Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Bohemian Europe with our Eastern Adventure: 3 Week trip. This meticulously crafted itinerary offers an immersive experience, allowing you to delve into the vibrant cultures, rich histories, and captivating landscapes of eight diverse cities across eight countries. From Berlin’s edgy urban scene to the scenic beauty of the Croatian coast, this budget-friendly exploration promises cultural immersion, culinary delights, and vibrant nightlife. Travel sustainably with eco-conscious transport options, and experience the best of Eastern Europe in just three weeks.
Route: Berlin Krakow Prague Vienna Bratislava Budapest Belgrade Zagreb Split
Nights: 21
Countries Visited: 8
Transport: Train or bus during the day & 1 overnight train
Sustainability: This trip creates 202.4 kg of carbon emissions. Flying the same route would create 810.7kg ♻️
Reviews: All independent reviews
On this route, you’ll get to take in the best of Eastern Europe’s essentials. Exploring amazing countries that were off-limits until quite recently in Europe’s history, this fast-paced 3-week Eastern Europe interrailing trip covers a real mix of destinations from grand old cities to stunning Adriatic coastal towns.
Hit the ground running in bohemian Berlin, one of Europe’s most historically rich cities. With more incredible museums than you can shake a stick at, you’ll have plenty of the city’s history to explore! Wander around its streets and pass what was the border between Eastern and Western Europe before the Berlin Wall fell. Counterbalance the culture and history lessons with bar-hopping and partying at the city’s many clubs – from the edgy to the downright bizarre. If you’re lucky enough, you might even get into Berghain…
Then you’ll head to Krakow, Poland. Packed with imposing and impressive architecture, homely eateries and luscious green parks – there’s plenty to fill your days with. With the city’s natural beauty, it’s hard to believe that it’s also bursting at the seams with amazing and vibrant nightlife. Whilst there, be sure take a day trip to Auschwitz and Birkenau. We guarantee that it’ll be one of the most moving experiences you’ll ever have on your travels.
Next, head to magnificent Prague where you can soak up the fairy-tale atmosphere alongside plenty of cheap and locally made beers. Then you’ll head to Vienna, the musical capital of Austria where coffee and cake reign supreme. A short hop across the border takes you to Bratislava to see its brilliant buildings and Disney-esque castles for yourself, before following the blue Danube as you make your way to the Hungarian capital of Budapest. Take a dip and relax in a thermal bath before sinking a glass of the local wine, Tokaji. You’ll appreciate some relaxation before carrying the party on at one of Budapest’s many Ruin Bars. The final port of call along the Danube is Belgrade, the capital of Serbia and one of Eastern Europe’s most interesting and underrated destinations.
Next up, you’ll head to Croatia, calling first at the vibrant capital of Zagreb, before heading South to the stunning city of Split perched on the shores of the Adriatic. Visit Krka National park, take a ferry across to Hvar or Brac islands for a relaxing day trip..
Head to the beach, chill with a cocktail and watch the sun set on the trip of a lifetime!
– Train tickets from the first to the last city on the route, as shown on the map.
– Any Interrail or Eurail passes if required, based on the best value for you.
– All possible seat reservations – not just the compulsory ones!
– Accommodation in top-rated, centrally located hostels or hotels – tested by us
– Walking or public transport directions between the stations and your booked accommodation.
– Travel Disruption Protection – alternative travel included if there is a strike or similar disruption.
– 24hr emergency phone number to use while you’re away.
– Personalised travel pack with your travel times, accommodation information, directions, language guides and things to see and do in each location.
– Exclusive discounts on attractions across Europe.
Route: Berlin Krakow Prague Vienna Bratislava Budapest Belgrade Zagreb Split
Nights: 21
Countries Visited: 8
Transport: Train or bus during the day & 1 overnight train
Sustainability: This trip creates 202.4 kg of carbon emissions. Flying the same route would create 810.7kg ♻️
Reviews: All independent reviews
On this route, you’ll get to take in the best of Eastern Europe’s essentials. Exploring amazing countries that were off-limits until quite recently in Europe’s history, this fast-paced 3-week Eastern Europe interrailing trip covers a real mix of destinations from grand old cities to stunning Adriatic coastal towns.
Hit the ground running in bohemian Berlin, one of Europe’s most historically rich cities. With more incredible museums than you can shake a stick at, you’ll have plenty of the city’s history to explore! Wander around its streets and pass what was the border between Eastern and Western Europe before the Berlin Wall fell. Counterbalance the culture and history lessons with bar-hopping and partying at the city’s many clubs – from the edgy to the downright bizarre. If you’re lucky enough, you might even get into Berghain…
Then you’ll head to Krakow, Poland. Packed with imposing and impressive architecture, homely eateries and luscious green parks – there’s plenty to fill your days with. With the city’s natural beauty, it’s hard to believe that it’s also bursting at the seams with amazing and vibrant nightlife. Whilst there, be sure take a day trip to Auschwitz and Birkenau. We guarantee that it’ll be one of the most moving experiences you’ll ever have on your travels.
Next, head to magnificent Prague where you can soak up the fairy-tale atmosphere alongside plenty of cheap and locally made beers. Then you’ll head to Vienna, the musical capital of Austria where coffee and cake reign supreme. A short hop across the border takes you to Bratislava to see its brilliant buildings and Disney-esque castles for yourself, before following the blue Danube as you make your way to the Hungarian capital of Budapest. Take a dip and relax in a thermal bath before sinking a glass of the local wine, Tokaji. You’ll appreciate some relaxation before carrying the party on at one of Budapest’s many Ruin Bars. The final port of call along the Danube is Belgrade, the capital of Serbia and one of Eastern Europe’s most interesting and underrated destinations.
Next up, you’ll head to Croatia, calling first at the vibrant capital of Zagreb, before heading South to the stunning city of Split perched on the shores of the Adriatic. Visit Krka National park, take a ferry across to Hvar or Brac islands for a relaxing day trip.
Head to the beach, chill with a cocktail and watch the sun set on the trip of a lifetime!
Berlin is the alternative, cool kid of Europe and a pro at being edgy. It’s how people dress, their liberal attitudes, the graffiti, the skaters and BMXers, the art, the clubs, and the food. Berlin is also crammed full of fascinating WWII history around every corner so there really is something for everyone!
Highlights
See a section of the old Berlin Wall
Climb the dome of the renovated Reichstag
Discover the nightlife of Schoneberg and Kreuzberg
Trains to Krakow – 10 hours
Krakow escaped being reduced to rubble in WWII, preserving the postcard-perfect Old Town and the cellars housing its famous bars and clubs. That’s not to say it doesn’t share a chapter of history in the nearby Auschwitz Concentration Camp which demands a humbling visit.
Highlights
See Europe’s largest medieval market square
Take photos of Poland’s best-preserved city
Find one of many Gothic cellar bars open until late
Night Train to Prague – 9 hours
Prague is stunning; there’s no better word to describe it. On any side street or square you’ll find unique buildings full of colourful detail. The Czech Republic is also the home of Pilsner beer, with no lack of establishments to sample it.
Highlights
Cross the enchanting Charles Bridge
Marvel at the curvy design of the Dancing Building
Try all the Czech Pilsner beers in the Old Town pub
Train to Vienna – 4 hours
Vienna is crisp, clean, and chic with its biggest draw factor being the multitude of classical palaces and grand imperial buildings. Whether you’re into royal history or not, the sheer scale of it here will be encapsulating for all, whilst not forgetting the great bars and eateries.
Highlights
Visit the Spanish Riding School of Vienna
Eat real apple strudel and wiener schnitzel
Go to a classical concert in a city renowned for music
Train to Bratislava – 1 hour
Bratislavans are incredibly friendly and, as the city has not yet been discovered by the mainstream tourist (stag-dos aside), food, beer, and wine are still cheap here. It’s just as beautiful as its neighbouring Eastern European capitals, but smaller, quieter, and with an idyllic medieval feel.
Highlights
Climb up to the 19th century castle
Take a night tour to admire Bratislava’s beauty
Do some folk-art shopping at Úľuv
Train to Budapest – 3 hours
Proudly guarding the Danube, the once twin cities of Buda and Pest show off every architectural style from Baroque to Art Nouveau. With its rickety trams and turn-of-the-century feel you’ll be charmed by its past while you cure your hangover in any of the multitude of hot baths.
Highlights
Relax in the 15th century thermal spas
Take panoramic photos from the scenic Buda castle
Go to Sziget rock and indie festival in August
Bus to Belgrade – 9 hours
The capital of Serbia won’t disappoint you. Visitors from surrounding countries come here for the all-night party scene and friendly atmosphere. Tourists also come to see the world’s largest Orthodox church or just wander around the bohemian town centre, with its artsy cafes and hipster foodie hangouts.
Highlights
Visit the 18th century Belgrade Fortress
Climb the cobbled streets of Skadarlija
Float down the Danube on the splavovi party boats
Bus to Zagreb – 6 hours
A city of flowers and fountains with a curious Mediterranean feel, Zagreb is a year-round destination with a museum-café-theatre culture by day and a lakeside party by night. In winter, a tram ride out of the city provides scenic hiking and skiing opportunities.
Highlights
Catch a 360-view from the Lotrščak Tower
Have a coffee in Kino Europa, Zagreb’s oldest cinema
Stroll through the beautiful Mirogoj Cemetery
Bus to Split – 5 hours
Even though Split is a port for many Croatian islands, sitting elegantly between the Adriatic and the mountains, the country’s second city has two Unesco World Heritage sites within its walls, a marble waterfront walkway, and a buzzing atmosphere around its bars and pubs.
Highlights
See the amazing ruin of Diocletian’s Palace
Admire the city as you approach it from the sea
Stroll along the glittering waterfront
The quickest way to get to and from the UK will be to book a flight. Travelling by train from the UK to Berlin could also work, but travelling back by train/bus from Split will take you a long time so bear that in mind!
Need extra time in Split at the end as well? Let us know and we’ll customise this for you!
