Current as of: December 5, 2023 - 05:21
Prague to Budapest Ride Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Private Group Adventures
- Destination: Austria, Czech Republic (Czechia), Hungary, Slovakia
- Programmes: Cycling
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Activity Level:
3 out of 7 - Moderate
- 11 Days: Flight Inclusive
- 11 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 16+
- Trip Code: MVZ
- Carbon Footprint: 179.9kg CO2e
Trip Overview
Cycle through the heart of Europe taking in four historic capitals
Ride through four countries: the Czech Republic (Czechia), Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. This trip combines peaceful country lanes with well-marked cycle paths, including sections along the Danube, to showcase the best of Central Europe. Our itinerary meanders past castles, through rustic villages, along rivers and past lakes as we discover the former territories of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Highlights include Unesco sites, national parks and the wine-making region of Moravia. Exploring the gentle countryside, rural towns and historic capitals by bike is a great way to sample the changing atmosphere and individual flavours of each region.
Did you know you can travel by train to this trip? Find out more here
At a Glance
- 10 nights in comfortable three- and four-star hotels
- Eight days cycling with full vehicle support
- Group normally 4 to 14, plus local leader, assistant guide and support driver. Minimum age: 16
- Travel by private minibus
- Option to travel by train to your adventure
Highlights
- Cycle along rivers, through forests and national parks
- Discover four history-steeped countries
- Enjoy Central European culture, cuisines, wines and beers
Is This Trip for You?
This trip is classified Road and Activity Level 3 (Moderate).
The route is undulating and requires a reasonable level of fitness. There is full vehicle support, minimising the amount you need to carry, and giving the option of a rest should you need it. However, there are sections (approximately 10 percent) where the vehicle cannot follow the group, for instance along narrow forest cycle paths or through vineyards. We aim to use quiet roads and cycle paths where possible, but sometimes we need to pass busy sections to reach the quiet roads on the other side. The optional cycling tour of Vienna is on some busy city centre roads and cycle paths.
- Average daily distance: 34mi (56km)
- Number of cycling days: Eight
- Vehicle support: 90 percent
- Terrain and route: 100 percent paved/easy gravel roads
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 14
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Prague
- End City: Budapest
Land Only Itinerary
Fly to Prague; optional sightseeing
After arriving in Prague, capital of the Czech Republic, a short walking tour is included in the evening today as we head out for dinner. If you wish to explore this beautiful city in more detail we recommend booking an extra night pre-tour, or requesting an earlier arrival time.
Your leader can also point out highlights on free maps from the hotel for those interested in visiting the city’s top attractions such as Charles Bridge, Prague Castle or Wenceslas Square. Prague is also the perfect place to just wander through the alleys of the pretty Old Town, sample world-renowned Czech beer or try their hearty local cuisine.
Hotel Lunik (or similar)
Start Prague
The tour starts in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, in the late afternoon. A short walking tour is included in the evening as we head out for dinner. If you wish to explore this beautiful city in more detail, we recommend booking an extra night pre-tour.
If you’re interested in visiting the top city attractions, such as Charles Bridge, Prague Castle or Wenceslas Square, your leader can also point out highlights on free maps from the hotel. Prague is also the perfect place to just wander; cut through the alleys of the pretty Old Town, sample Czech beer or try the hearty local cuisine.
Accommodation: Hotel Lunik (or similar)
Transfer to Ceske Budejovice; cycle to Cesky Krumlov by the Vltava River
We transfer 93mi (150km) to Ceske Budejovice to collect our bikes. Our first day is a relatively short one to warm us up, as we cycle to Cesky Krumlov on the Vltava River. A feature of the old town here is the narrow, crooked streets and the gothic, Renaissance and baroque architecture. There may be time to visit Cesky Krumlov Castle, one of the largest in Central Europe, which overlooks the town from a strategic position on a horseshoe bend in the river.
Accommodation: Penzion Prelat (or similar)
Ride through forests and hills to the medieval spa town of Trebon
Leaving Cesky Krumlov behind, we head into the hilly countryside. Our route flattens as we enter the Trebon Basin, a lowland area of forests, meadows and lakes. Our destination is Trebon, a medieval town of Renaissance architecture, now also known as a spa town. There is also a neo-gothic tomb in an English-style park plus cafes and restaurants in which to relax and enjoy a hearty meal. Many local dishes here make use of Trebon carp. Transfer (approximately 45 minutes) to our hotel in Jindrichuv Hradec.
Accommodation: Hotel Concertino (or similar)
Cycle through the Trebon Basin along the Greenways Trail to the Unesco town of Telc
Today we pass several human-made lakes as we follow sections of the Greenways Trail, part of a network of hiking and cycling trails in the Czech Republic (Czechia) and Austria. Our ride finishes at the Renaissance town of Telc, registered on the Unesco Cultural Heritage List in 1992. From here we transfer (approximately one hour) to Znojmo on the banks of the river Dyje, often seen as the gateway to the wine-making area of South Moravia.
Accommodation: Hotel Lahofer (or similar)
Cycle past vineyards to Mikulov
Today’s ride aims to discover the rich fertile flatland of the Moravia region, home to an abundance of vineyards and wine cellars. We cycle until Mikulov, a real gem directly on the border with Lower Austria. Worth visiting are the pretty castle, town square and surrounding architecture. In the evening we go wine tasting. Overnight in Mikulov.
Accommodation: Hotel Galant (or similar)
Ride into Austria through the grounds of Lednice, the Versailles of southern Moravia; continue to Poysdorf and transfer to Vienna
Today we enter Austria through the Unesco grounds of Lednice, known as the Versailles of southern Moravia; we continue to the wine-producing town of Poysdorf, from where we transfer the final 29mi (47km) to Vienna. Once checked into our accommodation, the city centre is a short metro ride away or approximately a 20-minute walk. The Austrian capital is a hub for architecture, history and culture with a lively cafe and bar scene and great restaurants.
Accommodation: Hotel Boltzmann (or similar)
Free day in Vienna; morning optional guided bike ride around the city
Today is free to explore the former imperial city of Vienna. The old centre is bursting with cultural, historic and architectural wonders as it was the former HQ of the Hapsburg Empire. The city is brimming with sights, including the majestic Schoenbrunn Palace (summer palace of the Hapsburgs), the popular Kunsthistoriches Museum and Hundertwasser Hause plus countless breath-taking churches, cathedrals and concert halls.
No visit to Vienna is complete without a visit to one of the many famous cafes for coffee and cake or soaking up all the culture this city has to offer in one of the many parks or beer gardens. An optional guided bike ride around the city is available for those who prefer a more active morning.
Accommodation: Hotel Boltzmann (or similar)
Follow the Danube Cycle Path to Donauauen National Park; into Slovakia and on to Bratislava
We join the Danube Cycle Path, following a quiet route out of the city and into Donauauen National Park, past the red-tiled turrets of Castle Orth and the chateau at Eckartsau. We cross the border at the town of Hainburg and enter Slovakia, winding our way towards the capital Bratislava, strategically positioned along the Danube.
Accommodation: Hotel Falkensteiner (or similar)
Morning sightseeing in Bratislava; cycle to the Slovakia-Hungary border and continue through Halaszi to Hedervar; transfer to Esztergom
In the morning, we have time to explore Bratislava, wandering through the narrow cobbled streets of the old town. Occupying a spot on the Danube, it has previously been an important economic, cultural and political centre of Central Europe. The compact old town is packed with beautiful 18th-century buildings and sights, including St Michael’s Gate and the medieval city walls.
We then continue our ride, crossing the border into Hungary, cycling through peaceful rolling countryside before arriving in Hedervar, a village of around 2,000 inhabitants. From here, we transfer to our hotel in the pretty town of Esztergom.
Accommodation: Panzio Bazilika (or similar)
Follow the Danube beneath Visegrad Castle, ride through rolling hills to Vac; transfer to Budapest; free time for sightseeing
We depart Esztergom mid-morning and begin the ride with a 2.5mi (4km) section of cycle path alongside the Danube before joining the road. Our route meanders over rolling countryside and through rural villages until we reach Vac, where our cycling ends. From here we transfer approximately 45 minutes to the Hungarian capital of Budapest, home to hot springs and delicious Magyar cuisine.
The remainder of the day is free to explore this grand city situated majestically along the Danube. Budapest is a history and architecture lover’s dream. It offers an eclectic mix of attractions, including the Szechenyi Baths, the largest medicinal bath in Europe; Fisherman’s Bastion, for breath-taking views of the Danube and Parliament building; the House of Terror Museum, where you can learn about the city’s dark Communist period; or simply enjoy a glass of excellent Hungarian wine in a local cafe.
Accommodation: Hotel Benczur or Hotel Verdi
Fly to London.
End Budapest
The trip ends this morning after breakfast. If you wish to explore this fascinating city more, we recommend booking an extra night post-tour. Please ask your sales representative for more details.
Ascents, descents and distances
All ascents, descents and distances listed above have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. Please note, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these trips notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.
Accommodation
Hotels & Pensions
The accommodation listed below are the standard hotels used. However, there may be some departures where groups stay at similar hotels of the same standard and quality.
We use a mix of three- and four-star hotels and small pensions during our ride, chosen for comfort and convenience. Our city hotels may be a short walk or ride from the city centre. All hotels have en suite facilities and free wifi. Some have spas and wellness centres.
- Prague: Hotel Lunik
- Cesky Krumlov: Penzion Prelat
- Jindrichuv Hradec: Hotel Concertino
- Znojmo: Hotel Lahofer
- Mikulov: Hotel Galant
- Vienna: Hotel Boltzmann
- Bratislava: Hotel Falkensteiner
- Esztergom: Panzio Bazilika
- Budapest: Hotel Benczur or Hotel Verdi
Single supplements are available upon request.
Single supplement from £ 320
Food & Drink
All breakfasts are included.
The cuisines of Central European countries possess many similarities yet retain their own gastronomic traditions and dishes. Hearty soups, noodles, dumplings made from wheat or potato, and meat dishes consisting of pork, beef and game are regional staples. You will also find a large variety of sausages and vegetables featuring prominently in many dishes. Dairy products, including cheeses and creams, are heavily used here too.
- Breakfasts during the trip are usually continental with a choice of eggs.
- Lunch is the main meal of the day in Central Europe; we usually stop en route for a hot lunch at a restaurant or cafe.
- Desserts are plentiful and varied with each country having their own unique sweets and cakes. Czech beer is renowned for its quality and taste, while many of the countries visited on the trip also offer good wines and local spirits.
Vegetarians and other dietary requirements can be catered for, but there may not be the same variety as you have at home. Please advise us upon booking.
The leader will accompany the group to a restaurant each evening but will provide recommendations if you wish to explore separately.
Water is provided for each day cycling and can be topped up regularly throughout, so please ensure you take your own water bottle(s).
Transport
On this trip we use an air-conditioned minibus for all transfers.
Weather & Seasonality
The weather here is comparatively stable, particularly during mid-summer. Temperatures are usually between 15C-25C (54F-77F), but can be hotter at the height of summer, and rainfall although relatively low is possible throughout the year.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Hotel Lunik, Londýnská 609/50, 120 00 Praha 2-Vinohrady
Phone: +420 224 253 974
Airport: Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 40 minutes’ drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
You can reach the start hotel relatively easily using taxis or public transport. You can catch the 119 bus to Dejvická Metro Station and take Line A to Náměstí Míru. Hotel Lunik is about a two-minute walk away. Alternatively, there is an airport taxi service for a fixed rate of around 590 Czech koruna (US$25). Upon arrival at the hotel, make staff aware you are part of an Exodus group. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to Budapest Airport (BUD) for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Prague
Location end: Budapest
What To Take
Essential Equipment
- Long trousers
- Waterproof jacket
- A couple of warm layers
- Sunscreen
- Refillable water bottle
- Sandals
Water included
Plastic bottles are a big issue in many countries where recycling isn’t yet widely available; they often end up in landfill or get burned. Both processes are harmful to the environment and we would like to reduce our impact here. For your trip, we provide an alternative to single-use plastic bottles to reduce the plastic used. This means that safe drinking water will be available throughout; all you need to do is bring a bottle to refill along the way. Please add this to your packing list.
Optional Equipment
- Panniers: These are available to use during the trip or you can bring your own if you wish; our local operators will try to fit them on your bicycle
- Swimsuit: Some hotels have spa and wellness centres
Equipment Hire
Included standard bike
The standard bikes for this trip are Leader Fox Sumava and Point.
We will take your height at the time of booking to reserve equipment. If you have a preferred bike size, please request when booking..
Bringing your own bike
If you’d prefer to bring your own bike, please advise us at the time of booking and you will receive a discount on the price of the trip. However, you will be responsible for any extra baggage charges; assembling and disassembling your bike; and bringing along spare parts and any tools specific to it. You should also ensure you have adequate insurance to cover loss, damage or theft.
Accessories and clothing
Bringing equipment from home
You’re welcome to bring your own equipment, such as SPD pedals or clipless pedals, your own saddle (excluding the seat post), or gel saddle cover for the hire bikes. Your leader will help you fit these when bikes are distributed.
Helmets
Helmets are mandatory for everyone on a guided Exodus cycling trip. You must bring your own as, following best safety practice, they are not available for hire.
Cycling clothing
For all cycling trips we recommend:
- Padded cycling shorts: For destinations with more modest cultures, we also recommend loose ‘over-shorts’ for riding or rest stops
- Eyewear: Either sunglasses or eye protection with clear lenses to protect the eyes while riding
- Cycling gloves: Especially for riding off-road or on rugged surfaces
- Cycling shoes: Cycling is more efficient with stiff-soled shoes. We don’t recommend open-toed shoes or sandals
- Small close-fitting backpack or bum bag (fanny pack): To keep spare clothing or essential items to hand during the ride
Practical Information
Passport
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Visa
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter the Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary or Slovakia. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through. Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
- Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au
- Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations
- United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
- USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html
Vaccinations and Health
Czech Republic (Czechia)
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Austria
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Hungary
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Slovakia
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
If you’re a UK citizen, please note that your UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) are still valid and offer the same cover as the Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) in the EU. This gives you medical care at a reduced cost, and in some cases for free, in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. Once your EHIC has expired, replace it with a GHIC.
Local Time
Czech Republic (Czechia)'s time zone: Europe/Prague (UTC +01:00)
Austria's time zone: Europe/Vienna (UTC +01:00)
Hungary's time zone: Europe/Budapest (UTC +01:00)
Slovakia's time zone: Europe/Bratislava (UTC +01:00)
Electricity
Czech Republic (Czechia)'s electricity: Plug types C (two round pins) and E (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Austria's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins) and F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Hungary's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins) and F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Slovakia's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins) and F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Czech Republic (Czechia)'s currency: Czech koruna (CZK)
Austria's currency: Euros (EUR)
Hungary's currency: Hungarian forint (HUF)
Slovakia's currency: Euro (EUR)
ATM Availability
In every town you can withdraw the local currency from a cash machine (ATM), but we do recommend you bring some spending money in cash from home. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
Meals in the capital cities will be more expensive than in the rural towns depending on the establishment. Please see below for a rough guide for meal prices in each country:
- Czech Republic: Approximately 500 Czech koruna (US$20) per meal
- Slovakia: Approximately €10 per meal
- Austria: Approximately €15‐€20 per meal
- Hungary: Approximately 4,000 Hungarian forint (US$9.50) per meal
Tipping
Although optional, a tip for the leader at the end of the trip is greatly appreciated. As a guideline, we recommend €15-€20 per client per week. It is also customary to tip the driver, we recommend approximately €10- €15 per person. This can be handed to your leader at the end of the trip.
Responsible Travel
At Exodus we believe in the power of Responsible Travel.
Every time we travel, we are part of a global movement that creates jobs, builds more sustainable societies, encourages cultural understanding and safeguards common natural and cultural heritage. To learn more about what Responsible Travel means to Exodus click here…
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.