside make for a pleasant ride. Most of the bus lines servicing this connection offer modern and comfortable buses equipped with bathrooms and wi-fi. They usually also serve light refreshments during the ride.

8:40 PM

Cesky Krumlov - Bus Pickup by Taxi (or Walk to Hotel)

You will take a very short taxi ride to your hotel from the bus station. If you prefer you can also walk, most of our featured hotels are only a short distance from the bus station. Details on how to call a taxi and how much to pay are provided with your full itinerary. Walking directions are also included for those who prefer to go by foot.

Day 4

Cesky Krumlov

Day 4

Cesky Krumlov

Day 4

Cesky Krumlov

Day 4

Cesky Krumlov

9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Guided Walk in Český Krumlov

Thousands of tourists from around the world flock to Český Krumlov to wander its narrow cobblestone lanes, visit its beautiful castle, and admire its splendid Medieval and Renaissance architecture. But most of them leave without ever understanding the town’s rich historical background or discovering its hidden secrets. With this tour, you will avoid this sad fate and have a good time in the process.

Mid-Day

Explore Cesky Krumlov's Castle

Český Krumlov was ruled by the powerful Rožmberk family during the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods. As rivals to the Czech King, the Rožmberks wanted Český Krumlov to have a castle which could compete with Prague Castle in its magnificence, so they poured tremendous wealth and effort into building it. line-holder Note : The castle interiors are closed on Mondays, but you can still access the castle grounds.

Afternoon

Wander Český Krumlov's Old Town

Český Krumlov is the crown jewel of Southern Bohemia and its picture-perfect setting makes it a magnet for tourists and photographers from around the world. As the base of the powerful Rožmberk family from the 14th-16th centuries, it attracted great wealth, resulting in an abundance of medieval and Renaissance architecture delightfully huddled together between the twisting loops of the Vltava River.

Late Afternoon

Self Guided Hike to the Hill of the Cross

Český Krumlov is surrounded on all sides by verdant green hills which are covered in forests, fields, and pastures. The southern Bohemian countryside is the perfect place to wander – you can enjoy the beautiful nature while also discovering historic gems. The Baroque church of the Holy Cross sits on a hill above the town, providing an excellent opportunity for a photo of Český Krumlov nestled amidst the hills.

Day 5

Cesky Krumlov to Vienna

Day 5

Cesky Krumlov to Vienna

Day 5

Cesky Krumlov to Vienna

Day 5

Cesky Krumlov to Vienna

8:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Cesky Krumlov - Shuttle to Vienna

A shuttle service will pick you up directly from your hotel in Český Krumlov, N/A, and take you directly to your hotel in Vienna, N/A. You will climb over the low-lying yet impressive Šumava Mountains. After making your way through a beautiful rolling countryside of Lower Austria you will reach Vienna, where the next leg of your journey will begin! IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware the car service can fit up to 1 checked item of luggage and 1 personal item per person, such as a purse or small backpack. If you think you will have more baggage, please inform your travel consultant as this may result in an additional fee.

1:00 PM - 3:30 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.

Late Afternoon

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.

Early Evening

Hip Vienna; the Naschmarkt and Museum Quarter

The centuries-old market known as the Naschmarkt and its surroundings are a great destination for those who love shopping, art, cafes, and nightlife. With a population of students and young professionals this area is one of Vienna’s youngest, and not coincidentally, it’s most hip and bohemian. Even the nearby Museum Quarter is happening, as it's abuzz with activity even well after its outstanding museums have closed.

Day 6

Vienna

Day 6

Vienna

Day 6

Vienna

Day 6

Vienna

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

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.

Late Afternoon/Early 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 7

Vienna to Budapest

Day 7

Vienna to Budapest

Day 7

Vienna to Budapest

Day 7

Vienna to Budapest

9:40 AM

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains depart from Vienna Main Station (Wien Hbf) station. If traveling to the west though, there is a good possibility you will leave from the west station (Wien Westbahnhof). 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. 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.

10:42 - 13:19

Rail Journey from Vienna to Budapest

The scenic journey to Budapest takes a little less than 3 hours. Even though separated only by a political border, the look and feel of the natural setting changes between Austria and Hungary. It is interesting to consider that the border area used to be a closely guarded and heavily garrisoned no man’s land. During Communism, any Hungarian civilian entering this area risked being shot and killed. Today you will pass empty stations and checkpoints.

1:19 PM

Private Transfer from the Budapest Rail Station

Upon your arrival in Budapest, your driver will meet you on the platform. He will be carrying a sign with your name on it. The driver will drop you off at your hotel. This is a private transfer. The price of the pickup is already included in your itinerary cost so you will not have to pay the driver. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware the car service can fit up to 1 checked item of luggage and 1 personal item per person, such as a purse or small backpack. If you think you will have more baggage, please inform your travel consultant as this may result in an additional fee.

Late Afternoon

Exploring Central Pest

In Central Pest you will discover the beating heart of the city, with grand apartment houses and art nouveau architectural gems. No visit to Budapest is complete without seeing its highlights, including St. Stephen's Basilica, which dramatically rises above the city, and the Chain Bridge, which regally spans the Danube.

Early Evening/Evening

Evening Cruise on the Danube

The Danube River defines Budapest, as it divides the metropolis into two distinct city environments - Buda and Pest. It is spanned by a succession of stunning bridges which are best appreciated from the water. An evening river cruise is a relaxing way to soak in the beauty of the city, as you enjoy a drink or meal, and watch as the brightly-lit buildings cast reflections on the water.

Day 8

Budapest

Day 8

Budapest

Day 8

Budapest

Day 8

Budapest

9:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Best of Budapest: Half-Day Walking Tour of Highlights & Hidden Finds

During your tour you will take in a gorgeous vista of the city from the Fisherman's Bastion, explore the winding streets of the Castle District, gaze in awe at the striking interior of St. Stephen's Basilica, travel along the city's most elegant avenue and more. Along the way you will experience the city as a local does, stopping to check out intimate courtyards, enjoying a pastry and soaking in the ambiance of Budapest's most elegant cafes.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Budapest Castle and the Castle Hill

The historic Renaissance and Baroque architecture of Buda's hilltop Castle District make it feel like a quaint step back in time. Indeed, in the little squares and narrow lanes of the Castle District, you will find the heart of historic Hungary. Numerous points in the Castle District also provide breathtaking views over the Danube and the Pest side of the city.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Andrássy Avenue & the State Opera House

The wide, tree-lined Andrássy Avenue is Budapest's most prominent street, and is lined by imposing neo-Renaissance palaces and buildings. It is home to the breathtakingly beautiful State Opera House, making it the musical heart of Hungary. You will also find the superb House of Terror museum, which focuses on the horrors inflicted by 20th century totalitarian regimes.

Early Evening to Late Evening

Szechenyi Baths, Vajdahunyad Castle, Zoo, and Heroes' Square

The Széchenyi Baths are the largest and the most popular of all the city's baths. With eighteen indoor and outdoor pools and impressive neo-Baroque architecture, the baths make for an unforgettable visit. Nearby, you will find the fascinating Vajdahunyad Castle, a delightful zoo, and the monumental Heroes’ Square, which tells a 1,000-year old tale of Hungarian history.

Day 9

Budapest

Day 9

Budapest

Day 9

Budapest

Day 9

Budapest

Morning

Hungarian Parliament and its Surroundings

The Hungarian Parliament building is a magnificent sight as it rises above the waters of the Danube, and the interior is also quite jaw-dropping. As a visitor, you may even feel a bit overwhelmed by the sumptuous décor and attention-to-detail. You could be forgiven for expecting a queen to arrive or an aristocratic ball to break out at any moment.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Visiting the Jewish Quarter

Budapest was once the site of one of Europe's largest and most vibrant Jewish communities and contains the world's second largest synagogue – the Dohány Street Synagogue. A visit there is an impressive reminder of the wealth and influence the Jewish community in Hungary once possessed. A small but vibrant Jewish population still inhabits the Jewish Quarter today.

Late Afternoon

Váci street and the Central Market

The Central Market Hall is a mezzanine shopping arcade first opened in 1897. Today the Central Market teems with activity like small shops and stands offer a remarkable assortment of goods, including fruits and vegetables, meats and cheeses, fish, flowers, and Hungarian specialties. There are also many souvenirs available on the second floor of the market.

Early Evening/Evening

Concert, Ballet, Opera, or other Performance Art

Hungarian musicians, dancers, and actors are some of the world's best and are the product of a long-lasting national obsession with the arts. Much of the city's pride and wealth was devoted to building beautiful concert venues such as the State Opera House and Vigadó concert hall, where you can now enjoy an unforgettable musical experience.

Day 10

Depart Budapest

Day 10

Depart Budapest

Day 10

Depart Budapest

Day 10

Depart Budapest

To Be Determined

Transfer to Airport by Taxi

Budapest has one main airport, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, where almost all visitors depart. Your hotel can arrange a reliable taxi (there is no Uber in Budapest). You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about two hours and forty-five minutes before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with about two hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.

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Central European Rhapsody: A Cultural and Historical Odyssey

10 Day Tour of Prague, Cesky Krumlov, Vienna and Budapest

$1799

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

Arrival in Prague Airport & Transfer by Taxi

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.