November 25th 2024.
Ever found yourself torn between two stunning cities, each offering a unique and magical Christmas market experience? The struggle is real, my friend. But fear not, because now you can have the best of both worlds with an unbelievably affordable train ride between Prague and Vienna. That's right, you can shop, sightsee, and indulge in the festive spirit of both cities in just one day if you so desire. And let me tell you, it's a journey you won't want to miss.
Thanks to the brand-new sister hotels from Almanac (already a hit in Barcelona!), Prague and Vienna are now connected by a four-hour train ride through the picturesque Czech and Austrian countryside. And the best part? The cost is just £12, as shown on Trainline EU. Yep, you heard that right. For the price of a takeaway sandwich, you can travel between these two iconic Christmas market destinations. Talk about a Christmas miracle.
Let's start with Prague, the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic. The city's landscape, with its forest of palaces, castles, and church spires, will make you feel like you've stepped into a real-life Disney movie. And the charming cobblestone streets, lined with retro trams, are just begging to be explored. The crown jewel of Prague, the castle on the hill, and its surrounding area have even been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Now that's a sight to behold.
For the ultimate Prague Christmas experience, don't miss the Old Town Square market from November 30th to January 6th. And while you're there, be sure to sample some traditional Czech Christmas treats like Cukroví, Perníčky, and Vánočka. As for decorations, you'll find them in abundance on Celetná Street, Pařížská Street, Národní Street, and Neruda Street. And if you're looking for some fun activities, why not go ice skating at Wenceslas Square, take a boat ride on the Vlatava River, or go horseback riding through the snowy city?
For those looking to explore Prague beyond the main tourist spots, check out Time For Prague's 1-5 Day Itineraries. They'll give you access to over 200 hidden gems, help you save time planning, and even provide secret discounts for your trip. Now that's what I call a Christmas bonus.
And for a relaxing Sunday stroll, head to the River Vltava. With the recent addition of Prague Eyes, a series of charming riverside cafes and restaurants, you can now enjoy a scenic walk with a cold Czech beer in hand. Sounds like a perfect day to me.
Oh, and did I mention the hotel? We'll be staying at Almanac X Alcron Prague, located just off Wenceslas Square. This modernized version of a famous 1930s hotel has hosted some pretty impressive guests, including Charlie Chaplin and Winston Churchill. With its sleek and stylish rooms, retro-inspired decor, and a bar that serves up killer martinis, it's the perfect base for your Prague adventures.
Once you've had your fill of Prague, it's time to hop on the train and head to Vienna. And don't worry, you can take your own bottle of wine with you for the ride. Just make sure to reserve your seat beforehand as it can get quite busy. And let me tell you, the train ride through the scenic countryside is worth every penny of that £12 fare.
Welcome to Vienna, a city that is just as beautiful as Prague, but in a completely different way. While Prague is quaint and charming, Vienna is grand and majestic. Our hotel for this leg of the journey is Almanac Palais Vienna, located on Parkring, one of the most prestigious addresses in Europe. The hotel is situated across from the park where you'll find the famous golden statue of Strauss. Talk about a fancy address.
With a grandeur that surpasses even Almanac X Alcron Prague, this hotel is the ultimate in luxury. It boasts a huge spa in the basement and Vienna's largest indoor pool. And the rooms? Let's just say they're a modern and stylish take on the 1970s. And don't even get me started on the restaurant, Donnersmarkt. With its stunning mural, funky decor, and innovative cuisine, it's a hot spot for both tourists and locals alike. You'll definitely want to make a reservation to secure your spot at this popular spot.
And when it comes to Vienna's top attractions, they're all within walking distance of the hotel. From the palace and opera house to the cathedral and town hall, you'll be surrounded by grandeur at every turn. And for art lovers, make sure to check out the Belvedere, one of Europe's most impressive art museums. With its two Baroque mansions facing each other and an incredible collection of local artists like Klimt and Schiele, it's a must-see for any art enthusiast.
And of course, we can't forget about the Christmas markets. The Christkindlmarkt on Rathausplatz is a must-visit, with its huge tree and gorgeous town hall as a backdrop. For a more elegant market experience, head to Schönbrunn, located on the palace grounds. And when you've had your fill of glühwein, make sure to indulge in Vienna's famous coffee houses and their delectable Sacher torte. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Yes, it may seem like a lot to take in two of Europe's most stunning cities in one trip. But it's Christmas, and with such an affordable train fare and convenient hotel situation, it would be a shame not to. And who knows, you might just make it a new holiday tradition. This article was originally published on November 28, 2023. If you have a story to share about your travels, get in touch by emailing us. We'd love to hear from you.
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