Exploring Eastern Europe: Bucharest, Budapest, and Vienna on a Budget

Day 1: Arrival in Bucharest

Bucharest, Romania on June 17, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Caru' cu Bere

This historic brewery is not only famous for its architecture but also for its delicious traditional Romanian breakfast options. Don't miss their freshly baked pastrami and eggs.
RON45, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Palace of the Parliament

The second-largest administrative building in the world offers free guided tours showcasing its stunning interior. It's an essential stop to understand Romania's communist past.
RON0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hanu' lui Manuc

Enjoy traditional Romanian dishes like mămăligă (polenta) with sour cream in this charming historical inn, which boasts a lovely courtyard.
RON50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll through the Old Town

Wander through the cobbled streets of Lipscani, filled with vibrant street art, boutiques, and cafes. Ideal for soaking in local culture and history.
RON0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Taverna La Kaira

Savor authentic Romanian cuisine with dishes like grilled meats and fresh salads in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
RON75, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Day Trip to Transylvania

Bucharest, Romania on June 18, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at a local bakery

Grab a quick breakfast, with options like croissants or pastries paired with coffee to fuel up for your trip.
RON25, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Day trip to Bran Castle

Explore the infamous Castle of Dracula in Bran, surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery. The costs to enter are minimal, and it's a must-see for history buffs.
RON40, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch near Bran Castle

Enjoy a simple lunch at a nearby restaurant offering traditional Romanian fare such as sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls).
RON50, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Peles Castle

Marvel at the stunning Neo-Renaissance architecture of Peles Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in Europe, located in Sinaia. Explorable gardens make this an enjoyable visit.
RON60, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Bucharest

Relax during the scenic drive back, reflecting on the historical architecture and beautiful landscapes you encountered.
RON0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Artist restaurant

End your day with a fine dining experience at The Artist, known for its creative interpretation of Romanian dishes served in a modern style.
RON100, 2 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Budapest

Budapest, Hungary on June 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Szamos

Start the day with rich Hungarian pastries and traditional breakfast items in a charming café known for its sweet treats.
HUF3000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Budapest

Take an early bus or train from Bucharest to Budapest. Make sure to book in advance for the best rates.
RON130, 8 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at accommodation

Settle into your budget accommodation, which offers comfortable and economical options in the city center.
HUF0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Karpatia Restaurant

Experience traditional Hungarian home-cooked meals in a historic environment. Try the gulyás (goulash) with a glass of local wine.
HUF8000, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Day Trip to Danube Bend

Budapest, Hungary on June 20, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with options like eggs, bread, and coffee before your day trip.
HUF0, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Visegrád Castle

Explore the medieval fortress on the northern bank of the Danube River, offering stunning views over the river and the surrounding countryside. Admission is inexpensive.
HUF2000, 2 hours

11:00AM

Lunch in Szentendre

Dine at a local cafe, enjoying traditional Hungarian street food such as lángos (fried dough).
HUF1500, 1 hour

12:30PM

Explore Szentendre

Take a leisurely stroll through this charming artsy town known for its colorful buildings and artisan shops. It's a great spot for souvenir hunting.
HUF0, 2 hours

3:00PM

Return to Budapest

Relax on the way back, enjoying the beautiful landscape of the Danube Bend.
HUF0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Margaret Island

A green oasis in the heart of Budapest, perfect for a leisurely walk or renting a bike to explore. Admission to the island is free.
HUF0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Borkonyha Winekitchen

End the day with upscale Hungarian cuisine paired with a great selection of local wines, in an elegant but affordable setting.
HUF9000, 2 hours
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Day 5: Travel to Vienna

Vienna, Austria on June 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Landtmann

Savor a classic Viennese breakfast with a selection of pastries and coffee in one of the city's most famous cafés.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Vienna

Take the train from Budapest to Vienna. It's a comfortable and quick ride that you can book online in advance.
HUF3000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Check-in at accommodation

Settle into your budget-friendly accommodation in Vienna to refresh before exploring the city.
EUR0, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lunch at Naschmarkt

This famous outdoor market offers a variety of cheap eats. Try the fresh local produce and enjoy street food from around the world.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Schönbrunn Palace Gardens

Tour the stunning gardens of this UNESCO World Heritage site for free, where you can explore beautifully manicured lawns and flower beds.
EUR0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Gasthaus Pöschl

Enjoy authentic Viennese cuisine, including Wiener Schnitzel, at this renowned local eatery with a friendly atmosphere.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Day Trip to Wachau Valley

Vienna, Austria on June 22, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a simple breakfast at your accommodation, choosing from fresh bread, cheese, and coffee.
EUR0, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Melk Abbey

Explore the breathtaking Baroque architecture of Melk Abbey, set on a hill overlooking the Danube. The admission fee is moderate.
EUR13, 2 hours

10:30AM

Lunch in Melk

Try a traditional Austrian lunch at a local restaurant offering local specialties such as schnitzel and apple strudel.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Cruise on the Danube

Take a scenic boat cruise along the Danube River, soaking in the beautiful landscape and vineyards. Prices vary based on the package selected but are generally affordable.
EUR20, 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Dürnstein

Stroll through this charming medieval town known for its cobbled streets and wine shops, making it a perfect stop for wine tasting.
EUR0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Vienna

After a day of exploration, enjoy the beautiful scenery back to Vienna.
EUR0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Plachutta

Experience the famous Tafelspitz (boiled beef), a classic Viennese dish, in this traditional restaurant known for its quality and service.
EUR35, 2 hours
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