The journey from Budapest to Istanbul is fast becoming one of Europe’s great cultural adventures, encompassing the unique traditions and lifestyles of Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria and Turkey. For this highlights-packed trip, we explore deeper than anyone else, spending more time in the traditional towns and villages of Hungary, which are too often bypassed, and exploring the great cities of Budapest, Sofia, Bucharest and Istanbul with the expert knowledge of our tour leader and plenty of other adventures along the way.
Activity Areas
Culture
Multi-Country Culture Holidays
Multi-Country Holidays
New Cultural Holidays
Region & Country & City
Europe: Bran, Bucharest, Budapest, Bulgaria, Hungary, Istanbul, Romania, Sofia, Turkey
Included in the Price
- All breakfasts included, two lunches and two dinners - All accommodation - Tour leader throughout - Group arrival and departure
Not Included In The Price
- Travel insurance - Visas and vaccinations - Single supplement
Accommodation Information
- Accommodation: 13 Classic nights (hotels) - Group normally 4 to 16, plus local leader. Minimum age: 16
Itinerary
Day 1 Adventure begins in Budapest
Begin your adventure in Budapest, capital of Hungary, where the Danube divides the city into historic Buda and lively Pest. Known for its thermal baths, ornate architecture, and cafe tradition dating to the 19th century, the city is a wonderful place to start our journey.
Around 6pm, say sziasztok (hello in Hungarian) to your tour leader and fellow travellers when we gather as a group for the first time to get to know each other and hear more about the adventures ahead.
Your tour leader then ensures a big Hungarian welcome by arranging a group dinner together.
Want more time in Budapest? Speak to your sales representative about booking extra nights before the tour.
Accommodation: Hotel Dormero (or similar)
Day 2 Walking tour of Budapest • Free afternoon
Join a local guide for a walking tour of Budapest’s highlights, the perfect way to get your bearings and hear the stories of the city.
This afternoon is free for you to pick your adventure. You might choose to relax in one of the city’s thermal baths, stroll along the Danube promenade, or visit the impressive Hungarian Parliament building.
Accommodation: Hotel Dormero (or similar)
Day 3 Explore the Palóc village of Hollókő • To the baroque city of Eger
Bid farewell to Budapest, transferring to Eger. En route, we take a detour to visit the World Heritage village of Hollókő, known for its well-preserved wooden architecture and rich Palóc culture. Explore the cobbled streets and visit the 13th-century hilltop castle, which offers lovely views of the countryside.
Continue to Eger after, celebrated for its baroque architecture and bold red wine known as egri bikavér or bull’s blood. Settle in for the night and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this picturesque town.
Total travel time: Four hours
Accommodation: Hotel Unicornis/Hotel Saliris Resort and Spa (or similar)
Day 4 Guided wine-tasting in Tokaj • Into the Maramureș region of Romania
Today brings the perfect opportunity to try Hungary’s most celebrated sweet wine, tokaji. Visit a cellar in the Tokaj wine region, known for its golden, dessert-style wines once prized by kings and emperors. Enjoy a tasting along with a light snack before continuing the journey.
In the afternoon, cross the border into Romania and step back in time as you enter the enchanting Maramureș region. This rural corner of northern Romania is known for its rolling green hills, wooden churches with tall spires, and a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
You’ll see traditional villages, horse-drawn carts still in daily use, and locals in hand-embroidered clothing, a rare glimpse into old-world Europe.
Total travel time: 6hr 30min
Accommodation: Hotel Gradina Morii (or similar)
Day 5 Explore the history and culture of rural Romania
Gain a deep understanding of rural Romanian culture and its remarkable resilience on an exploration of the Maramureș region.
Visit wooden churches and explore villages where each community showcases its unique style of dress, customs, and craftsmanship.
A highlight of today is Săpânța, home to the Merry Cemetery, where vibrant, poetic tombstones tell stories of the departed with humour and heart.
Accommodation: Hotel Gradina Morii (or similar)
Day 6 To Brasov • Explore Vlad the Impaler’s birthplace, Sighișoara
Embark on a scenic journey through the heart of Transylvania today, as we drive to Brasov. En route, we stop in Sighișoara to explore the World Heritage-listed historic centre, home to cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and a 14th-century clock tower. We have time for lunch and the opportunity to soak in the town’s unique atmosphere and learn about its history as the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, inspiration for the Dracula legend.
After, continue the journey to Brașov, a city at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains, known for its medieval walls, gothic Black Church, and lively old town.
Total travel time: Seven hours
Accommodation: Casa Wagner (or similar)
Day 7 Tour Peleș Castle • To Bucharest
We’re off to Peleș Castle today, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved royal residences in Romania. In the Carpathian Mountains, this neo-renaissance masterpiece was built in the late 19th century and features intricate architecture, lavish interiors, and beautiful gardens.
Continue to Bucharest, capital of Romania, after our exploration. Known as the Little Paris of Eastern Europe, it’s a mix of grand boulevards, leafy parks and historic churches.
Total travel time: Four hours
Accommodation: Hotel Central by Zeus (or similar)
Day 8 Walking tour of Bucharest’s highlights
Get to know Bucharest better during a guided walking tour with a local expert. Discover its fascinating history, from medieval origins to its transformation into the capital city, with highlights including the impressive Palace of the Parliament, one of the largest administrative buildings in the world.
Along the way, learn about Bucharest’s mix of architectural styles, including elegant neoclassical buildings and Soviet-era influences.
This tour will help you get your bearings and give you great ideas for exploring the city on your own during the free afternoon.
Accommodation: Hotel Central by Zeus (or similar)
Day 9 Explore the medieval architecture of Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria
Travel south across the Danube this morning, the natural border between Romania and Bulgaria. Our destination is Veliko Tarnovo, the historic capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire.
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the winding Yantra River, this city is known for its medieval architecture and rich history. In the afternoon, you may choose to visit the Tsarevets Fortress, a medieval stronghold that once served as a royal residence and offers views over the town and countryside.
Total travel time: Four hours
Accommodation: Hotel Panorama (or similar)
Day 10 Highlights of Sofia tour
Continue our journey to Sofia, the eclectic capital of Bulgaria. Here, we explore busy markets, lively cafes, and vibrant street art, while also diving into local culture by sampling traditional Bulgarian dishes or relaxing in one of the many cosy tavernas.
Also take time to visit the Central Market Hall for local crafts and treats, stroll through the peaceful Borisova Gradina park, or stop by the colourful Russian Church to admire beautiful frescoes. If you’re interested in history, don’t miss Serdika Metro Station, where ancient Roman ruins are integrated into the station’s design.
Total travel time: Four hours
Accommodation: Art Hotel 158 (or similar)
Day 11 Discover the ancient ruins of Plovdiv
Leave Sofia and drive to Plovdiv, one of the oldest cities in Bulgaria. Here, we join an expert local guide to learn the secrets of the city.
Our tour takes us to the wonderfully well-preserved ancient Roman amphitheatre of Philippopolis, built in the first century during the reign of emperor Trajan. We also visit the medieval Djumaya Mosque, the second-century Roman stadium, Nebet Tepe archaeological complex, and Antique Library.
Total travel time: Three hours
Accommodation: Hotel Hello (or similar)
Day 12 To Istanbul
It’s time to cross borders again as we head to Istanbul, Turkey. Sit back and relax as the landscape changes and you draw closer to the Bosphorus Strait, where Europe and Asia meet.
This transcontinental city is a cultural explorer’s dream, with ancient bazaars, grand mosques, and vibrant street life to discover. This evening, consider venturing to a lokanta to dine on delicious Turkish dishes, such as meze, kebabs, or sweet baklava.
Total travel time: 6hr 30min, depending on the duration of the border crossing
Accommodation: Hotel Manesol Galata (or similar)
Day 13 Discover the culture, grand architecture and heritage of Istanbul
Head into the city today with a local guide for an insider’s exploration of Istanbul. Visiting the main highlights, including the Sultanahmet area, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, and Topkapı Palace, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the city’s heritage and culture from someone who knows it intimately.
After, enjoy free time for last-minute shopping. Explore bustling bazaars or browse local shops for unique souvenirs. In the evening, gather for a special farewell dinner with your fellow travellers to celebrate the memories you’ve made.
Accommodation: Hotel Manesol Galata (or similar)
Day 14 Adventure ends in Istanbul
You’ve enjoyed insider access to four capital cities, explored World Heritage sites, and even visited the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, but now it’s time to begin your return journey home.
Alternatively, if you’d like to extend your adventure, speak to your sales representative to discuss our large range of extension options.
