Imperial Cities of Central Europe
Overview
Step into the heart of Europe and explore the grandeur of its former imperial capitals. This classic itinerary takes you on a journey through some of the continent’s most enchanting cities —Vienna, Budapest and Prague— each steeped in history, crowned with architectural splendour and brimming with old-world charm. From the refined palaces of the Habsburgs in Vienna to the thermal baths of Budapest and the fairy-tale skyline of Prague, this tour weaves together the cultural threads of Central Europe’s golden age.
The train tickets and hotel stays are included in the package, along with some meals and many other travel essentials that will help make this trip easy and unforgettable.
This itinerary features More Moments activities included with your package.
Format
Locations
- Vienna
- Budapest
- Prague
Inclusions
- Round-trip flights to Vienna and return from Prague (if Flight & Hotel package option is chosen)
- 9 nights of accommodation in selected category, with breakfast included
- Private round-trip airport transfers arrival in Vienna and departure in Prague
- Train Tickets 2nd class, Vienna, Budapest, Prague
More Moments activities included:
- Vienna City Cruise (shared tour, approximately 1.15 hours)
- Vienna Historical City Tour with Schönnbrunn Palace exterior and State Rooms (shared tour, approximately 3.5 hours)
- Budapest Grand City Tour with Parliament (shared tour, approximately 4.5 hours)
- Budapest Evening Candlelight Cruise with Dinner (shared tour, approximately 2.5 hours)
- Prague Grand City Tour (shared tour, approximately 2.5 hours)
- Prague Cruise on the Vltava River with Lunch (shared tour, approximately 2 hours)
- Earn extra Aeroplan® points per member on this tour
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Canada
Fly to Vienna.
Day 2-4
Welcome to Vienna
Upon arrival in Vienna, take a private transfer to your hotel for check-in for the next 3 nights. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure.
Vienna: Imperial Elegance Meets Cultural Sophistication
Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city where imperial grandeur and artistic brilliance come together in perfect harmony. Once the heart of the powerful Habsburg Empire, Vienna remains a symbol of European refinement—a place where Baroque palaces, grand boulevards and world-class museums coexist with cozy coffeehouses and vibrant street life.
Home to legendary composers like Mozart, Beethoven and Strauss, Vienna is a city that lives and breathes music. From the opulent halls of the Vienna State Opera to the lively rhythms of the Naschmarkt, the city offers a cultural experience like no other. Visitors can explore the majestic Schönbrunn and Hofburg Palaces, stroll through the historic Ringstrasse and savour rich slices of chocolate-covered Sachertorte in the cafés that inspired generations of artists and intellectuals.
More Moments Activities Included
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Vienna City Cruise
Experience Vienna from a unique perspective aboard the MS Blue Danube. Enjoy a relaxing cruise as our experienced captains ensure your safety and comfort. Indulge your senses in our Viennese onboard restaurant, expertly managed by Roman Loos. We offer a diverse menu of freshly prepared dishes and a wide selection of drinks, all at moderate prices. You can even watch our schnitzel being freshly prepared, breaded and deep-fried right in our restaurant! No matter the season, the MS Blue Danube provides the perfect opportunity to unwind and admire Vienna's beautiful shores as they glide by.
(shared tour, approximately 1.15 hours)
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Vienna Historical City Tour with Schönnbrunn Palace exterior and State Rooms
Our sightseeing adventure kicks off at Operngasse 8, leading us straight to the impressive Ringstrasse boulevard. Get ready to soak in some of Vienna's most iconic sights! First up, you'll marvel at the stunning Vienna State Opera, famous for hosting the annual "Opera Ball." Just a short stroll away is the magnificent Hofburg Palace, once the imperial family's winter home. As we continue, you'll see the monumental Museum of Art History and the Museum of Natural History. Our tour also includes the grand Parliament, the renowned Burgtheater and the striking City Hall. When we arrive at Schönbrunn Palace, your guided tour starts right away—no waiting around at Austria's most beloved spot. This former imperial summer residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, welcomes millions of visitors every year. Step back in time as we explore the historic staterooms, giving you a peek into how the imperial family once lived. You'll also have free time to wander through the breathtaking palace gardens or treat yourself to an authentic Viennese coffee and a slice of delicious apple strudel.
(shared tour, approximately 3.5 hours)
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 5-7
Vienna - Budapest
After breakfast, you’ll make your own way to the train station in Vienna and board your train to Budapest. Upon arrival, you’ll make your own way to your hotel, where you’ll spend the next 3 nights.
Budapest: The Pearl of the Danube
Straddling the majestic Danube River, Budapest is a city of striking contrasts and timeless beauty. Often called the "Pearl of the Danube," Hungary’s capital seamlessly blends its rich imperial past with a vibrant, youthful energy. From dramatic Gothic Revival architecture and grand thermal bathhouses to ruin bars and riverside promenades, Budapest offers a unique mix of history, relaxation and cutting-edge culture.
Wander through the cobbled streets of Buda’s Castle District, take in sweeping views from Fisherman’s Bastion and soak in centuries-old thermal waters at Széchenyi or Gellért Baths. Cross the iconic Chain Bridge to Pest, where the monumental Parliament Building and lively cafés reflect the city’s artistic soul. Whether you’re admiring the sunset over the Danube, exploring underground caves or enjoying a concert in an ornate church, Budapest enchants with its depth, charm and undeniable magic.
More Moments Activities Included
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Budapest Grand City Tour with Parliament
Join the Grand City Tour and see the most iconic attractions in Budapest. Enjoy the panoramic views from the hills of Buda and see the main sights on the Pest side. The tour commences from the Chain Bridge. First, we’ll take the Margaret Bridge and drive over to Buda. We’ll stop in the Castle District, where a short walk reveals its main attractions. Then, we’ll walk to Matthias Church and to the Fisherman’s Bastion (where you can enjoy the beautiful panoramas). Next, we’ll drive to the Gellért Hill (Citadel) and take in the most spectacular view of Budapest. We’ll then take you across the Elisabeth Bridge to Pest and show you the famous Central Market Hall, followed by the largest Synagogue of Europe and the City Park. We’ll pass by Europe’s largest thermal spa, the Budapest Zoo and the Amusement Park, before stopping at the Heroes Square (with statues of the most famous Hungarian kings and dukes). After that, we’ll take Andrássy Avenue to downtown Pest, passing by the Opera House and St Stephen’s Basilica. Finally, you’ll disembark the bus and enjoy an interior visit to the impressive neo-Gothic House of Parliament (guided tour included). The tour will provide a brief overview of the last 1000 years of Hungarian history.
(shared tour, approximately 4.5 hours)
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Budapest Evening Candlelight Cruise with Dinner
Enjoy your meal and let the breathtaking scenery of Budapest in the evening time by water delight you. Savour an à la carte candlelit dinner with the finest food, live music entertainment and professional service, all on board our panorama deck.
(shared tour, approximately 2.5 hours)
Meal(s): Breakfast, 1 dinner on the cruise
Day 8-10
Budapest - Prague
After breakfast, make your own way to the train station in Budapest and board your train to Prague. Upon arrival, make your own way to your hotel, where you’ll spend 3 nights.
Prague: The City of a Hundred Spires
With its enchanting skyline of Gothic spires and Baroque domes, Prague is a city straight out of a storybook. Nestled on the banks of the Vltava River, the Czech capital is one of Europe’s most beautifully preserved historic cities—a captivating blend of romance, mystery and architectural splendour.
Wander through the winding alleys of the Old Town, watch the Astronomical Clock strike the hour and cross the iconic Charles Bridge to reach the grandeur of Prague Castle—the largest ancient castle complex in the world. By day, explore vibrant cafés and charming bookshops, by night, listen to classical music echo through centuries-old concert halls or enjoy the city’s lively nightlife.
Prague’s magic lies in its contrasts: ancient yet modern, majestic yet intimate. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, look up and let history whisper through its cobblestone streets.
More Moments Activities Included
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Prague Grand City Tour
Get ready to experience the very best of Prague on this 2.5-hour excursion! From the comfort of our bus, you'll see famous landmarks like the National Museum and the National Theatre, explore the idyllic Lesser Town, and catch a glimpse of the majestic Prague Castle. Next, we'll embark on a fascinating walking tour through the Castle complex, including the magnificent St. Vitus Cathedral. After descending the castle steps, our journey continues around the iconic Charles Bridge to the Rudolfinum, where our excursion concludes.
(shared tour, approximately 2.5 hours)
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Prague Cruise on the Vltava River with Lunch
Take a break in Prague and join in for a peaceful lunch cruise along the Vltava River. As you enjoy a carefully prepared meal, you’ll glide past some of the city’s most beautiful sights, all from the comfort of a charming boat.
(shared tour, approximately 2 hours)
Meal(s): Breakfast (1 lunch on cruise)
Day 11
Return to Canada
After breakfast, take a private transfer to the airport and board your flight home to Canada.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Accommodations
Where you'll stay
4- Star accommodation
Location
Hotel
Room details
Type of bed(s): 1 single bed or 1 double bed or 2 twin beds
Room occupancy: Maximum 2 people
Unless otherwise specified, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Important Information
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June 1, 2026 – September 30, 2026
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Not included
- Meals and beverages (unless specified)
- Transfers to and from train stations and excursion meeting points
- Excursions and entrance fees (unless specified)
- Gratuities
- Porterage
- Local city taxes, if applicable, paid locally in local currency
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The More Moments activities/excursions mentioned in the itinerary are all included in the package but may be rescheduled to take place on an earlier or later day, depending on availability and operational day.
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- Private airport transfers
- Train 2nd Class
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City taxes, if applicable, are payable in local currency upon checkout. Rates vary depending on hotel star rating and location and are calculated per person, per night. Rates are subject to change without notice.