20-Day Budget-Friendly Hidden Gems Tour Across Europe

Day 1: Exploring Ljubljana

Ljubljana, Slovenia on July 25, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Le Petit Café

Enjoy a budget-friendly breakfast with delicious pastries and coffee at this cosy café near the river.
EUR5, 1h

10:30am

Ljubljana Old Town Walking Tour

Discover the charming medieval old town with its markets, bridges, and vibrant atmosphere, ideal for a relaxed introduction to Ljubljana.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Druga Violina

Taste traditional Slovenian dishes with a modern twist at an affordable price in one of the city's hidden gems.
EUR10, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Tivoli Park

Stroll through Ljubljana’s largest park and enjoy its peaceful greenery and street art without spending a penny.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Pop’s Place

Savour budget-friendly international comfort food in this popular eatery known for great portions and prices.
EUR12, 1h
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Day 2: Ljubljana Museums and Castle

Ljubljana, Slovenia on July 26, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Kavarna Zvezda

Start your day with freshly brewed coffee and pastries from this local café near the central market.
EUR4, 1h

9:30am

Ljubljana Castle

Take the funicular or hike up to the castle for panoramic views. Explore exhibitions detailing Slovenian history and culture.
EUR10, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Špajza

Enjoy authentic Slovenian dishes at an affordable price in a charming spot hidden away in the old town.
EUR11, 1h

2:00pm

Museum of Contemporary Art Metelkova

Explore contemporary artworks in this alternative cultural centre located in Metelkova (check opening times, generally 12pm-8pm Wed-Sun).
EUR5, 1.5h

5:00pm

Evening walk by Ljubljanica River

Relax while walking alongside the river and admire the city's bridges illuminated at sunset.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Švent

Taste fresh, local, and affordable dishes at this stylish spot focusing on a sustainable menu.
EUR15, 1h
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Day 3: Day trip to Lake Bled

Ljubljana, Slovenia on July 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hostel/café

Grab a quick, budget-friendly breakfast before heading out for your day trip.
EUR4, 0.5h

9:00am

Bus to Lake Bled

Take the bus to Lake Bled (about 1h), a picturesque glacial lake with a castle and island, perfect for a day of scenic beauty.
EUR6, 1h

10:15am

Lake Bled exploration

Walk around the lake, visit Bled Castle (EUR13 entrance), or rent a boat to reach the church on the island.
EUR13-20, 4h

2:30pm

Lunch at Public Bar & Vegan Kitchen

Enjoy hearty vegan meals at reasonable prices with great views in Bled town centre.
EUR12, 1h

4:00pm

Return to Ljubljana

Take the bus back to Ljubljana to rest and prepare for dinner.
EUR6, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gostilna AS

Experience inexpensive, traditional Slovenian cuisine popular with locals.
EUR12, 1h
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Day 4: Travel to Mostar

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 28, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast in Ljubljana

Quick breakfast before departure, choose simple pastries and coffee to keep costs down.
EUR4, 0.5h

8:00am

Bus journey Ljubljana to Mostar

Embark on a scenic and budget-friendly bus journey to Mostar (approx 8-9 hours).
EUR30, 9h

5:00pm

Check-in and evening walk

Settle into budget accommodation, then enjoy a gentle evening walk around the historic Old Bridge area.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Šadrvan

Try Bosnian specialties like ćevapi in a traditional and affordable setting near the bridge.
BAM20, 1h
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Day 5: Mostar Sights & Culture

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Urban Grill

Enjoy a budget-friendly breakfast with views of the river and old town.
BAM8, 1h

9:30am

Old Bridge (Stari Most)

Visit this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its Ottoman-style bridge and historic significance.
BAM5, 1.5h

11:30am

Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque

Climb the minaret for stunning views over Mostar and river Neretva (open approx 9am–6pm).
BAM4, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Tima-Irma

Budget-friendly local dishes such as burek and stuffed peppers with a friendly atmosphere.
BAM12, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Muslibegović House

Explore this well-preserved Ottoman house museum to glimpse 17th-century interiors and culture.
BAM5, 1h

5:00pm

Relax by the river

Spend some downtime sitting by the riverbanks or at local cafés soaking in the atmosphere.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Sadrvan or Lokal Pub

Choose affordable yet delicious grilled meats and local beers at popular budget-friendly spots.
BAM20, 1h
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Day 6: Blagaj & Kravice Waterfalls

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at accommodation or local bakery

Grab pastries and coffee for a light breakfast before early excursions.
BAM5, 0.5h

8:30am

Visit Blagaj Tekke

Explore the stunning Dervish monastery located at the base of a cliff by the Buna river spring (open hours 9am–7pm).
BAM5, 2h

11:00am

Travel to Kravice Waterfalls

Take a short bus or taxi ride to the beautiful Kravice waterfalls, a serene natural swimming spot ideal for relaxation and photos.
BAM8, 30m

11:30am

Explore & swim at Kravice Waterfalls

Spend time wandering the area or cooling off in the natural pools (open 7am–8pm).
BAM10, 3h

2:30pm

Picnic lunch by the waterfalls

Purchase affordable local snacks and refreshments to enjoy a picnic amid nature.
BAM8, 1h

4:00pm

Return to Mostar

Head back to Mostar to rest and prepare for an evening meal.
BAM8, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Harmonija

Enjoy homemade Bosnian dishes such as stuffed vine leaves at a budget-friendly price.
BAM15, 1h
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Day 7: Travel to Kotor

Kotor, Montenegro on July 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at cafe near accommodation

Light breakfast with local breads and coffee before travel.
EUR3, 0.5h

9:00am

Bus from Mostar to Kotor

Scenic bus trip crossing borders into Montenegro, journey approx 5-6 hours.
EUR20, 6h

3:30pm

Arrival in Kotor and settle in

Check in to budget accommodation and rest a little.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Discover Kotor Old Town

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, full of narrow streets and historic sites.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Galion

Affordable seafood and Montenegrin dishes served in a waterfront setting with excellent views.
EUR15, 1h
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Day 8: Hiking & Town Walls

Kotor, Montenegro on August 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Forza Cafe

Start the day with coffee and pastries in this friendly local spot inside the old town.
EUR4, 1h

8:30am

Hike the Kotor Fortress Walls

Climb the extensive city walls up to the San Giovanni Fortress for panoramic views over the Bay of Kotor; carry water and wear good shoes.
EUR8, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Konoba Scala Santa

Enjoy inexpensive traditional Montenegrin food in a cosy tavern setting inside the old town.
EUR12, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Maritime Museum of Montenegro

Learn about Kotor’s seafaring history and UNESCO heritage (open 10am–6pm).
EUR3, 1h

4:00pm

Free time for coffee and exploration

Enjoy cafes or souvenir shops in the old town at your leisure.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Cesarica

Sample freshly grilled seafood dishes at reasonable prices.
EUR18, 1h
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Day 9: Bay of Kotor Boat Trip

Kotor, Montenegro on August 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at bakery

Simple, budget breakfast of bread, cheese and coffee.
EUR3, 0.5h

9:00am

Boat tour to Our Lady of the Rocks & Perast

Take an affordable half-day boat trip visiting the tiny island church and the picturesque town of Perast.
EUR20, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch in Perast at Conte Restaurant

Enjoy a reasonably priced meal with local specialties in Perast harbour.
EUR12, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Kotor and relax

Spend afternoon at leisure walking or resting.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Old Winery Wine Bar

Offer affordable local wines and light plates near the old town centre.
EUR10, 1h
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Day 10: Travel to Berat

Berat, Albania on August 3, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast near accommodation

Light meal to start the day and prepare for travel.
EUR3, 0.5h

8:00am

Travel Kotor to Berat

Travel by bus and shared transport to Berat, approx 7-8 hours including border crossings; enjoy the scenic Albanian countryside.
EUR25, 8h

4:30pm

Check-in and orientation walk

Settle in your budget guesthouse then explore the historic streets near the castle.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Homemade Food Lili

Enjoy traditional Albanian home-cooked meals that are very affordable and highly rated by travellers.
EUR10, 1h
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Day 11: Berat UNESCO City

Berat, Albania on August 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or cafe

Start with coffee and local bread or sweets.
EUR3, 0.5h

9:00am

Berat Castle & Onufri Museum

Explore Berat castle walls and visit the Onufri National Iconographic Museum showcasing Byzantine art (opening approx 9am–5pm).
ALL300 (around EUR2), 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Orizont Restaurant

Sample local cuisine with scenic views of the Osum river at reasonable prices.
EUR10, 1h

2:00pm

Walk through Mangalem & Gorica quarters

Wander the picturesque neighbourhoods known for their Ottoman architecture and white houses.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Ethnographic Museum

Discover traditional Albanian life in this small, affordable museum inside the castle area.
ALL200 (EUR1.5), 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at homemade food restaurant

Try tasty and inexpensive Albanian dishes in a family-run budget eatery.
EUR8, 1h
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Day 12: Travel to Plovdiv

Plovdiv, Bulgaria on August 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast near accommodation

Light breakfast with pastries and coffee.
EUR3, 0.5h

8:30am

Travel Berat to Plovdiv

Journey by bus and train crossing into Bulgaria, approximately 8 hours with a change in Sofia; scenic but budget-friendly transport.
EUR30, 8h

5:00pm

Check-in & evening stroll

Arrive and explore the cobbled streets of Plovdiv Old Town, a blend of Roman, Ottoman, and Bulgarian Revival architecture.
Free, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Pavaj

Cozy, budget-friendly restaurant offering traditional Bulgarian dishes in the Old Town.
BGN20 (around EUR10), 1h
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Day 13: Plovdiv History & Culture

Plovdiv, Bulgaria on August 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Little Things

Enjoy a cosy breakfast with coffee and homemade cakes in a charming setting.
BGN6 (EUR3), 1h

9:30am

Roman Theatre & Ancient Stadium

Visit Plovdiv’s remarkably preserved Roman theatre and the Ancient Stadium from the 2nd century AD (open 9am–6pm).
BGN8 (EUR4), 2h

12:00pm

Walk the Kapana District

Explore this vibrant artisan neighbourhood with street art, galleries, and affordable cafés.
Free, 1.5h

1:30pm

Lunch at Happy Bar & Grill

Popular and budget-friendly Bulgarian chain with tasty local meals.
BGN8 (EUR4), 1h

3:00pm

Ethnographic Museum

Discover Bulgarian traditions in this well-curated museum housed in a 19th-century Revival style house (open 9am–6pm).
BGN6 (EUR3), 1.5h

6:00pm

Relax at Tsar Simeon Garden

Enjoy a peaceful evening in this leafy park with fountains and local visitors.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Hemingway

Affordable, tasty meals with a mix of Bulgarian and European cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
BGN15 (EUR7.5), 1h
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Day 14: Travel to Brasov

Brasov, Romania on August 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast near accommodation

Light and affordable breakfast before travel.
BGN6 (EUR3), 0.5h

8:00am

Travel Plovdiv to Brasov

Take a train or bus via Sofia and Bucharest; approximately 9-10 hours journey, budget options available.
EUR35, 10h

6:00pm

Check-in and evening walk

Arrive at Brasov and stroll through the historic medieval centre to unwind.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Bistro de l’Arte

Affordable and tasty Romanian meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
RON40 (approx EUR8), 1h
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Day 15: Brasov Old Town & Surrounds

Brasov, Romania on August 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kafe Pub

Enjoy budget-friendly and excellent coffee with light breakfast options.
RON15 (EUR3), 1h

9:30am

Black Church & Council Square

Visit the impressive Gothic Black Church and wander the bustling town square surrounded by colourful baroque buildings.
RON20 (EUR4), 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Sergiana

Affordable Romanian and Transylvanian dishes in a traditional setting.
RON35 (EUR7), 1h

2:00pm

Hike Tampa Mountain

Walk or take a cable car to the summit of Tampa Mountain for panoramic views over Brasov and the surrounding Carpathians (cable car approx 9am–6pm).
RON20 (EUR4), 2.5h

5:00pm

Coffee Break in Old Town

Unwind in one of the many quaint cafés with a book or people-watch.
RON10 (EUR2), 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Casa Romaneasca

Enjoy good quality Romanian cuisine at reasonable prices with friendly staff.
RON40 (EUR8), 1h
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Day 16: Day trip to Bran Castle

Brasov, Romania on August 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at accommodation

Quick, budget-friendly breakfast to fuel your excursion.
RON10 (EUR2), 0.5h

8:30am

Bus to Bran Castle

Catch the affordable bus from Brasov to the famous Bran Castle, often associated with Dracula myth, approx 45 minutes.
RON8 (EUR1.5), 1h

9:30am

Visit Bran Castle

Explore the historic castle and its exhibitions; opens 9am–6pm during summer.
RON45 (EUR9), 2h

12:00pm

Lunch in Bran village

Local eateries offer cheap meals with homemade Romanian food.
RON20 (EUR4), 1h

1:30pm

Return to Brasov

Bus back to Brasov to rest and enjoy the afternoon.
RON8 (EUR1.5), 1h

3:00pm

Explore Schei district

Visit the oldest part of Brasov with charming churches and traditional houses.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Bistro de l’Arte

Return for affordable and tasty dinner with local wines.
RON40 (EUR8), 1h
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Day 17: Travel to Gdansk

Gdansk, Poland on August 10, 2025

6:30am

Early breakfast

Grab a quick bite to eat and prepare for a long travel day.
RON10 (EUR2), 0.5h

7:00am

Travel Brasov to Gdansk

Take a combination of trains and buses through Bucharest and Warsaw, budget traveling approx 12 hours. Consider night trains to save on accommodation.
EUR40, 12h

7:00pm

Arrival & check-in in Gdansk

Settle into budget accommodation in the city centre.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Pierogarnia Mandu

Affordable traditional Polish pierogi in a cosy atmosphere.
PLN25 (EUR5), 1h
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Day 18: Gdansk Old Town

Gdansk, Poland on August 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Drukarnia Cafe

Start the day with good coffee and budget-friendly pastries in a stylish café.
PLN15 (EUR3), 1h

9:30am

Walking tour of Old Town

Explore Gdansk's historic streets, the Long Market, Neptune Fountain, and St. Mary’s Church (entrance approx PLN15).
PLN15 (EUR3), 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Bar Mleczny Neptun

Eat cheaply and authentically in a traditional Polish milk bar serving local dishes.
PLN20 (EUR4), 1h

2:30pm

European Solidarity Centre

Learn about the Solidarity movement and Poland’s struggle for freedom (open 10am–6pm).
PLN24 (EUR5), 2h

5:00pm

Walk along the Motława River

Relax with beautiful views along the waterfront and watch sunset over the harbour.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Chleb i Wino

Enjoy affordable, fresh meals with a great wine selection in Old Town.
PLN40 (EUR8), 1h
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Day 19: Day Trip to Sopot

Gdansk, Poland on August 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast near accommodation

Quick and budget-friendly breakfast to prepare for the day.
PLN10 (EUR2), 0.5h

9:00am

Train to Sopot

Take a short and inexpensive train ride (approx 20 min) to the beach town of Sopot.
PLN7 (EUR1.5), 0.5h

9:30am

Explore Sopot Pier and beach

Walk Europe’s longest wooden pier and relax on the Baltic Sea beach, both free attractions.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Bar Przystań

Enjoy fresh fish and local dishes at affordable prices with waterfront views.
PLN30 (EUR6), 1h

2:30pm

Return to Gdansk & visit Oliwa Park

Train back to Gdansk and visit the peaceful Oliwa Park and Cathedral (free entry).
PLN7 (EUR1.5), 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Manekin Pancake House

Savour inexpensive and delicious sweet or savoury pancakes, a local favourite.
PLN20 (EUR4), 1h
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Day 20: Departure Day

Gdansk, Poland on August 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Toteat Cafe

Enjoy your last breakfast in Europe with fresh coffee and pastries near your accommodation.
PLN15 (EUR3), 1h

10:00am

Local market visit

Stroll the local market for last-minute souvenirs and local treats.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Prepare for departure

Head to the airport or bus/train station for onward travel home or to next destination.
Varies, Variable
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