Central Europe Travel Tips

In Austria, coffee culture is an integral part of daily life, with Viennese cafés serving an array of sophisticated options like the Melange, a creamy blend of coffee and steamed milk, or the rich Einspänner, espresso topped with whipped cream. When it comes to alcoholic drinks, Austrian wines, particularly Grüner Veltliner and Riesling from the Wachau Valley, are internationally celebrated for their quality. Austria also prides itself on Schnaps, a fruit brandy often made from apricots, pears, or cherries, offering a taste of the country’s agricultural bounty.

Czechia is globally synonymous with beer, and for good reason—it has the highest beer consumption per capita in the world. Iconic lagers like Pilsner Urquell and Budweiser Budvar originated here, known for their crisp, refreshing taste and golden hue. Beer gardens and pubs are central to Czech social life, where locals enjoy pairing their pint with hearty snacks. Non-alcoholic options include Kofola, a cola-like drink with a herbal twist, and Medovina, a traditional honey wine enjoyed warm or cold, particularly during festive occasions.

Hungary’s drinks are equally distinctive, with Tokaji Aszú, a sweet dessert wine often referred to as the “Wine of Kings,” standing out as a national treasure. Hungary is also famous for Pálinka, a potent fruit brandy distilled from apricots, plums, or cherries, symbolising hospitality and celebration. Another unique offering is Unicum, a herbal liqueur with a bittersweet taste, often consumed as a digestif. For non-alcoholic options, fröccs (a mix of wine and soda water) offers a refreshing twist, while herbal teas made from chamomile or mint are popular for their soothing properties.