Prague, Vienna and Budapest sit close enough together to combine by train, and they remain better value than most of Western Europe. Croatia adds the Adriatic coast, with ferry and bus timing that deserves its own plan.

These itineraries cover where to stay, which sights need advance tickets, and how to link the capitals into one route without wasting days on travel.

Prague, Vienna and Budapest can be linked by train in a week, with two to three nights in each. All three are strongest in spring and autumn, and winter brings Christmas markets at their best.

Croatia works as a separate trip: Dubrovnik and Split with ferries to the islands, best in late spring or early fall when the water is warm and the crowds are thinner.

Part of Europe Destinations & Itineraries guides. Browse the other topics there to keep planning.