road trip from amsterdam to budapest

40 Best Stops Between Amsterdam and Budapest

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How long is the drive from Amsterdam to Budapest?

The direct drive from Amsterdam to Budapest is 869 mi (1,398 km) , and should have a drive time of 11 hrs 47 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Amsterdam to Budapest, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Vienna , Munich , Salzburg , Cologne , Bratislava , Frankfurt , Stuttgart , Nuremberg , Heidelberg , and Dusseldorf , as well as top places to visit like English Garden and Allianz Arena, or the ever-popular Deutsches Museum.

road trip from amsterdam to budapest

Top cities between Amsterdam and Budapest

road trip from amsterdam to budapest

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road trip from amsterdam to budapest

Best stops along Amsterdam to Budapest drive

Deutsches museum.

road trip from amsterdam to budapest

English Garden

road trip from amsterdam to budapest

Allianz Arena

St peter cathedral, diana observation tower, herrenchiemsee new palace, old pilsner urquell brewery water tower, kitzsteinhorn, mirabell palace, fortress hohensalzburg, altstadt salzburg, grossglockner high alpine road, the eagle's nest, st. stephan's cathedral.

road trip from amsterdam to budapest

Don’t forget to pack anything

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road trip from amsterdam to budapest

Salzwelten Hallstatt

road trip from amsterdam to budapest

State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov

St. jost church, zipline stoderzinken, old town of graz, špilberk castle, schönbrunn palace.

road trip from amsterdam to budapest

Historisches Zentrum von Wien

St. stephen's cathedral.

road trip from amsterdam to budapest

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road trip from amsterdam to budapest

Belvedere Palace

Bratislava castle, top searches in budapest, other popular road trips from amsterdam, explore nearby places.

  • Torokbalint
  • Pilisborosjeno
  • Halasztelek
  • Szigetszentmiklos
  • Szazhalombatta
  • Dunavarsany
  • Pilisszentkereszt

All related maps of Budapest

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  • Map of Vecses
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  • Map of Dunavarsany
  • Map of Perbal
  • Map of Maglod
  • Map of Pilisszentkereszt

Budapest throughout the year

  • Budapest in January
  • Budapest in February
  • Budapest in March
  • Budapest in April
  • Budapest in May
  • Budapest in June
  • Budapest in July
  • Budapest in August
  • Budapest in September
  • Budapest in October
  • Budapest in November
  • Budapest in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Budapest?

Get inspired for your trip to Budapest with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

  • 1-Day Budapest Itinerary
  • 2-Day Budapest Itinerary
  • 3-Day Budapest Itinerary
  • 4-Day Budapest Itinerary
  • 5-Day Budapest Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from amsterdam to budapest.

Yes! You can drive from Amsterdam to Budapest.

How far is Budapest from Amsterdam by car?

The drive from Amsterdam to Budapest is 869 miles (1,398 km).

How long does it take to drive from Amsterdam to Budapest?

Driving from Amsterdam to Budapest should take you 11 hrs 47 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Amsterdam to Budapest?

Gas from Amsterdam to Budapest would cost around $76 to $178 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Amsterdam to Budapest?

You could check out English Garden and Allianz Arena, or the always popular Deutsches Museum!

What are the best cities to visit between Amsterdam and Budapest?

People love visiting Vienna, Munich, and Salzburg, among others.

What's the weather like in Amsterdam?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

  • Weather in Amsterdam in January
  • Weather in Amsterdam in February
  • Weather in Amsterdam in March
  • Weather in Amsterdam in April
  • Weather in Amsterdam in May
  • Weather in Amsterdam in June
  • Weather in Amsterdam in July
  • Weather in Amsterdam in August
  • Weather in Amsterdam in September
  • Weather in Amsterdam in October
  • Weather in Amsterdam in November
  • Weather in Amsterdam in December

What are some other road trips from Amsterdam?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Amsterdam.

  • Amsterdam to London drive
  • Amsterdam to Paris drive
  • Amsterdam to Brussels drive
  • Amsterdam to Berlin drive
  • Amsterdam to Rome drive
  • Amsterdam to Barcelona drive
  • Amsterdam to Prague drive
  • Amsterdam to Bruges drive
  • Amsterdam to Dublin drive
  • Amsterdam to Edinburgh drive
  • Amsterdam to Madrid drive
  • Amsterdam to Vienna drive
  • Amsterdam to Florence drive
  • Amsterdam to Milan drive
  • Amsterdam to Cologne drive
  • Amsterdam to Budapest drive
  • Amsterdam to Copenhagen drive
  • Amsterdam to Antwerp drive
  • Amsterdam to Venice drive
  • Amsterdam to Hamburg drive
  • Amsterdam to Munich drive
  • Amsterdam to Lisbon drive
  • Amsterdam to York drive
  • Amsterdam to Istanbul drive
  • Amsterdam to Turin drive
  • Amsterdam to Krakow drive
  • Amsterdam to Stockholm drive
  • Amsterdam to Frankfurt drive
  • Amsterdam to Liverpool drive

road trip from amsterdam to budapest

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Alternate routes from Amsterdam to Budapest

Amsterdam to Budapest via A3

Amsterdam to Budapest via A14 and D1 passing through Prague, Czech Republic

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Amsterdam to Budapest Drive - Christmas

We are a couple and are looking to get out somewhere and utilize the Christmas week/holidays. We wanted to get to Budapest, but couldn't book/plan in advance for flights (for some personal reasons) and now the flights are super expensive. We thought of driving from Amsterdam to Budapest instead - we have 12 days to do the roundtrip. Although it sounds way too much, we thought of making a few night stops in between (like Germany or something) to see some Christmas markets or just some pretty towns. Cost wise the rental car and flights sort of match up as of now - car is slightly more expensive, but we have the freedom to move, since 12 days in Budapest might be a lot, (cost for 2 people, if our friends decide to join us then car is cheaper) considering the rental with snow tires, fuel and vignette, accommodations etc.

My question is - will the road conditions through Germany, Czech Republic, Austria (Nuremberg, Cesky Krumlov, Vienna) be icy/snowy and make it difficult to drive in general? or will the road conditions be OK? We have driven around Europe in general but never driven in icy or snowy conditions.

Updated original post Plan - roughly- Leave around 20th Dec evening or 21st Dec early morning for Dusseldorf, pickup car, onward to Nuremberg, Rothenberg for 2 days, Christmas markets and visiting the towns, onward to Cesky Krumlov and then Bratislava and then Budapest. Cesky Krumlov and Bratislava are halts to break the journey and enjoy some markets or town and get a break. End update

We have been around Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg quite a few times, so also struggling with which other places we can visit if not undertake this drive? We don't mind taking trains but flights to anywhere seems impossible in Christmas! :(

Will this be worth it and is this drive-able? or maybe someone has a better suggestion?

The really isn't an answer. If the weather is good and the roads clear then there really is no problems. But if weather is bad, ice storm comes in, then it is a dice roll. When we have traveled at that time of year with trains it has been fine except for one day with an ice storm and even the trains do not handle the icing on the overhead wires and tracks. That day took most of the day to go what should have been a two hour train ride. I think you have to be prepared for worse and hope for the best. The Christmas period is a peak travel time so it doesn't surprise me that airline tickets are expensive. Good luck.

Why drive? Why not take the train and make a couple of stops in Germany and Austria along the way. Would be less issue about weather and road conditions and may even be less expensive. Maybe even check out one-way flights from Budapest back to Amsterdam, those may be affordable and save the time of taking the train back. I'd at least check into other options before choosing to drive at this time of year.

https://www.viamichelin.com https://www.bahn.com/en/view/index.shtml

According to Via Michelin it is a 14 hour drive.... with two logical routes. The weather will be the major factor. I would take the trains myself, which would also be about 14 hours. There will be at most 8 hours of daylight so splitting up the trip into 4 hour segments that can be done during daylight (even in iffy weather) would be ideal. Stopping in major cities may be an issue with a car since most have pedestrian zones in their centers.

Note: in Germany everything will be closed after noon on Saturdays (21st, 28th) and on Sundays (22nd, 29th) and Christmas Eve and Christmas Day so you will probably want to find a base for the 24th-26th along the route, although that will be in the middle of your journey (can you get to Budapest by the 24th?) And make several stops on the way back).

On the other hand, this could be a great way to visit some of the lesser visited cities (and Christmas Markets) along your route like Bamberg, Regensburg, Linz, etc.

Good luck planning a route and finding accommodations.

Thanks for the input and voices my thoughts exactly. Trains does seem like an option and i will definitely check it out too. It is definitely better in terms of weather n not needing to worry about being stuck; but it losses the flexibility and ease, since then we will need to carry our baggage everywhere and be restricted to cities that have a good connection at that time of the year.

We don't intend to stay in major cities - visit them during the day but stay-wise B&B along the way should also be OK, with 3-4 nights in Budapest.

It may not be as easy as you imagine to figure out what to do with your car when you visit a major city in transit. Often you cannot drive into the historic core. If you arrive by train, you'll virtually always find a taxi rank right outside the station if you need one. That's not necessarily going to be the case near some random parking lot where you ditch the car.

//We have been around Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg quite a few times// A map glace suggests that just over half of the drive is in Germany, passing several big cities. I don't see why you want to spend half the trip passing places you have already seen. (I love Germany, and I'm sure it's inexhaustible, but your OP has the air of a jaded traveler who wants us to confirm your good idea.)

Austria is also attractive in holiday season. Why not go to Salzburg or Innsbruck (train or plane) and rent a car there? Wouldn't that concentrate on territory you haven't trodden yet?

I suppose you understand that Americans (the majority of this newsboard) will recognize themselves in your dedication to the open road, a clean windshield, and a full tank of gas. (That's a literary reference ... ) It's not my idea of good time, even in summer weather.

Define expensive? EasyJet is 142 euro non stop, departing on Sunday and 119 euro non stop returning on Friday Christmas week. Or split the cost and train down and fly back.

Thanks for the inputs. I know its long and there could be better options to go or better ways to get somewhere. And that's exactly why i thought of posting on this forum.

When i say we have been to Germany, i meant we have seen the Rhine region, Blackforest region, Bavaria (including Salzburg) region, Berlin too. So, if we were to not go all the way to Budapest, what else could we do? That was the context of "been to Germany". We like visiting quaint towns or nature or local activity.

The plan that i have in my head is: (also updating the main post with it ... )

Pickup a car from Dusseldorf (since the rentals there have winter tires included in the rental price amd is much cheaper than to pick it up in Amsterdam). This is around 10 in the morning. We might reach Dusseldorf a day before or the same morning is yet to be decided.

Day 1 drive to Nuremberg, a place we haven't seen before, for Christmas markets. Looks to be a 400km drive, so 6 hours

Day 2 spend half an day in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, rest of the day in Nuremberg

Day 3 drive to Cesky Krumlov. Again about 400 to 450 kms, another 6 hours.

Day 4 spend in Cesky Krumlov.

Day 5 drive to Bratislava

Day 6 Bratislava

Day 7 Drive to Budapest

Day 8 to 10 Budapest

Day 11 / 12 drive back to Dusseldorf, and train or bus back to Amsterdam.

Day5 and Day6 could have been Vienna as well, however from what i read Vienna is too big for just a day, so we will do it another trip.

I know its a lot, and if i see the trains i could take trains to Frankfurt (this i can do from Amsterdam itself), and there to Nuremberg, then onward to Vienna and then Budapest, making a day or 2 long stops at each of the cities, and 4 nights in Budapest.

From what I see flights cost me about 270 to 300 per person return, thats 550- 600 Eur for 2. A car is costing me 270 for rental with winter tires, add to that about 300 or 350 for fuel and vignette or tolls, plus cost to get to and from Dusseldorf. Yet to work out the trains - costs wise.

I am actively looking at the trains too, hopefully will find the route that way.

@Tim - you make a fair point! Agreed and thanks for the perspective!

@acraven - agreed, looking at options via train,

Because I like Contemporary Art, and also the fine, world-class (old) art museum in the UNESCO WHS estate above Duesseldorf (easy tram access), I urge you to consider whether you need any time there - not just for the big airport! I haven't seen much of Munster, but you might be interested.

Visiting a scenic old town (like CK) with snow on the ground isn't quite as easy as hitting a single Christmas Market in a snowy week. So I'd suggest that you have some more compact, or mostly indoor attractions on an alternate list, for bad weather decisions. For example, if you like museums, Dresden has a compact center (although the new town and the river are big attractions in summer.)

I wouldn't drive this is summer, never mind winter, but I see from the Google map that the medieval walled town of Iphofen isn't far off your route, I assume less of a detour than Rothenburg od Tauber. I remember that someone has recommended Iphofen on this forum as a much less touristy alternative, and the photos are gorgeous. Of course, in the winter a more touristy (lively) place like Rothenburgh od Tauber might actually be preferable.

We lived in Augsburg, Germany for four years (87-91) and did a lot of driving all over western and central Europe. Amsterdam to Budapest is a long drive. Yes, you have wisely planned to stop on the way and visit some nice places, but you will use a lot of time driving. Fuel is very expensive in Europe. Also, traffic can be heavy, especially near major cities. If it snows, you will wish you had not done the car drive.

If you are not familiar with driving on the German Autobahn, you need to do research and be familiar with the driving rules. You only use the left lane to pass. Someone approaching you at a higher speed from behind, requires you to move to the right. If there is an accident, you are responsible. Also, some cars drive over 200 KPH.

Parking can be a huge problem in Europe, also the cost.

The Romantic Road includes Rothenberg ob der Tauber, but many other great towns and cities, like Dinkelsbuhl, Donauwurth, Augsburg, Oberamergau, Garmisch, Fussen, and more. It deserves about three days.

This isnt meant to be critical at all, each to their own, but I cant imagine making that car trip in the winter. That car will cost you no less than 25 euro a day to park along the way. You will have no need for it in Budapest. It will actually slow you down if you try to use it. There are no day trips or overnight trips that I would recommend on a first visit that would benefit from a car. For the cost of parking a car for 12 nights, two of you can fly. Six hours in a car in Europe really isnt any more romantic or beautiful than 6 hours in a car in the United States. Heck, I go nuts after 3.5 hours on a train. The only compromise I would make might be to train down and fly back. That return flight can be a little as 120 euro depending on the day.

Thank you all for taking the time to reply on this. After looking at all the suggestions and considerations and our own apprehension, we finally decided to ditch the car, cut short the vacation to 6-7 days and take the train/flight on Christmas day / New years day as those seem reasonable and go ahead that way ... Appreciate the time. Happy holidays to all!

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.

How To Travel Amsterdam to Budapest

budapest

Budapest is the capital of Hungary and is located some 1,160km south-east from Amsterdam.

Let’s look at the options for travel between these 2 cities by air, train and bus.

1. Amsterdam-Budapest by Train

There are no direct rail services between Amsterdam and Budapest. There are numerous options for getting between the 2 cities by train – you can choose to travel on daytime services (with or without an overnight stop) or make use of night sleeper trains.

Options involve travel via Germany and Austria with possible connections in Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna or taking an alternate Eastern route via Berlin.

amsterdam-budapest rail map

Amsterdam-Budapest by daytime trains

Whilst it’s possible to do the entire Amsterdam-Budapest journey by the daytime we would recommend either stopping overnight along the way or taking one of the night train services. Trying to do the trip in a single day limits your train options and so prices could be higher and availability restricted.

An example of a journey by day is taking the 0808 ICE International train from Amsterdam to Köln Hbf, arriving at 1045. From Köln you could take the 1153 ICE train to Vienna (arrives 2047) and then taking the Austrian Railways OBB Railjet at 2140 which gets to Budapest at 0019.

ice train at cologne (koln)

For a more relaxed journey using daytime trains consider making an overnight stopover in Munich . On day one, travel from Amsterdam to Munich with a change in Frankfurt (Main) Hbf using ICE trains.

ice train 2nd class seats

There are a large range of hotels around Munich Hbf for your stopover including Aloft Munchen , 25 Hours The Royal Bavarian , Eden Hotel Wolff and the budget THE 4YOU Hostel/Hotel .

The Amsterdam-Munich journey time takes less than 8 hours and fares start from €37.90 (2nd class) and €59.90 (1st class).

After an overnight stay in Munich, take the modern OBB Railjet train to Budapest via Salzburg and Vienna. For example, the 0929 departure gets into Budapest Keleti station at around 1626, a journey of just under 7 hours. Fares start from €37.90 (2nd class) and €56.90 (1st class).

You can book Amsterdam-Munich and Munich-Budapest fares at the NS International site or at the Trainline site .

If coming from Budapest, do the opposite by taking the Railjet to Munich, making an overnight stop and then using the ICE trains from Munich to Amsterdam via Frankfurt.

Amsterdam-Budapest using sleeper trains

There are 3 possible sleeper options on this route though these still require connections. They are the Amsterdam-Vienna NightJet , the Munich-Budapest Euronight and Berlin-Budapest EuroNight . We would probably recommend the first option.

Amsterdam-Vienna-Budapest with NightJet

Austrian Railways ÖBB operates a NightJet nightly train service both ways between Amsterdam and Vienna.

nightjet train amsterdam

The Amsterdam-departing train runs via Utrecht, Arnhem, Düsseldorf, Cologne and Frankfurt. It continues to Nuremberg where the train splits into a Munich-bound section (via Augsburg) and a Vienna-bound section via Linz.

The train departs Amsterdam at 1900 and arrives in Vienna at 0917 the next day. From Vienna the nightly train departs at 2010 and arrives the following morning in Amsterdam at 0959. Total journey time is around 14 hours.

One-way tickets prices for NightJet range as follows: €35-€165 for a 2nd class seat; €50-€195 for a couchette bunk (4-6 people); €80-€320 for a sleeper cabin for 1, 2 or 3 people.

You can book NightJet tickets at the NS International site or at the Trainline site .

There are Eurocity and RailJet trains running regularly throughout the day between Vienna and Budapest with a journey time under 3 hours. Tickets cost from €19.90 (2nd class) and €29.90 (1st class).

There is also Czech low cost operator RegioJet which runs a 4x daily rail service between Vienna and Budapest with prices from €9.

Vienna-Budapest tickets can be booked at the TheTrainline site

Amsterdam-Munich-Budapest with EuroNight

Travel by ICE train from Amsterdam to Munich via Frankfurt during the day.

Then take the EuroNight Munich-Budapest sleeper train (known as the Kalman Imre ) which departs Munich at 2354 and arrives in Budapest at 0919. From the other way, it departs Budapest at 2040, arriving in Munich at 0550.

Single fares range from €50 (6 berth couchette) to €130 (1 bed sleeper). Book at the TheTrainline site

Amsterdam-Berlin-Budapest with EuroNight

Take a morning Intercity Berlin train between Amsterdam and Berlin (runs 5-6x daily each way, takes 6 hours 30 minutes) with fares from €38 (2nd class) and €50 (1st class). Bookable at the NS International site .

ic berlin train at amsterdam central

Then take the EuroNight Berlin-Budapest sleeper train (known as the Metropol ) which departs Berlin at 1921 and arrives at Budapest Nyugati station at 0829 – a trip of around 14 hours.

From the other way, it departs Budapest Nyugati at 1930, arriving in Berlin Hbf at 0815.

Fares range from €50 (6 berth couchette) to €130 (1 bed sleeper). Book at the TheTrainline site

You could also make an overnight stop in Berlin. The IntercityHotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof is very conveniently located across the street from Berlin Central station and is well-rated.

Then take the daytime Eurocity service operated by Hungarian Railways which leaves at 0916, travels via Prague and Bratislava and reaches Budapest at 2028 (11 hour journey). The corresponding train leaves Budapest at 0730 (direction Hamburg-Altona) and arrives in Berlin at 1843.

Singles start at €38 (2nd class) and €70 (2nd class).

To sum up, we would probably recommend the Amsterdam-Vienna NightJet sleeper and Vienna-Budapest Railjet for a really comfortable trip. Or stay the night along the way. Book at the NS International site .

2. Amsterdam-Budapest by Air

Flying is by far the quickest and most convenient option with flight times between Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) and Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) taking around 2 hours.

Dutch airline KLM (Skyteam) has 5x daily non-stop flights between Amsterdam and Budapest using either its Boeing 737 aircraft or KLM Cityhopper-branded Embraer 175/190 aircraft. Return airfares are priced from €170 excluding luggage.

KLM boeing 737 aircraft at Amsterdam Schiphol airport

3. Amsterdam-Budapest by Coach

Amsterdam-Budapest by coach is rather a long-haul with journey times ranging from 22 to 46 hours.

flixbus at amsterdam sloterdijk

Flixbus runs coach connections via Berlin, Vienna and Prague and serves Budapest Népliget and Kelenföld stops. There are longer routes offered with 2 connections but try to stick to a 1 stop route.

If booking well in advance prices can start at €50, although ranges of €50-80 are more common for shorter notice trips.

Amsterdam Resources

Looking for a convenient hotel near Amsterdam Central station? Check out the stylish Kimpton-De Witt which is a short walk from the station. For those on a budget the Ibis Amsterdam Centre is literally on top of the western edge of the station platforms.

The I Amsterdam City Card (1-5 days) offers free entry and discounts to numerous Amsterdam museums and attractions. It also includes a free public transport pass, a canal cruise and bike rental as well. You can order your I Amsterdam City Card online here

Budapest Resources

In Budapest you can book your hotel with Booking.com here . For a selection of tours and attractions in Budapest book with GetYourGuide here

This article was originally published in 2013 and has continuously been updated. Last update 16 April 2024.

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The Geographical Cure

Eight Amazing One Week Itineraries for Central Europe

Need some destination inspiration to plan a one week itinerary for Central Europe? Here’s my guide to spending 1 perfect week in Central Europe, with eight sample itineraries.

the beautiful town of Prague

One week in Central Europe might not seem like much time. But, with some advance planning and ambition, you can definitely have a bucket list adventure.

Central Europe is incredibly appealing because (generally) it’s not swamped with hordes of tourists. It’s also much cheaper than, say Paris , Barcelona , or the London .

Central Europe offers compelling must see sites and landmarks, as well as unique off the beaten path destinations.

road trip from amsterdam to budapest

But Central Europe is huge! There’s so many thing to do and see in Central Europe and so little time, at least for most of us. How to choose between the myriad options?

Central Europe includes the countries of Germany, Austria, Croatia, Slovenia, Hungary, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic. There are many different routes through this region of Europe.

To help you get started prioritizing and give you some destination inspiration, I’ve picked my top 8 itineraries for spending one week in Central Europe.

I’m a rather obsessed itinerary planner and I can personally vouch for these particular itineraries. For each itinerary, I also give you options for extending your trip, if you want to expand a 7 day itinerary into a 10 day itinerary.

  • 1 Week Croatia Itinerary
  • 1 Week Slovenia Itinerary
  • 1 Week Germany Itinerary
  • 1 Week Munich to Salzburg to Vienna Itinerary
  • 1 Week Ventian Empire Tour Itinerary
  • 1 Week Prague, Vienna, and Budapest Itinerary
  • 1 Week Bavaria Itinerary
  • 1 Week Austria Itinerary

Schonbrunn Palace outside Vienna Austria

Some of these itineraries include Central Europe’s most popular cities and sites. Others one week Central Europe itineraries give you more off the beaten path options.

You can pick a sample one week itinerary to match your own interests — whether you want a glamorous city, historical and cultural options, outdoor scenery, or beaches.

You can also combine these one week itineraries for a longer stay in Central Europe. Or adjust and tweak them to suit your needs.

cityscape of Split on Croatia's Dalmatian Coast

8 Sample 1 Week Itineraries For Central Europe

Here are eight ways to spend one week in Central Europe

1. Itinerary #1: One Week in Croatia

Croatia is a stunningly beautiful country. It has something for everyone — waterfall-laced landscapes, gorgeous beaches, historic landmarks, Roman ruins, and charming hamlets. In the sunny Dalmatian Coast, dramatic cliffs rise above islands set in azure water.

In this one week itinerary, you’ll spend 3 nights in Dubrovnik and 4 nights in Split. You could base in Zadar instead of Split, if you’d prefer a smaller and less busy town. But it’s easier to ferry to the islands from Split.

Dubrovnik is a magnetic fairytale walled city in Croatia. The Venetian-Gothic town is fairytale pretty, the perfect stage set version of what you would imagine a medieval European city looks like.

the UNESCO-listed town of Dubrovnik Croatia

Dubrovnik has glamorous palazzi, orange terra cotta rooftops, stunning views of the shimmering Adriatic Sea, and fame as a Game of Thrones filming location.

Split’s an ancient town that dates back to Roman times. It has an incredible natural setting and isn’t just a beach/party town.

There’s a whole range of drool worthy historical, cultural, and natural offerings, including one of the world’s best preserved Roman palaces. Split is the perfect jumping off point to explore the Dalmatian islands.

Zadar, Sibenik, and Trogir are beautiful medieval towns just made for wandering. All three towns are vision realized in stone.

town of Zadar

Kotor Montenegro is a stunning town, perched on the breathtaking Bay of Kotor. It’s a long day trip from Dubrovnik, but completely worth the time and effort.

Here’s how to spend one week in Croatia:

  • Day 1 : Explore Dubrovnik
  • Day 2 : Explore Dubrovnik
  • Day 3 : Day Trip to Kotor Montenegro
  • Day 4 : Drive from Dubrovnik to Split and explore Split
  • Day 5 : Day Trip to Zadar and Sibenik
  • Day 6 : Day Trip to Trogir or to Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina
  • Day 7 : Ferry to Hvar Island or Take an Island Hopping Tour

Hvar Island

Tickets & Tours :

For this itinerary, you should consider pre-booking: walking our of Dubrovnik , guided day trip to Kotor , guided day trip to Mostar , island tour from Split .

Want to read more about Croatia? Check out these posts:

  • 2 Day Itinerary for Dubrovnik
  • 10 Day Itinerary for Croatia
  • Things To Do In Split Croatia
  • Guide To Diocletian’s Palace
  • Things To Do in Kotor Montenegro
  • Hiking To St. John’s Castle in Kotor
  • Guide To Sibenik Cathedral

the UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia

More time in Croatia?

Take a day trip to Krka National Parks or spend a night in the amazing UNESCO-listed Plitvice National Park. Plitvice Lakes is a must visit destination for nature lovers.

The gorgeous park is full of vibrant colors. It boasts turquoise water, terraced lakes, stunning viewpoints, and photogenic waterfalls. You’ll be stunned at the breathtaking technicolor views at every turn.

READ : Tips for Visiting Plitvice Park

the beautiful town of Ljubljana, capital of Slovenia

2. Itinerary #2: One Week in Slovenia

Tiny overlooked Slovenia is one of Europe’s most charming and delightful off the radar destinations. It’s a gravely beautiful land of imposing green mountains, shimmering glacial blue lakes, and medieval towns.

Slovenia is every bit as beautiful as its neighbors like Croatia. But it has an independent spirit and slightly different charm all of its own. Slovenia also lacks the crowds and high prices of other European countries.

In this one week Slovenia itinerary, you’ll spend 3 nights in Lujublana, 2 nights in Lake Bled, and 2 nights in Piran.

Tartini Square in Piran Slovenia

Ljubljana is a charming small capital dotted with pretty architecture by local hero Jože Plečnik. With a cobbled Old Town clustered around a castle-topped hill, Ljubljana is often likened to Salzburg.

Lake Bled is beautiful. Photos of the iconic lake litter Facebook and Instagram, pop up in travel magazines, and linger in the imagination.

Further west on the Istrian coast, you’ll find charming towns.

Old Town of Ljubljana Slovenia

Here’s the best way to spend one week in Slovenia:

  • Day 1 : Arrive in and explore Ljublana
  • Day 2 : Explore Ljubljana
  • Day 3 : Day Trip to Predjama Cave Castle and Postojna Caves
  • Day 4 : Drive to Lake Bled, stay 2 nights
  • Day 5 : Visit Vintgar Gorge and Lake Bohinj
  • Day 6 : Travel to Piran and explore
  • Day 7 : Day trip to Portorož or Izola

Tickets & Tours : For this Central Europe itinerary, you should consider pre-booking: Ljubljana walking tour and a guided day trip to Lake Bled

Want to read more about Slovenia? Check out these related guides:

  • Most Beautiful Places in Slovenia
  • 1 Day in Ljubljana Itinerary
  • Things To Do in Piran Slovenia
  • Guide To Lake Bled
  • Guide to Predjama Castle
  • 10 Day Itinerary for Slovenia and Croatia

the Julian Alps in Slovenia

More Time In Slovenia?

Had north to the Julian Alps. The rugged stone peaks offer hiking galore. The lofty peak of Mt Triglav, at the center of a national park, may even prompt you to attempt an ascent.

You could also head to Trieste Italy. Trieste sits on the Istrian Peninsula at the confluence of Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia. You can explore the opulent Miramare Castle. Or just enjoy the historic center and Italian piazzas.

Alternatively, it’s actually possible to take a day trip to Venice from Ljubljana. It’s probably easiest to go via a tour to eliminate pesky logistics.

READ : 2 Day Itinerary for Venice

the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin Germany

3. Itinerary #3: Germany

Germany is a really large country and one week barely scrapes the surface. But if you like city breaks, you can base yourself in Munich and Berlin. You can enjoy these two amazing cities and take some great day trips.

Munich is the prosperous capital of Bavaria. It’s the perfect mix of a cosmopolitan modern city and a historic city center. There’s so much to do in the city of “art and beer.”

Munich is endlessly charming, perfectly walkable, and dotted with candy cane colored buildings. The museums are first rate.

Berlin is Germany’s historic and reunited capital. Berlin is a city of leafy boulevards, grand Neo-Classical buildings, world class museums, and glitzy shopping arcades.

the Reichstag in Berlin Germany

Art lovers could spend days museum hopping on Berlin’s Museum Island. History buffs can immerse themselves in the WWII or Cold War history.

Potsdam is a wonderful day trip from Berlin. Potsdam is strewn with the escapist whimsies of Frederick the Great. During his reign, He built a striking ensemble of grand buildings around Sanssouci Park.

Here’s how to spend one week in Germany exploring:

  • Day 1: Explore Munich
  • Day 2: Explore Munich
  • Day 3: Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle
  • Day 4: ICE Train to Berlin (4 hours). If driving, stop in Nuremberg en route
  • Day 5: Explore Berlin
  • Day 6: Explore Berlin
  • Day 7: Day trip to Potsdam

view from St. Peter's Church in Munich Germany

Tickets & Tours : For this itinerary, you may want to pre-book the following: guided tour to Dachau , Neuschwanstein Castle day tour , Berlin WWII walking tour , day tour to Potsdam

Want to read more about Germany? check out these posts:

  • 35 Landmarks in Germany
  • Prettiest Towns in Germany
  • Tips for Visiting Germany
  • 1 Day in Munich Itinerary
  • 4 Days in Munich Itinerary
  • 10 Day Bavaria Itinerary
  • Things To Do in Nuremberg
  • Nazi and WWII Sites in Nuremberg

Marienplatz, the central square in Munich

4. Itinerary #4: Munich to Salzburg to Vienna

This is another popular one week road trip route in Germany and Austria. You can experience two cities full of culture — Munich and Vienna.

You’ll be enchanted by enchanting Salzburg. And you can take a nature break in Austria’s stunning UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley.

I’ve discussed Munich, but Vienna is an elegant city well worth your time. Vienna is scattered with Hapsburg palaces — Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace , and the Belvedere Palace . The museums are out of this world. If you’re a fan of the golden art works of Gustav Klimt, you’ll be in heaven.

The town of Salzburg is a dream worth dreaming, set on the fast flowing Salzach River. It’s studded with elegant domes and spires and crowned with a doughty clifftop fortress. It’s fairytale swoonful, and one of my favorite small cities in Europe.

cityscape of Salzburg Austria

Take in the regal Mirabell Palace, the opulent Residenz, and Salzburg Cathedral. Make the steep (but short) hike up to the well-preserved 900 year fortress, Festung Hohensalzburg. Or take a riverside stroll along Elisabethkai.

With this Germany-Austria itinerary, you’ll spend 2 nights in Munich, 2 nights in Salzburg, and 3 nights in Vienna.

  • Day 2: Explore Munich or Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle
  • Day 3: Travel to Salzburg and stop at Herrenschiemsee Palace en route
  • Day 4: Explore Salzburg
  • Day 5: Travel to Vienna and Explore Vienna
  • Day 6: Explore Vienna
  • Day 7: Day Trip to Wachau Valley

view from St. Stephens' Cathedral in Vienna

Tickets & Tours : For this itinerary, you may want to pre-book the following: Neuschwanstein Castle day tour , Salzburg walking tour , Vienna highlights walking tour , guided day trip to Wachau Valley .

Want to read more about Germany and Austria? Check out these posts:

  • 1 Day in Munich
  • 3 Days in Vienna Itinerary
  • Guide To the Beethoven Trail in Vienna
  • Guide To the Best Museums in Vienna
  • Guide To Austria’s Wachau Valley
  • Guide To Castles in Bavaria

the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley

More time in Vienna? Day Trip To Bratislava Slovakia

Bratislava is a popular and easy day trip from Vienna, just an hour away. Bratislava is the tiny capital of Slovakia. It’s a little over an hour from Vienna.

Vintage-y Bratislava is filled with pastel colored houses, quirky sculptures, and the world’s most adorable pastry shop, Konditorei Kormut.

Even better, Bratislava is crowned with a historic castle, which is really the iconic spot in the town. Perched on a small hill and about a 15 minute hike, the castle is the best viewpoint of the old town.

Outside, it’s an elegant vision, with Gothic and Renaissance elements. Inside, there’s a museum of history.

the Grand Canal in Venice

5. Itinerary #5: Ventian Empire Tour: Venice to Rovinj to Piran

Do you like a little water with your one week in Central Europe itinerary? Take a Venetian Empire tour. With this itinerary, you’ll visit three countries — Italy, Croatia, and Slovenia — with Venetian themed towns.

Venice is the most unique city in the world. It’s an almost physical and mystical experience when you see Venice for the first time. The glimmering watery streets are right is front of you. Venice defies logic; it’s a city that almost shouldn’t exist.

Venice has a fascinating history. The Republic of Venice became a maritime power. Venice built a little empire on the Adriatic coast in places like Croatia and Slovenia. This produced some “little Venice replicas” like Rovinj and Pirann.

READ : History of Venice in a Nutshell

Rovinj Croatia

Here’s how you can spend a Venetian-themed one week in Central Europe:

  • Day 1 : Explore Venice
  • Day 2 : Explore Venice
  • Day 3 : Day trip to the islands Murano and Burano
  • Day 4 : Ferry to Rovinj
  • Day 5 : Explore Rovinj
  • Day 6 : Drive to Piran, stop in Koper en route
  • Day 7 : Explore Piran

This itinerary has you spending 3 nights in Venice, 2 nights in Rovinj, and 2 nights in Piran.

From Venice, you take the ferry and zip across to Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula, where you can indulge in white and black truffles as you sunbathe.

Spend a couple of nights in the coastal town of Rovinj. Rovinj is charming city that mixes Italian and Croatian influences. Then move on to the towns of Koper and Piran in Slovenia, which are utterly charming Venetian-inspired towns.

Piran Slovenia

Tickets & Tours : For this itinerary, you may want to pre-book the following: Venice walking tour , Venice gondola ride , ticket for St. Mark’s Basilica .

Want to read more about this area? Check out these related blog posts:

  • 1 Day itinerary for Venice
  • 2 Day Itinerary for Venice
  • Attractions on the Grand Canal in Venice
  • Guide To Venice’s Accademia Gallery
  • 1 Week Venice To Milan Itinerary
  • Guide To Piran Slovenia

Head to the small charming capitol of Ljubljana for a couple days. Ljubljana is a lovely small capital city.

As I mentioned above, the small city is filled with playful architecture and has a robust cafe culture. There are really no marquis must see sites in Ljubljana. It’s more about the laid back European experience.

the iconic Charles Bridge in Prague

6. Itinerary #6: One Week in Prague, Vienna, and Budapest

This Central Europe itinerary takes you to some of the region’s greatest hits. The cities of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest all boast rich histories, stunning architecture, showstopper medieval town squares, and culinary delights.

Prague is one of the world’s most beautiful cities. It’s synonymous with over-the-top romance and evocative Old World charm. Having escaped the bombings of the big wars, it’s a historic and well-preserved wonder.

Vienna is such a fancy city, a beautiful open air museum really. It’s awash in imperial palaces, grand Baroque architecture, and seriously swoonful museums. The UNESCO-listed buildings create the city’s distinctive look.

the parliament building in Budapest

Beautiful Budapest has a romantic and exotic reputation. It’s a key stop on the vaunted Danube River, a hot European city break, and dubbed the “Paris of the East” and the “Pearl of the Danube.”

Budapest is picturesquely divided in two by the Danube, with Buda on the west and Pest on the east.

It has a sense of expansive grandeur, and opulent interiors from the bygone Austro-Hungarian Empire era. Both sides of the city have different personalities and offer different cultural experiences.

the pretty town of Cesky Krumlov

Here’s how to spend one week visiting these beautiful cities in Central Europe:

  • Day 1 : Explore Prague
  • Day 2 : Explore Prague
  • Day 3 : Drive (or train) to Vienna, stop at Cesky Krumlov en route
  • Day 4 : Explore Vienna
  • Day 5 : Explore Vienna
  • Day 6 : Drive (or train) to and explore Budapest
  • Day 7 : Explore Budapest

In this itinerary, you’ll base in Prague (2 nights), Vienna (3 nights), and Budapest (2 nights).

Tickets & Tours : For this 7 day Central Europe itinerary, you should consider booking: Vienna highlights walking tour , Prague walking tour , guided day trip to Cesky Krumlov , Budapest Danube River cruise .

Fisherman's Bastion on the Buda side of Budapest

More Time In Budapest?

Explore more of Hungary. There are wonderful day trip options from Budapest, including Eger, Royal Palace of Gödöllő, Esztergom, and Gyor.

Want to know more about these amazing cities? Check out these posts:

  • 1 Day Itinerary for Budapest
  • 3 Day Itinerary for Budapest
  • Best Things About Budapest
  • 3 Day Itinerary for Vienna
  • Best Museums in Vienna
  • Best Things To Do in Vienna in Winter

classic view of the medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber

7. Itinerary #7: One Week In Bavaria Germany

The idyllic region of Bavaria is located in southern Germany. To me, the word “Bavaria” conjures dreamy visions of half-timbered houses clad in flowers and majestic castles piercing blue skies.

This one week Bavaria itinerary has you spending 3 nights in Munich and 4 nights in Nuremberg (a fantastic base for exploring Bavaria).

I’ve covered Munich above. Nuremberg is a magical stunner of a city, with munchable gingerbread and tasty bratwurst.

Nuremberg is multi-faceted, with a tumultuous past. As a former imperial city and medieval stronghold, it’s got layers of history, some of it a dark and brooding Nazi-infused variety. That duality is part of Nuremberg’s allure.

cityscape of Nuremberg

Bavaria is also scattered with adorable small towns. For this itinerary, I recommend visiting Rothenburg ob der Tauber (perhaps Germany’s prettiest city), Bamburg, and /or Regensburg.

All will deliver a heady dash of quaint fairytale charm with half timbered home and flower boxes.

Here’s how to spend one week in Bavaria Germany:

  • Day 1 : Arrive and explore Munich
  • Day 2 : Explore Munich
  • Day 3 : Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle and/or Linderhof Palace
  • Day 4 : Drive to Nuremberg, stopping in Augsburg or Dinklesbuhl (or both) en route
  • Day 5 : Explore Nuremberg
  • Day 6 : Day Trip to Rothenberg ob der Tauber
  • Day 7 : Day Trip to Bamberg or Regensburg

road trip from amsterdam to budapest

Want to read more about Bavaria? Check out these posts:

  • 10 Day Itinerary for Bavaria
  • Guide To Bavaria’s Romantic Road
  • Guide To the Best Castles in Bavaria
  • 1 Day Itinerary for Munich
  • 4 Day Itinerary for Munich
  • Best Things To Do in Nuremberg
  • Best Things To Do in Bamberg
  • Best Things To Do in Regensburg

Tickets & Tours : For this one week in Central Europe itinerary, you may want to book: Neuschwanstein Castle day tour , Nuremberg WWII tour , Munich walking tour .

City Hall in Vienna. Austria

8. Itinerary #8: One Week in Austria

Tiny landlocked Austria is a beautiful country. It has a lot to offer for lovers of nature, history, and beautiful cities.

Austria boasts alpine scenery, world class museums, cobbled quaintness, and Wiener schnitzel. Unlike Germany, its industrious neighbor to the northwest, Austria is content to bask in its opulent past as the former home of the Hapsburg dynasty.

This one week Austria itinerary has you spending 4 days in Vienna, 1 day in Hallstatt, and 2 days in Salzburg.

  • Day 1 : Explore Vienna
  • Day 2 : Explore Vienna
  • Day 3 : Explore Vienna, half day trip to Schonnbrunn Palace
  • Day 4 : Day Trip to Bratislava or the Wachau Valley
  • Day 5 : Drive to Hallstatt, overnight in Hallstatt
  • Day 6 : Drive to Salzburg, explore and overnight there
  • Day 7 : Another day in Salzburg or day trip to Mondsee and Passau

 Rainbow over Salzburg castle

Tickets & Tours : For this itinerary, you might consider booking: Vienna highlights walking tour , skip the line ticket for Schoenbrunn , Salzburg walking tour , skip the line ticket to the Belvedere Palace .

Want to know more about Austria? Check out these posts:

  • Guide To the Klimt Trail in Vienna
  • Guide To the Wachau Valley
  • Guide To Melk Abbey
  • Guide To Attractions on the Danube River

More Time After Salzburg?

The best thing to do in head into Germany and enjoy some of Bavaria. You could move to Munich and base there for a few days.

Or, if you don’t want a big city, you could stay in Salzburg and day trip to other cute towns like Passau, Landshut, Berchtesgaden, and Konigsee.

the picturesque town of Durnstein in Austria Wachau Valley

I hope you’ve enjoyed these one week itineraries for Central Europe. You may enjoy these other Europe itineraries and resources:

  • Six 1 Week Itineraries for Spain
  • Twelve 1 Week Itineraries for Italy
  • Five 1 Week Itineraries for Sicily
  • 10 Day Itinerary for Italy
  • 10 Day Itinerary for Tuscany
  • 10 Day Itinerary for Southern Spain
  • 1 0 Day Itinerary for Basque Spain
  • 25 Secret Towns in France
  • 30 Most Beautiful Cities in Italy
  • 30+ Secret Towns in Spain
  • 25+ S ecret Hidden Gem in Europe

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Last Updated on April 1, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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Top 10 Highlights of our Amsterdam to Budapest Cruise by JetSettingFools.com

Top 10 Highlights of Our Amsterdam to Budapest Cruise

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There are multiple ways to travel from Amsterdam to Budapest – planes, trains, buses and cars can be used to quickly get from Point A to Point B. That said, an Amsterdam to Budapest cruise isn’t about getting from one place to another – it’s about the journey . Europe river cruises between the two cities feature scenic landscapes, historic riverside towns, hill-topping castles and medieval churches.

We abandoned our usual independent travel style and embarked on a Viking Grand European Tour to make the journey . Traveling by boat on an Amsterdam to Budapest Cruise allowed us to sit back, relax and savor the sights (and – yes! – the food, too).

Amsterdam To Budapest Cruise

Our scenic Amsterdam to Budapest cruise made stops in 14 cities, traversed five countries, sailed on three rivers and one canal. We could ramble on endlessly about our Grand European River Cruise, but we have whittled our incredible experience aboard an Amsterdam to Budapest cruise into a list of top 10 highlights.   

Viking Grand European Tour

Sailing into Budapest aboard Viking Magni Longship

One of the best things about Viking Amsterdam to Budapest river cruises is the ease of access to some of the most well preserved medieval cities in Europe. Spending 15 days on a Rhine Main Danube river cruise, travelers see some of the most magnificent European sights. 

Viking Grand European Tour Itinerary

Wondering where 15 Day Viking European Tours take passengers on the route between Amsterdam and Budapest? Here is a rundown on the facts about our Viking Magni River Trip.

  • Countries : The Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia (no stops), Hungary
  • Cities : Amsterdam, Kinderdijk, Cologne, Koblenz, Miltenberg, Wurzburg, Bamberg, Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau, Melk, Krems, Vienna, Budapest
  • Rivers : Rhine, Main, Danube Rivers
  • Canal : Main-Danube Canal

Viking Amsterdam to Budapest River Cruise Map .

Note : Grand river cruises in reverse – from Budapest to Amsterdam – make most of the same stops, although some cities may vary due to port congestion or river levels.

Highlights of our Amsterdam to Budapest Cruise

Golf, Herb Garden and Shuffle Board on Sundeck of Viking Magni Longship

Our Top 10 experiences on our 15-day European cruise are listed in chronological order.

#1 Kinderdijk Windmills – The Netherlands

One of 19 Kinderdijk Windmills, The Netherlands

Windmills are an iconic symbol of the Netherlands – and at Kinderdijk (near Rotterdam) there are 19 preserved windmills that date to the mid-1700s. The windmills at Kinderdijk, which are still functioning, were designated a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1997. The trip to Kinderdijk was the first of several shore excursions on our Grand Viking European tour.

Looking out a window inside a Kinderdijk Windmill, The Netherlands

On our guided walking tour, we learned how the bonnet mills (windmills where only the top swivels) pump water from the lower canals to higher ground. We were also able to explore the interior of the windmill to see the inner-workings and how the small, odd-shaped space once housed a family.

Kris at Kinderdijk Windmills, The Netherlands

*Visiting the Kinderkijk Windmills was an included excursion on our Viking River Cruise Amsterdam to Budapest.

#2 Nijmegen – Netherlands

The New Bridge in Nijmegen, Netherlands

Nijmegen wasn’t a stop on our Viking Cruises Grand European Tour, but we made certain to be on the top deck of the Viking Magni for personal reasons when we sailed through the city…and it wasn’t just because it’s a stunning sight!

In 2015, we spent nearly 3 months in Nijmegen as housesitters for the most wonderful family. We stayed in their home over the Christmas period with their sweet dog, quickly connecting with the owners and the community.

Nijmegen Netherlands River View

When we told our friends that we would be sailing through Nijmegen on our Europe tour from Amsterdam, they told us to look for them on the riverside. We consulted the always-helpful crew regarding the exact time we would be passing through Nijmegen and they kept us informed throughout the day. More on our brilliant Viking crew later!

Our friends waving to our ship from the riverside in Nijmegen, Netherlands

As we passed through Nijmegen, we spotted our friends under the Waalbrug Bridge. We stood on the side of the ship shouting “Halllllooooo” to our friends and they shouted back to us. It was incredible (but a bit confusing to some of our fellow passengers!), to see their smiling faces and waving arms as they wished us well on our journey.

#3 Cologne Beer Tour – Germany

Cologne Skyline and Cathedral, Germany

Kolsch is the beer of Cologne, Germany…and when in Cologne, one must drink Kolsch (and don’t even mention Altbier or Dusseldorf )!

We joined an entertaining Cologne pub crawl, which included a hearty pre-drinking classic German meal of pork, kraut and potato salad. With the proper base, we bar hopped to six brew houses to sample fresh Kolsch beer straight from the barrel.

Kobe waiter carrying tray of Kolsch beer in Cologne, Germany

The production of Kolsch beer is limited to breweries located within 50km of Cologne, which must meet strict requirements to carry the name ‘Kolsch’. In the taverns, waiters – called kobes – carry a two-tiered tray of beer, replacing any empty glasses with full ones. Only when we placed a coaster over our beer did they stop leaving more. So…how many did we have? We lost count, prost!

Stange glasses and tray, Kolsch Beer in Cologne, Germany brew house

*The Cologne Beer Tour was an optional excursion (additional fee charged per person) organized by our Viking Cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest.

#4 Rhine River Castles – Germany

Marksburg Castle on Romantic Rhine River in Germany

When we sailed into the Middle Rhine – or Romantic Rhine, as it is often called – it was like slipping into a fairytale of castles and vineyards (all the best fairytales include vineyards, if you ask us!).

Rheinstein Castle on Romantic Rhine River in Germany

The Rhine River castle cruise is between the cities of Koblenz and Bingen, where the Rhine River meanders through a valley of vine-covered hills. Their grapes were already hand-harvested and leaves turning yellow during our mid-autumn tour. Mighty castles sat loftily on the hilltops, strategically built for defense, power and regulation over waterway trade.

Reichenstein Castle on Romantic Rhine River in Germany

Our day began with a visit to the well-preserved Marksburg Castle and our afternoon was spent lounging on the top deck of the boat as we cruised down the Rhine River, passing by more than 20 hillside and island castles – some more elaborate than others, some pristine, some crumbling…and a few still occupied by the current owners.

Hillside vineyard in autumn on Romantic Rhine River in Germany

Find a list of castles on the Rhine cruise here .

*The Marksburg Castle tour was an included excursion on our Viking Grand European River Cruise.

#5 Wurzburg – Germany

Old Stone Bridge with Saint sculptures in Wurzburg, Germany

Not too big, not too small, not too touristy, but with plenty of sights, Wurzburg ranks as the favorite city we visited on our scenic cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest – and we were very pleased to have had a full day to explore!

Marienberg Fortress in Wurzburg, Germany

After touring the majestic palace – the Wurzburger Residenz, which is stark on the outside but with an incredibly artistic Baroque interior – we spent the afternoon discovering the rest of the city on our own.

Medieval gate at Marienberg Fortress in Wurzburg, Germany

We hiked through the vineyards to the impressive Marienberg Fortress, took in city views of the skyline (which is punctuated by the steeples of 42 churches) and joined the late afternoon crowds gathering on the Old Stone Bridge for a glass of Franconian wine.

View of Marienberg Fortress from Veranda Stateroom on Viking Cruise

When it was time for our Viking Longship to cast off, we took in the last view of the fortress from our stateroom balcony and were bid farewell by two curious (hungry?) swans. Does it get more picture-perfect than that?!

*Touring the Bishops’ Residenz was an included excursion on our Viking Grand European Cruise.

#6 Passau – Germany

St. Stephen's Cathedral across Inn River in Passau, Germany

At the confluence of three rivers – the Inn, the Danube and the Ilz Rivers – is the picturesque town of Passau, Germany. The center of the city is squeezed onto a narrow peninsula – on which the highest point is St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Hill-top Veste Oberhaus Fortress, Passau, Germany

The dominating white church is topped with (now green) copper onion domes that can be seen from afar. The interior is extravagantly decorated (in the Baroque style, of course), yet it is the organ that steals the show. With 17,974 pipes, 233 stops and four carillons, it is the fifth largest organ in the world.

Baroque interior and organ at St. Stephen's Cathedral in Passau, Germany

After a tour of the town and church, we set off on our own to stretch our legs and seek out vantage points around Passau. On both sides of the peninsula – across the rivers Danube to the north and Inn to the south – hills rise above the historic old town.

We crossed the Danube and hiked the trail leading to the prominent 13th century fortress, Veste Oberhaus, which overlooks the meeting point of the three rivers and the pretty city below. Across the Inn River, we wound our way through the neighborhood to the staircase leading to the humble pilgrimage church, Paulinerkloster Mariahilf.

Veste Oberhaus Castle, Passau, Germany

Still keen to see more of the town, we crossed the Innsteg pedestrian bridge and strolled the riverside promenade around the tip of the peninsula back to our awaiting Viking longship.

*Passau city tour – with church interior – was an included excursion on our Grand European Viking Cruise.

#7 Melk Abbey – Austria

Melk Abbey sits above the town of Melk, Austria

The grandiose and commanding Melk Abbey sits on a rocky cliff above the Danube River and the town of Melk. Since the 11th century, the palace-turned-abbey has been continuously run by Benedictine Monks.

Baroque Garden Pavilion at Melk Abbey in Austria

The Imperial Rooms – just a few of the nearly 500 rooms in the abbey – have been transformed into a modern museum filled with artifacts and state-of-the-art displays. Our tour of Melk Abbey also allowed us to step inside the decorative Marble Hall, the incredible library with 80,000 leather-bound books lining the shelves and the over-the-top Baroque church.

Courtyard in Melk Abbey in Austria

*The Melk Abbey Tour was an included excursion on our Viking River Grand European Tour.

#8 Wachau Valley – Austria

Blue Abbey and Burguine Durnstein castle in Wachau Valley, Austria

The Wachau Valley – from Melk to Krems – bears similar landscapes to the Romantic Rhine. We sailed through the valley under a blanket of gray clouds that seemed to match some of the dilapidated castles and sleepy towns nestled along the riverside.

Quaint church and hillside vineyards in Wachau Valley, Austria

The mystical Wachau passage, splashed with hues of orange and yellow from autumn leaves, was almost surreal. We were charmed by the fanciful scenes: soaring steeples rising from a cluster of dwellings and backdropped by golden vineyards.

#9 Taste of Austria Dinner

Father/Son Duo play Accordion and Guitar at Taste of Austria Dinner on Viking Amsterdam to Budapest Cruise

When the Viking Magni crew entered the lounge for our daily pre-dinner chat wearing lederhosen and dirndl, we knew it was going to be a festive evening. Then the entertainment arrived – a man with an accordion and his son with a guitar. And, then, the feast began.

Grilled Sausages on buffet at Taste of Austria dinner on Viking Amsterdam to Budapest Cruise

The meals on our Viking Grand European cruise, especially the dinners, were an extravagant affair (more on the food in a minute), but none compared to the boisterous celebration at the Taste of Austria Dinner.

The elegant dining room was transformed into an Austrian tavern. Tables covered in red-checkered tablecloths were laden with soft pretzels, local meats and cheeses.

Festive Taste of Austria dinner on Viking Amsterdam to Budapest cruise

Rather than being served, we rounded the buffet counter that was piled high with grilled and slow-cooked meat: Kasekrainer – an Austrian sausage stuffed with cheese, Wiener Schnitzel and roasted pork knuckle were among our top choices. Spaetzle – Austrian’s decadent version of mac and cheese – was another savory item on the buffet that we couldn’t resist trying.

Pouring beer for Taste of Austria Dinner on Viking Amsterdam to Budapest Cruise

Instead of wine, the wait staff delivered glasses of beer to the tables, just like the kobe in Cologne. And, we ended the meal Austrian-style: with a shot of Schnapps.

#10 Sailing into Budapest – Hungary

Spires and dome of Budapest Parliament Building in Hungary

On our second to last night on our Viking Longship – during our cruise from Vienna to Budapest – I woke before sunrise. I stepped out onto the balcony to find the boat shrouded in thick, swirling fog. As first light shone on the horizon, the fog hovered just above the water and burrowed in villages.

A Viking Cruise longship in Budapest, Hungary

Shortly after sunrise, the air still thick with moisture, we approached Budapest . Even though it wasn’t clear, I climbed to the top deck for 360-degree views of the city. As we sailed under the Margaret Bridge into the heart of Budapest, the remaining mist was quickly evaporating; it was as if the city was being unveiled just for our arrival!

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BONUS: Life On Board Viking River Cruises

Tables at bow of Viking Magni longship on Amsterdam to Budapest Cruise

As first-time river cruisers and incredibly independent travelers, one of our biggest curiosities before our Viking Cruise was what life on board would be like. As it turns out, spending time aboard was a highlight of our Amsterdam to Budapest cruise.

It wasn’t one specific element that made time on-board so stellar, but the experience in its entirety – from the room to the food to fellow passengers to the absolutely outstanding crew.

Rooms on Viking River Cruises in Europe

Welcome fruit and wine in Veranda Stateroom, Viking Magni Longship, Amsterdam to Budapest cruise

Our Veranda Stateroom, while not spacious, was well-designed to best utilize the space we had – as was the ship itself. We sailed on the Viking Magni longship, a ship built with specifications intended to sail European rivers. The ship can carry up to 190 passengers (plus 50 crew members), but with ample community and outdoor space – the entire upper deck and bow of the ship – it never felt crowded on board, not even during meals.

Food on Viking Cruises in Europe

Dinner of Herb Provencale Rack of Lamb on Viking Amsterdam to Budapest Cruise

And speaking of meals on the Viking river cruises in Europe, dining on the ship was spectacular. My favorite three-course dinner: truffle scented chicken cassoulet, herb Provençale rack of lamb and a chocolate brownie drizzled with white chocolate sauce accompanied by creamy pistachio ice cream. From presentation to portion-size to palate, we were impressed.

Plates of smoked salmon for breakfast on Viking Amsterdam to Budapest cruise

In addition to the decadent chef-prepared meals (available for breakfast, lunch and dinner!) – we had plenty of dining choices, which is one of the things we liked best about our Viking Amsterdam to Budapest cruise.  

Beef Brisket main meal on Viking Amsterdam to Budapest cruise

We could choose where to eat our meals: the dining room, lounge or terrace. Furthermore, we had a choice of which table and with whom we wanted to dine, allowing us the opportunity to mix and mingle with fellow passengers.

Pistachio ice cream with brownies dessert on Viking Amsterdam to Budapest Cruise

It was the passengers – and especially the crew – that truly made our experience truly memorable. We were amazed at how complete strangers all boarded a ship and by the end of the 15-day river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest, good friends disembarked.

For more information about the Grand European Tour from Amsterdam to Budapest, visit Viking River Cruises Website . 

Want more European Travel Planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page ! Get all our Ultimate Packing List  on our Packing Page as well!!

Pro Tip:  Get (and stay) organized for your vacation to Europe using our Trip Planning Printables !

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Our Viking River Cruises Grand European Tour was sponsored; but be assured, our opinions are genuine.

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Travel to Europe your way

Pre arranged tours for individual travellers

11-Day Amsterdam to Budapest Rail Tour (11R02)

Budapest Rail Tour . From Amsterdam to Cologne, Wurzburg, Nuremberg, Munich, Salzburg, and Vienna to Budapest, this Rail tour covers many of the nicest sights in Central Europe. The tour includes an all-day escorted coach tour from Munich to Oberammergau, Linderhof Palace and Neuschwanstein Castle and the legendary Sound of Music tour in Salzburg. It already includes admission to Neuschwanstein Castle (Hohenschwangau), Linderhof Palace & Park (Ettal), Residence Museum & Treasury, Cuvilliés-Theatre, Hall of Fame and Statue of Bavaria, Nymphenburg Palace and Park, Marstallmuseum, Museum of Nymphenburg Porcelain (all Munich and admission to Wurzburg Residence and Marienberg Fortress (in Wurzburg) as well as admission to the Imperial Castle in Nuremberg.

Budapest Rail tour

Castle area Budapest © Ungarn Tourismus

Pre- and post-tour accommodation in Amsterdam and Budapest can be added. The tour can also be booked from Budapest to Amsterdam.  This beautiful vacation package includes second class Rail all the way as well as excellent rated hotels (see the tableau this is already included in the price of your tour ).  It can be upgraded to first class rail for an extra of US $ 289  per person. This includes seat reservations for all long distance rails. Here you also find everything else that is included:  transfers, rail tickets, tours and admissions.

Price per Person

Would you like to submit your personal information so we can check availability for your specific travel dates for this beautiful tour? On our BOOKING INQUIRY page you find a form which you may use to forward your personal information:

View 11 Day Amsterdam to Budapest Rail Tour (11R02) in a larger map

Day 1 Cologne

Your tour starts from Amsterdam Central Station. We have not included any nights in Amsterdam into this tour package so far since many of our clients come from a cruise ship and have already spend some time in Amsterdam. However, depending on your time frame we can certainly add one or more nights in Amsterdam prior to the tour as well as guided city tours. If this is the case please let us know and we will send an updated itinerary to you.

In about 2 hours and 40 minutes, the High-speed rail (ICE) will take you from Amsterdam to Cologne Central Station. Your hotel is located in walking distance from the station. Cologne, one of the oldest cities in Germany . Travel time to Cologne is about two hours. The Romans founded a village located on the River Rhine and called it “Colonia”. Just outside Cologne Central Station, you find Cologne´s most famous landmark, the Kolner Dom ( Cologne Cathedral ) which is the largest Gothic church in northern Europe. Each of both towers has a height of more than 500 ft., the Cologne Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the landmark still is the seat of the Archbishop of Cologne.

Budapest Rail tour

Cologne Cathedral ©Thomas H. Giesick and Wurzburg Residence ©Romantische Straße Touristik Arbeitsgemeinschaft GbR

In the Cathedral, you find the High Altar made out of black marble (which was installed in 1322) as well as the Shrine of the Three Kings (created in the 12th century). Admission to the Cathedral is free. For a fee, it is possible to climb up the tower and to visit the treasury. If you are interested in perfume a visit of the Fragrance Museum in Cologne, the birthplace of the Eau des Cologne , is a must do. The Fragrance Museum is located less than 10 walking minutes from Cologne Cathedral and a visit allows you to discover three centuries of fragrance history. Another Museum, the NS-Documentation Center of the City of Cologne, may be interesting to visit for those of you interested in the history of the “Third Reich”. It is located in the former headquarters of the Cologne Gestapo (secret police) which is also only about 10 walking minutes from Cologne Central Station (if you are interested in Nazi Germany/WWII-history you may also want to take a look at our History Rail Tour  “ Fascination and Terror –Rise and Fall of the Third Reich ” ). The Old Town of Cologne is located just a little south of Cologne Central Station. Shopping is great along the “Hohe Strasse”, a pedestrian zone, and in the streets going east toward the Rhine River you will find many places to eat and enjoy a  Koelsch , a local specialty beer.

We recommend going on a Panorama Cruise on the Rhine River where you will see many sights of Cologne.

Day 2 Wurzburg

From Cologne, you take a High-Speed train to Wurzburg. Your hotel is located in walking distance from Wurzburg Central Station.  The city is idyllically located amidst vineyards, with the medieval fortress Marienberg towering above. Wurzburg is old bishop´s see and lively town, proudly presenting monuments of different eras. Culture, art, history, and hospitality are ever-present in this remarkable city! Visit the Old Town in Wurzburg as well as the Residence admission included), where you can join a free English-speaking tour at 3 pm each day. From mid-March to October, you may also want to visit Fortress Marienberg which is towering above the scenic Old Town of the “Historic Highlights of Germany” city of Wurzburg (closed on Mondays, admission included).

Day 3 Nuremberg

The High-Speed train (ICE) will take you from Wurzburg to Nuremberg. Your hotel is located in walking distance from Nuremberg Central Station (which is located just outside the Old City Wall surrounding Nuremberg Old Town and the Imperial Castle). Nuremberg’s history reaches back to the year 1050, its name “nourenberc” translates into “rocky hill”. Nuremberg’s famous landmark, the “Kaiserburg” ( Imperial Castle ), towers above the Old town, which is protected by the five kilometers long city wall, many towers and gates can still be visited. The medieval Castle is one of the most important imperial palaces dating from the middle ages from the 11th century (admission included). In the Third Reich Adolf Hitlers´Nazi Party had chosen Nuremberg for their Nazi Rallies and if you are interested in that part of history you may want to visit the Documenation Center Nazi Rally Grounds which are located just south of the Old Town.

Budapest Rail tour

Sebaldus Church, Imperial Castle and Heilig-Geist Spital Nuremberg ©Thomas H. Giesick

When exploring the beauty of Nuremberg’s medieval Old Town you may want to start right at the Koenigstor (“Kingsgate”) which is the gate right across from Nuremberg Central Station. From where the timber-framed buildings, the Gothic Church of St.Lawrence and the Church of St.Sebaldus can be easily reached by foot. Right next to the Koenigstor is the Handwerkerhof (craft center), here you will feel like you are back in the medieval times, there are craft workshops like they used to have a long time ago as well as a gingerbread bakery. Make sure to enjoy a Nuremberg Bratwurst along with a beer or a glass of “Frankenwein” (franconian wine).

Budapest Rail tour

Neuschwanstein Castle © Romantische Strasse Arbeitsgemeinschaft Gbr, Linderhof Palace © Softeis via Wikimedia Commons and Munich Town Hall © Thomas H. Giesick

DAY 4 Munich

Munich, the Capital of Bavaria, is your next destination. Munich Central Station is more than 100 miles from Nuremberg Central Station but by high-speed ICE rail it only takes about an hour to get there. Munich is famous throughout the world for the Oktoberfest but also for its location, close to scenic lakes and to the Alp Mountains. Your hotel is located in walking distance to Munich Central Station.

Where to begin when one wants to name places to see and things to do in this extraordinary city … which like few others combines modern life with lively history? There is Munich’s old town where 850 years of history are showing off, there is the Marienplatz (Marien Square) where three times each day thousands of people are spellbound when the world famous Glockenspiel (carillon) starts its beautiful song. Visit and marvel at the Frauenkirche, the town’s landmark; do not miss the Hofbrauhaus and find out why the Munchner (inhabitants of Munich) don’t want to miss out on their “Brotzeit” (a meal or snack consisting of bread, cold cuts, cheese and so on, usually enjoyed between breakfast and lunch). Visit the Residence , Nymphenburg Palace and Park, Hall of Fame and all the other sights in Munich which are included in your comprehensive sightseeing package. Many guests ask us about the option to visit Dachau Memorial Site which is located just outside of Munich. This can also be arranged for that day if you contact is in advance and let us know.

DAY 5 Escorted Coach tour to Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace

Your all-day, escorted coach tour will first take you to Oberammergau for a photo stop. The coach will then take you to Linderhof Palace , the “Royal Villa” of Ludwig II. Visit this beautifully furnished castle and the park. Admission to Linderhof Palace and Neuschwanstein Castle is included in the price of the tour. The picture of Neuschwanstein is probably present in everybody’s mind but certainly for those traveling along the Romantic Road. Be prepared that reality will surpass all pictures and imaginations. Neuschwanstein seems to be taken out of a fairytale! Seeing the castle from the outside is unforgettable, a tour of the interior, which was originally built for one famous inhabitant, will make the picture perfect! But make sure to take some time to explore the castle grounds. The view of Neuschwanstein from the bridge behind the Castle is like no other! PLEASE NOTE: if you have been on the escorted coach tour to the Royal Castles before it is also possible to change this to a different tour from Munich.

Day 6 Salzburg

In about 1 hours and 50 minutes, the high-speed “ Rail Jet ” (RJ) will take you from Munich to Salzburg. Salzburg, beautiful town close to the Alps, the birthplace of Mozart is also the site of the popular movie “The Sound of Music”. Your hotel is located within walking distance of Salzburg Central Station and in the early afternoon – after you have checked in – you will join the English-speaking most unique 4-hour Sound of Music tour !

Budapest Rail tour, Impressions Salzburg

Salzburg © Thomas H. Giesick

This tour is an ideal opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Maria von Trapp while taking in local historical sights both from the city of Salzburg and also the picturesque lakes and mountains surrounding the city. After the tour, you may want to walk across the Salzach River to take a look at Mozart’s birth house and the small shopping streets in the area. Here you also find a wide choice of restaurants for dinner.

Day 7 Vienna

In about 2 hours and 40 minutes, the high-speed “ Rail Jet ” (RJ) will take you throughout Austria, from Salzburg to Vienna located in the east of Austria, close to the borders to the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary. The price of your tour package already includes the 48 hour Vienna Card . With this card, you will enjoy more than  200 discounts in Vienna , at museums and sights, theaters and concerts, in shops, cafes, restaurants and also the “Heurige” wine taverns. But most importantly with this card, you also enjoy unlimited free public transportation within Vienna. Even though your hotel is located in the City Center it is great to have the option to take the subway, a street-car or a public bus. On your first day in Vienna, you may want to visit the Imperial Palace , for example, the “Hofburg Vienna”, the center of the former Habsburg Empire .  The Palace was Sisi´s Imperial home and household, and the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum and the Silver Collection can be visited here. At the Vienna Hofburg, you will also find the Spanish Riding School  where you may want to watch a performance or join a practice session and also the Old Town Hall  which is close by. In the immediate walking distance of the Hofburg you will find the State Opera House , definitely one of the world’s most famous Opera Houses where the Vienna Opera Ball takes place every year. St. Stephen’s Cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Vienna and it is a “must see” as well as smaller churches like the “Universitatskirche” ( Jesuits Church ) and the “Peterskirche” ( St. Peter’s Church ).

Budapest Rail tour

Schoenbrunn Palace ©Österreich Werbung, Horvath and Church of Mariahilf Vienna © Österreich Werbung

Day 8 Vienna

Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Vienna with your 48 hour Vienna Card . Maybe you want to visit the “ Ringstrasse ”, a circular road around the inner city districts of Vienna. In the 19th century the road was replacing the Old City Wall which had been built in the 13th century.  Many of the buildings you find along this road, the Austrian Parliament Building or the University of Vienna the for example, were built around the 1850´s. You may want to visit Schonbrunn Palace and its beautiful Garden. Your Vienna Card covers the fare to get there; the subway station “Schonbrunn” (subway line U4) is very close to the entrance of Schonbrunn Palace, once the summer residence of the Habsburg family and home of Maria Theresa. The Rococo palace is one of the most important architectural, cultural and historical monuments in Austria and nowadays is one of the most visited sights in Vienna. It all started with the building of a mansion on hunting grounds in 1548 just outside of Vienna. The impressive Palace in its present form (it has 1,441 rooms !) was built and remodeled around the 1750s by Maria Theresa. Make sure to plan in some time for a visit of Schonbrunn Garden . There you also find the Neptune Fountain  and Gloriette , which was designed to symbolize the glory of the Habsburg power.

Day 9 Budapest

In a little less than three hours, you will be in Budapest. Budapest is one of Europe’s most charming and romantic cities. It consists of two very different cities, Buda on the West bank of the Danube River and Pest on the East bank. Most of Budapest’s famous sights are concentrated on Castle Hill on the Buda side, in downtown Pest, and along the riverside walkways. You are holding a 48-hour Hop-on Hop-off City Tour Ticket which is a great way to explore the City. The most popular attraction of Budapest is the Royal Palace which is towering on the Castle Hill above the city as well as the Parliament Building – a neo-gothic jewel, beautifully situated overlooking the Danube. St. Stephen’s Basilica is the main church of Budapest. It is an important example of neoclassical architecture. The mummified right hand of Hungary´s first king, St. Stephen, is kept in the chapel. The 96-meter high dome can be seen from anywhere in the city and the inside is beautifully decorated with mosaics. Also worth visiting is the  State Opera House .

Budapest Rail tour

Day 10 Budapest

Your 48 – hour Hop-on Hop-off City ticket is still valid today and you may want to take another tour to see more of Budapest. Later on you may want to walk down to the Danube to visit the Chain Bridge (Szechenyi lanchid) as well as stroll along the Danube River bank. The “ Shoes on the Danube Bank ” can be found there; it is a memorial which honors the Jews who were killed by fascist in Budapest during World War II. The Jews in Budapest were ordered to take off their shoes and were shot at the edge of the water so that their bodies fell into the river and were carried away. The memorial represents their shoes left behind on the bank. More detailed information about the horrors can be found at the Holocaust Memorial Center with its Exhibition Hall, the Synagogue and the “ Wall of Victims ”.

Day 11 Budapest Int. Airport

By Airport Shuttle transfer you will get from your hotel to Budapest Airport where your tour ends. Please provide your departure details so we can arrange your transfer accordingly.

Would you like to download an overview of the 11 Day Amsterdam to Budapest Rail Tour (11R02)  as a pdf to print it out or to forward it to a friend? Please download it right here:

Download Itinerary

This is already included in the price of your tour

Your tour package includes all tickets, vouchers, and information necessary to enjoy a great independent tour. The tour package also contains tour information sheets (20-35 pages) with general information about the tour and a day by day itinerary which you can download from our website once your booking is confirmed.   Book Tour

This is not included in the price of your tour

  • Airfare from your origin to Amsterdam Int. Airport/from Budapest International Airport to your origin
  • all meals other than breakfast (which is included)
  • gratuities (tips)

You have booked the tour already and would like to download the to- europe tour information package  for this tour now? Please download them right here:

Download Package

CUSTOMIZED RAIL TOUR PRAGUE TO BUDAPEST We want to let you know how our trip to the Czech Rep., Austria, Slovakia and Hungary went. Well, as the previous two tours you put together for us this was also ” Fantastic”. Prague, Linz, Graz, Vienna, Bratislava, Gyor, Budapest and Eger were all beautiful cities. The hotels in these cities were very good, especially the “Apartment” in Budapest. The location of the hotels were very good. The rail tickets worked out just fine. The Tours you provided in Prague, Vienna and Budapest were very good, enabling us to see the most beautiful parts of these cities, especially the All day Danube Valley Tour. The information sheets provided made our trip very easy. Thomas, we want to thank you for helping us have another ” Fantastic” vacation. – Jerry, Janet, & Timothy M., Minneapolis, MN, USA   

We are fortunate to have travelers from all over the world on our pre-packaged tours and we would love to have your feedback! If you have been traveling along this tour with us please leave us a review below – we greatly appreciate your time! (your Email address will not be displayed)

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Our trip was absolutely awesome. We booked a custom tour from Amsterdam to Cologne, Kronberg, Nuremberg, Garmisch-Partenkirchen including the Zugspitze, Heidelberg, and back to Amsterdam. All Hotel and travel arrangements were superb. We had no difficulty in traveling by train and locating our hotels. This was our 5th tour with ToEurope and we are definitely planning another exciting trip next year. We highly recommend ToEurope for all European travel plans.
Thank you for your professionalism in organising our Rail trip. So very easy to deal with via email & .vouchers were at our hotel & every detail attended to . Hotels all great & all but Cologne , we were able to check in within 30 minutes of our arrival, this is so appreciated , I must admit every hotel took longer to find , just my bad directional issues . Rail all good , and being so close to stations lots of eating places nearby . Tours were great except the one hiccup in Munich with the Grayline staff not understanding the voucher . Wonderful experience . Marg Lane .Melbourne Australia .
All pre-scheduled city to city by train and hotel accommodation were fantastic. Hotel accommodations were wonderful because they were all walking distance to the train stations. Of course all scene, museums and castle were fantastic but I wished I had one more day in Salzburg. After the Sound of Music Tour which lasted half a day, there was not much time left to do see other attractions. However, I thoroughly enjoyed the trip and I will definitely recommend others to get To-Europe.com.
The whole trip was seamless which made it so enjoyable. The accommodation, train travel and location were fantastic! These guys really know how to organise a pleasurable holiday! Keep up the good work! Can't for our next trip with you guys!!!!

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road trip from amsterdam to budapest

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Budapest to Amsterdam Tours & Trips

Find adventures that start in Budapest and then finish in Amsterdam. Trips from Budapest to Amsterdam are most popular in November, with the most tours doing this route then.

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14 budapest to amsterdam tour packages with 7 reviews.

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Grand European Tour Budapest to Amsterdam Tour

Grand European Tour Budapest to Amsterdam

Nothing was too much trouble for staff. Excellent organisation and xare of clients.

European Gems Budapest to Amsterdam (2025) Tour

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European Gems Budapest to Amsterdam (2025)

European Gems Budapest to Amsterdam (2024) Tour

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Take the excellent overnight train from Cologne (depart 20:05) to Vienna (arrive 09:04). Couchettes from 39 euros, a bed in a 2-bed sleeper from 69 euros. Book at www.bahn.de. The train heads down the Rhine Valley in the moonlight, past castles and vineyards.

Then hop on the 09:50 Railjet to Budapest arriving 13:15 or thereabouts. Fare 30 euros at the station, from 19 euros if you pre-book at http://www.oebb.at

By all means book an earlier ICE and spend longer in Cologne, or spand some time in Vienna.

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road trip from amsterdam to budapest

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Trippy

Budapest to Amsterdam via Berlin

Budapest to amsterdam road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Budapest to Amsterdam. If you're planning a road trip to Amsterdam, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in Budapest drive for about 2 hours

11:59 am   Bratislava stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:59 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

2:29 pm   Brno stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:29 pm drive for about 2 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 5.5 hours find more stops

8:00 am  leave from Sir Toby´s Hostel drive for about 4 hours

11:47 am   Berlin eat at Burgermeister stay for about 4 hours and leave at 3:47 pm drive for about 3 hours

6:46 pm   Hannover (Germany) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 7:46 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

9:08 pm   Osnabruck stay for about 1 hour and leave at 10:08 pm drive for about 2 hours

12:22 am (past midnight)  arrive in Amsterdam stay at Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark

day 2 driving ≈ 10.5 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Bratislava   (34 answers)     questions about Bratislava:         Cheap/free places to visit in Bratislava Brno   (13 answers)     questions about Brno:         What's the best neighborhood in Brno for a first time visitor?         What is your favorite restaurant in Brno?         Where to store my luggage? Prague   (332 answers)     Charles Bridge   (28 mentions)     Prague Castle   (23 mentions)     Old Town Square   (10 mentions)     St. Vitus Cathedral   (9 mentions)     Pražský orloj   (9 mentions)     restaurants around Prague:         Lokál Dlouhá         Café Savoy         Čestr         Bakeshop         La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise     hotels around Prague:         Sir Toby´s Hostel         Hostel Prague Tyn         The Iron Gate Hotel And Suites Prague         Residence Karolina - Prague City Apartments         Czech Inn, Prague     questions about Prague:         Best local eats in Prague?         What are the most popular areas in Prague?         Restaurants in Prague         Transfer from Prague Airport         Things to do for a Solo Traveler in Prague and is it safe? Berlin   (334 answers)     Brandenburg Gate   (28 mentions)     Bundestag   (22 mentions)     Checkpoint Charlie   (18 mentions)     Holocaust Memorial   (17 mentions)     Tiergarten   (14 mentions)     restaurants around Berlin:         Burgermeister         Mustafa's Gemüse Kebap         DDR Museum Berlin         The Barn         Curry 36     questions about Berlin:         Free things to do in Berlin?         What are the top 3 things I can't miss in Berlin?         What's the best neighborhood in Berlin for a first time visitor?         As a first timer how long should one spend in Berlin?         Which are the best districts/areas for a hotel in Berlin? Hannover (Germany)   (3 answers)     New Town Hall   (2 mentions)     questions about Hannover (Germany):         Sight seeing or local attractions in Hannover? Osnabruck

Where's the best place to stay in Amsterdam?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in Amsterdam .

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark , which was mentioned 9 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in Amsterdam? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in Amsterdam?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Bar Bukowski , which was mentioned 10 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in Amsterdam? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Amsterdam?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Amsterdam. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

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Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Amsterdam.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Amsterdam to Budapest drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Budapest to Amsterdam . Or get a full Budapest to Amsterdam flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Budapest well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Budapest!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Budapest to Amsterdam

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions

COMMENTS

  1. 40 Best Stops Between Amsterdam and Budapest

    The top cities between Amsterdam and Budapest are Vienna, Munich, Salzburg, Cologne, Bratislava, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Nuremberg, Heidelberg, and Dusseldorf. Vienna is the most popular city on the route. It's 10 hours from Amsterdam and 2 hours from Budapest. Show only these on map.

  2. Amsterdam to Budapest drive

    drive for about 1.5 hours. 6:09 pm Bratislava. stay for about 1 hour. and leave at 7:09 pm. drive for about 2 hours. 9:15 pm arrive in Budapest. stay at Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest. day 2 driving ≈ 7.5 hours. find more stops.

  3. Best route to drive from Amsterdam to Budapest

    Amsterdam to Budapest via A14 and D1 passing through Prague, Czech Republic. From: To: Compare routes. Find the best roads to take from Amsterdam to Budapest by car if you're planning a trip. If you want to explore small towns along the way, get a list of cities between Amsterdam, Netherlands and Budapest, Hungary .

  4. Amsterdam to Budapest

    The distance between Amsterdam and Budapest is 1206 km. The road distance is 1397.4 km. Get driving directions ... Find all the transport options for your trip from Amsterdam to Budapest right here. Rome2Rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated fares from relevant transport operators, ensuring you can make an ...

  5. Budapest to Amsterdam drive

    Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Budapest to Amsterdam. If you're planning a road trip to Amsterdam, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

  6. Amsterdam to Budapest Drive

    Day 7 Drive to Budapest. Day 8 to 10 Budapest. Day 11 / 12 drive back to Dusseldorf, and train or bus back to Amsterdam. Day5 and Day6 could have been Vienna as well, however from what i read Vienna is too big for just a day, so we will do it another trip.

  7. Amsterdam to Budapest Tours & Trips

    Mandy Junop 8 May, 2023. 4. Itinerary is great, tour is well run with good excursions and optional, some slight issues with train logistics but a really great trip. Amsterdam to Budapest Rail Explorer. Cheryl McEvoy 9 Apr, 2024. 5. This was our first Viking cruise and loved the River Cruise as there are less than 200 guests on board. The staff ...

  8. Budapest to Amsterdam

    The distance between Budapest and Amsterdam is 1206 km. The road distance is 1397.1 km. Get driving directions ... Find all the transport options for your trip from Budapest to Amsterdam right here. Rome2Rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated fares from relevant transport operators, ensuring you can make an ...

  9. How far is Budapest from Amsterdam

    Amsterdam to Budapest road trip Let's say you're actually planning a road trip to Budapest, and you want to stop along the way to rest. If it's a real road trip, you might want to check out interesting stops along the way, eat at great restaurants, and maybe even find a hotel to stay overnight.

  10. How To Travel Amsterdam to Budapest by Air, Train or Coach

    Single fares range from €30 (seat), €59 (6 berth couchette) to €129 (1 bed sleeper). Book at the TheTrainline site. Berlin-Budapest sleeper: Take a morning Intercity Berlin train between Amsterdam and Berlin (runs 5-6x daily each way, takes 6 hours 30 minutes) with fares from €37.90 (2nd class) and €59.90 (1st class).

  11. The Ultimate 5-Day Netherlands Road Trip Itinerary

    Day 1: Amsterdam to Groningen. After renting a car from either the airport or central station, it's time to start your road trip around the Netherlands by heading north toward the city of Groningen. Groningen is a young city with a large university and is roughly a 2.5-hour drive from Amsterdam.

  12. Eight Amazing One Week Itineraries for Central Europe

    Here's how to spend one week visiting these beautiful cities in Central Europe: Day 1: Explore Prague. Day 2: Explore Prague. Day 3: Drive (or train) to Vienna, stop at Cesky Krumlov en route. Day 4: Explore Vienna. Day 5: Explore Vienna. Day 6: Drive (or train) to and explore Budapest.

  13. Top 10 Highlights of Our Amsterdam to Budapest Cruise

    Viking Grand European Tour. One of the best things about Viking Amsterdam to Budapest river cruises is the ease of access to some of the most well preserved medieval cities in Europe. Spending 15 days on a Rhine Main Danube river cruise, travelers see some of the most magnificent European sights.

  14. Amsterdam to Budapest from $78 (€68)

    The cheapest way to go to Budapest from Amsterdam is by taking a bus, which costs on average $78 (€68). This is compared to other ways of getting from Amsterdam to Budapest: A bus is $85 (€74) less than a flight with an average ticket price of $162 (€142) from Amsterdam to Budapest. Taking a bus costs $14 (€12) less than taking a train ...

  15. Top 10 Road Trips From Amsterdam, Netherlands

    A road trip from Amsterdam to Lucerne, Switzerland by the most direct route will take approximately 8 hours and 54 minutes to travel the 839 km (521 mi), via the A3 and A5. Head out from Amsterdam to the German border where you will travel through Cologne, Frankfurt, and Stuttgart all the way to the Swiss border. ...

  16. How far is Amsterdam from Budapest

    Driving non-stop from Budapest to Amsterdam. How far is Amsterdam from Budapest? Here's the quick answer if you have friends taking shifts as driver so that you can make the entire trip by car without stopping. Nonstop drive: 868 miles or 1397 km. Driving time: 13 hours, 21 minutes.

  17. Amsterdam to Budapest Rail Tour

    11-Day Amsterdam to Budapest Rail Tour (11R02) Budapest Rail Tour. From Amsterdam to Cologne, Wurzburg, Nuremberg, Munich, Salzburg, and Vienna to Budapest, this Rail tour covers many of the nicest sights in Central Europe. The tour includes an all-day escorted coach tour from Munich to Oberammergau, Linderhof Palace and Neuschwanstein Castle ...

  18. Which River Flows From Amsterdam To Budapest?

    From exploring the historic Castle Hill to relaxing in the famous thermal baths, Budapest captivates visitors with its charm and allure. Traversing the course of the Danube River from Amsterdam to Budapest is a captivating journey through time and culture. It offers an immersive experience of Europe's diverse landscapes, enchanting cities, and ...

  19. Budapest to Amsterdam Tours & Trips

    Trips from Budapest to Amsterdam are most popular in November, with the most tours doing this route then. Dates & length Places Filters. Filters applied. We applied your filter preferences from your previous search. Clear all Ok, got it 14 Budapest to Amsterdam tour packages with 7 reviews

  20. Amsterdam to Budapest

    Hop on the 16:12 ICE train Amsterdam to Cologne arriving 19:12. Fares from 19 euros booked at www.bahn.de. Great views of Cologne's cathedral from the station. Take the excellent overnight train from Cologne (depart 20:05) to Vienna (arrive 09:04). Couchettes from 39 euros, a bed in a 2-bed sleeper from 69 euros.

  21. Budapest to Amsterdam via Berlin drive

    Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Budapest to Amsterdam. If you're planning a road trip to Amsterdam, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.