Eastern European Explorations From Budapest to Athens
- Tour ID: BAT
- Duration: 13 Days / 12 Nights
- Transportation: Included
- Guide: English
- From: Budapest
- To: Athens
- Hotels: 3*- 4*
- Meals / Breakfast
Enjoy the Adventure
Experience an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Eastern Europe, where history, culture, and stunning landscapes converge. This captivating 13-day journey takes you from the vibrant streets of Budapest to the ancient wonders of Athens, weaving through Romania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania. With expertly guided tours and comfortable accommodations, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the region’s heritage and natural beauty.
Itenirary
Start your adventure in Budapest, where you’ll meet your guide and head into Romania. After crossing the border at Arad, enjoy a brief walking tour of this culturally rich Transylvanian town. Discover Arad’s architectural gems, such as the City Hall Palace, the Palace of Culture, the neo-Gothic Red Church, the Roman Catholic Church, and the neoclassical State Theatre. You can also stop for lunch at a local restaurant if time permits.In the afternoon, continue to Timisoara, a vibrant city known for its stunning architecture influenced by Turkish and Austro-Hungarian styles. Timisoara was named the European Capital of Culture in 2019. Overnight at a centrally located hotel in Timisoara.
After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to Corvin Castle, one of Europe’s largest Gothic castles, rich with history and legends.Next, head to Alba Iulia, a city steeped in history. Explore its Old Town, where Romania’s unification treaty was signed in 1918.In the afternoon, arrive in Sibiu, a city known for its charming Old Town and cultural significance. Join a guided walking tour to learn about Sibiu’s history and see why it was named the European Capital of Culture in 2007. Overnight at a centrally located hotel in Sibiu.
Start your day with a visit to Sighisoara, a fairy-tale town and the birthplace of Vlad Dracula in 1431. Explore the medieval streets and historic sites on a guided walking tour.In the afternoon, travel to Brasov, one of Romania’s most beloved cities. Take a walking tour of the Old Town, where you’ll see the famous Black Church and the historic city gates. Overnight at a centrally located hotel in Brasov.
In the morning, visit Bran Castle, famously known as Dracula’s Castle. Learn about the history of Vlad Dracula as you explore this 14th-century fortress.Later, head to Sinaia to visit the stunning Peles Castle, a 19th-century royal residence that remains beautifully preserved. Continue your journey to Bucharest, where you’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast, then join a guided tour to explore Bucharest’s most iconic sights. You’ll visit Revolution Square, the impressive Romanian Athenaeum, and the charming Villa Crosse Passage, among other highlights. Stroll through the historic Old Town and see the historic Manuc’s Inn and Old Princely Court. After a day of sightseeing, enjoy your evening in Bucharest, reflecting on your journey.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading to Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. Check into your hotel and take some time to relax. In the evening, meet with your guide for a welcome briefing and get ready for the adventures ahead.
After a hearty breakfast, delve into Sofia’s rich cultural heritage with a guided tour of its major landmarks. Visit the awe-inspiring Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a monumental symbol of Bulgarian Orthodoxy, and the historic St. Sofia Basilica, one of the city’s oldest churches. Continue your exploration with a visit to the National Art Gallery, housed in the former royal palace, and the Presidential Palace, known for its impressive architecture and ceremonial significance. Following your Sofia tour, embark on a journey to Skopje, the bustling capital of North Macedonia. Upon arrival, enjoy a comprehensive city tour, discovering highlights such as the ancient Kale Fortress overlooking the city, the iconic Stone Bridge spanning the Vardar River, the lively Macedonia Square with its grand statue of Alexander the Great, and the historic Mustafa Pasha Mosque. Spend a relaxing evening at a comfortable Skopje hotel, reflecting on your day’s adventures.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before setting out for Tirana. Along the way, consider a picturesque stop at Matka Canyon, a natural wonder renowned for its dramatic landscapes and serene lake (optional). Continue to Prizren, a charming city in Kosovo known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Enjoy a guided city tour of Prizren, exploring notable sites such as Prizren Castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, the elegant Sinan Pasha Mosque, the tranquil White Drin River, and the bustling Sadrvan Square. Take some time to shop for local handicrafts and savor traditional cuisine before proceeding to Tirana, the lively capital of Albania. Check in to your hotel and enjoy an overnight stay in this dynamic city.
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast before setting out on a captivating panoramic tour of Tirana. Discover the vibrant heart of the city with highlights including Skanderbeg Square, the impressive Skanderbeg Statue, the elegant Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the historic Clock Tower. After exploring Tirana, journey to the enchanting city of Ohrid, renowned for its stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage. Wander through Ohrid’s charming Old Town, soak in the breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid, and settle in for a comfortable overnight stay in this picturesque city.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a full day to immerse yourself in the beauty of Ohrid. Stroll through its charming streets, or optional for a half-day tour to the Sveti Naum Monastery, a serene and historic site perched on the shores of Lake Ohrid. This optional excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore the area’s deep cultural roots and stunning natural landscapes.
Start your day with breakfast and an optional visit to a renowned winery in North Macedonia. Continue to Kastoria, known for its stunning Byzantine churches, Ottoman-era architecture, and scenic lake. After exploring Kastoria, proceed to Meteora. Enjoy an overnight stay in Meteora, where you can rest and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
After breakfast at your hotel, visit the UNESCO-listed Meteora to tour the magnificent cliff-top monasteries. Explore two of these impressive Byzantine monasteries, each perched atop towering rock formations, offering breathtaking views. Following your visit, transfer to Athens by reserved shuttle or train. Self-transfer to your Athens hotel, check in, and enjoy a comfortable stay. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Athens’ nightlife at your leisure.
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Check out, and embark on a half-day guided tour of Athens, including a visit to the Acropolis Museum. Enjoy a coach journey past iconic landmarks such as the Greek Parliament and Panathenaic Stadium, followed by an on-foot exploration of the Acropolis and the timeless Parthenon. This tour marks the end of your journey, concluding your memorable adventure in Athens.
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