11 Day Itinerary in Berlin, Prague & Vienna: Castles, Palaces, and Much More

11 Day Tour of Berlin, Prague and Vienna

Destinations on this trip: Berlin,Prague,Vienna

Overview
Trip Map
Itinerary
Inclusions
Reviews

How Long Is the Palaces of Central Europe Trip and What Does It Cost?

Castle & Palace ToursHistory Buffs

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Best time
Jan-Dec
From
$2045 / person (Flights not included)

Journey to a realm of majestic palaces and medieval castles on this 11-day trip to Berlin, Prague, and Vienna. Your adventure begins in Berlin, where history comes alive amidst iconic landmarks. In Prague, walk the charming Charles Bridge, Vienna awaits with its grand opera houses and Baroque palaces. Venture beyond the cities on excursions to nearby castles and palaces. Each city's unique story is enhanced by private guided tours, and the trip made smooth by detailed travel guidance. You experience a rich blend of urban exploration and countryside discovery.

See Berlin's rich history at the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag, symbols of German reunification
Cross Charles Bridge in Prague, a Gothic & Baroque architectural marvel leading to the Prague Castle
Marvel at the imperial splendor of Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace, a testament to Austria's past glories
Embark on a day trip from Prague to the storied Karlštejn Castle
Visit captivating riverside castles on a Danube cruise through the scenic Wachau Valley

See Berlin's rich history at the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag, symbols of German reunification
Cross Charles Bridge in Prague, a Gothic & Baroque architectural marvel leading to the Prague Castle
Marvel at the imperial splendor of Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace, a testament to Austria's past glories
Embark on a day trip from Prague to the storied Karlštejn Castle
Visit captivating riverside castles on a Danube cruise through the scenic Wachau Valley

The Brandenburg Gate

Historic Landmarks

The Berlin Wall

Historic Landmarks

Prague Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Charles Bridge

Historic Landmarks

Hofburg Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Schönbrunn Palace & Zoo

Parks & Gardens

Must see sights

The Brandenburg Gate

Historic Landmarks

The Berlin Wall

Historic Landmarks

Prague Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Charles Bridge

Historic Landmarks

Hofburg Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Schönbrunn Palace & Zoo

Parks & Gardens

Starting from

$2045

per person

Not included

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

Secure Your Customizable Trip
Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Start

Travelers

0 travelers

Preferred Hotel Stars

Select Hotel Stars

Craft Your Own Itinerary
Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.

Where Does the Palaces of Central Europe Trip Trip Go?

Enable/Disable Map Scrolling

Click To Make Map Interactive

Palaces of Central Europe Trip Timeline

Arrival

3 nights

Berlin

Germany

Train: 4.5h

3 nights

Prague

Czech Republic

Train: 4.5h

4 nights

Vienna

Austria

Departure

What Does the Palaces of Central Europe 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!

Afternoon — Museum Island

This island in the River Spree is home to five world-renowned museums, which could easily fill up a whole trip just by themselves. The island is covered in trees and green lawns, while the classically-inspired architecture of the museums can be enjoyed without even stepping inside. Unfortunately, the biggest star of the island, the Pergamon Museum, with its wholly reconstructed ancient buildings, is closed until 2026 for renovations. However, you can still visit a massive 360-panorama depicting the ancient city of Pergamon, and there's still more museums to visit than you could possibly fit in. Also to be found on and around Museum Island are the majestic Berliner Dom cathedral and the huge Berlin Palace.

Pergamonmuseum

Relive the past in one of the world's premier museums of archealogy and ancient art. You can step into enormous ancient structures, wholly reconstructed.

The museum is a jaw-dropping feast of classical sculpture and monumental architecture from Greece, Rome, Babylon and the Middle East divided into three parts. Highlights include the radiant-blue Ishtar Gate from Babylon, the Roman Market Gate of Miletus and the Caliph's Palace of Mshatta.

Neues Museum

Stare into the eyes of the famed Egyptian queen Nefertiti and see other ancient artwork and archeological artifacts.

The New Museum was opened in 1859 to relieve pressure on the over-crowded Old Museum. The three exhibition floors were decorated by leading Classical painters, with a focal point being a grand staircase winding up all three stories. Exhibits include the archaeological collections of the Egyptian Museum and Papyrus Collection, the Museum of Pre- and Early History, and the Collection of Classical Antiquities. The 3300-year-old bust of Egyptian Queen Nefertiti is the showstopper.

Berliner Dom

Climb 270 steps to the top of this massive 19th century cathedral for a unique panoramic view of the city.

Berlin Cathedral, nestled on Museum Island, epitomizes German neo-Renaissance grandeur with its striking dome. Built from 1894 to 1905 and restored post-World War II, its lavish interior, stained glass, and notable pipe organ draw visitors. Beyond a place of worship, it houses the former imperial ruling family's, the Hohenzollern, crypt, revealing the dynastic past of Germany.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — 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. 

Day 2

Berlin

Day 3

Berlin

Day 3

Berlin

Morning to Late Afternoon

Potsdam

For most visitors, Potsdam means Sanssouci, Frederick the Great's palace and his majestically landscaped park of architectural treasures that once competed with Berlin as the grand Prussian capital. But there is much more to Potsdam than just Sanssouci. From taking a cruise through pristine lakes, exploring the charming city center, or wandering the numerous tranquil parks studded with fantastical palaces, visitors will be hard pressed to fit a visit to Potsdam into just one day. In fact many choose to rent a bike to fit more in, as well they should, as Potsdam is the perfect place to discover on a bicycle.

Dutch Quarter

Visit Holland in this delightful quarter of Potsdam.

Sansscouci Palace

See how Frederick the Great lived in his beautiful baroque summer palace and gardens.

Neues Palais

Tour a colossal palace building built by Frederick the Great as a demonstration of the Prussian state’s power and wealth.

Excursion to Potsdam

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Bridge of Spies

Furtively cross the Bridge of Spies which once separated East and West Berlin

Dutch Quarter

Visit Holland in this delightful quarter of Potsdam.

Sansscouci Palace

See how Frederick the Great lived in his beautiful baroque summer palace and gardens.

Neues Palais

Tour a colossal palace building built by Frederick the Great as a demonstration of the Prussian state’s power and wealth.

Excursion to Potsdam

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Bridge of Spies

Furtively cross the Bridge of Spies which once separated East and West Berlin

Dutch Quarter

Visit Holland in this delightful quarter of Potsdam.

Morning to Late Afternoon — Potsdam

Bridge of Spies

Furtively cross the Bridge of Spies which once separated East and West Berlin

The Glienicke Bridge was the site of Cold War intrigue and drama, earning it the title role in the 2015 Tom Hanks movie, Bridge of Spies. The bridge was off-limits to citizens on both sides of the border and therefore it was the site of the famous prisoner exchange which brought captured American pilot Gary Powers home. In 1988 three citizens of Potsdam (then part of East Germany) spectacularly broke through the border in a truck. 

Dutch Quarter

Visit Holland in this delightful quarter of Potsdam.

The Prussian King Friedrich Wilhelm I - the Soldier King and the father of Frederick the Great - wanted to extend his garrison quarters in Potsdam and needed skilled Dutch workers. So he had the Dutch builders already in his service construct the 134 gabled, red-brick houses in Dutch style, attracting further Dutch immigrants.  Nowadays, its streets contain galleries, cafes and antique shops, all you need for a lackadaisical Pottsdammer afternoon.

Sansscouci Palace

See how Frederick the Great lived in his beautiful baroque summer palace and gardens.

In 1744 Frederick built a terraced garden in his Sanssouci Park to cultivate plums, figs and wine on Potsdam’s doorstep. But because the view was so exceptionally beautiful, the king decided to build a large and elegant summer residence above the terraces just a year later.

Neues Palais

Tour a colossal palace building built by Frederick the Great as a demonstration of the Prussian state’s power and wealth.

Neues Palais contrasts hugely with the intimate and rather modest Sanssouci Palace, with its grand banquet halls, sumptuous galleries and regally designed suites, as well as a Baroque palace theater in the southern wing. The last imperial resident was Kaiser Wilhelm II, who fled from there after World War I with much of the palace's furnishings and content.

Day 3

Berlin

Day 4

Berlin to Prague

Day 4

Berlin to Prague

Morning

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.

Café am Neuen See

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

Trödel Markt

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

Wander the Tiergarten and Climb the Victory Column

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Victory Column

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

Café am Neuen See

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

Trödel Markt

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

Wander the Tiergarten and Climb the Victory Column

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Victory Column

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

Morning — Tiergarten

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. 

12:10 PM — 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.

13:16 - 17:36 — 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.

5:36 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.

Early Evening/Evening — 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 4

Berlin to Prague

Day 5

Prague

Day 5

Prague

9:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Royal Route Guided Tour

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.

Charles Bridge

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

Maltese Square & Lennon Wall

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

Prague Castle & Royal Route Guided Walk

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Prague Castle

Prague Castle is one of the main attractions in Prague and is also the largest castle complex in the world.

Charles Bridge

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

Maltese Square & Lennon Wall

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

Prague Castle & Royal Route Guided Walk

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Prague Castle

Prague Castle is one of the main attractions in Prague and is also the largest castle complex in the world.

9:00 AM - 12:30 PM — Royal Route Guided Tour

Prague Castle

Prague Castle is one of the main attractions in Prague and is also the largest castle complex in the world.

The Prague Castle is the largest castle complex in the world with structures dating back to the 9th century. The St Vitus Cathedral and Basilica of St George can be found within the castle walls. The Prague Castle also includes several gardens, palaces, and a monastery. This castle was the seat of power for the Kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman Emperors, and presidents of former Czechoslovakia. Prague Castle is a UNESCO world heritage site and is one of the most visited places in the country. 

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.

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.

Mid-Day to Late Afternoon — Prague Castle

Prague Castle is the most visited destination in Prague, and for good reason. The castle's history stretches back over a 1000 years, and it has served as the seat of government for Bohemian kings, Holy Roman Emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic. The castle sits impressively perched on a hill overlooking the city, providing a breathtaking and romantic view.

St Vitus Cathedral

Venture into a mesmerizing gothic church which is the resting place of saints, Bohemian kings, and Holy Roman emperors .

Located within the castle walls and acting as a symbol of the Czech nation, St Vitus Cathedral is the country's largest and most prominent church. Although construction on the cathedral began in 1344 it was not completed for another 600 years, although the later construction was faithful to the original medieval design. It even contains stained glass windows from the famed Czech artist Alfons Mucha. Entry to the front nave is free, although the crypts and other parts of the church are paid entry.

Golden Lane

Wander a narrow street of brightly painted and picturesque cottages literally built out from the walls of the castle.

The Golden Lane is a street situated within the castle grounds. Originally built in the 16th century to house Rudolf II's castle guards, it takes its name from the goldsmiths that lived there in the 17th century. Throughout history, it's been occupied by castle guards, goldsmiths, and others, including for a short time Franz Kafka. The houses are now filled by shops. 

Strahov Monastery

Wander just slightly off-the-beaten-path to discover a hilltop medieval monastery with a stucco-paneled theological hall, a vast library, and a baroque church.

Strahov Monastery was founded in 1143 and in 1420, during the Hussite wars, it was attacked and plundered by the citizens of Prague. Luckily, this was before the monastery's prize attraction was built; a magnificent library with a magnificently painted ceiling. The monastery also contains a beautiful Baroque church, and you can find one of Prague's best viewpoints in the vineyards planted near its south entrance. 

Lobkowicz Palace

Take an intimate audio tour of an art-filled palace, which is narrated by its owners.

The Lobkowicz Palace is the only privately owned building in the Prague Castle complex. The excellent museum tells the fascinating tale of the noble family that once resided within it. An audio guide is narrated by actual family members, who tell the back story behind the beautiful art and artifacts their ancestors collected over the centuries, and describe their flight to America after Nazi and Communist political persecution. 

Late Afternoon to 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.

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.

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 5

Prague

Day 6

Prague

Day 6

Prague

Morning to Afternoon

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.

Excursion by Train to Karlštejn Castle

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Chapel of the Holy Rood

Tour a closely-guarded and jewel-encrusted chapel decorated with amazing medieval art.

Excursion by Train to Karlštejn Castle

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Chapel of the Holy Rood

Tour a closely-guarded and jewel-encrusted chapel decorated with amazing medieval art.

Excursion by Train to Karlštejn Castle

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Chapel of the Holy Rood

Tour a closely-guarded and jewel-encrusted chapel decorated with amazing medieval art.

Morning to Afternoon — Karlštejn Castle

Chapel of the Holy Rood

Tour a closely-guarded and jewel-encrusted chapel decorated with amazing medieval art.

The most important and impressive part of the castle, the Chapel of the Holy Rood, is open only to special guided tours due to the fact that its walls are literally covered in precious jewels.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — 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 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.

Evening — Žižkov

The "Žižkov Republic" that lies just east of the main train station and north of Vinohrady has always enjoyed an identity separate from Prague's Old Town. Once known as Red Žižkov – because it was so working class and such a Communist party stronghold – today it retains something of its old working class ambiance, although it also is partially on its way to gentrification. As a result, it is flourishing and full of students, artists, and musicians enjoying its relatively cheap rents in comparison to nearby Vinohrady.

Žižkov Television Tower

Reach Prague's highest point by ascending a TV tower with an observatory offering 360-degree views.

Built in the 1980s, the tower stands high above the city's skyline on top of a hill in Žižkov, from which it takes its name. Originally it was less charitably known as "Jake&scaron;'s finger" (Jake&scaron; was the Communist leader of the country at the time). In addition to the viewpoints, there is also a restaurant near the top. Today it is perhaps most famous for the gigantic status of babies crawling their way to the top of the tower.

Day 6

Prague

Day 7

Prague to Vienna

Day 7

Prague to Vienna

Morning/Mid-Day

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.

Vyšehrad Cemetery

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

Fortress Walls Viewpoint

Enjoy stunning city views from atop the fortress walls.

Vyšehrad Fortress; a Favorite of the Locals

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Brick Gate and Casemates

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

Vyšehrad Cemetery

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

Fortress Walls Viewpoint

Enjoy stunning city views from atop the fortress walls.

Vyšehrad Fortress; a Favorite of the Locals

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Brick Gate and Casemates

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

Morning/Mid-Day — Vyšehrad Fortress

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.

Mid-Day/Afternoon — 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.

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.

Late Afternoon — Petřín Park

Petřin Park is Prague's most prominent park, as it is located on the side of a large hill overlooking the city. The park is filled with cherry orchards, beautiful forests, and lawns, and is crisscrossed by numerous paths as well as the medieval Hunger Wall built by Emperor Charles IV. At the top of the park is an Eiffel Tower-like observation tower which provides an unobstructed view of the city.

Petřín Observatory Tower

Ascend the Czech version of the Eiffel Tower for an astounding 360-degree view.

Petřín Observatory Tower is a cast iron observation tower, built in 1891, that resembles the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Although this structure is only 64m tall, because it is built on a hill it is technically higher than the Eiffel Tower. Visitors enjoy a panoramic view of not only the city center, but also the suburbs and countryside surrounding Prague.

Petřín Mirror Labyrinth

Get delightfully lost in a 19th-century, mirrored labyrinth.

This maze of mirrors was created for an 1891 Exhibition, and it was so popular that it is still open today. It is great fun for kids and adults, especially the trick mirrors. There is also a mural showing a battle which took place on the Charles Bridge in 1648. 

Petřín Funicular Railway

Ride an incline railway to the top of the wooded Petřín Hill to discover forest paths and beautiful city views.

This inclined railway takes visitors to the top of Petřín Hill, where they can ascend the Observation Tower or take a walk through the beautiful forest park overlooking Prague. Riders can also get off at the middle station of the railway and visit one of several restaurants overlooking the city.

5:45 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.

18:45 - 22:49 — Train to Vienna

Your scenic journey to Vienna should take about 4 hours. After departing Prague, you will first pass through the rolling countryside of central Bohemia. You will then enter an enchanting region of deep forests and river valleys, followed by the wine-growing region of southern Moravia, and then approach the border to Austria. The passage over the border is interesting when you consider that it used to be a closely guarded and heavily garrisoned no man’s land during Communism. The countryside is relatively flat by Austrian standards but quite pleasant, with a mix of fields, forests, and small lakes. As you enter Vienna, you will pass over a series of islands, forest, and canals as you cross the Danube River.

10:49 PM — Transfer from Rail Station

Most trains arrive in Vienna's Main Station (Wien Hbf) station, but if coming from the west, you may be able to get off at the west station, Wien Westbahnhof, which may also be closer to your hotel. 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. Taxis are available at all rail stations and are generally honest. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

Day 7

Prague to Vienna

Day 8

Vienna

Day 8

Vienna

1:45 PM - 4:15 PM

Guided Walk of the 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.

Guided Walk through Vienna's Inner City

1:45 PM - 4:15 PM — Guided Walk of the Inner City

Morning/Mid-Day — Imperial Vienna

Discover the very heart of the Habsburg Empire that once covered most of central Europe. Within the vast Hofburg Palace complex, which was once home to Austria’s emperors and their administrators, you will find palaces, museums, a famed riding hall, the Austrian national library, and much more. The State Opera House and other major monuments are also nearby. Majestically stunning, the buildings and squares of Imperial Vienna still evoke awe in the observer even if the Empire they were built for is now long gone.

State Opera House

Visit the famous opera house on a guided tour, or better yet, enjoy a world-class performance.

Once the most pre-eminent music hall in the entire Austro-Hungarian Empire, it still dwarfs its surroundings. It was mostly destroyed in bombing during WWII, but the lavish and stunning foyer was encased in a protective structure and saved, and the rest was rebuilt. Just across from the State Opera house is the famous Hotel Sacher, home of the Sachertorte.

Imperial Treasury

See firsthand the treasures collected by Austrian emperors over the last 1,000 years.

The Imperial Treasury is today a museum collection of the secular and religious treasures amassed by the Austrian emporers. You'll see crowns, coronation robes, scepters, bejeweled swords, precious gems, religious relics, and much more. Be sure to get an audio guide.

Spanish Riding School

See an equestrian performance from a world-famous riding school dating back to 1572.

Originally founded in order to train horses for the complicated maneuvers necessary in battle, the riding school today is dedicated to the preservation of classical dressage and the training of the renowned white Lipizzaner stallions. It offers regular demonstrations & shows and is located in the interior of a palace.

Café Central

Dine in an elegant 19th century cafe.

The soaring gothic ceilings and fine cuisine of the Café Central made it the frequent haunt of historic figures such as Freud and Trotsky. Reservations are highly recommended. 

Hofburg Palace

Tour the palaces and courtyards of the massive Hofburg Palace complex.

The complex consists of numerous palaces which once housed the imperial family during the winter months, and also held the offices which were used to administer the state. They now hold museums and collections from the imperial past. There are also grand plazas and pleasant gardens, such as the enchanting Burggarten. 

Late Afternoon to Evening — Inner City

When the Viennese say they are going “into the city”, they are talking about the Inner City (Innere Stadt). The Inner City corresponds to Vienna’s original medieval city, which was once surrounded by defensive walls that stood where the Ringstrasse (Ring Street) now runs. A warren of medieval alleyways crowded into the protected space between the walls, creating a dense network of pedestrian streets that remains to this day.

St. Stephen's Cathedral

Visit this awe-inspiring cathedral which is one of the most important and renowned Gothic buildings in Central Europe.

The cathedral is Vienna’s most famous landmark and dominates the Inner City. Founded in 1147 A.D. and built over hundreds of years, it has elements of both Romanesque and Gothic architecture. You can also climb the (many) steps of the tower for a view.

The Graben

Walk the most famous street in Vienna and see stunning monuments and beautiful architecture.

Vienna’s main street since the Middle Ages, this wide pedestrian boulevard abounds in cafes, smart shops, and atmosphere. There are two fountains and a column (built as thanks for the end of the plague), which are beautiful examples of Baroque architecture. Also hidden on the street is the world's most beautiful public restroom.

Mozarthaus

Get to know Mozart in his former apartment, where he spent his happiest years.

Despite his modern-day association with Salzburg, Mozart's time in Vienna was his most productive and happy. Here you can learn about Mozart and what life was like for him and others in the city at the time. You can listen to musical selections and see original scores and other materials. 

Peterskirche (Church of St. Peter)

Step into this heavenly 18th-century church featuring incredibly ornate baroque art & architecture.

This church from the early 1700's is Vienna’s first domed baroque building. Amazing architectural details are crammed into the small interior, and glass crypts contain the human remains of martyred saints. There are daily organ recitals in the church.

Jewish Museum

Discover Vienna's rich history of Jewish life.

The museum is located in two separate buildings within the Inner City (one ticket covers both). The branch on the Judenplatz showcases medieval Jewish life, including a virtual tour of life in the 14th century. It is fronted by a monumental Holocaust Memorial. The main branch is located on the street Dorotheergasse.  

Day 8

Vienna

Day 9

Vienna

Day 9

Vienna

Early Morning to Early Evening

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.

Spitz

Stop to taste the wine in a postcard-pretty town surrounded by vineyards.

Dürnstein

Explore the twisting narrow lanes of this delightful monastery town.

Dürnstein Castle Ruins

Hike to the dramatic ruins of a medieval castle built in 1100's.

Danube Cruise in the Scenic Wachau Valley

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Melk Abbey

Tour a huge and splendid Baroque monastery.

Spitz

Stop to taste the wine in a postcard-pretty town surrounded by vineyards.

Dürnstein

Explore the twisting narrow lanes of this delightful monastery town.

Dürnstein Castle Ruins

Hike to the dramatic ruins of a medieval castle built in 1100's.

Danube Cruise in the Scenic Wachau Valley

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Melk Abbey

Tour a huge and splendid Baroque monastery.

Spitz

Stop to taste the wine in a postcard-pretty town surrounded by vineyards.

Early Morning to Early Evening — Wachau Valley

Melk Abbey

Tour a huge and splendid Baroque monastery.

Founded in 1089 when the Austrian duke gave one of his castles to Benedictine monks, Melk Abbey is now both a place of pilgrimage and a major tourist attraction. Visitors come for the museum of religious artifacts, the jaw-dropping library, and the sublime church. The town square below the abbey is also a great place for a meal or wine.

Spitz

Stop to taste the wine in a postcard-pretty town surrounded by vineyards.

Spitz is a favorite stop due to its bucolic atmosphere and abundance of wine taverns and restaurants. It is also home to the Tausendeimerberg or "House of a Thousand Buckets" (so named for the abundance of wine fields) and the castle ruins of Hinterhaus, which make for a nice (if steep) hike from the village.

Dürnstein

Explore the twisting narrow lanes of this delightful monastery town.

Named for the castle that overlooks it, Dürnstein is probably the most-visited stop in the Wachau valley. Reached by an ancient tunnel leading from the boat docks,  it is well-known for its wine as well as the beautiful blue church tower of its Augustinian monastery. 

Dürnstein Castle Ruins

Hike to the dramatic ruins of a medieval castle built in 1100's.

The hike leading to the castle is steep, but the amazing view you are rewarded with makes it all worth while. The fascinating ruins are extensive and can be freely explored. The castle was made famous by its most illustrious prisoner, King Richard the Lionhearted of England, who was held there for ransom.

Day 9

Vienna

Day 10

Vienna

Day 10

Vienna

Early Morning/Morning

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.

Schönbrunn Zoo

Join local families enjoying one of Europe's best zoos.

Schönbrunn Gardens

Get lost in the huge imperial gardens.

Tour the Schönbrunn Palace

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Schönbrunn Zoo

Join local families enjoying one of Europe's best zoos.

Schönbrunn Gardens

Get lost in the huge imperial gardens.

Tour the Schönbrunn Palace

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Schönbrunn Zoo

Join local families enjoying one of Europe's best zoos.

Early Morning/Morning — Schönbrunn Palace

Schönbrunn Zoo

Join local families enjoying one of Europe's best zoos.

With an entrance directly connected to the Schönbrunn palace gardens, visiting the zoo can be a great addition to any trip to the palace. Founded as an imperial menagerie in 1752, it is the oldest continually operated zoo in the world, and today is home to many rare species such as giant pandas.

Schönbrunn Gardens

Get lost in the huge imperial gardens.

The beautiful park is a mix of formal gardens and woodlands, and is dotted with enchanting statues & fountains, including a massive fountain of Neptune. The Gloriette pavilion sits on a rise opposite the palace and commands a wonderful view. Kids will love the labyrinth, racing to find the tower at the center of the maze.

Afternoon to Early Evening — Ring Street

The Ringstrasse, or the Ring Street, surrounds Vienna's old town where the city walls once stood until the 19th century. The Austro-Hungarian Empire was at the height of its prosperity at the time the walls were torn down, and so it lined the wide Ringstrasse with monumental buildings such as the neo-Gothic town hall and neo-Classical parliament buildling. A fun experience is to take a tram ride around the entire length of the Ringstrasse, soaking in the full richness of the spectacle.

Rathaus (City Hall)

Get in touch with the local vibe at the Rathausplatz, a huge square in front of the Vienna City Hall.

The 19th-century city hall was built in a fanciful neo-Gothic style with 30 million bricks. It is an important center for social life in the city, hosting balls, concerts, and other events. The square in front of the hall is home to activities all year long, including markets, food fairs, exhibitions, and the city's biggest Christmas Market. 

Natural History Museum

Explore one of the world's most important natural history collections.

The museum is a treasure trove of anthropological and archeological exhibits, including dinosaurs and other extinct animals, precious gems, and more. It also holds the famous pre-historic finds from the Austrian village of Hallstatt, where an ancient salt mine was located.

Kunsthistorisches Museum

Find artistic bliss in this lavish 19th-century museum housing art collections & antiquities.

The Kunsthistorisches Museum, or Art History Museum, is one of the world's most important collections of art. It houses many masterpieces as well as ancient and classical art antiquities. Its amazing interior is worth seeing just on its own merits, and includes an incredible mural painted by Gustav Klimt.

Early Evening/Evening — Spittelberg Quarter

One of the most enjoyable places for an evening out in Vienna is the Spittelberg quarter. Its narrow lanes are filled with pleasant traditional restaurants. The Spittelberg Quarter’s history stretches back to the 1600’s when the Austrian rulers imported artisans and servants from Hungary, Croatia, and other subject lands to help serve the Emperor’s court.

Day 10

Vienna

Day 11

Depart Vienna

Day 11

Depart Vienna

What's Included in the Palaces of Central Europe Trip Trip?

Pre-Paid Tours and Activities:

Highlights of Berlin Guided Walking Tour
Prague Castle & Royal Route Guided Walk
Guided Walk through Vienna's Inner City
City Card for Berlin, including discounts to many popular attractions

Pre-Paid Transportation:

2nd Class Train Tickets from Berlin to Prague
2nd Class Train Tickets from Prague to Vienna
Public Transport Tickets for Berlin and Vienna

Accommodation:

3 nights at a hotel of your choice in Berlin
3 nights at a hotel of your choice in Prague
4 nights at a hotel of your choice in Vienna

Go Real Travel Mobile App:

Itinerary Plan & Reservations Info
Points of Interest
Detailed Travel Information
Maps & Directions

Other Trips You May Like

12 Days

From$2449USD

12 Days in the Heart of Central Europe: Berlin, Prague, Vienna, and Munich

Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Munich

View Trip

2-Week Journey Through Central & Eastern Europe: History

14 Days

From$2875USD

2-Week Journey Through Central & Eastern Europe: History

Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Krakow

View Trip

Timeless Central Europe:: From Berlin to Vienna through the Czech Republic

15 Days

From$3249USD

Timeless Central Europe:: From Berlin to Vienna through the Czech Republic

Berlin, Dresden, Prague, Cesky Krumlov, Vienna

View Trip

Jewels of Europe: Art, History and Waterways in Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, Prague, Vienna & Budapest

21 Days

From$5789USD

Jewels of Europe: Art, History and Waterways in Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, Prague, Vienna & Budapest

Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Budapest

View Trip

Discover Eastern Europe: 10-Day Journey through Prague, Dresden, and Berlin

10 Days

From$1925USD

Discover Eastern Europe: 10-Day Journey through Prague, Dresden, and Berlin

Prague, Berlin

View Trip

Exploring the Best of east Germany and Prague In One Week

7 Days

From$1195USD

Exploring the Best of east Germany and Prague In One Week

Berlin, Prague

View Trip

7 Days

From$1495USD

One Week in Berlin & Prague: See the Highlights and Experience the Local Scene

Berlin, Prague

View Trip

Enchanting Vienna & Prague One Week Itinerary

7 Days

From$1170USD

Enchanting Vienna & Prague One Week Itinerary

Vienna, Prague

View Trip

Capitals, Canals, and Castles: A 9-Day Tour of Amsterdam, Berlin, and Prague

9 Days

From$2240USD

Capitals, Canals, and Castles: A 9-Day Tour of Amsterdam, Berlin, and Prague

Amsterdam, Berlin, Prague

View Trip

Featured Blogs

Europe

Travel solo

Flying Solo: The Best Places to Travel Alone in Europe

Europe

Seasonal guide

10 European Cities to Visit in Winter

Prague

Nightlife

13 Most Happening Things to Do in Prague at Night

Prague

Cheap

18 Cheap and Free Things to do in Prague

Prague

Why visit

Top 10 Reasons to Visit Prague

Prague

Day trips

10 Most Amazing Day Trips From Prague in 2024

Germany

Trip planning

How to Plan a Trip to Germany – Step-by-Step Guide

Our Customers Say It Best

See our reviews on

facebook

Read the full reviews here

Malini Dutta, Boston, Massachusetts

We can't thank you enough for the detailed plans, maps, and suggestions. It really felt that someone was holding our hands and showing us around. We had all the excitement of discovering foreign lands, with none of the problems that can happen while negotiating unfamiliar places. In fact, all the cities felt like home within a few hours of arriving and exploring.

Bev and Mark Frankel, Williamsburg, Virginia

We could not be more pleased with Go Real Travel! You took the guess work out of things like public transport but still managed to allow us the freedom to tour as we wanted. Our guides were exceptional and every time I saw a Viking Cruise tour of 25 people, I realized the quality experience we were getting with Go Real.

Marianne Strydom, Paarl, South Africa

I just wanted to thank you for organizing an amazing trip for me – I packed in so much in such a short period of time and everything was just perfect. The way you do things makes it possible to really get to know the destination, which for me as a travel agent could not have been better.

Otto Chuy, Los Angeles, California

I am still surprised how everything worked as planned, without a hitch. All instructions in your itinerary were precise and correct. Your suggestions and comments in each of the locations we went to were very helpful. All your guides, without exception, were wonderful and exactly on time.

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

Vienna

Artistic and musical, historical and elegant, Vienna is the definition of class. The seat of the Habsburg monarchy for over six centuries, it's no wonder this city is still fit for royalty. Baroque buildings and imperial palaces dominate the cityscape, while locals stride gracefully through the streets, likely on their way to a classical music concert or art exhibition. Visitors from all over the world flock to Schonbrunn Palace, historical museums, and local eateries for authentic Viennese schnitzel. Vienna is also home to world-class wining and dining. Famous dishes include Wiener schnitzel, Tafelspitz (prime boiled beef), and apfelstrudel (apple strudel), all of which pair well with a glass of fine Austrian wine. No matter how long you spend in Vienna, you'll leave with a new appreciation for the finer things in life.

Learn About Vienna

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

11 Day Itinerary in Berlin, Prague & Vienna: Castles, Palaces, and Much More

11 Day Tour of Berlin, Prague and Vienna

How Long Is the Palaces of Central Europe Trip and What Does It Cost?

$2045

Secure Your Customizable Trip Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Craft Your Own Itinerary Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.

Where Does the Palaces of Central Europe Trip Trip Go?

Palaces of Central Europe Trip Timeline

What Does the Palaces of Central Europe Trip Itinerary Look Like?

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

Afternoon — Museum Island

Pergamonmuseum

Neues Museum

Berliner Dom

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Iconic Berlin

Brandenburg Gate

Reichstag

Sony Center

Holocaust Memorial

Potsdam

Morning to Late Afternoon — Potsdam

Bridge of Spies

Dutch Quarter

Sansscouci Palace

Neues Palais

Tiergarten

Morning — Tiergarten

Victory Column

Café am Neuen See

Trödel Markt

12:10 PM — Transfer to Rail Station

13:16 - 17:36 — Train to Prague

5:36 PM — Transfer from Rail Station

Early Evening/Evening — Evening Boat Cruise

Royal Route Guided Tour

9:00 AM - 12:30 PM — Royal Route Guided Tour

Prague Castle

Charles Bridge

Maltese Square & Lennon Wall

Mid-Day to Late Afternoon — Prague Castle

St Vitus Cathedral

Golden Lane

Strahov Monastery

Lobkowicz Palace

Late Afternoon to Evening — The Little Quarter

Charles Bridge

Church of St. Nicholas

Wallenstein Garden

Maltese Square & Lennon Wall

Infant Jesus of Prague

Karlštejn Castle

Morning to Afternoon — Karlštejn Castle

Chapel of the Holy Rood

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Old Town

Old Town Square

Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock

Secure Your Customizable Trip
Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Craft Your Own Itinerary
Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.