UNESCO in Hungary, Slovakia and Poland
On this comprehensive UNESCO World Heritage-focused itinerary, you will see all the different sites and understand the reasons why they are on this prominent list. Budapest's historical panoramic view, the folklore heritage of Hollókő, the Puszta with its pastoral society, and the first-class Tokaj wine region are the places you are going to visit in Hungary. Shake your legs with locals on a folk dance class in Kosice, visit one of Europe's largest castle complexes in Spis and hike in the High Tatras in Slovakia. Next Poland awaits you with its bucket-list sites, like the Wieliczka Salt Mine, Auschwitz, and the old city of Krakow itself. This three-country visit, although designed around World Heritages, does not have two similar sites. Don't forget to pack your camera to shoot rural villages, opulent medieval castles, breathtaking vistas, and regal cities.
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.
4th Paragraph - Extra services (NO need to edit)
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.
3 Nights in Budapest
3 Nights in Budapest
3 Nights 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.
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.
Day 1
Day 1 - Arrival in Budapest
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.
Day 2
Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Budapest
Pest Private Walking Tour
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.
Day 3
Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Budapest
Walk on the Buda Side
What Time is it? Shopping Time!
Shopping is easy in Budapest since the best place to find authentic souvenirs is the Great Market Hall, which you should already be planning to visit for its food. You will find many handmade products on the second floor of the building, or you can choose from the so called Hungarikums (traditional Hungarian goods). If you're a shopaholic - don't worry, we won't tell anyone - the city's main shopping street, Vaci Street, is definitely the place to go. For something more luxurious, head to the UNESCO-listed Andrassy Boulevard.
The Impressive Museum Of Fine Arts
Day 4
Day 4 - Traveling to Tokaj by Private Transfer
2 Nights in Tokaj
2 Nights in Tokaj
2 Nights in Tokaj
The town of Tokaj (pronounced "Toe-kai") is charming enough, but what really lures visitors is the surrounding UNESCO-protected Tokaj wine region, beloved for its whites. Located on a small, sunny volcanic plateau protected by nearby mountains, local grapes enjoy a very long ripening period, which combined with "noble rot" mold, produces memorably sweet wines. These exclusive drinks have been the favorites of nobility and other notables for centuries, from Hayden and Franz Josef to Napoleon III and Bram Stoker's Dracula. Some of the most famous of the area's unique wines are its Aszu (AKA Tokay), the world's first botrytized wine, and the exclusive, extraordinarily sweet Eszencia.
The town of Tokaj (pronounced "Toe-kai") is charming enough, but what really lures visitors is the surrounding UNESCO-protected Tokaj wine region, beloved for its whites. Located on a small, sunny volcanic plateau protected by nearby mountains, local grapes enjoy a very long ripening period, which combined with "noble rot" mold, produces memorably sweet wines. These exclusive drinks have been the favorites of nobility and other notables for centuries, from Hayden and Franz Josef to Napoleon III and Bram Stoker's Dracula. Some of the most famous of the area's unique wines are its Aszu (AKA Tokay), the world's first botrytized wine, and the exclusive, extraordinarily sweet Eszencia.
Day 4
Day 4 - Arrival in Tokaj
Upon your arrival in Tokaj, your driver will bring you directly to your accommodations.
Learn About Tokaj's People and Wine
It's best to understand the history of a region before you taste its wine. So your first stop should be the Tokaji Museum, to gain important knowledge about the region and its famous wine. The people of Tokaj have been involved in the cultivation of grapes since the 13th century, with techniques introduced by Italian and Walloonian settlers. The World Heritage Wine Museum features a modern exhibit about Tokaj’s wines, including barrel-making, grape varieties, and food pairings.
Day 5
Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Tokaj
Tokaj Wine Tasting Half Day Private Tour
Taste a liquid more than worth its weight in gold, the world famous "Vinum regnum, rex vinorum," Tokaji Aszú. The area's first naturally sweet wine was made in the 16th century and it gained its fame right away. Today you'll drive by vineyards planted on smooth volcanic slopes, visit estates, taste crispy dry and silky sweet whites... and leave the tour with rich tastes in your mouth and warmth in your heart.
Athens on the Bodrog
Today a sleepy little town near the Slovakian border, Sarospatak was a thriving city under the dominion of the Rakoczi dynasty, in the 16th and 17th centuries. At its height, it was known as “Athens by the Bodrog" thanks to the Reformed College founded there in 1531 (it's still among the best in Hungary). The school has a lavish library that's definitely worth visiting. Sarospatak's medieval castle is a piece of architectural history as well. If you have enough energy, visit Tengerszem Nature Preserve, an industrial site turned into a cherished natural wonder.
Day 6
Day 6 - Traveling to Kosice by Private Transfer
Today you will trade Tokaj for Kosice, getting picked up at your hotel in the former at your preferred time, and driving straight to your accommodations in Kosice, 1.5 hours away.
2 Nights in Kosice
2 Nights in Kosice
2 Nights in Kosice
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.
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.
Day 6
Day 6 - Arrival in Kosice
Upon your arrival the driver will take you to your centrally located accommodation.
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.
Day 7
Day 7 - Your First Full Day in Kosice
Cave and Castle Private Tour
Slovak Arts and Crafts Private Class
Day 8
Day 8 - Traveling to High Tatras by Private Transfer
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.
1 Night in High Tatras
1 Night in High Tatras
1 Night in High Tatras
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.
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.
Day 8
Day 8 - Arrival in High Tatras
Upon your arrival, the driver will take you to your accommodations 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!
Day 9
Day 9 - Traveling to Krakow by Private Transfer
Today your driver will pick you up from your accommodations in High Tatras and take you to Krakow. The drive will take approximately 3 hours. For an additional fee we can also arrange for a stop in the winter capital of Poland, Zakopane, or the UNESCO listed Wieliczka Salt Mine.
3 Nights in Krakow
3 Nights in Krakow
3 Nights in Krakow
Krakow may not be the largest city in Poland, but it is by far the most popular with travelers. Less industrial than Warsaw, Krakow was once Poland’s royal capital, and unlike the rest of the country, came out of World War II with its gorgeous architecture mostly unscathed. One glance at the city’s perfectly preserved and restored Old Town and it will be abundantly clear why Krakow is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. This compact historical district houses the largest square in Europe, where you can stroll, shop from the market, and sample some tasty Polish delicacies. Krakow’s cultural life is rich and there are more than enough classical and jazz concerts to attend during your stay. Just walk through Old Town any evening and you’ll find warmly lit cafes, restaurants and bars. Some of the most prominent sites in and around the city are linked with the grim, albeit highly important historical facts, as evidenced by the memorials in the Jewish Kazimierz district and the Auschwitz concentration camp located nearby - chilling and vivid reminders of World War II. You can also explore Poland’s natural wonders from Krakow, with visits to the atmospheric Wieliczka Salt Mine, and the Tatra Mountains all comfortable day trips.
Krakow may not be the largest city in Poland, but it is by far the most popular with travelers. Less industrial than Warsaw, Krakow was once Poland’s royal capital, and unlike the rest of the country, came out of World War II with its gorgeous architecture mostly unscathed. One glance at the city’s perfectly preserved and restored Old Town and it will be abundantly clear why Krakow is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. This compact historical district houses the largest square in Europe, where you can stroll, shop from the market, and sample some tasty Polish delicacies. Krakow’s cultural life is rich and there are more than enough classical and jazz concerts to attend during your stay. Just walk through Old Town any evening and you’ll find warmly lit cafes, restaurants and bars. Some of the most prominent sites in and around the city are linked with the grim, albeit highly important historical facts, as evidenced by the memorials in the Jewish Kazimierz district and the Auschwitz concentration camp located nearby - chilling and vivid reminders of World War II. You can also explore Poland’s natural wonders from Krakow, with visits to the atmospheric Wieliczka Salt Mine, and the Tatra Mountains all comfortable day trips.
Day 9
Day 9 - Arrival in Krakow
When you arrive in Krakow, your driver will bring you straight to your centrally located accommodation.
Exploring Krakow
Today you’ll be getting a feel for the story of the city with a private tour with a local expert. There's much to discover as you walk the famed Royal Route through the city's heart, on this tour filled to the brim with historical facts and anecdotes. You'll wander from the Barbican and St. Florian's Gate to the spectacular hilltop royal Wawel Castle, visiting the Main Square with its Cloth Hall and St. Mary's Basilica along the way.
Day 10
Day 10 - Your First Full Day in Krakow
Wieliczka Salt Mine Group Tour With A Private Driver
Prepare to be amazed at the devotion that drove miners to carve figures, monuments and altar pieces into the walls of an 800-year-old salt mine. This underground world has earned a place on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage list. As you descend 360 of the tour's total 800 steps into the salt mine, you'll feel like you're entering a vast underground city complete with huge caverns and underground lakes, 135 meters beneath the surface. One of the most unique aspects is the largest underground chapel, devoted to Saint Kinga, a Hungarian princess who is said to have spurned a marriage proposal by the Polish king by tossing his engagement ring into a salt mine in Transylvania.
Krakow Wawel Royal Hill Group Tour
Discover Krakow's aristocratic past on this interesting excursion to the Wawel Royal Castle. It's a great chance to explore the most important hill in Poland while listening to your guide telling you all about the history of Poland's royal families. You'll get a brilliant sensory experience and learn more about history at the same time.
Day 11
Day 11 - Your Second Full Day in Krakow
Auschwitz-Birkenau Group Tour with a Private Driver
We invite you to visit one of the most expressive and symbolic locations in Poland. You'll explore the Auschwitz Museum and Birkenau Camp, a place that should be experienced and seen at least once in your lifetime. You'll have a private tour to the museum, where you'll join a group of about 30 people.
Day 12
Day 12 - Departure Day
Our driver will pick you up in from your accommodation and take you to Krakow Airport in plenty of time for your departing flight.
What's Included
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.
Budapest
Tokaj
Kosice
High Tatras
Krakow
package excludes:
- 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
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.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.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.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.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.Choose the month of travel, how many travelers and what star level accommodation you'd like to stay in, then get an instant price estimate.
Once you’ve done that you can request a tailor-made itinerary based on this by entering just a few more details.
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