Budapest

Budapest is one of the most striking cities in Europe, built either side of the Danube with Buda's castle on the hill and Pest's grand boulevards spreading out across the flat eastern bank. Three nights at Hotel Vision gives you a superior room with a French balcony and a good base to explore from. The Parliament Building, the Chain Bridge, the thermal baths and the ruin are all within easy reach.

Vienna

A two and a half hour first class train journey brings you into Vienna, one of the great imperial capitals of Europe. Wide boulevards, grand palaces and some of the best coffee houses in the world make it a city that rewards time on foot. Three nights at the Hilton Vienna Waterfront puts you on the Danube Canal with easy access to the centre. St Stephen's Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace and the Ringstrasse are the highlights.

Prague

A four hour first class connection brings you into Prague, one of the best preserved historic cities in Europe. A medieval old town, a hilltop castle and a river running through the middle of it all. Four nights at Hotel Duo on a bed and breakfast basis gives you a comfortable base with mornings taken care of. The Old Town Square, Charles Bridge and Prague Castle are the anchors, but the city is worth getting lost in beyond the main sights.