The road to Budapest: from Vienna to Budapest

Summary itinerary Vienna's joining point, Hotel Mozart has a lot of charm and is over 100 years old. It is located within easy walking distance of the efficient U-Bahn.

Days 1-3 Vienna/ Bratislava: Spend free time enjoying a typical Viennese operetta or relaxing in the beautiful parks. Stroll into the city centre, along the Ringstrasse and past the Hofburg Palace to see the architectural splendour of Austria's capital. There's plenty of time for some local delicacies like sacher torte or a wiener wurstel.Take a day trip to Bratislava to discover the history of this utterly captivating Slovakian capital.

Days 4-5 Cesky Krumlov: With its cobblestone alleys and beautiful old buildings, this picturesque hamlet is straight out of a fairytale. Explore the surrounding countryside on a bicycle then settle in the medieval town square in time for sunset.

Days 6-8 Prague: The City of a Hundred Spires never fails to charm with its gorgeous architecture, crooked streets and buzzing nightlife. Walk through the Old Town for a tantalising glimpse of Bohemia - there’s ample time to explore, so wander the courtyards of Prague Castle and be sure to investigate the city's thriving jazz scene.

Day 9 Teplice: This quiet little village offers a look at rural Czech life. Pass the afternoon contemplating the weird and wonderful sandstone formations in the rock forest. For the adventurous, climb steep stairs and ladders to the spectacular lookout point.

Days 10-11 Krakow: Cross the border into Poland and stop for a sombre visit to the Auschwitz and Birkenau museums before continuing on to Krakow. Steeped in artistic traditions, this city has much to offer. Stop by St Mary's Church to see the Gothic altar and listen for the bugle call - every hour on the hour.

Days 12-13 Tatra Mountains: Limber up for some trekking in the High Tatras, where the crisp mountain air and stunning views make for an unforgettable hike. Enjoy local hospitality at the alpine resort of Tatranska Lomnica, staying in a quaint, family-owned pension.

Days 14-15 Budapest: The last stop is a city of two halves - literally. Buda, the west bank, features rolling hills while Pest, on the east bank, has a grid-like layout. Linking the two is the Chain Bridge, a towering monument of light at night. With museums, galleries and thermal baths scattered all over the city, Budapest is sure to entertain.