Enchanting Central Europe: Prague, Salzburg, Vienna, and Budapest

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

One of several grand squares in the center of Altstadt in Salzburg.

One of several grand squares in the center of Altstadt in Salzburg. In the Mozartplatz you can find a statue of the famous composer.

Visit Salzburg's largest and most impressive church.

The current cathedral was built between 1614-1628 and is a masterpiece of baroque architecture. The cathedral was largely destroyed by an Allied bomb in WWII but was restored by 1959. One of the most significant treasures in the cathedral is the Baptismal Font, which was cast in 1321 and rests on copper lions dating back to the 1100s.

Guided Walking Tour of Salzburg

Salzburg is simply overwhelming in all the best ways. It is alive with fascinating history, grandiose and sublime architecture fills every street and square, culture and music permeate the atmosphere, and it is surrounded by breath-taking natural scenery. This guided tour with a local will provide the context needed to bring all of this beauty into perspective, and to connect the physical city to its history, culture, and environment.

One of several grand squares in the center of Altstadt in Salzburg.

One of several grand squares in the center of Altstadt in Salzburg. In the Mozartplatz you can find a statue of the famous composer.

Hellbrunn Palace

Built as a summer palace by Salzburg's Prince-Bishop, the Hellbrunn Palace is a picturesque palace surrounded by even more beautiful gardens.  The early baroque palace was built exclusively for the purpose of entertainment, as the Prince-Bishop would actually return to Salzburg in the evening.  It can be toured with an audio guide and includes several beautiful frescoed ceilings. There is a great deal to discover in the gardens - hidden grottos, clever statues, reflecting pools, as well as flora and fauna. And the trick fountains are a must for every visit. Both the transportation (bus #25) and the entry are covered by the Salzburg Card.

Get a little wet in this delightful garden of tricks.

The famous "Wasserspiele" are trick water fountains that never fail to delight, astonish, and befuddle. The fountains were actually built with the express purpose of playing practical jokes on guests, and they continue to provide plenty of amusement today.

Hellbrunn Palace

Built as a summer palace by Salzburg's Prince-Bishop, the Hellbrunn Palace is a picturesque palace surrounded by even more beautiful gardens.  The early baroque palace was built exclusively for the purpose of entertainment, as the Prince-Bishop would actually return to Salzburg in the evening.  It can be toured with an audio guide and includes several beautiful frescoed ceilings. There is a great deal to discover in the gardens - hidden grottos, clever statues, reflecting pools, as well as flora and fauna. And the trick fountains are a must for every visit. Both the transportation (bus #25) and the entry are covered by the Salzburg Card.

Get a little wet in this delightful garden of tricks.

The famous "Wasserspiele" are trick water fountains that never fail to delight, astonish, and befuddle. The fountains were actually built with the express purpose of playing practical jokes on guests, and they continue to provide plenty of amusement today.

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 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 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 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.

Stroll the Belvedere's gardens, and venture inside the palace for a "Kiss".

Two Baraque palaces are connected by a French-style, three-level garden which features delightful fountains. Originally built as a summer residence of Prince Eugene, it now houses the Belvedere Museum where you will find Gustav Klimt's most famous work - The Kiss.

Many argue that this baroque church is as beautiful as St. Peter's - see it and decide for yourself.

Built between 1716-1737, Emperor Charles VI intended the church to be a thanksgiving for the end of a plague epidemic and dedicated the church to St. Charles Borromeo, who is revered for his care of plague victims. St. Charles was also his namesake, meaning that the church's name evokes the emperor's memory as much as the saint's, which was no accident. Indeed, the two columns in front of the church are meant to represent imperial power.

Karlskirche & Belvedere Palace

Two of Vienna's greatest architectural treasures lie just beyond the Ring Street - the Belvedere Palace and the Karlskirche (St. Charles's Church). Often missed by visitors, these Baroque wonders represent Austria at the peak of its prestige and power and deserve to be on every visitor's list.

Stroll the Belvedere's gardens, and venture inside the palace for a "Kiss".

Two Baraque palaces are connected by a French-style, three-level garden which features delightful fountains. Originally built as a summer residence of Prince Eugene, it now houses the Belvedere Museum where you will find Gustav Klimt's most famous work - The Kiss.

Take a fifteen-minute trip back in time on a 212-foot ferris wheel, enjoying breathtaking views over the roofs of the city.

The 'Wiener Riesenrad' was constructed in 1897 and is now a symbol of Vienna. It held the record of the world's tallest Ferris wheel from 1920 until 1985. It's surrounded by a famous amusement park, where you'll find carousels, swings, roller coasters, and haunted houses, as well as coffee houses and beer gardens.

See an entirely different idea for what makes a good apartment building.

This extraordinary apartment building with a colorful facade was completed in 1985. It features a grass-covered roof and trees growing out of rooms. It was created by the artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. As the building is inhabited, it can be viewed only from the outside but in the art café on the ground floor you can watch a free video film, where the artist guides you through his masterpiece.

Hundertwasser Haus

The charming and unusual Hundertwasserhaus is one of Austria's architectural highlights. The colorful building represents a harmonic place where human beings and nature can live together with equal rights. Just a short walk away is the Prater, a large and pleasant public park. You can make your through the park to Vienna's oldest fun park, which is home to a towering Ferris wheel called the Wiener Riesenrad.

Take a fifteen-minute trip back in time on a 212-foot ferris wheel, enjoying breathtaking views over the roofs of the city.

The 'Wiener Riesenrad' was constructed in 1897 and is now a symbol of Vienna. It held the record of the world's tallest Ferris wheel from 1920 until 1985. It's surrounded by a famous amusement park, where you'll find carousels, swings, roller coasters, and haunted houses, as well as coffee houses and beer gardens.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Taxi Transfer to Airport

Budapest has one main airport, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, where almost all visitors depart. Your hotel can arrange a reliable taxi (there is no Uber in Budapest). You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about two hours and forty-five minutes before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with about two hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.

Taxi Transfer to Airport

Budapest has one main airport, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, where almost all visitors depart. Your hotel can arrange a reliable taxi (there is no Uber in Budapest). You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about two hours and forty-five minutes before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with about two hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.

Taxi Transfer to Airport

Budapest has one main airport, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, where almost all visitors depart. Your hotel can arrange a reliable taxi (there is no Uber in Budapest). You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about two hours and forty-five minutes before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with about two hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.

Taxi Transfer to Airport

Budapest has one main airport, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, where almost all visitors depart. Your hotel can arrange a reliable taxi (there is no Uber in Budapest). You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about two hours and forty-five minutes before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with about two hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.