Hungary's capital and star attraction lies between the Buda Hills and the Great Plain. Budapest is justly famous for its World Heritage architecture and thriving arts scene but there is much more to Hungary than its capital. Seeing Hungary by train offers the opportunity to see Esztergom, the shores of the Danube and the traditional skills of rural Hungarians. Crossing the Great Plain of Hungary by train also offers humbling views of a vast continental landscape. As well as seeing Hungary by train Great Rail Journeys also offer cruises along the Danube which take in Austria and Slovakia.
This striking country of quaint villages, beautiful cities and exquisite countryside where rolling hillsides and green valleys give way to picturesque grasslands flourishing with orchards and vineyards is not to be overlooked. The nation is abundant with diverse landscapes and interesting locations and these are easily accessible when you tour Hungary by train. From the world's largest thermal water cave system to the second largest fresh water lake in Europe, the nation has plenty of amazing sights and attractions with which to delight its guests.
Explore the history and culture of this fascinating country and take an extraordinary journey through Hungary by train.
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River Cruise
(63 reviews)Fly to and from Munich to enjoy a leisurely cruise through four countries and three capital cities, basking in beautiful river scenery all the way. Sail from the German border town of Passau through the Austrian wine-growing region of the Wachau Valley, admiring picturesque Dürnstein and commanding Melk Abbey enroute. After exploring imperial...
River Cruise
(59 reviews)Fly to Munich for a luxurious cruise down the blue Danube, uncovering the beauty and culture of this scenic river. Delve into the rich history of the Ottoman and Habsburg empires and wander among inspiring architecture in Budapest and Vienna. Sail the beautiful Wachau Valley, visiting Dürnstein and historic Melk Abbey. Arriving in the Slovakian...
River Cruise
(84 reviews)Enjoy a leisurely cruise through four countries and three capital cities, basking in beautiful river scenery all the way. Sail from the German town of Passau through the Austrian wine-growing region of the Wachau Valley, admiring picturesque Dürnstein and Melk Abbey enroute. After exploring imperial Vienna, the captivating Hungarian capital of...
Classic
(253 reviews)Embrace the storied past of grand empires on this bestselling rail holiday. Starting amid Vienna's glorious Habsburg palaces and ornate architecture, enjoy a strudel-making show at Schönbrunn Palace with a tasting, before soaking up the sights of Hungary's dignified capital, Budapest. Admire panoramic views of the illuminated Parliament and Buda...
River Cruise
(49 reviews)Embrace the storied past of grand empires on a captivating rail-and-cruise holiday. Starting in the German capital of Berlin, uncover the magic of Prague from its sprawling capital and enchanting Charles Bridge. Absorb panoramic views of Budapest's grand architecture on an illuminated evening cruise before setting sail for the fascinating cities...
River Cruise
(30 reviews)Journey down the blue Danube, where each bend in the river reveals a new tapestry of architectural wonders and culture. Delve into the history of the Ottoman and Habsburg empires and wander among inspiring architecture in Budapest and Vienna. Sail through the beautiful Wachau Valley to Dürnstein and captivating Melk Abbey. Discover the beauty of...
River Cruise
(120 reviews)Uncover the gems of Hungary, Slovakia and Austria on a luxurious Danube river cruise. Explore the fascinating cities of Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna, marvel at the striking Melk Abbey in the Wachau Valley, indulge in local cuisine and sample some of the region's finest wines. Choose to spend a day in historic Salzburg, the birthplace of...
River Cruise
(53 reviews)Fly to Budapest, the 'Pearl of the Danube' for a luxurious cruise through beautiful nature and the historic cities of central Europe. Enroute, uncover quaint villages, hillside vineyards and local cuisine. After exploring the fascinating cities of Bratislava and Vienna, marvel at the 11th-century Melk Abbey in Austria's scenic Wachau Valley.
River Cruise
Bavaria's enchanting landscapes of castles, forests and mountains create a stunning backdrop to this holiday. With three nights in Füssen, uncover hidden gems and soak up the natural beauty of the region, including a visit to the famous Neuschwanstein Castle and a journey on the Zugspitze Railway. Then experience the region's wonders on a Danube...
River Cruise
This carefully curated holiday takes you on an unforgettable journey through some of Europe's most scenic and culturally rich destinations. The adventure starts on the shores of Lake Geneva to experience the breathtaking Swiss Alps before boarding the iconic Glacier Express. Our explorations continue with a luxurious cruise along the Danube,...
Discoveries
(126 reviews)Discover the fascinating cities of Prague, Vienna and Budapest, encountering their rich heritage of art, history and culture while visiting world-class castles, palaces and museums. Fly into Prague to experience the medieval charm of the Czech capital, a magical city of exquisite architecture. Continue by train to Vienna and uncover the timeless...
River Cruise
A symphony of flavours, landscapes and architecture awaits along the Danube River on this enticing tour and cruise holiday. Begin in Munich, getting acquainted with the region's romantic scenery at Neuschwanstein Castle, touring the highlights of Munich and tasting Bavaria's traditional flavours. We then travel to Passau, where our cruise begins...
04/12/2025 · By James Elton and Ben Norris
Discover enchanting landscapes and famous castles aboard the luxurious Golden Eagle Danube Express, as experienced by Great Rail Journeys’ James Starkie.
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20/11/2025 · By Ian Holt
Visit Budapest with Great Rail Journeys and imperial history along the banks of the Danube, as well as elegant architecture, ruin bars and thermal spas.
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28/03/2025 · By Ian Holt
Enjoy a Great Rail Journeys holiday to Austria, uncovering Salzburg and the settings for the Sound of Music, which celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2025.
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03/01/2025 · By Ian Holt, Karen Overend, Sam Preece
Explore the top UNESCO World Heritage sites around the world, from breathtaking natural wonders to iconic historical landmarks. Discover these must-visit destinations with Great Rail Journeys.
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