Perfectly Planned Week in Prague, Vienna & Budapest

7 Day Tour of Prague, Budapest and Vienna

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Trip Map
Itinerary
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7 Days 6 Nights

Best Time: Jan-Dec

Cultural Exploration

History Buffs

Take a whirlwind journey through the heart of Europe, discovering a seamless blend of history and modernity in Prague, Vienna, and Budapest in just one week. You'll wander through cobbled streets and grand boulevards, each step taking you deeper into a story centuries in the making. With private guided tours in each city, you'll experience the pulse of these magnificent capitals like a local. Our detailed travel guidance ensures that every moment of your adventure is expertly planned, offering an unforgettable experience. From the charm of medieval bridges to the grandeur of palaces and other glorious buildings, prepare to be captivated.

Save time and experience a bit of adventure by taking an overnight train from Prague to Budapest
In Prague, feel the echo of history beneath the spires of famed churches such as St Vitus cathedral
Lose yourself in the maze of Prague's Old Town, finding charming shops & cafes around every corner
Delight in the grandeur of Budapest's Parliament Building, an architectural masterpiece
Cross the Danube on Budapest's famous Chain Bridge, a symbol of connection and resilience
Savor Vienna's renowned coffee house tradition, where each sip transports you to a bygone era

Save time and experience a bit of adventure by taking an overnight train from Prague to Budapest
In Prague, feel the echo of history beneath the spires of famed churches such as St Vitus cathedral
Lose yourself in the maze of Prague's Old Town, finding charming shops & cafes around every corner
Delight in the grandeur of Budapest's Parliament Building, an architectural masterpiece
Cross the Danube on Budapest's famous Chain Bridge, a symbol of connection and resilience
Savor Vienna's renowned coffee house tradition, where each sip transports you to a bygone era

Prague Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Charles Bridge

Historic Landmarks

Central Market

Street Markets

Castle Hill

Castles & Chateaux

Schönbrunn Palace & Zoo

Parks & Gardens

Spanish Riding School

Cultural

Must see sights

Prague Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Charles Bridge

Historic Landmarks

Central Market

Street Markets

Castle Hill

Castles & Chateaux

Schönbrunn Palace & Zoo

Parks & Gardens

Spanish Riding School

Cultural

Starting from

$1489

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

Private Transfer from the Prague Airport

We will schedule a pick up for 20 minutes after your flight's arrival time. You will be met in the terminal by an English speaking driver holding a sign with your name on it. The ride is for your party only - you will not be sharing a vehicle. The cost of the ride will be included in your itinerary package. 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.

Day 1

Arrive Prague

To Be Determined:

Prague Airport Pickup

Afternoon:

Old Town

Late Afternoon:

Jewish Quarter

Early Evening/Evening:

New Town

Day 1

Arrive Prague

Day 1

Arrive Prague

To Be Determined

Private Transfer from the Prague Airport

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.

Late 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.

Early Evening/Evening

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.

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.

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

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.

22:03 - 08:29

Overnight Rail Journey from Prague to Budapest

The direct overnight train to Budapest is a convenient way to save daylight for touring while also sparing a night's lodging cost. Overnight trains are not the best for light sleepers though. Budget-conscious travelers can choose compartments with 4 to 6 bunks, while those willing to spend a little more can get compartments with 1-3 single beds. The fare tickets for the journey, and the reservations for the bunks/beds, are two separate things. Be sure that you are buying tickets that cover both, otherwise you will have to hope that a sleeper is still available for purchase. If not, you will have an uncomfortable night on the train in a regular seat (if there's one available).

Day 3

Budapest

Day 3

Budapest

Day 3

Budapest

Day 3

Budapest

8:29 AM

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.

9:30 AM - 1:00 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.

Afternoon/Late 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.

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 4

Budapest

Day 4

Budapest

Day 4

Budapest

Day 4

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.

Afternoon

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.

Late Afternoon

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 5

Budapest to Vienna

Day 5

Budapest to Vienna

Day 5

Budapest to Vienna

Day 5

Budapest to Vienna

8:40 AM

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport

There are three mail rail stations where visitors depart Budapest. You'll likely depart from Budapest-Keleti (i.e. East Rail Station), although you may also depart from the Budapest-Nyugati (western) or Budapest-Déli (southern) stations. 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 - all three rail stations are co-located with metro stations. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi for you. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. The mobile app provides information on navigating around the station and finding your departure platform.

09:40 - 12:20

Rail Journey from Budapest to Vienna

The scenic journey to Vienna 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.

12:20 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.

2:30 PM - 5:00 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.

Early Evening/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 6

Vienna

Day 6

Vienna

Day 6

Vienna

Day 6

Vienna

Morning

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.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

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.

Early Evening/Evening

An Evening out in the Wine Village of Grinzing

Nothing better symbolizes the Viennese love of “gemütlichkeit” (roughly translated as coziness) than the wine villages and vineyards which hug the gentle slopes beneath the Vienna woods. They are home to wine taverns known as Heurigen. The most famous of the wine villages is Grinzing, which is easily reached from the city center by tram. Despite its closeness to the city center, a visit to Grinzing seems to transport you to the countryside, as quaint cottages and cozy old farmhouses create a charming village atmosphere.

Day 7

Depart Vienna

Day 7

Depart Vienna

Day 7

Depart Vienna

Day 7

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.

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Perfectly Planned Week in Prague, Vienna & Budapest

7 Day Tour of Prague, Budapest and Vienna

$1489

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

Private Transfer from the Prague Airport

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.