Croatia Austria Hungary Itinerary: An Imperial and Danube River Journey
This 7-day itinerary takes you through the imperial cities of Vienna and Budapest, with a day trip to Bratislava, before concluding in Croatia's vibrant capital, Zagreb. Travel between cities is primarily by train, offering scenic views and comfortable journeys.
- 1Vienna
- 2Budapest
- 3Zagreb
Day 1: Arrive in Vienna
Begin your adventure in Vienna, arriving at Wien Hauptbahnhof, the city's main railway station. Spend the afternoon immersing yourself in the grandeur of Imperial Vienna.
Highlights
- Arrive at Wien Hauptbahnhof, well-connected to Vienna International Airport (VIE) via U-Bahn U1.
- Explore the historic Hofburg Palace, a former Habsburg winter residence.
- Visit St. Stephen's Cathedral, Vienna's iconic Gothic landmark with its distinctive patterned roof.
Day 2: Vienna's Palaces and Art
Dedicate a full day to Vienna's rich cultural heritage, discovering magnificent palaces and world-class art collections.
Highlights
- Wander through the opulent Schönbrunn Palace, the imperial summer residence, and its extensive gardens.
- Admire Gustav Klimt's 'The Kiss' and other Austrian art at the Belvedere Museum.
- Stroll along the Ringstrasse, a grand boulevard showcasing Vienna's 19th-century architecture and museums.
Day 3: Day Trip to Bratislava
Embark on a convenient train journey to Bratislava, Slovakia's charming capital, for a day of historical exploration.
Highlights
- Take a train from Wien Hauptbahnhof to Bratislava-Petržalka, with services starting as early as 00:02.
- Discover Bratislava Castle, offering panoramic views over the Danube and the city.
- Explore Bratislava's compact Old Town, filled with medieval lanes and historic landmarks. Return trains run until 23:56.
Day 4: Travel to Budapest and Danube Delights
Journey by train from Vienna to Budapest, then spend your afternoon exploring the iconic Danube Riverfront and Hungary's impressive Parliament Building.
Highlights
- Board a train from Wien Hauptbahnhof to Budapest Keleti, with tickets available from €9.
- Walk along the Danube Riverfront, enjoying views of the city's bridges and architecture.
- Marvel at the Neo-Gothic Hungarian Parliament Building, a defining symbol of Budapest.
Day 5: Budapest's Castle District and Thermal Relaxation
Immerse yourself in Budapest's historic Buda Castle District and unwind with a quintessential thermal bath experience.
Highlights
- Explore the UNESCO-listed Buda Castle, a hilltop complex with museums and courtyards.
- Visit Fisherman's Bastion for breathtaking panoramic views over Pest and the Parliament.
- Experience Budapest's famous thermal baths, a perfect way to relax after sightseeing.
Day 6: Journey to Zagreb and Upper Town Charm
Travel by train from Budapest to Zagreb, then dedicate your afternoon to discovering Zagreb's historic Upper Town and its unique landmarks.
Highlights
- Take a train from Budapest Keleti to Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor, with tickets from €137.
- Wander through Gornji Grad, Zagreb's historic Upper Town, characterized by cobbled streets and churches.
- Admire the distinctive tiled roof of St. Mark's Church, a highlight of the Upper Town.
Day 7: Depart from Zagreb
Enjoy a final morning in Zagreb, visiting a unique museum and the city's main square before your onward departure.
Highlights
- Visit the globally renowned Museum of Broken Relationships for a moving and memorable experience.
- Explore Ban Josip Jelačić Square, Zagreb's lively central meeting point.
- Depart from Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor or Zagreb Franjo Tuđman Airport (ZAG). Alternative airports include Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU) or Graz Airport (GRZ).
