Prague, Vienna, & Budapest Trip Details

Introduction

Welcome to Central Europe! 

Visit three extraordinary countries in the heart of the European region! On this trip you will experience the best of what Central Europe has to offer. You’ll stroll through the romantic streets of Prague and find out why it is also known as the City of a Hundred Spires. In cosmopolitan Vienna, you will have the chance to immerse yourself in the stunning architecture of the past and present, while Budapest will reel you in with its relaxing atmosphere. There will be plenty of time to ponder the historic value of your journey over the local wines and beers the region is known for. 

Duration: 8 days & 7 nights

Start: Please be ready to begin your trip at Václav Havel Prague International Airport (PRG) -- Prague, Czech Republic at 3:00 p.m.

Finish: The trip ends in Budapest, Hungary. Plan to depart at any time. Hotel check out time is at 11:00 p.m. Travelers are responsible for their own transportation to the airport.

Airfare booking details will be sent after registration--please wait to book your flight until you receive further instructions.

What's Included

  • 8 days & 7 nights accommodation in boutique hotels
  • 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners
  • Beer Tasting Tour at microbrewery in Prague
  • Visit Prague Castle 
  • Visit Petrin Hill & Tower
  • Petrin Garden Walk 
  • Christmas Market Visit in Vienna (November & December only)
  • Naschmarkt Visit & Picnic in Vienna (January-October)
  • Gluhwein or snack in the market in Vienna
  • Guided walking tour in Vienna with a local Austrian Guide
  • Traditional schnitzel dinner in Vienna
  • Visit St. Stephen's Cathedral, Graben Street, Hofburg Palace, and State Opera House
  • Day-trip to Szentendre in Hungary’s countryside
  • Trip Leader led orientation walks in Prague, Vienna, & Budapest
  • Ground transportation (private vehicle, tram, taxi, train, metro) to included activities
  • Public Train from Prague to Vienna
  • Public train from Vienna to Budapest
  • Free time in each city to explore on your own
  • Group airport pick-up on arrival day
  • Under30Experiences Trip Leader
  • Personal recommendations for optional activities
  • The chance to meet kick-ass people
  • Access to the Under30Experiences Community  
  • Taxes always included, never hidden fees, & NO blackout dates

Travelers are responsible for international airfare to Prague and from Budapest.
Optional activities and their associated transportation are not included.

Highlights

  • Visit 3 countries in Central Europe 
  • Experience Prague, Vienna, & Budapest 
  • Drink beer from microbreweries in Prague
  • Visit museums and palaces in Vienna 
  • Taste the best Hungarian wines
  • Relax in thermal baths in Budapest 

Is this Trip for You?

If you’re interested in getting a taste of the local Central European life, then this trip is definitely for you! Your Trip Leader will show you local secrets and take you to places locals love to go.

You’ll get the best of both worlds–somebody to show you the ropes and the freedom and flexibility to enjoy each city the way you choose.

Another way we’ll aim to keep things local is by using public transportation–this shows you the reality of life in each city and reduces our carbon footprint.

Age requirement: 21+
-Group size: 10-16
-Physical rating: Light. There will be some long walking days while we explore multiple cities throughout the trip.

Travel Community

Travel connects us. Community keeps us connected.

Before your trip, you'll have the opportunity to join a custom WhatsApp group and connect with others members of your group. Many travelers meet at the airport or for pre-trip drinks if they are from the same city. Others coordinate plans to stay in a country after their trip.

During your adventure, our Trip Leaders do their best to foster an open, supportive environment where people feel safe to truly be themselves.

After your trip, you'll be an official U30X Alumni and part of our larger online Travel Community where you'll have access to our network of thousands of past travelers. We are constantly hosting meetups that range from simple happy hours, to hikes, to outdoor movie nights.

More than 70% of our travelers come solo, but they all leave with friends.

Itinerary Disclaimer

Travel can be unpredictable. Our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience.

While it is our intention to adhere to the itinerary, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into it, and on occasion, it may be necessary or desirable to make alterations.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and are subject to vary due to local circumstances.

Meals

Breakfasts will be served at your hotel. Dinners are enjoyed in local restaurants. 

Central European food is typically hearty and filling. Dine on roasted roasted pork in Prague. Sample Wiener schnitzel with a side of baked potatoes in Austria. Enjoy the famed goulash soup and chicken paprika in Hungary. Then wash it down with a glass of the local beer or wine. Do as the locals do and digest it all with a shot of palinka or schnapps.

Sample Breakfast Menu:

  • Small breakfast buffet, with warm and cold selection
  • Bread rolls, butter; coffee, muesli, boiled eggs. cold cuts--ham, sometimes smoked bacon called Speck or Schinkenspeck, cut sausages, boiled eggs

Sample Dinner Menu:

  • Wiener schnitzel with a side of baked potatoes, goulash soup, chicken paprika

We do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions. Some meals can be modified for special requests and food allergies.

Transportation

You will be traveling by private, locally-owned, ground transportation, and a public high-speed passenger train. There will be early departures on some days in order to optimize time.

  • Private ground transportation to and from the airport (Included)
  • Private ground transportation to and from your hotels around the countries (Included)
  • Public passenger train from Prague to Vienna (Included)
  • Private bus from Vienna to Budapest

Taxis and other public transportation are not included unless specified on the itinerary.

Accommodation

You will be staying in shared boutique hotel rooms for the duration of your trip. 

Please be aware that rooms in Europe can be smaller and don’t always provide a minibar, air conditioning, or a security safe.

Laundry is available at some hotels for an additional fee. Ask your Trip Leader for details.

Accommodations may vary but will be the same quality. 

Solo travelers are paired with someone of the same gender.

Private room options are available upon request, subject to hotel availability (for an extra charge).

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance with at least $200,000 USD in medical coverage is required to participate on our trips. This must include coverage for repatriation.

Please note that travel insurance covers trip-related issues such as trip interruption, lost luggage, theft, etc. Travel medical insurance covers things like repatriation, medicine, ambulance rides, and hospital visits/stays. 

We strongly suggest that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects. Please ensure that all of the activities you plan on participating in are covered by your travel insurance.

Here are a few options for travel insurance that meet our minimum medical coverage requirements: Wanderwell, SafetyWing, and World Nomads. Some plans do not cover certain “high-risk” activities. Please make sure to read your plan’s coverage and make a selection based on your planned trip.

Wanderwell donates at least one percent of your insurance purchase to Explore Austin, a sustainable youth outdoor education program, via 1% for the Planet, selected by Under30Experiences.

We receive a fee if you purchase products through links on this page at no extra cost to you.

We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using our affiliate links. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Cancellation Policy

Very-Flexible

Give us at least 30 days notice, and you can switch your trip for free, or we'll hold your Experience Credits for future use.

If you have an emergency cancellation that is less than 30 days before your trip, please refer to your travel insurance company, as they may cover you for some expenses.

We are not able to transfer trips or hold experience credits within 30 days of the trip because we have already secured reservations on your behalf.

Trip Leader Expectations

All Under30Experiences trips are accompanied by experienced Trip Leaders.

The goal of the Trip Leader is to facilitate an awesome experience and help our travelers have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to our local friends.

You can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects.

Packing List

Please be eco-friendly!

Bring a reusable water bottle to refill from the tap.

Use as little plastic as possible by declining straws and plastic bags at restaurants and when shopping.

Please avoid aerosol bug sprays as they negatively affect the environment.

We recommend using a travel backpack for your convenience or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.

Do not forget: Bring a two-prong power adaptor to charge your electronics. Be sure to bring a converter if devices can’t handle 220V. 

Below includes our staff picks of the best items on the market that we travel with!  All products selected are 3 ounces or less to comply with TSA carry-on size and are organically inspired when possible.

Some links on this page are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, Under30Experiences will earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Passport & Visas

Guidelines for U.S. Passport Holders:

Make sure you have an updated passport with you. Your passport must be valid for 60 days after your trip. Under30Experiences recommends that your passport be valid for at least six months after your trip.  Please consult the U.S. Department of State with any more questions.

Make sure there is no damage to your passport. Conditions that may constitute damage requiring you to replace your passport include water damage, a significant tear, unofficial markings on the data page, missing or torn-out visa pages, a hole punch, or other injuries.

Health & Insurance

The tap water in the Czech Republic, Austria, and Hungary is safe to drink. Please bring a reusable water bottle and join us in our efforts to be environmentally friendly and keep Europe beautiful. 

When selecting a travel insurance policy, please bear in mind that all travelers must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of $200,000 USD for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects. Please ensure that all the activities you plan on participating in are covered by your travel insurance.

Please consult with your doctor before traveling regarding physical activity and vaccinations.

No inoculations are required to enter the Czech Republic, Austria, and Hungary from the United States but the Center for Disease Control suggests routine vaccines for all travelers. 

More specific health information for travelers to the Czech Republic, Austria, and Hungary can be found at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website.

Money & Currency

The official currency in the Czech Republic is the Koruna (CZK).

The official currency in Austria is the Euro (EUR).

The official currency in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). 

We suggest bringing $300 USD in cash in the local currencies to be used at establishments that do not accept credit cards.

This is not the total cash amount that you should expect to spend on your trip. Please consider your own spending habits for additional expenses such as snacks, souvenirs, and optional activities.

ATMs are available in the cities and towns we visit. Although you can withdraw cash from any ATM, it's a good idea to come with some local currency just in case.

Remember to call your bank and credit card company and let them know you'll be traveling overseas.

For an up-to-date exchange rate, download the XE Currency Exchange App.

Please be advised that US Dollar notes that are slightly torn, heavily marked, or faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than $100.

Safety & Security

Always carry a copy of your travel insurance, health insurance, and passport with you. A photo of these items on your phone is also a good backup.

Keep your passport and any valuables locked in the safe at the hotel. 

Don’t leave valuables unattended.

Leave flashy jewelry at home. Please try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables.

It’s also a good idea to purchase a money belt or pouch that is easily hidden.

US Citizens, please consider registering with the US State Department's “SMART Traveler Program” which can contact your family in case of emergency.

Although most parts of Europe are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering around any town at night, especially alone. We recommend staying in small groups when traveling at night.

Make sure you have the address of your hotel in the event that you're separated from your Trip Leader.

Weather

Summers in Central Europe are from June to August and are usually warm with temperatures in the upper 80’s Fahrenheit. Please bring sun protection and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Summer in this region is also the busiest time of the year. 

Winters are from December to February and are cold, dry, and snowy. Temperatures are often below 32°F. Please pack accordingly! 

cultural information

Czech Republic:

History is always apparent in the Czech Republic, where castles such as Prazski Hrad and manor houses dot the landscape and medieval town centers abound. During the communist era, Atheism was the official religion in the country. Even though religious freedom was restored back in 1989, today, 90% of Czechs still remain atheists.

Austria

Austria’s prominence over the centuries can be attributed to its geographic location. It has always been situated at the center of European commerce, along the great Danubian trade route and the trade routes leading through the Alpine passes. This helped implant the country in various political and economic systems. Classical music concerts are typical in churches and a true delight when the weather is nice.  

Hungary

Hungarians, who call their country Magyarország, meaning “Land of Magyars,” are unique among the citizens of Europe. They speak a language that does not have any Latin, Slavic, or Germanic roots while being distantly related to Finnish and Estonian. It’s impossible to think of Budapest without its ruin bars, despite the fact that the bars have only been around for 15 years. Over the years, they have become an attraction equally as popular as Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament Building!

Tipping

Gratuities aren’t compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you are happy with the services provided, a tip is an appropriate way to thank them. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations.

  • Local guides: Throughout your trip, you may, at times, have a local guide in addition to your Trip Leader. We suggest around $3-5 USD per person per day for local guides.
  • Basic restaurants: When checking the bill, if there’s an addition of 10% to 15% service charge, there’s no requirement for tipping. Otherwise, 10% of the total bill amount is appropriate.

Tipping Kitty

Over the years, we have found that many of our travelers find the need for tipping local guides and operators to be both tiresome and embarrassing, especially if they don't have the correct small change. To overcome this, your Trip Leader might raise the idea of a group tipping kitty. At your group meeting, your Trip Leader may discuss the idea of running this kitty, whereby everybody contributes an equal amount, and someone pays the tips as you go. 

Trip Leaders

Gratuities for Trip Leaders aren’t required on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you are happy with the services provided, a tip is an appropriate way to thank them. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations. We suggest around $3-5 USD per person per day for Trip Leaders.

Key Phrases in Czech, Austrian, and Hungarian:

Hello

  • Czech: Dobry Den
  • Austrian/German: Ahoj Hallo / Guten Tag 
  • Hungarian: Jó Reggelt / Szia

Good evening 

  • Czech: Dobry Veĉer 
  • Austrian/German: Guten Abend 
  • Hungary: Jó Napot

Good night

  • Czech: Dobrou Noc 
  • Austrian/German: Gute Nacht 
  • Hungarian: Jó éjszakát

Goodbye 

  • Czech: Na Shledanou / Ciao
  • Austrian/German: Auf Wiedersehen
  • Hungarian: Viszontlátásra

Please 

  • Czech: Prosím 
  • Austrian/German: Bitte
  • Hungarian: Kérem

Thank you

  • Czech: Dêkuji 
  • Austrian/German: Danke 
  • Hungarian: Köszönöm

You’re welcome

  • Czech: Neni Zac
  • Austrian/German:  Gern Geschehen
  • Hungarian: Szívesen

Yes 

  • Czech: Ano / Jo
  • Austrian/German: Ja 
  • Hungarian: Igen

No

  • Czech: Ne
  • Austrian/German:  Nein 
  • Hungarian: Nem

Cheers!

  • Czech: Na Zdravi!
  • Austrian/German: Prost!
  • Hungarian: Egészségedre

Optional Activities

Optional Activities in Prague

Optional Activities in Vienna

Optional Activities in Budapest

While your Trip Leader will assist you with optional activities available, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of the Under30Experiences itinerary. We offer no guarantees on the safety or standard of the activity.

General Rules

Respect the people around you and the environment in which you’re traveling. This includes but is not limited to, fellow travelers, Trip Leaders, the local community, nature, wildlife, and yourself.

Do your best to keep yourself and fellow travelers out of harm’s way.

It’s important to obey local laws and customs while on our trips. This includes but is not limited to, wearing appropriate clothing while visiting certain communities, refraining from taking photos of people without asking, avoiding the use of illegal drugs, having weapons, and soliciting prostitution. If you’re not sure about something, take time to educate yourself or ask.

Travel involves contact with new cultures. When confronted with a different way of living than you’re used to, do your best to understand that neither way is better nor worse. They’re simply different ways of life.

Know your limits! This applies to physical ability, emotional space, social situations, and alcohol consumption. If you can’t participate in something, be upfront about it. If you need a break from people, take it. Stop drinking before you get too drunk.

Trip leaders are working in the travelers’ best interest. If they say something or ask you not to do something, it’s not because they’re tyrants, but because they want you to have a good time!

Lying or withholding information about any physical or mental condition that might affect your ability to participate in any of the activities may be grounds for removal from your trip with no refund.

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