Budapest to Istanbul
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the heart of Eastern Europe, exploring the rich history, vibrant cultures, and stunning landscapes of Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, and Turkey. From the charming streets of Budapest to the ancient wonders of Istanbul, this journey offers a perfect blend of guided tours, cultural experiences, and free time to discover each destination at your own pace. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, delicious local cuisine, and the expertise of local guides as you traverse this captivating region. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, this tour promises an enriching and memorable experience.
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
Istanbul
Budapest
Brasov
Sighișoara
BucharestMap
Attractions
Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest
Sultan Ahmed Mosque
Grand Bazaar
Hagia Sophia
Topkapı Palace
Bran CastleDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Budapest
- Budapest - Arrival day
- More
- Tragor Ignác Múzeum Memento Mori/Ars Memorandi Kiállítóhely
- More
Arrive at any time in the stunning city of Budapest. There are no scheduled activities until an evening welcome meeting, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore this breathtaking city at your own pace. Consider booking pre-accommodation to fully immerse yourself in the charm of Budapest.
Day 2 – Day 2: Budapest to Balla Géza Winery
- Budapest
- More
- Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest
- More
Spend your morning exploring the charming streets of Budapest. After checking out, visit the Nem Adom Fel Café and Bar, a G Adventures-supported social enterprise, for a drink and a bite to eat. Later, travel to the Balla Géza Winery in Romania for a delightful wine tasting and a traditional Romanian dinner. Overnight at the winery's guesthouse.
Day 3 – Day 3: Balla Géza Winery to Sighișoara
- Sighișoara
- More
After breakfast at the winery, travel to the enchanting town of Sighișoara. Spend your free time exploring the cobblestone streets and medieval architecture of this charming town. Don't miss the opportunity to dine at Casa Dracula, the original home of Vlad the Impaler, now a restaurant specializing in regional cuisine.
Day 4 – Day 4: Sighișoara to Brasov
- Sighișoara
- Brasov
- More
- Status Quo Synagogue
- More
Join a local guide for a half-day tour of the Sighișoara region, visiting traditional villages and fortified churches. In the early evening, transfer to Brasov, Romania's best-preserved medieval city. Enjoy the beautiful rolling scenery and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Day 5 – Day 5: Explore Bran Castle
- Brasov
- More
- Bran Castle
- More
Visit the picturesque Bran Castle, famously associated with the Dracula legend. Learn about the history and folklore of this 14th-century castle, impressively situated on a rock outcrop. Enjoy the stunning countryside views as you delve into the intriguing stories of Romania's past.
Day 6 – Day 6: Journey to Bucharest
- Brasov
- Bucharest
- More
- George Enescu National Museum
- More
Travel to Bucharest and enjoy an orientation walk with your CEO. Explore the city's Soviet-esque architecture, beautiful cathedral, and diverse international cuisine. Take time to discover the unique charm of Romania's capital city.
Day 7 – Day 7: Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo
- Bucharest
- More
Spend the morning exploring more of Bucharest before traveling to Veliko Tarnovo, one of the oldest cities in the world. Wander through the medieval town, visit museums, and sample Bulgarian cuisine. Consider visiting the Tsarevets Fortress just outside the city.
Day 8 – Day 8: Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi
Day 8: Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi
- Ethno village Etar
- More
Enjoy the morning in the medieval town of Veliko Tarnovo. In the afternoon, visit the hilltop village of Arbanasi and soak in the stunning views over Veliko Tarnovo. Experience the rich history and culture of this picturesque region.
Day 9 – Day 9: Veliko Tarnovo to Sofia
Day 9: Veliko Tarnovo to Sofia
- Borisova Gradina Park
- More
Travel to Sofia and take an orientation walk of Bulgaria's capital city. Wander down the pedestrian street or visit the eclectic Ladies' Market. Sofia offers a mix of western grandeur and Soviet bulk, with a gold-domed church and delicious international dining options.
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, explore museums, or see the Theatre of Ancient Philippopolis, one of the many Roman ruins. Relax over coffee and a Bulgarian baklava, a local specialty.
Day 11 – Day 11: Plovdiv to Istanbul
- Istanbul
- More
Spend the morning exploring more of Plovdiv before boarding an afternoon bus to Istanbul. Enjoy the scenic journey and prepare to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this city that straddles two continents.
Day 12 – Day 12: Discover Istanbul
- Istanbul
- More
- Istanbul Aviation Museum
- More
Join a local Turkish guide for a city tour of Istanbul. Opt to visit iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, the Hagia Sophia, and the Topkapı Palace. Spend your free time exploring this eclectic city and celebrate the end of an amazing journey with a raki or two at a local bar.
Day 13 – Day 13: Departure from Istanbul
- Istanbul - Departure day
- More
Depart at any time. We highly recommend booking post-accommodation to fully enjoy this vibrant city. Consider pre-booking the Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise for an extended adventure. Your tour might be finished, but the memories and experiences will last a lifetime.
Similar tours
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.
