Budapest to Istanbul Adventure

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. Stay: Hotel Dormero (or similar) (D).

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. Stay: Hotel Dormero (or similar) (B).

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. Stay: Hotel Unicornis/Hotel Saliris Resort and Spa (or similar) (B).

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. Stay: Hotel Gradina Morii (or similar) (B/L).

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. Stay: Hotel Gradina Morii (or similar) (B/L).

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. Stay: Casa Wagner (or similar) (B).

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. Stay: Hotel Central by Zeus (or similar) (B).

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. Stay: Hotel Central by Zeus (or similar) (B).

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. Stay: Hotel Panorama (or similar) (B).

Continue to Sofia, the eclectic capital of Bulgaria. Here, our tour leader guides an orientation tour, taking in 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 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. Stay: Art Hotel 158 (or similar) (B).

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. Stay: Hotel Hello (or similar) (B).

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. Stay: Hotel Manesol Galata (or similar) (B).

Head into the city for a sightseeing tour with a local guide, stopping at the city highlights, including the Sultanahmet area, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, and Topkapı Palace. Viewing these landmarks from the outside, we gain a deeper understanding of Istanbul from someone who knows it intimately. After, enjoy free time to explore bustling bazaars or browse local shops for unique souvenirs.

In the evening, gather for a special farewell dinner with the group to celebrate the memories we've made together. Stay: Hotel Manesol Galata (or similar) (B/D).

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 (B).