Ultimate 12-13 Day Itinerary for Austria, Croatia, Hungary, and Romania

Planning a trip to Austria, Croatia, Hungary, and Romania is like stepping into a collection of fairy tales blending history and nature. This comprehensive itinerary will guide you through some of the best places in these countries, ensuring you experience a mix of scenic countryside and historical sites.

Austria: Rich History and Natural Beauty in 3 Days

Austria is a treasure trove of historical landmarks and picturesque landscapes. Here's how to make the most of your 3-day stay:

Viena (Day 1)

Historical Sites

Schnbrunn Palace St. Stephen's Cathedral Hofburg Palace

Scenic Spots

Vienna Woods (Wienerwald) Gardens of Schonbrunn

Salzburg (Day 2)

Historical Sites

Hohensalzburg Fortress Mozart's Birthplace

Scenic Spots

Mirabell Gardens Consider a day trip to the Lake District (Salzkammergut) for stunning lakes and mountains

Croatia: UNESCO Wonders in 3 Days

Get ready to explore Croatia's natural treasures and historical heritage in just three days:

Plitvice Lakes National Park (Day 3)

Scenic Spots

Hiking in a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its cascading lakes and waterfalls

Split (Day 4)

Historical Sites

Diocletian's Palace

Scenic Spots

Enjoy coastal views and relax at nearby beaches

Dubrovnik (Optional, Day 5)

Explore the Old Town and walk the city walls

Hungary: Budapest's History and Charm in 3 Days

Hop eastward to Hungary for a blend of history and relaxation:

Budapest (Day 7)

Historical Sites

Buda Castle Fishermans Bastion Hungarian Parliament Building

Scenic Spots

Taking a cruise on the Danube River for stunning views Relax in one of the famous thermal baths

Romania: Explore Transylvania and Bucharest in 3 Days

Discover the mystique of Transylvania and the bustling capital city of Romania:

Transylvania (Day 10)

Historical Sites

Bran Castle (often associated with Dracula) Medieval town of Sibiu

Scenic Spots

Explore the Carpathian Mountains particularly around Piatra Craiului National Park

Bucharest (Optional, Day 11)

See the Palace of the Parliament Explore the Old Town

Travel Tips

To make the most of your trip, follow these tips and tricks:

Transportation

Use trains for intercity travel as they are often convenient and scenic. Renting a car can be beneficial for exploring rural areas.

Timing

Allocate more time to areas you're particularly interested in, for example, if you love nature, spend more time in Plitvice Lakes or the Carpathians.

Local Cuisine:

Do not miss local dishes in each country. Each region has its own specialties which can enhance your travel experience.

Cultural Experiences:

Look for local festivals or events happening during your visit as they can provide a deeper understanding of the culture.

This itinerary offers a balanced mix of historical exploration and natural beauty, ensuring you experience the best of what these countries have to offer. Enjoy your trip!