Germany, Austria, Switzerland & Prague Itinerary: A Central European Rail Adventure
Embark on a 7-day rail journey through the heart of Central Europe, exploring the historic capitals of Prague and Munich, enjoying a day trip to Salzburg, and concluding in the scenic Swiss city of Lucerne.
- 1Prague
- 2Munich
- 3Lucerne
Day 1: Arrive Prague
Arrive in the enchanting city of Prague, settle in, and begin your exploration with its iconic historical landmarks.
Highlights
- Upon arrival at Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG), take public transport or an Airport Express bus to Prague Main Station, located centrally.
- Wander through the historic Old Town Square, admiring its Gothic and Baroque architecture.
- Stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge, enjoying views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle.
Day 2: Explore Prague
Uncover Prague's imperial past and picturesque neighborhoods, focusing on the vast castle complex and the charming Lesser Town.
Highlights
- Explore the vast Prague Castle complex, a defining symbol of Czech statehood.
- Visit the magnificent St. Vitus Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture within the castle grounds.
- Wander through Malá Strana (Lesser Town), a romantic quarter of palaces, lanes, and church domes beneath Prague Castle.
Day 3: Prague -> Munich
Travel by train from Prague to Munich, then delve into the Bavarian capital's historic core and royal heritage.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Prague Main Station to Munich Hbf, a journey averaging 4h 48m with tickets from €21.
- Discover Marienplatz, Munich's central square, home to the Neo-Gothic New Town Hall and famous Glockenspiel.
- Explore the opulent Munich Residenz, a grand city palace showcasing centuries of Bavarian royal history.
Day 4: Explore Munich
Delve into Munich's scientific wonders and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in its expansive urban park.
Highlights
- Spend your morning at the Deutsches Museum, one of the world's largest science and technology museums.
- Relax and stroll through the vast English Garden, enjoying its meadows, river scenes, and beer-garden areas.
- Consider visiting the lively Viktualienmarkt, a historic market offering local character and browsing.
Day 5: Bookable day trip from Munich to Salzburg
Take a scenic train day trip to Salzburg, exploring its rich musical heritage and stunning fortress.
Highlights
- Depart Munich Hbf for Salzburg Hbf by train, with services running from 00:02 and returning until 23:58, with tickets from €18.
- Ascend to the majestic Hohensalzburg Fortress for panoramic city views and a glimpse into its long history.
- Visit Mozart's Birthplace, delving into the early life of the legendary composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
Day 6: Munich -> Lucerne
Travel by train from Munich to the picturesque Swiss city of Lucerne, and begin exploring its iconic waterfront.
Highlights
- Journey by train from Munich Hbf to Luzern Bhf, a trip averaging 5h 11m with tickets from €32.
- Walk across the iconic Chapel Bridge, a 14th-century covered wooden bridge adorned with interior paintings.
- Admire the historic Water Tower, an octagonal landmark beside the Chapel Bridge that defines Lucerne's skyline.
Day 7: Depart Lucerne
Enjoy a final morning in Lucerne before departing from Switzerland.
Highlights
- Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport, a family-friendly museum with diverse exhibits on trains, planes, and cars.
- See the poignant Lion Monument, a rock-cut sculpture commemorating Swiss Guards.
- Depart from Lucerne railway station, with direct train connections to Zurich Airport (ZRH) taking about an hour. EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL), Bern Airport (BRN), and Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) are alterna
