8 Days in Central Europe: Prague, Vienna and Budapest
Curated By
Shasta Reeves
SHARE
Prague
Budapest
Vienna
Food & Wine
Arts & Culture
Outdoors
History
Architecture
Local Food
Curator’s statement
This itinerary, combining Vienna, Prague and Budapest, is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a diverse and enriching experience in Central Europe. From Vienna's imperial palaces and classical music heritage to Budapest's stunning architecture and vibrant nightlife, this journey offers a perfect blend of history, culture and culinary delights. Whether it's exploring the grandeur of Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna or marveling at the architectural wonders along the Danube River in Budapest, this itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure through three of Europe's most captivating cities.
The Fora Difference
Book with Shasta to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Unlock perks by contacting Shasta to book your trip.
Day 1: Arrive & explore Prague Castle
Arrive and settle into your accommodations. I recommend Andaz Prague. Visit Prague Castle, one of the largest ancient castles in the world, and take in the incredible view.
For dinner, try Cafe Imperial.
Day 2: Golden city walk
You can either take a self-guided tour or sign up for a walking tour of The Golden City. Walk the Royal Route through the center of Old Town. Cross the Charles Bridge and finish at Lesser Town. Snag a Smažený sýr for lunch, a local street food in Prague that is a deep fried cheese and is served with fries, salad or a bread roll.
Tour Prague Castle
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.
Try Pinkasu for dinner.
Day 3: Bohemia day trip extravaganza
Explore Bohemia on a day trip. One of my favorite trips is to Karlovy Vary, one of Europe’s most famous spa towns. For a more medieval experience, we can also provide a day trip to Kutna Hora, a UNESCO-listed town. If you like wine, you could also enjoy a private wine tasting at the royal Melnik Chateau.
Day 4: Train to Vienna
Today, you'll have a lovely train ride from Prague to Vienna. As there are a lot of trains running throughout the day, you can depart either in the morning or the afternoon for the roughly 5-hour trip. Train cost is approx. $32 per passenger
Check into DO & CO Hotel Vienna.
For dinner, I suggest the Schönbrunn Palace Dinner and Concert package.
Day 5: Museumquartier, Vienna's art haven
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. I recommend Apron for dinner.
Day 6: Travel to Budapest
Travel to Budapest by train. Check into Corinthia Hotel Budapest. I suggest a panoramic night boat ride to view the city. Goulash, or as locals call it, Gulyás, is one of the must-taste dishes in Hungary. Be sure to try it at some point in your stay.
Day 7: Budapest entertainment
I suggest a private walking tour around Pest before visiting the Budapest Market, which is a foodie's dream. Nothing is more quintessentially Budapest than a visit to one of the baths. For dinner, try Onyx.
Day 8: Final Budapest exploring
If you can book a later flight, I highly recommend doing some final exploring around Budapest.
Need to Know
For more travel tips, check out this guide to Prague by Fora Advisor Cliniece Goodluck's guide, Top Things to Do in Prague, Czech Republic.
Travel Advisor
Shasta Reeves
Get in touch with Shasta
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Shasta within a business day or so. You'll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Europe.