Budapest to Istanbul
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a thrilling 13-day journey that takes you through the heart of Eastern Europe, from the enchanting city of Budapest to the vibrant city of Istanbul. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine. Explore the charming streets of Budapest, taste traditional Romanian wine at the Balla Géza Winery, and immerse yourself in the medieval architecture of Sighișoara. Discover the preserved medieval city of Brasov, visit the picturesque Bran Castle, and soak in the eclectic mix of Sofia. Wander through the ancient city of Plovdiv before ending your journey in the bustling city of Istanbul. This tour is designed to give you a taste of the region's diverse culture, history, and gastronomy.
Included
12 breakfasts, 1 dinner
jain, vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, meat
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.
Hotels/pensions (11 nts), guest lodge (1 nt).
Train, public bus, private vehicle, metro, walking.
Your G for Good Moment: Nem Adom Fel Café and Bar, Budapest
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group. Budapest orientation walk. Visit to the Balla Géza Winery. Half-day tour of Sighisoara and surrounding countryside villages. 'Dracula's Castle' (Bran). Bucharest orientation tour. Hike to Arbanasi village. Sofia orientation walk. Istanbul city tour with local guide. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Budapest
- Budapest - Arrival day
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Welcome to Budapest! Arrive at any time and prepare for an evening welcome meeting. We recommend booking pre-accommodation to fully explore this breathtaking city.
Day 2 – Day 2: Budapest to Balla Géza Winery
- Budapest
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- Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest
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Start your day by exploring Budapest. Later, visit the G Adventures-supported Nem Adom Fel Café and Bar. Leave Budapest and travel to the Balla Géza Winery for a wine tasting and traditional Romanian dinner. Overnight at the winery's guesthouse.
Day 3 – Day 3: Balla Géza Winery to Sighișoara
- Sighișoara
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After breakfast at the winery, travel to the enchanting town of Sighișoara. Spend your free time exploring the cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and sampling some Romanian cuisine.
Day 4 – Day 4: Sighișoara to Brasov
- Sighișoara
- Brasov
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Venture into the Romanian countryside with a local guide to visit traditional villages. Enjoy a half-day guided tour of Sighisoara and nearby countryside. In the early evening, transfer to the city of Brasov, the best preserved medieval city in Romania.
Day 5 – Day 5: Exploring Brasov
- Brasov
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- Bran Castle
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Visit the picturesque Bran Castle and learn about its history and folklore. Soak in the gorgeous countryside as you learn about the creepier side of Romania.
Day 6 – Day 6: Brasov to Bucharest
- Brasov
- Bucharest
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Travel to Bucharest and enjoy an orientation walk. Take time to explore the Soviet-esque architecture, the beautiful cathedral, or indulge in Bucharest's international cuisine.
Day 7 – Day 7: Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo
- Bucharest
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Travel from Bucharest to one of the oldest cities in the world, Veliko Tarnovo. Explore this charming town and opt to visit the Tsarevets Fortress just outside the city.
Day 8 – Day 8: Exploring Veliko Tarnovo
Day 8: Exploring Veliko Tarnovo
Spend the morning in the medieval town of Veliko Tarnovo. In the afternoon, visit the hilltop village of Arbanasi and soak in the views over Veliko Tarnovo.
Day 9 – Day 9: Veliko Tarnovo to Sofia
Day 9: Veliko Tarnovo to Sofia
Travel to Sofia and take an orientation walk of the capital city. Later, wander down the pedestrian street or visit the eclectic Ladies' Market. Sample modern takes on Bulgarian and international food, with some great trendy dining opportunities.
Day 10 – Day 10: Sofia to Plovdiv
Day 10: Sofia to Plovdiv
Travel to Plovdiv, Bulgaria's second-largest city. Visit the hilly old town, museums, or the Theatre of Ancient Philippopolis, one of the many Roman ruins found here. Opt to relax over coffee and a Bulgarian baklava, a specialty of the area.
Day 11 – Day 11: Plovdiv to Istanbul
- Istanbul
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Spend the morning exploring more of Plovdiv before boarding an afternoon bus to Istanbul.
Day 12 – Day 12: Exploring Istanbul
- Istanbul
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- Sultan Ahmed Mosque
- Grand Bazaar
- Hagia Sophia
- Topkapı Palace
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Enjoy a city tour with a local Turkish guide. Opt to visit the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, the Hagia Sophia, and the Topkapı Palace. Spend some free time visiting all you can in this eclectic city straddling two continents. In the evening, there are plenty of cool little bars and restaurants to celebrate the end of an amazing journey.
Day 13 – Day 13: Departure from Istanbul
- Istanbul - Departure day
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Your tour ends today. Depart at any time. We highly recommend you book post-accommodation to fully enjoy this vibrant city. Optional extras include an Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise.
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