Experience the very best the destination has to offer at an incredible price: must-see attractions and sightseeing, comfortable accommodation, and optional activities to best suit your travel style and interests.
This tour is either fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader or guided by experienced local guides at each destination. If your itinerary includes local guides, a new guide will meet you in each location, and any internal flights will be unescorted. For further details, please refer to the Essential Information for this tour.
This package does not include international airfares from your home airport. Any flights within your tour itinerary are included. If you would like to add international airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available after your booking is made.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
✓ Experience the imperial charm of Budapest,Vienna and Prague from grand palaces to timeless cultural treasures
✓ Daily breakfast & 1 lunch
✓ 10 nights of 4-star accommodation
✓ Walking tours in each city with local guides
✓ Fully escorted by professional English-speaking tour managers
✓ All transportation as per the itinerary in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
✓ Sightseeing and entrance fees included as per itinerary
Discover three iconic capitals in one journey—Budapest, Vienna and Prague. Enjoy guided tours, scenic river cruising, imperial palaces, medieval castles and ample free time to explore at your own pace. A perfect blend of culture, history and unforgettable European charm.
Welcome to Budapest! Upon arrival, meet your local representative who will assist you before transferring you to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, taking your first glimpse of this beautiful city at your own pace.
Special Information
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal may offer the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
This morning, take part in a half-day guided sightseeing tour of Budapest. Wander up to Castle Hill for sweeping views of Pest and the Danube, admire the grandeur of Buda Castle, and gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich history and architecture.
In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re drawn to museums, cafés or neighborhood strolls, your guide will be on hand with recommendations to match your interests.
Inspiring Highlights
Depart your hotel for a scenic boat trip along the Danube, flowing gracefully between the hills of Buda and Pest. Relax as you glide past some of Budapest’s most striking landmarks, taking in the city from a unique perspective, before enjoying a leisurely group lunch. Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Today is yours to enjoy Budapest at your own pace. Wander through the historic streets, browse local markets, or visit iconic sites such as Heroes’ Square, the Royal Palace, or the beautiful St. Stephen’s Basilica. For a relaxing experience, soak in one of the city’s famous thermal baths or enjoy a riverside café along the Danube. Your guide will be available with suggestions to help you make the most of your day in this vibrant city.
After breakfast, we will travel from Budapest to Vienna and arrive ready to explore Austria’s imperial capital. In the afternoon, take some time to settle into your hotel and get acquainted with your surroundings. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Belvedere Park, soaking in the city’s elegant architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour of Vienna, taking in the city’s most iconic landmarks. Admire the summer residence of Empress Sisi, explore the historic Hofburg Palace—the former imperial winter residence and site of the Vienna Congress—and stroll along the grand Ringstraße, home to the Vienna State Opera, the Votive Church, and other magnificent buildings.
Inspiring Highlights
After breakfast, depart Vienna and travel to Prague, arriving in time to settle into your hotel. The afternoon is yours to relax and explore at your own pace. Take a gentle stroll through the charming streets, discover local cafés, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this historic city.
Special Information
Today, enjoy a half-day guided tour of Prague, one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. Begin with a walk across the iconic Charles Bridge, taking in its intricately crafted statues and towers while enjoying sweeping views of the Vltava River. Explore the historic Old Town Square, home to one of Eastern Europe’s most beautiful clock towers, and admire the city’s remarkable Baroque architecture and charming streets.
In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to further explore Prague at your own pace. Wander through quaint lanes, browse local shops, relax at a café, or visit a museum—the guide will be on hand to provide recommendations based on your interests.
Inspiring Highlights
Today, enjoy a half-day guided excursion to Český Šternberk Castle, a remarkable Bohemian fortress dating back to the mid-thirteenth century. Perched on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside, the castle offers stunning panoramic views and a fascinating insight into the region’s history, architecture, and noble heritage.
After returning to Prague, the evening is at your leisure to relax, explore the city’s charming streets, or enjoy a meal at one of its many inviting cafés or restaurants.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Today is yours to explore Prague at your own pace. Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets, browse local shops, or visit landmarks such as Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, or the Lennon Wall. For a more relaxed day, enjoy a café by the Vltava River or take in the city’s beautiful squares.
After breakfast, your journey through the imperial cities of Budapest, Vienna, and Prague comes to an end. At the appropriate time, depart the hotel for your onward travel plans, taking with you lasting memories of grand palaces, historic streets, and vibrant culture.
Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience.
Special Information
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Pre/Post Tour Accommodation
Pre and post accommodation is not available for this tour.
Upgrades
Not available
Airport Transfers
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.
If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.
If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.
Bedding Configuration
Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can not guarantee your request will be available at all properties.
Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:
1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional ₹104,500.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement.
You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller’s Hub
During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.
Triple Share
Not available
Payment Information
This product requires a $99 deposit per person and full payment within 48 hours to secure your booking.
Once you have created your booking you will be directed to your invoice to choose your preferred payment method.
Cooling Off Period
A refund will be available within the 7-day cooling-off period unless otherwise restricted by the purchased product.
Where 'last minute' bookings are available within 71 days of departure, the cooling-off period does not apply and bookings are immediately non-refundable.
Terms and conditions
Please review our terms and conditions here:
https://www.inspiringvacations.com/au/page/terms-and-conditions
Trip Suitability
Itinerary Changes
Please note that as part of our commitment to constantly improving our passenger experience, there may be itinerary changes between the time of booking and when you travel. These changes are always made with your experience in mind and will be clearly communicated in advance if they affect your booking.
Trusted Travel Partner Tour
Your chosen tour will be operated by one of our trusted travel partners. These are meticulously crafted tours designed by established travel partners we know and trust. These tours offer a unique and exciting way to explore the world, packed with incredible sights and experiences.
Visas & Entry Requirements
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here:
https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information
You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.
We need your passport information to get everything ready for your tour so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our tours. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-tour cancellations and how your chosen insurance policy may cover such circumstances, so please keep this in mind when choosing your provider.
We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international tours, you will be asked by your tour leader for your travel insurance details if they were not already added to your Traveller Hub account pre-departure.
If you have credit card insurance your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide may require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details before arriving in-country.
Before you depart, you will be asked to submit your Travel Insurance details through the booking holder's Traveller Hub account through the Inspiring Vacations website. This is to ensure that we have this information readily available should we ever need it.
Health & Wellness
All travellers need to be in good physical health to participate fully on this tour. Our group tours are designed to immerse you in incredible sights and activities, often involving walking tours and self-exploration. To ensure you can fully embrace every moment, we recommend a moderate level of fitness for all of our tours.
When selecting your tour please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that in the assessment of our Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a tour without refund.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements and we would be more than happy to assist you.
Important Information for Customers with Mobility Limitations
We want to ensure everyone has a fantastic and inclusive experience on our tours. If you require the use of a mobility aid, such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair, please disclose this information at the time of booking.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire group, our tours are designed with a specific itinerary in mind. This may involve moderate walking, uneven terrain, or stairs. While some itinerary adjustments may not be possible, we'll do our best to find alternative solutions within the planned activities whenever possible.
Open communication helps us ensure your tour is a perfect fit and it allows your local guide or tour leader to assist you where possible.
Information for CPAP Users
If you use a CPAP machine, please let us know at the time of booking. Some portions of our itinerary, like overnight cruises or camping tours, may have limited access to power outlets. In such cases, we recommend travelling with portable battery packs.
Certain activities, like overnight journeys on board smaller vessels, may not be suitable for CPAP use due to space limitations or noise concerns. We can discuss these potential limitations upfront and help you make informed decisions about your tour.
Please ensure that you check the voltage used throughout the countries you are travelling to and if it will be compatible with your machines. For example, Japan runs on 100 volts vs Australia at 220-240 volts, meaning a voltage converter might be required.
Documentation
Tour documentation is typically emailed to the lead passenger or your travel agent between 14-30 days before your scheduled departure. This will include your final hotel list.
Official Travel Advice
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend referring to the official travel advisory website of your home country for the latest updates on your chosen destination. These websites provide valuable information on:
Here are some helpful links to get you started:
In the unlikely event of a situation that could potentially disrupt your tour, we want to assure you of the following:
By staying informed and working together, we can ensure a fantastic travel experience for you. We will post our own travel updates to our website here.
Starting Point
Your starting hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book pre-tour accommodation independently, we suggest you do this only once you have received your final hotel list for your tour. If you would like to book something sooner, we recommend that you book using a flexible rate that can be cancelled through your chosen third-party provider without penalty.
Travellers will arrive at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. If arriving before standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available as there are no scheduled activities on day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.
Note: if you need to apply for a tourist visa before departure, we recommend using the details of the suggested hotel on the tour itinerary if you wish to fulfil this before the release of your final tour documentation. Please refer to our visa section for more information on whether or not a visa is required for your destination.
Arrival Details
Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the airport to the hotel will be comfortable and hassle-free.
To make your way to your hotel from the airport, there are various connections by express train or limousine bus. The airport information desks can provide helpful advice, too.
Optional Airport Transfers - Transfer Portal
Depending on the package purchased, you may have the option to add airport transfers to your booking and you can do so through your Traveller Hub account. We partner with an online marketplace where travellers can compare and select the transfer of their choice.
Inspiring Vacations acts as an agent on behalf of our transfer service partner and any service is delivered by the provider. Inspiring Vacations cannot be held liable for any loss resulting from the transfer service provided. It is the customer's responsibility to ensure any transfer booked meets the requirements of any other travel arrangements. Likewise, your tour leader or any of our on-ground representatives cannot be held responsible for the service of your transfer nor are they in a position to assist with amending your reservation. Any transfer booking is separate from any other booking with Inspiring Vacations, regardless of whether purchased with regards to the same travel journey.
When you make your transfer service booking, you will receive a confirmation email and this will include your meeting instructions, as well as direct contact details. Please ensure you print and bring this with you as you will need to ensure you can make direct contact with your transfer service provider.
Welcome Meeting Instructions
You are welcome to arrive at any time on Day 1 of your tour and the day is at your leisure. Upon checking in at the hotel, you will receive a letter containing meeting instructions for the following morning. If you do not automatically receive these details, please ask for them. Generally, you must meet at the lobby the following morning (on the day that sightseeing commences) as early as 0815 am local time. Please ensure that you are on time.
In Case of Emergency
Although we strive to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise during travel. If any issues arise during your tour, it's essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative. This ensures they can take immediate action to address the problem and mitigate any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.
We understand that there may be instances where your tour leader or local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction. In such cases, we encourage you to request that the tour leader or local representative escalate the matter to their direct manager for further assistance.
When your final tour documentation is released, this will include an emergency contact for our local travel partner while you are on tour. If this is not included in your documentation, you will receive this on arrival during your welcome meeting.
Pace
This trip category is 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: This trip offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Group Size
Escorted Style
Fully Escorted
This tour is fully escorted by multiple dedicated tour leaders who will accompany you throughout the tour. You will be met by a new tour leader Vienna who will accompany you to Prague for the remainder of the trip.
Tour Type
Our Classic Tours offer unbeatable value for budget-minded travellers who still want to experience the most out of their trip. Imagine a traditional coach tour packed with inclusions like iconic sightseeing, a dedicated tour leader, comfortable accommodations, coach transportation, and even some meals. The group size of our Classic Tours range does vary so make sure you refer to the group size information in the Trip Notes.
Exclusions
Travelling in a group
Travelling in a group means you will experience both the pleasures and perhaps at times, some of the frustrations of travelling with people you don’t know. The good news is you all have at least one thing in common: a love of travel and exploration. Your fellow travellers will probably come from different parts of the world, and fall into different age groups. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group—patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the overall benefit of the group.
We kindly ask that when you are requested to be at a place at a certain time that you respect this request from your tour leader or local guide. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip before departure.
Community Guidelines
Inspiring Vacations does not tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams (Inspiring Vacations Tour Leaders and local expert guides) or local communities.
Any behavior that prevents your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines, may result in Inspiring Vacations removing you from the tour.
If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader immediately. Alternatively, when you are on-tour and require immediate support you can contact our Customer Support team and select the “On-Tour” option when listening to the options.
Connect with fellow travellers on Facebook
During your booking journey, you might have received an email inviting you to join a special Facebook group. This vibrant online community is exclusively for Inspiring Vacations travellers wanting to connect, share, and inspire one another. Joining this group unlocks a wealth of information and connections. Swap travel tips, chat with other members who have been where you’re going, and even meet others interested in travelling together for your next adventure.
We also regularly host insightful webinars featuring travel experts who share their tips and tricks for navigating your destination and maximising your itinerary. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and get even more excited about your upcoming tour!
Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader vs. Local Guide
While both tour leaders and local guides enrich your travel experience, their roles differ. Tour leaders, who often accompany you for the entire tour, handle logistics, ensure smooth sailing of the itinerary, and act as your point of contact for any concerns. They might provide general information about destinations, but in-depth historical or cultural knowledge often comes from local guides. Local guides, frequently native to the area, lead tours at specific sites or attractions, offering a deeper understanding of the local history, art, or way of life.
Coach Transportation
The size of your coach will comfortably accommodate your group. There's usually room for some extra seats, ensuring a relaxing journey. Your luggage will be safely stored either underneath the coach or in a dedicated trailer.
While the exact coach style may vary depending on the departure, all our coaches offer comfortable seating. Keep in mind that Wi-Fi and charging outlets might not always be available. To stay connected and avoid dead batteries, we recommend fully charging your devices beforehand or bringing a portable charger.
For longer journeys, we'll make sure to include ample restroom breaks along the way, so you can freshen up and recharge at your convenience, as facilities are not on-board the coach.
Itinerary Changes
Sometimes, unexpected things can happen, like unpredictable weather or higher-than-usual crowds at attractions. In these situations, your tour leader might need to adjust the itinerary slightly to improve your overall experience.
This flexibility ensures you get the most out of your tour! Your tour leader will always keep you informed of any changes and explain the reasoning behind them. Remember, when travelling with a group, sometimes going with the flow can lead to even more amazing experiences.
Staying Connected
If you want to stay connected and access reliable internet while on tour, there are a few options available. It is possible to purchase a virtual sim and we recommend contacting your mobile phone provider for assistance. You can add a roaming data plan to your existing phone contract is another option, albeit an expensive one. You will need to arrange this before departure.
We also recommend downloading WhatsApp and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour, and of course, after the tour if you’d like to stay in touch. Our tour leaders may also use this as a means of communicating essential tour information with you, as well as if you choose to add-on transfers to your booking, as your driver may use this to confirm arrangements with you.
Getting Around
This tour covers Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic, travelling between cities by private, air-conditioned coach. For longer coach journeys, there will be occasional stops to stretch your legs, use the facilities, and purchase refreshments if needed.
During the guided city tours and excursions, you will be walking on cobblestone streets, uneven pavements, and inclines. Comfortable shoes and a moderate level of fitness are recommended.
Travellers are responsible for handling their own luggage when checking in and out of hotels, so please ensure your luggage is manageable for these transfers.
This itinerary combines guided sightseeing with free time to explore independently, so travellers should be comfortable navigating city streets and managing their own time during leisure periods.
Hotel Ratings
Star ratings can differ between countries, reflecting diverse standards and amenities. To give you the most accurate picture possible, we don't just rely on a single source for hotel ratings. We go beyond by researching various trusted travel websites like Tripadvisor and Booking.com. This allows us to analyse a wider range of genuine customer reviews and experiences, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the hotel's typical star rating.
This means you can book with confidence, knowing the hotel has a strong track record of satisfied guests.
Accommodation Details
Accommodation on this tour is 4-star, carefully selected to ensure your comfort and enjoyment throughout Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic. Our hotels reflect the best available options suited to our style of travel, offering a balance of convenience, comfort, and local charm.
Hotel locations are generally central or within easy reach of the main attractions, or in easy reach of public transport, allowing you to make the most of your free time while still enjoying a peaceful environment. European star ratings can differ from those you may be accustomed to, but all properties have been chosen for quality, service, and overall guest experience.
This combination of well-located, comfortable hotels provides a welcoming base after busy days of sightseeing, giving you time to relax and recharge for the next adventure.
Packing Essentials
Clothing
Weather Protection
Optional but Useful
This packing list is designed to keep you comfortable and prepared while exploring the imperial cities and enjoying both guided tours and free time.
Climate
Travelling through Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic offers a temperate continental climate, with seasonal variations to consider throughout the year.
Summer (June to August): Warm and pleasant, with daytime temperatures often ranging from 25–30°C (mid-70s to mid-80s°F). Evenings can be cooler, so a light jumper or jacket is recommended. This is also the busiest time for tourism, particularly in city centres and popular landmarks.
Spring (March to May) & Autumn (September to November): Mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 15–25°C (mid-50s to mid-70s°F). Rain showers are possible, so a light rain jacket or umbrella is advised. Spring brings blooming parks and gardens, while autumn offers beautiful fall foliage.
Currency and ATMs
In Hungary, the local currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). ATMs are widely available in cities, towns, and tourist areas, accepting major international credit and debit cards. Many shops, restaurants, and hotels in urban centres also accept card payments, but it’s useful to carry some cash for smaller purchases, market stalls, or locations where card acceptance may be limited.
In Austria and the Czech Republic, the currencies are the Euro (EUR) and Czech Koruna (CZK) respectively. ATMs and card facilities are generally reliable in cities and popular tourist areas. Smaller towns, local markets, and some historic sites may require cash payments, so carrying small denominations is recommended.
It’s a good idea to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage while abroad. Having a mix of cash and cards ensures smooth transactions and flexibility during your journey.
Food and Allergies
Travelling through Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic offers a rich variety of culinary experiences. In Hungary, sample goulash, lángos (fried dough), and chimney cakes. Austria delights with Wiener Schnitzel, strudel, and Sachertorte, while the Czech Republic is known for hearty dishes such as roast pork with dumplings and traditional pastries like trdelník. These dishes reflect the diverse flavours and cultural heritage of Central Europe.
While travelling with Inspiring Vacations, you’ll enjoy a mix of iconic sightseeing and the chance to explore local cuisine. Many meals are included, but not all, giving you the flexibility to choose where, what, and with whom to eat. If you have dietary requirements or food allergies, please notify our Customer Support Team before departure. Your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide can suggest restaurants and local specialties to try. For travellers with specific allergies, your tour leader will do their best to advise on main ingredients, but it remains your responsibility to avoid consuming any problematic foods.
Local Customs
In Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic, greetings are typically polite and reserved, often involving a handshake. In restaurants and cafés, table manners are similar to Western standards, though it’s customary to say “please” and “thank you” in the local language where possible.
When visiting churches, palaces, and historic sites, dress modestly and show respect, as these places often hold cultural and religious significance. Tipping is generally expected in restaurants and for tour services, though amounts vary by country.
Understanding and respecting local customs will enrich your travel experience, fostering positive interactions with locals and allowing you to fully appreciate the history, traditions, and daily life of these imperial cities.
Tipping
Tipping in Europe is not compulsory, however, they are much appreciated, especially as a reward if guests feel someone has delivered good service. Tips and gratuities are not included for this package and are discretionary. If you wish to reward good service, the suggested amounts are:
Peak Travel Times
Peak travel times in Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic generally coincide with the European summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warmest and cities are at their busiest. During this period, popular attractions, guided tours, and hotels can be crowded, and prices may be higher.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal for travellers seeking milder weather, fewer crowds, and more comfortable sightseeing conditions.
Planning your trip according to these seasonal trends will help you make the most of your time, enjoy sightseeing comfortably, and navigate the cities with ease.
Safety and Security
Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your own government's advice for the most up-to-date travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip.
Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities listed on the itinerary, however, you'll have some free time to explore on your own. While your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide will assist you as best they can with your requests and the options available outside your itinerary, please note Inspiring Vacations makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running the activity. Please use your judgement when selecting an activity in your free time.
Please also note that your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic are generally safe for travellers, though common-sense precautions are advised. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded tourist areas, markets, and on public transport.
To stay safe, avoid displaying valuables, remain aware of your surroundings, and be cautious in busy areas. Use reputable transportation services, especially at night, and take care when walking alone in unfamiliar or poorly lit streets.
By staying vigilant and respecting local customs, you can enjoy your journey through these imperial cities with confidence and peace of mind.
Apps to Download
Some apps can make your trip through Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic easier and more enjoyable. Google Translate is useful for reading signs, menus, and other text in local languages, while Google Maps with offline maps downloaded helps you navigate cities without relying on Wi-Fi.
If you plan to use public transport, consider downloading local transit apps: in Budapest, BKK FUTÁR provides real-time updates for buses, trams, and the metro; in Vienna, WienMobil is helpful for planning routes on public transport; in Prague, PID Lítačka offers ticketing and transit information.
For taxis or ride-hailing, Uber is widely available in Vienna and Prague, and Bolt is a good option in Budapest.
We also recommend downloading WhatsApp before you leave, as it’s a convenient way to communicate with fellow travellers and your tour leader during the journey.
Post-Tour Feedback
Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a link to a post-purchase survey, which is your opportunity to share your feedback with us on your booking experience and interactions with our Sales and Customer Success teams. This feedback is invaluable to ensure that we are servicing our customers to the best of our ability.
Furthermore, towards the end of your travels and while you are in your destination, you will receive an email from us with a link to an in-depth trip survey. Your tour leader or local guide may also provide you with a QR code that you can scan using your device to access our survey straight away. It is very important to us that we hear from our customers to ensure that we continue to meet and exceed customers' expectations, so this will be your opportunity to let us know how your trip has been, what has worked well and potentially what could be improved.
Finishing Point
Your finishing hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book additional post-tour accommodation, please do so once you have the final hotel list. We recommend booking a flexible rate that can be changed or cancelled without penalty should there be any unforeseen changes to your booking.
Travellers will depart at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. Check-out time is generally from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost payable directly.
Departure Details
Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the hotel to the airport will be comfortable and hassle-free.
As an added service, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub. We recommend you wait until you receive your final documentation to book transfers as your start and end hotels will only be confirmed at this point. Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.
This is a Land Only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
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