🚆 Central Europe by Train: Prague–Vienna–Budapest
Three imperial capitals within train distance of each other; architecture, coffee culture and river views.
Visa status for this route
The itinerary below is the same for everyone. What changes is how your passport enters these countries.
Pick your passport to see your visa statusThe route, night by night (12 nights)
- 01
Prague (Czechia)
4 nightsCharles Bridge, the castle, the astronomical clock, cheap beer. A fairy-tale start.
- 02
Vienna (Austria)
4 nightsSchönbrunn, coffee houses, the opera, museums. The most expensive stop.
- 03
Budapest (Hungary)
4 nightsThermal baths (Széchenyi), ruin bars, Danube views. The best price/pleasure balance.
Best season
April–June, September–October; December (Christmas markets)
Getting around
Intercity trains (ÖBB/RegioJet), comfortable 4-5 hour connections. Tickets via Omio/Trainline.
What to know before you go
- —If your passport needs a Schengen visa, plan it at least 6 weeks ahead due to appointment demand.
- —Train tickets are half price when bought early; RegioJet Prague–Vienna is cheap and comfortable.
- —Bring a towel and slippers to the Budapest baths; online tickets skip the queue.
Important: this content is general information
Visa rules can change without notice. Always confirm your situation with an official source before you travel: Also check with the embassy or consulate of your destination country in your own country. The information on this page is guidance, not legal advice.