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Budapest to Venice

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Budapest to Venice

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Description

Take a journey through the many charms of Eastern Europe, then end it all in picturesque Italy with this 19-day trip that explores many highlights, natural wonders and vibrant cities. From the hearty cuisine of Hungary to the glamorous beaches of Split, explore the stunning alpine scenery of Slovenia, the walled city of Dubrovnik (Game of Thrones fans rejoice), the epic Danube River, the haven of fresh seafood in Croatia and the turquoise waters of Plitvice that look like they’re out of a fairytale. Dive into bucket list destinations and seldom-seen secrets with a local leader who has all the insights and unwind with loads of free time to choose to your own adventure.

Trip Name
Budapest to Venice
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
19
Capacity
16
Highlights
  • Stroll through Plitvice Lakes National Park – a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site – marvelling at luminous lakes and azure waterfalls that look like they’ve been sketched by an artist. 
  • Learn about the dark history and rebuilding of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Sarajevo, then visit Mostar’s famous Old Bridge to witness a traditional bridge jumper hurl themselves into the icy waters below.
  • Visit Novi Sad on the banks of the Danube River and maybe explore the Petrovaradin Fortress – one of the most important landmarks in the city with a great view over the river. Then, immerse yourself in the edgy street scene of Belgrade's Bohemian Quarter.
  • Relax and unwind in seaside Split – a haven of culture, good food and gorgeous scenery. Walk along the waterfront promenade and admire the impressive ruins of Diocletian's Palace.
  • Feast on Mediterranean fresh seafood, Italian-influenced antipasti and the crunchy, doughy dessert of fritule in the culinary capital of Croatia – Zagreb. Then if you like, explore the touching Museum of Broken Relationships. 

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk. COMBINATION TRIP Please note that this trip is a combination of two or more stand-alone trips. Your leader and the composition of the group will most likely change part-way through the trip. You can find details on where and on which day these changes are taking place in the daily itinerary. MUSEUM VISITS & OPENING TIMES Many sites, attractions and museums are closed on Mondays (and sometimes Tuesdays). We recommend checking the opening times of anywhere you're interested to visit and making reservations where required/possible.

Day 1 - Budapest
Szia! Welcome to Budapest, Hungary's vibrant capital. This city, split into two sides – Buda and Pest – sits right on the banks of the Danube River. Your adventure starts with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. After, maybe head out with your fellow travellers for dinner, then take a night walk along the Danube to see the buildings and bridges lit up in lights. Why not keep the night going in one of Budapest's ruin bars tonight, home to eclectic décor and a popular spot for a night out.
Day 2 - Novi Sad to Belgrade
This morning you’ll head to Belgrade – Serbia’s capital and one of the oldest cities in Europe. On the way, stop at Novi Sad on the banks of the Danube River. Head out on an orientation walk of the city with your local leader, then take a few hours to explore at your own pace. Maybe head to the Petrovaradin Fortress, one of the most important landmarks in the city, and enjoy the view over the river. There are also some great restaurants and cafes at the fortress where you can stop for lunch or a coffee. Then, continue to your destination – sitting at the junction of the Sava and the Danube, Belgrade is an important intersection between Eastern and Western Europe. Enjoy some free time to explore the city’s wide boulevards and squares, the historic green heart of Kalemegdan Park and Kalemegdan Fortress, which has overlooked the river for centuries. In the evening, head down to Skadarska Street in the bohemian quarter of Skadarlija to sample some authentic local food and enjoy the lively atmosphere in a place where Orthodox churches vie for space next to nightclubs.
Day 3 - Belgrade
Today is another day to discover Belgrade at your own pace. You might like to take a cruise along the Danube River, passing Kalemegdan Fortress, Pancevo Bridge and Zemun. Otherwise, the local market Zeleni Venac can keep you occupied for hours. Take a stroll through the Nikola Tesla Museum to learn about the life and work of Serbia's greatest inventor or check out the city's Ethnographic or Military museums. If the weather’s warm, you could brave the crowds on Ada Ciganlija beach, where you can swim, take up some water sports or soak up the sun. During summer, Belgrade hosts a variety of musical and cultural events, and the city is abuzz with people and activities.
Day 4 - Sarajevo
Travel through the countryside to Sarajevo this morning. The journey is long, so sit back and enjoy the scenery (and grab a window seat if you can!). Sarajevo is Bosnia and Herzegovina’s small but vibrant capital. The city often draws comparisons with Istanbul as a place that mixes east and west – dotted with minarets, mosques, bazaars and the aroma of coffee. When you arrive, maybe head on an optional guided tour to gain insight into the history and culture of the city and explore Bascarsija – Sarajevo's old bazaar. Tonight, maybe grab some of the local speciality – bosanski cevapi (local grilled and spiced meats).
Day 5 - Sarajevo
Enjoy a free day in and around Sarajevo today. You can take an optional day trip out to the thermal springs and green parks of Ilidza – the source of the Bosna River. You might prefer to discover local history with a visit to the History Museum, the Sarajevo War Tunnels and Sniper Alley, or learn about the tragedies faced by the city's Jews at the Jewish Museum. Maybe get cultural with a stroll through the Art Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina, or return to Bascarsija and get lost in the mosques, caravanserais and stone-vaulted bazaars while snacking on burek. The Pivnica HS brewery and restaurant is a good place to sample local award-winning beer and spend the night with your travel crew.
Day 6 - Mostar
This morning, travel to Mostar. On the way, stop at Tito's Bunker, named after the late leader of the communist country, for a 1.5-hour tour with a local guide. This underground facility served as Yugoslavia's ‘Atomic War Command,’ designed to house a skeleton government of 350 people who would manage the country in the event of nuclear war. Continue to Mostar – thanks to the river Neretva, this city was able to develop in the barren landscape of Herzegovina. When you arrive, maybe head to the famous Stari Most (Old Bridge), first built by the Ottomans in 1565 – it was the great architect Mimar Hajrudin who succeeded with the impossible mission to cross the Neretva River with a single span stone bridge. If you’re lucky, you might see the famous brave members of Mostar’s diving club hurl themselves into the icy waters below.
Day 7 - Kotor
This morning after breakfast, you’ll travel to Kotor. This fifth-century UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is set on a secluded bay, with towering peaks surrounding a rocky coastline dotted with waterside towns. When you arrive, explore Europe’s most southerly fjord, Boka Kotorska (Bay of Kotor) and Kotor town, with a free afternoon. Maybe check out the 12th-century Cathedral of St Tryphun, the South Gates of Kotor (the Gurdich Gate) and the Armoury Square (Trg od Oruzija).
Day 8 - Kotor
Today is another free day to get lost in the crooked alleyways of Kotor. Maybe check out the boutiques and cafes or climb the hills behind the city to visit Kotor's ruined fortification walls. A 1.5-hour hike up the stone steps, past churches, gates and bastions to the Fortress of Sveti Ivan at the top, rewards you with magnificent views across the town and the Bay of Kotor. Tonight, maybe hang out in a lookout spot and take in the lights – the city walls are lit up in the evening here to provide a unique night-time perspective.
Day 9 - Dubrovnik
Leave Montenegro by bus this morning, riding along the beautiful southern coast of Croatia to Dubrovnik. When you arrive, the day is free for you to explore this medieval city at your own pace. There is so much to see and do here, so ask your leader if you’re stuck for ideas. You might like to take a boat trip to nearby Lokrum Island, where you’ll find the French-built Fort Royal Castle, a monastery and a botanical garden that dates back to when the Austrian archduke Maximilian had his holiday home on the island. Tonight, maybe find a secluded beach spot to watch the sunset or enjoy a harbourside meal with the group for dinner.
Day 10 - Dubrovnik
You have a free day in Dubrovnik today. With the sparkling water of the Adriatic in the background, this city is picturesque and full of character, and its Old Town can easily be covered on foot. You’ll have another meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet the new members of your group. After, maybe head out for a walk around town or enjoy a meal with the group to get to know your new travel buddies.
Day 11 - Dubrovnik
This morning after breakfast, take a day trip to the Elafiti Islands – a small archipelago northwest of Dubrovnik, exploring churches and incredible views along the way. When you arrive at the beach, enjoy some free time to relax, swim, or find a good spot to settle for a couple of hours for a long lunch. After, return to Dubrovnik where you’ll have the late afternoon and night free. Walk along the city walls of ‘Game of Thrones’ fame, enjoying breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Visit Big Onofrio's Fountain, built by architect Onofrio della Cava in the 15th century to supply water to the city or check out the Franciscan monastery, home to one of the world's oldest continuously functioning pharmacies, founded in the 13th century. Tonight, kick back on Banje Beach or find a good spot with a sunset view for dinner.
Day 12 - Split
This morning travel up the coast to Split. If Dubrovnik is considered the heart of Dalmatia, Split is certainly the soul. On a small peninsula on the eastern shores of the Adriatic Sea, it's the second-largest city in Croatia. Enjoy a free afternoon in this stunning seaside town, exploring the historic streets and making sure you see the World Heritage-listed Diocletian's Palace. For a more in-depth introduction to the city, why not join an optional guided tour with a local guide? Dinner by the sea is recommended, whether you’re a fiend for fresh seafood or just want to catch the deep colours of the sunset.
Day 13 - Split
Enjoy a free day in Split today. At the heart of its atmospheric Old Town is a fascinating city-within-a-city – the remains of a third-century palace built for Roman Emperor Diocletian. Some places might have protected such an impressive complex in a museum, but not enigmatic Split. These ancient walls now house a vibrant mix of shops, cafes, restaurants and houses. Step back in time as you stroll the sprawling maze of passageways and courtyards – you’ll also find a 16th-century synagogue and a courtyard often filled with music. If your feet tire, why not sample Croatia’s fine coffee culture with a frothy kava from a cafe on the Riva waterfront promenade – a prime spot for people-watching. In the evening, Split boasts an increasingly bustling nightlife scene, so grab a few of your fellow travellers and hit the bars.
Day 14 - Plitvice Lakes National Park / Zagreb
Today you will visit one of Croatia's most beautiful sites – Plitvice Lakes National Park. The park was given UNESCO World Heritage status 20 years ago and is 19 hectares of wooded hills surrounding 16 stunning turquoise lakes, all connected by a series of waterfalls. The area is populated by deer, bears, wolves, boars and some rare bird species, and the thick, primeval forest vegetation of beech trees, fir spruce and white pine adds another element to the park's beauty. You’ll have free time to explore or simply follow your leader to see the best spots – all trails in the national park are well marked, so it's difficult to get lost (but make sure you follow the national park rules, which your leader will outline). Look to the canopy for over 120 species of birds, including hawks and owls. After your memorable visit to the lakes, you’ll drive to Croatia's capital Zagreb.
Day 15 - Zagreb
This morning after breakfast, take an orientation walk with your leader as they point out the local amenities and attractions in Zagreb. For lunch, you’ll head to Dolac Market – the main market in the city and a great spot to pick up local favourites. The upper level offers seasonal fruits, vegetables, preserves and olive oil and the bottom level sells cheese and meats. Stop by a bakery for a taste of cevapcici (grilled minced meat) – a traditional market snack. The rest of the day is free, so you might want to check out the gothic Zagreb Cathedral, with its twin spires that dominate the city's skyline. Maybe start at Ban Jelacic Square, the city's central point, and visit one of the excellent museums like the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships.
Day 16 - Ljubljana
Travel by train this morning across the Slovenian border and arrive in the cosmopolitan capital of Ljubljana (pronounced 'Lyub-Li-Yana'). Check in to your accommodation and then head out on a short orientation walk with your leader. The rest of the day is free for you to delve deeper into this beautiful city. Located in the centre of Slovenia, Ljubljana is a city full of style and sophistication, history, monuments, churches, museums and great restaurants. Maybe wander around the old city centre, renowned for its unique architectural appearance. The Old Town consists of three main squares and Baroque houses, and you can visit the Ljubljana Castle, the Town Hall, the Cathedral of St Nicholas, and the Dragon Bridge. Stop at the central Preseren Square, dedicated to the Slovenian romantic poet France Preseren.
Day 17 - Ljubljana
Today is a free day to explore Ljubljana further. You have the option of heading on a day trip to Bled – gifted with immense natural beauty, Bled ranks among the most beautiful of alpine resorts. Its fairy tale-like scenery includes a castle, a stunning lake and a picturesque island topped with a church, which is a dream to explore. Take a Pletna boat ride (a wooden, awning-covered boat rowed by a special oarsman) across sparkling Lake Bled to its island, then climb the 99 steps to St Mary's Church. Be sure to seek out the famous Bled cream cake, too – nearly every cafe and cake shop in town claims their cream cake is the best! There's also plenty of action for adrenaline junkies on offer today, like rafting, caving, cycling, canoeing, boating or swimming.
Day 18 - Venice
This morning, travel by bus to one of the world's most unique and romantic destinations – Venice. Renowned for its canals, Venice comprises hundreds of small islands connected by nearly 400 bridges. Its famous sights – such as the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge, Doge's Palace (the ruler of Venice), the Piazza San Marco and the evocative Bridge of Sighs – are easily explored by foot. Don't miss the chance to take a gondola ride through the romantic canals! It’s also heavily recommended that you sample a slice of tiramisu (coffee-soaked sponge cake), the region’s specialty. Tonight, maybe join your fellow travellers for dinner and try two other local specialities – fresh lobster and squid ink pasta. 
Day 19 - Venice
With no activities planned for today, you’re free to depart the accommodation any time after check-out. Venice is a charming city with lots to do, so it’s highly recommended that you stay an extra day or two. If you would like to spend more time in Venice, just speak to your booking agent.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
03-05-202521-05-2025AUD $ 4,318-
17-05-202504-06-2025AUD $ 4,488-
31-05-202518-06-2025AUD $ 4,399-
14-06-202502-07-2025AUD $ 4,233-
08-07-202526-07-2025AUD $ 4,233-
15-07-202502-08-2025AUD $ 4,072-
29-07-202516-08-2025AUD $ 4,072-
12-08-202530-08-2025AUD $ 4,072-
19-08-202506-09-2025AUD $ 4,233-
02-09-202520-09-2025AUD $ 4,399-
16-09-202504-10-2025AUD $ 4,399-
27-09-202515-10-2025AUD $ 4,399-
02-05-202620-05-2026AUD $ 5,030-
16-05-202603-06-2026AUD $ 5,230-
30-05-202617-06-2026AUD $ 5,230-
13-06-202601-07-2026AUD $ 5,230-
07-07-202625-07-2026AUD $ 5,030-
14-07-202601-08-2026AUD $ 5,030-
11-08-202629-08-2026AUD $ 5,030-
18-08-202605-09-2026AUD $ 5,030-
01-09-202619-09-2026AUD $ 5,230-
15-09-202603-10-2026AUD $ 5,230-

Accommodation

Hotel (9 nights),Hostel (5 nights),Pension (4 nights)

Transport

Train,Public bus,Private vehicle,Ferry,Metro,Taxi

Map

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