My Central Europe Itinerary: Where I Stayed and Why I’d Go Back πŸŒπŸ’Ό

 

A Realistic Review Based on My 12-Day Trip Through 5 Countries

After an unforgettable 12-day journey through Central Europe, I’ve collected not just memories, but also a list of places I stayed that shaped the trip in the best way (and sometimes the funniest). This blog post is a summary, for full details and more photos, check out my blog My Next Find.

πŸ‡¨πŸ‡Ώ Prague, Czech Republic

Start & End Point
I live in Prague, so this was both my jumping-off and return point. My best friend flew all the way from the Philippines to visit me, so it made perfect sense to start our adventure here. If you're visiting, Prague is absolutely worth 3-4 days. From its castles to cobblestones, it's pure magic.

πŸ‡¦πŸ‡Ή Salzburg, Austria

Accommodation: A budget-friendly hostel conveniently located near the train station
Cost:  €30 per person in a 6-person shared dorm
Review: The room was fine, but the shared bathroom felt like an Olympic event to access. It had a friendly vibe, great bar downstairs, and lockers for security. Perfect for backpackers.

Would I go back? Yes, absolutely. Salzburg is calm, walkable, and beautiful. I felt like stepping into a storybook with mountains, Mozart, and medieval charm all in one compact city. I’d go back just to wander the cobbled streets again, hike up to the fortress, and maybe take The Sound of Music tour (don’t judge me!). It’s peaceful, photogenic, and the kind of place that makes you slow down and soak it all in, plus, those mountain views? Unreal.

πŸ‡©πŸ‡ͺ Munich, Germany

Accommodation:  Affordable hotel close to the train station
Cost: €40 per night for 2 people
Review: Close to public transportation, comfy beds, and a great social atmosphere.

Would I go back?  Yes. Munich surprised me in the best way, it's a perfect mix of Bavarian tradition and city vibes. From giant pretzels to stunning architecture and beer gardens where strangers become friends, there’s something warm (and delicious) about this place. I’d go back just to explore more beyond the city: maybe visit Neuschwanstein Castle, or finally time my trip with Oktoberfest. Plus, Munich felt safe, walkable, and full of character definitely worth a second round!

πŸ‡¨πŸ‡­ Zurich, Switzerland

Accommodation: Budget hostel inside the city center   
Cost: €50 for a capsule-style bed in a 6-person shared room
Review: Basic but well-kept. Good option for short budget stays in pricey Zurich. It was beautiful, but my wallet is still recovering.

Would I go back?  Zurich may be pricey, but it’s also pristine, peaceful, and full of postcard-worthy scenes. I’d go back just for a proper lakeside picnic, a stroll through the old town, and maybe to see more of the Swiss countryside beyond the city. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re in a luxury travel ad even if you’re eating supermarket sandwiches to survive. Just need to bring a slightly fatter wallet next time!

πŸ‡§πŸ‡ͺ Brussels, Belgium

Accommodation: A cozy studio with kitchenette 
Cost: ~€90 per night for two people
Review: A hidden gem. Clean, modern, and super helpful staff. Bonus: kitchenette helped us save on food.

Would I go back? Brussels has its quirky charm. Where else can you find a peeing statue as a national icon, gothic squares, and insanely good waffles all in one walk? I’d go back just to people-watch at Grand Place, snack on budget-friendly waffles from street vendors, and pretend I understand European politics at the EU Parliament. It’s chaotic, multicultural, and weirdly lovable like that one eccentric friend you can’t help but adore.

πŸ‡³πŸ‡± Amsterdam, Netherlands

Accommodation: Budget hotel outside the city center (easily accessible with all public transportation)
Cost: ~€85–100 per night for two
Review: Small but efficient. Quiet area, comfy bed, and the tram stop was just 5 minutes away. A good base for exploring.

Would I go back? Yes — it balanced peace and price. Amsterdam has that effortlessly cool vibe like a friend who bikes everywhere, drinks strong coffee, and always looks good in photos. I'd go back for the canals alone (they really are as pretty as the postcards), the chill boat rides, and those perfect little bridges everywhere. Plus, the cheese? Worth the visit!

When it comes to finding budget-friendly accommodation, I usually check these websites for deals and discounts. They often have promo rates, flexible booking options, and honest reviews from fellow travelers which is super helpful when you’re planning a DIY trip on a budget!