Extended 2.5-Week Budget-Friendly European Train Journey: Paris to Bucharest via Geneva, Zurich, Munich, Vienna & Budapest

Day 1: Arrival and Leisure

Paris, France on June 23, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café de Flore

Begin your journey with a classic Parisian breakfast featuring fresh croissants and café au lait at this iconic café open from 7:30am.
EUR12, 1h

10:30am

Relax and walk along the Seine

Acclimate to Paris with a leisurely stroll along the Seine riverbanks, taking in scenic views and street performances.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Light lunch at Le Petit Cler

Enjoy affordable French bistro fare in a lively street setting, perfect for a light midday meal.
EUR18, 1h

3:00pm

Visit the Luxembourg Gardens

Relax in one of Paris's most beautiful parks, open until dusk, offering serene ponds and sculptures.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Bouillon Pigalle

Sample traditional French dishes at a budget-friendly price, open until 10:00pm.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 2: Museum Day

Paris, France on June 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local bakery

Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee at a nearby bakery before a day of museum visits.
EUR6, 1h

9:00am

Visit the Louvre Museum

Explore the diverse and world-renowned art collections. The museum opens at 9:00am.
EUR15, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Café Marly

Have a reasonably priced meal overlooking the Louvre courtyard, open 12pm-3pm for lunch.
EUR20, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Musée d'Orsay

Discover impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces; open 9:30am-6pm Tues-Sun.
EUR14, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte

Enjoy affordable steak-frites in a classic Parisian atmosphere, open until 11pm.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 3: Iconic Sights

Paris, France on June 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Angelina

Famous for its hot chocolate and pastries, ideal for a hearty start; opens at 8am.
EUR15, 1h

9:30am

Eiffel Tower and Champ de Mars

Visit Paris’s most iconic landmark; tickets for summit available online. Grounds accessible anytime.
EUR30, 2h

12:00pm

Picnic lunch at Champ de Mars

Grab supplies from a nearby market and enjoy a budget-friendly picnic with a view of the Eiffel Tower.
EUR10, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Explore the artsy Montmartre district and climb to the basilica for stunning city views, free entry.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Le Refuge des Fondus

Experience a fun fondue dinner at this lively and budget-friendly spot in Montmartre, open until 11pm.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 4: Train to Geneva

Paris to Geneva on June 26, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast at local café

Light breakfast near the hotel before departure.
EUR5, 45m

8:30am

Train from Paris to Geneva

Direct train journey lasting approximately 3h45m to Geneva's main station.
EUR45, 3h45m

12:30pm

Lunch at Café du Soleil

Enjoy traditional Swiss fondue and local dishes at a reasonable price, open from 11:30am.
CHF25, 1h

2:00pm

Settle into accommodation and local market visit

Unpack and explore Geneva’s local markets for snacks and souvenirs.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Evening walk by Lake Geneva

Relax with a scenic walk along the lake and watch the sunset by Jet d'Eau, accessible anytime.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Chez Ma Cousine

Simple and affordable roasted chicken dinner at this popular local restaurant, open until 9:30pm.
CHF20, 1h
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Day 5: Geneva Exploration

Geneva, Switzerland on June 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mövenpick Café

Start with a budget-friendly Swiss breakfast for a filling start; opens 7am.
CHF10, 1h

9:30am

United Nations Office tour

Take a guided tour of the UN headquarters, advance booking recommended; open 9am-11:30am.
CHF15, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Buvette des Bains

Affordable lakeside snacks and meals at a local hangout near the Bains des Pâquis, open noon-6pm.
CHF15, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Museum of Natural History

Explore fascinating natural exhibits, open 10am-5pm, with low admission fees.
CHF5, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Parc des Bastions

Enjoy chess games and peaceful gardens in this central park.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte

Dine on affordable steak-frites with a lively atmosphere, open until 10pm.
CHF30, 1h30m
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Day 6: Outdoor & Local Life

Geneva, Switzerland on June 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local bakery

Grab fresh pastries and coffee to start the day affordably.
CHF7, 45m

9:00am

Cycle or walk the promenade around Lake Geneva

Rent a bike or walk to enjoy views and nature around Europe’s largest Alpine lake.
CHF15, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Parc la Grange Café

Budget-friendly meals in a beautiful public park setting, open 11am-3pm weekdays.
CHF20, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Carouge district

Explore Geneva’s bohemian quarter with artisan shops and cafés.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Cafe de la Presse

Enjoy local dishes and people-watch in a lively bistro, open till 10pm.
CHF25, 1h30m
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Day 7: Train to Zurich

Geneva to Zurich on June 29, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local café

Fill up before travel with a simple breakfast.
CHF7, 45m

8:30am

Train from Geneva to Zurich

Scenic train ride through Switzerland to Zurich, lasting about 2h40m.
CHF30, 2h40m

11:15am

Check-in and lunch at Hiltl

Enjoy Europe’s oldest vegetarian restaurant with affordable buffet options, open 11:30am onward.
CHF20, 1h

1:00pm

Visit Lake Zurich and Old Town

Walk lakeside promenades and explore narrow, historic Altstadt streets with free access all day.
Free, 3h

4:30pm

Swiss National Museum

Learn about Switzerland’s heritage in this well-curated museum, open until 5pm.
CHF10, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Sternen Grill

Try Zurich sausages and local dishes affordably, restaurant open till 9pm.
CHF18, 1h
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Day 8: Zurich Culture & Nature

Zurich, Switzerland on June 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Sprüngli

Taste Swiss chocolate and pastries, perfect for starting the day.
CHF15, 1h

9:30am

Uetliberg Mountain Hike

Take a train or hike to enjoy panoramic views over Zurich and the Alps, free hiking paths.
CHF10 for train, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch in Uetliberg restaurant

Relax with local Swiss fare and spectacular views, moderately priced midday meals.
CHF25, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Kunsthaus Zurich

Swiss and international art collection, open 10am-6pm, discounts available.
CHF16, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Kronenhalle

Affordably experience Swiss classics in a historic art-filled setting, open till 11pm.
CHF30, 1h30m
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Day 9: Zurich Leisure & Travel

Zurich, Switzerland to Munich, Germany on July 1, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Bakery near hotel

Quick and budget-friendly breakfast before departure.
CHF6, 30m

8:30am

Morning walk at Lindenhof Hill

Enjoy great views and local history, free and accessible anytime.
Free, 1h

10:00am

Train from Zurich to Munich

About 4-hour journey to Munich Hauptbahnhof, comfortable and scenic.
EUR35, 4h

2:30pm

Check-in and rest

Settle into budget accommodation and refresh after arrival.
Varies, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Marienplatz and watch Glockenspiel

Central square and famous clock tower show at 5pm, free to watch.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Schneider Bräuhaus Munich

Sample Bavarian classics affordably in a historic setting, open until 10pm.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 10: Munich Museums & Gardens

Munich, Germany on July 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at local bakery

Hearty German breads and coffee to start the day.
EUR5, 45m

9:00am

Visit Deutsches Museum

One of the world’s largest science and technology museums, open from 9am to 5pm; discounted entrance for solo travelers.
EUR14, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Viktualienmarkt

Explore a diverse food market offering affordable and tasty options midday.
EUR12, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at English Garden

Peaceful park ideal for walking or renting a bike, open all day and free entry.
Free, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Augustiner-Keller

Traditional Bavarian dishes and beer in a famous beer garden, budget-friendly, open nightly until 11pm.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 11: Day Trip from Munich

Munich, Germany on July 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or bakery

Start early with a simple and affordable breakfast.
EUR5, 45m

8:00am

Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

Take train and bus to visit the famously picturesque castle; guided tours available with prior booking.
Train+Bus EUR30, Castle Admission EUR15, 8h

5:30pm

Return to Munich and dinner at Hofbräuhaus

Enjoy traditional German food and lively atmosphere, open until midnight.
EUR22, 1h30m
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Day 12: Travel to Vienna

Munich to Vienna on July 4, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at local café

Fill up for a longer train journey with affordable breakfast options.
EUR6, 45m

8:00am

Train from Munich to Vienna

Scenic 4-hour train ride to Austria’s capital city.
EUR40, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Naschmarkt

Sample diverse, economical cuisine at Vienna’s famous food market, open until 7pm.
EUR12, 1h

2:00pm

Check-in and rest

Settle into budget accommodation and get ready for city exploration.
Varies, 1h30m

3:30pm

Visit Hofburg Palace and gardens

Tour the imperial palace, its museums open 9am-5:30pm; walk palace gardens freely anytime.
EUR15, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Zum Schwarzen Kameel

Taste traditional Austrian small plates and local wine, open till 10pm.
EUR18, 1h30m
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Day 13: Vienna Art & History

Vienna, Austria on July 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Central

Enjoy Viennese pastries and coffee in a historic coffeehouse, opens from 7:30am.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Visit Belvedere Palace

Explore Baroque palace museums and gardens featuring Klimt’s works, open 10am-6pm.
EUR15, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at a local beisl

Try affordable Austrian home-style cooking in a casual setting.
EUR12, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Kunsthistorisches Museum

World-class art and antiquities; entry discount with a combined ticket, open 10am-6pm.
EUR16, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Stadtpark

Enjoy famous statues and calm green space, perfect for afternoon downtime.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gasthaus Pöschl

Cozy eatery serving traditional dishes at a modest price, open until 10pm.
EUR18, 1h30m
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Day 14: Vienna Leisure and Markets

Vienna, Austria on July 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local bakery

Fresh breads and coffee to power your morning, budget-friendly.
EUR5, 45m

9:00am

Morning walk through Prater Park and Giant Ferris Wheel

Stroll or ride the famous Ferris wheel for panoramic city views, park open all day, ferris wheel from 10am.
EUR12, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Prater Park food stalls

Sample local street foods with budget prices.
EUR10, 1h

1:30pm

Explore the Museum Quarter

Visit multiple museums or enjoy café culture in the area; many museums offer discounted combined tickets.
EUR15, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Motto am Fluss

Casual riverside dining with reasonable prices, open till 11pm.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 15: Travel to Budapest

Vienna to Budapest, Hungary on July 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at local café

Light and affordable breakfast before train journey.
EUR6, 45m

8:00am

Train from Vienna to Budapest

Direct EuroCity train, approximately 2h40m journey, offering scenic views en route.
EUR20, 2h40m

11:00am

Check-in and lunch at Frici Papa Kifőzdéje

Affordable traditional Hungarian dishes in a well-loved local restaurant.
HUF2000, 1h

12:30pm

Visit Buda Castle District

Explore old castles, museums, and panoramic views of Budapest; castle grounds free, museums have small fees.
Free - HUF1500, 3h

4:00pm

Walk the Chain Bridge and Danube Promenade

Enjoy iconic views and vibrant city life along the river, accessible anytime.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mazel Tov

Trendy Middle Eastern cuisine in a lively atmosphere with budget-friendly options, open until 10pm.
HUF4000, 1h30m
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Day 16: Budapest Thermal & Culture

Budapest, Hungary on July 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café New York

A renowned and beautiful café offering budget-friendly morning options, open from 7am.
HUF1500, 1h

9:30am

Relax at Széchenyi Thermal Bath

One of Europe’s largest thermal baths; open 6am-10pm with affordable entry tickets.
HUF4500, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at nearby local eatery

Simple Hungarian dishes close to the baths for convenience and economy.
HUF2500, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Hungarian Parliament Building

Tour the stunning Parliament interiors with advance booking recommended; open 8am-6pm.
HUF3000, 1.5h

5:00pm

Stroll through City Park

Discover statues, Vajdahunyad Castle exterior, and peaceful nature paths, free entry anytime.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Paprika

Traditional Hungarian comfort food served reasonably, open until 9:30pm.
HUF3500, 1h30m
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Day 17: Budapest Leisure

Budapest, Hungary on July 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local market

Affordable breakfast with fresh local produce in a lively market setting.
HUF1200, 45m

9:00am

Walking tour of Jewish Quarter

Explore historical sites, synagogues, and trendy cafes; self-guided free tours recommended.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Mazel Tov or similar

Enjoy another meal in this stylish yet budget-conscious venue.
HUF4000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit House of Terror Museum

Gain insight into Hungary’s history under fascist and communist regimes; open 10am-6pm.
HUF3000, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Margaret Island

Peaceful park island with gardens, free entry open all day, ideal for a calm evening walk.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Gettó Gulyás

Authentic Hungarian goulash in a welcoming and wallet-friendly spot, open until 10pm.
HUF3500, 1h30m
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Day 18: Train to Bucharest

Budapest to Bucharest, Romania on July 10, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at accommodation or café

Simple breakfast before early train departure.
HUF1200, 45m

8:00am

Train from Budapest to Bucharest

Daytime train journey approximately 13 hours long; advance reservations recommended.
EUR35, 13h

9:00pm

Arrival in Bucharest and check-in

Settle at a budget hotel or hostel after the long trip.
Varies, Rest
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Day 19: Bucharest Introduction

Bucharest, Romania on July 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Caru' cu Bere

Enjoy a traditional Romanian breakfast at this historic restaurant open from 7am.
RON25, 1h

9:30am

Visit Palace of the Parliament

Tour the enormous and impressive Parliament building; guided tours run 10am-4pm.
RON60, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at La Mama

Comfortable setting serving affordable Romanian specialties, open until 4pm.
RON35, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Old Town Lipscani

Wander the charming streets full of shops, cafés, and history; free to explore any time.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Hanu' lui Manuc

Dine on traditional cuisine in one of Bucharest’s oldest inns, budget-friendly options available.
RON50, 1h30m
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Day 20: Bucharest Parks & Museums

Bucharest, Romania on July 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local café

Begin with Romanian coffee and pastries for an affordable start.
RON15, 45m

9:00am

Visit the Village Museum (Muzeul Satului)

Open air museum showcasing traditional Romanian village life; open 9am-6pm, low-cost entry.
RON15, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch nearby village museum

Simple local fare near the museum for budget travelers.
RON20, 1h

2:00pm

Relax in Herăstrău Park

Enjoy one of Bucharest’s largest parks, walking paths, and lakeside views; open all day, free entry.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Visit National Museum of Art

Discover Romanian and European art, open 10am-6pm with affordable admission fees.
RON20, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Energiea

Trendy gastropub with reasonably priced meals and drinks, open late.
RON40, 1h30m
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Day 21: Departure or Further Travel

Bucharest, Romania on July 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and packing

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and prepare for your onward journey.
RON20, 1h

Variable

Travel onward or departure

Head to Bucharest airport or train station for your next destination.
Varies, Varies
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