21-Day Budget-Friendly Balkans, Austria, and Greece Adventure

Day 1: Vienna Introduction

Vienna, Austria on May 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Sperl

Start your day with an affordable Viennese breakfast featuring classic coffee and pastries in a historic café setting.
EUR8, 1h

9:30am

Visit Schönbrunn Palace Gardens

Enjoy a self-guided walk through the palace gardens for free, experiencing imperial beauty and landscaped grounds.
EUR0, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Naschmarkt

Explore Vienna’s famous market and choose budget-friendly local dishes or fresh snacks from various stalls.
EUR10, 1h

1:30pm

Free Walking Tour of Vienna Historic Center

Join a free (tip-based) walking tour visiting St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace exterior, and other landmarks.
EUR0, 2h

4:00pm

Relax in Stadtpark

Take a leisurely walk or rest in this beautiful city park featuring the famous Johann Strauss statue.
EUR0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Wieden Bräu

Enjoy a hearty traditional Austrian meal such as schnitzel at this budget-friendly brewery and restaurant.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 2: Vienna to Ljubljana

Ljubljana, Slovenia on May 2, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel or Local Bakery

Grab a quick coffee and pastry to start your travel day budget-consciously.
EUR5, 0.5h

8:00am

Travel Vienna to Ljubljana by bus

Take a direct and economical bus ride (about 5.5 hours) enjoying scenic views en route to Ljubljana.
EUR20, 5.5h

2:00pm

Check-in and Lunch at Čompa

Taste affordable Slovenian dishes close to the city center with vegetarian options available.
EUR10, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Ljubljana Old Town

Walk around the charming pedestrian-friendly old town, admire the triple bridge and Tromostovje Bridge.
EUR0, 2h

6:00pm

Visit Ljubljana Castle (optional)

Take the funicular up to the castle for panoramic views, entrance fee is low-cost and worth it.
EUR10, 1.5h

8:00pm

Dinner at Špajza

Savor traditional Slovenian home-style cooking at reasonable prices in a cozy setting.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 3: Ljubljana to Zagreb

Zagreb, Croatia on May 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Le Petit Café

Enjoy fresh croissants and local coffee to fuel your morning.
EUR6, 0.5h

9:00am

Bus from Ljubljana to Zagreb

Travel by bus for about 2 hours to reach Croatia’s capital affordably.
EUR12, 2h

11:30am

Check-in and Lunch at Bistro Šalša

Try Croatian comfort food at a budget-friendly bistro near the city center.
EUR10, 1h

1:00pm

Visit Zagreb Cathedral and Tkalčićeva Street

See the iconic cathedral and enjoy a stroll along the lively street filled with cafes and shops.
EUR0, 2h

3:30pm

Explore Upper Town (Gornji Grad)

Walk through old town streets, visit St. Mark’s Church exterior and enjoy panoramic views.
EUR0, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mali Bar

Dine at this small, budget-friendly bistro known for fresh and simple dishes.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 4: Zagreb to Split

Split, Croatia on May 4, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel or local bakery

Have a quick, budget-friendly breakfast before your journey south.
EUR5, 0.5h

8:00am

Bus from Zagreb to Split

Travel approximately 5 hours by bus along scenic routes to the Dalmatian coast.
EUR15, 5h

1:30pm

Check-in and Grab a light lunch at Kantun Paulina

Try tasty local ćevapi or sandwiches at this budget-friendly spot in Split’s old town.
EUR8, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Diocletian’s Palace

Wander through this UNESCO World Heritage site’s ancient Roman ruins and alleys for free.
EUR0, 2h

5:30pm

Walk along Riva Promenade

Relax by the sea on Split’s lively waterfront promenade during sunset.
EUR0, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine

Enjoy affordable Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a casual atmosphere.
EUR18, 1.5h
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Day 5: Split to Mostar

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina on May 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kavana Procaffe

Sip a morning coffee with light pastries to start your day cost-effectively.
EUR6, 0.5h

9:00am

Travel from Split to Mostar by bus

A short 3-hour bus ride crossing into Bosnia offering mountain and rural views.
EUR15, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Tima Irma

Dine on authentic Bosnian dishes like cevapi at this affordable and popular spot.
EUR10, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Mostar Old Bridge (Stari Most)

Marvel at the iconic 16th-century Ottoman bridge and explore the old bazaar nearby.
EUR0, 2h

4:30pm

Discover Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque (optional entrance)

Climb the minaret for panoramic views over Mostar’s rooftops for a small fee.
BAM5 (~EUR2.50), 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Šadrvan

Enjoy traditional hearty Bosnian cuisine in a welcoming, budget-friendly environment.
EUR12, 1.5h
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Day 6: Mostar to Sarajevo

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina on May 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hostel’s communal kitchen or local café

Keep costs low with a simple breakfast of bread, cheese, and coffee.
EUR4, 0.5h

9:00am

Bus to Sarajevo

Enjoy a scenic 2.5 to 3-hour journey to the Bosnian capital at a low cost.
EUR10, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Buregdžinica Bosna

Taste delicious Bosnian pastry burek for a very affordable lunch option.
EUR4, 0.5h

1:30pm

Walk Baščaršija Bazaar

Explore the Ottoman bazaar with its artisan shops, mosques, and traditional architecture.
EUR0, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Sarajevo Tunnel Museum

Learn about the city’s history during the siege through this important and affordable museum.
EUR5, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Avlija

Dine on Bosnian specialties in a cozy courtyard with reasonable prices.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 7: Sarajevo to Kotor

Kotor, Montenegro on May 7, 2025

7:30am

Light breakfast at hostel café

Simple and budget-friendly pastries and coffee before travel.
EUR4, 0.5h

9:00am

Bus to Kotor (via Podgorica)

Long scenic bus trip of around 5 hours crossing from Bosnia into Montenegro.
EUR15, 5h

2:30pm

Check-in and lunch at Konoba Scala Santa

Enjoy Montenegrin seafood and local dishes at affordable prices near the bay.
EUR15, 1.5h

4:30pm

Walk Kotor Old Town & City Walls

Explore cobbled streets and climb partial city walls for views of the bay (free sections).
EUR0, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Cesarica

Try grilled fish and local specialties within budget in this popular Kotor spot.
EUR18, 1.5h
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Day 8: Kotor to Budva day trip

Budva, Montenegro on May 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local bakery

Grab fresh pastries and coffee for an economical breakfast.
EUR5, 0.5h

9:00am

Bus to Budva (approx. 30 minutes)

Affordable short bus ride to the nearby coastal town Budva.
EUR3, 0.5h

9:45am

Explore Budva Old Town

Walk the medieval streets, visit citadel entrances, and enjoy seaside views.
EUR0, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Konoba Stari Grad

Affordable Montenegrin cuisine with seafood options in quaint surroundings.
EUR12, 1h

1:30pm

Relax on Mogren Beach

Spend a few hours at this beautiful but free beach with clear Adriatic waters.
EUR0, 3h

4:30pm

Return to Kotor and rest

Bus back to Kotor for relaxation before dinner.
EUR3, 0.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Forza Wine Bar

Light dinner with local wines and sharing plates at reasonable prices.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 9: Kotor to Tirana

Tirana, Albania on May 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at local café

Economical Albanian pastries and coffee to begin your travel day.
EUR4, 0.5h

8:30am

Bus from Kotor to Tirana

Take approximately 5-6 hour budget bus crossing from Montenegro into Albania.
EUR15, 6h

3:00pm

Check-in and late lunch at Era Restaurant

Taste authentic Albanian cuisine at this affordable and popular local spot.
EUR10, 1h

4:30pm

Explore Skanderbeg Square and Et'hem Bey Mosque

Stroll the main city square and visit the iconic mosque with beautiful frescoes.
EUR0, 1.5h

6:30pm

Walk the Blloku district

Experience Tirana’s youthful nightlife area, budget-friendly cafes and bars abound.
EUR0, 1.5h

8:00pm

Dinner at Padam Boutique Hotel & Restaurant

Enjoy a good meal with local flavor on a budget-friendly menu in a stylish setting.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 10: Tirana to Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, Greece on May 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or local bakery

Start your day with fresh bread and coffee for an economical option.
EUR5, 0.5h

9:00am

Bus from Tirana to Thessaloniki

Journey for around 6-7 hours crossing into Greece using low-cost bus service.
EUR20, 7h

4:00pm

Check-in and late lunch at Ergon Agora

Try affordable quality Greek cuisine with traditional flavors in a market setting.
EUR15, 1h

5:30pm

Explore Aristotelous Square and waterfront

Enjoy the lively promenade, people-watching, and beautiful sea views for free.
EUR0, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Diagonios

Sample authentic Greek meze dishes in a friendly and reasonably priced tavern.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 11: Thessaloniki sightseeing

Thessaloniki, Greece on May 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Estrella

Enjoy innovative Greek breakfast pastries and strong coffee at budget prices.
EUR7, 1h

9:30am

Visit White Tower of Thessaloniki

Iconic historical landmark with great museum and panoramic city views. Open 8am-3pm.
EUR6, 1.5h

11:30am

Museum of Byzantine Culture

Explore impressive artifacts from Byzantine history, open 9am-4pm with affordable entrance.
EUR6, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Meze Meze

Savor traditional small plates Greek meze in a cozy, budget-friendly environment.
EUR12, 1h

3:00pm

Walk Ano Poli (Upper Town)

Explore preserved old town, Byzantine walls, and amazing views, free of charge.
EUR0, 2h

6:00pm

Relax at Ladadika District

Experience colorful nightlife, affordable taverns, and vibrant atmosphere.
EUR0, 2h

8:30pm

Dinner at Diagonios (repeat)

Enjoy excellent and affordable Greek cuisine and wine to end the day.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 12: Thessaloniki to Athens

Athens, Greece on May 12, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast at hotel or local café

Fuel up economically with coffee and a light bite before your travel day.
EUR5, 0.5h

7:30am

Bus or Train from Thessaloniki to Athens

Choose a budget bus or train for around 5-6 hours traveling south.
EUR25, 6h

1:30pm

Check-in and lunch at O Kostas

Affordable and famous souvlaki spot near Monastiraki for classic Greek fast food.
EUR8, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Plaka and Anafiotika

Wander these charming, budget-friendly old neighborhoods below the Acropolis.
EUR0, 2h

6:00pm

Visit Areopagus Hill at sunset

Free and popular vantage point for panorama views of Acropolis and Athens.
EUR0, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Taverna Saita

Enjoy traditional Greek dishes and excellent value for money near Monastiraki.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 13: Athens Ancient Sites

Athens, Greece on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mokka Specialty Coffee

Start the day with great coffee and affordable breakfast in the city center.
EUR6, 1h

9:30am

Visit Acropolis and Acropolis Museum

Explore ancient monuments and art. Open 8am-7:30pm. Combined ticket approx EUR20.
EUR20, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Kostas Souvlaki

Quick and budget-friendly souvlaki near downtown Athens for a Greek fast meal.
EUR8, 1h

2:00pm

Stroll National Garden & Zappeion

Relax in this peaceful public garden at no cost, perfect for an afternoon stroll.
EUR0, 1.5h

4:00pm

Visit Ancient Agora (free with Acropolis ticket)

Explore ruins and the museum in the ancient marketplace area.
EUR0, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at To Kafeneio

Enjoy authentic home-style Greek dishes in a warm atmosphere on a budget.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 14: Athens to Santorini

Santorini, Greece on May 14, 2025

7:00am

Light breakfast at hotel or bakery

Light and budget-friendly breakfast before departure to island.
EUR5, 0.5h

8:00am

Ferry from Athens to Santorini

Take low-cost ferry (5h approx) from Piraeus port to Santorini for scenic crossing.
EUR30, 5h

1:30pm

Check-in and lunch at To Ouzeri

Affordable traditional Greek dishes and seafood near Fira center.
EUR15, 1.5h

3:00pm

Explore Fira Town

Walk picturesque streets with cliff views, shops, and budget-friendly cafes.
EUR0, 2h

6:00pm

Sunset viewpoint at Fira Cable Car Station

Enjoy free views of Santorini sunset from this accessible spot.
EUR0, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Lucky’s Souvlakis

Taste delicious, inexpensive souvlaki and Greek fast food favorites on the island.
EUR10, 1h
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Day 15: Santorini Exploration

Santorini, Greece on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Metaxy Mas

Local favorite offering affordable breakfast with island specialties.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Hike Fira to Oia

Scenic 3-4 hour hike along caldera cliff edge with breathtaking views, free activity.
EUR0, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch in Oia at Ammoudi Fish Tavern

Fresh seafood by the sea at reasonable prices if choosing simple dishes.
EUR15, 1.5h

4:00pm

Explore Oia village

Wander cobbled streets and famous blue-domed churches with fantastic photo ops.
EUR0, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Pelekanos

Authentic local cuisine with great views, offering budget-friendly menu options.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 16: Santorini to Athens

Athens, Greece on May 16, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Simple breakfast before ferry departure to Athens.
EUR5, 0.5h

8:00am

Ferry from Santorini to Athens

Return ferry ticket around 5 hours to Piraeus port, budget-friendly option.
EUR30, 5h

1:30pm

Lunch at Avli tou Thodori

Affordable, well-rated taverna in Athens offering authentic Greek cuisine.
EUR15, 1h

3:00pm

Visit National Archaeological Museum

World-renowned museum with budget entrance fee, opens until 5pm.
EUR10, 2h

6:00pm

Evening walk in Monastiraki Flea Market

Free stroll and window shopping in lively flea market and shops.
EUR0, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at O Thanasis

Try delicious and cheap souvlaki and gyros at this local favorite.
EUR10, 1h
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Day 17: Athens to Salzburg

Salzburg, Austria on May 17, 2025

6:00am

Early breakfast at hotel

Light and quick breakfast to prepare for a long travel day.
EUR5, 0.5h

6:30am

Flight from Athens to Salzburg (via low-cost carrier or connecting flight)

Budget flight with advanced booking for approx 3 hours total flight time.
EUR60, 3h

10:00am

Check-in and brunch at Café Tomaselli

Historic café offering moderately priced pastries and coffee in Salzburg’s Old Town.
EUR10, 1h

11:30am

Walk Salzburg Old Town

Explore the beautiful baroque architecture, Mozartplatz, Domplatz, and Getreidegasse.
EUR0, 2h

2:00pm

Visit Mirabell Gardens

Free entry to well-known gardens with sculptures and great photo opportunities.
EUR0, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Hohensalzburg Fortress exterior and viewpoints

Free to walk around the fortress area; optional funicular ticket extra cost.
EUR0, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Sternbräu

Enjoy affordable Austrian cuisine and beers in a central location with budget options.
EUR18, 1.5h
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Day 18: Salzburg to Ljubljana

Ljubljana, Slovenia on May 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or local bakery

Economical start with coffee and pastries to prepare for travel.
EUR5, 0.5h

8:30am

Bus from Salzburg to Ljubljana

Approximate 3.5-4 hour bus journey with budget ticket and scenic views.
EUR20, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Druga Violina

Affordable traditional Slovenian dishes with local ingredients near old town.
EUR12, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Tivoli Park

Relax and walk the elevated park landscapes, free and centrally located.
EUR0, 1.5h

4:00pm

Browse Ljubljana Central Market

Engage with local food stalls and crafts, perfect for budget sightseeing.
EUR0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Špajza (repeat)

Enjoy another affordable meal with Slovenian home-cooked style dishes.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 19: Ljubljana to Graz

Graz, Austria on May 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or local café

Simple budget breakfast before travel.
EUR5, 0.5h

8:30am

Bus from Ljubljana to Graz

About 2.5 hour bus trip to Graz, Austria at reasonable prices.
EUR15, 2.5h

11:30am

Lunch at Der Steirer

Taste Styrian specialties with affordable lunch menus in a casual setting.
EUR12, 1h

1:00pm

Explore Graz Old Town and Schlossberg

Visit the Uhrturm clock tower and stroll Schlossberg park for free views over Graz.
EUR0, 3h

5:00pm

Visit Murinsel (The Island)

Modern architectural attraction on the Mur river, free to visit any time.
EUR0, 0.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gasthaus Stainzerbauer

Enjoy Austrian cuisine with great value dinner menus in a friendly environment.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 20: Graz to Vienna

Vienna, Austria on May 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or bakery

Quick and affordable breakfast before travel.
EUR5, 0.5h

8:30am

Train from Graz to Vienna

Fast and efficient budget-friendly train takes about 2.5 hours.
EUR20, 2.5h

11:00am

Visit Belvedere Gardens (free outdoor access)

Relax and enjoy free access to palace gardens and beautiful scenery.
EUR0, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Centimeter

Affordable Austrian dishes and great vegetarian options near city center.
EUR10, 1h

3:00pm

Visit MuseumsQuartier Sculpture and outdoor space

Free to roam large complex with outdoor art installations and occasional street events.
EUR0, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gasthaus Pöschl

Enjoy a final affordable traditional Viennese meal in a cozy atmosphere.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 21: Departure Vienna

Vienna, Austria on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Central

Dress up your final breakfast with a budget-friendly coffee and pastry at this famous café.
EUR10, 1h

10:00am

Last-minute shopping or walk in Vienna center

Spend the last hours strolling Kärntner Straße or Graben for souvenirs and local treats.
EUR0, 2h

Noon

Transfer to airport

Take public transport or budget shuttle to Vienna International Airport for your departure.
EUR4, 1h
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