One of the most anticipated times of the year is approaching.
It is time for our big annual trip and this year we are heading to Central / Eastern Europe! Big Hurrah!
I am beyond excited since all the cities in this trip are new to me (and most countries too, I have only been to Austria).
On top of that, I was able to secure tickets and accommodations at the end of the summer season. That means the weather is going to be ideal (low 80s / high 70s), the crowds are going to be small (I hope) and most Danube river excursions will still be operating (they stop operations when the river flow is low).
Here is a list of the places we will be visiting.
Table of Contents
Budapest
Later this week, we will be flying to the Hungarian capital. In there, we expect to visit Castle Hill, the Parliament, Saint Stephens Basilica, the main drags in Pest and, at least, one of the Thermal Baths. Of course, our journey will not be complete without visiting the Great Market Hall and the New York Café. In addition, we have booked a Danube Bend excursion and a bicycle tour.
Vienna
For one reason or another, my plans for Vienna are still fuzzy. All I know is that I do not want to miss the Lipizzaner Stallions performing their daily exercises at the Spanish Riding School.
Other than that, I would like to stop by the Schonbrunn and Hofburg Palaces, Saint Stephen’s Cathedral and the Prater. In addition, I have a long list of all the pastries I want to try in the city (and the places where to get them). I have heard the ice cream if great in there too. As a market lover, I would love to stop by the Naschmarkt.
We will be doing a Wachau Valley Boat Excursion too.
Bratislava
We will visit the city as a daytrip from Vienna. I already have a walking tour that cover the city’s main sight such as the Old Town, the Castle and the UFO Bridge.
Cesky Krumlov
I am completely in love with the pictures I have seen of this small town. Therefore, I could have not left it outside our travel plans.
Most people visit the town as a daytrip from Prague. The thing is that it takes three hours to go from one city to another. And that is one way!
Because of that, I figured it is going to be easier to stop when transiting from Vienna to Prague. We will have a bit more than half day to explore the town. Doesn’t sound like much but it is better than nothing.
Prague
I know Prague is a gorgeous city. I mean that is why I was initially attracted to it. But, research has shown me how much of a foodie city Prague is. Yes, I have plans to stop by the Prague Castle, Old Town, Charles Bridge, the Jewish Quarter and the Dancing House. But, I am planning to do all that while eating the best of the city (I can’t wait).
Krakow
We will close our trip with a visit to Royal Krakow. Since it is the last city on the itinerary, my plans are not concrete yet. My husband and I are discussing if it is a good idea to visit Auchwitz. I have been to a concentration camp before and have to say it is very depressing. My husband has never visited one, so, this may be his opportunity. I have heart Polish food is delicious. We are looking forward to all the great treats waiting for us.
After Krakow, it is back to Budapest for a day.
So, there you have it, my upcoming travel plans. Have you been to one of these cities? What are your recommendations? I am eager to see read all your fantastic suggestions!
Mandy says
Wow! You have quite the trip planned! The only city I’ve been to on your list was Prague, which I visited during the winter. I’m looking forward to hearing your tales of all the other places on your travel itinerary that I’ve yet to visit. Vienna and Krakow are definitely on my bucket list, so it will be awesome to read what you did when you get back from visiting them. 🙂
Ruth says
Well, I think winter is a special time to visit this cities. I do not like cold that much, so, I am happy I will visit when the weather is warm. I am looking forward to visiting the cities.
Photo Cache says
Yay, what an awesome line-up. I cannot wait to read your documentation. I too am eyeing this bloc of nations as destinations.
Ruth says
I have been wanting to visit for some time. I am happy the time has finally arrived.
image-in-ing: weekly photo linky says
You’ll have such wonderful opportunities – and I hope you’ll have a grand time.
Thank you for linking up at http://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2016/08/along-eno-river.html
Ruth says
Thanks a lot! You are so sweet!
Rhonda Albom says
I have been to some of these cities. Your trip plan looks like fun.
Ruth says
Thanks Rhonda! I am sure these cities are tons of fun.
Alexa T says
What wonderful trip you’ll have!! Have a very lovely travel time!
Ruth says
Thanks Alexa! I appreciate your good wishes.
Courtney @ Adelante says
So exciting!!! I’m sure you will have an amazing time, and I can’t wait to read more about your adventures! Taking a tour of the opera house was surprisingly one of my favorite things to do in Vienna. The architecture is sublime, and its history was fascinating to learn about! I also recommend going to the Palmenhaus for dinner 🙂
Lolo says
Wow you’ll have such a great time! They’re all great places! I’ve visited all of them except for Krakow! Still havent made it there yet! Be sure to check out my post about Cesky Krumlov – a highly recommend a traditional medieval Czech meal! (https://caliglobetrotter.wordpress.com/2015/06/07/cesky-krumlov-a-perfectly-preserved-medieval-town/)
#WanderfulWednesday
Ava @ My Meena Life says
I’ve recently visited Vienna and Krakow. Maybe my tips could help?
If you like zoos, the one at Schonbrunn is very good and you can get 1 euro off per ticket if you purchase them on their website. Also, please go to the amusement park in Prater – at least for the Ferris Wheel if nothing else (I wrote about visiting Wurstelprater on my blog recently if you’re curious).
I highly recommend visiting the Zakrzówek quarry in Krakow – it took my breath away. Also, about Auschwitz, we visited it and it was overwhelmingly touristy (actually just shared a post about it on my blog today – we seem to have much in common here). Feel free to email me if you have any questions.
Have a great trip!!
Different Shores says
Cesky Krumlov is really nice. If you get the chance go into the tiny puppet museum there (Marionette Museum, Český Krumlov). It’s worth it. It’s cheap to get in and all the puppets are hanging in one large attic – quite spooky; like a fairy tale. They aren’t behind glass or anything, just hanging from the ceiling in this historic building. It’s very Czech and I loved it.
#WanderfulWednesday (excuse lateness!)
Clare (Suitcases and Sandcastles) says
It’s always so exciting planning a trip and this one looks particularly enticing. I’ve only been to Prague and Vienna on your list so shall look forward to reading about your adventures.
Van @ Snow in Tromso says
I’ve only been to Prague once but am curious to see Vienna and Budapest as well. Especially the latter seems to have become really popular lately!
Marcella ~ WhatAWonderfulWorld says
This sounds like such an amazing trip! I’ve been to four of these cities and loved them all! Prague was probably my favourite as there is so much to do and see. A must do in Budapest are the baths – they are amazing! 🙂
Photo(Geo)grapher says
Great trip to the beautiful cities.
Isabel says
Try the zapekankis at the old market in the jewish quarters in Krakow, they are sooo good and it a local specialty! Take the free walking tour there as well and try the dumplings. Visit the Strahov monastery in Prague for the beer there. And visit the Schonbrunn palace in Vienna, it is gorgeous! You will have a lovely time!
Merlinda Little (Glimmer of Hope) says
One of the reason why I wanted to visit these is the Architecture! Amazing and stunning! #photofriday
jill says
Sounds delightful! I haven’t been to Europe in quite some time so I think I’m overdue for a trip there. Our big trip this year is to Napa/Sonoma which is the only part of California I haven’t been to. (And it’s a big trip for us cause we live on the East Coast ha ha!) Have fun and I can’t wait to read all about it!
Ahila says
That looks like a great trip! Enjoy your travels, Ruth, and look forward to your posts and photos on your trip!
Ruth Daly says
What a wonderful trip. Can’t wait to see your photos!
Sharon says
What a fantastic trip you have planned! We are heading soon to London, Amsterdam, the Rhine, and Paris. I’m already planning the next trip, though, and I think it will be much like yours. I’ve never been to these places and I so want to go! I’ll look forward to your posts about all your adventures!
Allison says
That sounds like a great trip! I have been to Vienna and loved it. Although, I hope you have better weather than I did. I went with my parents in 2008 during December and it was rainy and freezing. But we still had fun. I have never been to Auschwitz but, as a WWII buff, I would love to. I’ve heard that although it is sad, there is kind of a hallowed feeling there. #WeekendWanderlust
Trekking with Becky says
I envy you so much! I haven’t been to any of these places yet, but I’m going to Krakow next year. Auschwitz is on my bucket list. Of course, it’s going to be incredibly sad and depressing, but it’ll be worth it.
I’m looking forward to seeing your photos and reading all about your trips! 😀
Lauren says
Wow, these sure are some exciting travel plans!! I’ve been to Prague, Budapest and Vienna and you’re going to love them! Make sure you check out some hot springs in Budapest and go to the street food market in Vienna! Look for the falafel stand! Best I’ve ever had 😀
Tara says
What a great time of year to visit Europe! I haven’t been to Eastern Europe, and am totally jealous. I’ll have to live vicariously through your travels and your amazing photos! Have a safe and relaxing trip!
Lara Dunning says
This sounds like a wonderful itenerary. Looking forward to hearing about your travels and seeing your pics, particularly the ones with food!
Kreete says
Some great destinations you have there! This brings back memories of my time travelling in Europe and I can’t wait to do it again! I am sure you will love it and make sure to keep us posted once you come back!