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While I’ve visited several countries in Western Europe (and even lived in France and Scotland), Central Europe has remained a bucket list destination for me. With airfares so low, September 2021 was the perfect time for a two-week trip through Central Europe. Here is an easy two-week Central Europe itinerary that I used. And you don’t even need a car!
A Complete Central Europe Itinerary
The trip started as one of my crazy itineraries – featuring five countries in a whirlwind trip. As mentioned in my travel during the pandemic post, the original plan went through multiple changes. Originally, the plan was to start in Budapest, moving to Bratislava, then Vienna and Prague, before ending in Krakow.
But the airline company I was scheduled to fly home on canceled flights out of Krakow – Poland dropped off. As the date got closer, Budapest would not remove its prohibition on American tourists arriving by air. I was afraid that I would be turned away at the border if I took a train. I later learned that I would have been fine arriving by train. So, Budapest, I’m coming back for you!
So what did the two-week Central Europe itinerary look like? The itinerary includes Graz, Bratislava, Vienna, and Prague. For those that prefer to see Budapest, the itinerary can easily be modified to include Budapest instead, though perhaps adding a few days to your trip would be better. In addition, this itinerary does not require renting a car (an unnecessary additional expense, in my opinion).
To maximize your sightseeing, I recommend booking your lodging close to the historic town centers of each city. While it may be slightly more expensive, affordable options allow you to easily walk to most of the points of interest. In addition, you’ll get the most bang for your buck by staying within walking distance of the sights.
Day 1: Home to Graz, Austria
Technically, you may be leaving home the evening before and taking an overnight flight. I’m starting Day 1 with arrival in Central Europe. Fly into Vienna, Austria, and take the train to Graz, in southern Austria. Access to the train station can be found to the right of the airport terminal once you’ve collected your luggage.
If you’re not comfortable using the ticket booths to purchase your ticket, buy your ticket at the manned counter. The booths have an English option to make it easier. The platform is directly below the terminal. Proceed to the right platform and board your train. Sit back and enjoy the ride. If you’d like something to eat, you can either go to the dining car or wait for the person with the snack trolley to come to your car.
Check into your hotel in Graz and take a nap if you need it. Then go explore the town!
Day 2: Graz, Austria
This is your day to explore Graz! The capital of the Styrian region of Austria, Graz is a blend of historic buildings mixed with modern architecture. This laid-back artists’ scene is a perfect start to your Central Europe exploration. Most of the city’s highlights are easily walkable and you can explore at your leisure. A more detailed Graz itinerary will be posted soon.
Day 3: Graz, Austria to Bratislava, Slovakia
There are multiple options to travel between the two cities. I opted for the train again. You will need to change trains in Vienna, but it is pretty easy to do. When you arrive in Bratislava, do not pay for a taxi to take you to your hotel/accommodation – you’ll be charged 20 Euros for a short trip as vehicles are not permitted in the Old City.
Check into your Bratislava lodging and go exploring. If you arrive in time, I highly recommend the Free Walking Tour that starts at 3:30 pm and lasts about two hours.
Day 4: Bratislava, Slovakia
Take another walking tour and explore some of the area’s history. Then, take a night-time Spooky Tour. Check out the best things to see and do in Bratislava.
Day 5: Bratislava, Slovakia to Vienna, Austria
Travel back to Vienna today. If you’re on a tight budget, consider taking the bus. If your budget has some wiggle room, a train is a great option. If you want a special treat, take the ferry between Bratislava and Vienna.
Days 6 to 8: Vienna, Austria
You could easily spend a month in Vienna and still not see it all! Prioritize your interests and what you want to see while in town. People watching and admiring the buildings are some of the best activities. Take a walking tour to get a lay of the land.
Don’t forget to visit interesting spots, such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel. Vienna’s gastronomic scene is one of the best in Europe, so don’t miss visiting some iconic restaurants. A detailed post on what to do in Vienna if you’re not a museum-goer is coming soon.
Day 9: Vienna, Austria to Prague, Czech Republic
Time for another train ride! There are several options, but generally, you won’t need to change trains.
Days 10 to 13: Prague, Czech Republic
Due to Prague’s location, multiple day-trip options exist. As a lover of UNESCO World Heritage sites, I opted for a day trip to Český Krumlov. I recommend the Gray Line Tour with Viktor, which also includes a stop in Ceske Budejovice. Ceske Budejovice is the capital of Southern Bohemia and the home to the original Budweiser beer. There are many other worthy day trips, including a tour of Kutna Hora with its strange ossuary, trips into Switzerland, and a few nearby concentration camps.
Prague is a beautiful city with plenty of culture. You’ll walk a lot, so bring comfy shoes! Don’t miss the Old Town Square, the Astronomical Clock, or even a visit to a market that has been around for hundreds of years.
Day 14: Prague, Czech Republic to home!
This is the saddest day of the trip – you’re going home! Boarding for flights at the Prague airport is a little different than others. All the check-in kiosks are unassigned. Two hours before your flight time, a board announces which booth will handle your flight. It becomes a mad dash to the right counter. Ensure you have all your paperwork ready and use VeriFly if you’re traveling back to the US.
Have you visited Central Europe? What destinations should we explore next?
The following posts provide more detailed information:
Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
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Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.