1-Week Eastern Europe Itinerary

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!

Elevated view of Belgrade Fortress with the iconic Victor Monument overlooking the river, capturing the essence of one day in Belgrade. A few people stroll across the open plaza, while the city skyline and lush trees create a picturesque backdrop under a clear blue sky.

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About This 1-Week Eastern Europe Itinerary

This itinerary 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⬇️

A scenic view of a town reminiscent of one day in Bratislava, featuring a prominent green-roofed clock tower at its center. The tower is nestled among buildings with red roofs, while trees and hills form a picturesque backdrop under the clear blue sky.

🛌🏻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.

A woman with curly hair and a long coat strolls by a mural on a building wall in Belgrade. The artwork shows a man in a beret and scarf beneath the sign "Fotokopirnica." Air conditioning units are mounted above, capturing just one day in Belgrade's vibrant street scene.

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.

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.

A lamppost stands in front of a scenic overlook with several benches. Enjoying one day in Belgrade, people sit on the benches, taking in the view of a hazy cityscape in the distance. The scene is tranquil, with bare trees and a clear sky.

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.

Three people wander down a cobblestone street in Belgrade on a sunny day, surrounded by rustic buildings with red-tiled roofs and peeling paint. A display of goods catches their eye on the right, while a bicycle leans casually near a shop entrance on the left.

What To Do In Belgrade

Visit Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park – Belgrade’s Historic fortress and park, which is home to some stunning views of the Danube and Sava rivers and a core part of Belgrade’s History.
Kneza Mihaila – This is Belgrade’s main pedestrian street that’s home to beautiful 19th-century buildings and quaint bookshops.
Skadarlija – This is the bohemian quarter of Belgrade with cobbled streets, traditional Serbian restaurants, and cool cocktail bars. If you’re in Belgrade on a Saturday, make sure to visit the Bajloni Market nearby.
Republic Square – The Square is the central hub of the city and is home to the iconic Prince Mihailo statue, and is surrounded by museums and theatres.
NATO Bombed Buildings – To this day, you can still see visible reminders of the NATO 1999 bombings in Belgrade. The RTS building near St. Mark’s stands as a memorial to the 16 lives lost during the bombings.
Temple of Saint Sava – This is one of the biggest Orthodox churches in the world. The architecture is stunning both inside and out.

One day in Belgrade, a street view unfolds with bare trees and parked cars flanking both sides of the road. Buildings stand tall beneath a partly cloudy sky, while the perspective leads to a solitary figure in the distance, adding depth to this urban scene.

Street art on a building wall depicts a person in blue looking up, capturing the essence of "One day in Belgrade." Surrounding walls and ground feature vivid graffiti. In the foreground, two street lamps and wooden pallets complete the urban tableau.

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.

A colorful salad in a white and blue bowl on a wooden table, capturing the essence of one day in Belgrade, features greens, radishes, olives, roasted red peppers, and grains topped with seeds. A blurred green cup sits in the background as bright sunlight enhances the fresh ingredients.

A round sign with an illustration of flowers above the word "bloom" is mounted on a building in Belgrade. Set against a backdrop of a clear blue sky and bare tree branches, it captures the essence of one day in Belgrade, while green plants flourish in the foreground.

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.

Cozy, dimly-lit corner reminiscent of one day in Belgrade. A round wooden table and tufted seating create a snug atmosphere, while vinyl records and album covers are artfully displayed behind. A large mural and pendant lights enhance the warm ambiance, with an ashtray quietly resting on the table.

Two people are sitting on a vintage carriage seat outdoors, enjoying one day in Belgrade. Both are smiling; one wears a green sweater and the other a white cardigan. Beside them is a small table with colorful drinks, set against an eclectic backdrop of a painted wall.

➡️📖Read my comprehensive guide to one day in Belgrade here.

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:

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:

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:

Wide view of Heroes' Square, a must-see on any 1-week Eastern Europe itinerary. The scene features a tall central column topped with a statue, flanked by colonnades with statues. Groups of people stroll under the clear blue sky, taking in Budapest's historic charm.

What To Do In Budapest

Gellért Hill & Citadel – Climb to the top of this hill to get some breathtaking panoramic views of Budapest.
Buda Castle & Fisherman’s Bastion – Set atop the hills of Buda, this area is home to some beautiful views and rich history. Fisherman’s Bastion has stunning fairytale-like architecture, and it’s also the perfect lookout over the Danube and Parliament.
City Centre – Make sure to take some time to explore the buzzing town centre. Here you can find the well-known ‘BUDAPEST’ sign, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and plenty of shops and restaurants.
St. Stephen’s Basilica – One of Budapest’s most iconic and impressive religious landmarks.
Chain Bridge – Budapest’s most famous bridge, connecting Buda and Pest. A walk across it at night when it’s lit offers some of the best views along the Danube.
Hungarian Parliament Building – The Parliament is a must-see. While walking around, it is impressive, but the most striking views are from across the river on the Buda side (especially at night when the building is lit up).
Shoes on the Danube Bank – A memorial honouring Jewish victims of World War II.
Central Market Hall – Budapest’s largest and most famous indoor market, located in a restored 19th-century building.
Széchenyi Thermal Bath – The most popular and iconic thermal spa in Budapest, located within City Park. While it’s a bit of a walk from the city centre, it’s worth the visit.
Heroes’ Square – A striking monument at the entrance to City Park that commemorates Hungary’s most important historical figures (you can visit this on route to the Széchenyi Thermal Bath).

A woman in a swimsuit smiles while enjoying a large, ornate outdoor pool, part of her 1-week Eastern Europe itinerary. The historic yellow building in the background adds charm as others swim and relax. Steps elegantly lead into the inviting water, completing this scenic stop on her adventure.

Where To Eat and Drink In Budapest

Best Restaurants in Budapest

Langos Papa – A must-try for Hungary’s beloved street food. Crispy fried dough topped with sour cream, cheese, or garlic.
Kiosk Pest – A riverside spot offering 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 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.
Élesztő Craft Beer – A great spot for beer lovers, offering 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.

A dimly lit space adorned with colorful string lights and eclectic decorations like a red mannequin, greenery, and even hints of a 1-week Eastern Europe itinerary in the form of travel memorabilia. The artistic ambiance includes a life ring and bicycle wheel, inviting exploration.

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.

As sunset envelops Bratislava, the cityscape comes alive with a blend of historic and modern buildings crowned by red rooftops. A green-topped tower stands proudly among the dense structures, while the sky gracefully shifts from blue to orange and pink hues for one magical day.

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:

What To Do In Bratislava

Slavín Memorial – A hilltop monument honouring Soviet soldiers from WWII. This spot is super peaceful and has some of the best panoramic views of the city.
Presidential Palace (Grassalkovich Palace) – The official residence of the Slovak President, with grand Baroque architecture and beautifully kept public gardens.
The Blue Church (Church of St. Elizabeth) – A tiny, pastel-blue Art church that looks like it’s been stolen from a fairy tale book.
Stary Most – A modern pedestrian and tram bridge over the Danube. It’s not the most beautiful bridge in the world, but it offers sweeping views of the city and is a top place to view the sunset.
Old Town Square (Hlavné námestie) – The lively heart of Bratislava’s Old Town, buzzing with cafés, artists, and street performers. Make sure to keep an eye out for the quirky Čumil statue peeking out of a manhole.
Primates Palace & Old Town Hall – Located side by side, these historic buildings boast elegant interiors and incredible views from the Old Town Hall tower. Don’t miss the Hall of Mirrors inside the palace or the €4 tower climb for amazing city views.
Michael’s Gate – The last remaining medieval gate in Bratislava, complete with a tower you can climb.
Old Town Streets & Hviezdoslavovo Námestie – Enjoy a relaxed stroll through cobbled side streets and tree-lined squares like Hviezdoslavovo Námestie, which is the perfect spot for people-watching.
Bratislava Castle (Sunset Spot) – Perched on a hill above the Old Town, the castle grounds provide jaw-dropping sunset views over the Danube. Entry to the grounds is free, or you can explore inside for €14.

In Bratislava, a bronze statue depicts a man in a hard hat emerging from a manhole on the cobblestone street. With folded arms resting on the ground, he's surrounded by two large planters and a building entrance—an iconic sight for anyone spending one day in this charming city.

A tall, stone monument with a soldier statue holding a flag at the top stands proudly in Bratislava's sunny open area, surrounded by trees. The clear blue sky enhances the structure's grandeur, making it a must-see on your itinerary for one day in this enchanting city.

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.

A restaurant menu elegantly displayed on a board invites those spending one day in Bratislava to savor its offerings. Featuring vibrant images and descriptions, it highlights pasta, meats, salads, and desserts. Prices accompany each item on the "Bratislavská reštaurácia" menu.

A wooden platter features three sections of food: creamy pasta with mushrooms on the left, pierogi topped with herbs and mushrooms in the center, and sauerkraut mixed with bacon and herbs on the right. Imagine savoring this feast during one day in Bratislava, set on a red and white checkered tablecloth.

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.

A bonsai tree with a moss-covered base appears to levitate inside a circular frame, its soft glow reminiscent of the magic felt after one day in Bratislava. Below, a small glass container holds a light-colored liquid. The dark background enhances the serene display.

➡️📖Read my comprehensive guide to one day in Bratislava here.

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.

Discover this moody cityscape on a foggy day, featuring a Gothic-style cathedral tower rising above colorful tiled rooftops. As mist rolls over this picturesque landscape, it sets the perfect tone for your 1-week Eastern Europe itinerary, adding an atmospheric touch to your journey.

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:

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:

What To Do In Vienna

Hofburg Palace – A huge, historic complex right in the centre of Vienna. It used to be home to the Habsburg royals and now houses museums, the Spanish Riding School, and the Austrian President’s office. Worth a wander, even just for the architecture.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral – The most well-known church in Vienna, best known for its beautiful Gothic towers. You can pay €4.50 to climb the South Tower for a great panoramic view over the city.
Austrian Parliament – A beautiful neoclassical building that’s easy to spot while walking through the city. You can join a guided tour if you’re interested in the history or architecture.
St. Peter’s Church – Just a few minutes from St. Stephen’s, this smaller Baroque church is quieter but stunning inside. If you’re into architecture, it’s definitely worth a stop.
Austrian National Library – Even if libraries aren’t your thing, the State Hall is beautiful. It’s full of old books, grand statues, and detailed ceiling frescoes. The entrance fee is around €7.
Danube River – If you’ve got extra time, take a walk along the river or hop on a short cruise.

Explore this stunning church on your 1-Week Eastern Europe Itinerary. Its ornate interior boasts a richly decorated altar with gold accents and intricate religious artwork. Elaborate ceiling designs, coupled with dim lighting, enhance its majestic atmosphere.

Where To Eat and Drink In Vienna

Best Restaurants In Vienna

Café Mozart – Classic Viennese café right by the Opera. Great spot for people-watching over coffee and apple strudel. A real old-school charm.
Café-Restaurant Gutenberg – Cosy and casual with hearty Austrian dishes. Good for lunch or dinner, and popular with locals.
Hotel Sacher – Famous for the original Sacher-Torte. It’s a bit of a splurge, but the dessert history makes it worth it.
Glacis Beisl – A Hidden restaurant located near MuseumsQuartier. Shady garden, modern Austrian food, and a peaceful vibe.
Figlmüller – The go-to place for schnitzel. 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 a favourite.

Two slices of chocolate cake with whipped cream grace plates on a marble table, accompanied by a teapot and a tall glass of beer—an inviting scene that could easily be part of a cozy café stop during your 1-week Eastern Europe itinerary. In the background, photos capture the cake preparation artistry.

Best Bars In Vienna

Miranda Bar – Stylish and PINK bar with top-notch cocktails. Known for creative mixes and good music.
Sofitel Vienna Rooftop Bar – Amazing views over the city, especially at sunset. A bit upscale, but perfect for a drink with a view.
Krypt.bar – Hidden underground bar with speakeasy vibes. Dim lighting, great cocktails, and a cool, mysterious atmosphere.
If Dogs Run Free – Artsy and a little quirky, with colourful interiors and experimental drinks. Great for something different.
Kleinod – Elegant but not too fancy. Known for classy cocktails and a relaxed crowd. Good spot for date night or a chill evening.

A dimly lit restaurant with large glass windows showcases a panoramic city skyline at night, reminiscent of a stop on your 1-week Eastern Europe itinerary. The ceiling displays a vivid autumn leaf pattern as diners enjoy the view of illuminated buildings and a distant spire.

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.

Set against a clear blue sky, the light blue church with white decorative elements and a clock tower captivates with its intricate details. One day in Bratislava, this sight, complete with a spire adorned by a decorative cross, offers an unforgettable experience.

One day in Bratislava, an outdoor art display unfolds with framed paintings and photographs leaning against a building wall. A green circular window presides over the eclectic collection of animals, abstract designs, and portraits. A folding chair stands ready for contemplation.

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. 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

A large historical building with green domes graces the clear blue sky, reminiscent of a scene from one day in Belgrade. A statue of a person on horseback commands attention in front, while people wander and gather in the bustling plaza below.

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.

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!