Austria and Prague Christmas & New Year Trip

Tuesday, December 26: Arrival in Vienna

Start your trip in the beautiful city of Vienna. In the morning, visit the iconic Schönbrunn Palace, a Baroque masterpiece. Explore the gardens and enjoy the stunning views of the city. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the historic center of Vienna, visiting St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace. In the evening, experience the magic of Vienna's Christmas markets, where you can indulge in delicious food and mulled wine.

• Schönbrunn Palace: Estimated cost - €16, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• St. Stephen's Cathedral: Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Hofburg Palace: Estimated cost - €14, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Vienna Christmas markets: Cost of food and drinks, Estimated time spent - evening

Wednesday, December 27: Salzburg

Take a day trip to Salzburg, known for its stunning Alpine scenery and rich history. In the morning, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, visiting Mozart's birthplace and the Mirabell Palace gardens. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to the Hohensalzburg Fortress for panoramic views. In the evening, grab a hot drink at one of the Christmas markets and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

• Salzburg Old Town: Free, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Mozart's birthplace: Estimated cost - €11, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Mirabell Palace gardens: Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Hohensalzburg Fortress: Estimated cost - €15, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Salzburg Christmas markets: Cost of food and drinks, Estimated time spent - evening

Thursday, December 28: Vienna to Prague

Travel from Vienna to the enchanting city of Prague. In the morning, explore Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle complex in the world. Admire the stunning architecture and visit St. Vitus Cathedral. In the afternoon, stroll across the historic Charles Bridge and explore the charming streets of the Old Town. In the evening, enjoy traditional Czech cuisine and try famous Czech beer.

• Prague Castle: Estimated cost - CZK 350, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• St. Vitus Cathedral: Estimated cost - CZK 350, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Charles Bridge: Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Old Town: Free, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Czech cuisine: Cost of food and drinks, Estimated time spent - evening

Friday, December 29: Prague

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Prague. In the morning, visit the Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square and climb the tower for panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the Jewish Quarter and learn about its rich history. Visit the iconic Charles Bridge again in the evening to experience its magical atmosphere at night.

• Astronomical Clock: Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Jewish Quarter: Estimated cost - CZK 480 (includes entry to Jewish Museum), Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Charles Bridge: Free, Estimated time spent - evening

Saturday, December 30: Vienna

Return to Vienna for more exploration. In the morning, visit Belvedere Palace and admire its impressive art collection. In the afternoon, explore the Naschmarkt, a bustling market offering a variety of local and international foods. In the evening, enjoy a classical music concert, a quintessential Vienna experience.

• Belvedere Palace: Estimated cost - €22, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Naschmarkt: Cost of food and drinks, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Classical music concert: Estimated cost - €50-100, Estimated time spent - evening

Sunday, December 31: New Year's Eve Celebration in Vienna

Celebrate New Year's Eve in Vienna. In the morning, take a leisurely walk in the Prater Park and ride the Giant Ferris Wheel. In the afternoon, visit the Hundertwasser House, an architectural gem. In the evening, join the festivities at the New Year's Eve concert in Rathausplatz Square and enjoy the spectacular fireworks at midnight.

• Prater Park: Entrance to park is free, Estimated cost for Giant Ferris Wheel - €10, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Hundertwasser House: Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• New Year's Eve concert: Free, Estimated time spent - evening
• Fireworks at Rathausplatz Square: Free, Estimated time spent - midnight

Monday, January 1: Departure

After a fantastic trip, depart from Vienna and head back home with wonderful memories of your Christmas and New Year's adventure in Austria and Prague.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Vienna, don't miss out on visiting the Belvedere Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the city offering beautiful views and art installations. In Prague, escape the crowds and visit Letná Park, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and relax in a picturesque setting.