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Connecting Prague, Vienna, and Budapest is a classic European route for a good reason. Each city offers a completely distinct history, atmosphere, and culture.
My first vienna budapest prague trip taught me that with a bit of smart planning, you can move between these three capitals smoothly, even during the busy holiday season. This guide provides a clear framework based on my experiences.
We will cover the ideal trip length, the best ways to travel between cities, what to pack for the cold, and how to manage the Christmas and New Year period.
Planning Your Vienna Budapest Prague Trip
The first question most people ask is about timing. It is a critical piece of the puzzle for a successful trip.
Is 2 weeks enough for Prague Vienna Budapest?
Yes, two weeks is a good length of time for a vienna budapest prague trip. This duration allows you to spend approximately four full days in each city, with the remaining two days allocated for travel between them.
This pacing prevents you from feeling rushed. You have enough time to see the main sights, find some local spots, and absorb each city’s unique character without constant transit fatigue. I’ve found that trying to fit all three into 10 days or less becomes more of a checklist than an actual experience.
💡Musa’s Pacing Tip
If your schedule allows, extending your trip to 15 or 16 days is even better. An extra day in each city gives you breathing room for a spontaneous day trip—like to Kutná Hora from Prague—or simply a slower-paced day to relax at a coffee house.
How to Travel Between Prague Vienna and Budapest
Your transport choices will define the flow of your trip. Fortunately, Central Europe is incredibly well-connected, making this part of the planning straightforward. From my own travels, trains are the clear winner for comfort and scenery.
Here is a breakdown of the most practical options.
This is the classic, comfortable way to go.
Scenery is nice and stations are right in the city center.
Book ahead on RegioJet or ÖBB for the best prices, around €15-€40.
The ride is about 4 hours between each city, very manageable.
Honestly, don’t bother with flights for this route.
By the time you get to the airport, check in, and fly, it takes longer.
It’s more expensive and far less convenient than the train.
Stick to the ground, it’s just plain better here.
What to Pack for Central Europe Winter
Packing correctly is the key to enjoying a winter trip. I learned the hard way on a chilly December evening in Prague that the wrong shoes can ruin your day. The cold in this region is damp and gets into your bones if you aren’t prepared.
The strategy is simple: layers are your best friend.
Start with thermal underwear, it’s a must for long days outside.
Add a mid-layer like a fleece or wool sweater for insulation.
Your outer layer must be a waterproof and windproof jacket.
Pack warm wool socks, more pairs than you think you need!
Waterproof boots with good grip are non-negotiable.
Cobblestones get slick with ice or snow.
A warm hat, a scarf, and gloves are absolutely essential items.
Don’t forget them, you will regret it.
Experiencing Central Europe Over Christmas New Years
Traveling to central europe over christmas new years is a special experience, but it requires some specific planning. The cities are beautifully decorated, and the Christmas markets are a main attraction.
The markets in Prague, Vienna, and Budapest are fantastic, each with a local flavor. They typically run from late November until just after Christmas, though some stay open until early January.
⚠️Holiday Season Advisory
Book everything—flights, trains, and especially accommodation—months in advance for this period. Prices increase sharply, and the best places sell out quickly. Also, be aware that many shops and some attractions will have limited hours or be closed on December 24, 25, 26, and January 1.
Here are some of the standout markets I’ve personally visited.
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Old Town Square Market, Prague
The most famous one in Prague. Try the Trdelník (chimney cake) and Svařák (mulled wine).
Gets very crowded in the evenings.
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Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, Vienna
Huge and impressive, with an ice rink. Vienna’s markets feel very traditional and elegant.
The mugs are collectible!
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Vörösmarty Square Market, Budapest
Known for great food stalls. I loved the Lángos (fried dough with toppings) here.
A fantastic place to eat your way through Hungarian classics.
A Sample 2-Week Itinerary Outline
To give you a practical starting point, here is a logical flow for your trip. Starting in Prague and ending in Budapest (or the reverse) works well geographically.
This structure provides a good mix of sightseeing and free time.
Arrive, check in, and take a walk across the Charles Bridge at sunset.
Devote a full morning to the Prague Castle complex, it’s huge!
Explore the Old Town Square, see the Astronomical Clock show.
Spend an afternoon in the historical Jewish Quarter.
Take a morning train to Vienna on Day 5.
Visit Schönbrunn Palace, the former imperial summer residence.
See the Hofburg Palace and walk through the city’s grand center.
Don’t skip the Vienna State Opera, even just to see the building.
Travel to Budapest on Day 9.
Explore the Buda side with Castle Hill, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Matthias Church.
Walk over the Chain Bridge to the Pest side to see the Parliament Building.
Relax at one of the famous thermal baths, like Szechenyi or Gellért.
Enjoy one last Hungarian pastry.
Head to the airport for your flight home.
This schedule is full but doesn’t feel frantic.
It’s a solid plan for first-time visitors.
FAQs
Which city is the cheapest?
Generally, Budapest is the most affordable, followed by Prague. Vienna, which uses the Euro and is an Austrian hub, is noticeably more expensive for food, accommodation, and activities.
Do they speak English in Prague, Vienna, and Budapest?
Yes, in all three cities, you will find English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and shops within the main tourist areas. However, learning a few basic phrases like “Hello” and “Thank you” in Czech, German, and Hungarian is always appreciated by locals.
What currency should I use in each city?
This is important. They are all different (except for Austria). Prague, Czech Republic: Czech Koruna (CZK) Vienna, Austria: Euro (€) Budapest, Hungary: Hungarian Forint (HUF) Avoid exchanging money at airport kiosks. Use an ATM from a reputable bank upon arrival for the best rates.
What is the best order to visit Prague, Vienna, and Budapest?
The most geographically logical routes are either Prague -> Vienna -> Budapest or the reverse, Budapest -> Vienna -> Prague. Vienna sits between the other two, so placing it in the middle minimizes travel time and prevents backtracking.
Is winter the best time for a Vienna Budapest Prague trip?
Winter is magical because of the Christmas markets, but it is also very cold. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are also excellent times to visit, offering pleasant weather for walking and fewer crowds than the peak summer months.
Do I need to book train tickets in advance?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Booking your train tickets a few weeks or even a month ahead with carriers like RegioJet or ÖBB will get you much lower prices than buying them on the day of travel, especially during peak seasons like winter holidays.
Are these cities walkable?
The historic centers of all three cities are very walkable. You can explore most of the main attractions on foot. For sights further out, like Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, all three have excellent, easy-to-use public transportation systems (trams, metros, and buses).
What are some must-try foods besides Christmas market snacks?
In Prague, try Goulash (Gulaš) or a Svíčková. In Vienna, you must have a Wiener Schnitzel and a slice of Sachertorte. In Budapest, don’t leave without trying Chicken Paprikash (Csirkepaprikás) and visiting a ruin bar for a drink.