Hungary - Slovakia - Czechia
Crossing from Austria into Hungary, the contrast between west and east was striking: just a few kilometers apart, yet worlds away. The roads felt different, the streets less orderly, and the atmosphere more rugged. On the Hungarian side, people drank and smoked openly, their demeanor rougher but somehow more real. I was surprised to learn that Hungary doesn’t use the Euro, so I exchanged some cash right at the border before continuing on. My ride eventually led me to Győr, a charming and vibrant city that quickly won me over.
After a few nights in Győr, resting and doing laundry in a cozy Airbnb, I crossed into Slovakia with the goal of cycling along the Danube for several hundred kilometers. For the most part, I had the riverbanks to myself, save for the occasional cruise boat gliding past. Once again, I was surprised that the Euro wasn’t in use, so I had to exchange some cash at the border. I eventually reached Bratislava, where I stayed for a few nights in a nun’s convent, soaking in the city’s quiet charm and exploring its historic streets.
After Bratislava, I made my way to Vienna (see previous page for pictures) before crossing into Czechia. Along the route, three cities truly stood out. The first was Mikulov, followed by Znojmo, and then I decided to take a detour to Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage site. I have to say, the detour was absolutely worth it. Despite being crowded with tourists—including groups from China—Český Krumlov felt surprisingly peaceful compared to Vienna or even Prague. At night, I could wander its streets almost alone, soaking in the charm of its winding lanes and historic squares.
Prague, my last destination on this cycling trip greeted me like a storybook brought to life. Its cobblestone streets and Gothic spires rose dramatically above the Vltava River. Cyclists and pedestrians shared winding alleys, each corner revealing a new hidden square. The city buzzed with history, music, and the aroma of fresh pastries. Even amid the crowds, I found moments of quiet wonder, wandering between centuries-old buildings as if time itself had slowed.
