Highlights
Take the opportunity to try some of the worlds best beer with a trip to the heart of Bavaria
Explore Salzburg, the birthplace of classical music composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Travel to Budapest and find out how this breathtaking city was divided into two distinct parts
Embrace your romantic side while exploring the charming Slovakian capital of Bratislava
Let yourself be transported centuries back with a trip to Prague, The City of a Thousand Spires
Experience the scenic beauty and historic charm on the drive from Prague to Munich
Experience the scenic beauty and historic charm on the drive from Prague to Munich
Itinerary
Craving a European adventure that puts you in the driver’s seat? "The Best of Central Europe Self-Drive" tour is tailored for experienced travelers looking for flexibility and discovery. Over ten days, journey through Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, and the Czech Republic at your own pace, blending city sightseeing with Europe’s scenic countryside.
Starting and ending in Munich, the trip invites you to explore Bavaria’s charming capital—home to the legendary Oktoberfest. From here, drive to Salzburg, where Mozart’s legacy and Mirabell Gardens await. Cross into Austria to visit Melk on the Danube, then continue to Vienna, famed for its imperial palaces and lush parks.
A highlight of this self-guided tour is Budapest, where thermal baths and panoramic views from Gellert Hill leave lasting impressions. Bratislava’s city center offers a deep dive into Slovak history and culture before you head to Prague, where medieval streets, Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle beckon. Complete your loop back in Munich, savoring the freedom and diversity this journey offers.
The tour package includes hotel stays, car rental, select meals, and route guidance. Its standout feature is the autonomy it offers—allowing you to discover Central Europe’s treasures on your own terms, with the perfect blend of structure and spontaneity.
day 1 - Munich Arrival
Welcome to Germany! Upon arrival at the airport in Munich, you will pick up your rental car. The rest of the day will be free for you to spend at leisure. You can visit the city’s main attractions, including the tour at the Marienplatz Square, known for its famous clock tower (not included). Munich, the capital of the state of Bavaria, is home to the annual Oktoberfest Festival, which is celebrated from September through October every year.
Overnight in Munich
day 2 - Munich – Chiemsee – Berchtesgaden – Salzburg
Today after breakfast, you will depart Munich and travel to Salzburg. On the way, stop at Lake Chiemsee, the “Sea of Bavaria”. Continue your journey to explore the village of Berchtesgaden and Lake Konigssee, for a short stop at this idyllic place nestled in the majestic mountains. In the afternoon, you will arrive in Salzburg, the birthplace of the famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Head on a scenic stroll through the city, admire the gardens of Mirabell and take in the breathtaking views of the fortress of Salzburg, the Cathedral and the Getreidegasse.
Overnight in Salzburg
day 3 - Salzburg – Melk – Krems – Vienna
After a delicious breakfast, you will drive to Vienna. On your way, stop at the beautiful Lakes District of Salzburg. Continue to Melk and visit the Benedictine Abbey of Melk, the best-represented baroque monument of Austria. You can choose to head on a scenic boat trip (not included) along the most picturesque section of the Danube River. Continue your journey to Vienna, the grandiose capital of Austria.
Overnight in Vienna
day 4 - Vienna
In the morning after breakfast, you will explore Vienna at your own pace. You can choose to visit the Opera, the Hofburg Palace, the Heroes’ Gate, the Parliament, the Town Hall, and many more famous attractions with this day at leisure. In the evening, you can attend a wonderful gala dinner accompanied by live classical music (not included).
Overnight in Vienna
Optional: English Vienna Historic Center Guided Walking Tour (2.5 hrs):
Frequency: Daily
Departure time: 09:00 am
Duration: 2 hours 30 Minutes approx.
Have just a short time to explore Vienna? See the best of this grand, classical city in just a few hours on this time-saving, small-group walking tour. With an intimate group of just 15 people or fewer, you can look forward to discovering highlights such as St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, the Austrian Parliament Building, and much more. As you go, learn about the history, culture, and famous residents of Vienna from your guide.
Optional: Skip-the-Line Schonbrunn Palace Guided Tour and Vienna Historical City Tour (3.5 hrs):
Frequency: Daily
Departure time: 09:30 am
Duration: 3 hours 30 Minutes approx.
Drive along the Ringstrasse, a boulevard showcasing some of Vienna’s most stunning architecture. Hear the rich history behind Austria’s ‘Opera Ball’ as you pass the Vienna State Opera.You also see the neoclassical design of the Austrian Parliament, City Hall, and more. Witness the grandeur of the Hofburg Palace, where Marie Antoinette was born in 1755.After exploring the city by coach, hop out on foot to roam the lavish Schönbrunn Palace, where the Hapsburgs spent their summers. Skip the line and access the place without waiting time. Follow your guide through the interiors and discover the stories behind this UNESCO World Heritage Site.Afterward, soak up some free time to walk the gardens, or head to the cafe to purchase a coffee or strudel.
day 5 - Vienna – Budapest
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Today you can choose to visit the Schonbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Austrian imperial family. AfterwardAfterwards, continue your journey to Budapest, the capital of Hungary. The Danube River divides the city into two parts: “Buda”, the royal region of the city, and “Pest”. Take in the spectacular views from Budapest’s most impressive gazebo – Gellert Hill.
Overnight in Budapest
day 6 - Budapest
After breakfast, spend the day at leisure to explore Budapest. In the “Pest” area, you can visit the Heroes’ Square, the Opera House, and the Basilica of St. Stephen, along with many more fascinating highlights.
Overnight in Budapest
Optional: Budapest Private Full-Day City Sightseeing Tour (08 hrs):
Frequency: Daily
Departure time: 09:00 am
Duration: 8 hours approx.
Get to know Budapest the way you wish with a private guide and personalized itinerary on this full-day private city tour. Flexible tour options cater to different traveler needs—including a car tour, or a combination of a walking tour and public transport. Along the way, check off many key sights, including Heroes’ Square, Andrassy Avenue and Buda Castle—all with insightful
Optional: Budapest Tuk Tuk City Tour (2.5 hrs):
Frequency: Daily
Departure time: 09:00 am
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes approx.
Hop into a soft-top tuk-tuk with a driver-guide and explore Budapest by three wheels on this private tour. Most commonly found in Asia, tuk-tuks are perfect for navigating Budapest’s streets and discovering hidden places inaccessible to bigger vehicles. Breeze by the landmarks, stop for photos, and absorb the atmosphere on a flexible itinerary. Downtown pickup and drop-off included, with a choice of multiple departure times.
Optional: Budapest Danube River Sightseeing Night Cruise with Drinks (01 hr):
Frequency: Daily
Departure time: 07:00 pm
Duration: 01 hour approx.
View Budapest’s floodlit landmarks by boat on a Danube River evening cruise. Settle on the glass-enclosed vessel, and admire the cityscapes as you cruise by the UNESCO-listed riverbanks, glass in hand. Admire the Hungarian Parliament and Buda Castle district twinkling with lights, and sail under the illuminated Chain Bridge and other bridges. Your choice of Champagne, wine, beer, soda, or mineral water, Wi-Fi, and onboard film and commentary included.
day 7 - Budapest – Bratislava – Prague
In the morning after breakfast, get ready for an exciting day, as today you will dip your feet into three fascinating countries! Depart Budapest as you travel to Bratislava, the capital city of Slovakia. After a walk through the city center, you will continue your journey to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, and the “City of a Hundred Spires”.
Overnight in Prague
day 8 - Prague
Today after breakfast, you will explore Prague at your own pace. You can choose to visit the Powder Tower and the Old Square, known for its Astronomical Clock. You may also pass by Charles’s Bridge to uncover the breathtaking views of Prague Castle. Why not take a walk through the Golden Lane, a delightful neighborhood of tiny, medieval houses, or head on a tour of a private castle, where you will have lunch and indulge in a concert? You can choose your dining experience: dinner with a folklore show including a chance to meet the dancers and see a lesson, or dinner and a tour at one of Prague’s most famous brewery restaurants.
Overnight in Prague
Optional: Prague Guided Walking Tour and Cruise with Authentic Czech Lunch (06 hrs):
Frequency: Daily
Departure time: 10:00 am
Duration: 06 hours approx.
See Charles Bridge, the Lesser Town, Jewish Quarter, Old Town, and Prague Castle on a city walking tour of Prague. This full-day sightseeing excursion includes a traditional Czech lunch and a 1-hour boat cruise on the Vltava River. Hear insightful commentary from a professional guide along the way, and fit more in than you could if you were touring on your own.
Optional: Prague Boats 3-hours Crystal Dinner Cruise (03 hrs) (Min 02 Pax):
Frequency: Daily
Departure time: 07:00 pm
Duration: 03 hours approx.
Glide past nighttime Prague’s illuminated castles and cathedrals on a dinner cruise along the Vltava River. Pick your favorites from a hearty buffet lineup, and dine under a glass dome roof that allows panoramic views of Prague Castle, the National Theater, and the underside of Charles Bridge as the boat passes beneath it. A welcome glass of sparkling prosecco and live music set the scene for an elegant evening on the water.
day 9 - Prague – Munich
After breakfast, travel back from Prague to Munich by road and experience a journey through diverse landscapes and charming towns. Departing from Prague, you will traverse the Czech countryside, with its rolling hills, lush forests and picturesque villages. As you cross into Germany, enjoy the scenic beauty of Bavaria, with its serene landscapes and traditional architecture. The drive offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, culminating in your arrival in Munich, where you can explore its rich history and vibrant urban life.
Overnight in Munich
Optional: Bavarian Beer and Food Evening Tour in Munich (3.5 hrs):
Frequency: Daily
Departure time: 05:00 pm
Duration: 03 hours 30 minutes approx.
Get a dose of Bavaria's iconic beer culture with this food and beer tour in Munich. Home of Oktoberfest and a collection of famous beer halls and beer gardens, Bavaria's beautiful capital invites visitors from around the globe with its promise of fun and camaraderie. Partner with a savvy guide for an insider look at this tradition of imbibing. You’ll hit local haunts and enjoy Bavarian nibbles in the company of fellow beer aficionados.
day 10 - Munich –
In the morning after breakfast, drive to return your rental car at the Munich International Airport before checking in for your final flight home.

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