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Three capitals. Three countries. One unforgettable week.
The Prague–Vienna–Budapest route isn’t just a train journey—it’s a time machine through the heart of the former Habsburg Empire. You’ll wander Gothic spires in Prague, sip coffee in Viennese palaces, and soak in thermal baths beneath the Hungarian sky. And the best part? The entire route takes just 6-7 hours of actual train travel, leaving you maximum time to explore.
This is, hands down, one of the best beginner train routes in Europe. The connections are easy, the trains are comfortable, English is widely spoken, and the cities deliver that classic European magic Americans dream about.
Why This Route?
Each stop brings something completely different to the table:
- Prague: Medieval charm, world-famous beer culture, fairytale architecture, and jaw-dropping value for money
- Vienna: Imperial grandeur, legendary coffee houses, classical music heritage, and the most elegant pastries you’ll ever taste
- Budapest: Thermal bath tradition, dramatic riverside views, ruin bars, and a vibrant energy that feels both old-world and edgy
Together, they create a perfect trifecta of Central European culture—without the crowds of Paris or Rome.
How Much Time Do You Need?
Recommended: 7-10 days
This itinerary is built for 7 days (2-3 nights per city), but if you can stretch to 10 days, you’ll have breathing room for day trips, slower mornings, and deeper exploration.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Prague: Days 1-3 (2 nights)
- Vienna: Days 3-5 (2 nights)
- Budapest: Days 5-7 (2 nights)
You can easily extend any stop if a city captures your heart.
Estimated Budget
Excluding international flights, here’s what to expect per person:
| Category | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (6 nights) | $300–$400 | $500–$700 | $800–$1,200 |
| Train tickets (all routes) | $50–$80 | $80–$120 | $120–$180 |
| Food & drinks | $200–$300 | $350–$500 | $500–$700 |
| Activities & entrance fees | $80–$120 | $150–$250 | $250–$400 |
| Total per person | $630–$900 | $1,080–$1,570 | $1,670–$2,480 |
The bottom line: You can do this route comfortably for $800–$1,200 per person with smart planning. Prague and Budapest are significantly cheaper than Western Europe—your dollar stretches further here.
The Route Overview
Let’s visualize your journey:
🇨🇿 PRAGUE (Start)
↓
~4 hours by train
↓
🇦🇹 VIENNA
↓
~2.5 hours by train
↓
🇭🇺 BUDAPEST (End)
Total train time: Approximately 6.5 hours
That’s less time than driving from New York to Boston and back. You’ll spend far more time exploring than traveling.
Route at a Glance
| Leg | Distance | Duration | Operators | Early Booking Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prague → Vienna | 250 miles | ~4 hours | ÖBB Railjet, České dráhy | €19–€50 |
| Vienna → Budapest | 155 miles | ~2.5 hours | ÖBB Railjet, MÁV | €15–€40 |
Pro tip: Book both train legs 2-4 weeks in advance for the best prices. The savings can be significant.
Stop 1: Prague, Czech Republic (Days 1-3)
Why Prague Steals Hearts
Prague feels like a fairytale someone forgot to close. Gothic spires pierce the sky. Cobblestone streets wind past centuries-old taverns. The Vltava River curves through the city like a silver ribbon, reflecting the glow of a thousand lights at dusk.
And unlike some European capitals, Prague hasn’t been sanitized for tourists. There’s a gritty, authentic edge beneath the beauty—especially once you venture beyond the Old Town.
Oh, and the beer? It’s better than the water. (Okay, not literally. But Czech pilsners are legendary, and they cost less than bottled water in most pubs.)
Top Highlights
Charles Bridge (Karlův most)
The iconic 14th-century stone bridge lined with Baroque statues. Come at sunrise to avoid crowds and catch magical light. Cross from Old Town to Lesser Town (Malá Strana) and feel the history under your feet.
Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí)
The heart of Prague. Grab a spot near the Astronomical Clock (Orloj) to watch the hourly show—mechanical apostles parade past while tourists crane their necks. Touristy? Yes. Worth it? Also yes.
Prague Castle (Pražský hrad)
One of the largest castle complexes in the world. Explore St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the charming Golden Lane. Budget 3-4 hours minimum.
Lesser Town & Petřín Hill
Cross the Charles Bridge and wander the quieter streets of Malá Strana. Climb Petřín Hill for panoramic views (or take the funicular if your legs are tired).
Beer Culture
Prague has more beer per capita than anywhere on Earth. Skip the tourist traps and find a neighborhood hospoda (pub). Try Pilsner Urquell, Staropramen, or something from a local microbrewery. Expect to pay $2–$4 for a pint.
Where to Stay
Best neighborhoods for first-timers:
- Old Town (Staré Město): Walking distance to everything, but pricier and touristy
- Vinohrady: Hip, local, great restaurants, 10-minute tram ride to center (my recommendation)
- Žižkov: Edgy and affordable, lots of bars, slightly grittier
Budget: $40–$70/night for a decent hotel or Airbnb
Mid-range: $80–$150/night for boutique hotels with character
Train Station Know-How
Your departure point for Vienna: Praha hlavní nádraží (Prague Main Station)
This grand station sits right in the city center, walkable from Old Town or a short Metro ride away. It’s been modernized inside but retains its historic Art Nouveau exterior.
Tips for the station:
- Arrivals and departures on lower and upper levels—follow signs
- Ticket offices on the main concourse (but book online to save money)
- Restaurants and shops inside, but nothing special—eat in town before departing
- Metro connection: Line C (red line), station “Hlavní nádraží”
Sample Prague Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive, settle in, evening walk through Old Town Square, dinner at a traditional Czech restaurant (try svíčková—beef in cream sauce)
Day 2: Prague Castle complex in the morning, lunch in Malá Strana, afternoon wandering the Charles Bridge and Josefov (Jewish Quarter)
Day 3 (morning): Petřín Hill or revisit a favorite spot, then head to the train station for your Vienna departure
The Journey: Prague to Vienna
Train Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Route | Prague → Vienna |
| Duration | Approximately 4 hours |
| Operators | ÖBB (Austrian) Railjet or České dráhy (Czech Railways) |
| Frequency | Trains every 1-2 hours |
| Stations | Praha hlavní nádraží → Wien Hauptbahnhof |
| Price range | €19–€50 (early booking saves money) |
Booking Your Ticket
Best options:
- ÖBB (oebb.at): Austrian Railways’ website is user-friendly and often has the best prices. Their “Sparschiene” discount fares can be as low as €19.
- České dráhy (cd.cz): Czech Railways sometimes offers competitive prices, especially for trains they operate.
- Trainline or Omio: Easy English interface, slight booking fee, but convenient for comparing options.
Pro tip: ÖBB releases cheap “Sparschiene” fares about 60 days before travel. Set a reminder and book early—these prices sell out fast.
What to Expect on Board
The Railjet is Austria’s flagship high-speed train, and it’s a pleasure to ride:
- Comfort: Spacious seats, generous legroom, power outlets at every seat
- WiFi: Usually available (free), though quality varies through rural areas
- Food: Dining car with coffee, snacks, and meals (or bring your own picnic)
- Classes: Standard class is perfectly comfortable; first class adds more space and quieter cars
The Scenery
This isn’t the most dramatic scenery in Europe, but it’s pleasant:
- Rolling Bohemian countryside as you leave Prague
- Small Czech villages and farmland
- The landscape flattens as you enter Austria
- Brief stop in Břeclav (Czech-Austrian border, no passport control needed—thank you, Schengen)
- Austrian vineyards as you approach Vienna
Suggested activity: Use the first hour to look out the window, then settle into a book, catch up on journaling, or nap. You’ll arrive refreshed.
Stop 2: Vienna, Austria (Days 3-5)
Why Vienna Charms Everyone
Vienna is elegance personified. This is the city of Mozart and Beethoven, Freud and Klimt, imperial palaces and impossibly perfect pastries. Every corner feels curated, every café has a story, and the Viennese themselves have elevated coffee-drinking to an art form.
But Vienna isn’t stuffy. There’s a thriving modern scene beneath the classical veneer—world-class museums, innovative restaurants, and a surprisingly fun nightlife.
And unlike Prague or Budapest, Vienna uses the euro—one less currency to think about.
Top Highlights
Schönbrunn Palace
The summer residence of the Habsburgs, and Austria’s most-visited attraction. Tour the ornate state rooms, wander the gardens, and climb the Gloriette for city views. Budget half a day.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom)
The Gothic masterpiece at Vienna’s heart. Climb the south tower (343 steps!) for rooftop views over the city.
The Ringstrasse
Vienna’s grand boulevard encircles the historic center. Walk or take tram #1 or #2 past the Opera House, Parliament, City Hall, and more—it’s like an open-air architecture museum.
Belvedere Palace
Two Baroque palaces with world-class art collections, including Klimt’s famous “The Kiss.” The gardens between the upper and lower palaces are free and gorgeous.
Coffee House Culture
Vienna practically invented the coffeehouse. Sit for hours, read newspapers on wooden rods, order a Melange (similar to cappuccino), and pair it with Sachertorte (chocolate cake). Try Café Central, Café Sperl, or Café Hawelka for the authentic experience.
Naschmarkt
Vienna’s beloved outdoor market. Sample local cheese, olives, Turkish delights, and more. Great for lunch.
Where to Stay
Best neighborhoods for first-timers:
- Innere Stadt (1st District): The historic center. Walking distance to everything, but most expensive
- Neubau (7th District): Trendy, artsy, great restaurants, 15-minute walk to center (my pick)
- Wieden (4th District): Near Belvedere, local feel, good value
Budget: $80–$120/night
Mid-range: $150–$250/night
Note: Vienna is noticeably pricier than Prague or Budapest.
Train Station Know-How
You’ll arrive and depart from: Wien Hauptbahnhof (Vienna Main Station)
This is a modern, sleek station that opened in 2015. It’s basically a shopping mall with trains.
Tips for the station:
- Very easy to navigate with excellent English signage
- Multiple levels—departures are clearly marked
- Lots of food options, from quick coffee to sit-down restaurants
- Direct U-Bahn (Metro) connection: Line U1 (red line)
- About 15-20 minutes to the city center by Metro or taxi
Sample Vienna Itinerary
Day 3 (afternoon): Arrive from Prague, check in, evening stroll along the Ringstrasse, dinner near Stephansplatz
Day 4: Morning at Schönbrunn Palace, afternoon at Belvedere or MuseumsQuartier, evening at a traditional Viennese restaurant (try Wiener Schnitzel)
Day 5 (morning): Coffee house culture—linger over breakfast at a classic café, then head to the station for Budapest
The Journey: Vienna to Budapest
Train Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Route | Vienna → Budapest |
| Duration | Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Operators | ÖBB Railjet or MÁV (Hungarian Railways) |
| Frequency | Trains every 1-2 hours |
| Stations | Wien Hauptbahnhof → Budapest Keleti |
| Price range | €15–€40 |
Booking Your Ticket
Same approach as before:
- ÖBB (oebb.at): Excellent for Sparschiene discount fares
- MÁV (mavcsoport.hu): Hungarian Railways sometimes has deals, but the website is less user-friendly
- Trainline/Omio: Easy comparison shopping
Scenic Tip: Sit on the Left Side
As you approach Hungary and the train follows the Danube River, the left side of the train (facing forward) offers better views of the landscape. You’ll catch glimpses of the river, Hungarian villages, and eventually the dramatic entrance into Budapest.
What to Expect on Board
Similar Railjet comfort to the Prague-Vienna leg:
- Spacious seating with power outlets
- WiFi available (quality varies)
- Dining car for refreshments
- Smooth, quiet ride
Border note: You’re still in the Schengen zone, so no passport control. The train simply crosses from Austria into Hungary without stopping.
Stop 3: Budapest, Hungary (Days 5-7)
Why Budapest is Unforgettable
Budapest is two cities in one—literally. Buda, the hilly historic side, and Pest, the flat, bustling modern side, are divided by the Danube and connected by stunning bridges. Together, they create one of Europe’s most dramatic urban landscapes.
This is the city of thermal baths, where soaking in 100-year-old pools is a way of life. It’s the city of ruin bars, built in abandoned buildings and dripping with chaotic charm. And it’s absurdly affordable—your dollar goes further here than almost anywhere in Western Europe.
Budapest feels grittier and more raw than Vienna, more rebellious than Prague. That’s part of its magic.
Top Highlights
Hungarian Parliament Building
One of the most impressive buildings in Europe, period. Take the guided tour of the interior, or simply admire it from across the river (especially beautiful lit up at night).
Fisherman’s Bastion (Halászbástya)
This fairy-tale terrace on Castle Hill offers the best panoramic views of the city. Come early morning or at sunset to dodge the crowds.
Buda Castle
The historic royal palace on Castle Hill. Explore the Hungarian National Gallery inside, or just wander the grounds and soak in the views.
Thermal Baths
Budapest sits on top of natural hot springs, and the city has built an entire culture around public bathing. The must-try experience:
- Széchenyi Baths: Massive, iconic, yellow Neo-Baroque complex in City Park. Outdoor pools where you can soak while snow falls (in winter)
- Gellért Baths: Beautiful Art Nouveau interior, more elegant vibe
- Rudas Baths: Ottoman-era baths, more local, rooftop pool with views
Ruin Bars
Budapest’s legendary nightlife invention. Abandoned buildings transformed into eccentric, multi-room bars filled with mismatched furniture, street art, and cheap drinks. Szimpla Kert is the original and most famous—chaotic, crowded, and totally worth experiencing.
The Danube at Night
Walk across the Chain Bridge after dark, or take a sunset river cruise. The Parliament, Buda Castle, and bridges all lit up is genuinely breathtaking.
Where to Stay
Best neighborhoods for first-timers:
- District VII (Jewish Quarter): Walkable to everything, ruin bars, restaurants, great energy (my recommendation)
- District V (Belváros): Central and upscale, near Parliament and the river
- Buda side (District I): Quieter, near Castle Hill, more residential
Budget: $50–$80/night
Mid-range: $90–$150/night
Budapest is excellent value for accommodation.
Train Station Know-How
You’ll arrive at: Budapest Keleti pályaudvar (Budapest Keleti Station)
This station is an experience itself. Built in 1884, it looks like something from a Harry Potter film—grand, ornate, and slightly crumbling. The architecture alone is worth a moment of appreciation.
Tips for the station:
- “Keleti” means “Eastern” in Hungarian
- Located slightly east of the city center
- Excellent Metro connection: Line M2 (red line) directly into the center (5-10 minutes to Deák Ferenc tér, the main hub)
- The station area can feel a bit run-down—don’t linger outside at night
- Use ATMs inside to withdraw Hungarian Forints
Note: Budapest has three main stations (Keleti, Nyugati, Déli). Trains from Vienna almost always arrive at Keleti, but double-check your ticket.
Sample Budapest Itinerary
Day 5 (afternoon): Arrive from Vienna, check in, evening walk along the Danube, dinner in the Jewish Quarter
Day 6: Morning at Castle Hill (Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church), afternoon thermal bath session at Széchenyi, evening exploring ruin bars
Day 7: Parliament tour (book ahead), wander Pest’s streets, Great Market Hall for souvenirs, final Hungarian meal (goulash, lángos, or chimney cake)
Practical Tips for This Route
Currency: Three Countries, Three Currencies
This catches many Americans off guard. The Imperial Route passes through three different currency zones:
| Country | Currency | Symbol | Roughly Equivalent To |
|---|---|---|---|
| Czech Republic | Czech Koruna | CZK | ~$1 = 23 CZK |
| Austria | Euro | € | ~$1 = €0.92 |
| Hungary | Hungarian Forint | HUF | ~$1 = 360 HUF |
Practical advice:
- Don’t exchange at airports or train stations—rates are terrible
- Use ATMs to withdraw local currency in each country (check for no-foreign-transaction-fee cards before you travel)
- Cards are widely accepted in all three cities, especially in restaurants, shops, and tourist areas
- Carry some cash for smaller purchases, markets, and tips
- Spend down your currency before leaving each country—you won’t use Czech Korunas or Hungarian Forints anywhere else
Pro tip: Get a travel-friendly debit card (like Charles Schwab or a credit union card with no ATM fees) to save on withdrawal charges.
Best Time to Visit
Ideal months: May, June, September
- Pleasant weather (60s–70s°F / 15–25°C)
- Fewer crowds than peak summer
- Shoulder-season prices on hotels
- Outdoor cafés and beer gardens are open
July and August:
- Peak tourist season—expect crowds at major attractions
- Can be hot (80s–90s°F), especially in Budapest
- Higher prices, busier trains
October–November:
- Fall foliage is beautiful
- Cooler temperatures, fewer tourists
- Some outdoor attractions have reduced hours
December:
- Christmas markets transform all three cities
- Cold, but magical atmosphere
- Book accommodation early—markets draw big crowds
Language Tips
Good news: English is widely spoken in all three cities, especially among younger people, in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas.
Even better: A few basic phrases go a long way:
| English | Czech | German (Vienna) | Hungarian |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hello | Dobrý den | Grüß Gott | Szia |
| Thank you | Děkuji | Danke | Köszönöm |
| Please | Prosím | Bitte | Kérem |
| Beer | Pivo | Bier | Sör |
| Cheers! | Na zdraví! | Prost! | Egészségedre! |
Locals appreciate any effort, even if it’s imperfect.
Safety
All three cities are very safe for tourists. Use normal big-city precautions:
- Watch for pickpockets in crowded tourist areas (Charles Bridge, metro stations)
- Keep valuables in front pockets or a money belt
- Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering help you didn’t ask for
- Stick to well-lit areas at night
Scams to watch for:
- Currency exchange tricks (always know the current rate)
- Overpriced restaurants with no prices on the menu (always ask before ordering)
- Taxi rip-offs (use Uber/Bolt or agree on a price beforehand)
Packing Essentials for This Route
- Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll cover 10+ miles per day on cobblestones
- Layers: Weather changes; mornings can be cool even in summer
- Swimsuit: For Budapest thermal baths (you can rent towels there)
- Power adapter: European Type C/F plugs (same throughout all three countries)
- Day bag: For carrying water, camera, and souvenirs while exploring
- Portable charger: For phone navigation and photos
Final Thoughts: Why This Route is Perfect for First-Timers
The Prague–Vienna–Budapest corridor delivers everything first-time European train travelers could want:
✅ Easy logistics. Direct trains, no confusing transfers, English widely spoken.
✅ Maximum variety. Three distinct cultures, cuisines, and atmospheres in one week.
✅ Incredible value. Two of the three cities are significantly cheaper than Western Europe.
✅ Manageable distances. More time exploring, less time in transit.
✅ Stunning beauty. Gothic spires, imperial palaces, riverside panoramas—your camera will thank you.
✅ Beginner-friendly. Modern trains, well-organized stations, welcoming locals.
Whether you’re a history nerd, a foodie, a nightlife enthusiast, or just someone who wants to experience classic European charm without the Paris price tag—this route has you covered.
Book your trains, pack your bags, and prepare for the trip of a lifetime.
Na zdraví, Prost, Egészségedre—cheers to your Imperial Route adventure!