9 days in Vienna & Budapest Itinerary

The cultural, economic, and political center of the country, Vienna has developed from its early Celtic and Roman roots into a medieval and Baroque city, with an old town that was designated a World Heritage Site in 2001.

You'll discover tucked-away gems like Rathaus and Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisches Museum). Get some cultural insight at Schonbrunn Palace and Sisi Museum. The adventure continues: examine the collection at The Hofburg, learn about wildlife with up-close encounters at Schönbrunn Zoo, get to know the fascinating history of Schonbrunner Gardens, and explore the world behind art at Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien.

To see more things to do, photos, reviews, and other tourist information, read Vienna travel site.

Washington DC, USA to Vienna is an approximately 13.5-hour flight. Traveling from Washington DC to Vienna, you'll lose 6 hours due to the time zone difference. Plan for little chillier temperatures traveling from Washington DC in December, with highs in Vienna at 41°F and lows at 31°F. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 17th (Sat) so you can go by car to Budapest.

You might consider the city of Budapest, divided by the Danube River into two distinctive cities--Buda and Pest--to be essentially one large World Heritage Site.

Step off the beaten path and head to Buda Castle and Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum. Visit Fisherman's Bastion and Liberty Statue for their historical value. Next up on the itinerary: contemplate in the serene atmosphere at St. Stephen's Basilica (Szent Istvan Bazilika), see the interesting displays at House of Terror Museum, admire the landmark architecture of Dohány Street Synagogue, and step into the grandiose world of Vajdahunyad Castle (Vajdahunyadvar).

Use Inspirock's suggestions to plan your Budapest trip and find the best activities and attractions for your vacation.

Getting from Vienna to Budapest by car takes about 2.5 hours. Other options: fly; or take a train. Expect a daytime high around 40°F in December, and nighttime lows around 29°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 20th (Tue) to allow enough time to travel back home.