Rivers and Revelries in the Cultural Capitals of Central Europe - Berlin, Prague & Budapest

10 Day Tour of Berlin, Prague and Budapest

Destinations on this trip: Berlin,Prague,Budapest

Overview
Trip Map
Itinerary
Inclusions
Reviews

Vltava River in Prague at dusk with a view of the castle and Charles Bridge in the background

A boat cruises past the Museum Island on the River Spree in Berlin

A view of the Chain Bridge over the Danube in Budapest with the Hungarian Parliament in the background

How Long Is the Central European Trifecta Trip and What Does It Cost?

Day CruisesExperiencing the Local Scene

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Best time
Jan-Dec
From
$1927 / person (Flights not included)

This 10-day enchanted journey, specially crafted by Go Real Travel, takes you through Berlin, Prague, and Budapest. By day, navigate the heart of Europe's most storied cities with private guided tours revealing monumental sites and architectural marvels. By night, immerse in the vibrant scenes from Berlin's celebrated beer gardens to Prague's picturesque Vltava cruises, and Budapest's luminous journey along the Danube. This exquisite blend of exploration and insight is peppered with day cruises offering unique city perspectives, complemented by our detailed mobile app guidance, ensuring a seamless connection with the local culture.

Visit Checkpoint Charlie and relax on a delightful evening exploring Berlin's dynamic beer culture.
Explore Berlin's vibrant nightlife in the shadow of the former Berlin Wall in Friedrichshain.
See Prague's splendor on a Vltava River cruise and explore cobblestone lanes beneath Prague Castle.
Tour Budapest's Castle Hill, and experience the city's nocturnal lights on a Danube River cruise.
Enjoy the Baroque architecture and meet the locals while soaking in Budapest's famous thermal baths.

Visit Checkpoint Charlie and relax on a delightful evening exploring Berlin's dynamic beer culture.
Explore Berlin's vibrant nightlife in the shadow of the former Berlin Wall in Friedrichshain.
See Prague's splendor on a Vltava River cruise and explore cobblestone lanes beneath Prague Castle.
Tour Budapest's Castle Hill, and experience the city's nocturnal lights on a Danube River cruise.
Enjoy the Baroque architecture and meet the locals while soaking in Budapest's famous thermal baths.

The Brandenburg Gate

Historic Landmarks

The Berlin Wall

Historic Landmarks

Checkpoint Charlie

European History

Prague Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Charles Bridge

Historic Landmarks

Hungarian Parliament

Architecture

National Museum

Museums & Galleries

Central Market

Street Markets

Castle Hill

Castles & Chateaux

Must see sights

The Brandenburg Gate

Historic Landmarks

The Berlin Wall

Historic Landmarks

Checkpoint Charlie

European History

Prague Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Charles Bridge

Historic Landmarks

Hungarian Parliament

Architecture

National Museum

Museums & Galleries

Central Market

Street Markets

Castle Hill

Castles & Chateaux

Starting from

$1927

per person

Not included

Price varies by group size, hotel selection, and travel season.

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Where Does the Central European Trifecta Trip Trip Go?

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Central European Trifecta Trip Timeline

Arrival

3 nights

Berlin

Germany

Train: 4.5h

2 nights

Prague

Czech Republic

Overnight Sleeper Train: 10.5h

3 nights

Budapest

Hungary

Departure

What Does the Central European Trifecta Trip Itinerary Look Like?

Day 1

Arrive Berlin

Day 1

Arrive Berlin

To Be Determined

Airport Transfer

Flying into Berlin you will arrive in the brand new Berlin Brandenburg Airport to the south of the city. Taxis are available at the airport, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience. The cheapest and fastest way to reach central Berlin is by train. The Airport Express train delivers you to Berlin's main station (Hauptbahnhof) in the center of the city, from where you can easily hail a taxi.

Airport Transfer by Taxi or Train

To Be Determined — Airport Transfer

Mid-Day/Afternoon — TV Tower & Old Berlin

The Television Tower and its surroundings in Alexanderplatz are Berlin's main architectural monument to the former East Germany. Despite the high-rent stores and offices that now fill the buildings, you can still detect quite a bit of that old communist character. Somewhat ironically, you'll find the medieval Nikolaiviertel, the oldest residential area of Berlin, just a few steps away. You'll also find nearby the Marienkirche (Berlin's oldest parish church), the displaced Neptune Fountain, the Red Town Hall, statues of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, and the massive Loxx model railway that even non-model train enthusiasts will gasp at.

Television Tower

Soar to the top of this iconic symbol of Berlin in just 40 seconds, and enjoy amazing views from its observation deck.

The 1960s TV Tower (Fernsehturm) is possibly the best surviving example of East Germany’s architectural legacy. In total, it is 1,197 feet tall (368 meters), but you can only go 666 ft to the observation deck, or a bit higher if you have a ticket to the revolving Sphere Restaurant. You ascend in one of two 10-person elevators that take a mere 40 seconds to reach the observation deck.

DDR Museum

Experience life in Communist East Germany in this interactive museum.

This brilliantly evocative and interactive museum helps visitors imagine what life under the Communist East German regime was like. A homage to Ostalgie (nostalgia for East Germany), it offers up memories of the school system, pioneer camps (something like Communist scouts), and the wonderfully clumsy attempts to rival Western clothing and food fashions. It'd all be adorable, if it weren't so oppressive.

Nikolaikirche

Visit the beautifully restored medieval Gothic church which gave the surrounding neighborhood its name.

Dating all the way back to the earliest days of Berlin, this church was probably built just after Berlin was granted town privileges. An unusual feature of its interior is the bright colouring of the vault ribbings: the orange, purple, green and other vivid lines look like a 1960s Pop Art addition, but actually follow a medieval pattern discovered by a 1980s restorer. 

Nikolaiviertel

Escape to Berlin's medieval past in this reconstructed historic district.

The Nikolaiviertel or St. Nicholas Quarter is Berlin's oldest residential area. With its medieval lanes and numerous restaurants and bars, it was a favorite haunt of the artistically-minded in the years before WWII, but that war left it a devastated wasteland. In the 1980's the East German regime attempted a renovation of the neighborhood based on historical models, but the “old Berlin” illusion is not all entirely convincing. The use of East German construction techniques is glaringly obvious in some places, such as prefabricated gables and corrugated concrete panels. As a result, it was scornfully nicknamed “Honecker's Disneyland” after the former East German leader, but today it is a historic curiousity in its own right.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Courtyards of Berlin

With booming 19th-century population growth, nearly every unoccupied space in Berlin was filled by tenement buildings surrounding small courtyards. The Spandauer Vorstadt neighborhood possesses some of Berlin’s most beautiful courtyards, the Hackesche Höfe, as well as other courtyards which better recall the crowded conditions of industrial Berlin. Here you can discover the partially reconstructed New Synagogue, the former site of the Jewish cemetery, and many hidden reminders of a once vibrant community.

Hackesche Höfe

Stop for a drink or go shopping within Berlin’s most beautiful courtyards.

These nine courtyards are classic examples of Art Deco. Built in 1905-1907 to house businesses, flats and places of entertainment, Hackesche Höfe was conceived of as an antidote to the dowdy and overcrowded courtyards of working-class Berlin. They are elaborately decorated with blue mosaic tiles and other artistic finishes, but nevertheless preserve a layout that was highly typical of much of pre-war Berlin.

Haus Schwarzenberg

Explore a traditional Berlin alleyway courtyard which harbours a trio of small museums relating to the Jewish experience during WWII.

The courtyard's crumbling and grafittied facades give visitors a feel for Berlin tenement life during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Among the museums is the fascinating Museum Blindenwerkstatt Otto Wendt (free; open 10am-8pm daily). It is located in the former rooms of a broom and brush factory run by one Otto Wendt, whose employees were mainly deaf, blind and Jewish. He managed to protect his workers from the concentration camps by having the factory declared essential to the war effort.  

New Synagogue

Visit one of the most important legacies of Berlin's pre-Holocaust Jewish community.

The partially reconstructed synagogue was damaged on Kristallnacht, an anti-Jewish Nazi pogrom. It was not completely destroyed thanks to the intervention of the local police chief. Its ultimate destruction was left to Allied bombers and reconstruction didn’t begin until the late 1980s. While large parts remain unreconstructed, it is still possible to visit the interior.

Day 1

Arrive Berlin

To Be Determined:

Airport Transfer

Mid-Day/Afternoon:

TV Tower & Old Berlin

Late Afternoon/Early Evening:

Courtyards of Berlin

Airport Transfer

Overview

Airport Transfer

Overview

Airport Transfer

Overview

Airport Transfer

Overview

Airport Transfer

Overview

Airport Transfer

To Be Determined — Airport Transfer

Mid-Day/Afternoon — TV Tower & Old Berlin

Television Tower

Soar to the top of this iconic symbol of Berlin in just 40 seconds, and enjoy amazing views from its observation deck.

DDR Museum

Experience life in Communist East Germany in this interactive museum.

Nikolaikirche

Visit the beautifully restored medieval Gothic church which gave the surrounding neighborhood its name.

Nikolaiviertel

Escape to Berlin's medieval past in this reconstructed historic district.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Courtyards of Berlin

Hackesche Höfe

Stop for a drink or go shopping within Berlin’s most beautiful courtyards.

Haus Schwarzenberg

Explore a traditional Berlin alleyway courtyard which harbours a trio of small museums relating to the Jewish experience during WWII.

New Synagogue

Visit one of the most important legacies of Berlin's pre-Holocaust Jewish community.

Day 2

Berlin

Day 2

Berlin

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Guided Walking Tour of Berlin

On this 3 hour tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Berlin and help you understand what makes this city so unique. Sites visited will include the boulevard Unter den Linden, the Gendarmenmarkt, Check Point Charlie, remnants of the Berlin Wall, Potsdamer Platz, the Holocaust Memorial, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Reichstag.

Brandenburg Gate

Quadriga. Hey, There's a Word to Know When Learning About this Historic Gate

Reichstag

Make your way to the top of the dome enjoying amazing views and looking down at debating members of the German Parliament below.

Highlights of Berlin Guided Walking Tour

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Brandenburg Gate

Quadriga. Hey, There's a Word to Know When Learning About this Historic Gate

Reichstag

Make your way to the top of the dome enjoying amazing views and looking down at debating members of the German Parliament below.

Highlights of Berlin Guided Walking Tour

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Brandenburg Gate

Quadriga. Hey, There's a Word to Know When Learning About this Historic Gate

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM — Guided Walking Tour of Berlin

Brandenburg Gate

Quadriga. Hey, There's a Word to Know When Learning About this Historic Gate

The Brandenburg Gate was built as a symbol of peace, perverted into a symbol of power by the Nazis, and became a symbol of division during the Cold War. Now, however, it is a symbol of reunification. Completed in 1791, it was topped by the quadriga, a chariot drawn by four horses driven by the goddess of peace. Napoleon seized the quadriga as a spoil of war, but after his defeat, it was returned to the city and met by cheering crowds along the way, transforming the goddess of peace into a goddess of victory, holding a  Germanic cross.

Reichstag

Make your way to the top of the dome enjoying amazing views and looking down at debating members of the German Parliament below.

Officially, the Reichstag is actually the Bundestag, which means the federal parliament. The Reichstag was reduced to a ruined shell by arson in 1933 and by World War II fighting, but it was rebuilt with a striking egg-shaped glass dome. Visitors are given a free audio guide that discusses the building’s history and architecture, while also orientating you to the sites of Berlin. It is an excellent introduction to the city. Note that it is usually necessary to book well in advance!

Mid-Day/Afternoon — Iconic Berlin

Many of Berlin’s most iconic symbols are found within a short walk of each other. Most famous of all is the Brandenburg Gate. First built as a symbol of peace, it became a symbol of division during the Cold War. A few steps away stands the Reichstag, which was destroyed in the climax of World War II but which has been beautifully rebuilt with a glass dome. Meanwhile, the modernistic Sony Center also symbolizes a revitalized and rebuilt Berlin. Also close by is the sobering Holocaust Memorial, with its more than 2700 concrete slabs creating an ominous impression of loss. Just beyond it is another reminder of Germany's darkest period - the site of Hitler's bunker during the seige of Berlin.

Brandenburg Gate

Quadriga. Hey, There's a Word to Know When Learning About this Historic Gate

Reichstag

Make your way to the top of the dome enjoying amazing views and looking down at debating members of the German Parliament below.

Sony Center

Check out the futuristic and ground-breaking Sony Center at Potsdamer Platz.

The visually dramatic and future-aesthetic Sony Center is a complex of entertainment, shopping, and office buildings surrounding a plaza canopied by a tentlike glass roof with supporting beams radiating out like bicycle spokes. It also integrates rare relics from Potsdamer Platz's prewar era, such as the opulent Kaisersaal – a fragment of the luxurious pre-war Esplanade Hotel.

Holocaust Memorial

Wander amongst 2,711 columns forming a vast mazelike Holocaust memorial.

The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. It consists of a 19,000 square meter site with over 2700 concrete slabs that grow larger and more ominous as you approach the center of the monument. Beneath the monument lies an information center. 

Early Evening to Late Evening — East Side Gallery

Kreuzberg was a rough, poor area in West Berlin until students, artists, and immigrants began moving there for the cheap rents. Over time it became Berlin’s most hip and happening district, filled with cafes, restaurants, and bars. After 1989, Friedrichshain, a grungy, working-class district just across the river in the former East Berlin, began to compete with Kreuzberg as Berlin's trendiest neighborhood. It's also home to the East Side Gallery, the longest remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall.

Oberbaumbrücke

Cross between the ultra-hip neighborhoods of Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg on this picturesque double-decked bridge.

This bridge over the River Spree is used by cars, pedestrians, and cyclists, also carries a line of the U-Bahn. It was built to resemble the distinct style of brick Gothic, which was popular in northern Germany in the middle ages. It also possesses two decorative towers which symbolize the historic importance of the site, when it served as a gateway into the city.

East Side Gallery

Admire the street art as you walk the longest remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall.

Painted with graffiti art, the East Side gallery is considered the world’s largest and longest open-air art gallery in the world, with over 100 graffiti murals set along the Spree river. One of the most famous murals is the controversial and oft-depicted “My God, Help Me to Survive This Deadly Love”, which shows former Communist leaders Leonid Brezhnev and Erich Honecker kissing. 

Berghain

Try to get into Berlin's most famous nightclub.

Located in an abandoned power plant, and with space for more than 1,500 guests, you might think it is easy to get into this club. But in reality it's still quite tough to make it inside. While the harsh, industrial interior is dominated by steel and concrete, the club has a reputation for sensuousness and hedonism. 

Day 2

Berlin

Day 3

Berlin

Day 3

Berlin

Morning

River Cruise

The Spree is a 250 mile long river that flows through the German states of Saxony and Brandenburg. But it’s best known for its final stretch where it drifts through the city center of Berlin, flowing under more bridges than in Venice and passing the Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom), the Reichstag and the Charlottenburg chateau. Taking a cruise, whether for an hour or half the day, offers a wonderful way to see the city in a relaxed manner.

Cruise on the River Spree

Morning — River Cruise

Mid-Day — Tiergarten

Once the hunting ground of the Prussian kings, the Tiergarten is Berlin’s most famous and expansive park. It is a wonderful escape from urban stress located in the very center of the city. You will discover beautiful forests, fields, and ponds, all easily reached through an extensive and well maintained network of trails. Some of Berlin's favorite beer gardens are also located in the park.

Victory Column

Climb the historic column for a panoramic view of the city amidst a sea of green trees.

One of Berlin’s most familiar sights, the column commemorates victories over Denmark, Austria, and France during the mid-19th century. These victories enabled the founding of the German Empire in 1871. It was moved to the current location on the express orders of Hitler. 

Café am Neuen See

Take a Break in a Popular Beer Garden Nestled Within the Park.

Even if you don’t feel like stopping for a drink or a meal, it is still worth a quick peek just to experience the atmosphere. The location is absolutely ideal, surrounded by forest and looking over the lake with its many paddle boaters. There's a formal sit-down café on the terrace and a self-service beer garden, where sharing benches is expected and completely normal.

Trödel Markt

Shop within the forest at Berlin’s best flea market.

If you are looking for a unique purchase then this is the place. The market takes place every weekend from 10am-5pm. Discover art, family heirlooms, furniture, clothing, souvenirs, food, and more. 

Afternoon/Late Afternoon — City West

In the 1920's the elegant, tree-line boulevard known as the Kurfürstendamm was the center of Berlin's nightlife and leisure scene, attracting writers, film stars, and artists. WWII left it in ruins, and today at the end of the boulevard you'll discover a chilling reminder of that destruction: the purposefully unrecontructed remains of the Memorial Church. During the Cold War, the Kurfürstendamm and its surroundings were central to West Berlin's revitalized identity. This was perhaps best symbolized by the famous KaDeWe, the gigantic department store which served as a symbol of market capitalism lodged in the heart of the Iron Curtain.

Memorial Church

Remind yourself of war's destructiveness by visiting the ruins of this church destroyed during WWII.

After its destruction in WWII, the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church was partially rebuilt in modernist style, and partially left in ruins as a powerful reminder of the war. Built-in the 1890s, Kaiser Wilhelm II hoped to inspire the secular proletariat to return to traditional religious values. The neo-Gothic design became ever more colorful as Wilhelm insisted on more bling. The small exhibition inside shows the wartime destruction and a “before and after” model of the city center.

Story of Berlin Museum

Take an interactive crash course in Berlin history. (Re-opening Autumn 2021)

This museum uses reconstructed street scapes, homes, and other interactive exibits to give you good feeling for the atmosphere of Berlin during it's long and often times turbulent history, including during the Nazi and Communist era. You can also tour an underground nuclear shelter.

Berlin Zoo

Visit Germany's Oldest and Best Known Zoo.

Founded in 1844, the Zoologischer Garten Berlin was the first zoo in Germany and features some wonderful animal-inspired architecture as well. The original animals were donated by King Frederick William IV of Prussia, and it now has a collection of around 20,500 animals representing 1,500 different species. The zoo’s aquarium opened in 1913 and now contains one of the largest collections of aquatic life in Europe. 

KaDeWe

Shop in the iconic department store of capitalist West Berlin

Opened in 1907, the Kaufhaus des Westens, or KaDeWe, quickly became a temple of luxury in a rapidly modernising city. It took off again following the German post-war economic miracle and gained new impetus again following German reunification. During Communism, due to it's proximity to East Germany, it became a symbol of the material wealth of the West in comparison to that of countries stuck behind the Iron Curtain.

6:30 PM - 9:00 PM — Guided Beer Tasting Tour

Beer in Germany is virtually a mandatory beverage to accompany the consumption of food. The Saxons have a very relaxed and casual attitude toward the consumption of alcohol and enjoy it as part of their culture. They're also proud of their centuries-old brewing traditions and the "Beer Purity Law" that helps to keep the quality of German beer high. You can experience all this as part of a guided visit to some of Berlin's best beer halls, pubs, and summer beer gardens.

Day 3

Berlin

Day 4

Berlin to Prague

Day 4

Berlin to Prague

10:10 AM

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Berlin Hbf 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. It is well connected by public transport, including U-bahn, S-bahn, and bus, making it relatively easy and often fastest to reach by public transport. However, if traveling with bags, you may prefer the convenience of taking a taxi, Uber, or private transfer. Berlin taxis are generally reliable and honest. If you are staying in central Berlin and are picked up one hour prior to departure, you should have time to catch your train.

Taxi Transfer or Public Transport to Main Rail Station

10:10 AM — Transfer to Rail Station

11:16 - 15:23 — Train to Prague

Your scenic journey should take about 5 hours. The first couple hours bring you to the state capital of Saxony, Dresden. You will then enter an area known as Saxon Switzerland, which is filled with fascinating rock formations. You'll even pass beneath the imposing Fortress Königstein, which towers above the narrow river valley. After crossing the border into the Czech Republic, the beautiful scenery continues as you enter what is now known as Bohemian Switzerland. You'll then follow the Elbe and Vltava rivers through the pretty Bohemian countryside until reaching Prague.

3:23 PM — Transfer from Rail Station

Most trains arrive in 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 easiest way to reach your hotel may be by public transport. Taxis are available but are known for taking advantage of tourists. However if you prefer the convenience of not carrying your bags on public transport, they are an option. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags. Uber and Bolt Taxis are also available for those with the app.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — The Little Quarter

The Little Quarter is a quaint yet lively quarter of Prague tightly nestled on the slope and riverbank beneath the Prague Castle. It is filled with the homes of medieval and renaissance nobility who wanted to live as closely as possible to the castle. Picturesque side streets, beautiful churches, and impressive Baroque architecture all abound within the Little Quarter.

Charles Bridge

Cross the river dividing Prague's most historic neighborhoods, and experience one of Europe's most iconic landmarks.

Bridge construction began in 1357 under King Charles IV (hence the name), and it was the only bridge across the Vltava River until 1841. 30 baroque statues of saints line the bridge, and it is filled with street artists and entertainers. Not to be missed.

Church of St. Nicholas

Stare in wonder at Prague's largest and most beautiful baroque church.

Construction on this elegant and incredibly ornate church began in 1745 and took 100 years and 3 generations of architects to complete. You can also climb the tower for a view.

Wallenstein Garden

Escape to these tranquil 17th-century gardens located behind the walls of the Senate palace.

Open from April to October, these grand late renaissance gardens feature a massive limestone grotto created by artificial stalactites, ornamental pools, & classically-inspired statues. Most tourists miss this hidden gem, as the gardens are reached through inconspicious passageways in Wallenstein Palace, which houses the Czech Senate, and the nearby the Malostranská Metro station.

Maltese Square & Lennon Wall

See a historic wall that has been covered in John Lennon-inspired graffiti since Communist days.

The wall has been covered in graffiti since the 1960s, and during Communism anti-regime sentiment was common. John Lennon's assassination inspired grafitti reflecting his song, Imagine, which earned the wall its current moniker. It is now a favorite gathering place for tourists, and musicians sometimes congregate there as well. Just around the corner is the Maltese Square, which is one of Prague's more quaint and relaxed public spaces, despite being just off the main tourist route.

Infant Jesus of Prague

See the Infant Jesus of Prague, a wax effigy of the baby Jesus credited with many miracles, which attracts visitors from around the world.

The church was completed in 1613 in the Baroque style and houses the 18.5-inch statue. The church is somewhat plain in comparison to most churches in Prague, but visitors come to see the Infant Jesus of Prague (il Bambino di Praga).

Day 4

Berlin to Prague

Day 5

Prague

Day 5

Prague

Morning/Mid-Day

Old Town

A visit to the Old Town transports you to an entirely different era. A labyrinth of twisting cobblestone lanes and alleys surrounds Old Town Square, which has been Prague's municipal center since the Middle Ages. The square is lined by magnificent churches and imposing Renaissance palaces. As you wander through the Old Town, you discover numerous other delights, including several beautiful churches, a plentiful supply of cozy cafes and pubs, and an outdoor market dating back to the Middle Ages.

Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock

See Prague's most photographed moment when the late medieval timepiece constructed on the side of the Old Town Hall Tower comes to life at the top of the hour.

Church of Our Lady before Týn

Count the spires on the Church of Our Lady Týn before discovering the hidden courtyard behind it.

Clementinum

Discover a large historical complex of buildings and courtyards "hidden in plain sight" within the Old Town.

Wanderings in the Old Town

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Old Town Square

Make sure to visit one of Europe's most important, historic, and stunning city squares.

Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock

See Prague's most photographed moment when the late medieval timepiece constructed on the side of the Old Town Hall Tower comes to life at the top of the hour.

Church of Our Lady before Týn

Count the spires on the Church of Our Lady Týn before discovering the hidden courtyard behind it.

Clementinum

Discover a large historical complex of buildings and courtyards "hidden in plain sight" within the Old Town.

Wanderings in the Old Town

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Old Town Square

Make sure to visit one of Europe's most important, historic, and stunning city squares.

Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock

See Prague's most photographed moment when the late medieval timepiece constructed on the side of the Old Town Hall Tower comes to life at the top of the hour.

Morning/Mid-Day — Old Town

Old Town Square

Make sure to visit one of Europe's most important, historic, and stunning city squares.

The square is filled with rich history and surrounded by many beautiful old buildings, such as the gothic church of Our Lady before Týn and the baroque church of St. Nicholas. At the center of the square is a large statue of Jan Hus, a church reformer burnt at the stake in 1415, and a lovely and recently-restored column topped by the Virgin Mary. Today the square is filled with street performers, food stalls, and horse-drawn carriages. 

Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock

See Prague's most photographed moment when the late medieval timepiece constructed on the side of the Old Town Hall Tower comes to life at the top of the hour.

Apostles proceed from the tower’s 1410 astronomical clock hourly, flanked by figures representing vanity, greed, death, and pleasure. You can also take an elevator to the top of the Old Town Hall tower for a great view of the Old Town Square and rooftops. Tours of the town hall and its gothic cellars are also offered. 

Church of Our Lady before Týn

Count the spires on the Church of Our Lady Týn before discovering the hidden courtyard behind it.

The 14th-century, Gothic church is a stunning structure with asymmetrical towers (note that the one on the right is slightly larger than the one on the left). It is the dominant feature of Old Town square and serves as an extensive gallery of Gothic, Renaissance and Early Baroque works. The church is the final resting place for the great astronomer Tycho Brahe.

Clementinum

Discover a large historical complex of buildings and courtyards "hidden in plain sight" within the Old Town.

Founded as an abbey in the 11th century and later transformed into a Jesuit university, it is the second largest complex of buildings in Prague after the castle and contains four separate churches. Guided tours begin at 10am, and include an awe-inspiring Baroque library hall and the Astronomical Tower, from which you have a beautiful view of the Old Town.

Mid-Day/Afternoon — 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.

Old Jewish Cemetery

Take an unforgettable visit to one of Europe's largest medieval Jewish cemeteries.

As the Jewish Ghetto was quite cramped, there was no room to expand the cemetery. Unable to acquire further land, and not wishing to dishonor ancestors through the demolition of existing graves, Prague's Jews buried their loved ones in multiple levels. Gravestones are packed in tightly and in some areas the burials reach 12 layers!

Spanish Synagogue

Discover the synagogue considered by many to be Prague's most beautiful.

Completed in 1868, the Spanish Synagogue is the newest synagogue in Prague's Jewish Quarter, but happens to be built on the site of the former Oldest Synagogue in Prague. It is built in a stunning Spanish Moorish style as a symbol of the flowering of the Jewish culture which occurred under Muslim rule on the Iberian Peninsula.

Old-New Synagogue

See the oldest surviving synagogue in Europe and also one of Prague's earliest Gothic buildings.

When built it was Prague’s newest synagogue, but over time became its oldest – hence the “Old-New”. A beautiful ark holds the Torah and legend says its attic is the hiding place of the legendary clay Golem.

Late Afternoon — Evening Boat Cruise

Embark on a captivating evening river cruise in Prague on the Vltava River, where the city's historic landmarks come alive under the soft glow of twilight. Glide past Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town while enjoying a glass of bubbly or a gourmet dining experience with fine wines. This enchanting journey offers a unique perspective of Prague's beauty, creating memories against the backdrop of the city's sparkling lights.

Day 5

Prague

Day 6

Prague

Day 6

Prague

Early Morning/Morning

New Town

Despite being 700 years old, the New Town (Nové Město) is the youngest of the original five independent towns that made up Medieval Prague. The heart of New Town is one of the three original markets around which the town was planned, Wenceslas Square. Not fully given over to tourism like the Old Town, the New Town combines a historic atmosphere with the daily commercial and social life of locals, making it a great place to get a taste of the real Prague.

Dancing House

Stroll down the river to find this curvaceous office block designed by Frank Gehry, and whi msically nicknamed Fred & Ginger.

National Theater

Experience nationally-sponsored ballet & opera in a magnificent venue.

National Museum

Explore an interesting museum collection in a grand building completed in 1891.

Discover the New Town

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Wenceslas Square

Experience a mishmash of interesting architecture on Wenceslas Square, Prague's main commercial center.

Municipal House

Tour a breathtaking art nouveau venue and stay for a concert, opera, or ballet.

Dancing House

Stroll down the river to find this curvaceous office block designed by Frank Gehry, and whi msically nicknamed Fred & Ginger.

National Theater

Experience nationally-sponsored ballet & opera in a magnificent venue.

National Museum

Explore an interesting museum collection in a grand building completed in 1891.

Discover the New Town

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Wenceslas Square

Experience a mishmash of interesting architecture on Wenceslas Square, Prague's main commercial center.

Municipal House

Tour a breathtaking art nouveau venue and stay for a concert, opera, or ballet.

Early Morning/Morning — New Town

Wenceslas Square

Experience a mishmash of interesting architecture on Wenceslas Square, Prague's main commercial center.

The square, which could also be described as a wide boulevard, is named after the Patron Saint of Bohemia, whose statue can be seen at the top of the square. Many historical events have taken place here, including the demonstrations of the Velvet Revolution in 1989, which resulted in the collapse of the Communist regime. Today the square is lined by department stores, hotels, and office buildings, many of them notable architectural highlights of the 19th, 20th, and 21st century.

Municipal House

Tour a breathtaking art nouveau venue and stay for a concert, opera, or ballet.

The stunning concert hall is open for tours and hosts performances on most evenings. The main hall is painted by famous Czech artists including Alfons Mucha. A beautiful cafe and restaurant are also housed in the building, and you can find one of Prague's most ornate pubs in the cellar (the "American Bar").

Dancing House

Stroll down the river to find this curvaceous office block designed by Frank Gehry, and whi msically nicknamed Fred & Ginger.

There is no tour of the interior, so most visitors just snap a photo and head out. However, there is a restaurant and bar at the top called Ginger&Fred. For a spectacular view of the city check out the terrace on the top floor (only for paying customers).

National Theater

Experience nationally-sponsored ballet & opera in a magnificent venue.

This concert hall is Prague's most prestigious, and it is not only a symbol of the 19th century Czech national revival but also arguably one of the most beautiful concert venues in Europe. Unfortunately, tours are not regularly offered, but you may attend an opera or ballet if you purchase tickets in advance. The riverfront near the concert hall is one of the most photographed spots in Prague.

National Museum

Explore an interesting museum collection in a grand building completed in 1891.

The recently renovated and improved National Museum is fronted by the iconic equestrian statue of "good king Wenceslas". Beyond it's dramatic exterior you'll find a grand staircase which is a highlight of any visit. Founded in 1818, the museum played a major role in bringing natural science and history to the common man, and also played an important part in the Czech national revival occurring in the 19th century.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon — Vyšehrad Fortress

The castle of Vyšehrad was the seat of Bohemia's kings from the 11th to the 12th centuries. Due to its strategic position on a hill overlooking the Vltava River and Prague, it became an important army garrison in the 17th century, and it was transformed into a fortress with huge walls, gates, and ramparts. Walking along these ramparts will offer you wonderful views of the city and river. The interior of the fortress is now given over to a pleasant and quiet park which is a favorite of locals.

Brick Gate and Casemates

Venture within the fortress's massive 17th-century walls and gates.

A tour through the Brick Gate on the fortress's north side will take you through the narrow underground passageways and casemates of the fortress. You will see a historical exhibit on Vy&scaron;ehrad as well as the underground Gorlice Hall, where the original statues from the Charles Bridge are stored for safe-keeping (many of the statues on the bridge are copies). 

Vyšehrad Cemetery

Wander in a graveyard where many prominent Czechs are buried, such as famed composers Dvořák & Smětana.

The cemetery is filled with many tombs which are works of art in themselves, including several arcades with beautiful art-nouveau frescoes. The monumental Slavin tomb is a sort of pantheon of the Czech people, with over 55 prominent persons buried within it. Dvořák and Smětana have their own more modest graves.

Fortress Walls Viewpoint

Enjoy stunning city views from atop the fortress walls.

Prague Castle and most of the city can be seen from above the cavernous Gorlice Hall. A walk along the fortress walls is a delightful experience, as you will enjoy numerous excellent vantage points on all sides of the fortress, enjoying Prague from a different perspective without all the crowds.

9:00 PM — Taxi Transfer to Rail Station

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.

22:01 - 08:29 — Overnight Train to Budapest

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

Day 6

Prague

Day 7

Budapest

Day 7

Budapest

8:29 AM

Taxi Transfer from Rail Station

There are three significant rail stations where visitors arrive in Budapest. You are most likely to arrive in the Budapest-Keleti station (i.e. East Rail Station), although you may also arrive at the Budapest-Nyugati (western) or Budapest-Déli (southern) station. They are all three fairly centrally located. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance of station. Also consider that the cheapest and sometimes fastest way to reach your hotel may be by public transport, and all three stations are co-located with metro stations. Taxis are available at all rail stations but are known for taking advantage of tourists. A private transfer may be a better option; some will even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags.

Transfer by Taxi or Public Transport

8:29 AM — Taxi Transfer from Rail Station

Morning — Central Market & Váci Street

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.

Váci Street (Váci utca)

Walk one of Budapest's main pedestrian thoroughfares, which is very popular with shoppers and tourists.

The street is lined by shops, boutiques, cafés, and restaurants. Many elegant buildings line the street, most dating to the late19th century. Numerous courtyards and passageways branch off from the street. Although touristy, it is an integral part of the city and an interesting place to stroll.

Promenade

Discover why this pedestrian walkway along the Danube River, with it's beautiful views of the river and castle, is a favorite of both locals and visitors alike.

This promenade above the river embankment was the place to see-and-be-seen in 19th century Budapest. Cafes and luxury hotels lined the promenade, taking advantage of stunning views of the castle. They were destroyed in WWII and replaced with large modern hotels, eliminating some of the charm. The view, however, is still incredible.

Central Market Hall

Shop in a huge market hall built in the late 19th century.

This restored neo-gothic Market Hall is a favorite with visitors but also still visited by locals for its outstanding food stands and grocery stalls on the ground floor. On the upper levels, you can shop for souvenirs and traditional Hungarian goods & crafts.   

Afternoon — Central Pest

In Central Pest you will discover the beating heart of the city, with grand apartment houses and art nouveau architectural gems. No visit to Budapest is complete without seeing its highlights, including St. Stephen's Basilica, which dramatically rises above the city, and the Chain Bridge, which regally spans the Danube.

St. Stephen's Basilica

Enjoy an awe-inspiring visit to this vast cupola-topped church; the most famous in Budapest.

Completed in 1905, the construction of the neo-classical Catholic church took over 50 years. The mummified hand of Hungary's first king, St. Stephen, is kept in a small chapel in the rear. Take a lift to the dome to enjoy one of Budapest's most interesting panoramic views. The church hosts frequent concerts. 

Széchenyi Chain Bridge

Stroll across a beautiful landmark 19th-century suspension bridge which is a symbol of Budapest.

This was Budapest's first permanent bridge over the Danube, enabling the cities of Buda and Pest to merge. Named after Count István Széchenyi, it hangs from iron chains (hence, the Chain Bridge) anchored by two towering river piers. These piers were the only elements to survive WWII fighting. The rest was rebuilt.

Café Gerbeaud

Enjoy a leisurely coffee and cake in one of Budapest's most storied cafes.

Over 160 years old, with a grand, high-ceilinged dining room, the cafe is deservedly one of Budapest's most popular attractions. It serves coffee, mouthwatering Hungarian pastries, and traditional bistro dishes. It retains the elegance and sophistication of its 19th century origins, and the terrace sits on the lively Vörösmarty Square. 

Gresham Palace

Take a peak at this pearl of art nouveau architecture, which now houses a Four Seasons Hotel.

The hotel doesn't mind tourists exploring the lavish arcade on the first floor, as it is lined by shops and a café. Be sure to note the organic themes of the façade and the beautiful wrought iron peacock gate on the north side of the building.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Castle Hill

The historic Renaissance and Baroque architecture of Buda's hilltop Castle District make it feel like a quaint step back in time. Indeed, in the little squares and narrow lanes of the Castle District, you will find the heart of historic Hungary. Numerous points in the Castle District also provide breathtaking views over the Danube and the Pest side of the city.

Matthias Church

Visit this lovely, late-gothic church and learn its storied history.

This 13th century church is named after King Matthius, who was married here twice. Under Turkish occupation it was converted into a Mosque, then reconverted into a baroque church, and finally was splendidly reinvented in the late 1800's by combining historic elements with neo-Gothic reconstruction. It holds the tomb of Béla III, one of Hungary's tallest medieval kings. 

Fisherman's Bastion

Take in stunning panoramic views from this faux fortress with 7 turreted lookout towers.

This fanciful late-19th century creation replaced the original walls where the Fisherman's guild was responsible for town defense. It offers outstanding views of Pest and the river. More photos are taken here than any other place in Budapest. The upper terrace of the bastion offers the best views, but you must pay for entry. 

Palace Courtyard

Discover a beautiful fountain in this courtyard in the center of the castle complex.

The north gate into the courtyard features a raven (the symbol of the famed King Matthias) and the south gate features two lions. In the center of the square is a statue of a cowboy and horse from the Hungarian plains. Most strikingly, an ornate fountain shows King Matthias on a hunt and the peasant girl who fell in love with him.

National Gallery

Experience exquisite Hungarian national art in this museum located in the former Royal Palace.

The museum contains the most important collection of Hungarian art works from the 15th century to the modern day. Exquisite Gothic altarpieces, Károly Lotz's Secession-era paintings, and Mihály Munkácsy's tender realism are only a few of its many highlights. 

Day 7

Budapest

Day 8

Budapest

Day 8

Budapest

9:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Guided Walk in Budapest

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.

Best of Budapest: Half-Day Walking Tour of Highlights & Hidden Finds

9:00 AM - 12:30 PM — Guided Walk in Budapest

Mid-Day to Late Afternoon — Szentendre Excursion

The little cobblestoned town of Szentendre lies charmingly nestled alongside the Danube River and is less than an hour away from Budapest by train or car. Nearly every building in the town dates back to the period of baroque architecture. It is now a haven for artists, who sell their works throughout town.

Belgrade Church, Szentendre

A baroque Orthodox church and museum with stunning Orthodox icons and other religious art.

The museum features art collected from Hungary's formerly Serbian churches. The churches were closed as Serbs emigrated to Serbia or integrated into the Hungarian population, and the finest art from the churches was saved and sent to Szentendre. An 800 HUF admission covers both the church and the museum – you may even have the museum to yourselves. 

Templom tér

A square overlooking the town that is missed by many visitors.

The Templom square above Fő square provides a nice viewpoint from which to admire the town, and the Church of St. John is also worth a peak if open. Also on the square is a small art museum dedicated to Béla Czóbel (1883-1976), a Hungarian avant-garde painter.

Fő tér (Fő Square)

A colorful pedestrian square in the heart of the town.

You will find restaurants and shops lining the cobblestoned square. Also on the square is the Szentendre Gallery, which is located in the ground floor of a building dating back to 1720. The Orthodox church adjacent to the square is also definitely worth a look.

Szentendre Skanzen Village Museum

A Hungarian folk culture open-air museum

The museum consists of an entire village, taking visitors back in time to 18th- to 20th-century rural and farming life. You can see reconstructed farm dwellings and a museological collection.

Early Evening/Evening — Evening Cruise

The Danube River defines Budapest, as it divides the metropolis into two distinct city environments - Buda and Pest. It is spanned by a succession of stunning bridges which are best appreciated from the water. An evening river cruise is a relaxing way to soak in the beauty of the city, as you enjoy a drink or meal, and watch as the brightly-lit buildings cast reflections on the water.

Margaret Island

Join the locals and explore this island on the Danube which holds an enchanting park and baths.

This island park is an oasis of tranquility and a favorite retreat of locals. It is connected by one of the city's prettiest bridges, the Margit Híd (the Margaret Bridge). King Béla IV promised his 9 year old daughter Margaret to God after the Mongols retreated from Hungary, giving the island its name.

Day 8

Budapest

Day 9

Budapest

Day 9

Budapest

Morning/Mid-Day

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.

Szimpla Kert

Discover Budapest's most unique form of nightlife - pubs located in the ruins of old buildings!

Holocaust Memorial Center

Learn about the Holocaust in a former synagogue which honors Hungarian Jews killed in WWII.

Visiting the Jewish Quarter

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Great Synagogue

Stare in awe at Europe's largest synagogue (and the second largest in the world).

Szimpla Kert

Discover Budapest's most unique form of nightlife - pubs located in the ruins of old buildings!

Holocaust Memorial Center

Learn about the Holocaust in a former synagogue which honors Hungarian Jews killed in WWII.

Visiting the Jewish Quarter

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Great Synagogue

Stare in awe at Europe's largest synagogue (and the second largest in the world).

Morning/Mid-Day — Jewish Quarter

Great Synagogue

Stare in awe at Europe's largest synagogue (and the second largest in the world).

Also known as the Dohány Street Synagogue, it possesses a striking Byzantine Moorish style exterior with an ornate dome, and an opulent interior. Adjacent to it are a memorial to the Holocaust in the form of a weeping willow, and a museum of Jewish culture. Entry is by guided tour only, although wait times can be very long so booking early is recommended.

Szimpla Kert

Discover Budapest's most unique form of nightlife - pubs located in the ruins of old buildings!

Szimpla Kert was the first pub located in a ruin, and it started a trend that is now a Budapest institution. These pubs have an eclectic vibe and are a great place to mix with the locals as well as other visitors. The concept dates back to the early 2000s when entrepreneurs took over abandoned spaces within dilapidated buildings for underground events. The 7th district, i.e. the Jewish Quarter, is the best place to find them. 

Holocaust Memorial Center

Learn about the Holocaust in a former synagogue which honors Hungarian Jews killed in WWII.

The refurbished 1920s synagogue now serves as a museum and memorial for Hungarian Jewish victims of the Holocaust. It also functions as a documentation center. Note, it is actually not located in the Jewish Quarter, which is in Budapest's 7th District, but the nearby 9th District.

Mid-Day to Late Afternoon — Andrássy Avenue

The wide, tree-lined Andrássy Avenue is Budapest's most prominent street, and is lined by imposing neo-Renaissance palaces and buildings. It is home to the breathtakingly beautiful State Opera House, making it the musical heart of Hungary. You will also find the superb House of Terror museum, which focuses on the horrors inflicted by 20th century totalitarian regimes.

State Opera House & Opera Metro Station

Experience an unforgettable visit to the incredibly lavish neo-Renaissance Hungarian State Opera House.

The Opera House is a symbol of the Hungarian nation and is one of it's most beautiful buildings. It is among the world's finest venues in terms of beauty and acoustics. When completed in 1886, the Austro-Hungarian Emperor was said to be upset because it outshone the opera house of Vienna. You can experience a performance here, or take an entertaining guided tour. 

House of Terror Museum

Experience a chilling museum documenting the terrors of Fascism & Communism in Hungary .

This somber and foreboding interactive museum tells the tragic story of Hungary's totalitarian experiences under Fascism and Communism. It is located in the headquarters building of the Arrow Cross Party (Hungarian fascists), and later the Communist secret police after WWII. Hear stories of those who suffered as well as their oppressors, and wander the dank cells where victims were tortured and interrogated.

Late Afternoon to Evening — Szechenyi Baths and Nearby

The Széchenyi Baths are the largest and the most popular of all the city's baths. With eighteen indoor and outdoor pools and impressive neo-Baroque architecture, the baths make for an unforgettable visit. Nearby, you will find the fascinating Vajdahunyad Castle, a delightful zoo, and the monumental Heroes’ Square, which tells a 1,000-year old tale of Hungarian history.

Heroes' Square

A dramatic square at the end of Adrássy Avenue, displaying statues of the leaders of 7 tribes who founded Hungary.

The vast square was the center of the Millenium celebrations in 1896, which celebrated Hungary's 1,000th anniversary. The Millenium Monument features a central column and two massive colonnades. The column is topped by the Archangel Gabriel, who offered the crown to Hungary's first king, Stephen. Along the base of the column and colonnades are romantic representations of Hungarian historical figures. The two chariots atop the colonnades represent war and peace.

Vajdahunyad Castle

This fantastical castle with a boating lake shows the evolution of Hungarian architecture in its elaborate design.

Built for the 1896 Millenium celebrations as a temporary exhibit, the castle proved so popular that it was rebuilt as a permanent structure. It's divided into sections by architectural style as a demonstration of the historical phases of Hungary. Each section is fashioned after a renowned Hungarian example of that architectural style.

Budapest Zoo

One of Europe's most enjoyable zoos with hundreds of animal species and historic architecture throughout the park.

The Secession style architecture of the buildings is a delight, incorporating animals and natural themes into the structures. Adjacent to the zoo is Holnemvolt Park, which combines animal exhibits with theme park rides. One ticket covers both.

Day 9

Budapest

Day 10

Depart Budapest

Day 10

Depart Budapest

What's Included in the Central European Trifecta Trip Trip?

Pre-Paid Tours and Activities:

Highlights of Berlin Guided Walking Tour
Guided Beer Tasting Tour
Best of Budapest: Half-Day Walking Tour of Highlights & Hidden Finds
City Card for Berlin, including discounts to many popular attractions

Pre-Paid Transportation:

2nd Class Train Tickets from Berlin Hbf to Praha hl.n.
Train Tickets from Prague to Budapest
Public Transport Tickets for Berlin

Accommodation:

3 nights at a hotel of your choice in Berlin
2 nights at a hotel of your choice in Prague
3 nights at a hotel of your choice in Budapest

Go Real Travel Mobile App:

Itinerary Plan & Reservations Info
Points of Interest
Detailed Travel Information
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Explore cities in more detail

Berlin

Since the fall of its notorious wall, Berlin’s unification has seen it go from strength to strength. No wonder the city feels like it hasn’t stopped partying since the 1990s. There is so much to celebrate here. Fueled by the robust economy, a thriving tech scene, and straight-up German bonhomie, when you step into Berlin you’ll soon be caught up in its spirit. For all this gusto, Berlin hasn’t forgotten its troubled past. A visit to Berlin is to bear witness to history. Portions of the wall remain intact, and the city’s Jewish Museum offers a detailed, emotional examination of the Holocaust. Inside the reconstructed Reichstag, every attempt has been made to preserve the parliament’s beleaguered history. The buildings' glass dome addition feels less like a triumphal crown and more like a freshly healed battle scar. Days in Berlin are easily spent wandering from a cafe to the cultural institutions on Museum Island, or over to the Charlottenburg Palace. By night, crowds wander through the booming bars and nightclubs or gaze upon the floodlit Brandenburg Gate and Victory Column monuments. An international city that can offer something to everyone, Berlin is an unmissable stop on your German journey.

Learn About Berlin

Prague

The city of Prague is indisputably the gem of Central Europe. Full of history, culture, and classic Czech pubs around every corner, Prague is teeming with nooks and crannies just waiting to be discovered. The narrow cobblestone streets and warm red rooftops give the city a homey feel, while the well-preserved medieval architecture transports you back in time. Walking across the Charles Bridge with the view of the Prague Castle will make you feel like you’re living in a fairytale, and you might as well be. As an up-and-coming destination, Prague is a perfect mix of classic and modern. New trendy cafes and bistros are always popping up, and you can always find a group of lively locals chowing down on goulash and quaffing pivo (the best beer in Europe!) at traditional Czech restaurants across the city. The clash of modernity and tradition, preservation and innovation, gives this city a mysterious air that you won’t soon forget.

Learn About Prague

Budapest

Situated at the heart of Europe, Budapest is the capital of Hungary, appropriately named 'The Pearl of the Danube,' for its fixating and almost haunting beauty. Formerly two separate cities, Buda and Pest were forged into one by time, occupation, and the eight bridges that anchor them together today. From the Romans to the Communists, each occupier left its flavor profile in Budapest, evident in the famous spicy Hungarian stew known as 'goulash.' Budapest is a melting pot of history, culture, and taste, from the magnificent Baroque and neo-Gothic architecture to the Turkish thermal baths. After a long day of sightseeing, treat yourself to a glass of Tokaj, what King Louis XIV of France referred to as the "Wine of Kings, King of Wines". Budapest has a flavor to satisfy any taste.

Learn About Budapest

Dresden

Nearly every wall and rooftop in Dresden seems to be finished with a flourish. Defined by its ornamental baroque architecture, a power statement of Saxon royalty, Dresden is made all the more miraculous considering the city was leveled by firebombing in WWII. After the war, the city was reconstructed, brick by painstaking brick. Even under East German-Soviet rule, which usually eschewed frivolous design, buildings like the Semper Opera House were pieced back to their former glory. Restoration of the majestic Zwinger Palace and bell domed Church of Our Lady slowly followed, with the Frauenkirche only fully repaired in 2005. Arguably there is no other city in Europe that cherishes its hard-won architecture as much as Dresden. Although it is a compact city, so many of its buildings will stop you in your tracks that architecture fans will easily lose a whole day in the Old Town area. Especially during the winter months, Dresden sparkles with a joyous, uplifting ambiance. The city is recognized as having the best-ever Christmas market in all of Europe. Between the twinkling lights, the scent of hot wine and gingerbread, and the towering Christmas tree, it’s worth going out of your way to see Dresden at this time of year.

Learn About Dresden

Frankfurt

Dubbed ‘Mainhatten’ for its glass highrises, financial prowess, and proximity to the Main River, Frankfurt offers a fascinating glimpse into the ‘engine room’ of Europe’s economy with an unexpected twist. Among the glass and steel buildings, the old-worldly Römerberg square will give you a double-take. The square’s 15th-century half-timbered houses, old statues, and church spires contrast dramatically against the modern 21st-century skyscrapers beyond. If you visit at Christmas, the Römerberg is truly special, aglow with the light of the tallest Christmas tree in Germany. The square fills with stalls selling handicrafts, and the air is scented with hot apple wine, honey, and cinnamon. Delve deeper into Frankfurt and you’ll find a substantial museum district, the Museumsufer (Museum Embankment). This area features a cluster of twelve museums on either side of Main River. This includes the Städel, home to Tischbein’s famous painting of renowned writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, one of Frankfurt’s most prestigious sons. The more time you spend in Frankfurt, the more you’ll discover a highly cultured city lurking beneath its glass facades. If you have the time, Frankfurt is certainly worth a second look.

Learn About Frankfurt

Hamburg

Compared to other German cities, Hamburg has a moody, nautical charisma all of its own. Despite being battered throughout history by floods, fires, and bombs, Hamburg has always held its head up high. Resilience is in the air in Hamburg, along with the briny smell of the North Sea. In recent years Hamburg has garnered a reputation for commerce and nightlife. Frequent travelers whisper that Hamburg is Germany’s ‘undiscovered’ city, the place to go for a little business and a lot of fun. Known as Germany’s ‘gateway to the world’, ships dock in Hamburg as they haul cargo up and down the Elbe River. The city thrives as Germany’s primary seaport and has been a center of trade since the middle ages. Its affluence shows in the 19th-century brick warehouses, flourishing restaurant scene, and recently constructed Elbphilharmonie concert hall, which floats majestically in the harbor, part ship and part island. Hamburg is a city for those who like to live large - in a cultured, German kind of way. Attend a performance at the orchestra, cruise on a boat around the Außenalster Lake, or have a night on the Reeperbahn, the Vegas-like strip where the Beatles once performed. Whatever you do in the city, Hamburg will make you look twice and see Germany from a totally different point of view.

Learn About Hamburg

Rivers and Revelries in the Cultural Capitals of Central Europe - Berlin, Prague & Budapest

10 Day Tour of Berlin, Prague and Budapest

How Long Is the Central European Trifecta Trip and What Does It Cost?

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Airport Transfer

To Be Determined — Airport Transfer

Mid-Day/Afternoon — TV Tower & Old Berlin

Television Tower

DDR Museum

Nikolaikirche

Nikolaiviertel

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Courtyards of Berlin

Hackesche Höfe

Haus Schwarzenberg

New Synagogue

To Be Determined — Airport Transfer

Mid-Day/Afternoon — TV Tower & Old Berlin

Television Tower

DDR Museum

Nikolaikirche

Nikolaiviertel

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Courtyards of Berlin

Hackesche Höfe

Haus Schwarzenberg

New Synagogue

Guided Walking Tour of Berlin

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM — Guided Walking Tour of Berlin

Brandenburg Gate

Reichstag

Mid-Day/Afternoon — Iconic Berlin

Brandenburg Gate

Reichstag

Sony Center

Holocaust Memorial

Early Evening to Late Evening — East Side Gallery

Oberbaumbrücke

East Side Gallery

Berghain

River Cruise

Morning — River Cruise

Mid-Day — Tiergarten

Victory Column

Café am Neuen See

Trödel Markt

Afternoon/Late Afternoon — City West

Memorial Church

Story of Berlin Museum

Berlin Zoo

KaDeWe

6:30 PM - 9:00 PM — Guided Beer Tasting Tour

Transfer to Rail Station

10:10 AM — Transfer to Rail Station

11:16 - 15:23 — Train to Prague

3:23 PM — Transfer from Rail Station

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — The Little Quarter

Charles Bridge

Church of St. Nicholas

Wallenstein Garden

Maltese Square & Lennon Wall

Infant Jesus of Prague

Old Town

Morning/Mid-Day — Old Town

Old Town Square

Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock

Church of Our Lady before Týn

Clementinum

Mid-Day/Afternoon — Jewish Quarter

Old Jewish Cemetery

Spanish Synagogue

Old-New Synagogue

Late Afternoon — Evening Boat Cruise

New Town

Early Morning/Morning — New Town

Wenceslas Square

Municipal House

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