12-Day Historical and Cultural European Tour: Budapest, Vienna, and Czech Republic

Day 1: Arrival & Budapest Intro

Budapest, Hungary on September 6, 2025

2:00pm

Arrive in Budapest

Arrive at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport and take a taxi or public transport to your accommodation to check-in.
EUR0, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Buda Castle Hill

Explore the historical Buda Castle complex including the old royal palace and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Danube River and Pest side; entry to castle grounds is free.
EUR0, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Fakanál Restaurant

Enjoy affordable and delicious traditional Hungarian cuisine in the Castle District, try goulash or chicken paprikash.
EUR10-15, 1.5h

8:00pm

Danube River Evening Walk

Take a stroll along the Danube Promenade to see the illuminated Parliament building, Chain Bridge, and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
EUR0, 1h

Day 2: Budapest Historical Sites

Budapest, Hungary on September 7, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café Csiga

Start your day with a Hungarian breakfast including pastries, coffee, and fresh juices at this budget-friendly local cafe.
EUR5-7, 1h

9:30am

Hungarian Parliament Building Tour

Book an early guided tour of this magnificent Neo-Gothic building; explore the grand halls and view the Hungarian crown jewels.
EUR10, 1.5h

11:30am

Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica

Explore this iconic Catholic church noted for its stunning architecture and the relic of St. Stephen’s mummified right hand; entry is free but dome access has a fee.
EUR0/price for dome access varies, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Bors GasztroBár

Popular for affordable and tasty street food including unique sandwiches and soups in the Jewish Quarter.
EUR5-8, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Heroes’ Square and City Park

Discover Budapest’s grandest square with historical statues and then relax or walk through the adjacent scenic City Park, free entry.
EUR0, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Vajdahunyad Castle

Located inside City Park, admire this fairy-tale castle showcasing various architectural styles; perfect for photos and short walks.
EUR0, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Paprika

Enjoy affordable traditional Hungarian dishes with a cozy atmosphere near City Park.
EUR10-15, 1.5h

8:30pm

Live Music at A38 Ship

Experience Budapest’s famous live music venue on a converted ship along the Danube, known for jazz, rock, and world music performances.
EUR10-15, 2h

Day 3: Budapest & Travel to Vienna

Budapest, Hungary on September 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Szimply

Taste modern and healthy breakfast options with a local twist in the city center.
EUR7-10, 1h

9:00am

Visit Matthias Church & Fisherman's Bastion

Explore this beautiful Gothic Catholic church and the adjacent bastion with panoramic views of the city and Danube.
EUR4 for Matthias Church interior, 2h

11:30am

Walk through the Central Market Hall

Browse and sample local produce and street eats in this large indoor marketplace.
EUR0, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Market Hall food stalls

Try Hungarian specialties such as lángos (fried dough) and other affordable local snack foods.
EUR5-8, 1h

2:00pm

Train to Vienna

Take a direct train from Budapest to Vienna (approx. 2.5-3 hours); travel in comfort via ÖBB or MÁV, use local transport in Vienna upon arrival.
EUR20-30, 3h

6:00pm

Check into accommodation & freshen up

Relax after arriving in Vienna and prepare for exploring the city tomorrow.
EUR0, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Gasthaus Pöschl

Enjoy traditional Viennese cuisine such as Wiener Schnitzel in a cozy, affordable setting.
EUR10-15, 1.5h

Day 4: Vienna Historic Exploration

Vienna, Austria on September 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Sperl

Kick off your day in a classic Viennese coffee house with coffee and traditional pastries.
EUR7-10, 1h

9:00am

Tour Hofburg Palace

Explore the former imperial palace with museums, old apartments, and the Imperial Chapel with live Sunday Mass if interested (9:00am-5:30pm, closed Mondays).
EUR15, 2.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Naschmarkt Food Stalls

Sample international and Austrian street food at Vienna’s famous market, perfect for affordable lunch options.
EUR6-10, 1h

1:30pm

Visit St. Stephen's Cathedral

Marvel at the Gothic cathedral in the city center; entrance to the cathedral is free, with paid tower climbs and catacombs tours available.
EUR0, 1.5h

3:30pm

Walk along the Ringstrasse

Enjoy a tram or walking tour of Vienna’s grand boulevard lined with historic buildings, parks, and monuments.
EUR1.50 for tram ticket, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Wiener Wiazhaus

Dine on traditional, reasonably priced Austrian dishes in a rustic wine tavern popular with locals.
EUR12-18, 1.5h

8:00pm

Live Classical Music Concert

Attend an affordable classical music concert in the city, for example at Musikverein or smaller venues (check schedules in advance).
EUR15-25, 2h

Day 5: Vienna Palaces & Parks

Vienna, Austria on September 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Landtmann

Enjoy Viennese coffee culture in this elegant, historic café with pastries and breakfast dishes.
EUR8-12, 1h

9:00am

Visit Schönbrunn Palace Gardens

Explore the beautiful gardens for free and opt to tour the palace interior if desired (9:00am - 5:00pm).
EUR0 for gardens, EUR20 for palace tour, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Glacis Beisl

Tucked behind MuseumsQuartier, this friendly restaurant offers affordable seasonal Austrian dishes in a garden setting.
EUR10-15, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Belvedere Palace Grounds

Walk the extensive gardens and park areas around the Baroque Belvedere palaces for free; optional museum entry.
EUR0 gardens, museum EUR15, 2h

4:30pm

Relax at Stadtpark

Enjoy this iconic city park famous for the Johann Strauss monument and peaceful nature walks.
EUR0, 1h

6:00pm

Affordable dinner at Zum Figlmüller

Savor one of Vienna’s best and most affordable schnitzels at this popular eatery near the city center.
EUR15-20, 1.5h

Day 6: Vienna Morning & Travel to Znojmo

Vienna to Znojmo, Czech Republic on September 11, 2025

7:30am

Quick breakfast at a local bakery

Grab some pastries, coffee, or light sandwiches from a nearby bakery before leaving Vienna.
EUR3-5, 30m

8:30am

Depart Vienna for Znojmo by train

Take regional train via Retz or nearby routes; travel time approx. 2.5-3 hours with scenic countryside views.
EUR15-20, 3h

12:00pm

Check-in and lunch at U Tří knížat

Located in Znojmo town center, enjoy traditional Czech food at reasonable prices.
EUR10-12, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Znojmo Old Town

Visit the charming town with medieval streets, old town hall, and city walls; free walking tour recommended.
EUR0, 2h

3:30pm

Visit St. Nicholas Church

Explore this Gothic Catholic church known for its beautiful architecture and interior art.
EUR0, 1h

5:00pm

Rest & prepare for the festival

Relax back at your accommodation and get ready for the upcoming Vintage Festival events.
EUR0, 1h

7:00pm

Evening at Znojmo Historical Vintage Festival Opening

Enjoy live music, vintage displays, and local wines in this famous festival running through 12th-14th September.
EUR0-5 for events, 3h

Day 7: Znojmo Vintage Festival

Znojmo, Czech Republic on September 12, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café Ditta

Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee at this local café to start your festival day.
EUR5-7, 1h

10:00am

Attend Vintage Festival Events

Participate in exhibitions, vintage car shows, and wine tastings throughout the day around the town.
Mostly free; some tastings EUR5-10, 5h

3:00pm

Lunch at Restaurant Šatlava

Try hearty Czech dishes that complement the festival vibe, including local wines.
EUR10-15, 1h

4:30pm

More festival activities & live music

Enjoy additional concerts and cultural shows as the festival continues into the evening.
Included, 3h

8:00pm

Dinner at Pension pod Radnici

Relax with a filling traditional Czech meal in a friendly guesthouse environment after the festival excitement.
EUR10-12, 1.5h

Day 8: Znojmo Festival & Explore Nature

Znojmo, Czech Republic on September 13, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Pension pod Radnici

Enjoy a simple, hearty breakfast at your accommodation to prepare for the day's activities.
EUR5, 1h

9:30am

Visit Znojmo Catacombs

Explore medieval underground passages connecting the old town, offering a unique glimpse into local history.
EUR4, 1.5h

11:30am

Walk along Dyje River Nature Trail

Take a relaxing nature walk along the scenic Dyje riverbank close to Znojmo; perfect for fresh air and photos.
EUR0, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Cantina

Casual dining with affordable Czech and international dishes near the town center.
EUR8-12, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Festival for last day events

Join closing festivities, wine tastings, and vintage rides; soak up the lively atmosphere.
EUR0-5, 4h

7:30pm

Dinner at Konrad

Enjoy a cozy dinner featuring local beers and hearty meals in a historic wine cellar ambiance.
EUR12-18, 1.5h

Day 9: Travel to Prague

Znojmo to Prague, Czech Republic on September 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Ditta

Grab a quick yet tasty breakfast before heading to Prague.
EUR5-7, 45m

9:00am

Train from Znojmo to Prague

Travel by train via Brno, travel time approx. 3.5 to 4 hours; enjoy scenic views during this comfortable journey.
EUR20-30, 4h

1:00pm

Check-in & Lunch near Old Town

Settle into your Prague accommodation and have lunch at a local bistro offering Czech fare at moderate prices.
EUR10-15, 1h

2:30pm

Old Town Square & Astronomical Clock

Explore the historic Old Town Square including the famous astronomical clock; open air and free access.
EUR0, 2h

4:30pm

Walk Charles Bridge

Stroll this iconic 14th-century stone bridge adorned with statues, connecting Old Town and Lesser Town.
EUR0, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Mlejnice

Enjoy affordable traditional Czech food with a rustic interior located near Old Town Square.
EUR10-15, 1.5h

Day 10: Prague Castles & Churches

Prague, Czech Republic on September 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Savoy

Start your day with a rich breakfast in an elegant, historic café known for great pastries and coffee.
EUR10-12, 1h

9:30am

Prague Castle Complex

Visit the castle grounds and interiors including St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, and Golden Lane; spend a good half day exploring.
EUR15 for entry, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Kuchyň

Dine near the castle with views over the city; affordable Czech dishes served fresh daily.
EUR12-18, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Church of St. Nicholas (Malá Strana)

Explore this magnificent Baroque Catholic church with impressive frescoes and architecture.
EUR0-3 donation, 1h

4:30pm

Leisure walk in Petrin Park & Tower

Enjoy nature trails and climb the Petrin Lookout Tower, offering excellent panoramic views of Prague.
EUR0 park, EUR5 tower, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Lokál Dlouhááá

End your day with affordable traditional Czech meals and fresh pilsner in a lively local pub.
EUR10-15, 1.5h

Day 11: Prague Free Day & Local Experiences

Prague, Czech Republic on September 16, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Můj šálek kávy

Enjoy quality coffee and light breakfast in this trendy specialty coffee shop.
EUR5-7, 1h

9:30am

Visit Vyšehrad Fortress

Explore this historic fort with breathtaking views over the Vltava River, free entry to grounds and historic cemetery.
EUR0, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at U Kroka

Known for great local cuisine at affordable prices just outside the city center.
EUR10-15, 1h

2:00pm

Explore National Gallery outdoor sculpture garden

Walk and relax among sculptures and installations in the garden; free to wander around.
EUR0, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Lennon Wall and Kampa Island

Discover the colorful Lennon Wall and enjoy the peaceful Kampa park area nearby.
EUR0, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at Eska

Experience modern Czech cuisine in a stylish setting offering good value seasonal dishes.
EUR15-20, 1.5h

Day 12: Final Prague Day

Prague, Czech Republic on September 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Louvre

Enjoy a historic café atmosphere with a traditional breakfast to start your last day.
EUR7-10, 1h

9:30am

Jewish Quarter (Josefov) Tour

Visit the historic synagogues, Jewish Museum, and Old Jewish Cemetery; a moving cultural and architectural experience.
EUR15, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Mlejnice or nearby

Return to favorite local spot for a final hearty Czech meal.
EUR10-15, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Letná Park

Enjoy your last afternoon in Prague with views over the city from Letná Park, an ideal nature spot for reflection and photos.
EUR0, 2h

4:00pm

Packing and check-out

Prepare for your departure with ample time to reach the airport.
EUR0, 1h

5:00pm

Transfer to Prague Airport

Use public transit or taxi to Prague Václav Havel Airport for Emirates flight departure at 4:00pm on 18th September.
EUR5-15, 45m