The Best of Central Europe: Prague, Vienna, and Budapest

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Fly into: Prague Fly out of: Budapest

Total Duration: 9 Days

These are the pillars of Central Europe. Prague is the centerpiece, beautifully preserved, walkable, and full of mysterious cobblestone side streets. Vienna is the stately big brother, officious, Hapsburgian, and old-school, from the desserts to the Opera. Budapest is still the scruffy upstart, 20 years after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, and the vibrant nightlife and traditional bathhouses make it the most foreign and inscrutable of the three.

This Trip's Top Experiences:

History
Art and Culture
Great Train Ride

Days 1-3

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1 Prague

One of Europe's Most Beautiful Cities

Sitting above the city is Prague castle; trek here for a beautiful view or to explore St. Vitus' Cathedral
In the Old Town, wander through the Jewish Quarter and visit the cemetery, which dates to the 15th century
Czech beer is justly famous; try a brew at an old-fashioned pub

Art and Culture
History

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Days 4-6

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2 Vienna

Palaces and Pastries

From the Ringstrasse to the Opera, Vienna is full of imperial splendor
Explore the cobblestone streets of Innere Stadt and St. Stephen's Cathedral
At one of the city's opulent coffeehouses, try a pasty or fuel up with an espresso

Food and Wine
History

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Days 7-9

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3 Budapest

Bathhouses and Bridges

Things can get steamy at one of the city's many bathhouses; try the recently renovated Rudás or traditional Gellért
The shopping can't be beat on Vaci utca and Andrássy út
See the renaissance delights on Castle Hill, a UNESCO Heritage Site

Art and Culture
Shopping

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