Inside Story: What to do in Budapest
20/11/2025 · By Ian Holt
Visit Budapest with Great Rail Journeys and imperial history along the banks of the Danube, as well as elegant architecture, ruin bars and thermal spas.
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Connected by historical importance and breathtaking landmarks, the Grand Imperial Cities of Berlin, Prague, Vienna and Budapest take you to the heart of eastern Europe. These elegant capitals reveal a blend of musical heritage and unique history like few other places. With Great Rail Journeys, you can experience them through fascinating tours by rail. Alternatively, embark on a luxury river cruise from Budapest - the 'Pearl of the Danube' - into picturesque Bavaria. Sail through Slovakia's charming capital, Bratislava, and admire the views of Austria's scenic Wachau Valley.
Enjoy a discovery of the Adriatic countries of Slovenia, Croatia and Montenegro, uncovering natural wonders and idyllic towns in this ancient corner of Europe. Unwind beside pristine Lake Bled, stroll among the pretty streets of Slovenia's compact capital, Ljubljana, explore Croatia's breathtaking Plitvice Lakes and enchanting walled city of Dubrovnik before exploring Montenegro's stunning Bay of Kotor. In Germany, delve into Bavaria's fairytale forests and castles, enjoying celebrated food and drink. Add in spectacular Christmas markets in towns along the romantic Rhine and it's easy to see why Germany is an attractive destination all year round. Explore all of this and more by rail and river with Great Rail Journeys.
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Experience the heart of Europe on our escorted tours through
these incredible cities. With more than 50 years' experience in
creating wonderful holidays, you can discover tales of empire by
rail or river cruise. Journey through Germany, Austria, Hungary and
Czechia by train on our Grand Imperial Cities tour,
explore Vienna, Prague and Berlin on our Imperial
Cities by Rail holiday, enjoy our Imperial
Cities fly-rail trip or embark on our luxury Delights
of the Danube river cruise.







Embrace the storied past of grand empires on this bestselling rail holiday. Starting amid Vienna's glorious Habsburg palaces and ornate architecture, enjoy a strudel-making show at Schönbrunn Palace with a tasting, before savouring the delights of Hungary's dignified capital, Budapest. Absorb panoramic views of the illuminated Parliament and Buda...





Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Netherlands to Switzerland on a luxury river cruise. Sail through four countries, admiring stunning forested valleys, charming half-timbered towns and historic cities lining the picturesque banks of this incredible river. Marvel at the spectacular scenery of the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage...





Discover beautiful Bavaria on a GRJ All Inclusive tour of southern Germany's wonderful Romantic Road, featuring excursions to stunning locations, including the world-famous Neuschwanstein Castle - a fairytale fortress of piercing towers clinging to densely forested hills. On an exploration of one of Germany's most picturesque regions, ...





Enjoy a leisurely cruise through four countries and three capital cities, basking in beautiful river scenery all the way. Sail from the German town of Passau through the Austrian wine-growing region of the Wachau Valley, admiring picturesque Dürnstein and Melk Abbey enroute. After exploring imperial Vienna, the captivating Hungarian capital...





Embark on a scenic river cruise from Switzerland to Amsterdam, uncovering enchanting landscapes on the way, including the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge, adorned with stunning castles, lush forests and sprawling vineyards. Sail from Switzerland to the Netherlands, drifting by forested valleys and charming riverside villages while enjoying guided...





Become part of the sensational Rhine in Flames spectacle during this luxury seven-night river cruise, from Strasbourg to Cologne. Explore charming Rüdesheim before enjoying the stunning firework display illuminating the beautiful Rhine Valley and its fairytale castles. Our ship, the luxurious Amadeus Cara, is decorated to be a part of the...





Feel the spirit of Christmas on this cruise along the beautiful Rhine. Discovering Germany at the most magical time of the year we stop at traditional Christmas markets along the way, including Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz and Rüdesheim. Strolling through the stalls, admire the craftsmanship of local artisans and savour the flavours that define...





Embark on a voyage of discovery amid half-timbered towns, rolling mountains and gleaming rivers in some of Germany's most picturesque locations. Explore the medieval villages of Wernigerode, Quedlinburg and Goslar and journey to the peak of the Harz Mountains by historic narrow-gauge railway. Uncover the idyllic towns of Assmannshausen...





Enjoy a holiday in one of Europe's great regions, Germany's Rhine Valley - a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with idyllic towns and verdant landscapes. From a base in the picturesque town of Boppard, huddled beside Germany's Rhine River, set sail for a scenic cruise into the picturesque Rhine Gorge. Discover the area's legends while...





Travel through central Europe, visiting iconic landmarks from the time of vast empires. Uncover the timeless elegance of Vienna - the seat of the mighty Habsburg dynasty - and enjoy views of majestic palaces and grand, ornate buildings along the renowned Ringstrasse. Experience the medieval charm of the Czech capital, Prague, a magical...





Embark on an exploration of Poland on a rail journey from London to Warsaw. Stop off in Berlin to discover the German capital's main landmarks before arriving in medieval Wrocław, where timeless squares are lined with colourful buildings. Continuing to Kraków, uncover a city showcasing Polish history from its stunning Old Town to the emotive...





Discover the fascinating cities of Prague, Vienna and Budapest, encountering their rich heritage of art, history and culture while visiting world-class castles, palaces and museums. Fly into Prague to experience the medieval charm of the Czech capital, a magical city of exquisite architecture. Continue by train to Vienna and uncover the...