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Explore 5 capital cities in Central Europe

The Route

5 Capital Cities Route

Experience the energy and glamour of five Central European capitals with this train journey. All you need is a 4-day Pass and your bags — no seat reservations required. 

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a feast for the eyes. From its Art Nouveau buildings to the bridges spanning the Vltava River, travellers will always find something to catch their eye on a visit to the Czech Republic's storied capital. 

 

What to see and do:
 
  • Catch a performance of classical music at St. Nicholas Church in Prague's Old Town square

 

  • Sample a local speciality at the farmer's market held four times per week in Jiřího z Poděbrad square

 

  • Ride the historic Tram 42, which operates on a hop-on, hop-off model, to reach all of Prague's highlights in style

Travel time: 4 hours, no reservations required

Vienna, Austria

Aerial shot of Vienna, Austria

Vienna is occasionally referred to as the capital of culture, and quite rightly so. Known for music, literature, theater and cuisine, Vienna has a moderate climate, an exciting art scene and dance festivals – and don’t forget the famous Vienna coffee houses. 

 

What to see and do:
 
  • Marvel at the grandeur of the Hofburg and Belvedere palaces, with their expansive gardens

 

  • If visiting in December, the lights, sounds and street food of the Christmas markets are not to be missed

 

  • The Wiener Prater amusement park's star attraction is a classical ferris wheel, offering views over the picturesque surroundings

Travel time: 1 hour, no reservations required

Bratislava, Slovakia

A sunny day in Bratislava

Bratislava is home to a seemingly endless array of inspiring castles, soaring churches and thought-provoking museums. Choose a few to explore on a visit to the Slovakian capital. 

 

What to see and do:
 
  • Relax at the cafes of Bratislava's Old Town, always abuzz with tourists and locals alike

 

  • Check out Bratislava Castle, offering unbeaten views over the city and also home to the Museum of History

 

  • Speaking of views, the UFO Restaurant offers a unique and otherworldly location to view the sunset over the city

Travel time: 2.5 hours, no reservations required

Budapest, Hungary

An aerial shot of Budapest and the Danube

The Danube bisects Budapest, offering stunning views on both sides of the legendary river.That the city is split down the middle seems rather appropriate, since it is filled with contradictions. There is Roman architecture mixed with Gothic churches, a Baroque museum among touches of Art Nouveau.

 

What to see and do:

 

  • Shop for produce and enjoy traditional Hungarian cuisine in the Central Market Hall

 

  • Stop by one of the lavish and historic coffee houses and watch the world pass by

 

  • Savour the view of Budapest from the imposing Buda Castle

Travel time: 8.5 hours, no reservations required

Ljubljana, Slovenia

A garden in Zagreb, Croatia

 

 

Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, pairs the liveliness of a bigger city with the charm of smaller towns. Simply put, it is a perfect place to wrap up your train adventure across Central Europe. 

 

 

What to see and do:

 

  • Ljubljana is known for its extensive green spaces, such as the lush Tivoli Park, the largest park in the city
 
  • Sample some of Slovenia's best culinary offerings with a visit to the "Open Kitchen" market, where chefs prepare food outdoors in a scenic square
 
  • Ride the Ljubljana Castle Funicular up to the Castle's reaches above the city centre 

Feeling inspired? With Interrail, you can:

Tour Europe by train with 1 Pass
Experience the highlights and hidden gems 
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