- Cycle along rivers, through forests and national parks
- Discover four history-steeped countries
- Enjoy Central European culture, cuisines, wines and beers
Prague to Budapest Ride
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11 Days
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11 Days
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Incl. taxes
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Cycling
Itinerary
Prague Budapest
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.
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Essential Info
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
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.
Reviews
Add your own reviewBiking P-B
Excellent trip. Great guide and driving
Most Inspirational Moment
The Vienna Opera and a return to Bratislava after 30 years
Thoughts on Group Leader
Great leader. Showcased special sites during the entire trip.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be prepared for limited English in smaller towns.
Suggestions
The guide Jan and driver Jozef were a good team. They helped make a wonderful adventure very enjoyable.
Great bike adventure from Prague to Budapest
I had never been to this part of the world & this trip was an excellent way to experience it. We were a small group of 5 & our guide, Jan, was amazing. He knew so much about the area since he was from Slovakia. He individualized our adventures based on our interests. The Czech Republic, Austria, Slovakia & Hungary are rich in history, great architecture, local cuisine & culture. Do it!!! 😊
Most Inspirational Moment
Riding along beautiful, endless views of yellow canola fields
Thoughts on Group Leader
Jan was great! He went above & beyond to make sure our needs were met and that we were seeing & experiencing the local scene.
Advice for Potential Travellers
If you’re into it, we got tickets to see an opera at the Opera House in Vienna. It was such a cool experience.
PITY ABOUT THE SUBSTANDARD CZECH BIKES
The bikes we got weren’t Kelly Bikes as advertised on the initial trip notes but Czech bikes – Leader Fox Sumava. These were old bikes with cheap components, the gears slipped and jumped on all the bikes as the bikes had been fitted with new cassettes but not new chains. The tyres were bald some down to the canvas, the front chainrings were old and worn. There were no spare inner tubes and tyres. The bottle cage on the Ladies bikes was on the lower tube and couldn’t be reached when riding. After never ending mechanical problems, punctures & a broken chain, we asked the guide Andrej to get replacement bikes from the company which arrived the following day. They were the same model but the gears changed on these ones, so we had a mechanical free morning. After lunch there was an accident when the mudguard supports on a riders bike had broken off and attached to the rear tyre, the rear wheel jammed and the rider was thrown over the handlebars, followed by myself and partner. Had this occurred on a downhill section the injuries would have been far more serious. The rider whose bike had the dodgy mudguards was taken to hospital as his hand was very swollen, no fractures but he couldn’t ride his bike for 2 days. Fortunately myself and partner had cuts and bruises which we managed to get patched up using dressings from other members of the group. Andrej’s first aid kit consisted of a few plasters, betadine and a packet of tissues – not much use in the event of an accident. The group’s health and safety was compromised on this trip due to faulty bikes which is unacceptable as it was a CYCLING TRIP. The capital cities that we visited were great, as was the accommodation, just a pity the route to them hadn’t been more enjoyable. The trip notes stated that there would be full vehicle support which was impossible due to the cycle routes and narrow roads which the big bus and trailer were unable to negotiate. On several occasions we had to wait for the bus to appear as the driver had no smart phone or sat nav and relied on a paper map. Fortunately we had excellent weather and didn’t have to wait in the rain. This was an expensive trip and I don’t feel that I had value for my money. None of us had any confidence in the bikes wondering what was going to happen next. I always thought that Exodus looked after you on their trips but sadly this wasn’t the case on this one.
Most Inspirational Moment
Visiting Vienna and getting a bike tour of the city from the guide Andrej. We went to a Vivaldi Violin Convert in the evening Visiting Budapest which was a lot bigger than I thought. It has so much history. Bike tour of Budapest was worthwhile. Very easy to get around on the metro which was very efficient .
Thoughts on Group Leader
Andrej was a really nice guy who tried his best to adjust the gearing on the bikes. He was very helpful telling us where to eat and what the local dishes were. Unfortunately his choice of evening venue in Bratislava was not very good. The food and service were awful. Sometimes his communication about what was happening during the day could be rather vague, as was his historical information. Some riders wished to go ahead of the group and he didn’t give any information on where to stop to wait for the group. Needs to invest new tyre levers to get the tyres off when there’s a puncture Needs to get a decent first aid kit to deal with an accident - dressings, swabs and antiseptic spray
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take a decent set of Allen keys and tyre levers. A good first aid kit so you don’t have to rely on the guide. In Czech Republic we used our card and Karuna - they preferred Karuna to euros. In Budapest they took card and euros rather than HUFF. If you’re a vegetarian you’ll have difficulty finding anything other than a salad in rural areas. If we spotted a super market we got bread and cheese. They eat a lot of meat especially pork.
Suggestions
I feel that Exodus have contracted this trip to a company which is lacking in organisational skill, bike maintenance, and health and safety for the customers. Exodus travel safety charter was not adhered to on this trip. The holiday delivered was below what was expected, the trip notes were inaccurate concerning vehicle support, the leader didn’t inspire of inform us, our health and safety was compromised. Due to this I feel that I’ve been badly let down by Exodus, the holiday wasn’t as described and wasn’t the best of experiences. EXODUS SHOULD IMPROVE THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE.
Fabulous - Exceeded Expectations
The trip was amazing. The organization could not have been better. The hotels were all great and if this is Grade 3, I’ll travel at that level all the time.
All of the places we stopped were excellent and the lead guide always provided us with background on the places we stopped. The ride along the old iron curtain was truly eye opening.
Overall, this trip exceeded my expectations and set the standard for future trips. I would even like to do it again.
Most Inspirational Moment
Budapest blew my mind. I could never have imagined such a historic city and its culture. Everywhere I turned I was in awe. I want to go back.
Thoughts on Group Leader
The guides were outstanding. All trip support was outstanding. The leader, Juan, kept everything moving, resolved any problems quickly and provided lots of relevant information along the way. He was always upbeat, ready to listen and provide whatever was needed. What an excellent representative for Exodus. Andy, who rode the back line, provided excellent support, encouragement, and humor. He was very good in keeping me encouraged. Juan and Andy - thank for all the support and encouragement you provided.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Really look at your fitness level. I did not pay enough attention to the trip notes, specifically the hills, and did not have the required fitness for the trip. I "made it" with only a few short trips on the bus but I would have enjoyed the journey so much more if I did not struggle as I did. So, before you do this trip, practice your hills and make sure you can stay in the saddle for consecutive days. And make sure you have the right gear.
Suggestions
I was travelling alone and while I have done so before, it always brings some level of worry. I never felt alone on this trip. It was a great group and there was comraderie and support from other riders throughout. I could not have had a better group and will miss that.
Good but with issues
The trip achieves its aim of visiting the 4 countries and their capitals with a moderate amount of cycling. but the bikes were absolutley terrible.
Most Inspirational Moment
Not sure there was one
Thoughts on Group Leader
Very good - he lead the rides well, he communicated well. His local knowledge was excellent and was very informative. He helped the group gel. He worked very well with the second leader who was also excellent
Advice for Potential Travellers
The cycling is not that great - the best is in the Czech Republic but a large amount of it is on the banks of the Danube - so dead flat, dead straight and, frankly, dead boring. Also a lot of the ride is not on road - but on very well maintained gravel paths, a very small amount might be classified as trail. The places that the trip visits are pretty spectacular and our group gelled very well. So the trip, as a whole, is a trade off if you like doing more challenging cycling than this trip offers.
Suggestions
The bikes were poorly maintained - my head set was loose, the brake calipers were poorly adjusted and two of the group were plagued with chains that kept coming off, part of which was caused by extreme wear and tear on the chain rings. Also the choice of bikes - with swept back handle bars, so you were in a sit up and beg position - is really strange given the distance that one was doing on some days.
Prague to Budapest
Exceeded expectations. Great guides, driver and fellow cyclists. Tour is an interesting combination of rural and great cities.
Most Inspirational Moment
Our last meal as a group. Good companions
Thoughts on Group Leader
Excellent combination of cycling know how and narrative about the history of what we were seeing which included his experience of living under communism. I think he should make sure group is engaged before giving a briefing. Saying “ Gather around the map. I want you all to know where we are going.” once or twice would make all the difference. As well, if possible face people on the bus when relating some interesting history or giving some crucial information. Otherwise some miss key parts of what is being said.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Kick back and enjoy.
Prague to Budapest ride
Great ride through the rolling hills of Czech of republic and on through to Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. Many interesting stops along the way. Glad I did some training before the ride as we had some windy days.
Most Inspirational Moment
Riding along the old Iron curtain.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Peter and Dana were great. I required my brakes to be switched to accommodate my hands and even though I had some bike problems and switched three different bikes, Peter gladly switched for me.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Do some training, will make the trip much more enjoyable.
Suggestions
Thought everything was well organized but personally would have had shorter stops along the day and arrived at the towns earlier to enjoy more of the towns.
Cycling in four wonderful countries
This was my second Exodus trip and it was great as the first one. Dana was delightful, always willing to assist you with any request. She was assisted by Lubos. A very good driver and mechanic, always with a smile in his face.
We started the trip in the busy city of Prague , after a few days in the city I was so happy to get away. We got to the lovely town of Cesky Krumlov, it was a very relaxing day. After the first day the cycling got more challenging, we cycle through the hilly countryside. It was beautiful but really hilly. I’m not that good at hills since I lived in “FLAT” Florida.
All the cities we stop in the Czech Republic were memorable; Trebon, Telc, Mikulov. I will love to visit them again. The tour of the winery in Mikulov, so much fun. The Czech Republic beer and ice cream unforgettable.
The cycling tour of the city of Vienna is a most. And in the afternoon go and jump in the Danube.
The ride from Vienna to Bratislava was beautiful, a very long relaxing ride.Then we’re in Hungary, time go so fast. Finally the magnificent city of Budapest. Just AMAZING!
Most Inspirational Moment
On day six on our way from Telc to Mikulov (a very hot day) we stop in a small river and Dana and some of us jumped in the water. It was so hot that we didn’t care. It was fun...
Thoughts on Group Leader
Dana was excellent. Since she was the only leader in our group she was always making sure that everybody was accounted for.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Just enjoy your trip.
Suggestions
Almost all the riders had issues with the bikes, chains coming out. Maybe the Company should consider new bikes.
4 capital cities and 3 currencies in just 10 days.
First few days of cycling are quite difficult as there are a lot of hills. For the rest of the trip the cycling is mostly very easy and flat. You will visit 4 countries and have to get used to managing 3 currencies.
Food is fresh and portions are big. Bratislava is by far the smallest capital on the trip.
Most Inspirational Moment
Cycling from the hotel in Vienna directly to the hotel in Bratislava in a day. Not difficult but very statisfying.
Advice for Potential Travellers
If you want to see Prague go a few days early, as there is not really anytime to sight see on the trip. There are a lot of hills on the first few days. Even though you will say in 3 and 4 start hotels they tend not to have any soap or shampoo in the rooms.
Excellent First Trip
This was my first Exodus trip and wasn’t sure what to expect. From the first day of arrival the Exodus team Peter and Danke were exceptional in every aspect of the planning, logistics and guidance through the trip. The equipment (cycles) and were high quality and fit for a dual on and off road experience. I’m so impressed by the trip and the support that I have plans for two further in the next 18 months. A truly inspiring experience.
Most Inspirational Moment
The cohesiveness of the guides and our group on tough days where the weather was poor and the terrain challenging. We all stayed together.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Peter was exceptional in terms of his support, knowledge of all locations and accessibility for all group members for the slightest thing. He really showed exceptional professionalism and commitment throughout the tour.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Feel free to take your own seats and pedals as that’s where you spend most of your time riding! Comfort is critical so use what you are used to. Also check the temperature ranges to ensure you have suitable clothing to accommodate those changes.
Suggestions
I have no hesitation in recommending Exodus and would be happy to receive queries from clients regarding this trip.
Start
Finish
Availability
Adult Price From
Optional Single Supplement
Thursday Thursday
05 Oct 2023 05 Oct 2023
Sunday Sunday
15 Oct 2023 15 Oct 2023
Availability Guaranteed (On Request)
Adult Price From Usually CAD 5,349Now CAD 4,575Saving CAD 774 Usually CAD 6,204Now Saving CAD 774
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 551
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesThursday Thursday
13 Jun 2024 13 Jun 2024
Sunday Sunday
23 Jun 2024 23 Jun 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 5,695 CAD 5,695
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 608
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesThursday Thursday
18 Jul 2024 18 Jul 2024
Sunday Sunday
28 Jul 2024 28 Jul 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 5,695 CAD 5,695
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 608
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesThursday Thursday
15 Aug 2024 15 Aug 2024
Sunday Sunday
25 Aug 2024 25 Aug 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 5,695 CAD 5,695
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 608
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesThursday Thursday
05 Sep 2024 05 Sep 2024
Sunday Sunday
15 Sep 2024 15 Sep 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 5,695 CAD 5,695
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 608
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesThursday Thursday
03 Oct 2024 03 Oct 2024
Sunday Sunday
13 Oct 2024 13 Oct 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 5,695 CAD 5,695
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 608
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWould you like to include flights with your booking?
- ATOL protected
- Competitive flight prices
- Full refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
- Specialist support to rearrange flights and transfers
- Regional flights available from many UK airports
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Prague to Budapest Ride
11 Days
from
11 Days
from
Incl. taxes
Excl. flights