JayWay helped us to create a great itinerary and is very helpful and responsive throughout the planning process and during the trip.
- Susan & Judith - California
Hungary & Slovakia's Story
- Price
- from $4,475
- Duration
- 11 days
- Destinations
- Budapest, Eger, Kosice, High Tatras, Bratislava, Vienna
Get a price estimate for this trip
Are Hungary and Slovakia countries you haven't visited yet? Hopefully, this itinerary will inspire you. Familiarize yourself with the capital cities, Budapest and Bratislava, then visit small but remarkable towns like Szentendre, the artists' village, the wine town of Eger, and the artsy eastern Slovak city Kosice. Once in Slovakia, you can't miss a detour to the High Tatras for dramatic mountain vistas and a hike, along with a stay in a classic grand hotel. The Slovakian countryside's gems, Spis Castle and Banska Stiavnica, won't be missing from the list. You will sip full-bodied red wines in Eger and light whites in Bratislava, as companions to delicious traditional meals. Along the way you'll learn all about the intertwined histories of these two small neighbors. Find your next available travel date, and we take care of the rest.
Transportation by private transfer between the destinations, the mentioned stops, city walking tours, and stylish accommodations are all part of this two-country vacation package. Come, fall in love with these countries, and return.
In addition to the tours included we can arrange a number of excursions based on your own interests. All of our tours are custom, and this is just a sample meant to give an idea of what our trips are like, and the opportunities our destinations provide.
One of our team members in the region will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange additional local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these destinations have to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon your arrival, we will provide you with a local SIM that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3-5 star accommodation options, including boutique hotels, charming B&Bs, and spacious apartments. With our first-hand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambience.
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Budapest
The Paris of Central Europe, Budapest is the Queen of the Danube, a sprawling, regal city split in two halves by the mighty river. The city’s two UNESCO-listed halves, ancient Buda and modern Pest both have their charms and are linked by numerous picturesque bridges. From the Buda Castle to the Danube Embankment and the sprawling Andrassy Avenue, with its impressive architecture, there is plenty to keep you busy here, exploring and discovering this atmospheric city. It’s a little too big to explore only on foot, but the Pest side of the city is well laid out with broad avenues of the Parisian system, so it’s hard to get lost, and the public transportation, including the world's second oldest subway system, works well. Budapest has all the charm of Western Europe at a fraction of the price. Here you can taste excellent wines produced throughout the region, and even enjoy Michelin-star dining in various locations. We can offer you more than enough exciting activities in the city, from a visit to the incredible Parliament building to a boat cruise with dinner, or an exploration of Budapest’s communist past. The city also has a rich Jewish heritage, so you’ll find the perfect balance of history and modern culture here. Voted Best City in Europe in 2013 by Condé Nast Traveler readers and a regular in their top 3, Budapest really is a special city with activities to cater to every interest.When you arrive at Budapest’s Ferenc Liszt Airport, a private driver will greet you and take you to your centrally located accommodation.
Evening Sightseeing Group Cruise
You're invited for a panoramic boat ride at night, when the city will be beautifully lit up for your pleasure. Glass in hand, you will be able to experience how the legends of Budapest come alive. Look behind the walls of the Royal Palace, the Parliament, the bridges, and other splendid sights all bathed in light.
Included in your vacation package price
Day 2 Your First Full Day in Budapest
Pest Private Walking Tour
When arriving at a new capital for the first time, it's best to have a knowledgeable local show you around. On this tour, an expert local guide will take you around the Pest side of Budapest, home to most of the city's landmarks and history, showing you not just the big-name sights, but introducing you into the everyday lives of the city's citizens.Included in your vacation package price
Walk on the Buda Side
If you've seen enough of the Pest side of the city, walk across the river and explore the Buda side of Hungary's capital. In hilly Buda, you'll find several amazing baths, such as the famous Gellert Baths or the more hidden and local Kiraly Baths. Visit the Matthias Church, where Franz Joseph I and Elisabeth were coronated and stop at the Royal Palace, the home of Hungarian National Gallery. Don't forget to take a ride on the Buda Castle Funicular!Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package
Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Budapest
Had Enough of Budapest? See the Countryside!
If you would like to surround yourself with art (and a surprising number of churches), head to the town of Szentendre. Sitting on the banks of the Danube, Szentendre is known for its artist's colony, which is reflected in its many galleries, museums, shops, and eclectic decor. We recommend visiting the Margit Kovacs Ceramic Museum, or one of the town’s marzipan museums. For an extra fee, we can add an hour in the Skanzen open-air ethnographic museum. After driving half an hour from Budapest, you’ll have four hours to spend taking in the narrow streets, steep steeples, and poking your head into the many shops, courtyards, and galleries.Included in your vacation package price
Bathe with the Locals
Is there anything more quintessentially Budapest than a visit to one of the legendary baths? With more hot springs than any other capital, the city lets you take your pick of various styles, from the old school Turkish Rudas Baths to the Art Nouveau Gellert Baths on the Buda side of the city, or even the Neo-Baroque Szechenyi Baths with a large outdoor pool in Pest’s City Park. These are very much for locals, don't expect day-spa luxury! We've written a handy roundup of Budapest's best baths here.Suggestion to explore on your own
Day 4 Traveling to Eger by Private Car / Arrival in Eger
If you've already sampled some of Hungary's delicious wines, you know you are in for a real treat. Today you will go to Eger to discover the country's most famous wine region. Based on your departure time preference, you will be picked up at your Budapest accommodation for the less than 2-hour journey to the city. A short distance out of Budapest is a potential stop we can arrange for you - Godollo, a Baroque Royal Palace might just pique your interest. The vehicle used for your transfer will be a standard sedan, station wagon or minivan. We can arrange for an upgrade to a more luxurious class of vehicle for an extra fee.Eger is a picturesque and wonderfully unique little city, complete with perfectly preserved baroque architecture and a hilltop castle overlooking the Old Town and the surrounding countryside, which is filled with 10,000 acres of bountiful vineyards. This is the perfect destination for feel-good relaxation, as you can readily sample the local vintages and also indulge in the thermal baths that date from the 1600s. You’ll have a wonderful time exploring the city and the gastronomic culture of the surrounding region. Dobo Ter is Eger’s main square, and it is high up on the list of must-see sights. Here you’ll find lovely restaurants, bars and cafes, as well as wine and music festivals, depending on the time of year. A trip to the castle is also highly recommended. Here you can take a tour and explore Eger’s rich past. You’ll definitely want to explore the nearby Valley of the Beautiful Women, which houses numerous vineyards and wine caves carved into the hillside. Here you can sample numerous local vintages and mingle with the friendly locals. Eger is quaint and quiet, the heart of wine country and a wonderful place to enjoy a timeout from the busier cities of Hungary.Upon arriving in Eger, you'll be driven directly to your accommodation.
Eger Wine and Food Private Walking Tour
Taste the best wines in town, visit family vineyards and cellars, and wow your taste buds during this exceptional wine and food tour. Your expert local guide will take you to two wineries, where you'll learn more about the prestigious history of Eger's wines, and the winemakers themselves. Enjoy electrifying whites and full-bodied reds, get a glimpse behind the scenes, and get acquainted with different stages of wine making and bottling. The crown on this jewel tour is a degustation menu at one of Eger's finest restaurants.Included in your vacation package price
Day 5 Traveling to Kosice by Private Transfer / Arrival in Kosice
Visit the Turkish Bath
If you're looking for an interesting and relaxing activity, you can't beat Eger's Turkish Bath. Built 400 years ago on a natural spring, it's charming for everyone who enjoys lounging at the spa. The building's architecture is unique, and the wellness treatments here are soothing and traditional. If you want a special treat, we highly recommend the Hammam massage. Your Destination Expert will provide more information, or you can visit their website at https://torokfurdo.egertermal.hu/en/wellness/turkish-bath/history/turkish-bath-2.Suggestion to explore on your own
Today you're off to Kosice! After being picked up from your accommodation in Eger by a private driver, you'll enjoy a 2.5-hour non-guided drive. If you'd like to add a stop along the way, our local representative will help you to arrange one. We recommend visiting Szilvásvárad, which is quite famous for its trout and national park, or Aggtelek Cave System, a UNESCO site. The vehicle used for your transfer will be a standard sedan, station wagon or minivan. We can arrange for an upgrade to a more luxurious class of vehicle for an extra fee.Slovakia's second largest city, Kosice (pronounced "Kosh-eet-sa") features a well-preserved Old Town, rich with Art Nouveau, Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic exemplars. Literally standing above it all is the Gothic St. Elisabeth Cathedral, the country's largest church, which reflects 15th century Kosice's brief but glorious time as one of Europe's largest cities. Fought over by a confusing array of armies and kings, cosmopolitan Kosice's many inhabitants are reflected in its architecture and culture, with traces of the Jews, Germans, Turks, and Hungarians who have called this "City of Peace" home, helped make the place a European Capital of Culture, and given it more protected historical monuments than anywhere else in the country. Spend a day strolling the Old Town, then an evening indulging in its lively arts scene, and you won't leave disappointed.Upon your arrival the driver will take you to your centrally located accommodation.
The Singing Fountain
Nestled between the imposing Cathedral of St. Elisabeth and the State Theater, the Singing Fountain adds some liveliness to Kosice's main street. If you time your visit right, you can watch the fountain's jets shoot water illuminated by lights into the air, synchronized with the 22 chimes of a neighboring carillon.Suggestion to explore on your own
Day 6 Your First Full Day in Kosice
Slovak Arts and Crafts Private Class
Even seen a tinker or weaver in action? Watch them at work, then learn to make some crafts yourself! In this class, you can choose between crafting wire, pottery, weaving, painting glass, or making corn husk dolls, all under the guidance of a professional. Naturally, this is a great way to create your own souvenirs!Included in your vacation package price
Traditional Slovak Folk Dance Private Class
Slovakia's folk dances are as varied and as beautiful as the countryside in which they developed, and as interesting as the people who invented them. From the simplicity of village dances to the elaborate stage choreographies of today's ensembles, they mirror the history and culture of a people who have clung tenaciously to their folk traditions and maintained a strong identity despite centuries of subjugation. Enjoy a unique Slovak folk dance lesson based on your preferences.Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package
Day 7 Traveling to High Tatras by Private Transfer / Arrival in High Tatras
Today you will leave Kosice for the High Tatras. Based on your preferred departure time a driver will meet you at your accommodations and take you to the High Tatras. En route, you'll stop at the UNESCO-listed Spis Castle, which you'll have three hours to explore on your own. Please note that the entrance tickets are not included but can be purchased on the spot. The journey takes about five hours in total. The vehicle used for your transfer will be a standard sedan, station wagon or minivan. We can arrange for an upgrade to a more luxurious class of vehicle for an extra fee.Also known as the Slovakian Alps, the High Tatras are gorgeous at any time of year. Whether you’re skiing, hiking, or just relaxing, this is the perfect way to escape the bustle of the city to revel in the breathtaking nature of Central Europe. You’ll find numerous trails for all modes of transportation, from hiking to biking and skiing, whether downhill or cross-country. The mountain air is crisp and clean, the locals are friendly, and everywhere you look you’ll see a picture-perfect view. There are numerous ski resorts in the area, several of which have spas that offer massages and other wellness treatments. The High Tatras central location near the must-see cities of Budapest and Krakow also make it perfect for a stop-over, or the home-base for a series of day trips in the region. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or the ultimate in relaxation, you’ll find it nestled in the rolling hills and rocky crags of these incredible mountains and their unique, inviting atmosphere.Upon your arrival, the driver will take you to your accommodations in High Tatras.
First Steps in the Park
After your arrival we recommend visiting the city park in Tatranská Lomnica, which is the oldest park in the High Tatras and the surrounding area. It is located in the heart of the picturesque mountain settlement of Tatranská Lomnica. It is a popular place for everyday walks with a beautiful view of the Tatra peaks dominated by Lomnický štít. The park hosts cultural and social events for the general public.Suggestion to explore on your own
Day 8 Your First Full Day in High Tatras
High Tatras Private Hiking Tour
High Tatras National Park offers Slovakia's best, highest hikes. Starting at the magnificent mountain lake Strbske Pleso, 1,345 meters above sea level (4,400 feet) you'll travel through Popradske Pleso, a glacier-fed lake sitting in the Mengusovska Valley, where you'll enjoy a lunch while taking in stunning views. Over the course of 14 kilometers (9 miles), you'll take in plenty of photogenic vistas!Included in your vacation package price
The History of the National Park and its Joys
The Tatra National Park Museum in Tatranska Lomnica can trace its roots back to the 19th century, which helps explain the diversity of its collection, with objects related to botany, zoology, history, cartography, geology, and ethnography. If you have enough time, visit the neighboring Ski Museum, which traces winter sports in the High Tatras from their very beginning, until 1945. Highlights including a bobsled collection, and 19th century skis over three meters (nearly ten feet) long!Suggestion to explore on your own
Day 9 Traveling to Bratislava by Private Transfer / Arrival in Bratislava
Today you will leave the High Tatras mountains and descend to Bratislava. The drive to Bratislava, without stops, takes about four hours. We've included a three-hour stop in the UNESCO listed former silver-mining town of Banska Stiavnica, which you can explore on your own, or have lunch there. With this stop, the journey takes around seven hours. Please note that this is a non-guided transfer.The capital of Slovakia and the largest city in the country, Bratislava is the political and cultural epicenter of the region. It has quickly joined the ranks of modern EU capitals, sitting at the crossroads of German, Slovak, Hungarian, and Jewish influences. You’ll see this reflected in the architecture and design of the city, as well as in its cuisine. A true city of culture, Bratislava boasts numerous theaters, museums, galleries, and concert halls. In the past, giants of classical music including Mozart, Haydn, Beethoven, Rubinstein, and Hummel have composed and performed here. Step through a gateway into the walled-in Old Town and you’ll find cobblestone streets, pedestrian alleys and plazas, 18th-century rococo buildings, and lively bars, restaurants, and cafes, from the traditional to the hip and modern. There is deep Jewish history here to explore. The most prominent site in the city is Bratislava castle, which sits stately on a hill overlooking the city on the Danube. Memorable excursions to wine country outside of Bratislava are available, where you can sample some of the region's finest wines. Bratislava’s compact size, combined with its variety of local activities and excursions, and its proximity to Vienna and the beautiful High Tatra mountains, make it a perfectly inviting destination.Upon arrival you'll be taken directly to your accommodation.
Catch the View from a UFO
Ascend Bratislava's architectural marvel, the iconic UFO Bridge (a.k.a. Most SNP or Most Slovenského národného), and indulge in panoramic city views that will leave you breathless. From its sleek restaurant and bar, savor delectable cuisine and sip on exquisite cocktails while taking in the enchanting panorama of Bratislava's skyline. On warmer days, venture to the bridge's enchanting beach bar and soak up the sun while enjoying refreshing drinks and breathtaking views. Let the UFO Bridge be your gateway to an unforgettable Bratislavan experience.Suggestion to explore on your own
Day 10 Your First Full Day in Bratislava
Bratislava Private Walking Tour
One of the best ways to get to know a new city is a private walking tour with a professional local guide. Discover what the Slovak capital has to offer over the course of two hours, and advice on what to do and see afterwards.
Included in your vacation package price
Just Around the Corner
Today you’ll explore the Small Carpathian wine region, renowned for its varietals since Roman times. You’ll be picked up from your accommodations and driven through the ancient royal wine towns of Svaty Jur, Penzinok and Modra, with stops at the most important sights. At a local pottery workshop, you’ll see how the famous Modra pottery is produced. The highlight of this tour is a visit to Red Rock Castle, a wonderfully preserved castle with huge multi-story cellars, the largest in Central Europe. The tour finishes in the wine cellar, sampling the best local wines.Included in your vacation package price
Day 11 Traveling to Vienna by Private Transfer / Day Stop in Vienna
Today you'll be picked up from your accommodations in Bratislava and brought straight to Vienna's airport. The drive should take 45 minutes. The vehicle used for your transfer will be a standard sedan, station wagon or minivan. We can arrange for an upgrade to a more luxurious class of vehicle for an extra fee.Suggested Flight Details:
Departure:
Arrival:
Vienna is a timeless city of high culture, grand cafes, breathtaking architecture and more, all set on the banks of the majestic Danube River. The moment you set foot in the city you’ll see why Vienna’s center is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Often regarded as the world capital of music, Vienna is the place where Beethoven and Mozart made history. Even today a visit to the opera or a classical music performance at one of the city’s sublime concert halls is an unforgettable experience. Stephansplatz, Vienna's main square, is dominated by the impressive eponymous gothic St. Stephen's Cathedral. Inside you’ll find a rich collection of artistic treasures, and the view from the tower is well worth the climb, offering amazing views over the city. But the cathedral is only one of the most visible attractions in Vienna. You won’t want to miss the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace and the imperial Hofburg Palace. Explore the city on foot, in a car, or by bike: the choice is yours. If you’d like to go farther afield you can even take a river cruise to nearby Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, or a bike trip to local wineries. But you don’t have to leave Vienna to have a wonderful time. Simply strolling through the pedestrian zones in the city center and stopping for a coffee and a slice of cake make for a truly enjoyable vacation.
Budapest, Eger, Kosice, High Tatras, Bratislava and Vienna
What's Included in your trip
Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes. Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.
Included
- 3 nights accommodation in Budapest
1 night accommodation in Eger
2 nights accommodation in Kosice
2 nights accommodation in High Tatras
2 nights accommodation in Bratislava - Breakfast (hotels only)
- Budapest Airport Transfer
Budapest - Eger Private Transfer
Eger - Kosice Private Transfer
Kosice - High Tatras Private Transfer with a Stop at Spis Castle
High Tatras - Bratislava Private Transfer with a Stop in Banska Stiavnica
Bratislava - Vienna Airport Private Transfer - Evening Sightseeing Group Cruise
Pest Private Walking Tour
Szentendre Artist's Village Private Tour
Eger Wine and Food Private Walking Tour
Slovak Arts and Crafts Private Class
High Tatras Private Hiking Tour
Little Carpathians Wine Route Private Tour
Bratislava Private Walking Tour
What's excluded in your package
- Flights to and from Europe.
- Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
- Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
- Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
- Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
Benefits of traveling with JayWay
A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.
A travel advisor who speaks your language
We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.
Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day
Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.
A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation
Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.
A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions
We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.
Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out
Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.
On-trip concierge service to smooth out any bumps in the road
Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.
Glowing Reviews From Our Guests
Couldn’t have asked for a better experience! Very well organized, super supportive and great balance to see and do as much as possible!
- Kimberly, Kathryn, Marisela, Kevin, Keith & Lori - District of Columbia
Everything is top notch. Everything was seamless. All the drivers, guides and JayWay Travel staff were great.
- Norman & Terry - California