19-Day Family Road Trip: Dammam to Poland and Central Europe Adventure

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer

Krakow to Zakopane, Poland on July 23, 2025

10:00am

Flight Arrival at Krakow Airport

Arrive in Krakow from Dammam, collect your rental car suitable for a family of five, and get ready for your road trip to Zakopane.
Included in flight cost, 1h

11:00am

Drive from Krakow Airport to Zakopane

Enjoy the scenic 2-hour drive (about 110 km) south to Zakopane, the gateway to the Tatra Mountains.
Car rental and fuel approx. EUR100, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Restauracja Karczma u Wnuka

Try traditional Polish and highlander cuisine in a warm mountain wooden setting. Open 12:00pm-10:00pm.
EUR15-20 per person, 1h

3:00pm

Check-in at Hotel in Zakopane

Settle into your family-friendly accommodation. Recommend a hotel with family rooms and mountain views.
Varies, 2h

5:00pm

Stroll along Krupówki Street

Enjoy an evening walk along Zakopane’s main street with shops, cafes, and local crafts. Open late.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Restauracja Zakopiańska

Dine on regional specialities such as oscypek cheese and mountain lamb in a cozy atmosphere. Open 12:00pm - 10:00pm.
EUR20-25 per person, 1.5h
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Day 2: Mountain Exploration

Zakopane, Poland on July 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet at your hotel to start your outdoor day.
Usually included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Tatra National Park

Spend the day hiking family-friendly trails, taking in breath-taking mountain scenery and waterfalls. Park open all day.
EUR5 per adult, kids free, 5h

2:00pm

Lunch at Schronisko Murowaniec

Mountain hut offering traditional food and refreshments inside the park, perfect to recharge.
EUR10-15 per person, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Gubałówka Hill via Funicular

Take the funicular railway up to Gubałówka for panoramic views over Zakopane and the Tatras. Funicular operates 9:00am-10:30pm.
EUR8 round trip per person, 2h

6:00pm

Relax at Zakopane Aquapark

Enjoy swimming pools, water slides and saunas to relax after a day of hiking. Open 10:00am-10:00pm.
EUR15 per person, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Karczma Po Zbóju

Experience hearty mountain dishes in a rustic, family-friendly atmosphere. Open 12:00pm-10:00pm.
EUR15-20 per person, 1.5h
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Day 3: Cultural and Nature Day

Zakopane, Poland on July 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local bakery

Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee at a bakery on Krupówki street. Open from 7:00am.
EUR5-7 per person, 1h

9:30am

Visit Witkiewicz Museum

Explore the life and art of Zakopane’s notable artist Stanisław Witkiewicz. Open 9:00am-6:00pm.
EUR5 per person, 1.5h

11:30am

Walk to Morskie Oko Lake

Drive 30 minutes and take a scenic 2-hour trek to one of the most beautiful lakes in the Tatras.
Parking fee EUR5, 4h

4:00pm

Return and rest at hotel

Rest and relax after the hike at your accommodation, preparing for the next day’s journey.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Restauracja Marzanna

Enjoy traditional Polish cuisine with a modern twist in a family-friendly setting. Open 12:00pm-9:00pm.
EUR15-25 per person, 1.5h
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Day 4: Zakopane Leisure Day

Zakopane, Poland on July 26, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast buffet with local and international dishes.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Aquapark Zakopane Day

Spend a full morning to afternoon enjoying pools, slides and spa treatments for family fun. Open 10:00am-10:00pm.
EUR15 per person, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Restauracja Owczarnia

Sample local mountain dishes including sheep cheese and grilled meats. Open 12:00pm-10:00pm.
EUR20 per person, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Zakopane Style Museum

Learn about Zakopane’s unique wooden architecture and folk culture. Open 10:00am-6:00pm.
EUR5 per person, 1.5h

6:00pm

Evening at leisure

Take a leisurely walk or rest before dinner. Ideal for shopping or casual strolls on Krupówki Street.
Free, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Restauracja Bąkowo Zohylina

Have a cozy dinner with homemade pierogi and regional specialties. Open 12:00pm-10:00pm.
EUR15-20 per person, 1.5h
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Day 5: Day Trip to Dunajec River Gorge

Zakopane to Pieniny National Park, Poland on July 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up early for a day trip with a breakfast buffet.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Szczawnica – Pieniny National Park

About 1.5-hour drive to Szczawnica, gateway to the famous Dunajec River Gorge rafting.
Fuel approx EUR20, 1.5h

10:00am

Rafting on Dunajec River

Enjoy a family-friendly 2-3 hour traditional wooden raft trip through scenic gorges. Operating hours: 9:00am-6:00pm.
EUR20 per adult, EUR15 children, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch in Szczawnica

Dine at a local restaurant like Restauracja Młyńska offering Polish and international dishes. Open 12:00pm-9:00pm.
EUR15-20 per person, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Szczawnica Spa Town

Walk around the charming spa town, visit parks and mineral water springs before return.
Free, 1.5h

4:30pm

Drive back to Zakopane

Return drive to hotel to rest.
Fuel approx EUR20, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Karczma Po Zbóju

Enjoy regional cuisine with friendly family atmosphere after your day trip. Open 12:00pm-10:00pm.
EUR15-20 per person, 1.5h
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Day 6: Zakopane Museum and Relax

Zakopane, Poland on July 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Breakfast buffet with family-friendly options.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit Tatra Museum

Discover the history, culture and nature of the Tatras through engaging exhibits. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR6 per person, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Restauracja Szymaszkowa

Enjoy a light lunch with a stunning view of the Tatra Mountains. Open 12:00pm-6:00pm.
EUR12-18 per person, 1h

1:30pm

Spa and Wellness Afternoon

Enjoy family spa treatments or a relaxing swim at your hotel or local wellness center.
Varies, 3h

5:00pm

Leisure time

Explore local markets or relax at hotel before dinner.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Restauracja Zakopiańska

Savor a final taste of Zakopane cuisine. Open 12:00pm-10:00pm.
EUR20-25 per person, 1.5h
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Day 7: Final Zakopane Day

Zakopane, Poland on July 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local café

Enjoy coffee and pastries at Café Tygodnik Podhalański, open from 7:00am.
EUR5-7 per person, 1h

9:30am

Visit Wooden Architecture Route Sites

Tour famous traditional wooden churches and villas around Zakopane. Self-guided or with a guide. Open all day.
Free to EUR5 for some sites, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Restauracja Watra

Enjoy mountain dishes and live folk music on some days. Open 12:00pm-10:00pm.
EUR15-20 per person, 1h

2:30pm

Pack and rest at hotel

Prepare for departure to Budapest the next day.
Free, Rest of day

7:00pm

Casual dinner nearby

Choose a nearby casual eatery for a relaxed family dinner.
EUR10-15 per person, 1.5h
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Day 8: Road Trip to Budapest

Zakopane to Budapest, Hungary on July 30, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for the long drive.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Budapest

Approximately 3.5-4 hour drive (approx. 330 km) to Budapest; enjoy scenic countryside views en route.
Fuel approx EUR50, 4h

12:00pm

Check-in at Budapest Hotel

Settle into your family-friendly accommodation in central Budapest.
Varies, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Bors GasztroBár

Casual spot known for creative soups and sandwiches, perfect for families. Open 10:00am-8:00pm.
EUR8-12 per person, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Buda Castle and Castle Hill

Explore historical castle grounds, museums, and enjoy panoramic views over the Danube River. Open 10:00am-6:00pm.
Free entry to grounds, museums EUR10, 3h

6:00pm

Walk across Chain Bridge to Pest side

Enjoy an evening walk over the iconic Chain Bridge linking two sides of Budapest.
Free, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Paprika

Traditional Hungarian food in a family-friendly atmosphere, open until 9:00pm.
EUR15-20 per person, 1.5h
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Day 9: Budapest Sightseeing

Budapest, Hungary on July 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Gerbeaud

Historic café serving classic pastries and coffee. Open 7:30am-10:00pm.
EUR10 per person, 1h

9:30am

Visit Hungarian Parliament Building

Guided tour of the stunning neo-Gothic Parliament building, book tickets in advance. Open 8:00am-6:00pm.
EUR25 per adult, children discount, 1.5h

11:30am

Walk along Danube Promenade

Enjoy the river views and public art installations in this pleasant riverside walk.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Central Market Hall

Sample Hungarian street food like lángos and shop local products. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR8-12 per person, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Famous thermal baths with indoor/outdoor pools, perfect for family relaxation. Open 6:00am-10:00pm.
EUR20 per person, 3h

5:30pm

Explore Heroes’ Square

Visit the iconic monuments and park, open all day.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Hungarikum Bistro

Enjoy an authentic Hungarian dinner in a welcoming family environment. Open 12:00pm-10:00pm.
EUR15-20 per person, 1.5h
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Day 10: Danube Cruise and City Park

Budapest, Hungary on August 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start with a buffet breakfast at the hotel.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Danube River Cruise

Take a 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise along the Danube to see Budapest’s landmarks from the water. Cruises depart regularly from 9:00am.
EUR15 per person, 1.5h

11:30am

Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica

Explore the stunning basilica and, optionally, climb to the dome for views. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
Free entry, dome EUR5, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Menza Restaurant

Popular spot in Liszt Ferenc Square offering Hungarian and international dishes. Open 11:30am-11:00pm.
EUR15-20 per person, 1h

2:00pm

City Park and Vajdahunyad Castle

Explore the large City Park with playgrounds and the fairy-tale Vajdahunyad Castle. Open all day.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden

Fun for kids and adults with diverse animals and plants. Open 9:00am-7:00pm.
EUR10 per person, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Kiosk Budapest

Trendy restaurant with varied menu and family-friendly options. Open 12:00pm-11:00pm.
EUR15-25 per person, 1.5h
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Day 11: Drive to Vienna

Budapest to Vienna, Austria on August 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast before departure.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Vienna

Approximate 2.5-3 hour drive (243 km) from Budapest to Vienna, crossing the Hungarian-Austrian border.
Fuel approx EUR40, 3h

12:00pm

Hotel check-in in Vienna

Settle into your centrally located family-friendly hotel.
Varies, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Gasthaus Pöschl

Traditional Austrian dishes in a cozy family setting. Open 11:00am-10:00pm.
EUR15-20 per person, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Schönbrunn Palace Gardens

Explore the beautiful gardens and outdoor attractions like the maze and playground. Palace interior closed on Mondays; gardens open all day.
Gardens free, palace interior approx EUR20, 3h

6:00pm

Walk around Vienna City Centre

Stroll past landmarks like St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Vienna State Opera.
Free, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Figlmüller

Try the famous Wiener Schnitzel, perfect for families. Open 11:30am-10:00pm.
EUR20-30 per person, 1.5h
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Day 12: Vienna Highlights

Vienna, Austria on August 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Central

Enjoy Viennese pastries at this historic café. Open 8:00am-10:00pm.
EUR10 per person, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kunsthistorisches Museum

Explore vast art collections perfect for culture lovers. Open 10:00am-6:00pm.
EUR18 per adult, children free, 2.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Naschmarkt

Sample international food stalls in Vienna’s famous market. Open 6:00am-7:30pm.
EUR10-15 per person, 1h

1:30pm

Ride Giant Ferris Wheel (Riesenrad)

Enjoy great views of the city from Prater Park’s iconic ferris wheel. Open 10:00am-10:00pm.
EUR12 per person, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Prater Park

Large amusement park and green spaces ideal for families.
Free, 2h

5:30pm

Relax at Stadtpark

See the famous Johann Strauss statue and playgrounds, perfect for kids. Open all day.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Plachutta

Traditional Austrian cuisine specializing in Tafelspitz, family friendly. Open 12:00pm-10:00pm.
EUR20-30 per person, 1.5h
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Day 13: Drive to Prague

Vienna to Prague, Czech Republic on August 4, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast before traveling.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Prague

Approximate 3.5-hour drive (330 km) to Prague, enjoying scenic views and crossing borders.
Fuel approx EUR50, 3.5h

12:00pm

Check-in at Prague hotel

Settle into your accommodation in the heart of Prague.
Varies, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Lokál Dlouhááá

Traditional Czech cuisine in a lively atmosphere. Open 11:00am-11:00pm.
EUR10-15 per person, 1h

2:30pm

Walk Old Town Square

Explore the historic square with Astronomical Clock shows on the hour. Open all day.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Charles Bridge

Historic stone bridge with statues and views over the Vltava River.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mlejnice

Czech hearty dishes in a rustic setting. Open 11:00am-11:00pm.
EUR15-20 per person, 1.5h
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Day 14: Prague Castle and Museums

Prague, Czech Republic on August 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Savoy

Elegant café serving breakfast and pastries. Open 8:00am-10:00pm.
EUR10 per person, 1h

9:30am

Visit Prague Castle

Tour the extensive castle complex including St. Vitus Cathedral and Golden Lane. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR15 per adult, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Kuchyň

Restaurant near the castle offering seasonal Czech dishes with great views. Open 11:00am-8:00pm.
EUR15-20 per person, 1h

2:00pm

Visit National Museum

Learn about Czech history and culture, open 10:00am-6:00pm.
EUR10 per person, 2h

4:30pm

Relax at Letná Park

Enjoy playgrounds and views of the city skyline. Open all day.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at V Kolkovně

Traditional Czech beer hall with hearty meals and family ambiance. Open 11:30am-11:00pm.
EUR15-20 per person, 1.5h
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Day 15: Family Day in Prague

Prague, Czech Republic on August 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Buffet breakfast to start a family-friendly day.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit Prague Zoo

One of Europe’s top zoos with various animal exhibits and playgrounds. Open 9:00am-7:00pm.
EUR12 per person, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at café in zoo

Casual dining options inside the zoo, suitable for kids.
EUR10-15 per person, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Petrin Hill and Observation Tower

Climb or take funicular to the tower resembling Eiffel Tower for city views. Open 10:00am-8:00pm.
EUR5 per person, 2h

6:00pm

Relax at hotel

Rest and prepare for last night in Prague.
Free, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Café Louvre

Classic café with historic ambiance, serving Czech and international dishes. Open until 11:00pm.
EUR15-20 per person, 1.5h
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Day 16: Last Day in Prague

Prague, Czech Republic on August 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local bakery

Enjoy fresh breads and pastries before a relaxed day. Bakeries open from 7:00am.
EUR5-7 per person, 1h

9:30am

Visit Jewish Quarter (Josefov)

Tour synagogues and the Jewish Museum for history. Open 9:00am-6:00pm.
EUR16 combined ticket, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Mincovna

Traditional Czech meals in a cozy environment. Open 11:00am-10:00pm.
EUR15-20 per person, 1h

1:30pm

Shopping and leisure in Old Town

Explore shops and cafés for souvenirs and snacks.
Free, 3h

5:30pm

Return to hotel and pack

Prepare for drive back to Krakow.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Casual dinner near hotel

Enjoy a relaxed last dinner in Prague before departure.
EUR10-15 per person, 1.5h
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Day 17: Drive back to Krakow

Prague to Krakow, Poland on August 8, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Prepare for the drive with a full breakfast.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Krakow

About 6-7 hour drive (540 km) to Krakow with stops for breaks and meals.
Fuel approx EUR70, 7h

3:00pm

Hotel check-in in Krakow

Rest after arrival in Krakow at a comfortable and family-friendly hotel.
Varies, 1h

4:30pm

Evening stroll near Main Market Square

Enjoy the buzzing atmosphere of Krakow’s historic center.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Restauracja Pod Aniołami

Traditional Polish fare in a charming medieval cellar restaurant. Open till 10:00pm.
EUR15-25 per person, 1.5h
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Day 18: Explore Krakow Old Town

Krakow, Poland on August 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Charlotte

French bakery and café with fresh breads and great coffee. Open from 7:30am.
EUR8-10 per person, 1h

9:30am

Visit Wawel Castle

Tour the royal castle, cathedral, and dragon’s den. Open 9:30am-5:00pm.
EUR10 per adult, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Miodova

Modern Polish cuisine in the heart of old town. Open 12:00pm-10:00pm.
EUR15-20 per person, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Schindler’s Factory Museum

Insightful WWII history museum. Open 10:00am-6:00pm.
EUR8 per person, 2h

4:30pm

Relax at Planty Park

Walk around the park encircling the Old Town.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Restauracja Szara Kazimierz

Upscale dining with Polish and international dishes in Kazimierz district. Open 12:00pm-10:00pm.
EUR20-30 per person, 1.5h
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Day 19: Kazimierz and Departure

Krakow, Poland on August 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Buffet breakfast to start your last day.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Explore Kazimierz Jewish Quarter

Visit synagogues, street art, and unique shops in this vibrant neighborhood. Open all day.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Hamsa Hummus & Happiness

Middle Eastern cuisine with vegetarian-friendly options in Kazimierz. Open 11:00am-10:00pm.
EUR12-18 per person, 1h

2:00pm

Pack and prepare for departure

Return rental car and get ready for your flight home.
Varies, Rest of day

6:00pm

Early Dinner at Milkbar Tomasza

Casual traditional Polish meals in a casual setting. Open until 8:00pm.
EUR8-12 per person, 1h
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