If you’re craving castles, cozy cafes, and cobblestone streets, Central Europe is your dream come true. The best part? You don’t need a month to see the highlights. With the right planning, one week is enough to soak up culture, history, and some seriously good food. Whether you’re traveling by train, bus, or budget flight, the region is well-connected and full of surprises.
In this guide, I’ve put together 8 amazing 1-week itineraries for Central Europe. They’re based on real travel experiences and crafted to balance sightseeing with downtime. No rushing from one monument to the next—just the right mix of adventure and chill. Let’s start with a classic.
Itinerary 1: Classic Central Europe – Prague, Vienna & Budapest
Why choose this route?
This trio is the golden triangle of Central Europe. All three cities are gorgeous, affordable, and packed with history. Plus, the train rides between them are smooth and scenic.
Day 1-2: Prague, Czech Republic
Start your trip in the fairytale city of Prague.
- Walk across Charles Bridge at sunrise (before the crowds).
- Wander the Old Town Square and watch the Astronomical Clock strike the hour.
- Don’t miss Prague Castle—go in the late afternoon for fewer tour groups.
- For dinner, try lokál cuisine like svíčková (beef in creamy sauce) with dumplings.
Where to stay: Choose Mala Strana or Old Town for easy access to sights.
Budget tip: Beer is cheaper than water here—seriously.
Day 3-4: Vienna, Austria
Next, hop on a 4-hour train to Vienna. Elegant and refined, it’s a total contrast to Prague’s medieval vibe.
- Visit Schönbrunn Palace and stroll its gardens.
- Stop at a classic coffee house—Café Central is historic, but Café Sperl feels more local.
- Watch the sunset from the rooftop of the Leopold Museum in the MuseumsQuartier.
Extra experience: Catch a classical music concert at a palace. Yes, it’s touristy. But worth it.
Where to stay: Look for hotels or hostels near the Naschmarkt or Mariahilf area—central but not too pricey.
Day 5-7: Budapest, Hungary
End your week in Budapest, one of Europe’s most underrated capitals.
- Relax in the Széchenyi Thermal Baths or Gellért Baths.
- Explore the ruin pubs in the Jewish Quarter—Szimpla Kert is iconic.
- Take a Danube evening cruise for postcard views of Parliament lit up at night.
- Hike up Gellért Hill or Buda Castle for panoramic city views.
Where to stay: The Pest side, especially District VII, is great for nightlife and food.
Transport tip: Use FlixBus for cheap travel if trains are full. It’s slower but very affordable.
Itinerary 2 – Hidden Gems Loop: Ljubljana, Lake Bled & Zagreb
(A peaceful week through Slovenia and Northern Croatia)
If you’re looking for fewer tourists, nature escapes, and cozy city charm, this itinerary hits the spot. It’s great for couples or solo travelers who want beauty without big crowds.
Itinerary 2: Hidden Gems Loop – Ljubljana, Lake Bled & Zagreb
Why choose this route?
Slovenia and northern Croatia are stunning yet underrated. The cities are walkable, the people friendly, and the scenery unreal. It’s all doable in a week without feeling rushed.
Day 1-2: Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is small but full of charm. The old town feels like a storybook.
- Climb up to Ljubljana Castle for views over red rooftops.
- Chill along the riverbanks with a coffee or gelato.
- Visit Metelkova Art Center, a quirky, graffiti-covered zone with bars and art.
- Try local food like štruklji (rolled dumplings) and čevapi (grilled meat).
Where to stay: Stay near Prešeren Square for walking distance to all the main sights.
Insider tip: Rent a bike! Ljubljana is super bike-friendly and flat.
Day 3-4: Lake Bled, Slovenia
Take a short bus or car ride to Lake Bled—it’s one of the most picturesque spots in Europe.
- Row to Bled Island or take a traditional pletna boat.
- Hike to Ojstrica viewpoint for postcard views over the lake.
- Don’t miss a slice of the famous Bled cream cake (kremšnita).
Overnight tip: Stay at a guesthouse with a lake view, if possible. It’s worth it.
Extra idea: If you have energy, take a day trip to Lake Bohinj, which is wilder and less crowded.
Day 5-7: Zagreb, Croatia
End in Croatia’s capital—less talked about, but full of cool surprises.
- Explore the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships.
- Ride the world’s shortest funicular to Upper Town.
- Sip coffee at a terrace on Tkalčićeva Street and people-watch.
- Visit Dolac Market in the morning for fresh fruit and local snacks.
Where to stay: Lower Town (Donji Grad) has plenty of affordable hotels and hostels.
Transport tip: Buses connect Bled and Zagreb easily. FlixBus or local buses both work well.
Itinerary 3 – The Alpine Escape: Munich, Salzburg & Hallstatt
(Perfect for nature lovers and culture fans alike)
If you dream of mountains, lakes, and cozy alpine towns, this itinerary is for you. It mixes German beer gardens, Mozart’s hometown, and one of the prettiest lakeside villages in the world.
Itinerary 3: The Alpine Escape – Munich, Salzburg & Hallstatt
Why choose this route?
It’s compact, scenic, and incredibly relaxing. The train connections are easy, and the views along the way are stunning. This is ideal for a spring or fall trip.
Day 1-2: Munich, Germany
Start in Munich, Bavaria’s capital. It’s lively but not overwhelming.
- Explore Marienplatz and watch the Glockenspiel chime at 11 AM.
- Visit the English Garden—yes, that’s a surfer riding a river wave.
- Grab a hearty meal and a liter of beer at Hofbräuhaus or Augustiner Bräustuben.
- If you’re into history, Dachau Memorial Site is a sobering but important half-day trip.
Where to stay: Ludwigsvorstadt or Maxvorstadt are well-connected and not too pricey.
Budget tip: Skip cabs—public transport is excellent and includes trams, buses, and the U-Bahn.
Day 3-4: Salzburg, Austria
Just a 1.5-hour train ride away, Salzburg feels like a movie set—because it is. (Hello, The Sound of Music!)
- Visit Mozart’s birthplace and stroll Getreidegasse, the old shopping street.
- Hike up to Hohensalzburg Fortress for stunning city views.
- Take a half-day Sound of Music tour if you’re a fan—or just enjoy Mirabell Gardens.
- Try a slice of Sachertorte and a coffee at Café Tomaselli.
Where to stay: The old town or near the train station are both good bets.
Insider tip: Salzburg is very walkable, so no need to stress about transport passes.
Day 5-7: Hallstatt, Austria
Finally, head to Hallstatt, a lakeside village that looks straight out of a fairytale.
- Stroll the lakefront, take a boat ride, or just enjoy the quiet beauty.
- Visit the Salt Mine (Salzwelten Hallstatt) for a bit of history and fun.
- Don’t miss the panoramic view from the Skywalk—it’s breathtaking.
Where to stay: Book early—guesthouses fill up fast, especially in summer.
Getting there: Train to Hallstatt station + ferry across the lake = part of the adventure!
Itinerary 4: Culture & Castles – Kraków, Wrocław & Dresden
(Lesser-known gems packed with history and charm)
This is the itinerary for travelers who like their cities with a side of stories—some heartbreaking, some heartwarming. Think medieval squares, colorful buildings, and thought-provoking museums.
Why choose this route?
You’ll see the best of Poland and Eastern Germany—without the crowds of Berlin or Warsaw. It’s rich in history, yet surprisingly affordable.
Day 1-3: Kraków, Poland
Start in Kraków, one of Poland’s most beautiful and moving cities.
- Wander the Rynek Główny (Main Square) and listen to the bugler at St. Mary’s Basilica.
- Visit Wawel Castle and its dragon legend.
- Spend a sobering day at Auschwitz-Birkenau—a hard, but essential experience.
- Don’t skip Kazimierz (the Jewish Quarter)—it’s packed with culture and great food.
Where to stay: Old Town or Kazimierz are both ideal. Hostels here are affordable and cozy.
Food tip: Try pierogi (Polish dumplings) and zapiekanka (street food-style baguette pizza).
Day 4-5: Wrocław, Poland
Catch a bus or train to Wrocław (about 3 hours). It’s colorful, quirky, and full of surprises.
- Hunt for the tiny gnome statues hidden all over the city.
- Admire the architecture of the Market Square—it rivals Prague’s!
- Relax on Cathedral Island at sunset with views over the Oder River.
Fun fact: Wrocław was once part of Germany and has a blended cultural feel.
Day 6-7: Dresden, Germany
Finish your week in Dresden. Almost completely rebuilt after WWII, it’s now a gorgeous mix of old and new.
- Visit the Frauenkirche and walk through the Altstadt (Old Town).
- Explore the Zwinger Palace and its art collections.
- Stroll the banks of the Elbe River or take a river cruise.
Where to stay: Neustadt for a hipster vibe, Altstadt for classic charm.
Transport tip: Buses (like FlixBus) are super affordable between these cities.
Itinerary 5 – Lakes, Castles & Alps: Zurich, Lucerne & Innsbruck
(A perfect mix of Swiss lakes and Austrian peaks)
If you’re craving mountain views, turquoise lakes, and a touch of luxury, this route delivers. It’s a slightly pricier trip—but absolutely worth it if you’re after postcard-perfect nature.
Itinerary 5: Lakes, Castles & Alps – Zurich, Lucerne & Innsbruck
Why choose this route?
Switzerland and western Austria offer jaw-dropping views and super efficient public transport. You’ll trade nightlife for nature, but the landscapes more than make up for it.
Day 1-2: Zurich, Switzerland
Start in Zurich, a clean and cultured city with great lakeside vibes.
- Walk along Lake Zurich or take a quick dip if the weather’s warm.
- Visit the Kunsthaus Zurich (art museum) or wander the Old Town alleys.
- Try Swiss chocolate—Sprüngli is a great start.
- Grab dinner at Zeughauskeller for hearty Swiss-German food.
Budget tip: Zurich is pricey. Grab lunch from Coop or Migros supermarkets to save.
Where to stay: Look for guesthouses or budget hotels near the central train station (Zürich HB).
Day 3-4: Lucerne, Switzerland
Take a short train ride to Lucerne, one of the prettiest lakeside towns in the country.
- Walk across the Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge).
- Take a boat ride on Lake Lucerne or hop on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway to Mount Pilatus.
- Visit the Swiss Transport Museum—it’s surprisingly fun, even if you’re not into trains.
Extra idea: If you want dramatic views, take a day trip to Mt. Titlis or Mt. Rigi.
Where to stay: Near the lake or Old Town for those classic views.
Day 5-7: Innsbruck, Austria
Hop on a train east to Innsbruck, tucked into the Austrian Alps.
- Ride the Nordkette cable car up for jaw-dropping alpine views.
- Stroll through the medieval Old Town and see the Golden Roof.
- Try käsespätzle (cheesy alpine pasta) at a local tavern.
- In winter, go skiing. In summer, hiking trails start right from town.
Where to stay: Stay central—everything is walkable.
Transport tip: The scenic train from Lucerne to Innsbruck via Zurich is worth the ride alone.
Itinerary 6: Old World Meets Modern Cool – Berlin, Leipzig & Prague
(History, creativity, and big city energy)
If you’re drawn to bold art, rich history, and cool cafes, this one’s for you. You’ll explore cities shaped by war and rebirth—each with a unique rhythm.
Why choose this route?
This trip blends gritty and graceful. It’s perfect for solo travelers, creatives, or anyone curious about the real Europe—past and present.
Day 1-3: Berlin, Germany
Start in Berlin—a city that never sleeps and never stops evolving.
- Walk the Berlin Wall Memorial and East Side Gallery.
- Visit the haunting Holocaust Memorial and Brandenburg Gate.
- Explore quirky neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Neukölln.
- Don’t miss currywurst and döner kebabs—they’re part of the culture here.
Where to stay: Stay in Mitte for easy access or Kreuzberg for more edge and nightlife.
Money tip: Many places are cash-only. Always carry euros.
Day 4-5: Leipzig, Germany
Hop on a train to Leipzig (just over 1 hour). It’s Berlin’s artsy little sibling.
- Check out the Spinnerei art complex—old factory turned gallery hub.
- Climb the Panorama Tower for city views.
- Relax in Clara-Zetkin Park or by one of the many lakes nearby.
Why it’s great: Leipzig is cool without trying too hard—and much cheaper than Berlin.
Day 6-7: Prague, Czech Republic
Wrap up your trip in magical Prague.
- Revisit the spots from Itinerary 1, or dive deeper into neighborhoods like Vinohrady or Letná.
- Visit the Lennon Wall and take a peaceful walk along the Vltava River.
- For a final splurge, have dinner with a view at Terasa U Prince.
Getting there: The train ride from Leipzig to Prague takes about 2.5–3 hours and is super scenic.
Itinerary 7 – Danube Dream Route: Bratislava, Vienna & Budapest
(Three capitals, one river, endless charm)
This route is ideal for history lovers, architecture fans, and first-time Europe travelers. All three cities are close together—so you’ll spend less time in transit and more time exploring.
Itinerary 7: Danube Dream Route – Bratislava, Vienna & Budapest
Why choose this route?
You get to explore three capital cities—each with a distinct personality—while following one of Europe’s most iconic rivers: the Danube. It’s affordable, scenic, and efficient.
Day 1-2: Bratislava, Slovakia
Start in the often-overlooked Bratislava. It’s charming, walkable, and surprisingly fun.
- Wander the Old Town and climb to Bratislava Castle for views over the Danube.
- Snap a selfie with the quirky street statues (like Čumil the Sewer Worker).
- Grab dinner at Slovak Pub—hearty portions and very budget-friendly.
Where to stay: Near the city center or by the river for great sunsets.
Extra tip: You only need a day or two here, so don’t overplan.
Day 3-4: Vienna, Austria
Take a 1-hour train or boat ride to Vienna, and dive into the grandeur.
- Focus on what you missed in Itinerary 1, like Belvedere Palace or the Opera House.
- Explore the hipster district of Neubau for cool coffee shops and streetwear boutiques.
- Relax at the Prater amusement park or ride the Ferris wheel for retro fun.
Food tip: Have lunch at a Würstelstand (sausage stand) for cheap eats.
Day 5-7: Budapest, Hungary
End in Budapest with a mix of culture and relaxation.
- Walk across the Chain Bridge and hike to Fisherman’s Bastion.
- Try Hungarian goulash and lángos (fried dough topped with cheese and garlic).
- If you’re visiting in summer, check out a Sziget Festival day or head to Margaret Island for a picnic.
Transport tip: Use regional trains for flexibility—tickets between these cities are affordable and frequent.
Itinerary 8: Bohemian Escape – Dresden, Cesky Krumlov & Prague
(Storybook towns with rich history and romantic vibes)
Want to feel like you’ve stepped into a medieval painting? This offbeat itinerary combines dramatic architecture, quiet rivers, and colorful towns.
Why choose this route?
Perfect for couples or slow travelers, this one is all about beauty and atmosphere—with plenty of cozy corners to pause and soak it in.
Day 1-2: Dresden, Germany
Start in Dresden, back for a second mention because it’s just that underrated.
- Focus on any missed sites: Royal Palace, Albertinum, or the Green Vault.
- Take a walk along the Brühl’s Terrace for views of the Elbe.
- Check out Neustadt for indie bars and record shops.
Where to stay: Try a boutique guesthouse in Neustadt or a riverfront hotel.
Day 3-4: Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
From Dresden, head to Cesky Krumlov—either via Prague or by bus. It’s a small detour, but oh so worth it.
- Tour the Cesky Krumlov Castle and climb the tower.
- Wander through winding cobbled streets and riverside cafes.
- At night, enjoy a beer at a medieval-style tavern with candlelight.
Overnight tip: Stay in the old town—after the day-trippers leave, the place becomes magically quiet.
Transport note: It takes about 4-5 hours from Dresden depending on your route.
Day 5-7: Prague, Czech Republic
End in Prague again, but see it through the lens of a slower pace.
- Visit the Vyšehrad fortress area—it’s peaceful, with panoramic views and no tour groups.
- Spend time in Letná Park or take a beer garden break.
- Pick up handmade souvenirs from local artists in Mala Strana.
Final Thoughts
Here’s a quick recap to help you decide:
| Itinerary | Vibe | Best for |
| 1. Prague–Vienna–Budapest | Classic, iconic | First-time visitors |
| 2. Ljubljana–Bled–Zagreb | Relaxed, nature | Couples, introverts |
| 3. Munich–Salzburg–Hallstatt | Alpine & cultural | Nature lovers |
| 4. Kraków–Wrocław–Dresden | Rich history | Budget & history buffs |
| 5. Zurich–Lucerne–Innsbruck | Scenic & upscale | Luxury/nature seekers |
| 6. Berlin–Leipzig–Prague | Creative & gritty | Art lovers, solo travelers |
| 7. Bratislava–Vienna–Budapest | Efficient & elegant | Budget + convenience |
| 8. Dresden–Cesky Krumlov–Prague | Storybook charm | Couples, slow travel fans |
Central Europe has something for everyone—whether you’re chasing castles or just want to sit by a river with a good coffee. These one-week itineraries are designed to help you explore without overwhelm. You’ll leave with new memories, beautiful photos, and probably a deep love for schnitzel.
