Balkan Trails From Budapest To Greece

Day 01

BUDAPEST

Gellért, Rudas,and Széchenyi Baths.

Matild Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel

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Arrive in Budapest and enjoy a warm welcome with a private transfer to your hotel. Dive into the city’s legendary spa culture on a half-day thermal bath tour, exploring iconic sites like Gellért, Rudas,and Széchenyi Baths. Gellért Baths is known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, luxurious interior, and variety of pools located on the Buda side of the Danube. Rudas Baths is a historic Turkish bath complex, featuring a 16th-century octagonal Turkish pool and a modern rooftop hot tub offering panoramic city views. Széchenyi Baths is a neo-Baroque landmark features 18 pools, including outdoor thermal baths surrounded by ornate architecture. Discover the fascinating history behind Budapest’s 100+ hot springs, then relax in mineral-rich waters that have soothed visitors for centuries. Don’t forget your bathing gear—this is your chance to experience one of Europe’s most enchanting wellness traditions.

Day 02

BUDAPEST CASTLE DISTRICT & REDJET AT DANUBE

Budapest Castle District – Royal Palace – Presidential Palace – Holy Trinity Square – Hess András Square – Matthias Church – Fishermen’s Bastion – Central Market – Danube River

Matild Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel or similar

Breakfast

Start your day with breakfast before embarking on a private guided tour of Budapest’s historic Castle District. Explore the grandeur of Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the Royal Palace and Presidential Palace. Stroll through Holy Trinity Square and Hess András Square, rich in medieval charm, and visit the stunning Matthias Church and the fairytale-like Fishermen’s Bastion. In the afternoon, enjoy an exhilarating 30-minute Redjet ride on the Danube River. This high-speed boat adventure offers thrilling spins and sharp turns while showcasing Budapest’s iconic landmarks like the Parliament, Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle. End the day with a return to your hotel or a drop-off at a local restaurant for dinner.

Day 03

BUDAPEST PREST SIDE- DINNER CRUISE

Pest Side – Danube Bank – St. Stephen's Basilica – State Opera – Hungarian Parliament – Liberty Square - Market hall

Matild Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Breakfast , Dinner

Start your day with breakfast before exploring the vibrant Pest side of Budapest on a private 3-hour tour. Discover grand boulevards, St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Hungarian Parliament, Liberty Square, the State Opera, and the lively Central Market Hall. Pest offers stunning architecture, thermal baths, and a buzzing café scene. In the evening, enjoy a 2.5-hour candlelit Danube dinner cruise aboard a modern glass-roofed boat. Savor a 4-course meal with live music as you glide past illuminated landmarks like Buda Castle and the Chain Bridge—Budapest at its most enchanting.

Day 04

BUDAPEST – BRATISLAVA – CESKY KRUMLOV

Bratislava Castle ,Český Krumlov, Devin castle, UFO Tower and Old town

Garni hotel Castle Bridge or Similar

Breakfast

After hotel check-out, begin your private transfer to Český Krumlov with a scenic stop in Bratislava. Enjoy a 2.5-hour guided walking tour through Slovakia’s compact capital. Start at Bratislava Castle, perched on a hilltop with sweeping views of the Danube and Austria beyond. Explore its courtyards and learn about its role in Hungarian coronations. Continue to Devin Castle, a dramatic ruin at the confluence of the Danube and Morava rivers, symbolizing Slovak resilience. Visit the UFO Tower, a flying-saucer-shaped structure atop the SNP Bridge—take the elevator to the observation deck for panoramic city views. In the Old Town, stroll past Michael’s Gate, the last preserved medieval gate, and admire St. Martin’s Cathedral, where kings were crowned. Discover quirky statues like Cumil the sewer worker and browse local shops and cafés. After lunch, continue your comfortable drive to Český Krumlov, a UNESCO-listed town of winding alleys and castle views. Overnight in Český Krumlov.

Day 05

KRUMLOV - PRAGUE

Český Krumlov, Main Square, Krumlov Mill, Moldavite Museum, Latrán Houses, Český Krumlov Castle, Castle Tower

Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel or similar

Breakfast

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast before continuing with the fairytale charm of Český Krumlov. Your private tour starts at the Main Square, a vibrant medieval hub surrounded by colorful Renaissance and Baroque buildings. Visit the historic Krumlov Mill by the Vltava River, then explore the Moldavite Museum, home to rare 15-million-year-old green tektites. Wander the cobbled Latrán Street, lined with storybook artisan houses. After lunch, ascend to the majestic Český Krumlov Castle, a UNESCO treasure blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Don’t miss the Castle Tower’s panoramic views of the town and countryside. End your magical day with a private transfer to Prague for an overnight stay.

Day 06

PRAGUE

Old Town, Astronomical Clock, New Town, Prague Castle, Strahov Monastery and The Loreto

Art Deco Imperial or similar

Breakfast

Start your day with breakfast before diving into an enchanting 8-hour private tour of Prague, the “City of a Hundred Spires.” Begin in the UNESCO-listed Old Town, where Gothic towers, the Astronomical Clock, and cobbled lanes evoke centuries of history. Continue to New Town, founded in 1348, where medieval charm meets modern cafés and vibrant culture. Admire the Vltava River and its iconic bridges before exploring Prague Castle—the world’s largest ancient castle complex. Visit the stunning Strahov Monastery, famed for its ornate library, and the Loreto, a Baroque pilgrimage site with a dazzling treasury. After a day of discovery, unwind with an overnight stay in magical Prague.

Day 07

PRAGUE - ATHENS

The Acropolis hill, The Parthenon temple and the Erechtheion

Crown Plaza Athens City Centre by IHG

Breakfast

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Athens. Upon arrival, enjoy a private transfer to your hotel in the city center. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Acropolis, the ancient citadel overlooking Athens. Visit the Parthenon, a 5th-century BC temple dedicated to Athena, built entirely of Pentelic marble. Admire its Doric columns and subtle architectural refinements—like curved lines and column spacing—that create the illusion of perfect symmetry. Inside, it once housed the colossal statue of Athena Parthenos by Phidias. Continue to the Erechtheion, an Ionic temple known for its asymmetrical design and the Porch of the Caryatids, where six sculpted maidens replace traditional columns. This temple honored both Athena and Poseidon and was built on sacred ground believed to be the site of their mythical contest. Return to your hotel and relax for your first overnight stay in the historic heart of Athens.

Day 08

ATHENS - KALAMBAKA

Dionysus Theatre, Herodion Odeon, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Arch of Hadrian, Academy of Science, Athens University, National Library, Ancient Agora,Temple of Hephaestus, Stoa of Attalos

Divani Meteora or similar

Breakfast

After breakfast, embark on a captivating half-day tour of Athens, where ancient glory meets modern vibrance. Begin with the legendary Theatre of Dionysus, birthplace of drama. Admire the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, still alive with performances today. Visit the towering Temple of Olympian Zeus and pass through the Arch of Hadrian, gateway to Roman Athens. Witness the ceremonial Changing of the Guards at Syntagma Square, then explore the all-marble Panathenaic Stadium, site of the first modern Olympics. Stroll past the neoclassical Academy of Science, Athens University, and National Library, then wander the Ancient Agora and charming Plaka. Transfer to Kalambaka for overnight stay.

Day 09

KALAMBAKA – METEORA

Holy Saint Stephen Monastery, Holy Trinity Monastery, Barlaam Monastery, Nicoloas Rousanou Monastery, Anapsafar Monastery, National History Museum of Meteora

Divani Meteora or similar

Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast. Take a short 10 minute drive to Meteora. A private guided tour by car of Meteora in Thessaly, which is a breathtaking UNESCO site with towering sandstone pillars and six active monasteries, including Holy Trinity, Saint Stephen, Barlaam, Nicolaos Rousanou, and Anapsafar—each offering stunning views and spiritual serenity. Hike scenic trails once used by monks and witness sunrise from panoramic viewpoints. In Kalabaka, visit the National History Museum of Meteora to explore the region’s geology, monastic heritage, and cultural evolution from prehistoric times to today. For a charming detour, head to Trikala, birthplace of Asclepius, the ancient god of medicine. Enjoy riverside cafes, a Byzantine fortress, and the whimsical Little Train of Trikala. Overnight in Meteora.

Day 10

KALAMBAKA – ATHENS – SANTORINI

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Charisma suites or The Art Maisons Oia castle hill or similar

Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast before checking out and transferring to Athens Airport by private car (approx 3.5 hrs) for your flight to Santorini. Upon arrival, meet your assistant and transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 11

SANTORINI

Messaria, Perissa, Monolithos, Prophet Elias (Monastery)

Charisma suites or The Art Maisons Oia castle hill or similar

Breakfast

Santorini, a jewel of the Aegean, enchants with its whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, and sunsets that paint the sky in gold. After breakfast, embark on a 6-hour island tour: stroll through iconic Oia, with its postcard-perfect views; explore Messaria, rich in Cycladic charm and local wines; unwind on Perissa’s black-sand beach; enjoy serenity in Monolithos, ideal for families; and ascend Prophet Elias, Santorini’s highest point, for sweeping vistas and monastic history. Each stop reveals a different facet of the island’s soul. End the day with an overnight stay, watching the beautiful sunset, wrapped in the magic and romance that only Santorini can offer.

Day 12

SANTORINI – SEMI-PRIVATE CATAMARAN CRUISE

Catamarans Cruise - Red beach and White beach

Charisma suites or The Art Maisons Oia castle hill or similar

Breakfast

Enjoy a delicious breakfast. Later set sail on the luxurious Platinum Hot Spring Catamaran Cruise, an intimate experience with a maximum of 14 guests. After your transfer, embark on a scenic journey to Santorini’s volcanic hot springs, the striking Red Beach, and the serene White Beach. Enjoy paddling, snorkeling, and sea kayaking with all gear provided. From mid-afternoon into the evening, savor fresh fruit and snacks as you glide across the Aegean, soaking in the island’s dramatic coastline and golden sunset.

Day 13

SANTORINI – ATHENS

Plaka

King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel,

Breakfast

Morning breakfast at leisure. Noon time transfer to airport for flight to Athens. Meet on arrival, assist and transfer to hotel. Explore Plaka on your own. Plaka, Athens’ oldest and most charming neighborhood, lies beneath the Acropolis and captivates with its maze of cobbled streets, neoclassical architecture, and vibrant energy. Stroll past Byzantine churches, browse local crafts and souvenirs, and relax in lively cafes and tavernas.

Day 14

ATHENS

Ancient Corinth Cruise, Acropolis Museum

King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Breakfast

After breakfast, enjoy a 5-hour guided excursion to Ancient Corinth, once a powerful city-state, where you’ll explore the Temple of Apollo, the Agora, and the Bema, where Apostle Paul preached. Continue to Acrocorinth, a hilltop fortress with sweeping views and layered history from Greek to Ottoman times. Then return to Athens for a guided 2-hour visit to the Acropolis Museum, a modern marvel showcasing Parthenon sculptures, ancient relics, and glass floors revealing live excavations. The top gallery offers stunning views of the Acropolis, blending ancient grandeur with contemporary design. Overnight at hotel.

Day 15

ATHENS

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Testing Eastern Europe X Greece

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After breakfast, enjoy a smooth private transfer to Athens airport for onward flight home, taking with you the unforgettable memories, breathtaking views, and timeless charm of Greece.

Balkan Trails From Budapest To Greece