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 Schonbrunner Gardens. Get some cultural insight at Schonbrunn Palace and Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien. There's lots more to do: learn more about the world around you at Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisches Museum), get to know the resident critters at Schönbrunn Zoo, see the interesting displays at Sisi Museum, and wander the streets of Historic Center of Vienna.

For ratings and other tourist information, refer to the Vienna trip planner.

Washington DC, USA to Vienna is an approximately 13.5-hour flight. Due to the time zone difference, you'll lose 6 hours traveling from Washington DC to Vienna. Traveling from Washington DC in December, things will get little chillier in Vienna: highs are around 41°F and lows about 31°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 17th (Sat) so you can drive 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 Vajdahunyad Castle (Vajdahunyadvar). 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 steep yourself in history at Citadel.

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.