From the Adriatic to Europe's Heart: Exploring Croatia, Budapest, and Prague

10 Day Tour of Split, Zagreb, Budapest and Prague

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10 Days 9 Nights

Best Time: Jan-Dec

Cultural Exploration

History Buffs

Take an enchanting trip from the Adriatic Sea to the heart of Europe, exploring some of Central Europe’s most scenic & historic cities. Start in Split, where the remnants of Diocletian's Palace transport you back to Roman times. Wander charming medieval lanes in Zagreb and discover why Croatia’s capital is one of Europe’s hottest new destinations. In Budapest, marvel at the stunning Buda Castle and unwind in historic thermal baths. Conclude in Prague, where Prague Castle and the medieval town of Kutná Hora await. With private guided tours and detailed travel guidance through our mobile app, you’ll enjoy stress-free authentic discovery.

Explore the Roman emperor Diocletian's Palace and wander the Venetian alleyways of Split's Old Town.
Tour Zagreb's historic neighborhoods of Kaptol and Gradec with a private guide.
Enjoy panoramic views from Budapest's Buda Castle and relax in the historic Gellért and Rudas baths.
Follow the Royal Route to the majestic Prague Castle, the largest castle complex in Europe.
Take an excursion to the medieval Kutná Hora, renowned for its history and striking "bone church".

Explore the Roman emperor Diocletian's Palace and wander the Venetian alleyways of Split's Old Town.
Tour Zagreb's historic neighborhoods of Kaptol and Gradec with a private guide.
Enjoy panoramic views from Budapest's Buda Castle and relax in the historic Gellért and Rudas baths.
Follow the Royal Route to the majestic Prague Castle, the largest castle complex in Europe.
Take an excursion to the medieval Kutná Hora, renowned for its history and striking "bone church".

Diocletian’s Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Bačvice Beach

Natural Beauty

Old Town

Architecture

Lower Town

Architecture

Hungarian Parliament

Architecture

National Museum

Museums & Galleries

Central Market

Street Markets

Castle Hill

Castles & Chateaux

Prague Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Must see sights

Diocletian’s Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Bačvice Beach

Natural Beauty

Old Town

Architecture

Lower Town

Architecture

Hungarian Parliament

Architecture

National Museum

Museums & Galleries

Central Market

Street Markets

Castle Hill

Castles & Chateaux

Prague Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Starting from

$1749

per person

4.8 (365 reviews)

Not included

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Day-By-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Split

Day 1

Arrive Split

To Be Determined

Arrival in Split and Private Transfer to Hotel from Airport

We will schedule a pick up for 15 minutes after your flight's arrival time. You will be met in the terminal by an English speaking driver holding a sign with your name on it. The ride is for your party only - you will not be sharing a vehicle. The cost of the ride will be included in your itinerary package. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware the car service can fit up to 1 checked item of luggage and 1 personal item per person, such as a purse or small backpack. If you think you will have more baggage, please inform your travel consultant as this may result in an additional fee.

Day 1

Arrive Split

To Be Determined:

Arrival in Split and Private Transfer to Hotel from Airport

Mid-Day/Afternoon:

Diocletian's Palace

Day 1

Arrive Split

Day 1

Arrive Split

To Be Determined

Arrival in Split and Private Transfer to Hotel from Airport

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Explore Palace Ruins & Venetian Alleyways in Old Split

Split's Old Town started out as a luxurious retirement palace for the Roman Emperor Diocletian. As Roman emperors often met bloody ends, about half of the palace consisted of a less luxurious fortress designed to accommodate a large garrison of loyal Roman soldiers. Within the palace's high walls there were also temples, streets, and large courtyards, meaning it was only natural that long after the Diocletian was gone and the empire fallen, much of the palace was incorporated into Split's Old Town. Indeed about half of the Old Town consists of the former palace area. Despite falling into disrepair and constant reconstructions over the intervening millennia, the Palace remains one of the best-preserved examples of Roman architecture in the world. It's principal set-piece buildings, such as Diocletian's mausoleum and the Temple of Jupiter still remain. But the palace is far from being just an archeological site and it continues to this day as a living and breathing historical monument with 2,000 to 3,000 people still resident within its ancient walls. This means that so much tinkering has gone on over the centuries that it's no longer immediately recognizable as an ancient Roman structure. On the other hand, up close and personal you can still make out the remains of some of the imperial apartments that are used today as outdoor bars and cafes and shops. And the medieval tenements built by the Venetians were built in large part from the stones scavenged from Diocletian's original buildings. The tangled mass of alleyways, small squares, and narrow lanes just outside the Palace is also well worth exploring. The Venetian architecture makes the setting particularly enchanting (Split was ruled by the Republic of Venice for centuries).

Day 2

Split

Day 2

Split

Day 2

Split

Day 2

Split

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Walking Tour of Split Old Town & Diocletian's Palace

This two-hour guided tour will take you to the Roman emperor Diocletian's 1700-year-old palace which was built as his personal rest home. Walk from the Bronze Gate through the central hall of the ancient cellars is the main communication line between the busy waterfront promenade, the Riva, and the palace's main forecourt, the Peristyle. You'll also stop by the Cathedral of St Duje, one of the most beautiful cultural attractions on the Adriatic coast, the Roman temple of Jupiter (latterly a Christian baptistry), the fabulous Golden Gate, and the medieval Croatian bishop who introduced the Croatian language in religious services.

Mid-Day

Marjan Peninsula & the Fisherman's Quarter of Veli Varoš

Veli Varoš is a neighborhood situated at the western end of the old town that is crammed full of charming old stone houses and apartments characteristic of Dalmatia, and narrow cobbled streets that wind up the Marjan Hill. The district once represented the poorer part of Split developed by farmers and fishermen looking to make a better living in the city and seeking shelter from Ottoman military incursions. Today property prices have accelerated northwards, but it's still well worth reconnoitering the maze of paths and traffic-free lanes as you head to the top of the neighborhood to catch magical views of the city. Venture beyond the Fisherman's Quarter and you will be surrounded by typically Mediterranean forest landscape on the Marjan Peninsula.

Afternoon

Swim and Sun with the Locals on Bačvice Beach

A rare sandy beach, Bačvice is a favorite among Split locals and hence a great place to indulge in some covert people watching while lapping up the sun. Just a few minutes' walk from the bus and train stations and the ferry terminal, Bačvice beach is also the spiritual home of the traditional Croatian water sport of picigin - a form of volleyball in which a group of players tries to keep a ball in the air in shallow water using the most athletic and acrobatic moves possible. There are showers and changing rooms at both ends of the beach, while Café Zbirac has a reputation for good food and drink. Immediately behind the beach is a swanky modern three-tier pavilion with several cafes and a couple of chic eating places inside. It's a popular venue for after-dark drinking and feasting whatever the time of the year. A coastal path leads from Bačvice past a couple smaller bays and many more cafes; it's a pleasant area for late afternoon or evening perambulations all year round.

Day 3

Split

Day 3

Split

Day 3

Split

Day 3

Split

Early Morning to Afternoon

Excursion to the Idyllic Brač Island

The third-largest of Croatia's islands, Brač is also the nearest major island to Split and therefore the easiest to get to with ferries running regular 50-minute trips to Supetar, an attractive former fishing village with shallow and swimmable pebbly beaches. On the opposite side of the island is the similarly picturesque village of Bol, boasting the magnificent beach of Zlatni Rat, pictures of which adorn just about every advertising brochure there is on Dalmatia's islands. Zlatni Rat has a mild-breezy climate that makes it perfect for windsurfing. Bol is accessible from Supetar by public bus, but to get around the island to see smaller coastal settlements like Postira, Pučišća, Povlja, and Milna, and the highest peak of Vidova Gora, it's best to take a guided tour, hire a taxi, or rent a car. Renting a bicycle is also a great option for exploring the island. This will also give you the chance to explore the island's beautiful interior, with its scrub-covered rocky uplands interspersed with fertile valleys, where you'll find vineyards, olive groves, and orange trees. You'll also see the great man-made piles of limestone built up over centuries by small farmers clearing a place to grow their crops. Just keep in mind that if you visit Brač in the off season, it will be very sleepy. This is great if you like to explore without crowds, but not so great if you mind closed restaurants and attractions.

Day 4

Split to Zagreb

Day 4

Split to Zagreb

Day 4

Split to Zagreb

Day 4

Split to Zagreb

7:50 AM

Transfer to Rail Station by Taxi or Walking

First keep in mind that the rail station is located only about a 1/2-mile (800m) from the Split Old Town. Also consider that if staying in the pedestrian area of Old Town, a car cannot pick you up directly from the hotel, meaning you will have to walk a short distance with your bags anyway. If this is an issue, be sure to arrange assistance with a private transfer service or with your hotel beforehand. UberX is available in Split if you prefer to take a car. If staying in a hotel, they can also arrange a taxi pick up for you. The price should be about 50-100 HRK depending on your hotel location. For the most convenience, you can arrange a private transfer to the rail station. Although antiquated, the Split train station is pleasantly small in comparison with other European cities. You will be dropped off directly in front of the main station building on the waterfront where the main bus station and the ferry terminal are also located. This makes it slightly chaotic when a lot of buses arrive at the same time, but it is much less busy inside the train station where you'll find a number of electronic screens displaying arrival and departure times and platform numbers in both Croat and English. You'll find the train platforms lined up directly out the back of the station hall.

08:35 - 14:54

Rail Journey to Zagreb

The geography of Croatia is not friendly to trains. Towering karst-formation mountains stand between Split and Zagreb, meaning that trains must take a meandering route following river valleys to pass through Dalmatia. The journey takes over 6 hours, which is an hour longer than the fastest buses usually require. But that's okay, because all those steep mountains and narrow valleys make for a wonderfully scenic journey. Plus, you can stretch your legs and use the restroom whenever you like, which is not the case on many buses.

2:54 PM

Arrival in Zagreb and Private Transfer to Hotel

Upon your arrival in Zagreb, your driver will meet you on the platform. He or she will be carrying a sign with your name on it. The driver will drop you off at your hotel. This is a private transfer. The price of the pickup is already included in your itinerary cost so you will not have to pay the driver.

Late Afternoon

Explore the Bishop's Old Town: Kaptol

In the quaint streets of Kaptol you will find the center of Zagreb's nightlife and dining scene, as well as plenty of shopping and historical sight-seeing opportunities. The main landmark and original raison d'etre of Kaptol is the impressive Zagreb cathedral, but you can also discover an open-air farmer's market and architectural gems ranging from the middle ages to the 19th century. The main entrance into Kaptol is through Zagreb's most prominent public space, Ban Jelačić Square. While most visitors do not realize it, Zagreb's Old Town was historically two towns with two very distinct identities and personalities: the bishop's town of Kaptol, and the merchant's town of Gradec on the hill above it. They were in fact often bitter and sometimes even violent rivals, and were separated by a small river where Tkalčićeva Street now runs.

Early Evening

Explore the Merchant's Old Town: Gradec

Zagreb won't strike you as a particularly hilly city, yet it nevertheless has its own funicular which leads to one of its most historic neighborhoods; the former walled medieval town of Gradec. While small, Gradec has all the charms of more famous destinations such as Prague or Krakow, but with fewer crowds. Wandering its cobblestoned lanes you will also be surprised with several delightful viewpoints where you can take in the city spread out below you. Unlike the adjacent Kaptol Old Town, which was built around the cathedral and relied on church administration for its livelihood, Gradec was a town of merchants. Today, however, Gradec is at the heart of Croatian government, as it is where the Sabor (Croatian Parliament) and other Croatian government ministries are located. The center of Gradec is St. Mark's Square, where each weekend from April to October (weather permitting) you can watch Zagreb's Cravat Regiment perform a changing of the guard ceremony. Fun fact - the word cravat, i.e. tie, was derived from these soldiers and their colorful neckties.

Day 5

Zagreb to Budapest

Day 5

Zagreb to Budapest

Day 5

Zagreb to Budapest

Day 5

Zagreb to Budapest

9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Highlights of Zagreb, Guided Tour

On this 2.5-hour private tour, you will see the main sights and vibrant everyday life in Zagreb. You will visit the oldest parts of town, hear genuine Zagreb stories and legends, and enjoy a walk through the old town's green promenade. Highlights include Zagreb cathedral, the short funicular connecting the lower and uppers parts of the city, the oldest part of the city called Gradec were the city's parliament and best museums are to be found, the famous pedestrianized Tkalčićeva Street that has one of the most engaging and fun dining areas in Southern Europe and the open-air market of Dolac.

Mid-Day

Explore the Elegant Lower Town

Walking the Lower Town transports you back to the Belle Époque of the late 19th and early 20th century, when Europe experienced the height of elegance and culture. True, the Lower Town is not as famous as the oldest parts of Zagreb in the Upper Town, but it is where the Croatian national revival made its greatest architectural impact in the final decades of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The refined influences of that period are seen in the numerous Secessionist-style public buildings which are reminiscent of 'Late Empire' Vienna and Prague. Unlike the Upper Town, the streets are mostly wide and airy, and the layout is intended to give the impression of grandeur. The Lower Town is also the site of Zagreb's 'green horseshoe' where many of the city's best museums and galleries are interlaced with large beautifully manicured garden squares.

3:50 PM

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains depart from Zagreb Main Station (i.e. Zagreb Glavni kolodvor), the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option - trams drop off directly in front of the station. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

16:35 - 22:24

Rail Journey from Zagreb to Budapest

Your scenic journey to Budapest should take about 5.5 to 8 hours, depending on whether you are able to take a direct train or not. In most cases, you will travel on an InterCity train, which is a modern and comfortable train with air conditioning. You will have to go passport control as you cross over from the Croatian town of Koprivnica to Gyékényes to on the Hungarian side. The look and feel of the natural setting will change slightly as you travel northward. The train will roll through what is known as Continental Croatia before passing into the Hungarian region of Southern Transdanubia; you'll notice that Croatia is noticeably more hilly and densely forested, while Transdanubia is rather flat without too many prominent geographical features. If taking the direct train, you will travel along scenic Lake Balaton for part of the journey.

10:24 PM

Private Transfer from the Budapest Rail Station

Upon your arrival in Budapest, your driver will meet you on the platform. He will be carrying a sign with your name on it. The driver will drop you off at your hotel. This is a private transfer. The price of the pickup is already included in your itinerary cost so you will not have to pay the driver. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware the car service can fit up to 1 checked item of luggage and 1 personal item per person, such as a purse or small backpack. If you think you will have more baggage, please inform your travel consultant as this may result in an additional fee.

Day 6

Budapest

Day 6

Budapest

Day 6

Budapest

Day 6

Budapest

9:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Best of Budapest: Half-Day Walking Tour of Highlights & Hidden Finds

During your tour you will take in a gorgeous vista of the city from the Fisherman's Bastion, explore the winding streets of the Castle District, gaze in awe at the striking interior of St. Stephen's Basilica, travel along the city's most elegant avenue and more. Along the way you will experience the city as a local does, stopping to check out intimate courtyards, enjoying a pastry and soaking in the ambiance of Budapest's most elegant cafes.

Afternoon

Budapest Castle and the Castle Hill

The historic Renaissance and Baroque architecture of Buda's hilltop Castle District make it feel like a quaint step back in time. Indeed, in the little squares and narrow lanes of the Castle District, you will find the heart of historic Hungary. Numerous points in the Castle District also provide breathtaking views over the Danube and the Pest side of the city.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Gellért Hill, and the Gellért and Rudas Baths

You can enjoy the best view in Budapest from the peak of Gellért Hill. Just beneath it you will find two of the city's most famous baths. The Secession-style Gellért baths, with an elegant collonaded main pool and incredible tile-work, and the 500-year-old Rudas Baths, which were built by the Turks when they ruled Hungary.

Day 7

Budapest to Prague

Day 7

Budapest to Prague

Day 7

Budapest to Prague

Day 7

Budapest to Prague

Early Morning/Morning

Exploring Central Pest

In Central Pest you will discover the beating heart of the city, with grand apartment houses and art nouveau architectural gems. No visit to Budapest is complete without seeing its highlights, including St. Stephen's Basilica, which dramatically rises above the city, and the Chain Bridge, which regally spans the Danube.

Morning/Mid-Day

Andrássy Avenue & the State Opera House

The wide, tree-lined Andrássy Avenue is Budapest's most prominent street, and is lined by imposing neo-Renaissance palaces and buildings. It is home to the breathtakingly beautiful State Opera House, making it the musical heart of Hungary. You will also find the superb House of Terror museum, which focuses on the horrors inflicted by 20th century totalitarian regimes.

2:30 PM

Private Transfer to Rail Station in Budapest

A private transfer service will pick you up from the N/A and deliver you to Budapest Nyugati Train Station. Your itinerary will provide detailed information on navigating the train station and finding your train, making the whole process simple and stress-free. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware the car service can fit up to 1 checked item of luggage and 1 personal item per person, such as a purse or small backpack. If you think you will have more baggage, please inform your travel consultant as this may result in an additional fee.

15:30 - 22:11

Rail Journey to Budapest

This seven-hour journey will take you across three countries – Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. In Hungary you will follow along one of the prettiest stretches of the Danube River. In Slovakia, you will pass through the flat western portion of the country, and its capital of Bratislava. In the Czech Republic, the terrain will become more hilly again, and you will pass through some beautiful countryside on your way to Prague.

10:11 PM

Arrival & Transfer by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains arrive in Prague Main Station (Praha hl.n.) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that the easiest way to reach your hotel may be by public transport. Taxis are available but are known for taking advantage of tourists. However if you prefer the convenience of not carrying your bags on public transport, they are an option. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags. Uber and Bolt Taxis are also available for those with the app.

Day 8

Prague

Day 8

Prague

Day 8

Prague

Day 8

Prague

9:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Prague Castle & Royal Route Guided Walk

On this charming guided walk, you will explore the Prague Castle, the largest castle complex in all of Europe. To reach the castle you will trace the Royal Coronation Route and cross the Charles Bridge, whose “speaking stones” reveal the amazing and often cruel history that occurred there. Your tour guide will then take you either through the castle courtyards and into the dramatic St. Vitus Cathedral in the center of the castle complex, or through the upper part of the castle district around the oversized palaces of the old Catholic nobility and the top of the Castle Steps for incomparable views over the red rooftops of the Little Quarter.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Prague Castle and the Castle District

Prague Castle is the most visited destination in Prague, and for good reason. The castle's history stretches back over a 1000 years, and it has served as the seat of government for Bohemian kings, Holy Roman Emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic. The castle sits impressively perched on a hill overlooking the city, providing a breathtaking and romantic view.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Exploring the Little Quarter

The Little Quarter is a quaint yet lively quarter of Prague tightly nestled on the slope and riverbank beneath the Prague Castle. It is filled with the homes of medieval and renaissance nobility who wanted to live as closely as possible to the castle. Picturesque side streets, beautiful churches, and impressive Baroque architecture all abound within the Little Quarter.

Day 9

Prague

Day 9

Prague

Day 9

Prague

Day 9

Prague

Early Morning to Afternoon

Excursion to the Medieval Town of Kutná Hora

On this full day self-guided excursion you will discover the charming Bohemian town of Kutná Hora. An hour-long train ride will take you through the attractive countryside, and then you will begin exploring the medieval town. Due to its silver mines, Kutná Hora was rich and powerful during the Middle Ages. It was even declared a Royal town, meaning that the Bohemian King directly controlled the town. The town spent much of its wealth on beautiful buildings, many of which still exist today, and which have earned the town the status of a UNESCO World Cultural site. Your visit may include stops at the incredible Gothic church of St. Barbara, the Royal Mint, and if you choose, the famous "Bone Church".

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Wanderings in the Old Town

A visit to the Old Town transports you to an entirely different era. A labyrinth of twisting cobblestone lanes and alleys surrounds Old Town Square, which has been Prague's municipal center since the Middle Ages. The square is lined by magnificent churches and imposing Renaissance palaces. As you wander through the Old Town, you discover numerous other delights, including several beautiful churches, a plentiful supply of cozy cafes and pubs, and an outdoor market dating back to the Middle Ages.

Day 10

Depart Prague

Day 10

Depart Prague

Day 10

Depart Prague

Day 10

Depart Prague

To Be Determined

Transfer to Prague Airport by Private Car

A car service will pick you up from the N/A at the time listed above, and deliver you to the Prague Airport for your flight departure. This is a private transfer just for your travel party, and you will not need to pay the driver for the transfer, as it is already included in the cost of the itinerary.

Click to See Details

From the Adriatic to Europe's Heart: Exploring Croatia, Budapest, and Prague

10 Day Tour of Split, Zagreb, Budapest and Prague

$1749

Secure Your Customizable Trip Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Craft Your Own Itinerary Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.

Trip Map & Itinerary

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Arrival in Split and Private Transfer to Hotel from Airport

Secure Your Customizable Trip
Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Craft Your Own Itinerary
Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.