19-Day Family Road Trip: Dammam to Krakow, Zakopane, Budapest, Vienna, Prague & Back

Day 1: Arrival & transfer

Krakow to Zakopane, Poland on July 23, 2025

7:00am

Arrival at Krakow Airport and transfer to Zakopane

Arrive at Krakow John Paul II International Airport and pick up your rental car for the family. Drive directly to Zakopane, a scenic mountain resort town approximately 2 hours away.
PLN 0, 2h

10:00am

Check-in at family accommodation in Zakopane

Settle into your pre-booked family-friendly accommodation to relax and prepare for the mountain adventures ahead.
PLN 0, 1h

11:30am

Breakfast at Karczma Po Zbóju

Enjoy a hearty traditional Polish mountain breakfast with your family, featuring oscypek cheese and fresh bread, open from 9 AM to 5 PM.
PLN 70, 1h

1:00pm

Explore Krupówki Street

Visit Zakopane's main pedestrian street with local shops, street vendors, and traditional crafts. Great for light strolling and family sightseeing.
Free, 2h

3:30pm

Visit Gubałówka Hill via funicular

Take the funicular to Gubałówka Hill for panoramic views of Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains. The funicular operates from 7 AM to 10 PM.
PLN 30 per person, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Restauracja u Wnuka

Enjoy traditional Podhale cuisine in a warm family atmosphere. Open daily from noon to 9 PM.
PLN 120, 1.5h

Day 2: Tatra Mountains Hike

Zakopane, Poland on July 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hostel or nearby bakery

Start early with a quick breakfast of pastries and coffee at a local bakery open from 6 AM.
PLN 30, 0.5h

8:30am

Day hike in Tatra National Park to Morskie Oko

Enjoy a family-friendly walk to the beautiful mountain lake Morskie Oko. The trail is scenic and manageable by all ages. Park open 24/7, best early morning to avoid crowds.
PLN 9 per person entrance fee, 6h

3:00pm

Lunch at Schronisko przy Morskim Oku

Have a relaxed meal in the mountain hut next to the lake, offering Polish soups and grilled dishes.
PLN 60, 1h

5:30pm

Return to Zakopane; rest

Drive back to your accommodation and rest after the hike.
PLN 0, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Restauracja Bachledówka

Savor traditional Polish dishes with panoramic views of the Tatras; open until 10 PM.
PLN 130, 1.5h

Day 3: Local Culture & Relax

Zakopane, Poland on July 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Tygodnik Podhalański

Enjoy a calm breakfast spot with fresh coffee and Polish pastries open from 8 AM.
PLN 35, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Tatra Museum

Explore Polish mountain culture, natural history, and folk art. Open 9 AM to 4 PM.
PLN 14 per adult, children free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Restauracja Zakopiańska

Taste regional specialties with a family-friendly setting, open daily from 11 AM.
PLN 90, 1h

1:30pm

Relax at termal pools at Terma Bukovina

Enjoy the thermal pools and spa amenities for the whole family. Open 10 AM to 10 PM.
PLN 80 per person, 3h

5:00pm

Return to accommodation

Rest and freshen up after the pools.
PLN 0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Karczma Zapiecek

Casual family restaurant with hearty Polish food, open until 9 PM.
PLN 100, 1.5h

Day 4: Gubalowka & Museums

Zakopane, Poland on July 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local Piekarnia (bakery)

Start your day with fresh bread and treats, bakery opens at 7 AM.
PLN 25, 0.5h

9:00am

Visit Villa Koliba – Museum of Zakopane Style

Discover Zakopane’s unique architectural style, open 9 AM to 5 PM.
PLN 15 per adult, kids free, 1.5h

11:00am

Explore nearby local artisan shops

Pick up souvenirs and see traditional crafts on Krupówki Street.
Free, 1.5h

12:30pm

Lunch at Restauracja Koliba

Traditional Polish food served in cozy surroundings, open noon to 8 PM.
PLN 75, 1h

2:00pm

Afternoon stroll or horseback riding

Take a family-friendly horseback ride through scenic trails with local stables, reserve in advance.
PLN 100 per person, 2h

5:00pm

Rest at accommodation

Relax and prepare for the evening.
PLN 0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Restauracja Villa Toscana

Enjoy an Italian-style dinner alternative to break up Polish cuisine, open until 9 PM.
PLN 130, 1.5h

Day 5: Zakopane Nature Day

Zakopane, Poland on July 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at accommodation

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before a full day outdoors.
Included, 0.5h

8:30am

Take a cable car to Kasprowy Wierch

Ride the cable car up for stunning views and easy hiking trails. Open 8 AM to 5 PM.
PLN 45 per adult, 30 per child round trip, 4h

1:00pm

Picnic lunch on Kasprowy Wierch

Pack a picnic or buy snacks from mountain hut located at the top of the cable car.
PLN 50, 1h

2:00pm

Easy hike or nature walk back toward Zakopane

Enjoy more nature and mountain landscapes on scenic trails accessible for families.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Return to accommodation and rest

Rest before dinner.
PLN 0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Restauracja Javorina

Taste traditional Slovak-style dumplings and other specialties, open until 10 PM.
PLN 110, 1.5h

Day 6: Leisure & Local Markets

Zakopane, Poland on July 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local café

Enjoy light breakfast with family-friendly options.
PLN 35, 1h

9:30am

Visit local farmer’s market

Browse fresh local produce, cheeses, meats, and artisanal products. Market typically open mornings until early afternoon.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Restauracja Rúben

Cozy restaurant offering fusion of international and Polish dishes, family friendly, open noon to 8 PM.
PLN 90, 1h

1:30pm

Relax at accommodation or local park

Spend some downtime with kids or short walk in the park.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Evening stroll and ice cream on Krupówki Street

Sample local ice cream while enjoying live street performances if available.
PLN 20, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Restauracja Panorama

Dine with a beautiful view of the mountains, specializing in Polish and European dishes, open until 9 PM.
PLN 130, 1.5h

Day 7: Final Day Zakopane

Zakopane, Poland on July 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and pack for next destination.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Aqua Park Zakopane

Waterpark with pools and slides perfect for kids. Open 10 AM to 8 PM.
PLN 50 per person, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at local diner near Aqua Park

Quick and casual meal before heading to Budapest the next day.
PLN 60, 1h

2:30pm

Relax and local shopping for souvenirs

Last chance to pick up gifts or regional specialties.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Restauracja Owczarnia

Signature mountain cuisine to savor one last time, open until 9 PM.
PLN 130, 1.5h

Day 8: Drive to Budapest

Zakopane to Budapest, Hungary on July 30, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast at accommodation

Prepare for the long drive ahead with a hearty breakfast.
Included, 0.5h

7:30am

Drive from Zakopane to Budapest

Family-friendly scenic drive approximately 5.5 to 6 hours. Plan stops for rest and snacks.
PLN 0, tolls may apply, 6h

2:00pm

Check-in at Budapest accommodation

Settle into your centrally located family lodging for three days of exploring the city.
0, 1h

3:30pm

Light walk along the Danube Promenade

Relax and enjoy views of the river and Budapest’s iconic bridges.
Free, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at Paprika Vendéglő

Try authentic Hungarian dishes in a cozy family environment open until 9 PM.
HUF 8000 approx., 1.5h

Day 9: Budapest Sightseeing

Budapest, Hungary on July 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Csiga

Family-friendly breakfast serving Hungarian pastries and good coffee, open 7 AM to 6 PM.
HUF 2500, 1h

9:30am

Visit Buda Castle and Castle Hill

Explore the historic castle complex with museums and great city views.
Free access to grounds, museums variable fees, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Pest-Buda Bistro

Traditional Hungarian lunch with family-friendly atmosphere, open till 3 PM.
HUF 6000, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Experience Budapest’s famous thermal baths; a great family activity. Open 6 AM to 10 PM.
HUF 7000 per adult, children discounted, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Menza Restaurant

Trendy spot offering Hungarian and international dishes, open until 11 PM.
HUF 9000, 1.5h

Day 10: Budapest Final Day

Budapest, Hungary on August 1, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at accommodation

Eat early before a day filled with sightseeing.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit Hungarian Parliament and Shoes on the Danube

See iconic Budapest landmarks; book Parliament tickets in advance for guided tours. Free outdoor landmark at Shoes on the Danube.
Parliament tour approx. HUF 4500, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Kiosk Budapest

Modern bistro near the river offering family-friendly meals, open 11 AM.
HUF 7000, 1h

1:30pm

Visit the Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden

Fun animal exhibits for kids of all ages, open 9 AM to 7 PM.
HUF 4000 adults, discounted children, 3h

5:00pm

Return to accommodation

Rest and relax.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gundel Restaurant

Experience classic Hungarian cuisine in an upscale family-friendly environment, open till 10 PM.
HUF 12000, 1.5h

Day 11: Drive to Vienna

Budapest to Vienna, Austria on August 2, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast at accommodation

Fuel up before your drive to Vienna.
Included, 0.5h

7:30am

Drive to Vienna

Approximately 2.5 to 3 hour drive to Austria’s capital city. Stop for quick breaks as needed.
Tolls and vignette fees apply, 3h

11:00am

Check-in at Vienna accommodation

Settle in and refresh at your family-friendly hotel.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Café Central

Historic Viennese café with pastries and lunch options, open from 8 AM.
EUR 50, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Innere Stadt and St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Walk through Vienna’s historic center visiting iconic sites. Cathedral open 6 AM to 10 PM, towers may require ticket.
Cathedral free; tower EUR 6, 2h

5:00pm

Relaxation and ice cream at Demel

Famous pastry shop for sweet treats, open till 7 PM.
EUR 15, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Plachutta Wollzeile

Traditional Viennese cuisine specializing in Tafelspitz, family friendly, open till 11 PM.
EUR 90, 1.5h

Day 12: Vienna Museums & Parks

Vienna, Austria on August 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby bakery

Start your day with fresh coffee and local pastries.
EUR 20, 1h

9:30am

Visit Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens

Tour the former imperial summer residence and explore beautiful gardens. Palace opens at 8 AM, closes at 5 PM.
Palace tickets approx. EUR 20, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Café Residenz within palace grounds

Taste Austrian dishes and desserts in a palatial setting.
EUR 40, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Tiergarten Schönbrunn (Zoo)

Oldest zoo in the world with family-friendly exhibits, open until 6 PM.
EUR 22 adults, kids discounted, 2h

5:00pm

Return and rest at accommodation

Relax before dinner.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gasthaus Pöschl

Traditional Viennese dishes in cozy atmosphere, open till 10 PM.
EUR 60, 1.5h

Day 13: Drive to Prague

Vienna to Prague, Czech Republic on August 4, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Fuel up early before your drive to Prague.
Included, 0.5h

7:30am

Drive from Vienna to Prague

Approximately 3.5 to 4 hour scenic drive; plan short breaks for family comfort.
Toll roads and vignette charges may apply, 4h

11:30am

Check-in at Prague accommodation

Settle into your centrally located family lodgings.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Lokal Dlouhaaa

Traditional Czech restaurant with a casual and family-friendly vibe, open from 11 AM.
CZK 300, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock

Explore Prague’s historic center with vibrant square and hourly clock show.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Leisurely walk on Charles Bridge

Iconic bridge with statues and views, perfect for family photos.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Mlejnice

Enjoy hearty Czech cuisine with family friendly options, open till 10 PM.
CZK 400, 1.5h

Day 14: Prague Castle Day

Prague, Czech Republic on August 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Savoy

Classic European café with pastries and breakfast dishes, opens at 8 AM.
CZK 250, 1h

9:30am

Tour Prague Castle complex

Visit the castle grounds, St. Vitus Cathedral, Golden Lane, and surrounding gardens. Tickets recommended; open 9 AM to 5 PM.
CZK 350 per adult, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Kuchyň

Traditional Czech food with a view near the castle area, open noon to 4 PM.
CZK 350, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Lesser Town (Malá Strana)

Historic district with charming streets and parks, great for families.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at U Modré Kachničky

Fine dining with classic Czech dishes in a cozy setting, opens till 10 PM.
CZK 500, 1.5h

Day 15: Parks & Museums

Prague, Czech Republic on August 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast near accommodation

Casual breakfast to begin your day.
CZK 200, 1h

9:30am

Visit National Museum

Explore Czech history and natural science exhibits, open 10 AM to 6 PM.
CZK 250 per adult, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Bakeshop

Family-friendly bakery and café with sandwiches and pastries, open from 7 AM.
CZK 150, 1h

1:30pm

Relax at Letná Park

Spacious park with playgrounds and great city views, perfect for kids.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Visit the Lennon Wall and nearby Kampa Island

Colorful graffiti wall and relaxed riverside park, great for family strolls.
Free, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at V Kolkovně

Popular Czech restaurant known for its family friendly atmosphere and traditional fare, open till 10 PM.
CZK 350, 1.5h

Day 16: Final Prague Day

Prague, Czech Republic on August 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Eska

Trendy bakery and café with fresh pastries and local flavors, opens at 8 AM.
CZK 200, 1h

9:30am

Boat tour on the Vltava River

Relaxing family-friendly sightseeing cruise offers unique views of Prague’s skyline.
CZK 300 per person, 1.5h

11:30am

Visit Prague Zoo

Top-rated zoo with diverse animal exhibits and kid-friendly attractions, open 9 AM to 6 PM.
CZK 250 adults, discounted kids, 3h

3:00pm

Rest at accommodation

Prepare for next day drive to Krakow.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Lokál U Bílé Kuželky

Casual Czech dining with good local food and family-friendly environment.
CZK 300, 1.5h

Day 17: Drive to Krakow

Prague to Krakow, Poland on August 8, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Enjoy quick breakfast before your drive.
Included, 0.5h

7:30am

Drive from Prague to Krakow

Approximate 5 to 5.5 hour drive back to Poland. Plan rest breaks as needed.
Tolls may apply, 5.5h

1:00pm

Check-in at Krakow accommodation

Settle in for your final 4-day stay in Krakow.
Free, 1h

2:30pm

Lunch at Pod Wawelem Restaurant

Popular spot for traditional Polish cuisine in a family-friendly setting, open noon to 10 PM.
PLN 120, 1.5h

4:30pm

Stroll Wawel Castle grounds

Enjoy the parks and external areas of the historic castle complex.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Miod Malina

Cozy restaurant with Polish and European dishes, family friendly.
PLN 100, 1.5h

Day 18: Krakow Old Town

Krakow, Poland on August 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Charlotte Bakery

Well-known bakery with fresh bread and breakfast dishes open 7 AM.
PLN 30, 1h

9:30am

Explore Krakow’s Main Market Square

Visit cloth hall, and historic sights; enjoy street performances and markets.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Chimera Restaurant

Casual dining with Polish and European cuisine.
PLN 90, 1h

2:00pm

Visit St. Mary's Basilica

Explore the famous church interior and listen to the hourly trumpet call.
PLN 10 per adult, 1h

3:30pm

Optional family bike tour

Bike around city parks and along Vistula River; bike rental available nearby.
PLN 50 per bike, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Wierzynek Restaurant

Historic fine dining with Polish cuisine, offering a family-friendly environment.
PLN 150, 1.5h

Day 19: Krakow Culture Day

Krakow, Poland on August 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Enjoy your final breakfast in Krakow at your hotel or apartment.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit Oskar Schindler’s Factory Museum

Learn about Krakow’s history during WWII through this engaging museum experience. Open 9 AM to 6 PM.
PLN 28 per adult, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Gościnna Chata

Traditional Polish mountain-style cuisine in a rustic setting, open 11 AM to 9 PM.
PLN 80, 1h

1:30pm

Walk along Vistula River boulevards

Relax with family walks and views of Wawel Castle from across the river.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Pack and prepare for departure

Rest and ready for your journey home.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Final dinner at Pod Baranem

Classic Polish dishes with a warm family atmosphere, open until 10 PM.
PLN 120, 1.5h