Looking for the ultimate 7-day European trip that won’t drain your wallet? This Eastern Europe itinerary takes you through four of the most beautiful and affordable countries — Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania. You’ll explore magical cities, ride scenic trains or comfy FlixBuses, and experience unforgettable moments — all on a tight backpacker budget. Whether you’re a solo traveler or a couple on an adventure, this guide will help you book everything smartly and affordably.
🇵🇱 Day 1: Kraków, Poland – A Fairytale Start 🏰
Your journey begins in the historic city of Kraków, one of Europe’s most budget-friendly and enchanting cities. Start your trip by wandering through the Main Market Square, admiring St. Mary’s Basilica, and discovering the royal heritage at Wawel Castle.
🚌 Compare trains & buses to Kraków on Omio
✈️ Book your flight to Kraków on Skyscanner
🏨 Find hotels in Kraków on TripAdvisor OR Booking.com
📍 Top things to do in Kraków on GetYourGuide
Top Activities:
👉Tour Wawel Royal Castle
👉Take a day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau
👉Eat pierogi at a local milk bar
👉Walk along the Vistula River at night
🔖 Book Top activities to do in Poland on TripAdvisor
🇸🇰 Day 2: Bratislava, Slovakia – Castles & Cobblestones 🏞
On Day 2, catch a comfortable FlixBus or train from Kraków to Bratislava, the cozy capital of Slovakia. The ride takes around 6 hours, offering lovely views along the way. Buses are frequent, cheap, and modern, while trains offer a scenic alternative if you prefer rail travel. You can easily book both on platforms like Omio or FlixBus, where you’ll often find discount tickets for under €20.
🚌 Book Kraków to Bratislava buses on FlixBus
🚆 Search trains from Kraków to Bratislava on Omio
🏨 Find hotels in Bratislava on TripAdvisor OR Booking.com
📍 Top things to do in Bratislava on GetYourGuide
Top Activities:
👉Visit Bratislava Castle and enjoy panoramic views
👉Stroll around the Old Town
👉Enjoy coffee by the Danube
👉Climb the UFO Tower for a stunning cityscape
🔖 Book Top activities to do in Slovakia on TripAdvisor
🇭🇺 Day 3–4: Budapest, Hungary–Thermal Bliss & Night Cruises
Next, board a 2.5-hour FlixBus or direct train to Budapest, Hungary’s vibrant capital. With ancient spas, buzzing ruin pubs, and majestic architecture, Budapest is the perfect city to spend two full days — and it won’t break the bank.
🚌 Book Bratislava to Budapest buses on FlixBus
🚆 Check Bratislava–Budapest train options on Omio
🏨 Browse budget hotels in Budapest on TripAdvisor OR Booking.com
📍 Top things to do in Budapest on GetYourGuide
Top Activities:
👉Soak in Széchenyi or Gellért thermal baths
👉Cruise the Danube after sunset
👉Visit Fisherman’s Bastion and Buda Castle
👉Explore the lively ruin pubs in District VII
🔖 Book Top activities to do in Hungary on TripAdvisor
🇷🇴 Day 5–6: Cluj-Napoca, Romania – Transylvanian Charm 🎒
Time to go off the beaten path! Catch a direct overnight FlixBus or early morning train from Budapest to Cluj-Napoca, Romania (approx. 7–8 hours). The buses are well-equipped with Wi-Fi and AC, offering a comfortable night’s rest. This youthful city blends rich history, great food, and chill vibes — all at extremely affordable prices.
🚌 Search Budapest to Cluj-Napoca buses on FlixBus
🚆 Book Budapest to Cluj trains on Omio
🏨 Find hotels in Cluj-Napoca on TripAdvisor OR Booking.com
📍 Best activities in Cluj on GetYourGuide
Top Activities:
👉Discover St. Michael’s Church and Unirii Square
👉Explore local cafés and student hangouts
👉Take a tour of the eerie Turda Salt Mine
👉Hike around Hoia Forest if you dare!
🔖 Book Top activities to do in Romania on GetYourGuide
🇭🇺 Day 7: Return to Budapest – One Last Evening 🎁
Wrap up your journey by returning to Budapest — a direct FlixBus or train takes around 8 hours from Cluj-Napoca. Make the most of your final night by indulging in a romantic dinner by the river or grabbing souvenirs from the Great Market Hall. Fly out the next day from Budapest Airport.Find out the 10 Best Budget Airlines to Travel Across Europe (2025)
🚌 Book Cluj to Budapest buses on FlixBus
🚆 Search Cluj–Budapest train schedules on Omio
✈️ Find return flights from Budapest on Skyscanner
🏨 Stay overnight near the airport on TripAdvisor OR Booking.com
📍 See more things to do in Budapest on GetYourGuide
🧭 How to Travel Around Eastern Europe on a Budget (Quick Guide):
Traveling between these countries is surprisingly easy and cheap if you use FlixBus or Omio. Here’s what to keep in mind:
✅ FlixBus offers direct, affordable routes between all major cities — often under €20
✅ Omio lets you compare trains and buses in one place for the best prices
✅ Overnight buses/trains save you both money and time on accommodation
✅ Booking 1–2 weeks in advance gives you the cheapest rates
✅ Major cities have central bus & train stations, so no extra transport needed
✨ Want More Budget Europe Travel Guides?
👉 🌍 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit in Europe This Summer (2025)
👉 ✈️ 10 Best Budget Airlines to Travel Across Europe (2025)
👉 🏨 Top 7 Budget Hotels in Europe Under €50 (2025 Edition)
👉 🏨 Best Budget Hotels in Europe’s Most Affordable Countries (2025)