14-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary: Lakes District to Eastern Europe

Day 1: Lakes Exploration

Lakes District, UK

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Grasmere Lodge

Start your day with a hearty traditional English breakfast featuring sausages, eggs, and baked beans at The Grasmere Lodge.
Walk from your accommodation – expect a 10-minute stroll.
GBP10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hike Catbells

Take in stunning views of Derwentwater while hiking Catbells, a manageable hike perfect for shoestring travelers.
Start at the car park near the base of Catbells.
Free, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Ambleside Tavern

Enjoy a delicious pub lunch featuring local pies and craft beer.
Bus or walk from Catbells for 30 minutes.
GBP15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Ambleside

Stroll through Ambleside, visiting local shops and the popular Waterhead Pier.
Walk around the town.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Three Shires Inn

After a day of exploring, enjoy a cozy dinner at this historic inn, famous for its locally sourced dishes.
Take a bus or walk to the inn.
GBP20, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More Lakes and Travel

Lakes District, UK

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Watermill

Enjoy a tasty breakfast with coffee and pastries at this quaint café.
A short 10-minute walk.
GBP8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Hill Top

Explore Beatrix Potter’s home and its lovely gardens.
Catch a local bus to Near Sawrey.
GBP12, 2 hours

11:00AM

Walk to Hawkshead

Take a scenic walk to the delightful village of Hawkshead.
Follow walking signs for an hour's walk.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Queen's Head

Dive into some delicious local dishes at this historic pub.
Walk around the village.
GBP12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Beatrix Potter Gallery

Discover the works of Beatrix Potter at this gallery in Hawkshead.
Just a short walk from the pub.
GBP5, 1 hour

3:00PM

Bus to Edinburgh

Catch a bus to Edinburgh in the afternoon.
Book tickets online for the best price.
GBP25, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Subway

Cheap and quick dinner option before your first night exploring Edinburgh!
Near the hostel in Edinburgh.
GBP8, 1 hour
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Day 3: Explore Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bon Picnic

Grab a delicious takeaway breakfast from this local café.
Walk to Bon Picnic, 15 minutes from your accommodation.
GBP6, 30 mins

8:30AM

Visit Edinburgh Castle

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a must-see historical site.
Walk up the Royal Mile.
GBP20, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore the Royal Mile

Stroll down the Royal Mile, enjoying the shops and street performers.
Walk along the Royal Mile towards Holyrood Palace.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Auld Hoose

Relax over a filling meal featuring haggis or nachos!
Walk back up the Royal Mile.
GBP12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Holyrood Palace

Discover the beautiful gardens and the impressive architecture of Holyrood Palace.
Walk from the lunch location, 10 minutes.
GBP15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Climb Arthur’s Seat

Hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of the city.
Public transport or walk to Holyrood Park.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Kitchin

Treat yourself to a unique dining experience featuring locally sourced fine dining.
Free tram ride or taxi near Arthur’s Seat.
GBP25, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: More Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Milkman

Start your day with delicious coffee and pastries.
Take a short walk from your lodging.
GBP5, 30 mins

8:30AM

Visit Calton Hill

Climb Calton Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Walk from The Milkman, about 20 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the Scottish National Gallery

Wander through one of the nation’s finest art galleries.
Walk down towards the gallery, 15-minute stroll.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Walk to Princes Street Gardens

Enjoy the beautiful green spaces before lunch.
Short walk from the gallery.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Baked Potato Shop

Grab a warm and filling jacket potato with various toppings.
Walk from the gardens, 10 minutes.
GBP6, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse

Explore this royal residence and its stunning surroundings.
Walk back to Holyrood Palace area.
GBP15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Free Time in Old Town

Wander through the historic streets of Old Town and explore any shops that catch your eye.
Wander freely.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Deacon's House Cafe

End your Edinburgh stay with a delightful dinner featuring Scottish cuisine.
Walk to the cafe in Old Town.
GBP18, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Travel to Prague

Prague, Czech Republic

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Louvre

Savor a Czech-style breakfast with pancakes and coffee.
Short tram ride or 20-minute walk.
CZK150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Fly to Prague

Catch a morning flight from Edinburgh to Prague.
Uber to the airport.
GBP50, 2 hours (including check-in)

12:00PM

Check-in at Accommodation

Arrive in Prague, check into your budget hostel.
Walk to your chosen hostel.
CZK400 (per night), 30 mins

1:00PM

Lunch at Lokál Dlouhááá

Indulge in traditional Czech dishes at this bustling local restaurant.
Walk 15 minutes from your hostel.
CZK200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Stroll through Old Town Square

Walk around the beautiful Historic center and see the Astronomical Clock.
Easy stroll from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Charles Bridge

Cross the iconic Charles Bridge, adorned with statues and bustling with artists.
Walk to the bridge in 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore Prague Castle

Wander through the grounds of Prague Castle, including St. Vitus Cathedral.
Catch tram number 22.
CZK250, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at U Medvídků

Enjoy a dinner of traditional Czech cuisine and beer.
Take tram back to the old town area.
CZK350, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Prague Adventures

Prague, Czech Republic

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Savoy

Indulge in pastries and fine coffee while enjoying the café's charming atmosphere.
A quick 15-minute walk.
CZK180, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Wenceslas Square

Visit this historic square, which is the site of many significant events throughout Czech history.
Walk to the square, 10 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the National Museum

Discover Czech history and culture at this impressive museum.
Walk across the square to the museum.
CZK200, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Café Louvre

Return to Cafe Louvre for another delicious lunch experience.
Walk back from the museum.
CZK250, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Vyšehrad

Explore this historic fort with beautiful views of the city.
Take tram number 3 to Vyšehrad.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul

Stroll around the beautiful grounds of this historic basilica.
Walking distance from Vyšehrad.
CZK100, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Nas Na Slupi

Head back toward the city center for traditional Czech fare.
Catch a tram back or walk about 20 minutes.
CZK300, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Travel to Brno

Brno, Czech Republic

8:00AM

Breakfast at Srdcovka

Enjoy a classic Czech breakfast featuring breads, cheeses, and eggs.
Short walk from your accommodation.
CZK120, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Brno

Catch a budget train for a short journey to Brno.
Walk to the main train station.
CZK130, 1 hour and 30 mins

11:00AM

Check in to Accommodation

Settle into your budget option in Brno.
Easy walk from the station.
CZK400 (per night), 30 mins

12:00PM

Lunch at Café Piláš

Grab a delicious lunch featuring local specialties.
A short stroll from the hostel.
CZK180, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Špilberk Castle

Explore the historic castle and enjoy breathtaking views of Brno.
Walk uphill to the castle.
CZK100, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore the City Center

Take a leisurely stroll through Brno’s quaint streets and shops.
Walk around the center.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Coffee Break at Café Druha Povina

Relax with a cup of coffee and traditional Czech pastries.
Continue exploring the area.
CZK90, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Zelená Kočka

Head to this local favorite for traditional Czech dishes.
Walk around town.
CZK240, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Discover Zagreb

Zagreb, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Stari Grad

Savor a Croatian breakfast featuring pastries, fruit, and coffee.
Walk to the café, 15 minutes from your accommodation.
HRK30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Zagreb

Catch a train from Brno to Zagreb.
Walk to the train station.
CZK300, 2 hours

11:00AM

Check into Accommodation

Settle into your budget accommodation in the heart of Zagreb.
An easy walk from the train station.
HRK200 (per night), 30 mins

12:00PM

Lunch at Bistro Apetit

Enjoy a delightful Croatian dish or two.
A short walk from your accommodation.
HRK50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Ban Jelačić Square

Explore the vibrant heart of Zagreb and enjoy city life.
Walk from lunch, about 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

2:00PM

Stroll through Upper Town

Wander the cobbled streets and see the iconic St. Mark’s Church.
Walk uphill to the Upper Town.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships

Experience this unique museum featuring love stories and mementoes.
Walk to the museum, about 20 minutes.
HRK40, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Korlata Grill

Experience Croatian BBQ dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
Walk to Korlata Grill, about 15 minutes.
HRK70, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Zagreb Wonders

Zagreb, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mlinar

Enjoy a quick yet delicious pastry and coffee from this local bakery.
Walk from your accommodation.
HRK20, 30 mins

8:30AM

Visit Gornji Grad (Upper Town)

Explore more of this historic area with beautiful architecture and sights.
Short walk from breakfast location.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Dolac Market

Immerse yourself in local culture and shop at this vibrant market.
Walk from Upper Town, about 10 minutes.
Free (just bring cash for purchases), 1 hour

11:30AM

Coffee at Velvet Café

Relax with a nice cup of coffee in a colorful café.
Walk from Dolac Market, about 5 minutes.
HRK30, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Bistro Apetit

Return for another delightful Croatian meal at this favorite local spot.
Walk back to Bistro Apetit.
HRK50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Art Pavilion

Explore the exhibitions showcasing local and international art.
Short bus ride or walk to the venue.
HRK30, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax in Zrinjevac Park

Unwind in this picturesque park surrounded by nature.
Walk to the park, about 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Vinodol Restaurant

Enjoy a final dinner in Zagreb at this charming place with traditional food.
Walk to Vinodol, about 20 minutes.
HRK80, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Journey to Ljubljana

Ljubljana, Slovenia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Cacao

Start with delicious pancakes and coffee at this popular café.
Walk to Café Cacao, 15 minutes.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Bus to Ljubljana

Travel on a budget bus to Slovenia’s charming capital.
Walk to the bus station.
HRK100, 2 hours

11:00AM

Check into Accommodation

Arrive and check into your budget hostel in Ljubljana.
Short walk from the bus station.
EUR30 (per night), 30 mins

12:00PM

Lunch at Druga Violina

Enjoy a traditional Slovenian meal at this quaint bistro.
Short walk from the hostel.
EUR15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Ljubljana Castle

Climb up to Ljubljana Castle and enjoy stunning views of the city.
A funicular ride available or walk uphill.
EUR10, 2 hours

3:00PM

Wander along the Ljubljanica River

Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the beautiful river and its bridges.
Walk along the riverbanks.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Coffee at Cafeteria Cacao

Relax with more delights at this beautiful riverside café.
Easy walk along the river.
EUR5, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Kruh + Kava

Dig into some delicious homemade bread and fresh Slovenian salads.
Short walk from the café.
EUR12, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Adventure at Lake Bled

Lake Bled, Slovenia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Cacao

Enjoy another round of delightful pancakes and coffee.
Walk to Café Cacao, same spot as before.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Bus to Lake Bled

Catch a bus to the stunning Lake Bled.
Walk to the bus station.
EUR7, 1 hour

10:00AM

Check into Accommodation

Arrive at Lake Bled and check into your budget stay.
Walk from the bus station to your accommodation.
EUR30 (per night), 30 mins

11:00AM

Explore Lake Bled

Take a leisurely walk around the beautiful lake, enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
Easily walk around the lake, about 6 km.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Vila Bled

Savor a delicious meal with a lake view at this prominent restaurant.
Near the lake.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Bled Castle

Climb to Bled Castle for impressive views over the lake and surroundings.
Short hike uphill.
EUR12, 2 hours

4:30PM

Coffee at Café Belvedere

Relax with a coffee at this café with stunning views.
Walk to Café Belvedere.
EUR5, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at the Old Cellar

Enjoy traditional Slovenian cuisine in a charming setting.
Walk back from the café.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: More Lake Bled Fun

Lake Bled, Slovenia

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Enjoy a simple hostel breakfast to fuel your day.
Breakfast included with accommodation.
EUR0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Row to Bled Island

Rent a rowboat and paddle to the picturesque Bled Island.
Rent a boat at the lake.
EUR15, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Church on Bled Island

Discover the charming church and the views over the lake.
Explore the island.
EUR6, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Restaurant 360

Dine with a view at this restaurant offering delicious Slovenian dishes.
Return by boat and walk to the restaurant.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hike to Ojstrica

Enjoy a hike to Ojstrica for stunning views of Lake Bled from above.
Walk to the trailhead, 15 minutes.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Lake Bled

Unwind as you take in the beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
Leisurely walk along the lake.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Rikli Balance Hotel

Enjoy dinner with an amazing view back at this hotel.
Short walk from the lake.
EUR18, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Return to Zagreb

Zagreb, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Fill up on a simple breakfast included with your accommodation.
Breakfast included.
EUR0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Bus back to Zagreb

Catch a bus back to Zagreb.
Walk to the bus station.
EUR10, 2 hours

11:00AM

Check into Accommodation

Return to your budget stay in Zagreb.
Easy walk from the bus station.
HRK200 (per night), 30 mins

12:00PM

Lunch at Kavana Lav

Enjoy a delicious meal at this blackwater restaurant.
Short walk from your accommodation.
HRK50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Tkalčićeva Street

Wander down this charming street filled with cafes and shops.
Walk from lunch, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Art Pavilion

Explore this cultural site with works from prominent local artists.
Walk to the pavilion.
HRK30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax in Jarun Park

Spend your afternoon unwinding in a beautiful park.
Take tram number 5 to Jarun.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bistro Apetit

Indulge in one last Croatian meal at a favorite local spot.
Travel back by tram.
HRK70, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Farewell Zagreb

Zagreb, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hostel

Grab your final hostel breakfast to fuel your trip home.
Breakfast included.
EUR0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Pick up souvenirs

Spend your final hours picking up any last-minute souvenirs.
Walk around the city center.
Varies, 2 hours

11:00AM

Lunch at Pregrada

Relax with a lovely meal at this stylish café.
Walk to Pregrada in the city center.
HRK80, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Prepare for Departure

Relax and make your way to the airport for your flight home.
Take a taxi or public transport to the airport.
Varies, 1.5 hours
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