Budapest to Rome

Thriving capital cities and quaint seaside villages, hidden mountain hamlets and an Old Town set on the water – Eastern Europe flaunts a pretty impressive display of attractions. Discover the highlights of this diverse region, plus a whole lot of its lesser-known spots, as you make your way down from Hungary through the Balkans and east over to Italy. Encounter the up-and-coming, once war-ravaged Sarajevo, fall in love with the walled city of medieval Dubrovnik, kick into adventure mode in Ljubljana and feast until your tastebuds are content in Venice, Cinque Terre, Florence and Rome. On this exciting 26-day adventure, you’ll get expert local guidance and a small group of like-minded travellers for companions – what more could you need for an epic adventure? This trip is made for travellers who value their independence but also want the benefit of a local leader and a group of like-minded travellers. The itinerary has a mix of included activities and free time when your leader will offer suggestions. Please budget spending money for optional activities you want to partake in.As accommodation on this trip is twin-share, single travellers will share a room with other travellers of the same gender. This trip is an excellent opportunity to get to know other like-minded people, so embrace it! European hotels often don't have double beds but two single beds that can be pushed together/apart. Rooms can be small, especially compared to American or Australian standards, and in most cases, bathroom facilities will be shared. A single supplement is not available on this trip. Summer temperatures can be very high in many regions visited (over 40°C), which can be uncomfortable. It’s essential to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Many European hotel rooms are not equipped with air-conditioning. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability for that season. The trains on this trip are comfortable and have toilets. However, they can sometimes be quite busy. Please note that you'll have to carry your own luggage on and off the train, so make sure it doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. Check the ‘Packing’ section in the ‘Essential Trip Information.’