1-Week Eastern Europe Itinerary: ULTIMATE City Break Guide by Bus
Looking for the perfect 1-week Eastern Europe itinerary? Then you have come to the right place.
In the last few years, Eastern Europe has grown in popularity, and for very good reasons. It’s a region of Europe that is home to a rich history, cool cafe culture, charming architecture, and immaculate vibes.
This city break itinerary takes you through four incredible capitals: Belgrade, Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna, each with its own unique feel, culture, and charm.
In just seven days, you’ll visit the gritty and creative streets of Belgrade and the spa-soaked streets of Budapest. You’ll then wander through the quirky old town streets of Bratislava and finish off by admiring Vienna’s grand architecture whilst indulging in some of its best cafes.
In recent years, I have visited over 30 European cities, and these are some of my favourites by far. So you can trust me when I say this itinerary is a very good one (even if I do say so myself).
Yes, it’s a jam-packed trip, but one that’s full of variety. Think riverside cocktails, historic fortresses, street food, art and a whole lot of atmosphere.
Whether you’re into history, food, bar crawls or love hopping from city to city, this itinerary gives you a little bit of everything that Eastern Europe has to offer.
So, what’s included in a 7-day Eastern Europe itinerary? Read on below to find out!
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About This 1-Week Eastern Europe Itinerary
This itinerary has been created from my many, many trips to Eastern Europe. It is perfect for those who want to see multiple European cities in one trip, especially if you are short on time and/or have limited annual leave (PTO).
However, if you prefer exploring countries on a deep level over multiple days, then this might not be the right itinerary for you. But for a week full of culture, food, and city vibes? I believe this itinerary totally delivers.
The best part about this itinerary? You don’t need a car. This entire route can be done easily by affordable buses, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride without worrying about navigating or parking in busy cities. Travel times are manageable, and connections between cities are frequent and reliable.
Your 1-Week Eastern Europe City Break Itinerary will look like this:
- Day 1 – Belgrade, Serbia
- Day 2 – Belgrade > Budapest (Long Travel Day)**
- Days 3 & 4 – Budapest, Hungary
- Day 5 – Bratislava, Slovakia
- Days 6 & 7 – Vienna, Austria
**Day 2 is a specified travel day because the bus journey from Belgrade to Budapest is 6 hours long and therefore will take up a good portion of your day. However, the other journeys on this itinerary are much shorter (under 3 hours) and therefore will not impact the time you have to explore the next city.
⬇️Prepare For Eastern Europe⬇️
🛌🏻BOOK YOUR HOTELS🛌🏻
For this trip I recommend using Booking.com and Hostelworld to book your accommodation.
🚋BOOK YOUR TRANSPORT🚋
Book transport to and around Eastern Europe from my favourite websites: Flixbus, Omio & Skyscanner.
🎡EXPLORE THE BEST ACTIVITIES🎡
Uncover the best activities in Eastern Europe with GetYourGuide and Viator.
📅WHEN TO VISIT 📅
For great weather and fewer crowds make sure to visit in the shoulder seasons of April-June and September-October. Alternatively, visit in December to enjoy some of the best Christmas markets in Europe.
Important Things To Know About Travelling Eastern Europe By Bus
Before we get into the nitty gritty of this itinerary, there are a few important things to know about travelling Eastern Europe, which I have listed below.
Booking Your Bus
For this trip, I highly recommend booking your bus tickets in advance. Buses tend to fill up fast (especially during the busy summer months). Securing a seat ahead of time is the best way to avoid any disappointment.
When it comes to pre-booking your bus, there are 2 websites I recommend checking bus times and prices, these are Flixbus and Omio.
Printing Your Tickets
Some bus routes on this itinerary may require that you show a printed ticket, while others will accept e-tickets. If you need to print a ticket, this will be specified on your booking. Ideally, I would recommend printing everything out before your trip, but if that’s not possible, I’m sure your hotel or hostel will be more than willing to help.
Bus Station Tax
A lot of the bus stations in Eastern Europe will have something they call “bus station tax”. It’s usually under €1, but it can be annoying if you’re caught without any cash.
This is your reminder to always make sure you have some spare change on you. Most places will accept Euros even if that is not the local currency.
luggage FEES
On some routes, you might be asked to pay a small fee for storing your luggage under the bus. This is typically around €2 (or the equivalent in local currency) and should be mentioned when you book your ticket.
Currency in Eastern Europe
Some of the countries listed in this itinerary use their own currency rather than the Euro, so you must be adequately prepared with the right currency for your trip.
These are the different currencies you will need for each country included on this trip:
- Serbia – Serbian Dinar
- Hungary – Hungarian Forint
- Slovakia – Euro
- Austria – Euro
I discovered that many places still accept the Euro alongside the local currency, so I really recommend keeping a small number of Euros on hand, especially when travelling between countries and crossing borders.
1-Week Eastern Europe Itinerary
Day 1 – Belgrade
Belgrade isn’t normally one of the top choices when it comes to visiting European cities, but I think it’s somewhat of a hidden gem, which is why I have included it on this Eastern Europe itinerary. It’s gritty, creative, historic and very cool.
In Belgrade, you’ll find lively cafe culture, buzzing riverside bars, leafy parks and some very friendly locals. For this itinerary, you will need just one day in Belgrade.
Arriving In Belgrade, Serbia
Flight
Belgrade is a well-connected city, and you can easily fly here from most key cities across Europe. For the best flight prices, I recommend using Skyscanner. You’ll find that most budget airlines like Ryanair or Wizz Air fly into Belgrade, and you can usually get a good deal (providing you’re not flying during peak seasons and school holidays).
To get from the airport to the city centre, you order a taxi using the ridesharing app Yandex Taxi (there is no Uber in Belgrade, so this is the main option. The journey from Nikola Tesla airport to the city centre should cost around €25.
If you’re looking to save some money, the A1 bus will be the best option for you. It departs right outside the arrivals area and will take you into the city centre for under €3.
Bus
Belgrade is also well connected by both national and international bus routes. It’s super straightforward to get here from other countries in the Balkans, such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, and Montenegro. I recommend checking out both FlixBus and Omio to book the best bus option for you.
Train
International train travel to Belgrade is possible, but routes aren’t as regular or as fast as flights or buses. However, if you are interested in getting a train, then I would search for the best train route options using the Omio website.
Where To Stay In Belgrade
The best areas to stay in around Belgrade are the Old Town (Stari Grad) and the Belgrade Waterfront. Most of the best things to see and do in the Belgrade centre are around the old town, and the Belgrade Waterfront is outside of the hustle and bustle and has some really lovely views.
Here are some of the best hotels and hostels to stay in Belgrade’s old town and Belgrade Waterfront:
- Nomad Hostel – This is a chic and budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of the city and perfect for solo travellers looking for a good atmosphere.
- City Nest Modern & Cosy Suites – These suites are super central and come complete with all the comforts of your own apartment.
- Belgrad Inn Garni Hotel – A comfortable and clean hotel located just seconds from Belgrade’s main attractions.
- Hotel Skadarlija NB – Located in Belgrade’s Bohemian district, so you’ll be close to all the cool spots in the city.
- Belgrade Waterfront – Beograd na vodi – A sleek hotel in the city’s newest riverside neighbourhood, perfect for those who love staying somewhere a little fancy.
- Belgrade Waterfront Apartments – These spacious, stylish apartments are ideal for longer stays or anyone wanting a bit of peace and quiet near the river.
What To Do In Belgrade
Visit The Belgrade Fortress & Kalemegdan Park
This historic fortress is the one place you really need to visit in the city, and it’s definitely my favourite spot in Belgrade. The views of the river and the city are stunning, and the park surrounding the fortress is great for a little nature escape in the city. There are also some very cool underground tunnels located nearby, so if you’re keen to explore underneath the city, make sure to check out this Belgrade underground tour.
Wander Down Kneza Mihaila
This is Belgrade’s main pedestrian street, and it’s as charming as it is lively. Lined with 19th-century buildings, independent bookshops, and outdoor cafés, it’s the perfect spot for a lazy wander or a coffee break.
Discover Skadarlija
Skadarlija is Belgrade’s bohemian area, known for its quirky cobbled streets and cool cocktail bars and restaurants. If you happen to be around on a Saturday, make sure to swing by the Bajloni Farmers Market.
Explore Republic Square
Republic Square is the cultural heart of Belgrade. It’s where you’ll find the iconic Prince Mihalio statue surrounded by beautiful buildings like the National Museum and the National Theatre.
Witness The NATO Bombed Buildings
The bombed-out remains of the 1999 NATO airstrikes are still visible in a few places around Belgrade. The most poignant is the RTS building near St. Mark’s Church, which now stands as a memorial to the 16 people who died there. If you’re interested in understanding the city’s more recent history, this modern history tour is an eye-opening one and will add some context to what you’re seeing.
Visit the Temple of Saint Sava
Be sure to leave enough time in your schedule to visit the Temple of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. If you’re into religious or architectural landmarks, this city e-bike tour includes the temple along with other must-see churches and sites.
Where To Eat and Drink In Belgrade
Best Restaurants In Belgrade
- Bloom – A stylish little brunch spot serving avocado, salmon, eggs, and other brunch faves. Make sure to go early, as it can get very busy.
- June – Another great brunch spot and a good backup if Bloom is packed (as it is just next door). Same brunch vibes with a little more space, and open slightly later.
- Znak Pitanja (Question Mark) – One of the oldest restaurants in Belgrade. Serves up hearty Serbian classics in a historic setting. The name “Question Mark” involves a long story over a naming dispute.
- The View Rooftop – This restaurant has an awesome view overlooking St. Sava Temple. Be sure to try the signature tuna steak dish.
- Restaurant Rubin – A family-owned restaurant near Košutnjak woods. This place is best known for hearty Serbian dishes with a twist, like veal in cherry sauce.
🍔If you’re keen to try authentic Serbian food (and maybe a rakija or two), this food and drink tour through Belgrade Old Town is a great way to experience some traditional cuisine.
Best Bars in Belgrade
- Blaznavac – A quirky bar (think elephant statues hanging from the ceiling) that serves all of your favourite cocktails.
- Druid – A cool underground speakeasy bar. It’s small, full of character and serves up some great cocktails.
- The Riddle – A hidden gem with a puzzle-themed interior and a rotating cocktail menu. Expect inventive drinks and a moody atmosphere.
- Gunners Pub – A cosy pub-style bar with a strong selection of local craft beers and whiskey. Think comfy leather couches, dark wood, and rock music vibes
- D3 Carrots – An artsy, slightly eccentric Irish bar where you can enjoy live music and a pint of Guinness.
Day 2 – Belgrade To Budapest
Unfortunately, the journey from Belgrade to Budapest does take a bit of time, which is why I have dedicated the majority of day 2 to this journey.
You can book a direct bus from Belgrade to Budapest on Flixbus for as little as €20. The Journey takes 6 hours, and there are only 2-3 buses a day.
For this itinerary, I would say it’s totally up to you as to what bus you would like to book. You either have the option to spend another morning in Belgrade or spend a late afternoon in Budapest. On this itinerary, you will be spending 2 days in Budapest.
Budapest is one of those cities that will leave you wanting to come back again and again (and it’s definitely one of my favourite cities in Europe). The city is a nice mixture of historic charm and cosmopolitan energy that makes it super fun to explore. On one side of the Danube River, you’ve got Buda with its beautiful castles and stunning views, and on the other, you have Pest, which is full of bars and cool cafes.
Days 3 & 4 – Budapest
Where To Stay In Budapest
Budapest is a bigger city in comparison to the others that you’ll be visiting on this itinerary, so I recommend staying in just 3 areas of the city: Belváros, Terézváros or Erzsébetváros.
Belváros (District V – Inner City)
Belváros is the heart of downtown Budapest, where you can find iconic landmarks like St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Parliament.
The best places to stay in Belváros include:
- Maverick Downtown – Set in a beautiful historic building, this hostel is a great choice if you want to be close to everything.
- H2 Hotel Budapest – This is a modern hotel that is located just steps away from Budapest’s beautiful Chain Bridge.
- Charm Hotel Budapest – A boutique stay near the Danube, great for travellers who want to be close to shops and cafés.
Terézváros (District VI)
Terézváros is best known for its theatres, museums, and upscale vibe, but also has lots of cool little cafés.
The best places to stay in Terézváros include:
- Avenue Hostel – This is a great budget-friendly choice for travellers looking for a social place in a very central location.
- DORMERO Hotel Budapest – A peaceful hotel close enough to the top sites but also far enough away to enjoy some peace.
- SWU Magazine Rooms – A very trendy hotel with a rooftop pool that is a great option for those who love a well-designed boutique hotel.
Erzsébetváros (District VII)
Erzsébetváros is the Jewish Quarter of the city. Here you will find lots of history and some of the city’s best street art and nightlife.
The best places to stay in Erzsébetváros include:
- Wombats City Hostel – This is a top pick for solo travellers who want to be in the centre of the nightlife.
- Continental Hostel Budapest – A fancy 4-star Art Deco hotel for those looking for a bit of luxury (without the ridiculous price tag).
- KViHotel Budapest – the smart hotel – is A fully digital hotel where you check in with your phone. This is ideal for those checking in at unsociable hours.
What To Do In Budapest
Admire The View From Gellért Hill
Gellért Hill offers some seriously impressive views of Budapest, the Danube River and the famous bridges that stretch across it all. The Citadel makes for an epic backdrop and I highly recommend visiting during golden hour because the light up there is just magical.
Explore the Fairytale Charm of Buda Castle & Fisherman’s Bastion
If there is one spot you simply cannot miss in Budapest, it has to be Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion (It’s probably one of my favourite views in all of Europe). The Bastion looks like it was plucked from a fairytale, and the view across the Danube to the Parliament Building is genuinely unforgettable.
The whole Castle District is lovely to explore on foot, and if you want to dive into the history, this guided castle district tour is a fab way to do it.
Climb to the Dome of St. Stephen’s Basilica
While the outside of St. Stephen’s Basilica is beautiful, make sure that you don’t skip the inside because it’s just as impressive. For €2, you can climb to the dome, and the view from the top is one of the best in the city. Book a skip-the-line ticket if you want to avoid the queues, especially during peak season.
Stroll the Chain Bridge at Night
The Chain Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. There is something so magical about it, especially at night. The bridge connects Buda and Pest, so you’ll definitely be walking over it regardless.
Take in the Parliament from Across the River
The Hungarian Parliament Building is breathtaking up close, and whilst you can go inside and explore, I personally think it’s even more stunning when viewed from across the river (especially at night).
Visit the Shoes on the Danube Bank
Just a short walk away, you’ll find the Shoes on the Danube Bank. This is a haunting and beautiful tribute to Jewish victims of WWII. It’s simple but absolutely worth stopping by.
Snack at Central Market Hall
If you love markets or just want a taste of local life, head to Central Market Hall. It’s housed in a stunning 19th-century building and packed with local delicacies, crafts, and delicious produce.
Relax at Széchenyi Thermal Bath
No trip to Budapest is complete without a soak in a thermal bath, and Széchenyi is the most iconic of them all. Here you can find steamy outdoor pools and saunas. It’s the perfect way to unwind (or recover from a night out at the ruin bars). You can book your ticket in advance here, which is super handy as it does get very busy.
Walk Through Heroes’ Square
Heroes Square is lined with statues of Hungary’s most famous historical figures and is an easy stop if you’re already heading to the thermal baths.
End the Day with a Danube Boat Cruise
For a dreamy end to your day, hop on an evening Danube boat cruise (complete with unlimited prosecco). Watching Budapest’s most beautiful buildings (Parliament, the Castle and the Chain Bridge) from the water was hands-down one of my favourite experiences in the city. If unlimited prosecco isn’t necessary for you, this boat cruise is a better option.
Where To Eat and Drink In Budapest
Best Restaurants in Budapest
- Langos Papa – A must-try for Hungarian street food. Langos consist of crispy fried dough topped with sour cream, cheese, or garlic.
- Kiosk Pest – A riverside spot serving up modern Hungarian cuisine with a cool interior and great views of Elisabeth Bridge. Ideal for brunch, dinner, or cocktails.
- Freyja—The Croissant Story – A pastry lover’s dream. Here you can find handcrafted croissants with very inventive flavours.
- New York Cafe – Often called “the most beautiful café in the world,”. This spot is a bit touristy, but you can enjoy coffee and cakes under golden ceilings and grand chandeliers.
- Ildikó Konyhája – A cosy, no-frills local gem serving up hearty Hungarian home cooking.
- Leo Rooftip – A stylish rooftop bar and restaurant with stunning views over Buda Castle and the Danube.
- Twentysix Budapest – A lush, plant-filled restaurant that serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Best Bars in Budapest
- Szimpla Kert – The original and most famous ruin bar, and no trip to Budapest is complete without a visit. This is a popular spot that is 100% worth the hype.
- Élesztő Craft Beer – A great spot for beer lovers that offers a rotating selection of Hungarian and international craft beers
- Csendes Létterem – A quirky bar that doubles as a ruin pub, filled with antique furniture and random knick-knacks, with a creative drinks menu.
- Hotsy Totsy Cocktail Bar – A small, speakeasy-style bar with expertly crafted cocktails and a vintage aesthetic.
- Boutiq’Bar – One of the city’s best bars for innovative and creative cocktails.
Day 5 – Bratislava
Bratislava might be one of Europe’s smallest capital cities, but don’t let its size fool you. This is one of the most colourful and vibrant cities I have been to in Europe.
From its storybook old town and riverside cafes to its hilltop castles and hidden art corners, Bratislava has a laid-back charm that’s easy to fall in love with.
As much as I love all the other cities in this itinerary, I definitely have a soft spot for Bratislava. For this itinerary, you will need just one day in Bratislava.
How To Get From Budapest To Bratislava
You can book a direct bus from Budapest to Bratislava on Flixbus for as little as €10. The Journey takes just 2 hours and 45 minutes, and there are more than 10 buses a day. For this itinerary, I recommend booking one of the morning bus options that are available.
Where To Stay In Bratislava
As most of the best things to see and do in Bratislava centre around the old town, I recommend staying as close to the old town as possible. Here are some of the best hotels and hostels to stay in Bratislava’s old town:
- Patio Hostel – An affordable and centrally located hostel with a relaxed atmosphere.
- CHORS Like A Hotel – This is a mix between a hotel and a hostel with capsule beds and a very cool design. Great if you’re solo travelling but want some privacy.
- Loft Hotel Bratislava – A popular 4-star hotel with industrial-chic vibes, large rooms, and even its own brewery!
- Palace Apartments Bratislava – These serviced apartments are great for longer stays or those with bigger groups.
What To Do In Bratislava
Visit The Slavín Memorial
If you’re after panoramic views of the city, then the Slavín Memorial is a great way to begin your day in Bratislava (and I’m surprised not more people know about it). This Soviet WWII monument offers one of the best viewpoints in the city. It’s rarely crowded, so it’s perfect for a slow start to the morning. You can also include it in this city highlights bus tour if you’d prefer not to tackle the 30-minute uphill hike.
Admire The Blue Church
Honestly, it’s hard not to fall head over heels for the Blue Church (Church of St. Elizabeth). It’s tiny, pastel, and looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. Early mornings are the best time to visit when the streets are quiet. It’s super small, so you won’t need too long here.
Explore The Old Town Square
Make your way into Hlavné námestie (Old Town Square). It’s always buzzing with life (live music, painters, and street performers). Make sure to pay a visit to the iconic Čumil statue nearby (he’s a bit of a local celebrity).
Climb Up The Old Town Hall
Right off the square, you’ll find the Old Town Hall. For just €4, you can also climb the Old Town Hall tower for some incredible rooftop views of the city.
Admire Michael’s Gate
Michael’s Gate is the last remaining Medieval gate in the city. There’s a small museum inside and another tower climb if you’re collecting viewpoints. It’s also one of the most photographed spots in the Old Town.
Catch the Sunset from Bratislava Castle
Be sure to end your day at the stunning Bratislava Castle that overlooks the city. The castle grounds are free to roam and give you sweeping views over the Danube, which I can confirm are magical at sunset.
Where To Eat and Drink In Bratislava
Best Restaurants In Bratislava
- Urban – The best brunch spot in Bratislava, known for its funky decor and speciality coffees.
- Bratislava Flagship Restaurant – One of the largest restaurants in Europe, where you can find traditional Slovak cuisine like Pierogi (dumplings filled with meat and cheese).
- SoupCulture – A unique place near Michael’s Gate, specialising in delicious soups served in edible bread cups, which is both a very cool and eco-friendly experience.
- Gatto Matto Panská – An Italian restaurant located in the heart of Bratislava’s Old Town, serving up authentic cuisine in a beautiful little courtyard.
- Slovak Pub – Another popular spot for traditional Slovak dishes.
- Fach – A modern and aesthetic bistro, bakery and juice shop that serves up seasonal dishes with high-quality and seasonal ingredients.
Best Bars In Bratislava
- Steinplatz – A cosy and quirky basement bar that is open until 3/4 am every single day. A great spot to try unique, fruity beers.
- Half Blind Pig – A cool underground speakeasy bar. It’s small, full of character and serves up some great cocktails.
- Mirror Bar – Located inside the Radisson Blu Carlton Hotel, Mirror Bar serves up classy cocktails in some very creative ways. It’s pricey but worth it in my opinion.
- Piana Vyshnia – This is a cool little bar that specialises in Ukrainian cherry liqueur, and that’s pretty much all they serve. On the weekend, you can find a DJ playing here and a very buzzing atmosphere.
- Pivovar Shenk – A local brewery and pub rolled into one, serving up house-made beers and hearty Slovak food. Ideal if you want a more authentic, slightly off-the-tourist-track beer experience.
- Spin Cocktail Bar – A great spot to visit if you’re after creative and quirky drinks and super friendly bar staff.
Days 6 & 7 – Vienna
Whilst Vienna technically isn’t considered part of Eastern Europe (it comes under Central Europe), it neighbours many Eastern European countries, which is why I have included it on this itinerary.
Vienna might have a reputation for classical charm and elegance, but it’s so much more than that. Not only can you enjoy exploring opulent palaces and art galleries, but you’ll also find stylish and cool cafes and quirky parts of the city (and I think it’s the perfect place to end an epic Eastern Europe Itinerary).
For this itinerary, you’ll need 2 days in Vienna.
How To Get From Bratislava To Vienna
The Journey from Bratislava to Vienna is the easiest one yet.
You can book a direct bus from Bratislava to Vienna on Flixbus for just €7. The Journey takes a little over an hour, and there are more than 20 buses a day. For this itinerary, I would say to book one of the earlier buses so that you can enjoy 2 full days in Vienna.
Where To Stay In Vienna
There are two main areas to stay in during your time in Vienna. The first is the Innere Stadt (1st district) and the second is Wieden (4th District).
Innere Stadt (1st District)
This is the historical centre of Vienna, where, if you stay here, you’ll be in close proximity to all of the best tourist sites in the city.
The best places to stay in Innere Stadt include:
- Aparthotel Adagio Vienna City – Apartment-style rooms located right in the centre that are perfect for those who want their own space.
- Hotel Am Parkring – This hotel sits high above the city skyline, with some seriously good views. A great quiet spot that is still close to the action.
Wieden (4th Disctrict)
This is the bohemian quarter of the city (but still close enough to the city centre) where you can find lots of cool bars and cafes, and it is perfect for those looking to enjoy Vienna’s nightlife.
The best places to stay in Wieden include:
- Wombats City Hostel Vienna -A fun and friendly hostel close to the city centre and nightlife, perfect for travellers looking to meet people.
- Austria Trend Hotel beim Theresianum Wien – This hotel is modern and comfortable, and just a short walk from the main station and some of the city’s best sites.
What To Do In Vienna
Discover Hofburg Palace
Right in the heart of Vienna, you can find Hofburg Palace (which is impossible to miss). This palace used to be home to the Habsburg Dynasty, but today it houses everything from museums to the Austrian President’s office. Even if you skip the ticketed areas, wandering the grounds is just as fun. If you’re curious to go inside, I recommend this skip-the-line guided tour.
Climb to the Top at St. Stephen’s Cathedral
Just a short stroll from the Hofburg, you will find the beautiful St. Stephen’s Cathedral. For just €4.50, you can climb the South Tower to get an awesome panoramic view over the rooftops of Vienna. This was probably my favourite activity in Vienna, so be sure not to miss this one.
Wander Through The Schönbrunn Palace
Schönbrunn Palace is hands-down one of my favourite spots in Vienna, and the palace looks like something out of a period drama. The interior is beautiful, but honestly, the garden has to be the best bit.
Here you’ll find fountains, flower beds, manicured lawns, and even a zoo hidden away inside the grounds. Wandering the gardens is completely free, but if you do want to go inside, I recommend this palace tour.
Admire The Austrian National Library
Even if you’re not usually one for libraries, the State Hall inside the Austrian National Library is a must-see when you’re in Vienna. It’s a beautiful space filled with ancient books, marble statues, and a stunning painted ceiling. There is a €7 entrance fee to enter the library, but it is worth it.
Where To Eat and Drink In Vienna
Best Restaurants In Vienna
- Café Mozart – This is a classic Viennese café right by the Opera. Great spot for people-watching over coffee and apple strudel.
- Café-Restaurant Gutenberg – Cosy and casual with hearty Austrian dishes. This place is good for lunch or dinner, and popular with locals.
- Hotel Sacher – This spot is super famous for the original Sacher-Torte. It’s a bit of a splurge, but the dessert history makes it worth it (plus it’s super tasty too).
- Glacis Beisl – A Hidden restaurant located near MuseumsQuartier. Shady garden, modern Austrian food, and a peaceful vibe.
- Figlmüller – The go-to place for schnitzel. Here you’ll get massive portions (and usually a queue), but it’s a Vienna must-do.
- Miznon – Laid-back and lively spot for creative Middle Eastern street food. The roasted cauliflower is definitely worth trying.
Best Bars In Vienna
- Miranda Bar – One of the most stylish bars in the city (complete with PINK interiors), with top-notch, creative cocktails.
- Sofitel Vienna Rooftop Bar – Amazing views over the city, especially at sunset. It’s slightly more upscale, but if you’re after a drink with a view, this is the place.
- Krypt.bar – Krypt is a hidden underground bar with speakeasy vibes. Dim lighting, great cocktails, and a very cool and mysterious atmosphere.
- If Dogs Run Free – Artsy and a little quirky, with colourful interiors and experimental drinks. This is great if you’re after something different.
- Kleinod – This bar is elegant but not too fancy. It’s best known for classy cocktails and a relaxed crowd. Good spot for date night or a chill evening.
Leaving Vienna
Leaving Vienna is extremely straightforward and easy with lots of flight, bus and train options to choose from.
If you are choosing to fly out, you can either fly out of Vienna International Airport or Bratislava International Airport, depending on what is cheaper for you, as these are just an hour away from each other on the bus.
If flying out from Bratislava is cheaper for you, you might want to consider rearranging this itinerary slightly and choose to do Budapest > Vienna > Bratislava instead. You can catch a direct Flixbus from Budapest to Vienna for just €18, and the journey is a little over 3 hours.
FAQ’s on Eastern Europe
When is the best time to visit Eastern Europe?
The beauty of this itinerary is that you can do it any time of year. In spring, you can enjoy blossoming parks, milder temperatures and fewer crowds. In summer, you’ll find warm weather, long days and plenty of outdoor events and festivals.
In autumn, you can enjoy the colourful foliage that comes with this time of year and a more relaxed, local feel as things wind down after peak season. And in winter, you’ll find magical Christmas markets and cosy vibes.
What Other Countries Fall Under The Eastern Europe Region?
There are approximately 28 countries that fall under the “Eastern Europe” bracket, some of which include:
- Poland
- The Czech Republic
- Romania
- Bulgaria
- Slovenia
- Croatia
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Montenegro
- North Macedonia
If you wanted to extend this itinerary, you could consider heading to Prague in the Czech Republic after Vienna, or heading to Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina before visiting Belgrade.
How Much Should I Budget For This 1-Week Eastern Europe Itinerary?
For this specific trip, I would suggest budgeting between €50-€100 per day, depending on your travel style. Belgrade and Bratislava seem to be cheaper than Budapest and Vienna, so it is important to take that into account.
You can expect to pay the following prices during your trip:
- Accommodation
- Hostel Dorm €8-€16
- Guesthouse/Apartment €25-€40
- Hotel €60-€100
- Food
- Main Meals €6-€20
- Snacks/Bakeries €1-€5
- Drink
- Coffee €2-€4
- Beer €3
- Wine €5-€10
- Cocktails €7-€20
- Transport
- Buses €5-€20
Is it possible to travel to Eastern Europe by train?
Travelling this part of Eastern Europe by train is possible, however, I found the train routes and times to be far less frequent and take a lot longer. I believe that taking the bus is the most economical and efficient way to get around this part of Europe.
If you would like to look into taking the train, I recommend looking at the Omio website for the best routes and timetables.
Can I Rent A Car In Eastern Europe For This Route?
You can absolutely rent a car in Eastern Europe, however, you will need to double-check that your car rental company will allow you to travel to all the countries listed on this itinerary.
Another important thing to remember is that this is a city break itinerary, so you will need to double-check that the hotel you book provides parking.
Again, I believe that taking the bus is the best option for this 7-day Eastern Europe itinerary.
Is Eastern Europe Safe For Solo Female Travellers?
I felt very safe as a solo female traveller in these specific countries mentioned in this itinerary. I cannot recall feeling any moments of discomfort during my time in Belgrade, Budapest, Bratislava or Vienna. Which (unfortunately) is quite unusual in my experience. But as always, safety is a subjective issue, so I cannot guarantee the same experience.
When travelling in Eastern Europe as a woman, I recommend exercising the usual precautions that we take both at home and when in a foreign country, including not walking alone in the dark and ensuring you have battery and data on your phone. I recommend Airalo or Holafly if you need data during this trip.
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Final Thoughts On This 1-Week Eastern Europe Itinerary
I think this 1-week Eastern Europe itinerary is perfect if you’re after an immersive experience in some of Europe’s top capital cities. Whether you’re here for the history, the culture, the food and cocktails, or just looking to visit a new part, there will be something to suit your needs.
If you have any questions about anything I have mentioned in this itinerary, please do not hesitate to reach out!
