G-Adventures logo

Budapest to Berlin: Graffiti Walls & Market Halls

7 days, Budapest to Berlin

The streets of Budapest waking up
Map of the route for Budapest to Berlin: Graffiti Walls & Market Halls
Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Itinerary Notes

COMBO TRIP: Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travellers may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.

ACCOMMODATION: Please note most of our 18-to-Thirtysomethings accommodation in Europe is multi-share. For more info, see the "About Accommodation" section under "Tour Details".

Itinerary

Day 1Budapest

Arrive at any time.

Spend your first night with your CEO and group at one of Budapest's famous nightlife spots. Where old meets new, and you meet your fellow travellers and your journey's beginning.

We highly recommend booking pre-accommodation to fully explore this breathtaking city.

Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends

Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.

8

Optional Activities - Day 1 HideShow

Buda Castle Visit
Budapest3h-4h
1500HUF per person

Set on Castle Hill overlooking the Danube River and Pest, Buda Castle was once home to the Hungarian kings of Budapest. Admire the gorgeous architecture and visit its two museums; the National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. Permanent collections depict the past 500 yrs of Hungary's art history, including Medieval and Renaissance stonework, Gothic wood sculptures, and Gothic altars.

Budapest Bike Tour
Budapest3h-4h
28EUR per person

Join a group for a guided city tour by bike. Buzz around the city on two wheels to cover more ground and get your blood pumping.

Chain Bridge
Budapest
Free

Straddeling the river Danube, the Chain Bridge suspension bridge is the first built to connect Buda and Pest, and is now one of Budapest's most iconic landmarks.

Thermal Baths Visit
Budapest1h-3h
4200-5000HUF per person

Bring two towels, your bathing suit and an aching body and prepare to be healed in the largest medicinal bath in Europe. Built in 1913, you can test the waters of 18 different pools (15 of which are spring fed) amidst stunning neo-Baroque architecture. Play chess on floating chessboards, relax in the whirlpools and explore the wonderful mosaic domes of these historic thermal steam rooms.

Hungarian National Museum
Budapest1h-2h
1600HUF per person

Discover a vast collection of relics at the Hungarian National Museum, the oldest in the country. Wander through galleries that feature incredible objects from prehistoric to modern times, including those from the Stone Age, Ottoman period and contemporary Hungary.

Hungarian State Opera House
Budapest30m-1h
2900HUF per person

Constructed in 1873, the Opera House is one of Budapest's most stunning examples of Neo-Renaissance architecture. Take a tour around this stunning building to get a closer look at the ornate marble statues, frescos, and ornate tin work - to name a few highlights.

Great Market Hall Visit
Budapest
Free

Take a stroll though the oldest indoor market in Hungary.

Parliament Building Visit
Budapest
5200HUF per person

Take a guided tour of one of Hungary's crown jewels - the Hungarian Parliament building. Existing as the third largest Parliament building in the world, its Neo Gothic architecture also makes it a contender for one of the most beautiful. Tour the Hungarian Coronation Jewels in the Dome Hall, the Old Upper House Hall of the bicameral Hungarian Parliament, as well as the Lounge. Guided tours are mandatory for entrance and we recommend booking your tour in advance.

Accommodation

Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.

Wombat Hostel Budapest (or similar)
Hostel

Day 2Budapest/Krakow

Enjoy free time to explore Hungary's capital. Opt to check out the beautiful Parliament building, stroll the streets or visit the thermal baths. Visit a G Adventures-supported café that assists Hungarians living with a disability before boarding the overnight train to Krakow.

With the Danube River dividing old town, Buda, from the newer area, Pest, there is plenty to see and do.

Your G for Good Moment: Nem Adom Fel Café and Bar

Stop at Nem Adom Fel Café and Bar, whose proceeds help fund a non-profit by the same name, which means "Never Give Up." Most of the employees at this social enterprise café are living with a disability, and the charity advocates for rights for the disabled all over Hungary. Your meal helps this café to invest in the charity's efforts, which also include supporting rural Roma communities through much-needed social programs.

Overnight Train (seats)
Budapest – Krakow

Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.

Your Discover Moment
Budapest Full Day

There's plenty to see and do in Budapest, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like a visit to the Parliament, a walk around the Fisherman's Bastion, and marvel St. Stephen's Basilica. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

8

Optional Activities - Day 2 HideShow

Budapest Bike Tour
Budapest3h-4h
28EUR per person

Join a group for a guided city tour by bike. Buzz around the city on two wheels to cover more ground and get your blood pumping.

Buda Castle Visit
Budapest3h-4h
1500HUF per person

Set on Castle Hill overlooking the Danube River and Pest, Buda Castle was once home to the Hungarian kings of Budapest. Admire the gorgeous architecture and visit its two museums; the National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. Permanent collections depict the past 500 yrs of Hungary's art history, including Medieval and Renaissance stonework, Gothic wood sculptures, and Gothic altars.

Chain Bridge
Budapest
Free

Straddeling the river Danube, the Chain Bridge suspension bridge is the first built to connect Buda and Pest, and is now one of Budapest's most iconic landmarks.

Thermal Baths Visit
Budapest1h-3h
4200-5000HUF per person

Bring two towels, your bathing suit and an aching body and prepare to be healed in the largest medicinal bath in Europe. Built in 1913, you can test the waters of 18 different pools (15 of which are spring fed) amidst stunning neo-Baroque architecture. Play chess on floating chessboards, relax in the whirlpools and explore the wonderful mosaic domes of these historic thermal steam rooms.

Hungarian National Museum
Budapest1h-2h
1600HUF per person

Discover a vast collection of relics at the Hungarian National Museum, the oldest in the country. Wander through galleries that feature incredible objects from prehistoric to modern times, including those from the Stone Age, Ottoman period and contemporary Hungary.

Hungarian State Opera House
Budapest30m-1h
2900HUF per person

Constructed in 1873, the Opera House is one of Budapest's most stunning examples of Neo-Renaissance architecture. Take a tour around this stunning building to get a closer look at the ornate marble statues, frescos, and ornate tin work - to name a few highlights.

Parliament Building Visit
Budapest
5200HUF per person

Take a guided tour of one of Hungary's crown jewels - the Hungarian Parliament building. Existing as the third largest Parliament building in the world, its Neo Gothic architecture also makes it a contender for one of the most beautiful. Tour the Hungarian Coronation Jewels in the Dome Hall, the Old Upper House Hall of the bicameral Hungarian Parliament, as well as the Lounge. Guided tours are mandatory for entrance and we recommend booking your tour in advance.

Budapest Morning Walking Tour
Budapest

Wander through Budapest on an early morning walk that ends at Great Market Hall, the city's largest (and oldest) indoor public market. Visit Gellert Hill to learn about the history of Buda and Pest, divided by the Danube River. On a clear day, capture amazing panoramic shots of the river as it snakes through this ancient city. Continue onto Liberty Square, then take a quick peek at the Gellért Thermal Baths to learn about its place in Hungarian culture. Upon arriving at Great Market Hall, sample local specialties that have been enjoyed in this busy market for over 120 years. Remember to bring your camera (and some cash) for market shopping.

Accommodation

Overnight Train from Budapest to Krakow (or similar)
Train

Day 3Krakow

Use free time today to visit Auschwitz, travel to see old salt mines, or stay in the city to explore the Jewish Quarter. In the afternoon, enjoy an orientation walk.

Opt to visit Rynek Główny - Europe’s largest medieval market square; savour a traditional Polish breakfast (kielbasa, yum), or sit back with a coffee and a slice of Poland's famous cheesecake (sernik babci) at one of the many cafes in the area. Then, walk it off with a stroll uphill to marvel at the impressive Wawel Royal Castle.

Orientation With CEO
30m-1h

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Free Time
Krakow Afternoon

With so much to see and do, you'd better get out there.

6

Optional Activities - Day 3 HideShow

Rynek Underground Museum
Krakow 1km
19PLN per person

Travel beneath the market square for a tour of the underground route of forgotten medieval market stalls.

Old Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz)
Krakow

For some of the history that makes Krakow so famous, visit the Jewish district of Kazimierz, just south of Old Town. Once the centre of Jewish life for more than 500 years, it was destroyed during the Second World War, only to be revitalized in the 1990s following the popularity of Steven Spielberg's film, Schindler’s List. During your Jewish culture crawl, see synagogues, Gothic churches, and art galleries, then stop for a drink in one of the more than 800 pubs that populate the nooks and alleys of this historic district.

Wawel Royal Castle
Krakow
3PLN per person

Take a stroll up Wawel hill (or catch a ride on a horse and carriage) to 16th century Wawel Castle. Roam the gardens, or the museum featuring exhibitions that give you some insight into life as a royal, such as Royal Private Apartments, and Crown Treasury and Armoury.

Bar Mleczny (Milk Bar) Meal
Krakow

Originally set up as an affordable canteen for Polish workers, bar mlecznys ("Milk Bars") are now known as a must visit for authentic, Polish comfort food. Try the pierogi (traditional dumplings), placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes), or (and?) kielbasa (sausages).

Wieliczka Salt Mines Visit
Wieliczka3h-4h

If you can tear yourself away from the charms of Krakow, make a visit the Wieliczka Salt Mines, located only a short distance away.
Built in the 13th century, these mines produced table salt until 2007, making it one of the world's oldest salt mines. Head deep into an underground network of tunnels and chambers some 135m (443 ft) below the surface. Visit the Blessed King's Chapel, a salt cathedral carved by miners, complete with elaborate chandeliers and sculptures.

Auschwitz Tour
Krakow5h-7h
155PLN per person

Visit the former Nazi concentration camps at Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau on this 7-hour trip from Krakow. During the Second World War, around 1 million Jewish lives and 100,000 Poles, Roma, Soviet prisoners of war and others were lost at Auschwitz. On the way to Auschwitz, which takes around 45 minutes, we show a short documentary about the liberation of Auschwitz - Birkenau to give you some insight about the history of the camp. Upon the arrival, our tour leader will provide you with all the essential rules and procedures which must be followed at the museum. After a short break, the group will skip the line to begin the guided tour. The museum is divided into two parts: Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II - Birkenau, with sightseeing included for both camps.

Accommodation

Ginger Hostel Krakow (or similar)
Hostel

Day 4Krakow/Prague

Take a day train to Prague, then enjoy an orientation walk around town, including a visit to a genuine beer hall. Later, enjoy your Big Night Out with the group. Na Zdravi!

Imagine a city lined with Bohemian art, beer halls offering the finest brews in the region, tranquil gardens, and ornate chapels - it's no wonder why visitors fall in love with this place. Take the afternoon and get lost.

Train
Krakow – Prague8h

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Orientation With CEO
30m-1h

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Bohemian Beer Hall Visit
Prague

Visit a genuine bohemian beer hall and try a famous Pilsner beer in its home region.

Your Big Night Out Moment:

Celebrate late into the night with your new travel tribe.

10

Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow

Prague Ghetto (Josefov/Jewish Quarter) Visit
Prague1h-2h
10-20EUR per person

The Prague Ghetto, known as Josefov, is located between the Old Town Square and the Vltava River. This Jewish Quarter was first established in the 13th century, when Jewish people were ordered to leave their homes in other areas of the city and settle in this designated community. Birthplace to author Franz Kafka, see a monument in his honour, visit historical synagogues, a cemetery and museum with many artifacts collected during the Second World War.

Charles Bridge Visit
Prague15m-30m
Free

Visit the Charles Bridge, commissioned by King Charles IV in 1357. Cross the ancient cobblestone walkway which spans 16 arches, lined with 30 religious statues. Buy souvenirs and listen to street musicians. It's less crowded first thing in the morning and at night.

Kafka Museum
Prague1h-2h
200CZK per person

Immerse yourself in the world of Franz Kafka, widely regarded as one of the 20th century's greatest literary authors. At the Franz Kafka Museum, explore the Prague of Kafka's youth, weave your way through the places and events which influence his writing style (often referred to as "Kafkaesque") and uncover how his formative experiences led to works such as "The Metamorphosis".

Letná Beer Garden Visit
Prague1h-2h
Free-3EUR per person

Watch the sunset from the heights of the Letná Beer Garden in Letná Park, along the banks of the Vltava River. Sample a pint of Gambrinus 10° Czech beer, world-famous for its superb quality and low cost. Grab a grilled sausage and soak in the scenery.

Mucha Museum
Prague
240CZK per person

Spend some time with a master of Art Nouveau - a style famous for its flowing lines and natural forms - at the Mucha Museum. With seven themed galleries that explore the life and times of Czech artist Alphonse Mucha, view dozens of the decorative panels, posters, illustrations, paintings and photographs that made him one of the art world's most prolific and revered figures.

Museum of Communism
Prague
150CZK per person

Visit the Museum of Communism for an in-depth look into Prague's recent history. Covering the period after Nazi occupation and leading up to the Velvet Revolution - a tumultuous 40 years for many Czech people - there's much to explore over two floors. Wander through galleries filled with photos, videos, artifacts and other exhibits that provide a glimpse into everyday life during the communist era.

Old Town Hall and Clock Tower
Prague
110-440CZK per person

The Astronomical Clock Tower, built next to Prague's Old Town Hall, is a 600-year-old masterpiece and the oldest working clock in the world. Every hour, hundreds of visitors gather to hear it chime and watch the twelve apostles "greet" curious onlookers. At the visitor's centre, opt to book an independent tour of the clock tower to see its inner workings.

Old Town Visit
Prague15m-30m

Wander the cobblestoned streets and soak in the Eastern European charm.

Petřín Hill Hike
Prague2h-3h 3-12km
Free-30CZK per person

Prague certainly has no shortage of breathtaking views and Petřín Hill, near the Prague Castle, offers a less obstructed panoramic vista of the "city of spires."

Prague Castle (Hradčany) Visit
Prague2h-3h
250-350CZK per person

If you like a challenge, climb 200+ steps up to the famous Prague Castle (known as Hradčany), the Castle of the Bohemian Kings. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the largest castle complex in the world, and includes Roman-style buildings from the 10th century. Still got energy? Climb the lookout tower of St. Vitus Cathedral and be rewarded with a glorious view of the city.

Accommodation

Czech Inn Hostel (or similar)
Hostel

Day 5Prague

Free day for exploration—check out the Prague castle complex or walk the cobblestone streets through the old town and Jewish ghetto.

Enjoy all Prague has to offer. Opt to visit the famous Charles Bridge, the clock tower in the main square or a traditional Czech beer hall with serious helpings of meat and potatoes.

Free Time
Prague Full Day

Leave no stone unturned. Explore historic castles, town centres, or stretch those legs on a hike.

7

Optional Activities - Day 5 HideShow

Prague Ghetto (Josefov/Jewish Quarter) Visit
Prague1h-2h
10-20EUR per person

The Prague Ghetto, known as Josefov, is located between the Old Town Square and the Vltava River. This Jewish Quarter was first established in the 13th century, when Jewish people were ordered to leave their homes in other areas of the city and settle in this designated community. Birthplace to author Franz Kafka, see a monument in his honour, visit historical synagogues, a cemetery and museum with many artifacts collected during the Second World War.

Charles Bridge Visit
Prague15m-30m
Free

Visit the Charles Bridge, commissioned by King Charles IV in 1357. Cross the ancient cobblestone walkway which spans 16 arches, lined with 30 religious statues. Buy souvenirs and listen to street musicians. It's less crowded first thing in the morning and at night.

Letná Beer Garden Visit
Prague1h-2h
Free-3EUR per person

Watch the sunset from the heights of the Letná Beer Garden in Letná Park, along the banks of the Vltava River. Sample a pint of Gambrinus 10° Czech beer, world-famous for its superb quality and low cost. Grab a grilled sausage and soak in the scenery.

Malá Strana Visit
Prague

Cross the Charles Bridge and find yourself in picture-perfect Lesser Town (Malá Strana). Browse small shops, explore cobblestone side streets, visit churches and then find a Czech pub or restaurant to relax and revel in the ambience of this ancient district.

Old Town Visit
Prague15m-30m

Wander the cobblestoned streets and soak in the Eastern European charm.

Petřín Hill Hike
Prague2h-3h 3-12km
Free-30CZK per person

Prague certainly has no shortage of breathtaking views and Petřín Hill, near the Prague Castle, offers a less obstructed panoramic vista of the "city of spires."

Prague Castle (Hradčany) Visit
Prague2h-3h
250-350CZK per person

If you like a challenge, climb 200+ steps up to the famous Prague Castle (known as Hradčany), the Castle of the Bohemian Kings. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the largest castle complex in the world, and includes Roman-style buildings from the 10th century. Still got energy? Climb the lookout tower of St. Vitus Cathedral and be rewarded with a glorious view of the city.

Accommodation

Czech Inn Hostel (or similar)
Hostel

Day 6Prague/Berlin

Take a train to Germany and enjoy an orientation walk in Berlin. Opt to check out the city's vibrant nightlife.

Berlin is an amazing city with tangible historical importance and a melting pot of different cultures and flavours.

Train
Prague – Berlin5h

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Orientation With CEO
30m-1h

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Free Time
Berlin Afternoon

Get out and start exploring.

6

Optional Activities - Day 6 HideShow

East Side Gallery Visit Along Berlin Wall
Berlin1h-2h
Free

The very name Berlin conjures images of the famous Berlin Wall. Two sections of the original structure still remain on display; the East Side Gallery, where artists have decorated the remaining section of the wall, and the Berlin Wall Memorial (Gedenkstatte Berliner Mauer). View these remnants of history that once divided east from west.

Reichstag Visit
Berlin

For those interested in Berlin's government, past and present, visit the Reichstag, home to the German parliament. Climb the stairs to the glass dome for a 360-degree view of the city, or learn about the fascinating history of the building, restored following damage suffered during the bombing raids of the Battle of Berlin in 1945.

Television Tower (Fernsehturm) Visit
Berlin2h-3h
13-23EUR per person

For an amazing view of Berlin, visit the famous Berlin Television Tower. Bring your camera and take panoramic photos from the viewing room, then grab a drink and snack at the cafe located 203m (666 ft) above ground.

The Berlin Wall Memorial
Berlin
Free

Learn about the history of the “Iron Curtain,” the physical, political and emotional barrier that once separated Berlin under the Communist Eastern Bloc and their neighbours to the west. At Berlin Wall Memorial (Gedenkstatte Berliner Mauer), see a complete section of the wall, and look from the east side to see the remains of an electric fence in the so-called “death strip.” Discover the stories of those who died trying to escape to the freedom of West Berlin.

Brandenburg Gate Visit
Berlin
Free

The Brandenburg Gate is a spot of great historical significance. Witness the spot where hundreds of thousands of people were finally able to cross from the east side to the west after the fall of the wall. Walk the cobblestones of the surrounding Pariser Platz and mingle with locals who continue to gather here to see stage shows and celebrate public events.

Checkpoint Charlie Museum Visit
Berlin
17.50EUR per person

Down the street from the Berlin Wall is the Haus am Checkpoint Charlie, a museum that documents the history of the wall, and interestingly, many of the different ways people tried to escape. From hot air balloons to one-man submarines, learn about the tenacity and creativity used by those desperate to cross from the east to western side.

Accommodation

Generator Hostel Berlin Mitte (or similar)
Hostel

Day 7Berlin

Depart at any time.

9

Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow

East Side Gallery Visit Along Berlin Wall
Berlin1h-2h
Free

The very name Berlin conjures images of the famous Berlin Wall. Two sections of the original structure still remain on display; the East Side Gallery, where artists have decorated the remaining section of the wall, and the Berlin Wall Memorial (Gedenkstatte Berliner Mauer). View these remnants of history that once divided east from west.

Reichstag Visit
Berlin

For those interested in Berlin's government, past and present, visit the Reichstag, home to the German parliament. Climb the stairs to the glass dome for a 360-degree view of the city, or learn about the fascinating history of the building, restored following damage suffered during the bombing raids of the Battle of Berlin in 1945.

Judisches Museum Visit
Berlin2h-4h
8EUR per person

The Judisches Museum is one of the largest Jewish museums in Europe. See how architect Daniel Libeskind's design evokes three important elements of the past two centuries; the intellectual, economic and cultural contributions of Jewish citizens in Berlin, the reality of the Holocaust, and the recognition of their absence from Berlin (and beyond) following the Second World War. See evocative collections and displays.

Brandenburg Gate Visit
Berlin
Free

The Brandenburg Gate is a spot of great historical significance. Witness the spot where hundreds of thousands of people were finally able to cross from the east side to the west after the fall of the wall. Walk the cobblestones of the surrounding Pariser Platz and mingle with locals who continue to gather here to see stage shows and celebrate public events.

German Historical Museum
Berlin1h-2h
8EUR per person

With exhibits that trace the country's history from the Middle Ages to present day, the German Historical Museum provides visitors a sweeping, fascinating perspective unmatched by other museums in the city.

The Berlin Wall Memorial
Berlin
Free

Learn about the history of the “Iron Curtain,” the physical, political and emotional barrier that once separated Berlin under the Communist Eastern Bloc and their neighbours to the west. At Berlin Wall Memorial (Gedenkstatte Berliner Mauer), see a complete section of the wall, and look from the east side to see the remains of an electric fence in the so-called “death strip.” Discover the stories of those who died trying to escape to the freedom of West Berlin.

Pergamon Museum
Berlin1h-3h
12EUR per person

Located in Berlin's Museum Island, the Pergamon museum holds an impressive collection of art and objects from Greek and Roman antiquity, the ancient Near East (covering Mesopotamia, Syria and Anatolia) and the Museum of Islamic Art.

PLEASE NOTE: The museum will close on October 23, 2023 for 4 years.

Schloss Charlottenburg Palace
Berlin2h-3h
10EUR per person

Named after Sophie Charlotte, the first Queen consort of Prussia, the Schloss Charlottenburg is one of the few grand structures of Berlin which largely escaped damage during World War II. Visit the palace's rococo ballroom, the Silver Vault, the exotic Orangery and its impressive gardens, designed by the same royal gardeners who worked on the palace of Versailles.

Checkpoint Charlie Museum Visit
Berlin
17.50EUR per person

Down the street from the Berlin Wall is the Haus am Checkpoint Charlie, a museum that documents the history of the wall, and interestingly, many of the different ways people tried to escape. From hot air balloons to one-man submarines, learn about the tenacity and creativity used by those desperate to cross from the east to western side.

Budapest to Berlin: Graffiti Walls & Market Halls

| 7 days - Budapest to Berlin - from $1070 USD