Overview
There’s something timeless about train travel—the gentle rhythm of the rails and the ease of arriving refreshed in the heart of each city. As we glide through Central Europe, we’ll explore the imperial elegance of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, where the legacy of the Austro-Hungarian Empire still lingers in grand architecture, art, and music. Prague feels like stepping into a fairytale with its Gothic spires, medieval cobblestone streets, and the stunning Charles Bridge lined with baroque statues. The city has an enchanting quality where every corner reveals another architectural masterpiece - from the Astronomical Clock to Prague Castle looming over the red-roofed Old Town. Vienna is pure elegance - a city of grand imperial palaces, world-class opera houses, and charming coffeehouse culture where you can linger over sachertorte and feel like royalty. It has the perfect balance of artistic brilliance (Mozart, Klimt, the Spanish Riding School) and refined everyday pleasures, all wrapped up in stunning Habsburg-era architecture. Budapest is one of Europe’s most captivating cities - a perfect blend of old-world elegance and youthful energy. The city’s dual personality, split by the Danube into hilly Buda and lively Pest, gives it endless contrast and charm. This three-country escapade promises an unforgettable journey through Europe's cultural gems, where every step reveals a new layer of history and beauty.
Highlights
Watch the famous clock in Prague's Old Town strike noon
Take an authentic Hungarian cooking class
Cruise down the Danube River while the sun sets
Visit Prague Castle
Relish the sounds of the opera in Vienna
Enjoy a cold beer at a 500 year old pub in Prague
Itinerary
Here's a day-by-day itinerary of the trip. Press the "<" and ">" buttons below to scroll through each day.
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You'll Be Staying Here
Maximilian Boutique Hotel
Maximilian Boutique Hotel is a cozy gem tucked in the heart of Prague, just steps from the Old Town’s magic. It blends modern comfort with thoughtful charm—warm, stylish rooms, a peaceful library lounge, and a courtyard that feels like our own little retreat from the city’s bustle. With personalized touches and an inviting atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where we can unwind after a day of exploring and feel completely at home in one of Europe’s most enchanting cities.
Die Josefine Hotel
Die Josefine Hotel in Vienna wraps us in vintage elegance with a playful, artistic twist. Tucked near the city’s vibrant museums and grand boulevards, it feels like stepping into a glamorous past—velvet furnishings, golden accents, and a timeless atmosphere that invites us to slow down and soak it all in. It's the perfect hideaway in the heart of Vienna.
Hotel Clark
Hotel Clark in Budapest offers stunning views and a sleek, modern style, situated right at the foot of the iconic Chain Bridge. With the Danube flowing below and Buda Castle rising just across the river, it’s the perfect spot. The design is chic and contemporary, yet warm, with rooftop cocktails and cozy corners that make us feel both energized and at ease. It’s our ideal base for exploring the city’s rich history and vibrant nightlife, all just steps from the front door.
Hosts
Katrin Hodapp
A 25-year resident in her adopted Paris. Katrin has turned from a career as an international literary agent to sharing her passion for travel and art. She speaks 5 languages fluently and when not guiding visitors in France, Holland, and Morocco, is an active translator in the film industry. She's always keen to find the perfect view, the ideal bistro, and the hidden gem to make the trips she leads seamless and memorable.
Price
Reserve your spot!
We're not quite ready to publish this trip, but you can reserve your spot with a FULLY REFUNDABLE deposit of $250.
$250
If you haven't been...do yourself a favor and discover these 3 European jewels.
Prague, Vienna and Budapest
Prague welcomes us with its fairytale charm, from cobblestone streets and Gothic spires to the timeless beauty of the Charles Bridge. The whole city feels like it was built for slow strolls and quiet awe.
In Vienna, we step into elegance—grand palaces, classical music echoing through historic halls, and cafés that invite us to linger. We can wander through Old Town or admire the intricate beauty of St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Finally, in Budapest, we’re swept up in contrasts: the hills of Buda and the vibrant energy of Pest. Warm thermal baths, riverside walks, and the glowing Parliament at night make it a city that feels both regal and alive.
What's Included
What's Included
All meals (except where indicated), including beer, wine, or cocktails with dinner
All in-country transport including airport transfers
Accommodation at unique, 4-star or better hotels
Guided tour of Mucha Museum
Expert guides and trip leaders
Old town Prague walking tour
Sunset cruise on the Danube
Guided tour of Prague Castle
Visit to St. Stephen's Basilica
Visit to the Great Synagogue
Evening at the Vienna Opera
Visit to the Klimt Exhibition
Tour of Hungarian Parliament
Art Nouveau Walking Tour
Hungarian cooking class
Private airport transfers
All activity entry fees
Visit to Sissi Museum
What's Not Included
Additional wine, beer or spirits beyond what is offered at meals.
Travel and Medical Insurance (required)
Additional spa treatments (if desired)
Any personal souvenirs or purchases
Roundtrip international airfare
FAQs
What airport should I fly into/out of?
You should fly into the Václav Havel Airport in Prague (PRG). Be aware that most flights from North America land in the morning.
At the end of the trip, you'll depart from Budapest Ferenc Liszt Airport (BUD).
When should I arrive?
The trip officially starts midday on September 30. If you are traveling across an ocean to reach Prague, consider arriving a day early to allow time to relax and adjust to the local time zone.
If you decide to arrive early, please book a pre-arrival night in the Add-on section. We will then secure your room and ensure that you stay in the same room as you will have when the trip starts.
Are the train tickets included?
All First Class Train Tickets are included for travel between countries.
What should I pack?
We will have a Zoom call about 6 weeks before the trip starts to discuss all that information and give you a packing list. Here is a great website that we love that will help you with packing and travel trips.
What is the weather like in October?
Traveling through Austria, the Czech Republic, and Hungary in October means enjoying the pleasant autumn weather with mild days and cooler nights. The temperature range is from 6°C to 11°C (43°F to 52°F). Be prepared for occasional rain showers and pack for a fantastic fall trip through Central Europe.
What are the new visa requirements for entering Europe?
Starting in late 2026, Europe will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), valid for 2 years. If you get a new passport, you will need to get a new ETA. The process is quick and involves a small fee. Girls’ Guide to the World offers concierge assistance to help with these processes for all our trips if needed.
What's the activity level of this trip?
We require that everyone traveling with Girls' Guide be able to comfortably walk 3–5 miles per day unassisted, and without difficulty, can navigate stairs, uneven streets or paths, and occasional steep terrain. Most of our trips require this level of physical mobility and fitness, especially when visiting historic towns and landmarks where vehicle access is limited and walking often offers the best experience.
Additionally, some of the 4 and 5-star boutique or historic hotels we stay in do not have elevators and may require climbing stairs to get to your room or access other facilities in the hotel.
Is there anything else I need to know?
Visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page to see answers to most other questions about traveling with Girls' Guide to the World.







