Hayley’s Incredible Central Europe Adventure

Hayley’s Incredible Central Europe Adventure

Marvellous Memories

Traveller: Hayley, Marvellous Escapes Client Sep 03, 2026 10 Minutes Read

Share:

URL has been copied successfully!

Our very own Marvellous Escapes Travel Designer, Hayley Norris, explored the very best Central Europe had to offer, embarking on a journey of a lifetime through Munich, Vienna and Budapest. 

She flew from London to Munich, where she spent the night before travelling to Vienna by rail. In Vienna, she spent the evening at Schönbrunn, went on a palace tour, had dinner and experienced a classical concert. Day 3 was a free day to explore Vienna before travelling to Budapest where she explored the city via the Hop On Hop Off bus.

We asked her all about her trip, highlighting her amazing experiences throughout, and here’s what she shared. 

What was your very first impression when you arrived in each city? 

Munich immediately felt welcoming, with its beautiful architecture and strong sense of Bavarian tradition. Vienna felt elegant and grand, with incredible buildings and history around every corner, while Budapest had a wonderful energy with its stunning views and mix of old and new. I had a lovely stroll along the Danube and walked across the Chain Bridge as soon as we had dropped the bags to the hotel. 

Which city stole your heart, and why?

Vienna probably stole my heart because it felt like stepping back in time. The beautiful palaces, coffee house culture, classical music and attention to detail made it a city where you could slow down and really immerse yourself in the atmosphere.

What was your favourite hotel, and what made it stand out?

My favourite hotel was Hotel A, Konzerthaus; it was the one that felt most connected to the destination. I always love hotels that combine comfort with character and are in a great location, allowing you to step outside and start exploring straight away. The very musical influenced theming and attentive staff made my stay very memorable. 

How did you find travelling between the three cities by rail?

I loved watching the scenery change as we travelled through different regions, from the Bavarian landscapes to Austria’s beautiful countryside and onwards towards Hungary. It really highlighted the joy of slow travel – taking the time to enjoy the journey, arriving feeling refreshed and ready to explore the next destination. It’s a perfect example of why I believe train travel adds so much to a holiday.

What was the best activity or excursion you experienced?

One of the absolute highlights of the trip was visiting Schonbrunn Palace and experiencing a classical concert in the evening. The palace was incredible, with its beautiful architecture, grand rooms and fascinating history, offering a real insight into Vienna’s imperial past and the lives of the Habsburg family.

What was the best meal, café, bar or local experience from the trip?

The traditional cafes were a real highlight, especially in Vienna. Sitting down with a coffee and a slice of cake, watching the world go by, felt like such an authentic part of the local culture rather than just a sightseeing stop.

What would you include as a “must-do” experience in Munich, Vienna and Budapest?

Munich: Explore the historic centre and enjoy the lively atmosphere – Try some good Beer.

Vienna: Visit Schonbrunn Palace, enjoy a traditional coffee house and experience the city’s incredible music and culture.

Budapest: Take in the views from Fisherman’s Bastion, Strolls along the Danube and enjoy the stunning evening views from the Chain Bridge.

Who would you recommend this journey to, and why?

I would recommend this journey to anyone who loves combining culture, history and great scenery with the enjoyment of travelling by train. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to experience multiple destinations without rushing, with the journey itself becoming part of the adventure.

What advice would you give clients before travelling on this route?

Take your time and don’t try to fit everything in. Each city has its own personality, so allow yourself time to wander, enjoy local cafes, discover hidden gems and experience the atmosphere rather than just ticking off the main sights.

What was your personal highlight of the whole trip?

My personal highlight was the overall experience of travelling through three incredible European cities by rail. Seeing the landscapes change between destinations and arriving directly into the heart of each city reminded me why I love train travel so much.

Finally… if you could sum up the whole trip in just three words, what would they be?

Authentic. Inspiring. Unforgettable.

Would you like to embark on a rail journey like Hayley?

Our Central Europe rail holiday packages include everything you need to enjoy the trip of a lifetime. From Berlin and Budapest to Florence and Vienna, there’s really no end to the destinations you can explore through our team. 

If you are looking for something similar to what Hayley did, we recommend exploring our example itineraries such as Continental Capitals, Highlights of Central Europe, Heart of Europe by rail, or Castles and Culture of Central Europe. All of these packages can be tailored to suit your interests. 

To book, speak to us on 020 3764 2445 or contact us via our enquiries form. We can’t wait to hear about your bespoke rail holiday plans.