9 day itinerary for Viena, Praga, Budapest,bratislava

Itinerary

That sounds like an exciting trip through Central Europe! With your family in tow and a focus on budget-friendly options, I’ve crafted a 9-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, cultural experiences, and some downtime. Let’s hop on this train of adventure!

## Day 1: Arrival in Vienna

• Morning: Arrive in Vienna. Check into your accommodation (consider budget-friendly hostels or family-run hotels).
• Afternoon: Start your exploration at Schönbrunn Palace. The gardens are free to roam, and you can enjoy a picnic lunch there.
• Evening: Head to Naschmarkt for dinner. This vibrant market has plenty of affordable food stalls. Try some local Viennese dishes!

## Day 2: Vienna

• Morning: Visit the Belvedere Palace. The gardens are free, and the views are stunning!
• Afternoon: Explore the Historic Center. Don’t miss St. Stephen’s Cathedral and grab a slice of Sachertorte at a local café.
• Evening: Take a stroll along the Danube Canal. There are often free events or live music in the area.

## Day 3: Vienna to Bratislava

• Morning: Take a short train ride (about 1 hour) to Bratislava.
• Afternoon: Explore the Old Town. Visit Bratislava Castle for panoramic views of the city.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local eatery. Try some traditional Slovak dishes like bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese).

## Day 4: Bratislava to Budapest

• Morning: After breakfast, take a train to Budapest (around 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and then head to Heroes' Square and the City Park.
• Evening: Visit the Ruin Bars in the Jewish Quarter for a unique dining experience. Many have affordable menus!

## Day 5: Budapest

• Morning: Start your day at the Buda Castle. Explore the grounds and enjoy the views of the Danube.
• Afternoon: Cross the Chain Bridge and visit the Hungarian Parliament Building. You can take a free walking tour to learn more about the history.
• Evening: Relax at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath. It’s a fun experience for the whole family, and you can find family tickets for a better deal.

## Day 6: Budapest

• Morning: Visit the Great Market Hall for breakfast. Try some local pastries and fresh produce.
• Afternoon: Explore Margaret Island. Rent bikes or just stroll around the park. It’s a lovely spot for a family picnic.
• Evening: Head to the Danube Promenade for a scenic evening walk. You can catch a glimpse of the illuminated Parliament building.

## Day 7: Budapest to Prague

• Morning: Take a train to Prague (around 7 hours, so pack some snacks and games for the journey).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and then head to Old Town Square. Don’t miss the Astronomical Clock!
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local pub. Czech cuisine is hearty and affordable!

## Day 8: Prague

• Morning: Visit Prague Castle. The grounds are free, and you can explore St. Vitus Cathedral.
• Afternoon: Walk across the Charles Bridge and enjoy the street performers.
• Evening: Explore the Lesser Town (Malá Strana) and have dinner at a cozy restaurant. Try some goulash!

## Day 9: Departure from Prague

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, you can visit the John Lennon Wall and grab some last-minute souvenirs.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

Tips for Budget Travel:

• Train Tickets: Book your train tickets in advance for better deals. Consider using regional trains for shorter distances.
• Food: Look for local bakeries and markets for affordable meals. Street food is also a great option!
• Attractions: Many cities offer free walking tours, which are a fantastic way to learn about the history and culture without breaking the bank.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories with your family! Enjoy your trip through these beautiful cities! 🌍✨