Eastern Europe Itinerary Inspiration: 3 Unique Routes to Explore

Warsaw, Poland → Budapest, Hungary → Bucharest, Romania

This trip takes you from the heart of Poland to Hungary’s capital, and finally to Romania’s cultural hub. With relatively short flights between Warsaw and Budapest and Budapest to Bucharest, this journey is efficient and allows you to experience three of Eastern Europe’s most famous cities over the course of a single trip.

Warsaw

Warsaw is a city that has truly been reborn from its ashes. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was painstakingly reconstructed following World War II. Today, it stands as a symbol of the city’s resilience. Warsaw has a mix of classical, contemporary, and modern art, as well as access to numerous parks. Łazienki Park is a must-visit, as it is home to wandering peacocks that roam freely by the Chopin monument. Other notable attractions include:

• Visiting the Royal Castle in historic Old Town
• Learning about Poland’s World War II history at the Warsaw Uprising Museum
• Taking in views from the Palace of Culture and Science
• Strolling through Wilanów Palace, often considered Poland’s own Versailles

Budapest

Budapest is a dramatically beautiful city. Split by the Danube River, this city boasts a harmonious blend of old-world charm and modern edge. Famous for its thermal baths, Budapest is a nice spot to relax while exploring an array of architectural wonders. From the grandeur of its Parliament Building to glimpses of the sunrise or sunset from Fisherman’s Bastion, the city is a feast for the eyes. Some other highlights include:

• Exploring Buda Castle
• Indulging in Széchenyi Thermal Bath
• Cruising the Danube while spotting some of the city’s key landmarks
• Experiencing vibrant nightlife at a ruin bar

Bucharest

Bucharest has undergone a cultural renaissance in recent years. Today, the city is known for its thriving arts scene, energetic nightlife, and delicious cuisine. Dotted with an eclectic combination of Communist-era buildings and Belle Époque architecture, the city is a wonder to meander around. Spend your time here soaking in the history, walking the Old Town, and visiting the grand Palace of the Parliament—the second-largest administrative building in the world. Other things to do and see include:

• Attending a show at the Romanian Athenaeum, the city’s iconic concert hall
• Relaxing in Herăstrău Park
• Visiting Calea Victoriei, an elegant street lined with shops and cafes
• Visiting the Village Museum, an open-air institution showcasing traditional Romanian houses and rural architecture

Zagreb, Croatia → Dubrovnik, Croatia → Kotor, Montenegro

This itinerary is chock full of Mediterranean charm in beautiful destinations away from some of the region’s more crowded counterparts. Starting in Croatia’s capital, moving along the Adriatic coastline, and ending in Montenegro, this route has a range of experiences. Traveling between these cities is best done by car or night bus, making this multi-city route ideal for vacationers looking for a more leisurely travel experience.

Zagreb

Zagreb is Croatia’s cultural and political center. The city is a great introduction to Croatia, and travelers should consider stopping to admire landmarks like the Zagreb Cathedral or spending time in one of the city’s many parks. With cobblestone streets, cozy cafes, and open-air markets, the city is both beautiful and full of life. Some musts for your to-do list include:

• Walking down Tkalčićeva Street, one of the city’s main streets lined with cafes, shops, restaurants, and street performers
• Shopping at Dolac Market, which has fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade goods
• Exploring the Museum of Broken Relationships, a quirky museum that showcases personal items and stories from failed relationships
• Visiting Ban Jelačić Square in the heart of Zagreb

Dubrovnik

Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik is a stunningly well-preserved city located right on the coast. In recent years, tourism has dramatically increased as the city was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones due to its medieval architecture and towering city walls. Despite more international fame, the city has retained its laid-back atmosphere. Visitors should consider:

• Walking along the picturesque City Walls for panoramic views of the city and sea
• Checking out the famous Stradun pedestrian street in Old Town
• Climbing up Fort Lovrijenac for a bird’s eye view
• Taking a boat trip to Lokrum Island to marvel at gardens and roaming peacocks

Kotor

Kotor is located at the southern tip of the Bay of Kotor surrounded by dramatic mountains. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town blends Venetian and medieval architectural influences, offering a great atmosphere reminiscent of a different time. While tourism has increased in recent years, mainly by cruise ship, Kotor is still a peaceful, quiet place to take in natural scenery. Some of the best things to do in Kotor include:

• Hiking up to Kotor Fortress for breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor and mountains
• Relaxing on the shores of Kotor Beach
• Taking a scenic boat ride around the bay
• Walking through Old Town’s narrow streets to St. Tryphon Cathedral

Prague, Czech Republic → Bratislava, Slovakia → Krakow, Poland

This route connects three of Central and Eastern Europe’s most fascinating cities. Whether you’re hopping on a train for the four-hour ride from Prague to Bratislava or taking a bus from Bratislava to Krakow, this itinerary allows you to experience three capital cities that have been shaped by centuries of European history.

Prague

Called the “City of a Hundred Spires,” Prague boasts a large array of medieval architecture. From the Prague Castle to the Charles Bridge, this city feels like a fairy tale brought to life. The city also has a large beer culture, so it’s the perfect place to enjoy some refreshing Czech brews in a beer garden. Other sights and activities include:

• Taking a boat cruise on the Vltava River to see Prague’s skyline
• Admiring the beauty of Old Town and the famous Astronomical Clock
• Climbing the Powder Gate Tower, a gothic landmark with great views of the city
• Enjoying a fresh brew in one of Prague’s famous beer gardens

Bratislava

Bratislava is a truly underrated Eastern European city. Though it is Slovakia’s capital, it is a much smaller capital city than others in the region. Beautifully preserved, Bratislava is ideal for travelers on a budget, and away from boisterous crowds, the city offers a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path experience. Visitors will love:

• Venturing into Old Town, Bratislava’s historic center
• Taking in views from the UFO Observation Deck on the New Bridge
• Exploring the city’s underground art scene, known for hidden graffiti and awe-inspiring murals
• Touring the Old Market Hall to sample local Slovak delicacies and buy handmade wares

Krakow

Krakow is one of Poland’s most historic cities. Aside from its preserved Old Town and rich cultural heritage, the city is also close to important sites like the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial. Those with familial ties to the region or interest in its World War II prevalence should make the trip. Some of the best things to do include:

• Visiting Oskar Schindler’s Factory, a museum detailing the Krawkow’s World War II history and ties to the Holocaust
• Checking out Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with underground chapels, sculptures, and tunnels
• Going to the Czartoryski Museum, home to Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting Lady with an Ermine
• Shopping at Main Market Square, one of Europe’s largest medieval squares