5 day itinerary for Budapest, Karkow

Itinerary

A 5-day trip to Budapest and Krakow sounds like a fantastic adventure! Both cities are rich in history, culture, and delicious food. Let’s create a relaxed itinerary that allows you to soak in the sights without feeling rushed.

## Day 1: Arrival in Budapest

Morning:

• Arrive in Budapest and check into your hotel. Take a moment to freshen up and maybe grab a coffee at a nearby café.

Afternoon:

• Start your exploration with a leisurely stroll along the Danube River. Head towards the iconic Chain Bridge and snap some photos!
• Visit Buda Castle. You can take the funicular up for a scenic ride. Explore the castle grounds and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.

Evening:

• Have dinner at a traditional Hungarian restaurant. Try goulash or chimney cake for dessert!
• If you’re up for it, take a relaxing evening cruise on the Danube to see the city illuminated at night. It’s magical!

## Day 2: Budapest Exploration

Morning:

• After breakfast, visit the stunning Parliament Building. Make sure to book a guided tour in advance to learn about its history.

Afternoon:

• Head to the nearby Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial, a poignant tribute to the victims of WWII.
• Spend the afternoon at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath. Relax in the thermal pools and enjoy the beautiful architecture.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner in the Jewish Quarter. There are plenty of trendy ruin bars and restaurants to choose from. Don’t miss trying some local wines!

## Day 3: More of Budapest & Travel to Krakow

Morning:

• Visit the Great Market Hall for breakfast. Sample local delicacies and maybe pick up some souvenirs.

Afternoon:

• Take a leisurely walk through the historic streets of Pest, visiting St. Stephen’s Basilica. Climb to the dome for a stunning view of the city.
• In the late afternoon, catch a train or a short flight to Krakow. The journey is about 7 hours by train, so you might want to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Evening:

• Arrive in Krakow and check into your hotel. Take a stroll around the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
• Have dinner at a local Polish restaurant. Try pierogi or bigos!

## Day 4: Discovering Krakow

Morning:

• Start your day with a visit to Wawel Castle. Explore the grounds and don’t miss the Cathedral.

Afternoon:

• Head to Kazimierz, the historic Jewish Quarter. Visit the synagogues and enjoy lunch at one of the charming cafés.
• Spend some time at the Oskar Schindler Factory Museum to learn about Krakow’s WWII history.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner in Kazimierz, where you can find a mix of traditional and modern Polish cuisine.

## Day 5: Day Trip from Krakow

Morning:

• Take a day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau. It’s a somber but important experience. Make sure to book a guided tour in advance.

Afternoon:

• After your visit, return to Krakow and take some time to relax. Maybe grab a coffee at a local café and reflect on the day.

Evening:

• For your last night, enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city. Celebrate your trip with some local vodka or a nice dessert!

Tips for a Relaxed Pace:

• Don’t hesitate to take breaks and enjoy the local atmosphere.
• Use public transport or walk to explore the cities at your own pace.
• Keep your evenings free for spontaneous discoveries or just to unwind.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a wonderful and relaxed trip to Budapest and Krakow! Enjoy every moment! 🌍✈️