Epic Rail Journey Through Austria, Slovakia, and Slovenia on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Welcome to Vienna

Vienna, Austria

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café Central

Start your journey with a delicious Viennese breakfast paired with a melange at one of the city's most famous cafés.
Located in the Innere Stadt, this café is easily accessible by foot.
EUR 10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Schönbrunn Palace

Wander through the stunning gardens and the iconic palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Austria's imperial history.
Take tram 49 from the café to the Schönbrunn stop; approximately 20 minutes.
EUR 15, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at the Naschmarkt

Sample local delicacies and international cuisine at this vibrant market, where you can savor some traditional Austrian food.
Take the U4 metro from Schönbrunn to Karlsplatz, then a short walk to Naschmarkt; about 30 minutes.
EUR 8, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit St. Stephen's Cathedral

Marvel at the Gothic architecture and climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city.
Walk or take a tram from Naschmarkt; approximately 20 minutes.
EUR 5, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Plachutta

Feast on the Viennese specialty of Tafelspitz, a boiled beef dish served with all the traditional sides.
Take tram 1 to the restaurant; around 20 minutes.
EUR 20, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Bratislava Bound

Bratislava, Slovakia

8:00 AM

Depart for Bratislava

Catch an early train from Vienna to Bratislava, a quick ride offering scenic views of the countryside.
Take the train from Vienna Main Station to Bratislava; train ride about 1 hour.
EUR 15, 2 hours (arrival by 10:00 AM)

10:30 AM

Explore Bratislava Old Town

Stroll through cobblestone streets and admire medieval architecture, discovering the charm of Slovakia's capital.
Most sights are within walking distance.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Slovenska Reštaurácia

Relish traditional Slovak dishes, including bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese).
A short five-minute walk from the Old Town.
EUR 12, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Bratislava Castle

Enjoy captivating views of the city while exploring this historic castle, which dates back to the 9th century.
Walk up the hill from the Old Town, around 20 minutes.
EUR 5, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Hradná Hviezda

Dine in a picturesque restaurant located by the castle, offering traditional Slovak food with a view.
Short walk from Bratislava Castle.
EUR 18, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Journey to Ljubljana

Ljubljana, Slovenia

8:00 AM

Train to Ljubljana

Embark on a train to Ljubljana, experiencing the picturesque landscapes of Slovenia.
Board the train at Bratislava Main Station; journey takes about 1.5 hours.
EUR 12, 2 hours (arrival by 10:00 AM)

10:30 AM

Explore Dragon Bridge

Snap photos with the famous dragon statues and enjoy the beauty of this historic bridge.
Walk along the river from the station, approximately 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Špajza

Taste Slovenian cuisine at this cozy eatery known for its local dishes and friendly atmosphere.
Short walk from Dragon Bridge, about 10 minutes.
EUR 10, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Ljubljana Castle

Take a funicular up to this medieval castle to explore its rich history and breathtaking views.
The funicular is a minutes away from the restaurant.
EUR 10, 2.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Cathedral Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful evening meal with a view of Ljubljana Cathedral, featuring seasonal specialties.
5-minute walk back to Old Town.
EUR 15, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Lake Bled Day Trip

Lake Bled, Slovenia

8:00 AM

Bus to Lake Bled

Catch a local bus from Ljubljana to the iconic Lake Bled, renowned for its stunning scenery.
Board the bus at Ljubljana Central Station; about 1 hour.
EUR 6, 1.5 hours (arrival by 9:30 AM)

10:00 AM

Pletna Boat Ride

Take a traditional boat to Bled Island and explore its stunning Church of the Assumption.
Board the boat from the shore; ride takes about 20 minutes.
EUR 15, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Oštarija Pegaz

Enjoy local Bled specialties, including the famous Bled Cream Cake.
Situated near the lake, about a 10-minute walk from the pier.
EUR 12, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Hike around the Lake

Take a scenic walk around Lake Bled, soaking in breathtaking views and nature.
Starting from the restaurant, follow the pathway around the lake.
Free, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Return to Ljubljana

Head back to Ljubljana to rest and refresh before dinner.
Take the bus back to Ljubljana; approximately 1 hour.
EUR 6, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Gostilna As

Indulge in gourmet Slovenian dishes focused on fresh, local ingredients at one of the finest dining spots in town.
Short taxi ride or a 15-minute walk from your accommodation.
EUR 25, 2 hours
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Day 5: Graz Experience

Graz, Austria

8:00 AM

Train to Graz

Catch a morning train to Graz, known for its vibrant cultural scene and historic architecture.
Take the train from Ljubljana, journey about 2 hours.
EUR 15, 2.5 hours (arrival by 10:30 AM)

11:00 AM

Explore Graz Old Town

Wander the UNESCO-listed Old Town, characterized by its well-preserved medieval buildings.
Most sites are accessible on foot.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Glöckl Bräu

Delve into local dishes and locally brewed beer at this welcoming brewery-restaurant.
A short walk from the Old Town.
EUR 12, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Schlossberg

Climb the hill of Schlossberg for stunning views of Graz from its clock tower.
A quick escalator ride or a pleasant hike up.
EUR 8, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Restaurant Stainzerbauer

Enjoy delicious Styrian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for relaxation after an active day.
A short walk from Schlossberg.
EUR 18, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Salzburg's Charms

Salzburg, Austria

8:00 AM

Train to Salzburg

Travel to Salzburg, the home of Mozart and a city filled with baroque monuments.
Catch the train from Graz; journey takes about 2.5 hours.
EUR 15, 3 hours (arrival by 11:00 AM)

11:30 AM

Mozart's Birthplace

Visit the museum dedicated to the life and works of Mozart, located in the house where he was born.
A quick walk from the station to Getreidegasse.
EUR 12, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Café Tomaselli

Savor traditional Austrian pastries and coffee at the oldest café in Salzburg.
About a 10-minute walk from the museum.
EUR 10, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Hohensalzburg Fortress

Explore one of Europe's best-preserved medieval castles, offering exceptional views of the city below.
Take the funicular from the Old Town to the fortress.
EUR 12, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at St. Peter Stiftskeller

Dine in one of the oldest restaurants in Europe, famous for its traditional Austrian dishes.
A 15-minute walk back to the Old Town.
EUR 25, 2 hours
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Day 7: Hallstatt's Beauty

Hallstatt, Austria

8:00 AM

Bus to Hallstatt

Depart Salzburg for Hallstatt, a village famous for its stunning lakeside scenery and salt mines.
Take a bus from Salzburg to Hallstatt; journey takes about 2.5 hours.
EUR 15, 3 hours (arrival by 11:00 AM)

11:30 AM

Lake Hallstatt Walk

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque lake, admiring the views and postcard-perfect houses.
Follow signs from the bus station to the lakeside.
Free, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Gasthof Höllwirt

Taste local fish dishes and Tyrolean specialties at this charming lakeside inn.
Located just a short walk from the lake.
EUR 15, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit the Salt Mines

Explore the ancient salt mines, one of the world's oldest with fascinating underground tours.
Take a funicular up to the mines.
EUR 30, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Restaurant Am See

Feast on traditional Austrian fare while enjoying spectacular views of the Hallstatt lake.
A short walk back to the lakefront.
EUR 20, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Farewell to Austria

Vienna, Austria

8:00 AM

Travel back to Vienna

Catch the bus back to Salzburg, then a train to Vienna to wrap up your unforgettable journey.
Bus from Hallstatt to Salzburg, then train from Salzburg to Vienna; total journey takes about 4 hours.
EUR 25, 4.5 hours (arrival by 12:30 PM)

1:00 PM

Lunch at Figlmüller

Enjoy the famous Wiener Schnitzel at one of the best places in Vienna.
Short tram ride or a lovely walk to Figlmüller.
EUR 20, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Stroll through the Belvedere Gardens

Unwind in the beautiful gardens of the Belvedere Palace, taking in the art displayed in the palace itself.
Take tram 71 to the gardens; about 20 minutes.
EUR 10, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Last dinner in Vienna at Heuer

Relish contemporary takes on Austrian food before concluding your incredible journey.
A short taxi or tram ride from Belvedere Gardens.
EUR 25, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Evening departure

Prepare for your next adventure as you board your evening transport to your next destination.
Vienna is well connected with trains and flights to many European cities.
Varying, N/A
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