Budget-Friendly 9-Day Itinerary in Bucharest, Budapest, and Vienna

Day 1: Explore Bucharest

Bucharest, Romania on June 17, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Caru' cu Bere

Start your day with a traditional Romanian breakfast in this historic restaurant known for its beautiful architecture.
RON30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Palace of the Parliament

Explore the world’s second largest administrative building, offering guided tours that showcase its stunning architecture and history.
RON40, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hanul lui Manuc

Enjoy lunch at this charming inn serving traditional Romanian dishes and local wines in a rustic setting.
RON50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Stroll Around the Old Town

Wander through Bucharest's Old Town, exploring scenic streets filled with cafes, shops, and historical sites.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Romanian Athenaeum

Admire the stunning classical concert hall known for its impressive dome and rich musical heritage.
RON15, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at La Mama

Dine at this cozy restaurant offering a variety of Romanian comfort food, perfect for ending your first day.
RON60, 1.5 hours

Day 2: More of Bucharest

Bucharest, Romania on June 18, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Pâine și Vin

Grab a fresh pastry and coffee at this quaint bakery known for its delicious breakfast options.
RON25, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Village Museum

Discover Romanian rural life at this open-air museum featuring traditional houses and crafts from different regions.
RON25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Divan

Savor a meal in this Turkish restaurant that combines delicious flavors with a cozy setting.
RON55, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax in Herastrau Park

Enjoy some downtime in this large urban park, ideal for walking, picnicking, or simply soaking up the sun.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit the National Museum of Art

Explore the extensive collection of Romanian and European art housed within the former Royal Palace.
RON20, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Il Calcio

End your day with Italian cuisine, featuring a variety of pasta and pizza options in a casual atmosphere.
RON55, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Bran Castle Day Trip

Bran, Romania on June 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading out for the day.
RON0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Day Trip to Bran Castle

Take a bus from Bucharest to Bran (approx. 3 hours), and visit the iconic castle associated with the Dracula legend.
RON40, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Castle View Restaurant

Enjoy lunch with a view near Bran Castle, offering a range of traditional Romanian dishes.
RON50, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore the Village of Bran

Wander through the picturesque village surrounding the castle, featuring local shops and artisan stalls.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Bucharest

Take the bus back to Bucharest and relax after a fulfilling day.
RON40, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Casa Doina

Enjoy a hearty meal in a charming garden setting featuring Romanian specialties.
RON70, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Travel to Budapest

Budapest, Hungary on June 20, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy breakfast as you prepare for your travel day.
RON0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Budapest

Take a direct train from Bucharest to Budapest (approx. 16 hours), admire the scenery on your journey.
RON150, All day

4:00PM

Arrive in Budapest and Check-In

Settle into your accommodation near public transport for easy exploration.
RON0, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Hummus Bar

Dine at this casual eatery famous for its delicious Middle Eastern dishes and vegetarian options.
RON60, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Discover Budapest

Budapest, Hungary on June 21, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café Gerbeaud

Visit this historical café for a delightful breakfast featuring pastries and cakes.
RON40, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Buda Castle

Explore the magnificent castle complex atop Castle Hill, with stunning views of the city.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Macesz Bistro

Enjoy a mix of Hungarian and Jewish cuisine at this cozy bistro in the Jewish Quarter.
RON55, 1 hour

2:30PM

Walk Along the Danube River

Take a scenic stroll along the river, enjoying views of the Parliament building and the Chain Bridge.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Great Market Hall

Explore Hungary's largest indoor market, filled with local foods, crafts, and souvenirs.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Paprika

Enjoy a traditional Hungarian dinner with goulash and other local specialties at this inviting restaurant.
RON65, 1.5 hours

Day 6: More of Budapest

Budapest, Hungary on June 22, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Szimpla Kert

Start your day at this popular ruin bar that also serves breakfast, with a unique atmosphere and local dishes.
RON40, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Heroes' Square

See the iconic square featuring the Millennium Monument, perfect for photography and learning about Hungarian history.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Stroll through City Park

Relax in City Park, home to the beautiful Vajdahunyad Castle and suggestions for picnics.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Lehel Csarnok

Head to this market hall for lunch where you can try various Hungarian street foods.
RON45, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the House of Terror

Learn about Hungary's turbulent history at this museum located in the former secret police headquarters.
RON40, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Kiosk

Dine at this stylish bistro offering modern twists on Hungarian classics in a vibrant setting.
RON70, 1.5 hours

Day 7: Travel to Vienna

Vienna, Austria on June 23, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Have breakfast and prepare for your trip to Vienna.
RON0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Vienna

Take a train from Budapest to Vienna (approx. 2.5 hours), enjoying the beautiful landscape.
RON100, All day

12:30PM

Arrive in Vienna and Check-In

Settle into your accommodation with easy access to public transport.
RON0, 1 hour

2:00PM

Lunch at Naschmarkt

Explore Vienna's famous market for lunch options, from local Viennese specialties to international delights.
RON70, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Belvedere Palace Gardens

Stroll through the beautiful gardens of this UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for photos and picnics.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Café Landtmann

Enjoy a classic Viennese dinner amidst an elegant café setting, known for its iconic ambiance.
RON85, 1.5 hours

Day 8: Explore Vienna

Vienna, Austria on June 24, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café Central

Start your day at this historic café, famous for its rich pastries and coffee.
RON50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit St. Stephen's Cathedral

Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture of this iconic cathedral located in the heart of Vienna.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gasthaus Pöschl

Dine at this traditional restaurant offering classic Viennese dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
RON65, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Hofburg Palace

Explore the former imperial palace and its fascinating museums, with rich history to uncover.
RON60, 2 hours

3:30PM

Stroll through Volksgarten

Take a leisurely walk through this beautiful public park featuring rose gardens and classical statues.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Plachutta

Indulge in a traditional Wiener schnitzel at this renowned restaurant with a lively atmosphere.
RON85, 1.5 hours

Day 9: Relax and Depart

Vienna, Austria on June 25, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sacher

Enjoy a last sumptuous breakfast at this famous hotel known for its Sachertorte pastries.
RON55, 1 hour

10:30AM

Time at Karlsplatz

Spend a relaxing morning at this square known for its stunning architecture and nearby attractions.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Café Mozart

Dine at this charming café known for its elegant atmosphere and delicious light meals.
RON60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Depart from Vienna

Check out of your hotel and head to the train or airport for departure.
RON0, 1 hour