12 day itinerary for Easter Europe

Itinerary

A 12-day trip through Eastern Europe sounds like a fantastic adventure. Let’s create a relaxed itinerary that allows you to soak in the culture, history, and beauty of the region. I’ll include some must-see sights, leisurely activities, and a bit of local flavor. Here we go!

## Day 1: Arrival in Budapest, Hungary

• Morning: Arrive in Budapest. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll along the Danube River. Don’t miss the stunning views of the Parliament building!
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Hungarian dinner at a local restaurant. Try goulash or chimney cake for dessert.

## Day 2: Explore Budapest

• Morning: Visit Buda Castle and explore the historic district. The views from Fisherman’s Bastion are breathtaking!
• Afternoon: Relax at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath. It’s a perfect way to unwind and experience a local tradition.
• Evening: Take a river cruise on the Danube to see the city illuminated at night. It’s magical!

## Day 3: Day Trip to Szentendre

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Szentendre, a charming riverside town known for its art galleries and cobblestone streets.
• Afternoon: Explore the town, visit the Marzipan Museum, and enjoy lunch at a café.
• Evening: Return to Budapest and have a relaxed dinner at a local bistro.

## Day 4: Travel to Bratislava, Slovakia

• Morning: Take a scenic boat ride along the Danube to Bratislava (about 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and then explore the Old Town. Visit the Bratislava Castle for panoramic views.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Slovak restaurant. Don’t forget to try bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese).

## Day 5: Discover Bratislava

• Morning: Visit the Blue Church and the Slovak National Gallery.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk along the Danube promenade or relax in Sad Janka Kráľa park.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening at a local wine bar, sampling Slovak wines.

## Day 6: Travel to Vienna, Austria

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Vienna (about 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and then visit Schönbrunn Palace and its beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Have dinner at a traditional Viennese café. Try the famous Wiener Schnitzel!

## Day 7: Explore Vienna

• Morning: Visit the historic center, including St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace.
• Afternoon: Spend some time at the Belvedere Palace, home to Klimt’s "The Kiss."
• Evening: Attend a classical music concert or opera performance if you’re up for it!

## Day 8: Travel to Prague, Czech Republic

• Morning: Take a train to Prague (about 4 hours). Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and then take a leisurely walk across the Charles Bridge.
• Evening: Have dinner in the Old Town Square and enjoy the ambiance.

## Day 9: Discover Prague

• Morning: Visit Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral. The views from the castle are stunning!
• Afternoon: Explore the charming streets of Mala Strana and visit the Lennon Wall.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Czech meal and try some local beer.

## Day 10: Day Trip to Český Krumlov

• Morning: Take a day trip to Český Krumlov (about 2.5 hours by bus). This fairy-tale town is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Afternoon: Explore the castle and wander through the picturesque streets.
• Evening: Return to Prague and have a relaxed dinner.

## Day 11: Travel to Kraków, Poland

• Morning: Take a train to Kraków (about 7 hours). Enjoy the scenery and relax on the journey.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and then explore the Main Market Square.
• Evening: Have dinner at a local restaurant and try pierogi (Polish dumplings).

## Day 12: Explore Kraków

• Morning: Visit Wawel Castle and the Cathedral. Don’t miss the dragon statue!
• Afternoon: Explore the Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz) and visit the Schindler’s Factory Museum.
• Evening: Enjoy your last dinner in Poland, soaking in the atmosphere of this beautiful city.

Departure

• Depending on your flight schedule, you might have some time for last-minute shopping or a leisurely breakfast before heading to the airport.

This itinerary balances sightseeing with relaxation, allowing you to truly enjoy each destination. Feel free to adjust any activities based on your interests! Happy travels! 🌍✈️