The Austro-Hungarian Empire – 13 days 12 nights

You begin your journey from a Danish train station, boarding an Intercity train.

Along the way, you pass through the beautiful Danish countryside, and as you leave Denmark, the landscape gradually changes. Northern Germany unfolds with fields, rivers, and forest areas.

After a few hours, you arrive at Hamburg Central Station, one of the largest and busiest railway stations in Germany.

In Hamburg, you change trains to a German or Czech ICE train with a restaurant carriage. On board, you can purchase refreshments throughout the journey. The trains offer high comfort, spacious seating, WiFi, and power sockets for charging mobile phones, laptops, and other devices.

Enjoy views of northern German farmland, forests, and small villages passing by. After some hours, you arrive in Berlin, where you can see the vibrant city and Alexanderplatz from the train windows.

After a short stop or train change in Berlin, the journey continues south through Bohemian Switzerland.

A few hours later, you pass through the historic city of Dresden. From here, the route follows the Elbe River through Saxon Switzerland and Bohemian Switzerland. You will see the Elbe on one side of the train and dramatic rock formations on the other, passing small villages and scenic Czech landscapes.

You arrive in Prague in the evening and check in at a carefully selected hotel located close to the station

1 overnight stay in Prague. Enjoy free time in one of the world’s most beautiful cities. The Vltava River flows through the city centre, creating a scenic backdrop for your visit.

Walk across Charles Bridge, explore Malá Strana, or visit the Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí).

The Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle complex in the world. It offers an impressive exterior, while the interior reveals a spectacular complex of palaces, churches, and gardens. Located on a hill above the city, it can be seen from most parts of Prague. In summer, the cathedral tower is open to visitors, offering panoramic views over the city.

Visit the Astronomical Clock, located on the Old Town Hall. Every hour between 09:00 and 21:00, the clock performs its famous mechanical show. When the hour strikes, two doors open and the twelve apostles appear, moving and greeting the crowd. The show ends with the crowing of a rooster and the closing of the doors.

The Old Town Hall is one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks and a popular wedding venue. Visitors can explore underground chambers and a chapel with historic murals. The building has also hosted famous guests, including Princess Diana and actor Tom Cruise.

The iconic bridge over the Vltava River is Charles Bridge, named after a Czech king. Decorated with statues, it is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. For a quieter experience, early morning walks are recommended before the crowds arrive.

Letná Park is ideal for a relaxing walk and offers panoramic views over Prague’s bridges and skyline.

Prague is a city rich in history, architecture, and cultural experiences. With two days here, you gain a strong impression of its beauty and charm.

2 overnight stays in Vienna. You will of course stay close to the railway station. The Austrian capital is a city rich in history, culture, and elegance, located on the banks of the Danube River and known as one of Europe’s most impressive cities.

The historic city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflects the grandeur of the imperial era. Explore the medieval core with its narrow, charming cobblestone streets.

A great way to experience Vienna while staying active is a kayaking trip on the Danube. Several rental spots are available along the river, and paddleboards can also be rented for 1–4 hours, with optional instruction from a guide.

Enjoy Vienna’s famous coffeehouse culture, relaxing walks, stunning viewpoints, and excellent restaurants. Try a classic Viennese coffee such as Melange, along with the famous Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel. Wander through the Old Town and enjoy historic buildings, parks, boutique streets, cafés, and restaurants.

Vienna is also known for its traditional wine taverns, where you can taste local wines paired with classic dishes such as Wiener Schnitzel, cheeses, and regional sausages.

Visit the imperial Hofburg Palace and explore the imperial apartments. For a small fee, you can access the Imperial Treasury and discover the rich history of Empress Sisi.

The Schönbrunn Palace with its beautiful gardens is one of Vienna’s most visited attractions. The park area features cafés, fountains, and perfectly maintained flowerbeds and lawns. Inside the palace, you can visit 40 of the 1,441 rooms, including one where Napoleon once stayed.

The train journey to Budapest starts from Vienna Central Station.

The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours, and along the way you will enjoy scenic landscapes and changing countryside views.

Refreshments are available for purchase on board.

Upon arrival in Budapest, you will stay at a carefully selected hotel within walking distance of the railway station.

2 overnight stays in Budapest. The Hungarian capital is full of history and vibrant city life. Look forward to seeing how the Danube River winds through the city, along with iconic landmarks such as the Parliament Building and Buda Castle.

Thermal baths are an essential part of life in Budapest. Both locals and visitors gather here to relax, socialize, and enjoy the healing waters. Visiting the baths is as natural as going to a café, where people chat, relax, and enjoy massages, saunas, or cold plunge pools.

Visit the Hospital in the Rock, a former wartime hospital built inside a cave system beneath Buda Castle. Today it is a museum offering guided tours of around one hour in English. The underground corridors create a unique and slightly eerie atmosphere, so it is not recommended for those with claustrophobia.

Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion offer stunning views over the Danube and the Parliament. The church also hosts concerts, and the surrounding area is ideal for relaxing in cafés or enjoying a break.

The Parliament Building is one of Budapest’s most famous landmarks, featuring impressive architecture and a nearly 100-meter-high dome. Guided tours are available in English, although they may be cancelled at short notice due to official events.

Public transport also takes you to Margaret Island, a peaceful car-free green oasis in the middle of the city. The island offers walking paths, a water tower, a musical fountain, and a small zoo. It is ideal for cycling or renting a go-kart or segway.

For a more active experience, hiking and outdoor activities are highly recommended in the Buda Hills. Trails lead through forests and up to spectacular viewpoints over the city. Visit János Hill and take the cable car to Elizabeth Lookout Tower, where you can enjoy one of the best panoramic views over Budapest.

The train journey from Budapest to Zagreb is operated as a direct EuroCity train. You begin your journey in the early afternoon and arrive in Zagreb approximately 6.5 hours later, around 22:00. You will of course stay in a hotel close to the railway station in Zagreb.

Along the way, you can enjoy beautiful landscapes and panoramic views as you cross the border between Hungary and Croatia. The route offers rolling countryside, green fields, and charming villages passing by your window.

2 overnight stays in Zagreb. The city, like Budapest, is divided into two main areas: Gornji Grad and Donji Grad. Gornji Grad is the oldest district and home to the city’s most important sights.

Tkalčićeva Street is one of the most famous streets in Gornji Grad, filled with cafés, restaurants, and shops. Its cobblestone streets create a charming and cosy atmosphere.

Zagreb offers many museums, green areas, and a vibrant cultural scene.

One of the tallest buildings in Croatia is located in Zagreb – the Zagreb Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece with an impressive façade decorated with sculptures and stonework. Inside, you can admire beautiful stained glass windows and religious art.

The central square in the lower town, Ban Jelačić Square, is where locals and visitors meet. It offers cafés with indoor and outdoor seating, and a central pavilion where Croatian goods are sold. Trams connect directly to the square, and tourist information is available nearby.

Close by is Dolac Market, where locals buy fresh fruit and vegetables. An indoor market offers meat and fish of high quality.

For an active experience, hiking in the Medvednica Mountains north of Zagreb is highly recommended. From the highest peak, you can enjoy panoramic views over the city.

Maksimir Park, the largest and oldest park in Zagreb, is ideal for a relaxing walk or a peaceful break in nature.

About 30 kilometres from Zagreb lies a small spa town known for its healing thermal baths, offering wellness treatments and complete relaxation.

A traditional dish from Zagreb is Štrukli, made from dough and fresh cheese. It can be baked or boiled and served in both sweet and savoury versions, and is available in most local restaurants.

After breakfast at the hotel, your journey continues to the famous coastal city of Rijeka, one of the most important port cities in the region. The trip is operated by direct regional train and takes just under 4 hours.

Along the way, you will enjoy beautiful views of the Croatian countryside as the train passes through hills, forests, and small villages. As you approach Rijeka, you will also be treated to stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

You will of course stay overnight at a hotel close to the railway station in Rijeka.

1 overnight stay in Rijeka. The city’s history dates back to antiquity and over time it has been ruled by many different powers, which is still visible in the cityscape today.

On the main pedestrian street, Korzo, you will find shops, cafés, and interesting architecture. The area is lively and popular with both locals and visitors.

Rijeka offers many notable attractions. For castle lovers, a visit to the medieval Trsat Castle is highly recommended. The castle is located on a hill, offering spectacular views over the city and the sea. It also hosts cultural events and exhibitions.

Visit the Peek & Poke Computer Museum, a small but fascinating museum with a collection of retro computers and electronics. It features one of the world’s largest collections of computers, gaming consoles, and hardware.

The city offers a wide range of cafés and restaurants where you can taste local specialties. Try the traditional stew Rižot, or the fried dough balls called Fritule, crispy on the outside and soft inside. Croatian white wines are also highly recommended, known for their richness and character.

Rijeka also features a beautiful seaside promenade, perfect for a relaxing walk along the coast. Enjoy the crystal-clear water, take a swim, or relax at one of the beach bars overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

After breakfast, the journey continues by direct train to the Slovenian capital, Ljubljana. The train ride takes just under 3 hours.

Along the way, you will enjoy beautiful views of the Croatian and Slovenian countryside as the train passes through mountains, forests, and charming villages. As you approach Ljubljana, you will also be rewarded with stunning scenery of Slovenia’s natural landscapes.

The journey is operated by a local intercity train. You will of course stay overnight in a hotel within walking distance of the railway station in Ljubljana.

With just one overnight stay in Ljubljana, a visit to Ljubljana Castle is highly recommended. The castle sits on a hill overlooking the city and surrounding mountains. Inside, you will find exhibitions and cultural displays. The courtyard is free to visit, while entry to the interior requires a small fee. The site offers something for both children and adults, and a cable car provides easy access up and down the hill. The castle is wheelchair accessible (except for the watchtower).

The city offers a unique atmosphere with a relaxed charm and a relatively low price level. The Old Town is well worth exploring, and the flowing Ljubljanica River runs through the heart of the city.

The central square, Prešeren Square, is surrounded by impressive buildings and cafés. It is a perfect place to take a break before continuing your exploration. The statue of Slovenian poet France Prešeren stands in the square, which is always lively with tourists and street vendors, creating a vibrant atmosphere. From here, you can also see the castle above the city.

Discover the unique Triple Bridge, an iconic architectural landmark connecting the central square with the Old Town through three parallel bridges.

For garden enthusiasts, the Botanical Garden is highly recommended. It features a wide variety of flowers and plants, including a bee observation hive behind a glass panel. The garden also includes a café and a greenhouse with tropical plants.

Visit Metelkova Mesto, a former military barracks now transformed into an alternative cultural centre filled with street art, music, and creative workshops.

In the city’s only skyscraper, you will find a café on the 9th floor serving traditional Potica, a walnut-filled pastry roll. Enjoy a coffee and dessert while admiring panoramic views of the city.

End your visit with a relaxing walk along the riverbanks, cross one of the many picturesque bridges, and enjoy views of the city skyline and colourful riverside houses. The river is also popular for boat trips.

The journey continues by direct EuroCity train to Salzburg. The train ride takes approximately 4.5 hours.

The route passes through the Alps, and the journey is operated with high comfort and the option to purchase food and refreshments on board.

Along the way, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the Slovenian and Austrian landscapes as the train passes through mountains, valleys, and charming villages. You will see green meadows, forests, and beautiful lakes.

In Salzburg, you will of course stay overnight in a hotel within walking distance of the railway station.

2 overnight stays in Salzburg. Salzburg is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities and is widely known as the city of music. The city is associated with Mozart, and the musical film The Sound of Music was filmed in Salzburg and surrounding areas. “The hills are alive” in Salzburg.

In the house where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born, there is a museum dedicated to his life and work. The exhibition includes musical instruments from his time, along with letters, documents, and stories from his early life.

The Old Town in Salzburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best-preserved historic city centres in Europe. It features Baroque and medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and lively squares. The main attraction is Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of the largest fully preserved medieval castles in Europe. The fortress is located on a hill above Salzburg and offers panoramic views over the city and the Alps. A visit with a private guide is recommended. The fortress includes museums, a restaurant, and a courtyard garden.

Salzburg hosts many concerts, opera performances, and classical music events throughout the year.

Local food and drink are an important part of the experience. Traditional Austrian dishes include Wiener Schnitzel, Knödel, Apfelstrudel, and Mozartkugel, a chocolate confection named after Mozart. A local speciality is Salzburger Nockerl, a sweet soufflé dessert that represents the three mountains around Salzburg.

St. Peter Abbey and Cemetery is one of the oldest monastic sites in the region, where both famous and ordinary people are buried. The cemetery is well preserved and is known as a filming location from The Sound of Music, where the von Trapp family hid from the Nazis.

Discover Hellbrunn Palace and Trick Fountains, a palace with gardens and playful water features. The site offers interactive experiences for visitors of all ages. Entry fee applies, but the visit is highly recommended.

Return journey by regional train to Munich. In Munich, you board a direct night train to Hamburg. A private sleeper compartment is included, along with breakfast and a washbasin on board.

The sleeper compartment is, of course, included in the price of the journey.

A night train is not only a practical way to travel, but also an opportunity to save both time and money by avoiding a hotel overnight stay. It also offers a unique experience of travelling through landscapes at night and waking up in a new destination.

After breakfast in your sleeper compartment on the night train, you arrive in Hamburg around 09:00. From here, you change to a train for the final leg of your journey back to Denmark.