Picture this: you're wandering the cobblestone streets of Prague's Castle Quarter, the spires of St. Vitus Cathedral piercing the sky, or sipping wine from a Hungarian vintner in the rolling hills outside Budapest. That's the kind of trip Rick Steves makes possible with his Central Europe guide—now in a lightweight Kindle edition that fits right in your pocket (or e-reader).
Central Europe packs a punch: romantic cities like Kraków and Bratislava buzz with energy, while the Julian Alps and Tatra Mountains call for epic hikes. But piecing it together—figuring out trains between Slovenia and Slovakia, skipping overpriced tourist spots, or finding that perfect thermal bath—can feel overwhelming. Language barriers, fluctuating currencies, and seasonal crowds add up fast if you're not prepared.
This guide cuts through the noise with fully updated coverage of the Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, Slovenia, Austria, and Slovakia, plus side trips to Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Bulgaria, and Romania. Rick ranks his must-see sights, from bustling Main Square in Kraków to quiet country roads in the Alps. You'll get self-guided walking tours of neighborhoods, detailed maps for on-the-go exploring, and honest advice on where to eat real goulash, crash after a long day, or relax in Budapest's Szechenyi Baths.
Travel lighter—over 1,000 pages without the bulk. Save money with Rick's budget hacks, like the best markets for pierogi in Poland or affordable sleeps in Slovenia. Connect deeper: chat with locals over pálinka in Hungary or hike trails few tourists find. It's not just info; it's the confidence to improvise when your train's delayed or you stumble on a hidden chapel.
Planning a two-week road trip? Use it to link Vienna's cafes with Slovenia's Lake Bled. Solo backpacking? Follow the walking tours through Bratislava's old town. Families? Hit kid-friendly spots like the Prague Zoo with ease. Whether you're chasing history in Romania's painted monasteries or unwinding in Montenegro's bays, this guide turns 'what if' into 'I did that.'
Grab Rick Steves Central Europe on Kindle and make every mile count. Your adventure starts now.