We chose a package through Great Value Vacations, and today, we’re sitting down to share every detail of our experience. From the cobblestone streets of Hungary to the imperial palaces of Austria and the nostalgic vibes of the Czech Republic, this trip was a whirlwind of history, culture, and (most importantly) incredible food. If you’ve been dreaming of a Central European getaway, grab a cup of coffee and join us as we walk you through our journey!

The Joy of “Structured Freedom”

One of the biggest questions we had when booking was whether to go fully independent or join a guided tour. We eventually landed on a package that offered what we like to call “structured freedom.” Great Value Vacations handled the “scary” stuff—the international flights, our hotels in each city, and the transportation between countries—but left our daily itineraries completely up to us.

For a couple celebrating an anniversary, this was perfect. We didn’t have to worry about how to get from the airport to the hotel or how to navigate train bookings between Budapest and Vienna. Instead, we could focus on the fun parts: which museum to visit, where to find the best sunset view, and which café served the most decadent cake.

Falling in Love with Budapest: The City of Romance

Our journey began in Budapest, Hungary, and it didn’t take long for this city to steal our hearts. There is an undeniable romantic charm to Budapest, especially as the sun begins to set. We spent our evenings walking along the Danube River, watching the lights of the Parliament Building and the Buda Castle reflect off the water. We noticed so many couples simply sitting by the river, soaking in the atmosphere. It’s a city that practically begs you to slow down and enjoy the moment.

One of our favorite parts of Budapest was the sheer history embedded in the architecture. Every corner felt like a story. If we had one regret, it was not having an extra day here. We really wanted to visit the famous thermal baths, but with our pre-set travel schedule, we had to prioritize. Still, the time we did have was magical.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting Budapest, prioritize the riverfront at night. It’s one of the most beautiful sights in all of Europe!

Vienna: Elegance, History, and Imperial Grandeur

Next, we headed to Vienna, Austria. If Budapest is romantic and moody, Vienna is grand and polished. It consistently ranks as one of the world’s most livable cities, and it’s easy to see why. The public transportation is incredibly efficient, the parks are pristine, and the architecture is breathtakingly imperial.

Before our trip, we watched the series The Empress, which follows the life of Empress Elisabeth (Sisi). Walking through the Hofburg Palace and seeing the history of the Habsburg Empire come to life made the experience so much richer. We even treated ourselves to a classical concert, which felt like the quintessential Viennese experience.

We found Vienna to be the most “organized” stop of our trip. Everything works like clockwork, making it a very stress-free environment for travelers.

Prague: A Nostalgic Step Back in Time

Our final stop was Prague, Czech Republic, and it offered a vibe completely different from the first two cities. To us, Prague felt wonderfully nostalgic. As children of the 80s, we were struck by how much the city reminded us of that era. From the music playing in the cafes to the general atmosphere of the train stations and car-shares, it felt like a vibrant, living time capsule.

Prague is full of life. It’s busy, energetic, and packed with landmarks like the Charles Bridge and Old Town Square. Despite the crowds, it maintains a cozy, approachable feel. We spent hours wandering through the winding alleys, discovering hidden courtyards and quirky shops.

The Great Goulash Debate: Our Winner Revealed!

You can’t visit Central Europe without talking about Goulash. We made it our personal mission to try this iconic dish in all three countries. Each version had its own unique twist:

• Austria: Often served with bread dumplings and a refined, hearty sauce.
• Czech Republic: Usually thicker, more like a stew, often served with onions and bread.
• Hungary: This was the clear winner for us!

The Hungarian goulash was rich, deep in flavor, and simply unforgettable. It had a complexity that we kept dreaming about long after we left. While we enjoyed every version we tried, Hungary definitely took home the “Best Goulash” trophy for our family!

Practical Tips for Your Own European Adventure

While we loved the package experience, we learned a few things along the way that can help you plan your own trip:

1. Prepare for Walking: We cannot stress this enough—wear comfortable shoes! While public transit is great, you will easily clock 10,000 to 20,000 steps a day exploring these historic centers. If you get tired, we recommend trying the electric scooters or bikes available in the cities to give your feet a break.
2. Study the Transit Early: Every city has a different system for validating tickets. Take some time to watch YouTube tutorials or read local guides before you arrive so you don’t end up with a fine.
3. Be Flexible with Delays: Even with a pre-arranged package, things happen. Our train from Vienna to Prague was delayed, turning a two-hour trip into a four-hour journey. We had to adjust our plans on the fly, but staying positive kept the mood light.
4. Prioritize Your “Must-Sees”: Because the transportation between cities is fixed, your time is limited. Make a list of the top two things you want to see in each city and do those first. Anything else is a bonus!

Our Final Verdict: Is a Package Trip Right for You?

So, was the Great Value Vacations package worth it? For us, the answer is a resounding yes. Having the logistics of flights, hotels, and inter-city travel handled allowed us to actually enjoy our anniversary rather than stressing over bookings.

We think this type of package is perfect for:

• Seasoned Travelers: Who want to focus on the experience rather than the planning.
• Milestone Celebrations: Where you want a guaranteed level of comfort and structure.

However, if it’s your very first time traveling internationally, you might want to consider a fully guided tour or perhaps choosing just two cities instead of three to allow for a more relaxed pace.

We left Europe with full hearts, tired feet, and a lifetime of memories. Budapest, Vienna, and Prague are three gems that every traveler should see at least once. Whether it’s for an anniversary or just a family getaway, these cities offer a glimpse into a world of history and beauty that is truly second to none.

From the moment we arrived, we felt a surprising “80s vibe”—perhaps it was the music drifting through our car-share rides, the cozy atmosphere of the local coffee shops, or the warm, unpretentious hospitality. It felt like a beautiful blast from the past, wrapped in the grandeur of Gothic and Baroque architecture. If you’re looking for a family destination that balances history with pure, whimsical fun, join us as we walk you through our three-day journey in the heart of the Czech Republic.

Overcoming Travel Hiccups and Finding Magic

Our adventure didn’t exactly start according to plan. What was supposed to be a breezy two-hour train ride from Vienna turned into a four-and-a-half-hour trek due to rail cancellations. As any traveling family knows, flexibility is your best friend! We adjusted our sails, kept the snacks handy, and finally made it to Prague, albeit a bit later than expected.

On our way to the hotel, we caught our first glimpse of the Dancing House. Also known as “Fred and Ginger,” this architectural marvel is a must-see. Its curvy, whimsical structure stands out against the more traditional historic buildings, symbolizing the country’s transition from communism to democracy. It was the perfect “Welcome to Prague” moment for us.

We checked into the Lindner Hotel Prague Castle, and we couldn’t have asked for a better home base. Tucked away in a peaceful part of the city, just a stone’s throw from the Castle, the hotel exudes old-world elegance. Our rooms were spacious and managed to blend modern comforts with beautiful historical touches—a peaceful retreat after a long day of travel.

Day 1: Panoramic Views and Electric Scooters

After a quick rest, we were eager to stretch our legs. A 15-minute walk from our hotel brought us to the Petřín Tower. Built in 1891 and modeled after the Eiffel Tower, this structure is a symbol of Czech ingenuity. We climbed to the top, and the reward was a panoramic view that took our breath away. The red rooftops of Prague stretched out like a vivid tapestry, with the Vltava River winding through the center. We spent quite a while pointing out all the landmarks we planned to visit.

Feeling a surge of energy, we decided to try something a bit more modern: electric scooters! It was such a fun and efficient way to zip through the local area. The kids loved the speed, and we loved how much ground we could cover. We headed back to the hotel for a cozy dinner, already feeling the magic of the city sinking in.

Day 2: Cobblestones, Bridges, and Jewish Heritage

Our second day kicked off with a ride on the funicular from Petřín to Újezd. There’s something so charming about funiculars—they make you feel like you’re part of a vintage travel film.

From there, we wandered through the winding cobblestone streets toward Kampa Island. This area has such a vibrant, artistic atmosphere. We made a beeline for the famous John Lennon Wall. It’s a colorful symbol of peace and freedom, covered in layers of graffiti and heartfelt messages. It’s a living tribute that constantly evolves, and we loved seeing the new expressions of love and hope left by visitors from all over the world.

Next, we reached the crown jewel of Prague: Charles Bridge. You might recognize this iconic spot from Hollywood blockbusters like Mission Impossible. Walking across the bridge, surrounded by street performers, souvenir stalls, and majestic statues, you truly feel the “cinematic” nature of Prague. The view of the Vltava River from the bridge is something we’ll never forget.

Our journey continued through the Jewish Quarter (Josefov). We took our time capturing photos of the stunning historic synagogues. The architecture here tells a profound story of the city’s rich Jewish heritage, and it was a quiet, reflective moment in our otherwise busy day.

The Heart of the City: Old Town Square

Eventually, we emerged into the bustling Old Town Square. This is where the energy of Prague really comes alive. The square is a masterpiece of unique architecture, with every building telling its own story. We spent some time people-watching and browsing the local shops. We even passed by Havel’s Market, the oldest market in the city—a great spot for unique souvenirs.

Of course, we couldn’t visit Prague without indulging in the local food! We savored traditional Czech dishes, letting the rich, hearty flavors fuel us for more exploring.

Before leaving the square, we stopped to admire the Prague Astronomical Clock. It’s a medieval masterpiece and the third oldest in the world (dating back to 1410!). While the animated procession of the 12 Apostles is a bit modest compared to modern entertainment, seeing a 600-year-old clock still ticking is truly impressive.

We ended our day at Wenceslas Square, a vibrant hub lined with Art Nouveau and Neo-Renaissance buildings. It’s a lively area that has witnessed many of Prague’s most significant historical events.

Day 3: Castles, Kafka, and Quirky Corners

Our final day was a bit more relaxed. We took a leisurely stroll to Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world. While we didn’t go inside this time, we caught the changing of the guards at the front gate and marveled at the stunning Gothic architecture.

We then descended the Zámecké schody (Castle Steps), winding our way down through the picturesque neighborhood of Malá Strana. The views of the iconic red-roofed houses from here are legendary—perfect for those family photos!

A Tribute to Franz Kafka

Prague is deeply connected to the writer Franz Kafka, and we made sure to visit two of the most unique tributes to him. First, the Franz Kafka Statue, which depicts him riding on the shoulders of a headless figure—a nod to the surreal themes in his work. Nearby, we saw the Rotating Franz Kafka Head, a massive kinetic sculpture by David Černý. Watching the silver layers rotate and realign is mesmerizing!

Evening Magic and Narrow Streets

As the sun began to set, we couldn’t resist one last walk toward Charles Bridge to see it illuminated. Along the way, we stumbled upon Prague’s narrowest street—it’s so thin that it actually has traffic lights for pedestrians so people don’t get stuck!

We also came across the quirky “Piss” sculpture by David Černý, which added a touch of humor and whimsy to our final evening. We finished our trip at Park Holna, waiting for nightfall to capture the perfect photo of the glowing Charles Bridge against the dark river.

Final Reflections on Our Prague Adventure

Prague was the perfect conclusion to our European adventure. From the historic spires to the 80s-inspired coffee shops, it’s a city that manages to feel both ancient and welcoming. We left with full hearts, tired feet, and memories that we know will last a lifetime.

If you’re planning a family trip to Europe, don’t let a few train delays stop you. Prague is a city that rewards the curious, the adventurous, and the hungry. We can’t wait to share more of our travel tips with you soon!

After an incredible start to our European vacation in the vibrant streets of Budapest, we hopped on a comfortable two-hour train ride and arrived at Vienna’s main station (Wien Hauptbahnhof) around 11:30 AM. We were buzzing with excitement. As a family, we’ve always loved cities that blend history with a modern, cozy vibe, and Vienna promised all of that and more.

If you’re planning a trip to the Austrian capital, come along with us as we share our personal journey through the palaces, coffee houses, and cobblestone streets of this magnificent city.

First Impressions and the Flavors of Naschmarkt

After dropping our bags at the hotel, our very first mission was to find food—and not just any food. We headed straight for the Naschmarkt, Vienna’s most famous market. If you’re a foodie family like us, this place is paradise. It’s a sensory overload in the best way possible, with stalls overflowing with colorful spices, olives, cheeses, and fresh produce.

We wandered through the bustling lanes before settling down at a local restaurant for a massive seafood platter. There’s something about sitting in the heart of a historic market, watching the world go by while enjoying fresh flavors, that makes you realize you’ve truly arrived.

Pro Tip: Naschmarkt can get very crowded on Saturdays, so if you prefer a quieter stroll, try visiting on a weekday morning.

To burn off lunch, we took a leisurely walk down Mariahilfer Straße. This is one of Vienna’s busiest shopping streets, and it’s perfect for window shopping or picking up a few European fashion finds. Of course, no family walk is complete without a treat! On our way back to the hotel, we stumbled upon a shop serving “Berry Bubble Waffles.” Indulgent, messy, and absolutely delicious—it was the perfect sweet end to our first day.

Culture, Castles, and the Legend of Empress Sisi

Day two was all about diving deep into the imperial history that defines Vienna. We started our morning at the MuseumsQuartier (MQ). This area is a fascinating mix of Baroque buildings and modern architecture. It’s a great spot for kids to run around a bit, and for parents to snap some high-quality photos.

A Hidden Gem for Sunset: Here is a tip we picked up during our stay—head up to the Leopold Museum Cafe. Not only is the coffee great, but it offers a stunning elevated view of the entire MuseumsQuartier. It’s arguably the best spot in the city to watch the sunset.

Just a short walk away is Maria-Theresien-Platz, where two identical, grand buildings face each other: the Natural History Museum and the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Art History). Even if you don’t have time to go inside, the architecture alone is breathtaking. We paused for a moment at the Mozart Monument in the nearby Burggarten. As a family that appreciates music, seeing the statue of the world’s most famous composer surrounded by flowers was a lovely tribute to Vienna’s heritage.

Stepping Into a Storybook at the Hofburg

One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Sisi Museum at the Hofburg Palace. Before our trip, we had actually watched The Empress on Netflix, which made seeing Empress Elisabeth’s (Sisi’s) actual apartments so much more meaningful.

Walking through the opulent rooms, you get a real sense of her complex life—her beauty, her struggles, and her ultimate legend. While cameras aren’t allowed inside the apartments, the memory of those gold-leafed ceilings and personal artifacts is something we’ll carry with us for a long time. It really felt like we were walking through the pages of a history book.

The Ultimate Viennese Culinary Experience

By the afternoon, we had worked up a serious appetite. You cannot visit Vienna without experiencing its legendary coffee house culture, so we headed to the world-famous Cafe Central.

Stepping inside is like traveling back in time. The vaulted ceilings and elegant interiors have hosted literary giants and historical figures for over a century. We decided to go all-in on traditional Viennese cuisine:

• Wiener Schnitzel: Perfectly thin, crispy, and golden.
• Hearty Goulash with Potatoes: Rich and comforting.
• Wiener Melange: A classic Viennese coffee that is a must-try.
• Kaiserschmarrn: This was the star of the show! It’s a fluffy, shredded pancake dessert served with plum compote. We may have fought over the last bite.

Practical Insight: Cafe Central is incredibly popular. We waited about 45 minutes to be seated, which isn’t bad for such an iconic spot, but we highly recommend making a reservation ahead of time to save your feet!

Music, Lights, and the Magic of the Musicverein

After lunch, we took a slow stroll past the Vienna Plague Column, an ornate Baroque monument that stands as a reminder of the city’s resilience. The surrounding area is filled with high-end shops and beautiful side streets that are perfect for getting “lost” in.

As evening fell, we prepared for a truly “Vienna” moment: a classical concert at the Musikverein. Known as one of the finest concert halls in the world, the acoustics and the “Golden Hall” architecture are simply mind-blowing. Sitting there together, listening to the strings swell in such a historic venue, was an unforgettable experience. Even though we couldn’t record the performance, the feeling of the music stayed with us long after we left.

Day Three: Imperial Gardens and Giant Ferris Wheels

For our final day, we relied on Vienna’s incredibly efficient U-Bahn (train system) to head slightly out of the city center to Schönbrunn Palace. This was the summer residence of the Habsburgs, and “stunning” doesn’t even begin to describe it.

We spent the entire morning wandering the expansive gardens. The scale of the grounds is massive—you could easily spend half a day just walking the trails and visiting the Gloriette hill for a view of the palace. If you want to go inside the palace to see the 40 rooms open to the public, make sure to book your tickets well in advance!

A Dash of Fun at Prater

To balance out the history with some modern-day fun, we hopped back on the train to the Prater Amusement Park. This isn’t your typical theme park; it has a nostalgic, vintage charm that we loved.

The main event here is the Wiener Riesenrad (The Giant Ferris Wheel). Built in 1897, it’s a symbol of the city. Riding in the wooden cabins and rising 65 meters above the ground gave us breathtaking panoramic views of Vienna. Seeing the city from that height as the sun began to dip was the perfect way to say goodbye to this beautiful place.

Final Thoughts on our Vienna Adventure

Vienna captured our hearts with its elegance and its “Gemütlichkeit”—that special German word for coziness and soulfulness. From the efficient public transport that made traveling as a family a breeze to the rich layers of history found on every corner, it was a trip we won’t soon forget.

Whether you’re a history buff, a classical music lover, or just someone who wants to eat their weight in schnitzel and pancakes, Vienna has something for everyone. We left with tired feet but very full hearts.

We booked this adventure through Great Value Vacations, and while we aren’t sponsored, we chose it specifically for the convenience and value it offered for a multi-city trip. This was our first time exploring Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic, and Budapest was the perfect place to kick things off. Whether you’re traveling as a couple or bringing the whole family along, this city offers a blend of fairy-tale architecture and vibrant culture that is impossible not to fall in love with.

Join us as we recount our favorite memories and share our tips for making the most of a short stay in this breathtaking city!

Stepping Into a Foodie’s Paradise: The Central Market Hall

After landing around 2:00 p.m. and checking into our hotel, we didn’t waste a second. We dropped our bags, freshened up, and set out on a 20-minute walk to the Central Market Hall (Nagyvásárcsarnok).

As soon as we stepped inside, we were hit with the vibrant energy of a marketplace that has been the heart of the city since the 1890s. The architecture alone is worth the trip—the grand facade and the colorful Zsolnay tiled roof make it look more like a cathedral than a grocery market. Inside, it’s a feast for the senses. We wandered past stalls overflowing with fresh produce, strings of dried paprika, and local meats and cheeses.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for authentic souvenirs, head to the second floor for handmade crafts and traditional Hungarian embroidery. It’s a great place to pick up gifts for family back home!

A Stroll Down Vaci Street to the Banks of the Danube

From the market, we took a leisurely stroll down Vaci Street (Váci utca). This is one of Budapest’s most famous pedestrian thoroughfares, lined with everything from high-end fashion boutiques to cozy cafes. We loved the lively atmosphere; it’s the kind of place where you can just wander and soak in the city’s vibe.

As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, we reached the banks of the Danube. To truly see Budapest, you have to see it from the water. We embarked on a river cruise, and let us tell you, there is nothing quite like seeing the city lights begin to twinkle against the dark river. Passing by the iconic landmarks we’d be visiting the next day gave us a whole new perspective on how grand this city really is. It was a peaceful, romantic way to end our first evening.

The Tale of Two Cities: Exploring Buddha and Pesh

The next morning, we woke up early, determined to make the most of our only full day. One of the coolest things about Budapest is that it’s actually two distinct cities joined together: Buddha and Pesh.

• Buddha: The hilly, historic side where you’ll find the castle and the most stunning views.
• Pesh: The flatter, bustling side known for its lively streets, the Parliament, and the St. Stephen’s Basilica.

We started our morning on the Buddha side at Gellért Hill. The climb offered us some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Seeing the Danube winding between the two halves of the city really helped us get our bearings.

Fairytales and History at Buddha Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion

Just a short walk from Gellért Hill, we took the funicular up to Buddha Castle. Walking through the castle grounds felt like we had stepped back in time. The ancient walls and cobblestone streets have a dramatic flair that makes every corner feel like a photo opportunity.

But the real showstopper for us was Fisherman’s Bastion. If you’ve seen photos of Budapest, chances are you’ve seen this fairy-tale-like terrace. With its white stone turrets and lookout towers, it looks like something straight out of a Disney movie. From here, we had a perfect, unobstructed view of the Hungarian Parliament building across the river. It’s easily one of the most picturesque spots in the entire city.

Crossing the Iconic Chain Bridge

After soaking in the views, we decided to walk across the Chain Bridge. This bridge is more than just a way to get across the river; it was the first permanent bridge to connect Buddha and Pesh, symbolizing the unification of the city in the 19th century. Walking across, with the wind in our hair and the massive stone lions guarding the entrance, we felt the true weight of Hungarian history.

Reflection at the Hungarian Parliament and the Shoes on the Danube

As we reached the Pesh side, we were greeted by the Grand Hungarian Parliament building. It is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture and even more imposing in person than in pictures.

A short walk from the Parliament brought us to a much more somber site: the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial. This is a deeply moving tribute to the victims of the Holocaust who were killed at the river’s edge. Seeing the iron shoes—men’s, women’s, and even tiny children’s shoes—lined up along the water is a powerful and emotional reminder of the past. It was a moment of quiet reflection for us amidst our busy day of sightseeing.

A Taste of Hungary: Goulash and Chimney Cakes

You can’t visit Hungary without indulging in the local flavors! We finally sat down to try the legendary Hungarian Goulash. Since we are visiting Austria and the Czech Republic on this same trip, we’ve made it our mission to try the goulash in every country and crown a winner at the end!

For dessert, we grabbed a “Chimney Cake” (Kürtőskalács). This is a warm, spiral-shaped pastry that is crisp and caramelized on the outside and soft on the inside. We opted for the cinnamon coating, and it was the perfect sweet treat to fuel our walk back to the hotel.

Final Thoughts on Budapest

Our time in Budapest was a whirlwind of history, culture, and unforgettable family moments. While we didn’t have time to squeeze in a visit to the famous thermal baths this time around, it’s already at the top of our list for our next visit!

Budapest has a way of getting under your skin. It’s grand yet welcoming, historic yet vibrant. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary like we were or just looking for a new family adventure, this city is a treasure waiting to be discovered.

Next up, we’re heading to Vienna, Austria—the city of music and emperors! We can’t wait to share that part of our journey with you.