Dr Charlotte Russell, Clinical Psychologist & Founder

This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you book through the links provided this blog will receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Three cities and countries, seven days, and a journey that moves through history, culture, and quiet moments of connection. This Central Europe itinerary blends the Bavarian charm of Munich, the refined elegance of Vienna, and the layered beauty of Budapest. Each with its own rhythm, its own story.

It’s a fast-paced route, but with moments of downtime. Two nights in Munich, two in Vienna, and three in Budapest offer just enough time to get a feel for each place — to wander, to pause, to notice. I took this full itinerary in September 2025, and I found it interesting to experience three cities on one trip. Whilst they are easily connected by train, each city has a very clear identity, and yet there are elements that are shared. This made this trip a fascinating adventure!

Munich

Arrival day: Touch down in Munich and do whatever you need to settle into your accommodation and prepare yourself for a busy trip. Tomorrow, you will start early with a full day of activities.

Day 1: Morning at Nymphenburg Palace

We started our Central Europe journey with a gentle morning at Schloss Nymphenburg, a baroque palace nestled just outside Munich’s city centre. It’s grand, yes — with sweeping gardens and ornate halls — but more manageable than Vienna’s Schönbrunn, which we deliberately skipped later in the trip. One palace felt enough, and Nymphenburg offered the right balance: beautiful, but not overwhelming.

Nymphenburg Palace was the summer residence of the Bavarian royal family and stands as a grand symbol of the Wittelsbach dynasty’s power, taste, and legacy in Munich. All I can say is ‘What a summer house!?’.

After wandering through the mirrored rooms and admiring the ceiling frescoes, we took a break at the Palm House Café in the palace grounds. It’s tucked inside a historic greenhouse, and the atmosphere is calm and leafy — perfect for a quiet coffee and a slice of cake before continuing an epic day of exploring. I went for Apfelkuchen (German apple cake) which is special in Germany, particularly in Autumn when the apples are harvested.

Day 1: Afternoon at Olympic Park

After a slow morning at Nymphenburg, we headed north to Olympiapark — the sprawling site of the 1972 Summer Olympics. It’s a striking space, with sweeping glass architecture and wide open lawns that invite you to pause, wander, or simply sit and take it all in.

You can climb Olympiaberg for panoramic views over the city, with the Alps faintly visible on clear days. I unfortunately didn’t make it up due to recovering from a sprained ankle. If you do let me know whether it was worth the climb!

 

Day 1: Evening exploring Bavarian culture

We were lucky enough to spend our second night in Munich at Oktoberfest — the world’s most famous beer festival and a whirlwind of music, laughter, and long wooden tables filled with people from all over Europe. Thanks to friends in Munich, we managed to get table reservations in one of the tents, and the atmosphere was unforgettable: warm, welcoming, and joyfully chaotic in the best way.

Entry to Oktoberfest is actually free. You don’t need a ticket to wander the grounds or soak up the atmosphere. Table reservations in the large beer tents can be tricky to secure in advance, especially in the evenings. However, the good news is that many tents keep some tables unreserved for spontaneous visitors, especially earlier in the day.

But while Oktoberfest gets all the attention, it’s far from the only way to experience Bavarian beer culture. Throughout the year, there are smaller, more local festivals that offer just as much charm — often with fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace. You can explore alternative beer festivals in Bavaria here.

Even outside of festival season, Munich’s beer halls are full of life. Whether you’re sipping a Helles at a centuries-old tavern or chatting with locals at a communal table, the spirit of Bavarian hospitality is easy to find.

Though part of Germany today, Bavaria was once its own kingdom, and that independent spirit still lingers. From the dialect to the dress, the traditions to the taverns, Bavaria feels proudly distinct. You sense it at Oktoberfest, of course, but also in the everyday warmth of beer halls and local festivals. The culture here is lived, shared, and generously offered to anyone who pulls up a bench.

If you have more time to spare, there are fantastic day trip options from Munich including other towns in the Bavaria region.

Where to stay in Munich

We were lucky enough to stay with friends during our time in Munich — a lovely way to ease into the trip with local tips and warm hospitality. But if you’re booking a hotel, we’d recommend the Premier Inn München City Centre. It’s conveniently located for exploring the city, with easy access from the airport and just a short walk to the main train station, ideal for your onward journey to Vienna.

Day 2: Onward Travel to Vienna

After a lively night at Oktoberfest (or any of Munich’s beer halls), we’d recommend a slow start to Day 2. Don’t book your train too early — give yourself time to rest, hydrate, and enjoy a leisurely breakfast.

That said, thanks to the Bavarian Purity Law (Reinheitsgebot), which limits beer ingredients to just water, hops, and barley, you may feel surprisingly fresh. It’s not magic, but it helps.

The train from Munich to Vienna takes around 4 hours and runs frequently throughout the day. We opted for a mid-morning departure, which gave us time to pack calmly and grab a final coffee before heading to the station. If you’re staying in the Premier Inn, it’s an easy walk and the journey itself is scenic, passing through rolling countryside and small towns as you cross into Austria.

Tip: Book your tickets in advance and consider reserving a seat if you’re travelling during peak times, especially during Oktoberfest.

Vienna

Day 2: Evening in Vienna

After the train journey from Munich, we checked into our accommodation and eased into Vienna with a slower, more sophisticated evening. The city invites that kind of pace; elegant streets, soft lighting, and a quiet grandeur that’s best appreciated on foot. We wandered without a strict plan, letting the architecture and atmosphere guide us.

For dinner, we chose Leto Restuarant, a Mediterranean spot with warm service and beautifully plated dishes. It was the perfect contrast to the beer halls of Munich — lighter, quieter, and full of flavour. A lovely way to settle into Vienna’s rhythm.

Day 3: Morning Walking Tour of Vienna

We started our day with a free walking tour— a brilliant way to get oriented and soak up Vienna’s layered history. The meeting point was Albertinaplatz, right in the heart of the city, and just a short stroll from Joseph Brot — a sleek, modern bakery where we grabbed coffee and a pastry beforehand. Their pastries are worth the detour, and it’s a calm spot to gather your thoughts before diving into the city’s past.

The tour itself took us through Vienna’s imperial streets, past the Hofburg Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and quieter corners filled with stories. It was a great mix of architecture, anecdotes, and cultural context — enough to feel grounded, without being overwhelming.

The tour lasted around 2 hours and 30 minutes so was a great way to orient ourselves, and learn about the history of this city.

Day 3: Lunch in Vienna — Schnitzel

After the walking tour, we were ready for something hearty. In Vienna, that means schnitzel. Traditionally made with veal (Wiener Schnitzel), it’s one of Austria’s most iconic dishes. We opted for the pork version, which was delicious.

Our guide recommended sharing, and we were glad we listened — the portions are generous, with crisp golden coating and a side of potato salad or fries. We ate at Hopferl, a cosy, no-frills spot tucked away near the city centre. It’s popular with locals and has a relaxed, welcoming feel. That said, schnitzel is easy to find across Vienna — from traditional taverns to more modern takes — so you won’t go hungry.

Day 3: Afternoon at the Freud Museum and Café Landtmann

In the afternoon, we visited the Sigmund Freud Museum — a quiet, reflective space housed in Freud’s former apartment and practice. It’s a must for anyone with an interest in psychology, offering a glimpse into the personal and professional life of one of the field’s most influential figures. You can read more about my full guide to visiting the Freud Museum here.

 

Afterwards, we walked to Café Landtmann, one of Vienna’s classic coffee houses and a favourite of Freud himself. It’s elegant but unpretentious, with polished wood interiors and a menu that invites lingering. We ordered coffee and cake, of course, a ritual in Vienna.

I went for the Feine Torte — light, layered, and just sweet enough — while Mr Travel Psychologist chose the classic Sachertorte, rich with chocolate and tradition. Both felt perfectly at home in the elegant hush of Café Landtmann.

Vienna’s coffee culture is deeply rooted in history. During the Habsburg era, many people lived with hardship and deprivation, and coffee houses became vital communal spaces: places to stay warm, read newspapers, debate ideas, and feel part of something. That legacy lives on. Today, cafés like Landtmann still carry that quiet dignity — offering not just caffeine, but connection, comfort, and a sense of belonging.

If you have more time, there are so many things to do in Vienna. You could visit Schönbrunn Palace before leaving Vienna — even just a couple of hours to stroll the gardens or tour the main rooms. It’s easy to catch a later train to Budapest, and the palace offers a final dose of imperial splendour before heading east.

Where to Stay in Vienna

We stayed at the Levante Rathaus Apartments, and it was one of those places that instantly felt like home. Set in a quiet, leafy neighbourhood just outside the busy centre, it offered the perfect balance of calm and convenience. A Viennese couple we met at Oktoberfest were genuinely impressed by our choice — always a good sign.

The rooms include small kitchens, which made it feel more like having our own little apartment than a hotel stay. After days of eating out, it was lovely to have the option to make tea, prep snacks, or just enjoy a slow morning in pyjamas. If you’re looking for somewhere stylish, spacious, and well-located, we’d happily recommend it.

Day 4: Travel to Budapest

We left Vienna mid-morning and boarded the train to Budapest — a smooth, scenic journey that takes around 2.5 hours. It’s worth booking a direct route and reserving seats in advance, especially if you’re travelling during weekends or holidays. The train glides through countryside and small towns, gradually shifting from Austria’s neat elegance to Hungary’s more textured charm.

Budapest

Day 4: Arrival in Budapest

After the calm elegance of Vienna — which felt especially serene during our midweek visit — arriving in Budapest was like stepping into a city with its pulse turned up. Budapest felt inherently more dynamic, with a raw beauty and a sense of possibility in the air.

We’d booked a table at Liz and Chain — a rooftop bar overlooking the Danube — and it was the perfect way to arrive. As the sun set and the city lights flickered on, we sipped cocktails and watched boats glide past below. It was glamorous, yes, but also welcoming — a celebration of being somewhere new, somewhere alive.

Day 5: Morning in the Castle District

Most visitors stay on the Pest side of Budapest — as we did — where the streets are lively, the cafés plentiful, and the architecture grand. But for a quieter, more historic start to the day, we crossed the river to Buda, home to the city’s Castle District and sweeping views over the Danube.

We walked across the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks, and took the funicular up to the castle. It’s a short ride — yes, technically only 45 seconds — but don’t let the people at the bottom talk you into skipping it and buying a bus ticket. It’s charming, historic, and part of the experience.

At the top, the atmosphere shifts: cobbled streets, pastel buildings, and a sense of calm that contrasts beautifully with Pest’s buzz. It’s a lovely place to wander, with plenty of spots to pause and take in the view.

While you’re up in the Castle District, don’t miss Fisherman’s Bastion — a fairytale-like terrace with panoramic views over the Danube and Parliament building. It’s one of Budapest’s most photographed spots, and for good reason.

We also bought a combined ticket that included entry to the Maria Magdolna Tower — a lesser-known gem that not many visitors seemed to explore. The climb is steep (lots of steps!), but the views from the top are absolutely worth it. It felt peaceful, almost secret, and gave us a whole new perspective on the city.

Day 5: Lunch at Café Muse

After a morning of climbing towers and soaking in views, we headed back to Pest for lunch — and found a little gem in Café Muse. Set in a stylish, light-filled space, it was the kind of place that instantly lifts your mood. The brunch options were fantastic: fresh, beautifully presented, and full of flavour.

It felt like a modern contrast to the historic morning, with a relaxed vibe and friendly service. Whether you’re craving eggs, avocado toast, or something sweet, it’s a lovely spot to pause and refuel before diving back into the city.

Day 5: Afternoon at Mandala Spa

By mid-afternoon, we were ready to slow down — and Mandala Spa was the perfect choice. I’d picked it based on a personal recommendation from a friend, and it turned out to be exactly what we needed. Many of the reviews for Budapest’s historic thermal baths mention that they can be crowded and not always the cleanest, so we opted for something more peaceful and restorative.

We booked this VIP spa package with 4pm entry, which gave us time to unwind after lunch and arrive without rushing. The spa itself is calm and intimate, with warm pools, saunas, and soft lighting that invites you to truly relax. It felt like a gentle reset — a quiet moment to absorb the day and recharge before heading into the evening.

Day 5: Dinner at Sophie Restaurant

For dinner, we stayed close to our accommodation and ate at Sophie Restaurant — a stylish, welcoming spot that felt like the perfect end to a restorative day. I had the lasagne, which was rich and comforting without being heavy, and the live piano music added a lovely touch of elegance to the evening.

It’s a popular place, and for good reason — so we’d recommend booking ahead, especially if you’re visiting over the weekend. The atmosphere was warm and relaxed, with just the right balance of sophistication and ease.

 

Day 6: A slower morning with coffee

We started our final full day in Budapest with coffee at Corto — a small, stylish café tucked just around the corner from our accommodation. It’s the kind of place that feels instantly local, with warm lighting, friendly staff, and a quiet buzz of morning conversation.

I ordered the butter croissant, and I don’t say this lightly: it was the best I’ve ever had. And I’ve had a lot of croissants. Flaky, golden, and just the right amount of buttery richness — the kind that makes you pause mid-bite and consider ordering a second.

After breakfast, we took a slow walk along the Danube towards the Central Market Hall. It’s a beautiful stretch, with views across to Buda and plenty of space to wander. Along the way, we saw the historic yellow trams gliding past — a quintessential part of Budapest’s streetscape. Tram Line 2, in particular, runs right along the river and is often called one of the most scenic tram routes in Europe.

Day 6: Central Market Hall

Mid-morning, we made our way to Central Market Hall — one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks and a feast for the senses. Housed in a grand 19th-century building with a striking steel frame and colourful Zsolnay tiles, it’s as much an architectural experience as a culinary one. Opened in 1897, the market was part of a city-wide push to modernise food distribution, and it still buzzes with that same energy today.

Inside, there are hundreds of stalls — selling everything from fresh produce and meats to spices, souvenirs, and street food. We bought paprika (of course) and some local honey, both beautifully packaged and perfect for bringing a taste of Hungary home. It’s easy to spend an hour or two here, browsing, tasting, and soaking up the atmosphere.

Upstairs, you’ll find a bustling food court serving classic Hungarian dishes — everything from goulash and lángos to stuffed cabbage and sausages. We chose a sausage dish, which came piled high with potatoes and pickles. It was huge — definitely a sharing portion — and we were glad we’d split it.

In fact, it was so substantial that I managed to break two wooden forks trying to tackle it. The forks were really no match for that pickle. A strange but amusing moment — and a gentle reminder that organised travellers might want to pack their own travel cutlery!

Yes, it’s busy and undeniably touristy, but the market is a quintessential Budapest experience. The clatter of trays, the smell of paprika and grilled meats, the mix of locals and visitors — it all adds to the atmosphere. If you’re looking for a hearty, authentic lunch in a lively setting, this is a great place to start.

 

Day 6: Visit to the Ruin Bars

In the early evening, we explored one of Budapest’s most unique and evocative experiences — the ruin bars. These bars began as grassroots efforts to reclaim derelict buildings in the city’s Jewish Quarter, transforming abandoned courtyards and crumbling interiors into creative, communal spaces. Locals hung fairy lights, salvaged furniture, and bits of art — anything to make the spaces usable, welcoming, alive.

There’s something deeply psychological about it. Hungary’s history is marked by hardship and oppression, and these bars feel like a reclamation. As a clinical psychologist, I couldn’t help but see the parallel: transformation doesn’t happen all at once. It’s slow, layered, often improvised. Just like healing, these spaces evolved bit by bit, until they became something beautiful.

Now, they’re vibrant and popular — places to gather, drink, and marvel at how life can return to forgotten corners. Whether you stop by Szimpla Kert or wander into one of the smaller, lesser-known spots, it’s an experience that stays with you.

Day 6: A Special Meal at Retek Bisztro

To end our trip on a high note, we booked dinner at Retek Bisztro — a Hungarian restaurant with a modern twist, just a short walk from where we were staying. The interior strikes a perfect balance: cosy and intimate, yet refined enough to feel like a special occasion. The service was impeccable, and the gentle notes of a live piano player added a touch of magic to the evening.

They offer a set menu that’s ideal for sampling traditional Hungarian dishes. I had beef goulash to start, followed by chicken paprikash, and finished with Somlói sponge cake — a rich, layered dessert that felt like a celebration in itself. It was the kind of meal that invites you to linger, reflect, and toast to the journey.

This place is popular and for good reason. Make sure you book in advance!

Day 7: The journey home

Today you’ll be heading back to the airport at some point. Thankfully public transport is excellent in Budapest and the airport itself was a pleasant surprise. It’s won several international awards for service and design, and we found the experience smooth and stress-free.

Where to Stay in Budapest

We stayed at Opera Residence, and while the accommodation itself is fairly basic, the location was absolutely fantastic. Just steps from the Hungarian State Opera House, it put us right in the heart of Pest — surrounded by excellent coffee shops, restaurants, and easy access to public transport.

It was the kind of place that made everything feel walkable. We could pop out for breakfast at Corto, stroll to ruin bars, and be back in minutes. For the price we paid, it was totally worth it — a simple, comfortable base in one of Budapest’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.

Final Thoughts

This is a busy trip — full of movement, conversation, and layered experiences. It’s not the kind of journey that leaves you feeling rested or revitalised. But it will stay with you. I found myself reflecting on it long after I got home — replaying moments, revisiting ideas, and feeling quietly changed by it all.

There was something energising about the pace: the deep conversations in Munich, the quiet elegance of Vienna, the psychological resonance of Freud’s world, and the vibrant pulse of Budapest — a city shaped by hardship, now defiantly alive.

This itinerary invites you to engage, to feel, to think. It’s a trip that makes you feel curious, connected, and alive. And sometimes, that’s exactly what we need.

 

Trip Booking Summary

Nights 1–2: Munich

 

Nights 3–4: Vienna

 

Nights 5–7: Budapest