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Prague to Budapest Tours & Trips

Find adventures that start in Prague and then finish in Budapest. Trips from Prague to Budapest are most popular in September, with the most tours doing this route then.

47 Prague to Budapest tour packages with 147 reviews

Prague, Vienna & Budapest Tour

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Christmas & New Year

Prague, Vienna & Budapest

"Everything is excellent. I will also recommend your company to my friends and relatives." Tessie, traveled in June 2019

Prague & Budapest Tour

Prague & Budapest

"Very good overall experience. Very happy with experience." Terry, traveled in September 2023

Once in a Lifetime Tour

Once in a Lifetime

"I had an amazing time traveling with Europamundo. Loved every experience I had and I'm definitely traveling with you again!!" Beatriz, traveled in November 2021

Prague Vienna and Budapest (10 Days) Tour

Prague Vienna and Budapest (10 Days)

"Prague, Vienna and Budapest are very beautiful cities and it was great to get into the museum in Vienna before it was open to the public." Christine, traveled in August 2017
  • €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Highlights of Central Europe Tour

Highlights of Central Europe

Best of Eastern Europe- Prague, Vienna and Budapest Tour

Best of Eastern Europe- Prague, Vienna and Budapest

"Wiseyatra adjusted my itinerary in each city to accommodate our needs. We enjoyed our trip thoroughly." Vani, traveled in March 2023

Private Tour: 3 Countries in One Week: Prague - Vienna - Budapest Tour

  • Sightseeing

Private Tour: 3 Countries in One Week: Prague - Vienna - Budapest

"From the seamless logistics to the personalized attention, every aspect of this journey surpassed expectations." Henrik, traveled in March 2023

1 Week of Gourmet and history: Prague, Vienna and Budapest Tour

  • Food & Culinary

1 Week of Gourmet and history: Prague, Vienna and Budapest

"Every moment was expertly curated, making it an experience of a lifetime. The itinerary seamlessly blended iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and culinary treasures." John, traveled in April 2023

4 Countries of Eastern Europe in 9 Days - Prague, Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest Tour

4 Countries of Eastern Europe in 9 Days - Prague, Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest

"Excellent tour and amazing customer service from WiseYatra. Great memories!" Maria, traveled in May 2024

Gems of the Danube with Prague 2024 - 11 Days Tour

  • River Cruise

Gems of the Danube with Prague 2024 - 11 Days

"The floor in the bathroom felt spongy when I walked on it which might indicate that water is seeping into the underlying flooring material." EJ, traveled in September 2019

What people love about Prague to Budapest Tours

Great experience. Ad a solo traveler, everything from the hotels to the site services, traveling by train was beyond expectation.
Very good overall experience. Some glitches in pick up timing but they were all resolved. Very happy with experience.
Too much walking. Your tour guides were knowledgeable. Sometimes I couldn’t understand them but overall they were good
  • Family from Prague to Budapest (33)
  • Explorer from Prague to Budapest (22)
  • Discovery from Prague to Budapest (18)
  • River Cruise from Prague to Budapest (17)
  • In-depth Cultural from Prague to Budapest (12)
  • Private from Prague to Budapest (9)
  • Self-Guided from Prague to Budapest (5)

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Wanderlust & Life

Planning the perfect Prague, Vienna, Budapest itinerary for a 7 & 10 day break

If you are planning on spending a week in Europe, then we highly recommend visiting the Imperial capitals of Prague, Vienna, & Budapest. Each city is steeped in history, with grandiose architecture, mouth watering food, and a whole lot of culture. On top of that each of the capitals bring something a little different to the table so you get a real taste of Europe in a limited time.

Here we have put together the perfect Prague, Vienna, Budapest itinerary to help you plan your own European adventure. This guide includes all the information you need on getting between each city, and what to do when you get there.

Disclaimer : This post contains affiliate links, so if you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.

prague budapest trip

Why plan a Prague, Vienna, Budapest itinerary?

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You might be wondering why you should plan a Prague, Vienna, Budapest itinerary when there are so many amazing places in Europe. Whilst that is true, Prague, Vienna, and Budapest are becoming European hotspots for travellers. One of the things that I’m drawn to with these cities is that their identities have been shaped by both Eastern European and Western European influences.

They are also quite a bit cheaper than their Western counterparts like Paris or Rome, which lets be honest in this economic climate is never a bad thing.

If you are tossing up between Prague or Budapest here is a helpful guide.

Or if you are trying to decide between Vienna or Budapest here is a helpful guide.

In our Prague, Vienna, Budapest guide we give you 2 example itineraries for a 7 day and 10 day trip. Obviously the longer you have in each city, the better. Each of them offer so much to see and do. If you only have 7 days we recommend 2 days in each city with a 7th day for travelling. And if you have a little bit longer 3 days in each plus a day of travel gives you a good chance to see the sights and get a taste of each city.

Of course we recommend spending much longer in Europe, especially because it is so big and each country is so unique. For more ideas, here are some sample 3 week Central Europe itineraries to give you some ideas.

So when planning a Prague Vienna Budapest itinerary, you might be wondering where on earth to start. The logical thing to do is either start in Prague, or Budapest. That way you can travel south from Prague or north from Budapest. Vienna is wedged between the other two destinations so it’s not an ideal place to start unless you want to go back on yourself.

Flying into Prague

If you decide the fly into Prague to start your Prague, Vienna, Budapest itinerary here, then you are in luck. It’s a very busy airport and a lot of European carriers including low budget carriers like Ryanair and Easyjet fly here.

Once you arrive at the airport we recommend getting a taxi because it is the easiest way to get to your hotel/ centre of Prague. It will take about 30-45 minutes in total and set you back around €30/736 CZK.

There are cheaper options but these do involve a bit of faffing around. For instance there is a bus however this will only take you to one of the city metro lines, where you will need to make your way into the centre from there.

There is also bus 119, which is every 15 minutes. If you are trying to get to the Old Town you can get this to Nádraží Veleslavín metrostation, and then its a further 6 stops on the metro to old town.

For the new town get bus 100. This stops at Zličín metro station on line B. From here you are looking at about 11 stops to the centre.

Despite the buses being a little bit of effort they only costs 1.20€ or 32 CZK, so this is a good option for those trying to do Prague on a budget.

Flying into Budapest

If you have decided to go down the Budapest, Vienna, Prague route, then chances are your trip will start at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport. This is the city’s main airport. From here you can either get a bus or taxi.

A taxi is the most direct and honestly the easiest way to get from the airport to your hotel. It will cost around €30 each way, but saves you traipsing around with all that luggage.

Alternatively you can get the bus – the 100E which will get you into town in around 30-40minutes.

Here is our Prague, Vienna, Budapest itinerary breakdown including the best things to see and do in each of the cities. For the purpose of this itinerary we are starting in Prague.

Prague is by far one of our favourite destinations. It’s literally like walking into a fairytale with castles and cobbled streets. It is the perfect city to start your Prague, Vienna, & Budapest itinerary, but be warned you may never want to leave.

You can read more about our trip to Prague here if you want. Otherwise read on for our Prague highlights.

And if you are wondering if Prague is worth visiting this article might help.

In the meantime here is some information on Prague.

Country:  Czech Republic

Languages Spoken:  Czech but English is widely spoken

Currency:  Czech Koruna (CZK)

Famous for:  Old world architecture, it’s many spires, culture, and excellent beer

Visit if you like:  City breaks with history, and really beautiful places

Nickname : The City of a Hundred Spires

prague budapest trip

When visiting Prague you probably want somewhere between 2 days at a minimum to around 4 days to really get to grips with the city.

It is one of those cities that is best enjoyed at a slower pace, wandering the cobbled streets stopping every now and then for a drink. The good news is, a lot of the man tourist attractions are pretty close together, so you won’t spend ages travelling between sights.

Obviously if you are trying to see Prague, Vienna, and Budapest you probably won’t have a long time to spend in each spot. So book any must do tours well in advance to make the most of your time.

Where to stay in Prague

You will find accommodation to fit any budget in Prague. If you only have a short time in the city though you want to be close to the key tourist attractions, particularly the Charles Bridge and Old Town. We opted for a mid-range hotel located right near the Charles Bridge called  Lokal Inn . It was only a minutes walk from the bridge, and was close to lots of bars and restaurants.

Here is a breakdown on the best areas to stay in Prague to help you plan your own trip.

The Old Town or Staré Město as it is known in Czech would probably be our recommendation especially for a short trip. It’s beautiful, and there are lots of food and drink options. It’s also close to a lot of the main attractions.

The downside is that it can be touristy, and you can fall into the trap of food and drink that isn’t very good and super expensive. Just do your research beforehand is what we would say.

Accommodation is also a bit pricier here, so book well in advance for the best deals.

Lesser Town, is our second recommendation for areas to stay in Prague. It’s just across the river from the Old Town, and it just that little bit quieter too. It’s a quaint area to explore, and is close to places like the Lennon Wall, and the Charles Bridge. There are a lot of restaurants and bars in the area, and it is close to public transport too.

The New Town, is great if you are wanting to go clubbing, and have some crazy nights out in Prague. It’s right next to the Old Town, so it is still pretty central. It’s also less touristy than the Old Town. If you want a more authentic Czech experience where you are mingling with the locals, this is a great area to stay.

The Castle District has some of the best views over Prague, and is obviously close to one of the main tourist attractions, the Prague Castle. It’s a little bit further out though from the Old Town, but still easily accessible. We probably wouldn’t recommend staying in the area when you only have a short time in Prague, just because it’s away from a lot of the hustle and bustle of the city.

Things to do in Prague

Here are some of our highlights and top things to do when visiting Prague.

Probably one of the more instagrammable spots in Prague , the John Lennon Wall is a must on any visit to the city. Etched with graffiti that changes on a regular basis the wall is a symbol of political frustration but also freedom of speech. Make sure you get here early to avoid the crowds.

The first thing we noticed in Prague was the spectacular castle perched above the city, almost watching over it. The castle grounds contain gardens, palaces, and shops as well as the very dramatic looking St Vitus Cathedral. The views over Prague from the castle are also pretty incredible!

You can purchase your tickets online in advance , or purchase them on the day on the castle grounds.

If you do one thing on your trip to Prague, make sure you visit the Charles Bridge at sunrise. It’s so much quieter and you get some really amazing photo opportunities. The bridge connects Mala Strana (Little Quarter) and Stare Mesto (The Old Town) so it is a very beautiful way to get from one side of the river to the other.

prague budapest trip

Petrin Hill provides a bit of a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of Old Town. Make sure you get the funicular up the hill, but remember to arrive early to beat the crowds. Once you are at the top of the hill you can stroll around the beautiful gardens and woodland, or if you are brave enough head up to the top of the TV Tower.

Whilst it is a sombre place to visit the Jewish Museum is one of the most visited museums in Prague. Here you learn about the history of the Jews in the city, and you get to explore the Old Jewish Cemetery too.

One of the more unusual things to do in Prague has to be visiting the Beer Spa. I mean why bathe in water when you can bathe in Beer? You also get to sip on beer (don’t worry not the stuff you bathe in because that would be gross), and there is an option to have a massage as well. You can book your tickets online in advance here.

I always love seeing a city from the water, so the Vltava River cruise was a must on our visit to Prague. There are a number of different river cruises you can do and we’ve included some in the links below.

A visit to Old Town is a must in Prague. The Old Town Square is probably one of the most photogenic parts of the city. The Xmas markets are held here in December and at other times it is a hive of activity with street performers and vendors selling Chimney Cakes and other treats. If you have time it is worth visiting the Old Town Hall Tower for some really wonderful views.

prague budapest trip

The Dancing House is one of the more modern sights in Prague. It’s apparently one of the most photographed modern buildings in the city, due to its quirky design. Basically it was designed to resemble a pair of dancers – hence the name.

It’s located in New Town, which is somewhere we didn’t spend a lot of time. There tends to be a high number of stag and hen dos in the area, so be warned.

St Nicholas’ Church located in Mala Strana is a Baroque masterpiece that you really have to visit. The inside is adorned with impressive artwork and intricate carvings, so we recommend you make the time to visit.

It was built between 1704-1755 it is now a hugely popular tourist attraction in Prague. It is also considered one of the greatest examples of Prague Baroque architecture.

A HUGE part of any Prague, Vienna, Budapest itinerary, has to food. Prague is no exception! The food is out of this world. You might find some of the cuisine in the 3 cities to be a bit similar, but each city has their own take on it.

Trdelník or Chimney Cake, is a popular sweet treat in Prague. Its roots are actually Hungarian, but you won’t be able to escape Prague without chowing down on this pastry.

Goulash is also a popular dish in Prague. Again you will find this in Hungary as well but the texture is different. In Prague it is far more stew like and served with some delicious dumplings.

If you have the time we recommend a food tour like this one , that way you get a locals view on the best things to eat and drink in the city. Or if you want to try food and drink, then this tour covers both .

Whilst I am on the topic of drink, I think it is fair to stay that Prague is well known for its beer. Make sure you visit one of the traditional beer halls, U Zlatého tygra is one of our favourites, although it does get busy so get there early.

There are a number of beer tours you can do, especially if you really do like your pints, and our suggestions are below.

Prague is a very easy city to navigate and truth be told we spent most of our time just walking around it. That being said there were times when we had to take public transport, and you might too.

Public transport consists of buses, trams, and the metro. You will need to purchase your ticket before boarding ay form of transport. You can purchase tickets at newspaper kiosks or hotels.

Upon boarding validate your ticket. For example on the tram you can get a stamp near the door to validate it. Ticket types vary and you can get a single ticket (which includes a 30 minute transfer window) or a day pass.

And if you want to know what it’s like visiting Prague in autumn this article might be handy.

So now we head to our second destination on our Prague, Vienna, Budapest itinerary. Vienna is full of lavish architecture, museums, classical music, and of course coffee and cake.

You can read more about Vienna here .

Or if you are tossing up between Vienna and Prague here is a helpful guide.

In the meantime here are some facts.

Country:  Austria

Languages Spoken:  German (a lot of people speak English though)

Currency:  Euro

Famous for:  Food (wiener schnitzel), culture, music, and history

Visit if you like:  Classical music, architecture, palaces, history and food

prague budapest trip

Between Prague, Vienna, and Budapest our personal opinion is that you can probably get away with allocating the smallest amount of time in Vienna. Of course this advice is dependant on what you want to see, but we found that we would have like more time in Prague and Budapest, and would have been happy to compromise for less time in Vienna.

That isn’t to say Vienna isn’t worth visiting. It absolutely is. And you might want more time here especially if you are planning on visiting the museums (and there are lots of them) or even the vineyards.

All in all we would say you need somewhere between 2-3 days in Vienna. This will give you time to see some of the main sights, eat some great food, and of course sip a few drinks along the way.

Where to stay in Vienna

If you are in Vienna for a short time, like we were then you will want to stay somewhere central and close to the tourist attractions. Innere Stadt and MuseumsQuartier and probably the best areas to stay in for a first time visit. You are close to the attractions and there are a number of hotels to choose from for all budgets.

We ended up staying a bit further out when we visited which in hindsight wasn’t the brightest idea on such a short trip.

Here is a quick breakdown on the best neighbourhoods to stay in Vienna.

This is in the very centre of historic Vienna, and it is close to a lot of the main attractions like St Stephen’s and the Spanish Riding School.

Accommodation can be a bit more expensive here, but transport links are excellent. This is ideal for first time visitors or those with a small amount of time in the city.

Slightly cheaper and a little less touristy is District 2. You are still pretty close to a lot of the main attractions, and it’s very close to the Prater Amusement Park. This is good if you are looking for slightly cheaper accommodation but still want to be in the thick of it.

This is perfect if you are a fan of culture and museums. There are a lot of bars and restaurants in the area, and this is probably a good choice if you do enjoy visiting bars in the evening as there is more here.

Things to do in Vienna

Here are some of our highlights when visiting Vienna.

Schonbrunn Palace is one of the top attractions in Vienna, giving you a flavour of imperial living in the city. Built in the 1630’s this former summer residence for royalty is now popular with tourists. You get the opportunity to tour the inside as well as exploring the palace gardens. You can book tickets online in advance to avoid the queues on the day.

It’s not a trip to Vienna unless you have visited at least one palace. Hofburg Palace is another great attraction. It was a winter residence for the rulers during the time of the Austro-Hungarian empire.

You do do some cool tours here including the museum or even the imperial apartments.

A visit to a coffee house in Vienna is a must due to their part in shaping Viennese culture. Treat yourself to some coffee and cake (Sachertorte is the most traditional) and read the paper like the locals do. If you want to learn more about the coffee culture in Vienna, or experience it with a local here is a great tour you can book.

Open from March – October every year. the Prater amusement park is home to one of the oldest ferris wheels in the world. The Riesenrad, is 212 ft tall and has these wooden gondolas that you stand in as the wheel goes around. This is a highlight in Vienna for sure.

Like you would assume with the name, the MuseumsQuartier is home to a number of art museums, as well as an architecture and design museum.

A quirky thing to see in Vienna is this colourful housing complex. It is a really unusual building built after an idea and concept by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, hence the name. If you are looking for an offbeat experience it is certainly worth a visit.  And of course it is a great place to get a few Instagram shots.

prague budapest trip

Hailed as one of the most important religious buildings in Vienna. This gothic style cathedral is a Roman Catholic church with intricate detail. It is well worth a look and make sure you go inside if you can. We recommend this tour that gives you a glimpse of parts of the cathedral where the masses cannot enter.

Vienna is renowned for its musical history so heading to an opera is high on the bucket list.

For a bit of history definitely consider visiting the Rathaus or Town Hall. It was constructed in the 1800s in a Neo-Gothic style to create more space for the city mayor. It’s a really beautiful building to visit, and gives off those opulent European vibes. If you want to go inside you can but only on certain days, and you have to book a specific tour.

We had no idea there were vineyards in Vienna and this was a pleasant surprise. It is a bit of a journey out of town and you will need to take a bus to Kahlenburg. But it really is worth doing and a real quirky thing to do in Vienna.

prague budapest trip

Another really quirky thing to do is to visit Vienna’s waste incineration plant. Artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, who also designed the apartment complex at the top of this list was tasked with designing the new plant.

You can do a tour of the plant which seems to be popular with school children who can learn all about the heating and cooling process. Even if that’s not your thing it will probably be the most beautiful waste incineration plant you will ever see.

Vienna feels a little bit like the posher sister of Prague and Budapest sometimes, and the food and drink in the city also make it feel like this. But there are a number of culinary experiences for everyone whether you are looking for something fancy or more laid back.

When it comes to food, Schnitzel is a must in Vienna. And if you aren’t sure where to eat it then you can do this cruise and Schnitzel tour where you can enjoy the dish whilst gazing out at views of the city.

For something a bit more relaxed we recommend Naschmarkt. There is a food tour you can do that is highly recommended or you can just explore yourself.

Finally when it comes to drinks in Vienna, craft beer is a big deal, and you will find so many cute little bars serving beers in the most extraordinary glasses. Here is a tour you can do if you are a craft beer fan.

If you aren’t a beer lover though, never fear because wine is also something that Vienna prides itself on. You can visit the vineyards as mentioned above or just enjoy an underground wine tour .

And if you are wondering is Vienna worth visiting here is a guide to help you.

Getting around Vienna is very easy. You can purchase travel cards for instance a 2 day card will cost around €15 per person. They are valid for travel on trains and trams.

Make sure you always have your pass on you as you will need to present this for inspection when asked.

The final leg of our Prague, Vienna, Budapest itinerary is of course the Hungarian Capital. It’s probably a little rougher around the edges than say Prague or Vienna, but filled with so much culture, history, and beauty it is another city you won’t want to leave.

For more things to see and do in Budapest check out this post .

prague budapest trip

In the meantime here are some facts about Budapest.

Country:  Hungary

Languages Spoken:  Hungarian – although English is also widely spoken

Currency:  Hungarian forint (HUF) – you can sometimes use Euro’s but we wouldn’t recommend it (more on that later)

Famous for:  thermal baths, incredible architecture, ruin bars

Visit if you like:  museums, quirky bars, cool buildings, fun and lively city breaks

Wondering if Budapest is worth visiting ? Here is a handy guide.

Out of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, we actually Budapest is the place where you will want to spend the longest amount of time. There is just so much to see and do here and things are a little more spread out than say Prague. Ideally you want to spend a minimum of 3 days in Budapest to around 5 days. This will give you time to see the main attractions, visit the ruin bars, and explore some of the neighbourhoods.

Where to stay in Budapest

We stayed on the Pest side at the  K+K Hotel Opera . The hotel was fabulous and the location was ideal. It is located on a quiet street so you are away from the hustle and bustle but within walking distance to bars and restaurants. Our room was spacious and comfortable, and it was a perfect place to rest our heads after long days exploring the city.

Here is a bot more of a breakdown on the specific areas.

District 1 includes the Buda Castle area. It is located on the west bank of the Danube, and is home to attractions like Fisherman’s Bastion, The Royal Palace, and Matthais Church.

It’s a more relaxed part of Budapest to stay, and there are a lot of luxury hotels in the area.

Across the Danube from the Buda Castle area is District V, which includes attractions like the Parliament Building and St Stephens Basilica. It’s very central and close to food, drink, and most importantly public transport.

We recommend this area for first time visitors and those only doing a short stay.

There are a ton of mid-range hotel options here, as well as a number of backpackers hostels.

This is probably your more cultural part of Budapest with points of interest such as the  Hungarian State Opera House, the Liszt Ferenc Music Academy, and the Operetta Theatre.

It’s great for culture lovers and those that want to go shopping. There are a few mid- range hotels as well as some more upmarket places. It’s very central and close to transport.

This is the heart of the Jewish Community in Budapest especially as it is home to the Dohany street great synagogue. Separately the area is a hipster’s dream filled with super cool cafes, street food, and of course the ruin bars. If you are planning to party during your in Budapest this is probably the area for you.

Things to do in Budapest

Here are some of our favourite things to do in Budapest to help you plan your own itinerary.

St Stephen’s is a must when visiting Budapest. The interior is stunning but its the views from the top which made it for us. You get book tickets online in advance or just purchase them on the day.

One of the notable buildings that stands out as you admire the skyline in Budapest has to the the Hungarian Parliament Building. You can do a tour of the inside when the National Assembly is not in session. We decided against a tour just because of time restrictions but if you do want to do this make sure you book it in advance.

prague budapest trip

Budapest’s ruin bars are a nightlife bucket list item. You will find them in derelict buildings, filled with groups of people enjoying their nights. Szimpla Kert is the biggest and most popular and I don’t think anything we read really prepared us for actually seeing it for ourself.

This is one of the most moving memorials we have come across. The Shoes on the Danube represent the thousands of Jews that were killed during World War II by the Arrow Cross militia. They were marched down to the Danube and ordered to take off their shoes before being shot by the edge of the river. Their bodies then fell into the river and were carried away. What makes it even more gut wrenching is that many of the shoes were children’s.

The House of Terror is a museum that centres around the fascist and communist regimes in Hungary in the 20th Century. It is an important place to visit, but be prepared it is also very emotional at times. The queues can get really long here, so we recommend booking a guided tour in advance . You can purchase cheaper tickets on the day that don’t include a guide.

This is the biggest and most popular of all the thermal baths in Budapest. Besides enjoying the baths you can also book massage treatments and use the saunas and the gym. You probably need a good day here to enjoy the spa and the treatments on offer. You can book in advance here.

The Széchenyi Chain Bridge is another must visit place in Budapest and chances are you will cross it at some point during your stay. It is one of the most prominent landmarks as it connects the Buda and Pest sides of the city. It’s also quite spectacular around sunset.

The Labyrinth is a series of tunnels under Buda Castle. These caves once held the infamous Vlad the Impaler, otherwise known as Count Dracula as a prisoner for 14 years.

Sailing along the Danube, particularly at night is a great experience. The city lights reflect magically off the river creating a wonderful atmosphere. Day or night though, it’s a great way to get a different perspective on Budapest.

You essentially get the chance to explore the underground caverns of Buda Castle which were turned into a working hospital in the late 1930’s in preparation for WWII. You can only enter the caves as part of a guided tour, but this gives you the chance to learn so much about the conditions that hospital staff had to work under.

You can book a ticket online in advance here .

The Fisherman’s Bastion is a stunning terrace located across the river from the Parliament Building. I think this was one of our favourite places in Budapest because of the sheer beauty of it. The terrace was actually built for the 1000th birthday of the Hungarian State, although it certainly looks much older. Nearby is the equally dramatic Matthias Church.

Located in the Budapest Castle the National Gallery houses collections of all types of Hungarian art. Even the building itself is spectacular and the views from the outside are breathtaking.

The funicular has been in service since 1870, so not only is it historical, but you also get some incredible views over Budapest. We highly recommend getting the funicular up to the National Gallery.

prague budapest trip

Budapest is a great place to sample some cheap food and drink. There are several food tours you can do (see below) or you can just make your way around the city yourself.

One of our favourite places to eat is the For Sale pub. They serve traditional Hungarian food and its popular with locals and tourists. You do need to book in advance to get a table, but it really is worth it.

Budapest is home to a number of those incredible old world style cafes and the New York Cafe is the best of the lot. Make sure you book this one in advance as it does get busy. And why wouldn’t it when you can order cappuccinos with gold leaf.

Another must eat food in Budapest is of course Chimney Cake which we mentioned in our Prague section of this post. Chimney cake is actually Hungarian, and if you want to learn about the history and how to make it you can do that here .

Another recommendation for things to do in Budapest is to do a wine tour . Hungarian wine is actually really nice, considering we hadn’t tried it before our trip. This tour is a great way to learn about where the wines are made, and what to pair them with.

Getting around Budapest is actually pretty easy, and a lot of attractions are close to each other, although chances are you will need to rely on public transport to get around.

You will need to purchase a ticket to use either the trams, buses, or the metro. There is usually a self service ticket machine at the metro station, or tram and bus stops. And they have an English option in case you were wondering.

Select your ticket type, which can be a single journey, or a 24 hour pass. You will need to validate your ticket at a metro station, or on a bus or tram

Here is a suggested Prague, Vienna, Budapest itinerary for 7 days. This is probably the minimum amount of time you will need to explore all 3 cities.

Day 1 Prague

Arrive in Prague and visit the John Lennon Wall in the morning and then spend the day exploring the Old Town. If the weather is nice do a boat tour in the afternoon. In the evening check out some of the bars in the area – Hemmingways is a favourite for cocktails whilst the Beer Museum is a must for, well beer.

Day 2 Prague

Get up for sunrise and head to the Charles Bridge (you can always go back to sleep after – trust us it is worth it). Head to one of the traditional cafes for brunch and then spend your second day exploring the Castle area.

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Day 3 Travel to Vienna

Most of day 3 will be spent travelling to Vienna. Try and get an early train to arrive in Vienna around lunch time. Explore the MuseumsQuartier and see if you can listen to some opera in the evening.

Day 4 Vienna

For something a little different head to Hundertwasserhaus in the morning, before heading back into the centre and paying a visit to St Stephens Cathedral. In the afternoon head to Prater Amusement Park and make sure you ride the Ferris Wheel!

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Day 5 Travel to Budapest

Head to Schonbrunn Palace in the morning and explore, make sure you save some time for some coffee and cake before you leave Vienna.

Grab an afternoon train to Budapest so that you are ready for a full 2 days of exploring the city.

Day 6 Budapest

Grab some breakfast in one of the city’s many grand cafes, then head to the Shoes on the Danube for a moment of reflection before crossing the bridge to the funicular. Ride the funicular to the National Gallery to enjoy some art. In the afternoon head to Fisherman’s Bastion. For dinner we recommend the For Sale Pub for dinner. Spend the evening exploring some of the ruin bars before calling it a night.

Day 7 Budapest

In the morning head to St Stephen’s Basilica and admire the views from the top. Then make your way to the Hungarian Parliament building for a tour.

Head to the House of Terror in the afternoon to learn about the history of the communist regime in Hungary. In the evening, we recommend heading to the ruin bars again, to keep exploring (and drinking).

prague budapest trip

For our Prague, Vienna, Budapest 10 day itinerary we recommend following the above 7 day guide, but adding an extra day in each city. Here are our suggestions for what to do for an additional day in Prague, Vienna, & Budapest.

Additional day in Prague

Use your additional day in Prague to explore Petrin Hill and the Jewish Museum.

Additional Day in Vienna

Use this additional day to head to the Vineyards to taste some Austrian wine.

Additional Day in Budapest

For an additional day in Budapest make some time to visit the thermal baths. we also recommend the Hospital in the Rock tour if you have the time.

The best way to travel between Prague, Vienna, & Budapest is by train. Trains are incredibly frequent and often the fastest way to travel between cities. The train from Prague to Vienna takes about 4 hours depending on whether you take an express train or not. Trains are frequent, and reasonably priced, particularly if you book well in advance.

The train journey from Vienna to Budapest is about 2.5 hours, and again if you book in advance the prices are pretty cheap. You can use booking sites like trainline.com or omio.com to book your tickets.

You might be wondering when the best time to plan your Prague, Vienna, Budapest itinerary is. Honest answer – it depends on what you want to get out of your trip.

The summer months in Prague, Vienna, and Budapest are great if you want to see the cities come alive, with alfresco dining, and sip beers on the street. But summer months, particularly August tend to be the busiest for tourists. If you do visit during these months book your accommodation well in advance. Additionally if you want to eat at particular places you will need to book these in advance as well.

The best time to visit Prague, Vienna, and Budapest for us would be in either spring or autumn. Autumn is great because you get to see the leaves change colour in the cities, whilst comfort eating in the evenings to keep warm.

December is another popular time to visit the three cities, especially because they each put on a magical Christmas market. Just keep in mind that daylight hours will be much less than in summer months, and the weather will be cold.

Budgeting for your Prague, Vienna, Budapest itinerary is a tough one because it will obviously depend on what you want to see and do when you get there. But here are some tips for when you visit.

Prague has a reputation for being one of the cheaper European countries, although we will say it isn’t as cheap as it once used to be. That being said, it is still better value than say Copenhagen or Oslo .

On average we budgeted around £100 or 2967 CZK per person per day and we generally didn’t spend this much. I should also add that our budget does not include accommodation. Accommodation isn’t too bad though for mid range hotels expect to pay about €60 – €120 per night.

Throughout Prague and the Czech Republic, you will need to use Czech Koruna. Banknotes are made up of the following denominations 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000 CZK, and coins consist of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 CZK. A lot of places in Prague will accept payment by bankcard, but you do get the occasional small shop that only accepts cash. Therefore we recommend you bring even just a little bit of cash with you during your 4 days in Prague.

Vienna is probably the most expensive of the 3 cities, but that being said it isn’t too bad.

On average you are looking at paying around €10 – €15 for a main meal in a restaurant. A pint of beer will probably set you back around €4 or €5 depending on where you are drinking.

All in all not including accommodation you should budget around €120 per day per person in Vienna. This will cover things like public transport, tourist attractions, food, and nightlife. On average a mid range hotel room will set you back around €120 a night. But this depends on location, and hotel quality.

Vienna is part of the EU and therefore the currency is Euro. One Euro is equivalent to 100 Cents. Euros are made up of a mixture of coins and notes. The coins tend to be Cents so you get 1,2,5,10,20 and 50 Cent coins, as well as a 1 and 2 Euro coin. Notes are made up of 5,10,20,50,100,200, and 500 Euros. With the notes we don’t recommend carrying around the higher denominations as some places won’t take anything over a 50 for security purposes. And honestly, I don’t think we have ever seen a 200 or 500 Euro note! So if you do find one let us know.

You can pay on card for most things in Vienna, but we do recommend carrying some cash on you. And coins are very useful especially if you need to use a public bathroom!

Budapest is another one of those places that has the reputation of being cheap, which is it, but maybe not as cheap as we had expected. Between us we probably budgeted around €180 between us per day (not including accommodation).

This did include us going out doing tours, having breakfast, lunch and dinner out, as well as enjoying a few drinks. So you can do it way cheaper if you want.

We found that accommodation was actually on the cheaper side, with good quality 4 star hotels costing under 100 Euros a night. 

The official currency in Budapest is the Hungarian Forint. You might see it abbreviated to HUF or Ft.  

Some places, especially the more touristy spots may accept Euros, but we highly recommend you pay in the local currency. This is because change will be given to you in Forint even if you pay in Euros, and the conversation into Euro’s isn’t always great so chances are you will probably end up paying more. Also not all places in Budapest accept card, so this is another reason to make sure that you have some Forint on you.

The currency is one of those that has a ton of zero’s in it so just keep an eye on what notes you are getting when you are given change etc. Notes consist of 500 Ft all the way to 20,000 Ft. Although with the larger denominations you may struggle to pay for things in some shops, so if you are carrying cash try and have some smaller notes as well as the larger ones.

There are also coins such as the 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Everything is in Forint. So for example in the US there are dollars and cents, or pounds and pence in the UK, but in Hungary everything falls under Forint

  • Each country has different currency so make sure you stock up on Euros for Vienna, Koruna for Prague & Forint for Budapest
  • English is widely spoken in all three countries, but be sure to brush up on some basics in each language
  • Book your train tickets between cities in advance for the cheapest prices.
  • Book any accommodation in advance for the best deals.
  • If there are particular restaurants you want to visit book these in advance as well.

If you are wondering how best to break up your time when visiting Prague, Vienna, and Budapest then here is a bit of a FAQ section to help you decide. We have listed some of the common questions we get asked for each destination to help you decide which one is better for your trip.

Prague, Vienna, and Budapest each have a lot to offer if you are visiting as a family. Prague has a number of parks to visit, as does Vienna. Each city also has a number of museums to visit as a family too.

One cool thing about Vienna though is that it has the Prater Amusement Park, which is a fun way to spend the day as a family.

Again each city has so much to offer for couples, but if we had to choose we would go with either Vienna or Prague. They are both such romantic cities, with incredible architecture, and gorgeous cobbled streets. Vienna is great for opera, and romantic balls, whilst Prague just oozes romance even walking across the softly lit Charles Bridge.

You will have so many date night ideas in both places. There are incredible food options, trendy bars, and so much more.

All three countries offer a lot for solo travellers. For starters they are all relatively safe cities, with so much to see and do. There are so many tours you can book onto when visiting Prague, Vienna, and Budapest so even if you are travelling alone this gives you the chance to meet new people.

When looking at Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, we would say that Prague and Budapest are the best for budget travellers.

Prague and Budapest tend to be two of the cheaper capital cities in Europe, and you can definitely see them both on a pretty tight budget.

Vienna is a little bit more expensive, and more in line with the likes of Berlin and Hamburg in terms of expense. You can still do things cheaply, but maybe not as cheaply as Prague, and Budapest.

This is a tough one so in all honestly Prague, Vienna, and Budapest are all on par when it comes to history. The imperial cities have a little bit of everything, from royal palaces, grand churches, and so much more. This whole trip is really a history lovers dream.

In our opinion all three cities are perfect for culture lovers. There is so much to see and do in each of them. That being said, Vienna is the clear winner, as it has a long history of producing classical music, and operas. It’s also got some incredible museums and theatres, and let’s not forget the coffee culture that you have to indulge in.

Prague, Vienna and Budapest all have excellent options when it comes to nightlife. Vienna is full of cool clubs, and bars and there is a little something for everyone. It’s the same with Prague and Budapest.

Prague is great if you are into beer, and the city beer halls are a lot of fun. But for us Budapest really takes the cake when it comes to nightlife. The main reason is because yes there is a little something for everyone like the other cities, but the ruin bars really set it apart from the rest. They are so unique and really set Budapest apart from the rest when it comes to nightlife.

If you are on the fence about planning your own Prague, Vienna, Budapest itinerary, take this as your sign to go. I know that there are more popular places in Europe like Paris or Rome, and yes they are beautiful, but if you want something a little different head to Prague, Vienna, & Budapest.

Hopefully this guide has inspired you to take your own trip, and please don’t forget to pin this article for later.

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Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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Prague, Vienna and Budapest Guided Tour

10 Day Czech Republic, Austria and Hungary Tour

10 days, 4 countries and 5 cities

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Imperial capitals and their captivating history are the highlights on this exciting Prague, Vienna and Budapest trip. You’ll also join a local Hungarian family in their winery for a hearty meal and be spellbound by the stunning views of Charles Bridge and Prague’s Old Town.

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Explore Prague, Vienna and Budapest

Visit St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Town Square of Prague, and the old Hungarian capital of Esztergom

View the Castle and Old Town of Bratislava, the Hofburg Palace and Imperial Boulevards of Vienna and the Parliament Building in Budapest

See St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Opera House in Vienna

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On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

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Imperial Elegance: Prague, Vienna and Budapest Itinerary 14 Days

14 day tour of prague, vienna and budapest.

Exterior of the Hofburg Palace with its iconic green domes in Vienna

  • Stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge, adorned with baroque statues
  • Marvel at the opulence of Vienna's Imperial Palaces, including Schönbrunn Palace
  • Relax in a thermal bath in Budapest before absorbing breathtaking views from Gellert Hill
  • Explore the Wachau Valley, scenic vineyards, villages, and Melk Abbey.
  • Visit the medieval masterpiece Karlstejn Castle nestled in the Czech countryside.
  • Immerse yourself in the artistic charm of Szentendre, a picturesque town on the Danube Bend.

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Arrive Prague

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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.

To Be Determined:

Airport Transfer

Mid-Day/Afternoon:

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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.

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Morning/Mid-Day

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.

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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.

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Prague to Vienna

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.

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9:30 AM - 12:00 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.

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Early Morning to Late Afternoon

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.

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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.

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Vienna to Budapest

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.

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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.

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Early Morning/Morning

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.

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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.

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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.

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Depart Budapest

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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10-Day Prague, Vienna, Budapest Itinerary

Prague -Best places to visit in The Czech Republic

Prague, Vienna, and Budapest are cities with a rich history, fantastic art, and great architecture. This 10-day itinerary starts in Prague, the historical capital of Bohemia then continues to Vienna a city famous for its Imperial Palaces before heading to the capital of Slovakia Bratislava. This wonderful journey finishes in Budapest, another rich source of history. You will see a great deal in these 10 days and there is enough time to absorb their highlights and imagine bygone days at the same time.

Planning a trip to Central Europe? This 10-day Prague, Vienna, Budapest itinerary will help you plan the perfect trip.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

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Central Europe Itinerary: Prague -Vienna – Bratislava – Budapest

3 days in Prague

Day 1 – Arrive in Prague

There are excellent connections by road and rail with all the neighboring countries but this itinerary assumes arrival by air. Visitors coming by other means can join in from the point of booking into their hotels. Settle into your hotel and perhaps have a stroll around then retire to be ready for a busy day tomorrow.

Prague’s International Airport, Vaclav Pavel has three terminals and is located around 20 kilometers to the northwest of the City.

How to get to and from the airport:

Airport Express Bus : Czech Rail runs the best service, an express bus which runs directly to and from the main train station in Prague every 10 minutes between 5.30 am and 9.00 pm costing just 2 euros. Taxis : Authorized taxis are available at the airport and passengers get a 20% Discount Voucher for use if they need a return trip. Prices start at 16 euros. Private Transfers : Private transfers can be booked in advance and provide a door-to-door service. A private driver will meet you in the arrivals terminal with your name and a bottle of water. Welcome Pickups is a well-known, popular company with local, knowledgeable English-speaking drivers, who go through specific training in order to drive. We used Welcome Pickups during our three days in Prague and were quite happy with the service. Click here for more information and to book your private transfer. Public Transport : You can catch buses which link to metro stations from where you can travel to the City. The journey normally takes about 45 minutes. You can buy tickets from kiosks within the terminals. Credit cards other than American Express can be used for payment but the cost is only around 2 euros.

Where to stay in Prague

Klarov Hotel : A boutique four-star hotel in Mala Strana, housed in a former Baroque mansion. It is central to all of the city’s major attractions yet on a small street that doesn’t feel crowded or overwhelming. With just 25 bedrooms, the Baroque hotel is exclusive, yet welcoming and warm. Rooms are modern and luxurious, offering guests plenty of space and great views of the city or castle. Breakfast is included and is served in either the restaurant or garden terrace. Click here for more information and the latest prices. Prague Marriott Hotel : In the center of the Old Town close to Old Town Square, the Marriott is ideally located for you to enjoy the best of Prague while offering the quality amenities as you would expect. Click here for more information and the latest prices.

Old Town Hall Tower & the Astronomical Clock

Eastern Europe itinerary - Prague

Prague has the nickname ‘’The City of 1,000 Spires’’ and if you climb to the top of the Old Town Hall Tower, you will see why. The Tower is also home to the Astronomical Clock where the 12 Apostles appear over the dial on the hour, every hour. Within the Tower, there is a 14th Century chapel, a former prison, and some fine art.

The Jewish Quarter

Joselov has been transformed from a slum to a district of real interest. The Cemetery is small with stones stacked on top of each other while the Museum and Synagogue are both worthy of a visit. Art Nouveau apartments now make this a popular residential area.

Day 2 – Explore Prague

Charles bridge.

prague, vienna, budapest itinerary Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge is an attraction in itself. It connects the Old Town with the stunning Prague Castle on high. It is 520 meters long with plenty of statues and pieces of history as you cross the River. It took half a century, the second half of the 14 th , to complete.

Prague Castle

prague, vienna, budapest itinerary - Prague Castle

This was home to the Bohemian Kings and today, the President of the Republic. It dominates the skyline with great views from there back across the Charles Bridge. Guinness records it as the oldest castle in the world, dated 970. You should try to see the Vladislav Hall and the Lion’s Court as a minimum. It is lit up by night and looks spectacular from anywhere in the City.

Click here to book a guided tour to Prague Castle including admission tickets.

St. Vitus Cathedral

prague, vienna, budapest itinerary - St Vitus Cathedral

St. Vitus is found in the Palace Grounds on the site of a Rotunda from the early 10 th Century. There is a mix of styles in a cathedral begun in the middle of the 14 th Century and completed centuries later. The stained-glass windows are an extremely impressive feature while the altar in the small chapel has 1,300 precious stones.

Wenceslas Square

This Square is the focal point of the new Prague. A statue of King Wenceslas, the Patron Saint of Bohemia has been standing on the same spot since the 14th Century, which is now the Square’s center. There is a host of bars and restaurants in the Square.

The National Museum

The National Museum looks down from the top of the Square. It opened in 1891 and with limited time, perhaps you should head for the Roman artifacts from the early centuries AD, as well as exhibits from the Bronze and Early Stone Age?

Day 3 – Prague to Vienna

The high-speed train for the 250 km trip to Vienna takes around 4 hours with prices varying between 68 and 85 euros. Services run throughout the day.

If you hired a car and driver to take you to Vienna, you can expect the total cost to be around 300 euros. It is still expensive if split 3 ways with no obvious advantages.

A ticket on Flixbus from Prague to Vienna takes just over 4 hours. It means an early start to have some time to see some of Vienna that day but early departures cost around 40 euros. Later in the day, that comes down to 16 euros. However, with time quite tight, the extra 24 euros is probably worth it. That would allow you to have a few hours of daylight in Vienna .

St. Stephen's Cathedral - 3 days in Vienna

Where to stay in Vienna

Hotel Sacher Wien : This 5-star hotel opposite the Opera House was the place that inspired Graham Greene to write the film ‘’The Third Man.’’ Its classic interior dates back to its opening in 1876 yet it guarantees comfort at every turn. The location for seeing Vienna’s highlights cannot be beaten. Click here for more information and the latest prices. Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof : Perfectly located in the center of Vienna’s 1st District–a UNESCO World Heritage Site–many historic sites are within walking distance and friendly staff makes it a top choice. Click here for more information and the latest prices.

Day 4 – Explore Vienna

The Vienna Pass and a Hop-On, Hop-Off bus  ( free with the Vienna Pass ) service makes seeing Vienna a relatively simple exercise. The question is what to include.

Click here for more information and to book the Vienna Pass.

St. Stephens Cathedral

This cathedral built in the early 16 th Century sits on a site where a church has been since the 12 th . Entry is free but you have to pay to go upstairs to the Treasury. You can pay more to climb the 343 stairs to the top of the south tower or take a lift to the top of the south one. From either, you will get a closer look at the wonderfully colored cathedral roof.

Museum of Natural History Vienna

Vienna has a wide range of museums; there is actually a museum quarter. The ones you decide to see will depend on your personal interests.

  • Albertina – free with Vienna Pass : This museum/palace has a great collection of paintings including work from Picasso and Monet. It owns over 100,000 photographs which it displays in a rotation. You can enjoy the whole breadth of art from graphics to architectural, contemporary to modern. Click here to book your e-ticket.
  • Natural History Museum & Kunsthistorische Museum : These two museums are close together beside the Hofburg Palace complex. The former opened in 1889 and contains everything from prehistoric exhibits to meteorites. The Museum of Art History, the latter opened a few years earlier. It contains many exhibits from the Hapsburgs including antiquities, sculptures, and paintings. free with Vienna Pass
  • Military History Museum – free with Vienna Pass Austria’s military history is represented here, covering a period from the 16 th Century.

Belvedere Palace

Upper Belvedere

While you are in the area, you should see this UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the late 17 th /early 18 th Century. The two buildings in the complex were built by Prince Eugene. The gardens and the Baroque-style palaces with a good art collection are well worth your time.

Click here for more information and to buy your tickets to the Belvedere Museum free with Vienna Pass

Day 5 – Explore Vienna

Schönbrunn palace.

prague budapest trip

You should make an early start on your other full day to get out of Vienna’s center to see this UNESCO World Heritage site. It merits a day but with limited time, perhaps a half-day will do? This Baroque-style palace was the 18 th Century Viennese Court, a place where Mozart played his first concert as a 6-year-old. There are 1.400 rooms and several hundred acres of grounds. The Carriage House, the Labyrinth, and the Palmhaus are just three of the highlights.

Click here for more information and to book your skip-the-line guided tour. free with Vienna Pass

Hofburg Palace

Hofburg Palace houses the Sisi Museum that holds a wonderful collection of the Austrian empress’s belongings throughout her life. The Imperial Apartments are lavishly decorated and they give an idea of the luxury that the family indulged in, as does the impressive silver collection on display.

Click here to buy your tickets for the Imperial Treasury in the Hofburg Palace. free with Vienna Pass

City River Cruise

The Danube and its canal flow close to the Old Town. There are a variety of tours of varying durations and you should look at the time available to make your choice. The 75-minute tour can be fitted in during this second afternoon.

free with Vienna Pass

The Giant Ferris Wheel

3 days in Vienna - Vienna Giant Wheel

An excellent way to get a good view of the City is to take the Ferris Wheel which was constructed in 1897 although it required extensive repairs after World War II. If you take a ride just before sunset, better still. It is in Prater Amusement Park two metro stops from the cruise terminal.

Day 6 – Vienna to Bratislava

With Bratislava on the route down towards Budapest, it would be a shame not to stop and see some of its main sights even if time is limited. Bratislava is just one hour away from Vienna.

There is a regular train running at least every hour from Vienna to Bratislava. The journey takes only an hour.

There is also a good bus connection between the two capitals. The journey again is about an hour.

Where to stay in Bratislava

Mercure Bratislava Centrum : I stayed at the Mercure Bratislava Centrum Hotel an exquisite building located near many of the town’s main attractions, next to Bratislava’s train station. The hotel is designed with a contemporary flair which adds a unique contrast to the historic city it’s situated in. This luxurious hotel offers many helpful amenities like a restaurant that serves traditional Slovakian food. It also has a bar that serves a variety of interesting cocktails as well as an extensive wine list. Besides this, you’ll also find a library inside as well as free Wi-Fi access. Click here for more information and the latest prices. Falkensteiner Hotel Bratislava : This 160 room 4-star hotel is located near Bratislava Castle. Facilities include a fitness center, underground parking, bar, and restaurant. There is a range of rooms up to 75 square meters senior suites. Click here for more information and the latest prices.

The Old Town is the main attraction of Bratislava .  How much you can see during the rest of the day will dictate the time of your departure to Budapest. It can be covered in just a few hours and you should start here:

Church of St. Elizabeth

This art nouveau church finished in 1913 has been described as a marshmallow-like structure and although it has an impressive tower, it is its external appearance that makes it worth a visit.

bronze sculpture called man at work, Bratislava

A man peeping out a manhole, Cumil is a statue done 20 years ago to liven up the Old Town. The sculptor Jurai Melis has other work on display in the Old Town; Napoleon’s soldier is an example while you should look out for the Paparazzi by Radko Macuha.

The Main Square

prague budapest trip

This plaza is where you will find the Old Town Hall, a clock tower, and a Renaissance-style fountain. There are several interesting buildings including the Palugyay Palace and the French Embassy. Cafes are a place to watch life go by and at certain times of the year, there are special events and markets.

Michael’s Gate

Michael’s Gate is the last part of the medieval fortifications that used to surround Bratislava. It dates back to the 15 th Century and from there you get great views of the Old Town. Although Baroque in design these days, that was not its origins. There is a tower and a small museum within.

Clarissine Church

This Gothic Church was built in 1297 for the Order of Poor Clares, a very strict nun’s order. When it disbanded in 1782, it became a legal academy. Today, it hosts concerts and exhibitions.

Bratislava Castle

one day in Bratislava Slovakia

The 9 th Century Bratislava Castle is on a hill above the Danube River is a rectangular building with towers in each corner. It underwent renovation after World War II and today holds exhibitions.

St. Martin’s Cathedral

Another Gothic Church which was built in 13 th Century, pilgrims are regular visitors to this cultural monument. There are catacombs and underground passageways because the site is a former cemetery.

Day 7 – Bratislava toBudapest

Bratislava is 200 km from Budapest, mostly heading east.

Trains run between these two capitals throughout the day. The quickest train takes 2.5 hours with prices starting at 28 euros.

If you travel by car, it will take a similar time, but if you hire a car with a driver that can be seriously expensive.

Bratislava to Budapest is a 3-hour trip on Flixbus for 10 euros.

Chain Bridge

Where to stay in Budapest

Hotel Kempinski Corvinus : I had the pleasure of staying at this stylish hotel. It is in a great location; only a minute’s walk from the station. Within the hotel are restaurants and bars as well as a spa, an indoor pool, and a gym. Click here for more information and the latest prices. Hilton Budapest : Formerly an old 13 th -century monastery, this hotel is located opposite The Fisherman’s Bastion and provides full amenities including a restaurant, bar, gym, and sauna. Click here for more information and the latest prices. Promenade City Hotel : I stayed here on my first visit to Budapest. Located in a shopping street, this modern hotel offers Wi-Fi, a minibar, flat-screen TVs, and a complimentary breakfast. Click here for more information and the latest prices.

Visit the thermal baths

You have arrived at the final city of your Prague, Vienna, Budapest itinerary and it is time for a bit of relaxation. After settling in at your hotel I suggest a visit to one of the city’s famous natural thermal baths. There are many options to choose from. The beautiful Gellert Baths with stunning architecture can be found inside the Gellert hotel. The Széchenyi Baths are the most well-known and hold the title of the largest medicinal bath in Europe. Finally, if you are looking for the most traditional baths where locals go, I suggest the Kiraly Baths.

Day 8 – Explore Budapest

There are so many things to do in Budapest , which was formerly two cities, Buda on high and looking down on Pest across the Danube.

Buda Castle & Castle Hill

View of Buda from the Chain bridge

Buda has needed good defenses over the centuries; Castle Hill is naturally good to defense. A funicular takes visitors up to visit several major attractions including the Castle, a 200-room palace that replaced the original 13 th Century castle in the 18 th Century. World War II damage has been repaired and visitors can now go in to see the National Gallery and the History Museum. The whole hill is a UNESCO World Heritage site

Fisherman’s Bastion

prague budapest trip

Defensive walls were built by the Guild of Fishermen many centuries ago. Today’s structures and walls come from the end of the 19 th Century. The Statue of St. Stephen, the first King of Hungary, and reliefs recording events from his life are just two examples of interesting things to examine.

Mattias Church

Matthias Church

Mattias Church opened in 1269 with the representation of her death added in the 14th Century. When the Ottomans took the region, the church became a mosque and remained one until they withdrew. The earliest major event at Mattias was the coronation of Charles I in 1309.

Great Synagogue & Jewish Museum

Once you leave Castle Hill, you should cross the Chain Bridge into Pest. There was once a major Jewish population in Budapest and its people suffered at different times. You can learn more about that in the Museum close to the Great Synagogue, the largest in the world outside New York.

New York Café

Few who have visited this impressive café argue with the claim that it is the most beautiful café in the world. You can have everything from breakfast to dinner though to eat after sunset, you may have to book. Get there before traditional dinner hours and enjoy the impressive menu and the small classical orchestra entertaining customers.

Day 9 – Explore Budapest

the view from Fisherman's Bastion

The Parliament buildings on the Danube are among the largest in the world. There are 20 kilometers of corridors and 700 rooms. Tours last around 90 minutes and you will see the Crown Jewels. There is good access but some areas are limited when parliament is in session.

Click here for more information and to book a guided tour to the Parliament.

Shoes on the Danube

Back out on the banks of the Danube, there is a wonderful memorial to those Jews shot on the banks and allowed to drift away down the River. That horror took place towards the end of World War II and the 60 pairs of steel boots and shoes bring home to visitors the horror of those times. Far more than 60 suffered that fate but the 2005 sculpture ensures the events will never be forgotten.

St. Stephen’s Basilica

St. Stephen's Basilica - 3 days in Budapest

The cathedral in Pest was begun in 1851 and consecrated half a century later. There was damage during the Second World War but that was repaired. The views from the top of the Tower are outstanding; there is a lift if you need it. The mosaics and the mummified hand of St. Stephen are among the things to see inside.

Central Market Hall

Locals shop at this huge market but it is also very much a tourist attraction. There is no doubt it is the best place in Budapest with fresh produce, meats, etc., over three floors.

Danube Cruise

You have already cruised on the Danube earlier on the trip but you should take to the water again in Budapest, day or night. You get great views of both banks of the river and cruise past many of the City’s highlights. With limited time, St. Margaret’s Island probably isn’t an option, nor is the lovely Calvinist Church on the opposite bank.

Click here for more information and to book a Danube Cruise.

Day 10 Flight home

You have packed in quite a lot into your journey through Central Europe’s finest cities Prague, Vienna, Budapest, and of course Bratislava. It may give you an appetite to see other parts of Central Europe and the Balkans. Talking of appetite, you should eat a good breakfast before heading from the City Centre out to Ferenc Liszt Airport 15 km away. Taxis are readily available and probably the most convenient way to get there.

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Prague and Budapest by Train

❮ prague and budapest by train, customize and book.

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This 6 night sample itinerary includes:.

  • Hotel for 3 nights in Prague
  • Train from Prague to Budapest
  • Hotel for 3 nights in Budapest

Experience the best European sophistication and the new and trendy development in the new era with this amazing package, visiting Czech Republic and Hungary . Begin in Prague (the "City of a Thousand Spires", known for its Old Town Square, colorful baroque buildings, Gothic churches and the medieval Astronomical Clock) and after that, take a train to Budapest (Buda is set on hills with castles and forts overlooking the water and connected to the Pest side with its magnificent bridges). This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

prague budapest trip

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is perhaps best-known for its beautiful capital, Prague, although it is known for much more, such as its numerous castles and châteaux (over 1,200 of them!). It is also well-known for having some of the most delicious food and drink in Europe, in particular its wines and famed Pilsner-style beer. The Czech Republic has and had a very long Jewish tradition, which is triumphantly on display after the horrors and loss of World War II in such places as the Great Synagogue in Plzen, the third-largest in the world. Finally, the Czech Republic is well-known for its museums, educating visitors on everything from history and art to folk arts and crafts and even life in the former Communist Czechoslovakia.

prague budapest trip

Perhaps the first thing you think of when you think of Hungary is its delicious cuisine; after all, it is the country that gave us goulash and fisherman`s soup. It is also known the world over for its 1,000-year historical tradition which bred strong folk traditions. Hungary is also known for its spring and summer festivals, its thermal spas, stunning and varied architectural styles befitting `the crossroads of Europe`, and some of the most gorgeous scenery you will find on the continent. Be sure to visit the charming capital of Budapest, split by the Danube, and then travel further afield to Transdanubia and the Great Hungarian Plain.

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The package rates displayed are your total price per person based on Double Occupancy and your Arrival Date and Number of Nights selected. You can change details after selecting your travel date.

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Trip Summary

prague budapest trip

Rows of steeples stacked on onion domes pierce the sky, earning Prague the name 'The City of a Thousand Spires'. Prague has stood the test of time: 1,000 years of art and architecture have collided with power politics and religious conflicts. New shops and restaurants have opened, expanding the city's culinary reach far beyond tradition. The arts and theater are thriving in the 'new' Prague. The arts of the new era possess a distinctive Czech flavor. All of this frenetic activity plays well against a stunning backdrop of towering churches and centuries-old bridges and alleyways. Explore Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square and the Astronomical Clock, Wenceslas Square, the Jewish Quarter and so much more!

prague budapest trip

Two cities in one! Buda on a hill, historical part of the city and Pest on a plain its shops and boulevards both separated by the Danube flowing between them and connected by magnificent bridges. Budapest looks its most beautiful at dawn, yet it is also spectacularly appealing at night. With a unique, youthful atmosphere, a world-class classical music scene as well as a pulsating night life and an exceptionally rich offering of natural thermal baths, Budapest is one of Europe`s most delightful and enjoyable cities. This is a vibrant city: it throbs with life morning, noon and night; a remarkable and wholly unpretentious place. Visit and explore the Buda Hill and the Castle District, Parliament, the Chain Bridge, Heroes' Square, St. Stephen's Basilica, the Opera House, Matthias Church, Fisherman's Bastion, Gellert Hill, the thermal baths and so much more.

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Your 7-Day Travel Itinerary between Vienna, Budapest, and Prague

7-Day Travel Itinerary between Vienna, Budapest, and Prague

Table of contents Show

Budapest (days 1-2), day 3-4: vienna, day 5-6: prague, day 7: departure, what is the best month to visit prague, vienna and budapest , day 1: hello prague, day 2: prague: history walk, day 3: discover vienna, the music city, day 4: vienna—imperial splendor, day 5: budapest, the danube pearl, day 6: budapest – celebrating history and culture, day 7: central europe goodbye, effortless travel between vienna, budapest, and prague with seamless train journeys.

Vienna

The Prague, Vienna, and Budapest 7-day itinerary will take you through the heart of Central Europe, revealing the rich history, cultural tapestry, and architectural wonders of three wonderful cities: Vienna, Budapest, and Prague. This painstakingly prepared Prague Vienna Budapest 7 days itinerary promises a beautiful blend of imperial elegance, dynamic urban life, and medieval charm, providing an outstanding experience.

A first-time visitor to the regions will enjoy spending most of their time seeing the famous landmarks in these towns, but if you’re looking for some off-the-beaten-path attractions and day trips, you’ll find them in the fine print. 

The itinerary starts in Prague and finishes in Budapest, but keep in mind that these cities are not too far from each other, so you may easily rearrange the stops if you like. 

Read on for the best Prague, Vienna, and Budapest 7-day itinerary !

How Many Days for a Whirlwind Tour of Budapest, Vienna, and Prague

How many days in Budapest, Vienna and Prague? In order to see the main attractions  and to explore Budapest, Vienna, and Prague in a short amount of time, a 5- to 7-day plan would be ideal.:

  • Stop by Fisherman’s Bastion and Buda Castle to explore.
  • Take a walk along the Danube Promenade and see the Hungarian Parliament Building.
  • Take it easy at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
  • Stop by the historic district and see St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
  • See the gardens and Schönbrunn Palace.
  • Marvel at the Belvedere Palace’s cultural treasures.
  • Take a trip to the National Gallery, the Museum of Communism, or the Jewish Quarter.
  • Delve into Petřín Hill and stroll idly by the Vltava River.
  • Spend more time seeing any remaining attractions or enjoying some downtime.
  • Leave the city of Prague.

This itinerary provides you with a taste of the top sights in each city, so you can see the architectural, historical, and cultural landmarks in a shorter amount of time. Modifications can be made according to individual tastes and the speed of travel.

Which is the best month to visit Prague, Vienna and budapest ? Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October) are ideal times to visit Budapest, Prague, and Vienna. The weather is usually pleasant and moderate throughout these months, so it’s perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. 

It is recommended that you verify the exact weather prediction for your travel dates since weather conditions can vary. Also, plan ahead, particularly during busy seasons, to secure a place to stay and entrance to famous sights, and keep an eye out for big events or festivals that could impact your trip.

Discover the Heart of Europe: A 7-Day Prague, Vienna, Budapest Itinerary

To make the best of your trip across the three beautiful cities,check out this Prague, Vienna, and Budapest 7-day itinerary. If you are  considering public transport which is very convinient, stop by the Prague ÚAN Florenc bus station .Remember that this is a general guide; you can customize it to your tastes.

Welcome to Prague, the “City of a Hundred Spires.” Start your tour in Prague Castle, the world’s largest ancient castle complex. Walk across the statue-lined Charles Bridge for stunning views of the Vltava River. End the day with the Old Town Square astronomical clock for its famed animated hourly spectacle.

Discover Prague’s rich history in Josefov, the ancient Jewish Quarter. Discover the hauntingly gorgeous Old Jewish Cemetery and antique synagogues. Explore Lesser Town’s charming passageways and St. Nicholas Church in the afternoon. Take a Vltava river cruise to see the city’s skyline to end the day.

Leave Prague for Vienna via rail. Lose yourself at Schönbrunn Palace’s gardens, the former imperial summer palace. Vienna’s big concert halls provide outstanding classical music concerts throughout the evening. Enjoy Mozart and Strauss’s music and the city’s musical tradition.

First, visit Vienna’s famous St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Before visiting a Viennese cafe, walk through Graben’s lively shopping district. Visit the Royal Hofburg Palace, once home to the Habsburgs. Finish your day at Belvedere Palace, home to Gustav Klimt’s “The Kiss.”

After leaving Vienna, take a picturesque train to Budapest, Hungary’s charming capital. Visit the architectural marvel Hungarian Parliament Building to begin your tour. The Danube River leads to Castle Hill, offering panoramic city views. Relax and refresh in one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths after a day of touring.

The chilling House of Terror Museum depicts Hungary’s worst moments. The largest synagogue in Europe, brilliant street art, and lively ruin bars await in the Jewish Quarter. Immerse yourself in Hungarian culture with a traditional meal and folklore show in the evening.

On your final day, cruise the Danube River and admire the beauty. Enjoy a breakfast at one of Budapest’s riverbank cafes before leaving Central Europe. Keep memories of magical cities, fascinating history, and a desire to return.

With the help of our Prague, Vienna, and Budapest 7-day itinerary you were able to visit the three cities rich in history, art, and culture. This 7-day trip took you across Central Europe’s fairytale castles and beautiful landscapes. Your recollections from this journey will forever inspire you to seek more remarkable adventures. Pack up and prepare to discover a new world! 

Central Europe is a stunning destination, and traveling there has never been simpler. Vienna, Budapest, and Prague are now conveniently accessible by rail, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in their rich history, culture, and beauty.

Take advantage of a pleasant and interesting journey through Central Europe, as well as the opportunity to explore the gorgeous Central European landscapes, by taking a Prague Vienna Budapest train

What are some recommended local dishes to try in each city to experience authentic local cuisine?

Each city offers unique local dishes : Prague is known for its goulash and dumplings, Vienna for Wiener Schnitzel and Sachertorte, and Budapest for goulash soup and chimney cake. Trying these will enhance your cultural experience.

Are there any tips for navigating public transportation in each city, particularly for first-time visitors?

Public transportation is efficient in all three cities. Familiarize yourself with each city’s system, consider purchasing day or multi-day passes, and use apps for real-time information.

Can the itinerary be adjusted for travelers with mobility issues or disabilities?

The itinerary can be adapted for those with mobility issues. Major attractions in these cities are generally accessible, but it’s best to plan and confirm accessibility in advance.

What are some lesser-known attractions in each city that could be added to the itinerary for a more unique experience?

For a unique experience, explore lesser-known sites like Vyšehrad in Prague, Hundertwasserhaus in Vienna, and the Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum in Budapest.

How can travelers manage currency exchange and handle multiple currencies efficiently while traveling through these three different countries?

Manage currencies by using a multi-currency bank card or withdrawing local currencies at ATMs. It’s practical to familiarize yourself with the exchange rates and budget accordingly.

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A Mini Guide to Street Art in Prague 2024 

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prague budapest trip

Budapest to Prague One-Way Transfer Tour

Turn the wasted travel day into the highlight of your trip with stops at Györ , Bratislava the capital of Slovakia, and the UNESCO-listed Lednice Palace on your journey from Budapest to Prague.

Very hard to top

Getting from Budapest to Prague using this transfer was the smartest move we made on our trip. Much better than having to content with airport waits and navigating through railway stations. Very comfortable van, a driver/courier who chatted with us and didn't lecture in depth but gave more than enough information about the places we stopped off. We saw much of the countryside, visiting two towns that we would have zoomed past if we had been in a rental vehicle. All-in-all using a Sidetrip Transfer is a no brainer!

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Trip itinerary, leave from budapest at 08:00.

This tour offers hotel pick-up for private bookings. You will be picked up from your hotel, apartment, or any other pick-up point accessible by car. Please check the "Meeting Point" section for open group tour departures.

Stop 1: Györ

prague budapest trip

We stroll around the fairytale-like Baroque Old Town of Győr and discover its narrow streets and beautiful views.

What we'll do

During the tour we walk around the Old Town of Györ. It’s famous for Baroque style houses and a fabulous Town Hall from 1900. Györ is known for many of its churches that remind us of the 1000-year Christian history of Hungary. We’ll wander around the narrow streets and learn about Hungarian history.

prague budapest trip

About Györ Györ is one of the most important cities in Hungary. The city has a population of about 130 000 people. It’s located on the Danube River. The river has brought people, trade, and wealth to the region throughout history. In the 18th century the city prospered and that is when most of the beautiful Old Town was built. Despite heavy damage to the city in the Second World War Györ has been extensively renovated since the 1970s.

Stop 2: Bratislava

prague budapest trip

We walk around the beautiful medieval Old Town of Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia and sit down for a delicious lunch.

We’ll visit Bratislava Old Town that is famous for its medieval buildings, narrow streets, and little courtyards. You’ll learn about the history of the region as we wander around the city centre. We will also admire the beautiful castle of Bratislava that towers over the whole Old Town. The castle was rebuilt in the 20th century and reminds us of the importance of this city throughout history. In Bratislava you will also have time for a lunch break (not included).

prague budapest trip

About Bratislava

Bratislava is the capital of Slovakia with a population of about 475 000 people. The location of Bratislava has been inhabited continuously for almost 7000 years. The city is situated on the Danube River that has brought people, wealth, and trade to the area. For a long time Bratislava was part of the Kingdom of Hungary. It is under the 18th-century reign of Queen Maria Theresa that the city truly flourished. After the First World War Bratislava became part of Czechoslovakia and the population of Czechs and Slovaks in the city grew. The city became the capital of Slovakia after the Velvet Divorce in 1993 when Slovak Republic separated from the Czech Republic.

Stop 3: Lednice Palace

prague budapest trip

We have a chance to admire one of the former summer residences of the royalty of Liechtenstein, the Lednice Palace and Gardens.

  • Lednice Palace

What we'll do We will have a chance to walk around the beautiful and famous gardens surrounding the Palace during the tour. Lednice Palace and Gardens , the way we see them today, are designed in the 19th century for entertaining in the summer season. They palace is probably the best example of English Gothic style in Continental Europe. The Palace and Grounds, about 200h, are under UNESCO World Heritage protection due their unique architectural landscape.

prague budapest trip

About Lednice Lednice Palace and Grounds is a fabulous example of wealth the nobility had in Europe in the 19th century. The Lichtenstein family had huge landholdings in the area that they had gathered gradually over the centuries through conquering, marrying, and buying. It was their loyalty to the Habsburg dynasty that raised the Lichtensteins to great prominence in the Austria-Hungarian Empire.

prague budapest trip

Arrive at Prague at ~18:00

This tour offers hotel drop-off for private bookings. Please provide your preferred drop-off location when making the booking. If you book the open group tour then the drop-off is in front of Hilton Prague Old Town hotel (V Celnici 2079/7, Prague).

Want to personalize this trip?   When booking a private transfer, tell us your itinerary and start time preferences and we'll do everything we can to accomodate your request. Note: open group tours cannot be customized .

We offer the chance to see popular tourist sights, as well as lesser-known places of cultural and historic significance, while you travel between two cities.

Most of our tours are limited to a maximum of 8 people which means you get the personal care and attention of your tour leader during your trip, as well as the chance to get to know your fellow passengers.

Our tour leaders are selected due to their thorough knowledge of local history and culture, as well as their enthusiasm for travel. The stories they share will inspire you!

Thousands of travellers have reviewed our tours with a 5-star rating in the Baltics and Central Europe.

Our tours run regularly so anyone can afford to join the open group tour making it a great travel option for solo and independent travellers.

Amazing coach captain.

Worth a tour.

The best kind of travel day

This was a fantastic alternative to a long train or bus ride and a great way to see some places I would have never stopped at. Pavlina was a fun and knowledgeable guide, and it was fun to meet others on the tour as a solo traveler.

Three cheers for Levi

Thanks Levi, for making our road trip from Budapest to Prague, interesting and enjoyable. While a recent addition to the Sidetrip team, Levi was knowledgeable, friendly and flexible in his approach to the logistics of the trip and imparting relevant information. Although we had booked a public tour, the four of us were the only passengers in the van. That enabled Levi to provide a more personal service, which was very much appreciated. We would not hesitate to recommend Sidetrip as a transport option and would regard future groups as fortunate if they were allocated Levi as their driver/guide.

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What's included.

  • One-way transfer from Budapest to Prague with 3 sightseeing stops
  • Knowledgeable local tour leader
  • Transport in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan or car
  • Room for a reasonable amount of luggage
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off (available only for private tours)
  • Lunch (a break is scheduled for this)
  • Gratuities (optional)

Good to know

  • Confirmation will be provided within 24 hours of booking.
  • All tours are subject to availability.
  • Minimum numbers for group size apply. There is a possibility of cancellation even after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative tour or a refund. The Sidetrip team will also be happy to help you arrange alternative transport to your destination city.
  • Paper free confirmation: just bring your confirmation code or a valid ID.
  • A moderate amount of walking is involved, please wear flat shoes suitable for walking.
  • Infant seats are available on request during the booking.
  • The tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress according to the weather and wear proper shoes for walking (waterproof would be great in winter).
  • The planned duration of this tour is 10 hours. Our priority is to deliver you safely and on time to your destination. In the event of delays due to traffic, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances, we reserve the right to abbreviate or omit certain stops to ensure your prompt arrival.
  • All our public group tours are in English. Private tours in different languages are subject to availability.

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Meeting point.

This tour offers hotel pick-up only for private bookings. For private bookings, you will be picked up from your hotel, apartment, or any other pick-up point accessible by car. Please provide your preferred pick-up location when making the booking.

For open group tours, hotel pick-up is not available. The group tour meeting point is opposite the Hotel Ritz-Carlton at Erzsebet Square (Erzsébet tér). Your guide will meet you at this location.

See the drop-off point in Prague  

Drop-off point.

This tour offers hotel drop-off for private bookings only. Please provide your preferred drop-off location when making the booking. If you book the open group tour then the drop-off is in front of Hilton Prague Old Town hotel (V Celnici 2079/7, Prague).

Questions & Answers

Yes, this is a one-way tour ending in Prague. Please note that the tour does not take you back to Budapest.

The planned duration of this tour is 10 hours. For the safety of our passengers and drivers, we are unable to accommodate requests to extend this duration.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off are only available when booking this tour as a private tour for a single group. Open group tours have a fixed meeting point and drop-off location.

Yes! We have plenty of space for luggage at the back of our vehicles. One big suitcase and one smaller bag or suitcase per passenger is totally fine. There is no extra charge for luggage, as long as you don't plan to move to the other city with all of your belongings :)

Lunch is not included in the tour price but a lunch break is scheduled. Kindly let our tour leader know if you have any special dietary needs that we should take in account.

Yes! With a maximum of 8 people in each group, our guide can make sure that the pace of the tour is suitable for everyone. Just note that the tour does include some walking at the stops.

All our groups are limited to a maximum of 8 travellers for open group tours and in case of a private transfer it’ll be just your group in the van with our guide. Face masks are available in each vehicle upon request and hand sanitizers are placed in a hand’s reach from all passengers.

If you cancel more than 48 hours before the tour, your booking is fully refunded*. If you cancel less than 48 hours before the tour or in the case of a no-show, no refund is issued.

*Please note, that the credit card processing fee (1.5-3%, up to 5.9% if you paid by Paypal) charged by the third-party payment provider will not be refunded.

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Prague to Budapest Cultural Walking Tour

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If you’ve ever wondered how it would be to time-travel, this compact visit to the Czech Republic, Austria and Hungary is for you. In Prague, Vienna and Budapest, you’ll enjoy expertly guided walking tours that explore these one-time capitals of the Habsburg Empire whose spires and castles create the continent’s most inspiring skylines. Out in the countryside, the sights are just as amazing. Powder-blue cathedrals leap up from the heart of valley towns. Incredibly intact villages are so perfectly preserved that the U.N. recognizes them as World Heritage Sites. Strolling through wide-open farmland, you’ll be forgiven if you feel you’ve stepped back into feudal times. Whether you’re sipping wine from the terraced vineyards along the Danube valley or hitching a ride on a friendly farmer’s tractor, you’ll marvel that these places still exist. And you’ll bring home with you a rich slice of Europe’s life and history that most travelers never see.

  • Discover one of Europe’s most beautiful cities as you stroll Prague’s bridges, cobblestone alleyways and magnificent Old Town 
  • Visit with artisans at a local brewery for a tasting and explore the remarkably well-preserved villages of Telc and Cesky Krumlov
  • Enjoy a beautiful walk through the rolling grasslands to Rozmberk Castle
  • Stroll through fields of flax to a paper mill and visit the serene monastery of Zwettl
  • Step back in time and explore the castle ruins that tower over baroque Durnstein and where Richard the Lionhearted was held hostage during the Crusades 
  • Soak in the Austrian countryside on a vineyard walk, then cruise the beautiful Danube.
  • Get insider access to Vienna from our local guide, who loves showing off its great sights and colorful markets, where you’ll graze through the produce stands to construct a typical Viennese lunch.
  • Enjoy a fascinating daylong exploration, rambling from the Royal Palace in Buda to Europe’s largest synagogue and a district overflowing with cafes and musicians in Pest.

Starting Point:

Ending point:.

Itinerary Map

Click map to enlarge

Walking Level

Daily mileage options: 2-8 miles, route notes:, dates & prices.

The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have and the lower your price. And you can always change your mind — you won’t be charged to transfer to a different trip before your final payment is due. Talk with one of our travel experts at 800-200-3887 .

Select our “Family Departure” to travel with other families.

Woman overlooking the Charles River and

Why Choose Classic Journeys

Travel + Leisure has awarded Classic Journeys the #1 World’s Best Tour Operator multiple times and says, "Classic Journeys provides unbeatable access to experiences around the globe." Here’s what that access means for you.

  • Experience the world on foot and at eye level . Each day, join your guide on the most cinematic footpaths in the region.
  • Exceptional full-time local guides who become your well-connected friend . Our amazing guides are with you throughout each day of the tour, share their lifelong connections as well as engaging anecdotes about the history and culture of the region.
  • Small groups that provide you unrivaled access . An average of fewer than 10 guests per departure means we can offer you special access to sites like Stonehenge so you experience the stone circle when it’s closed to the general public, a guided visit to Zion Narrows that other companies cannot arrange because of larger group sizes, and vineyard walks with a count and countess in Tuscany.
  • Award-winning hotels are waiting for you at the end of every day . Luxuriate in the finest and most distinctive accommodations in the region you’re exploring, including rainforest lodges, 16th century villas, and award-winning properties that show up on World’s Best and Gold lists.
  • Eat like (and with) the locals. Food is a foolproof way into the hearts, homes and history of the places you visit with us. From gourmet picnics to coveted local restaurants, our meals offer you opportunities to explore native food traditions and fine dining.
  • Handcrafted itineraries with all activities included. With our long-term friendships, we know our walking tour regions more personally than anyone else. So you get thoughtfully curated itineraries that combine explorations of the villages, organic farms, archeological sites and the people who know them best.
  • Sustainable travel that supports the places you’re visiting. We put our local currency into the pockets of the people who live where we travel. It’s your guarantee that you’ll have authentic, up-close experiences on your trip. Best of all, our person-to-person approach helps sustain their ways of life.

Accommodations

We spend years cultivating personal relationships with our hoteliers to provide you thoughtfully selected accommodations that reveal the true character of the region. Here is a sampling of our favorite hotels on this tour. 

Hotel Bellevue in Cesky Krumlov

Hotel Bellevue

Set in the medieval heart of Cesky Krumlov, this fine property was created by combining several historic buildings. The cozy rooms are steps away from some of Europe’s most scenic streets. There’s also a fine restaurant as well as sauna and spa.

prague budapest trip

Richard Lowenherz Hotel

On the banks of the Danube, this hotel is nestled between an ancient monastery and a soaring, sky blue Rococo church. The hotel, known for its extremely hospitable hosts, is just one quiet block from the village center.

Hotel Paris in Prague

Hotel Paris Prague

A landmark Art Nouveau structure, this beautifully restored hotel is located in the heart of Prague’s Old Town. From the generously proportioned rooms, guests are just steps away from the gothic Powder Tower and the premier arts and shopping district.

prague budapest trip

Aria Hotel Budapest

The Aria Hotel is a captivating boutique hotel whose design was inspired by music. Located in the heart of Budapest, this luxurious property has modern amenities, a rooftop bar with city views, an upscale spa and an indoor courtyard with live piano music.

What’s Included

  • Award-winning hotels that provide you unlimited access to the people and places, culture and history you came to experience
  • All breakfasts, 1 lunch and 7 dinners
  • Full-time experienced guide(s) who are with you throughout the trip and handle behind-the-scenes logistics
  • Admissions to scheduled events as noted in the detailed daily itinerary
  • Gratuities for hotels, meals, and baggage
  • All land transportation during the trip

Above & Beyond Benefits

Privileged access events.

  • One-of-a-kind access to remarkable people, places and activities arranged just for you.
  • In many regions, we uncork wonderful local wines at every dinner, compliments of Classic Journeys.

Invisible Check-In

  • When your group arrives, we whisk you and your bags to your room immediately. No waiting – no tipping.

Perfect Pairings Dinners

  • A special dinner prepared by one of our favorite chefs with a procession of wines tailored to each course.

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Prague to Budapest Trains

  • Prague ​Departure station: Prague Main Station Wilsonova 8, 110 00, Prague, Czechia

Arrival station:

Budapest Main Station

​ Budapest, Kerepesi út 2-4, 1087 Hungary

Prague to Budapest Train Information

Train travel from Prague to Budapest typically takes 7 hours 8 minutes, covering a distance of about 275 miles (443 km). Tickets for the trip start from $32 if booked in advance and there are 8 trains per day between Prague and Budapest.

Shortest travel time: ​

7 hrs 8 min

Longest travel time:

​9 hrs 46 min

Earliest departure:

Latest departure:

Prague to Budapest Train Timetable

If you are looking for a complete schedule of your train from Prague to Budapest, you can look at the following table which contains times of the earliest and latest train departures, fastest trip durations, and the number of departures scheduled per day.

*​Check the current Prague to Budapest timetable on the website Rail.Ninja

EuroCity Express Train Prague to Budapest

Prague to budapest train classes.

There are several different train classes to select from on EuroCity trains , including 1st and 2nd class. Generally, in the second class, there are two seats to a row, in the 1st class, there are two seats to a row and, on some trains, there are compartments with six seats each.

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Prague to Budapest Railway Map

Related routes, prague - berlin, prague - krakow, prague - ostrava, prague - brno.

Prague, Vienna & Budapest Itinerary

prague budapest trip

Central Europe, a tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, has long been a favorite destination for travelers from around the world. Among its most celebrated jewels are three cities that have stood the test of time, each one offering a unique blend of past and present, tradition and innovation: Prague, Vienna, and Budapest.

You may be interested in: Day Trips From Budapest and Day trip from Budapest to Vienna .

Prague, known as "The City of a Hundred Spires," beckons with its fairytale-like ambiance, cobbled streets, and iconic architecture. Vienna, the Imperial City, speaks of opulence, grandeur, and an unparalleled musical legacy. Lastly, Budapest, aptly termed "The Pearl of the Danube," is a city of thermal baths, grand boulevards, and a confluence of cultures. These cities, while distinct in their offerings, share a rich tapestry of history, having seen empires rise and fall, and having been at the crossroads of cultures and epochs.

For travelers seeking a journey that combines the allure of ancient history with modern sophistication, this trio offers an unparalleled experience. This itinerary is designed to guide you through the best of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest in a seamless travel experience, ensuring you soak in the essence of each city and leave with memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a unique travel experience, this journey through the heart of Central Europe promises to be unforgettable.

Table of contents

General travel tips for prague, vienna & budapest, vienna: the imperial city, budapest: the pearl of the danube, optional day trips from each city.

Central Europe, especially the cities of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, offers an enriching travel experience with its mix of history, culture, and modern vibes. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, here are some general travel tips tailored for these destinations:

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) : Mild temperatures and fewer tourists make these periods ideal for exploration.
  • Summer (July to August) : Peak tourist season. Expect larger crowds, especially in popular spots, but also vibrant events and festivals.
  • Winter (November to February) : Cold, yet enchanting, especially if you enjoy festive lights, Christmas markets, and fewer tourists.

Transportation Options Between Cities

  • Trains : Efficient and scenic, the train network connects these cities conveniently. Consider the Railjet service for a faster connection.
  • Buses : Often more economical than trains, with companies like FlixBus and RegioJet offering comfortable services.
  • Flights : Quick but usually unnecessary given the close proximity of these cities. Also, you might miss out on the scenic countryside.
  • Car Rentals : Ideal for those who wish to make stops in smaller towns or explore the countryside. Ensure you're aware of cross-border rental policies.

Local Currency and Payment Methods

  • Prague : Czech Koruna (CZK). However, Euros might be accepted at some touristy places.
  • Vienna : Euro (EUR)
  • Budapest : Hungarian Forint (HUF), but like Prague, some places might accept Euros.
  • Tip : Always keep some local currency for places that don't accept cards. However, credit/debit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available.

Language Tips and Common Phrases

  • While English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases can enhance your experience:
  • Czech (Prague) : Děkuji (Thank you), Ahoj (Hello)
  • German (Vienna) : Danke (Thank you), Hallo (Hello)
  • Hungarian (Budapest) : Köszönöm (Thank you), Szia (Hello)
  • Invest in a translation app or pocket dictionary for more complex interactions.

Safety and Etiquette

  • All three cities are generally safe, but like anywhere, be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Tipping: In restaurants, it's customary to leave a tip of around 5-10%, unless service charge is included.

Connectivity

  • Prepaid SIM cards are readily available for tourists, offering good data packages.
  • Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, restaurants, and some public areas. However, using a VPN is recommended for added security.

Packing Tips

  • Comfortable walking shoes are a must, given the amount of exploration on foot.
  • Carry a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella.
  • For winter travel, pack warm clothing, including gloves, scarves, and hats.

Stay Informed

  • Check for any public holidays or events that might affect the opening hours of attractions.
  • Stay updated on any travel advisories or local regulations, especially if traveling during uncertain times.

With these general travel tips in hand, you're all set to embark on a memorable journey through the mesmerizing cities of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest. Enjoy the perfect blend of the old-world charm and contemporary vibes that these cities offer. Safe travels!

The heart of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Vienna has long stood as a symbol of grandeur, culture, and elegance. A city where every street corner whispers tales of emperors and composers, Vienna seamlessly marries its imperial history with a modern and vibrant arts scene. Here's an itinerary to experience the best of Vienna in 3 days:

Day 4: Vienna’s Historic Center

St. Stephen’s Cathedral

  • St. Stephen’s Cathedral : A Gothic masterpiece in the heart of the city. Climb its tower for a panoramic view of Vienna.
  • Graben & Kohlmarkt : Wander through these historic shopping streets lined with luxury boutiques and traditional coffeehouses.
  • Afternoon break at a traditional Viennese coffeehouse : Try Café Central or Café Demel for an authentic experience. Order a Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel for a sweet treat.

Day 5: Palaces and Art

Belvedere Palace

  • Belvedere Palace : Home to Austrian art including Gustav Klimt’s “The Kiss”. The palace's gardens offer a peaceful retreat.
  • Museumsquartier : This innovative space hosts a range of museums, from the Leopold Museum with its extensive collection of modern Austrian art to the contemporary MUMOK. End your day at one of its trendy cafes or bars.

Day 6: Music, Riversides, and Modern Vienna

Prater

  • Naschmarkt : Vienna's most popular market. Try some local delicacies or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
  • Danube Canal : Take a leisurely walk or bike ride. Along the way, you'll find street art, pop-up bars, and restaurants.
  • Prater : End your day with a visit to this large public park. Its iconic Giant Ferris Wheel offers an unmatched view of the city, especially during sunset.

Eating in Vienna:

  • Breakfast : Start your day with a 'Wiener Frühstück'—typically coffee, bread, butter, and jam.
  • Local Delicacies : Don't miss out on trying Wiener Schnitzel, Goulash, and for dessert, the aforementioned Sachertorte.
  • Dinner : Visit the historic Grinzing neighborhood for traditional Heuriger (wine taverns) where you can enjoy local wines and Austrian dishes in a cozy ambiance.

Note on Music in Vienna : This city is renowned as the "City of Music". Consider booking a concert, perhaps at the Vienna State Opera or at the Musikverein, for a quintessential Viennese experience.

With its magnificent palaces, world-class museums, and rich musical heritage, Vienna offers travelers an immersive dive into a city where the past and present coexist harmoniously. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a music aficionado, Vienna has something to captivate every visitor.

Straddling the majestic Danube River, Budapest is a city of thermal baths, grand boulevards, and architectural wonders. The fusion of two historic cities, Buda and Pest, this Hungarian capital offers a unique mix of the old world and contemporary European vibrancy. Dive into the allure of Budapest with this 3-day itinerary:

Day 7: Buda - The Historic Heart

Matthias Church

  • Fisherman's Bastion : This neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque terrace is perfect for those postcard-like photos of Budapest.
  • Matthias Church : Located near the Bastion, its striking architecture and colorful roof tiles make it a must-visit.
  • Gellért Hill : For a bit of a hike, ascend this hill to find the Liberty Statue and enjoy another breathtaking view of the city.

Day 8: Pest - The Urban Beat

St. Stephen’s Basilica

  • St. Stephen’s Basilica : Climb to the dome for a 360-degree view of Budapest.
  • Andrássy Avenue : A UNESCO World Heritage site, this avenue is lined with Neo-Renaissance mansions and luxury boutiques, leading you to the Heroes' Square and City Park.
  • Széchenyi Thermal Bath : In the City Park, unwind in Europe's largest medicinal bath, an iconic part of Budapest's spa culture.

Day 9: Culture, Shopping, and Nightlife

Great Market Hall

  • Dohány Street Synagogue : The largest synagogue in Europe and the second-largest in the world, this is a testament to Budapest's rich Jewish heritage.
  • Ruin Bars : As the evening sets, explore Budapest's unique nightlife scene by hopping between its famous ruin bars, abandoned buildings turned into hip bars and clubs.

Eating in Budapest

  • Breakfast : Enjoy a hearty Hungarian breakfast often consisting of fresh bread, cold cuts, cheeses, and boiled eggs.
  • Local Delicacies : Indulge in goulash soup, chicken paprikash, and pörkölt. For dessert, try the dobos torte or the creamy somlói galuska.
  • Dining : The Jewish Quarter in Pest offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Hungarian to trendy global cuisines.

Bonus Tip : Consider taking a cheap Danube River Cruise . It’s especially magical in the evening when landmarks like the Buda Castle, Parliament, and bridges are illuminated.

Budapest, often dubbed as the "Paris of the East," is a city that comes alive with its history, culture, and infectious energy. Whether you're soaking in thermal baths, admiring the Danube's views, or relishing its culinary delights, Budapest promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

When exploring Central Europe's iconic cities of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, it's worth considering a few day trips to the surrounding areas. These excursions provide a chance to experience the rich landscapes, historical sites, and unique cultures outside the bustling urban centers.

From Prague:

Karlštejn Castle

  • Český Krumlov : A UNESCO World Heritage site, this picturesque town features a stunning castle, winding streets, and Baroque theaters. The Vltava River meanders through, offering opportunities for rafting.
  • Karlštejn Castle : Just a short train ride from Prague, this medieval fortress was built by Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV and holds a collection of holy relics and crown jewels.

From Vienna:

Bratislava, Slovakia

  • Wachau Valley : Renowned for its wine, picturesque landscapes, and historic architecture, the Wachau Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Consider a Danube River cruise or bike tour for a delightful experience.
  • Graz : Austria's second-largest city offers a mix of new and old, with a well-preserved old town, innovative art museums, and the impressive Schlossberg—a hill with clock tower and fortress remains.

From Budapest:

Lake Balaton

  • Szentendre : A quaint town known for its museums (like the Marzipan Museum and the Open-Air Ethnographic Museum), art galleries, and Serbian Orthodox churches. Its cobbled streets and Mediterranean vibes make for a relaxed trip.
  • Lake Balaton : Often called the "Hungarian Sea", Lake Balaton is Central Europe's largest freshwater lake. The town of Tihany, with its famous Benedictine Abbey, offers panoramic views of the lake.

While the primary cities of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest each pack a wealth of experiences, these day trips will further enrich your Central European journey, offering a blend of nature, culture, and history. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or education, there's a destination awaiting a short distance from each major city.

Central Europe, with its meld of history, culture, and scenic beauty, is truly a traveler's delight. The cities of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, each brimming with its own unique charm, present a harmonious blend of past and present. From Prague's fairy-tale allure to Vienna's imperial grandeur and Budapest's Danube-draped elegance, every step in this region promises an encounter with awe-inspiring architecture, compelling stories, and vibrant local life.

But beyond the well-trodden paths of these urban centers lie the equally enchanting day-trip destinations. Whether it's the bone-adorned chapels of Kutná Hora, the rolling vineyards of the Wachau Valley, or the serene waters of Lake Balaton, these places further weave the intricate tapestry of Central Europe's diverse landscapes and cultures.

In embarking on this journey, travelers don't merely visit destinations; they step into living narratives, each chapter revealing a new facet of the region's rich tapestry. With every bridge crossed, every palace explored, and every local delicacy savored, one not only discovers the heart of Central Europe but also often finds themselves leaving a piece of their own heart behind.

In essence, Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, along with their surrounding treasures, are not just places on a map. They are timeless experiences, waiting to be lived, cherished, and revisited, time and again.

Nighttime or Daytime Sightseeing Cruise: Discover Budapest in a New Light

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From Prague to Budapest: 5 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Diana Bocco Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Right on the banks of the Danube river, Budapest is naturally beautiful and brimming with stunning neo-Gothic architecture. Although Prague and Budapest are too far from each other for a quick day trip, Hungary's capital can be a great weekend escape. Luckily for travelers, there are several ways of getting from one city to the other.

More laid-back than Prague but still buzzing with cafés, a thriving cultural scene and plenty of things to see and do, Budapest has much to offer visitors, regardless of the season. Whether you're visiting to see the Roman ruins, the thermal baths, or the massive Baroque Buda Castle, here's our list of the best ways to get from Prague to Budapest:

On This Page:

  • From Prague to Budapest by Train
  • From Prague to Budapest by Bus
  • From Prague to Budapest by Plane
  • From Prague to Budapest by Private Transfer
  • From Prague to Budapest by Car

1. From Prague to Budapest by Train

Train traveling through the Hungarian woods in the fall

Highlights: Efficient convenience with enchanting railway views

The most picturesque way to travel from Prague to Budapest is definitely on the train. Along the way, you'll see beautiful rolling hills, views of the Visegrád castle, and peeks of the Danube river and the North Hungarian Mountains in the background, as the train rolls alongside them.

There's also a certain magic to traveling on a train between two ancient cities-especially as the train journey between Prague and Budapest is both comfortable and affordable. You'll have plenty of options for travel on this route too, including time of day, sleeper cabins or daytime trains , and first- or second-class seats-and all these options affect price.

Trains depart from Praha hlavní nádraží station and take under seven hours to get to the Budapest Keleti railway station. Once you get to Budapest, you can hop on the metro to get to the city center in just a few minutes-or walk alongside the Danube river and reach the heart of Budapest in about 40 minutes.

The cheapest train option is a daytime 2 nd class seat, which offers comfortable traveling in open carriages or small cabins. First-class seats in daytime trains are more spacious but not necessarily any more luxurious.

For more comfort and a touch of luxury, consider a sleeper train. A 2 nd class ticket allows you to share a cabin with fellow passengers or get a couchette in an open carriage, or you can buy a first-class ticket and get your own private single-sleeper (and private toilet). The prices are much higher if you buy a ticket on the day you're traveling, so get your ticket in advance through the Czech Railway website if possible.

Both daytime and sleeper trains are modern, air-conditioned, and have Wi-Fi and a restaurant car offering inexpensive snacks and meals. If you're traveling in first class, you also get complimentary bottled water, power sockets in every seat, more legroom, and even the option of solo seats.

2. From Prague to Budapest by Bus

Bridge over the Danube River into Budapest

Highlights: Budget-friendly comfort with numerous departure time options

Buses are the best option if cost is a concern , and you want ample choice of departure times. While the trip is long at around seven hours, the buses are comfortable and come equipped with free onboard Wi-Fi, free drinks, snacks for sale, AC, and onboard entertainment.

Buses from Regio Jet and Flixbus leave from Florenc central bus station throughout the day, with the first one setting off as early as 2:30am, and the last night bus departing at midnight.

Because the journey takes so long, overnight buses are often the most convenient option-you can sleep along the way and arrive in Budapest in the early morning ready to explore. For example, if you take an 11pm bus, you'll get to Budapest at around 6:15am the next day, just on time for breakfast and an early start exploring the city.

Another good option is the early morning bus, which leaves Prague before 6am and gets to Budapest around noon.

3. From Prague to Budapest by Plane

Aerial view of Budapest

Highlights: Fast and direct allowing ample time to sightsee in Budapest

Low-cost airline Ryanair covers this route, and you can get tickets from them for extremely low rates one way on the cheapest months (July and August are particularly cheap), as long as you buy well in advance. Keep in mind that budget airlines only allow one small carry-on bag for free and don't offer any extras (no free drinks or snacks, no onboard entertainment). However, the flight is only 90 minutes long, so you likely won't miss any of these extras too much.

For a little more comfort, national Czech Airlines also flies to Budapest twice a day, but expect to pay double the price or more for a ticket. You'll get a little more legroom, a bigger luggage allowance, and a nicer overall experience from them.

Once in Budapest, you can get to the city center on the 100E bus, which runs every 20 minutes and takes around 35 minutes to reach the city center.

4. From Prague to Budapest by Private Transfer

Hungarian Parliament Building, Budapest

Highlights: Stress-free and flexible chauffeured service

If you're looking for a comfortable journey plus the flexibility of door-to-door service, a Budapest Private Transfer from Prague is your best bet. With a private transfer, you get picked up from your hotel at any time of the day or night by a private air-conditioned minivan with a professional driver behind the wheel.

The car or van will then get you to your hotel or desired location in Budapest in about six hours , with the option of stopping along the way for a quick meal or to stretch your legs. All costs are included, and there's space to comfortably carry your luggage, so you can just relax and enjoy the views along the way.

5. From Prague to Budapest by Car

Széchenyi Chain Bridge in Budapest

Highlights: Self-directed itinerary with many sightseeing or stop-over options

If you're up for a road trip, the drive from Prague to Budapest is as scenic as they get. Separated by at least 525 kilometers (550 kilometers if you choose the scenic option), the trip will take you at least five hours if you choose the fast highway but a little over six hours if you go the scenic way.

The scenic route cuts through the UNESCO-listed town of Tabor, passes right by historical Ceske Budejovice (the short detour is well worth it), and takes you through Vienna . Unless you're in a rush, this is a great place to spend a night, so you can explore the city's many attractions, try some traditional Sachertorte Austrian cake, and pick up some souvenirs. From Vienna, it's an additional two and a half hours to reach Budapest the next morning.

You'll need a highway vignette to drive in the Czech Republic and another one for Hungary. These are usually available at gas stations - as you approach the border with Hungary, gas stations on the Czech Republic side will sell you the vignette for Hungary. In both countries, vignettes are available for 10 or 30 days. It's cheaper to buy a 30-day one than two 10-day ones, so plan accordingly based on how long your trip is.

When renting a car in Prague (available at the airport or the city center via companies such as Rent Plus ), don't forget to mention you're crossing the border, as extra fees might apply for international driving. Also, keep in mind that dropping off your car in Budapest can result in a hefty surcharge - driving tends to be a better option if you're returning to Prague after.

All in all, driving is great if you're up for a little bit of adventure and beautiful stops along the way, but overall, it's cheaper and more convenient to take the train.

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Exploring Budapest : For the can't-miss sites in Budapest and the most exciting things to do (including some unexpected ones) check out our list of the top-rated tourist attractions in Budapest .

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Night train is a great option, and probably the best - that way you will save on a hotel room for the night, and you won't miss out on any sightseeing time. The night train takes longer than the day train, as it is parked up for a few hours in the night. This is so you don't arrive in the middle of the night.

All you need to know is in here: https://www.seat61.com/trains-and-routes/prague-to-budapest-by-train.htm

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Budapest   Travel Guide

prague budapest trip

Courtesy of Tanatat pongphibool ,thailand | Getty Images

prague budapest trip

Why Go To Budapest

Welcome to Budapest. To put it simply, if you haven't been here, it's time you make plans to do so. The city appeals to many: You can step out of a thermal bath  and right into a nightclub (and then back into the bath). In a city that dates back to the Old Stone Age, visiting history buffs can take their pick between Roman, neo-Gothic, Renaissance and Ottoman architecture at sites like Buda Castle and Fisherman's Bastion .

Budapest is more than just the political capital of Hungary – it's also the commercial and cultural nexus. From its multifaceted restaurant scene to its rich Jewish heritage, culture extends from nearly every inch of the Pearl of Danube. Split by the Danube River and composed of three main regions – Pest, Buda and Óbuda – Budapest meshes modern conveniences with ancient architecture and grassy parks. Whether you're searching for cuisine, shopping or museums, a multitude of all await you in Budapest. And prices are fair enough that you won't have to choose – you can indulge in them all. 

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  • # 2 in Best Eastern Europe Travel Spots
  • # 4 in Best Cheap European Vacations for 2023-2024
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  • # 1 in Four Seasons Gresham Palace
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Four Seasons Gresham Palace

Best Things to Do in Budapest

  • # 1 in Fisherman's Bastion (Halászbástya)
  • # 2 in Danube River
  • # 3 in Castle Hill (Várhegy)

prague budapest trip

Popular Tours

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Budapest Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Budapest are from March to May and September through November. These shoulder seasons are when the weather is idyllic and the city isn't overcrowded with tourists. However, the climate is always relatively mild, with temperatures rarely exceeding bearable levels. July and August experience average highs in the upper 70s, while average lows in January rest in the mid-20s. Tourists flood the city in summer, despite it being the hottest and wettest of time of year.

Weather in Budapest

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Bring your swimsuit The thermal baths are open year-round and are likely to be one of the highlights of your trip.

Footwear is crucial Walking is a great way to experience Budapest. Bring your most comfortable shoes but also pack some fashionable kicks if you plan on tackling the nightclubs.

Plan ahead Budapest hotels are affordable, but they fill up quickly. Make reservations well in advance.

How to Save Money in Budapest

Get acquainted with public transport Budapest has a number of cheap, easy mass transit options, starting with its excellent metro service.

Buy a Budapest Card Found online here or at most hotels , this card will save you a bundle on public transportation and top attractions around the city.

Rent an apartment For longer stays, consider renting an apartment. It's a more cost-effective option, especially for those traveling in groups.

Culture & Customs

Budapest has a rich heritage and tons of culture to go along with it. From sophisticated events, such as operas and symphonies, to a trendy nightlife scene to the historic Castle Hill region, the city offers something for everyone. District VII's Elizabeth Town neighborhood is a must-visit for culture hounds, as it's where the majority of Budapest's Jewish residents reside. Elizabeth Town also hosts the city's annual Jewish Cultural Festival.

Many Budapest residents speak English (especially the younger generation), so you shouldn't have trouble communicating during your visit. Hungarian has a reputation for being an extremely difficult language for English speakers to master, but a little effort can go a long way – throw in a "köszönöm" (or thank you, pronounced "kur-sur-nurm") when you can.

The forint is the currency of Hungary. One forint equals approximately $0.004, or less than one American penny. Exchange rates tend to be advantageous for Americans, though the rate may fluctuate, so it's best to check the current exchange rate before you go. ATMs are readily available, especially in the city center, and credit cards are also widely used in the central areas of Budapest.

Although tipping isn't expected here like it is in the U.S., it is more common to leave tips for waiters, taxi drivers and other service workers in Hungary than in other countries in Europe. Tipping 100 to 400 forints (or $0.50 to $1.50) is the norm at thermal baths , while it is customary to give each  hotel employee 200 to 500 forints ($1 to $2). Ten percent of your fare or bill is fine to leave for taxi drivers and restaurant waitstaff, though 15 percent for fine dining establishments will be well-received. Make sure a service charge hasn't already been added to your dining bill.

What to Eat

Dining in Budapest is all about diversity. Have a traditional Hungarian dish for breakfast, American for lunch and authentic Italian for dinner. Experience upscale European fare at traveler favorites like Caviar & Bull and Arany Kaviar Restaurant . For cheaper but just as tasty eats, visitors recommend sitting for a meal at Italian-focused Comme Chez Soi or Greek-inspired Mazi . Fast casual options like Hoppacska and  Bors GasztroBar also earn rave reviews from diners.

Two staples of the Hungarian dining experience are guly á s  (or goulash, a paprika-flavored soup loaded with meat and potatoes) and paprik á s csirke  (chicken in a creamy paprika sauce). And you can't really go wrong with either. Street food is also popular here. You'll find items like lángos  (a large piece of fried dough topped with sour cream and cheese), r á ntott sajt  (fried cheese) and kürtoskalács  (or chimney cake, a hollow bread often rolled in cinnamon, nuts or cocoa) sold at markets and food courts throughout the city. And wine lovers, rejoice: Hungary has a proud wine tradition dating centuries back. Try the Egri Bikavér (Bull's Blood) if you're looking for a full red.

While Budapest is a relatively safe big city, you should still exercise general safety precautions, especially in light of recent terrorist activity throughout Europe. Make sure to take extra care on public transportation and at major tourist attractions , where pickpockets are more prevalent. Also, do not walk alone at night and avoid political rallies and demonstrations. For additional safety tips, visit the U.S. State Department's website .

Getting Around Budapest

The best ways to get around Budapest are on foot and by public transit. The city's neighborhoods are walkable, and you'll be able to admire the historic architecture as you stroll. But when it comes to getting across town, rely on Budapest's extensive public transportation system. However, if you're making your way home after a night out, avoid getting lost by simply taking a taxi or an Uber.

The city is serviced by the Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), which is located roughly 15 miles southeast of downtown. Taxis are the quickest way to get from the airport to your hotel , but they are also the most expensive – expect to pay about 6,500 forints (about $25) for a ride. Airport miniBUD shuttle service is cheaper but isn't as efficient. The most affordable (and most time-consuming mode of transportation) from the airport to the city is the 200E bus, which drops passengers off at the Kobánya-Kispest metro station and costs 350 forints (less than $1.50) per person. There's also the direct (but pricier) 100E bus. Another popular option is the train. Many of them make the three-hour connection through Vienna .  

Entry & Exit Requirements

Americans are required to have passports valid for at least three months beyond their planned date of departure, though six months validity is recommended. One blank passport page is needed for each stamp. Visas aren't necessary for stays lasting less than 90 days. Visit the U.S. State Department's website for the latest information about Hungarian entry and exit requirements.

Budapest is a modern city drenched in history and culture.

Explore More of Budapest

Danube River

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