Central Europe: A Magical Christmas in Budapest, Vienna, and Prague by Train
Duration
12 DaysCategory
Guided tourFrench Accompanist
Date
Wednesday November 25 2026Description
Experience the magic of the holidays on an enchanting journey through the heart of Central Europe, discovering the historic gems of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. This train tour takes you to three iconic capitals, beautifully decorated for the Christmas season.
Begin your festive journey in Budapest, where Christmas markets illuminate historic squares and create a warm atmosphere along the Danube. Continue on to Vienna, an imperial city renowned for the elegance of its Christmas markets, its sumptuous palaces, and its refined atmosphere, making it a must-visit Advent destination.
End your journey in Prague, a true winter fairy tale. Its medieval alleyways, lively squares, and iconic Christmas market create a magical setting steeped in tradition and history.
This tour of Budapest, Vienna, and Prague promises a unique experience blending Christmas traditions, imperial heritage, and enchanting cityscapes, all comfortably connected by train across Central Europe.
Highlights:
-Panoramic tours of three key cities of the Austro-Hungarian Empire
-Free time to explore the Christmas markets with their magical atmosphere
-Opportunity to attend the St. Nicholas Day parade on December 5 in Prague
-Welcome dinner in each capital city
-2 train journeys, an original and eco-friendly way to discover Europe
Accommodation Categories:
Budapest: Roombach Hotel Budapest Center 3*
Vienna: Austria Trend Hotel Ananas 4*
Prague: Clarion Hotel Prague City 4*
*These hotels are for reference only and may be changed at any time to similar hotels.
*Hotel classifications comply with local standards in each country. Please note that hotel classification criteria differ from those in Canada.
The itinerary is subject to change without notice. The final itinerary will be available from your travel advisor!
The price shown is for two adults sharing a double room. Other dates and room types (single, triple, or quadruple) may be available. Price available upon request*.
Inclusions
Flights with KLM and Air France
2 train journeys in second class
All transfers
Transportation by deluxe motor coach
Accommodation for 10 nights
13 meals: 10 breakfasts (B), 3 dinners (D)
Services of a tour director
Services of local guides
Included activities (unless optional $):
Panoramic tour of Budapest
Admission to the Fisherman's Bastion
Admission to Matthias Church
Visit to the Hungarian Parliament Building
Train journey between Budapest and Vienna
Panoramic tour of Vienna
Visit to Schönbrunn Palace with audio guide
Train journey between Vienna and Prague
Panoramic tour of Prague
Visit to Prague Castle
Admission to Golden Lane
Audio guides on Days 3, 8, and 9
First checked baggage fee with the airline
Taxes and service charges
Compensation Fund for Customers of Travel Agents (FICAV)
Exclusions
Personal insurance
Meals or beverages not mentioned
Tips
Optional activities or excursions
Baggage handling
Urban transportation
Accommodation tax in Prague (approximately €3 per person, per night)
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions
Personal expenses
Départ garanti
Places available
10 PersonsItinerary
Flight to Budapest Departure for Budapest with connecting flights. Overnight journey to Central Europe and its enchanting Christmas markets.
Budapest Arrival in Budapest, the elegant capital of Hungary beautifully divided by the majestic Danube River. Meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel for a three-night stay. Enjoy free time for a first introduction to the city and its magical winter atmosphere.
Budapest and Its Imperial Treasures Panoramic tour of Budapest including a drive up to the Citadel for breathtaking views over the Danube and the historic districts of Buda and Pest. Discover the UNESCO-listed Buda district, including visits to the magnificent Fisherman's Bastion and the beautiful Matthias Church. You will also see the Royal Palace and Parade Square before continuing to the lively Pest district dominated by the impressive Hungarian Parliament Building. The tour continues past St. Stephen’s Basilica, Andrássy Avenue, Heroes’ Square and the famous Váci shopping street. Welcome dinner in the evening near your hotel.
Hungarian Parliament and Christmas Markets Visit the spectacular Hungarian Parliament Building with an audio guide. Inspired by some of Europe’s most iconic landmarks, this neo-Gothic masterpiece impresses visitors with its extraordinary architecture and lavish interiors. Free afternoon to enjoy the famous Christmas markets of Budapest, known for their charming wooden stalls, artisan crafts and delicious local specialties such as mulled wine and Kürtőskalács, the traditional chimney cake. Optional evening Danube River cruise including dinner.
Budapest – Vienna Transfer to the train station and journey by rail to Vienna, the prestigious capital of Austria. Upon arrival, enjoy a panoramic tour along the famous Ringstrasse, Vienna’s grand boulevard lined with palaces and monumental buildings reflecting the splendor of the Habsburg Empire. See the City Hall, the University, the Austrian Parliament, the Vienna State Opera and several of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Walk through the historic center to admire the magnificent St. Stephen's Cathedral and the elegant shopping streets surrounding Kärntnerstrasse. Entrance into the courtyards of the imperial Hofburg Palace before checking in at your hotel. Welcome dinner included.
Vienna and Schönbrunn Palace Visit the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace with an audio guide, the former summer residence of the Habsburg dynasty and one of Austria’s most iconic landmarks. Enjoy the famous Christmas market held at the palace, celebrated for its magical atmosphere, handcrafted goods, local specialties and festive performances. Free afternoon to continue discovering Vienna at your own pace.
Vienna at Leisure Free day in the Austrian capital to soak in its imperial elegance and festive Christmas ambiance. You may choose to follow your tour leader to explore the world of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart or sample the famous Mozartkugeln, delicious chocolate specialties associated with Vienna. Illuminated streets, historic cafés and charming Christmas markets make this day especially memorable.
Vienna – Prague Transfer to the train station and departure for Prague, the historic jewel of Bohemia. Upon arrival, panoramic tour of the Czech capital. Discover the royal hill of Hradčany, the charming district of Malá Strana and the iconic Charles Bridge. Continue to the Old Town Square featuring the famous astronomical clock and the stunning churches of Our Lady before Týn and St. James. You will also follow the Royal Route lined with magnificent baroque palaces leading to the Powder Tower and the Municipal House, an Art Nouveau masterpiece. Check-in at your hotel and welcome dinner.
Prague Castle Guided excursion to the spectacular Prague Castle, a symbol of Czech power since the 9th century. Visit the impressive St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica and the famous Golden Lane with its colorful historic houses. House number 22 was once home to writer Franz Kafka.
Prague and Its Christmas Markets Free day to explore Prague at your own pace. Enjoy the festive Christmas markets, visit one of the city’s many museums, relax in a historic café or browse the traditional boutiques of the Old Town.
Prague and St. Nicholas Celebrations Another free day in the Czech capital to enjoy the traditional Mikuláš celebrations held on December 5th. In the late afternoon, head to Old Town Square or Wenceslas Square to witness the folkloric procession of St. Nicholas, the angel and the devil, one of Prague’s most beloved holiday traditions. This festive atmosphere makes Prague one of Europe’s most magical winter destinations.
Prague – Return Transfer to the airport in Prague and return flights with connections. End of your unforgettable holiday journey through the Christmas markets of Budapest, Vienna and Prague.
From5449.00 $
CAD
per person double occupancy



