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      • Hotels: Standard Class

      • 06/22/2025 - 07/04/2025

      • Max Participants: 16

      • 12 Days / 12 Nights

      Overview

      Embark on a 13-day journey from Budapest to Istanbul, exploring a lesser-known but richly rewarding route through Eastern Europe. Witness the stunning architecture and vibrant culture of Bucharest, the medieval charm of Sighisoara, and the haunting allure of "Dracula's Castle" in Transylvania. Conclude your adventure in the captivating city of Istanbul, where East meets West. Join us on this extraordinary journey, all while earning professional development credit with other educators.

      A map of the tour begins in Budapest, Hungary, where there is a

      GEEO will be partnering with the Center for Russian, East European, and Eurasian Studies at the University of Texas at Austin. Accompanying the trip will be a representative of UT Austin who will provide additional guidance to teachers during the trip.

      What's Included:
      • Budapest orientation walk
      • Nem Adom Fel Foundation visit in Budapest
      • Visit to the Balla Géza Winery
      • Half-day tour of Sighisoara and surrounding countryside villages
      • 'Dracula's Castle' (Bran) visit
      • Bucharest orientation tour
      • Arbanasi village hike
      • Sofia orientation walk
      • Istanbul city tour with local guide
      • G Adventures Tour Leader throughout and local guides
      • 12 breakfasts, 1 dinner – allow $285-370 USD for meals not included
      • Hotels/pensions (11 nts), guest lodge (1 nt)
      • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities by train, public bus, metro
      What's Not Included:
      • International air travel
      • Incidentals
      • Travel health and cancellation insurance
      • Applicable visas
      • Tips or gratuities
      • Airport taxes
      • Beverages
      • Meals not mentioned in itinerary
      • Optional tours and admission tickets
      • Airport transfers

      Itinerary Download PDF

      Day 1: Budapest Arrive in Budapest at any time. Meet your group for a welcome meeting around 6:00 or 7:00 p.m.

      You may arrive in Budapest at any time today. The main international airport is Budapest's Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), and the main train station is Budapest Keleti, about a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Due to the potential for flight delays or cancellations, we recommend that you consider arriving in Europe at least a day in advance. This will also give you time to adjust to the time difference, overcome any jet lag, and avoid any disruption to your trip due to flight delays or cancellations. We can book extra hotel nights for you in Budapest before the trip. With the Danube River dividing old town (Buda) from the newer area (Pest), there is plenty to see and do in the city. Opt to visit Buda Castle, window-shop in Pest, or soak in the city's famous thermal baths. Hotel Check-in and Welcome Meeting Please note that check-in at the hotel is usually around 2:00-3:00 p.m. There are no planned activities until an intro meeting around 6:00 or 7:00 p.m., usually in the hotel lobby. Check for a sign or ask at the reception desk about the exact time and location of the group meeting. Please make every effort to arrive in time for this meeting. If you are delayed and will arrive late, please inform us. Your tour leader will then leave you a message at the front desk informing you of where and when to meet up tomorrow. After the meeting, you might choose to get dinner at a nearby restaurant with your traveling companions and your tour leader to further get to know one another. Joining Instructions Joining Instructions When you arrive at the airport, you can either take a taxi or use public transportation to reach the hotel. Please make sure you travel to the correct Ibis hotel (Ibis Styles Budapest Center located at Rákóczi út 58). A metered taxi will cost approximately €25–30 EUR. You can also take bus NR 200 E to Kőbánya Kispest; from there, take the metro line NR 3 (blue line) to Arany János utca. You can then walk to the hotel. To arrange a private airport transfer, we recommend you book through Viator (double-check your travel dates). Choose from a range of transport options including both private and shared transfer. It is best to use a service that has many reviews and is highly rated. Accommodation: Ibis Styles Budapest Center (or similar) * For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.

      Explore the charming city of Budapest during some free time this morning. Opt to join your group on an early morning walk that ends at Great Market Hall, the city's largest (and oldest) indoor public market. Visit Gellert Hill to learn about the history of Buda and Pest, divided by the Danube River. On a clear day, capture amazing panoramic shots of the river as it snakes through this ancient city. Continue onto Liberty Square, then take a quick peek at the Gellért Thermal Baths to learn about its place in Hungarian culture. Upon arriving at Great Market Hall, sample local specialties that have been enjoyed in this busy market for over 120 years. On your way out of town, stop for a refreshment at Nem Adom Fel Café and Bar, whose proceeds help fund the non-profit Nem Adom Fel Foundation (meaning "I never give up"). The foundation was established in 2005 to empower differently-abled Hungarians, and most of the employees at the cafe are living with a disability. Your visit helps this café to invest in the foundation's efforts, which also include supporting rural Roma communities through much-needed social programs. Continue to Balla Géza Winery, located on the outskirts of Arad, a region known for its wine growing. Since 1999, Balla Géza has been working to bring back the red wines that this region was once famous for. Visit the Minis vineyard and enjoy a wine tasting with the group, and then sit down to a traditional Romanian dinner featuring three different courses. If time allows, explore the grounds before heading to the winery's guesthouse, where you will spend the night. Approximate travel time: 4 hrs by private vehicle Accommodation: Balla Geza Winery (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner

      Breakfast is included at the Balla Géza Winery this morning. After breakfast, drive to the Sighișoara. During your free time there, explore the medieval walled citadel and enjoy the cobblestone streets and medieval architecture. There two great free attractions everyone should see. The Clock Tower, also known as the Council Tower, is considered one of Sighisoara's main sights. It was built in the second half of the 14th century and expanded in the 16th century. After a fire in 1676 when the town's gunpowder deposits located in the Tailors' Tower exploded, Austrian artists rebuilt the roof of the tower in its present baroque style and, in 1894, colorful tiles were added. You should also visit the Church of the Dominican Monastery. Built-in the late Gothic style, it was last repaired in 1929, quite sometime after it was first attested in a document back in 1298. For dinner, we recommend sampling some Romanian cuisine at the Casa Dracula. Once the original home for Vlad the Impaler, who was the model for Count Dracula, it is now a restaurant specializing in the hearty meat and game dishes of the region. Approximate travel time: 4.5 hrs by private vehicle Accommodation: Hotel Sighisoara (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Enjoy a half-day guided tour of Sighisoara and the nearby countryside. Take in the beautiful rolling scenery and visit medieval villages and fortified churches. In the early evening, transfer to the city of Braşov, the best preserved medieval city in Romania. Approximate travel time: 1.5 hrs by private vehicle Accommodation: Central Residence Annapolis Brasov (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Today we will visit Bran Castle, impressively situated on a rock outcrop and dominating the valley. This 14th-century castle is steeped in history and folklore and is an unmissable highlight. Sometimes called "Dracula's Castle," it served as a defensive fortification to protect the border between Transylvania and Wallachia. Rumors abound regarding Dracula's interaction with the castle. You'll have to visit to find out for yourself. You'll have the afternoon free to explore Braşov on your own. We recommend visiting the Scheil District. During the Saxon rule of Braşov, from the 13th to the 17th century, Romanians were forbidden from owning property inside the citadel walls, so they settled in the southwestern Schei district. Walk up Strada Prundului to Piata Unirii and the beautiful St. Nicholas Church, then wander around the small curving streets that gradually slope upwards against the hill. Continue to the southern end of Schei and you'll end up on the gravel road that leads to the impressive Solomon's Rocks (Pietrele Lui Solomon), a popular picnic area for locals during the weekend but relatively quiet at other times. We also recommend a visit to the Black Church (8 RON), which is Romania's leading Gothic church and the biggest church between Vienna and Istanbul. It is a famous landmark in Braşov and has the largest church bell in the country, weighing a hefty 7 tons! Explore its beautiful interior, including stained glass windows and a collection of 119 Turkish carpets, the largest in Europe. Accommodation: Central Residence Annapolis Brasov (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Upon arriving in Bucharest, go on an orientation walk with your tour leader. Take time to explore the Soviet-esque architecture and the beautiful cathedral, or indulge in Bucharest's international cuisine. There is a lot to see and do in Bucharest. See some of our recommendations below under "Optional Activities." Approximate travel time: 4 hrs by train Accommodation: ibis Styles Bucharest City Center (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Explore more of Bucharest this morning and then travel to Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria, one of the oldest cities in the world. Wander the medieval town, visit the museums, or sample your first taste of Bulgarian cuisine. Enjoy this charming town and opt to visit the Tsarevets Fortress just outside the city. Approximate travel time: 3 hrs by private vehicle Accommodation: Hotel Tarnava (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      After a free morning, hike up to the hilltop village of Arbanasi, which was once the residence of choice for the wealthy Roman elite and is still a countryside haven for the high-flyers of modern Bulgaria. The hill offers amazing panoramic of Veliko Tarnovo and the surrounding area. You'll want to visit the 16th-century Church of the Nativity (6 BGN) to see the amazing murals. Accommodation: Hotel Tarnava (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      After arriving in Sofia, enjoy an orientation walk of the capital city of Bulgaria. Opt to visit the Ladies' Market, Sofia’s biggest market for fresh produce, meats, fish, cheeses, and spices. Don't miss the stunning gold-domed Alexander Nevsky church, honoring the Russian liberators whose contribution saw the end of Ottoman rule in Bulgaria. Sample modern takes on Bulgarian and international food, with some great trendy dining opportunities. Approximate travel time: 3-4 hrs by local bus Accommodation: Hotel Budapest Sofia (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Travel to Bulgaria's second-largest city, Plovdiv, dating as far back as 4000 BC. Wander the atmospheric streets of the hilly old town and admire the colorful buildings. Opt to visit the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis, nearly 2,000 years old, and tread in the steps of Roman legionnaires. Or visit the Ethnographic Museum, which has an impressive collection of traditional Bulgarian costumes. In the evening, opt to relax over coffee and a Bulgarian baklava, a specialty of the area. Approximate travel time: 2 hrs by train Accommodation: Hotel Puldin COOP (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Enjoy some free time this morning in Plovdiv before departing Bulgaria on a long bus ride to İstanbul. Approximate travel time: 7 hrs by local bus Accommodation: Hotel Centrum Istanbul (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Begin the day in İstanbul with a 3–4 hour walking tour of the old city, including a visit to the historic Hippodrome, the magnificent Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque. The Hagia Sophia is one of the great churches of the Byzantine Empire; it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest. Be awed by the Blue Mosque's symmetry and internal tile work, and take the chance to learn more about Islamic ceremonies, as it is a working mosque. We highly recommend that you go inside these sights, which may require extending your stay in İstanbul by a day or two after the tour ends. İstanbul is a safe, tourist-friendly city. In the evening, there are plenty of cool little bars and restaurants to celebrate the end of an amazing journey over a raki or two. Accommodation: Hotel Centrum Istanbul (or similar) * For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher. Meals included: Breakfast

      There are no planned activities today, so you may depart İstanbul at any time. The main international airport is Istanbul Airport (IST), but many airlines also use Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). If you wish to extend your stay in İstanbul, consider booking post-tour accommodation with us. Please note that check-out time from the hotel is usually mid-morning, but luggage storage services are available at the reception desk. Want more adventure? Book two or more GEEO programs in the same school year and receive a discount! GEEO will give you 10% off the lesser-value program(s) (up to three programs per year). If you would like to extend your time abroad but don't see another GEEO program that interests you, let us know. We can help you find a trip from our partner tour's much larger catalog. Their tours are open to the general public and not designed specifically for educators, but we can still offer you and your travel companions a discounted educator price on any of their tours, and you would still receive GEEO's fast and attentive customer service. Meals included: Breakfast

      *Itinerary Disclaimer: While it is our intention to adhere to the routes described on our website, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable, to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The information on our website is a general guide to the tour and region, and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

      Details

      Frequently Asked Questions
      Please read our general FAQs, where you can find essential information that applies to all of our programs.
      Resources to Learn & Teach about Eastern Europe
      Visit our recommended reading page to see the list of books GEEO recommends reading before your program (this is not required reading). We also have lesson plans and Pinterest boards that may be useful for you as you learn about your destination and prepare to bring lessons back to your classroom.
      Terms and Conditions
      It is very important to review our Terms and Conditions before signing up for a GEEO program.
      GEEO Program Confirmation Process
      We require a minimum of 6 participants for most GEEO programs. We officially confirm that a program will run once at least 8 people have signed up, which provides a margin for individual cancellations. Nearly all GEEO programs ultimately meet this enrollment quota, and in the rare event that a program does not meet the minimum requirement and GEEO cancels the program, we will work with you to find a suitable alternative or provide a refund of your deposit if you prefer. We encourage you to sign up for any program that interests you, and we will notify the entire group once 6 people are booked and again once 8 people are booked. We always emphasize the importance of exercising caution when making non-refundable travel arrangements, especially given the unpredictable nature of travel. For example, we typically recommend booking flights with flexible change/cancellation policies.
      Cancellation Policy
      All cancellations must be submitted to GEEO in writing by emailing your request for cancellation to travel@geeo.org. If you do not receive a confirmation that we have received your cancellation request, please call us at 1-877-600-0105.
      • If you cancel 60 days or more prior to the start of your program, all your program fee payments will be refunded excluding your $350 deposit, which is kept on file for future use and never expires. (Exception for participants who receive grants from our university partners: To address disruption caused by cancellation from grant recipients, deposits paid by grant recipients are forfeited upon cancellation.)
      • If you cancel between 30 and 59 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive a 50% refund and your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
      • If you cancel within 30 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive no refund, but your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
      Trip Notes & Expectations
      Before you decide to travel to with GEEO, it is important that you read all of the information about the program contained on this page. Our programs are quite adventurous, and we find that clients who read the trip details in full are happier with their experiences.
      1. ACCOMMODATION: It is important to note that accommodations in Eastern Europe tend to be quite different from other areas of the world you may have traveled in. Buildings and rooms are generally old and may not have been renovated or maintained to the highest standard. Most centrally-located hotels in Eastern Europe were not originally built to be hotels, but rather houses for wealthy people that have been converted to hotels. Unusual room sizes and shapes are common, and what were once large rooms may now be separated by rather thin walls. Bathrooms tend to be very small, as they were often added to an existing room, and the showers may have a hand nozzle rather than a conventional shower head. You can expect to stay in small family-run hotels with the exception of the start and finish hotels, which are often larger. Facilities at the smaller hotels may vary—some may not have elevators, air-conditioning, or English-speaking staff—but all are locally-run, with some traditional character, and in excellent central locations.
      2. AIR CONDITIONING: Most accommodation in this part of Europe does not have air conditioning units in rooms. Air conditioning is not routinely installed in European homes and workplaces. However, nearly all hotels will provide a fan for your room on hot nights. If you do not already have one in your room, please ask your tour leader to organize one for you with reception. Our partner tour operator, G Adventures, adjusts hotels based on customer feedback, and they assure as that the rooms will be a comfortable temperature at night. If you have any hot nights where the room was uncomfortable, please let us know as soon as possible.
      3. TRANSPORTATION: We use a mix of transportation that gets our guests from location to location safely. Sometimes you will have full days and nights of transportation as our trips tend to cover a lot of ground. The transportation will often be an adventure in itself.
      4. LUGGAGE: In this part of Europe, it is very rare to find elevators in train stations, hotels, or other public places. We occasionally use public transport on this trip, which means you will need to carry your luggage from platform to platform, in and out of trains and buses, etc., and also possibly up several flights of stairs. You will also need to be able to stow your luggage on trains and buses. You should be able to comfortably walk for 10-30 minutes at a time with your luggage. It is therefore essential that you pack light and bring luggage that is compact and lightweight. You are responsible for carrying your own luggage at all times.
      5. ACTIVITY LEVEL & PACE: This trip includes light walking and hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels. In the cities, you can split apart from the group to go your own pace. Getting on and off trains and walking with luggage requires some physical effort. Many of our programs occur in locations where it is very hot during the day. Please make sure you have thoroughly read the itinerary and can handle the group activities, which sometimes include day hikes with your daypacks. We recommend always carrying snacks with you. Meals can sometimes be far apart.
      6. CUISINE: Vegetarians should be aware that the cuisine of this region is predominantly meat-based. Although you will be able to find and enjoy vegetarian food, please be aware that there will not be the variety or range of choices that you can likely find at home.
      7. ORIENTATION WALKS: The orientation walking tours on this trip are often on cobblestone streets at steep grades and can last several hours in the heat of the summer. Feel free to opt-out of these walking tours if you wish, as they can be quite physically taxing. On the other hand, it may feel like the orientation walks move a bit too slowly for you. Feel free to go off on your own with a map, a travel app, or a guidebook. GEEO wants you to have the experience you desire, and sometimes that means separating yourself from the group so that you can do your own thing.
      8. LOCAL GUIDES: In Europe, all guiding is based around local guides, all of whom are licensed to work only in a particular city. As such, our leaders are able to provide orientation walks that will give you the layout of each town and city, as well as the location of local services such as laundromats and ATMs, but are legally not permitted to share historical details in public places. Your tour leader will be able to help you find a local guided tour in each location if you would like one.
      9. GROUP LEADER: Please make sure you understand the role of your tour leader on this trip. All GEEO/G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of G Adventure's group leaders, which they refer to as Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to our local friends. Our itineraries often have plenty of free time to explore on your own. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting – we think it’s the best of both worlds.
      Single Travelers
      Half of GEEO’s participants travel by themselves, so please don’t worry if you do not have a travel companion for your trip. Our program fee is for one traveler in double-occupancy accommodation, and GEEO can find you a roommate of the same gender if you do not have a travel companion. Most of our programs have a “My Own Room” option, also known as a “Single Supplement,” which is an extra fee that you can pay to have a room to yourself. You will only incur an additional charge if you specifically request a single room. To see the price for the “My Own Room” option, please find your program on our extra services page. If you want to room alone, please email travel@geeo.org to request a single room.
      Emergency Contacts
      Should you need to contact G Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call their local G Adventures office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS G Adventures Berlin office: +441858378000 If you are unable for any reason to contact the local office, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with the 24-hour Sales team, who will happily assist you. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
      Packing List
      Please read this article on GEEO’s blog for our staff’s suggestions on the best gear to pack for your upcoming travels. You must be prepared to carry your own bags and be comfortable carrying them up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels. As a rule, we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags, which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 22-30 lb. Most travelers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size. No XXL bags please! A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person plus a daypack per person. Suggested Checklist
      • Raincoat and/or umbrella
      • Personal clothing for hot weather – we recommend packing 7-8 days of outfits so you only have to do laundry once
      • Sturdy walking shoes
      • Sport sandals or flip-flops
      • Bathing suit and small, quick-dry towel
      • Daypack
      • Sunblock
      • Sunglasses
      • Sun hat
      • Water bottle
      • Watch or alarm clock (or use your phone)
      • Toiletries – important: some hotels do not give you soap and shampoo
      • Camera (or use your phone)
      • First-aid kit, including: lip salve, aspirin, bandaids, anti-histamine, Dramamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, electrolyte powder, insect repellent, extra prescription drugs you may be taking
      Optional Checklist
      • Travel pillow
      • Money belt
      • Phone/tablet for internet – most hotels have WiFi
      • Chargers for electronics as well as converters/adapters, if needed
      • AirTags or Tile trackers
      • Packing cubes
      • Earplugs
      • Snacks – packing a few granola bars is a good idea; you can also buy snacks when you get there, so don’t go crazy here
      • Ziplock bags
      • Reading/writing material
      • Hand sanitizer/baby wipes
      • Light fleece top
      Document Checklist
      • Passport (with photocopies)
      • Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
      • Travel insurance ID card
      • Flight itinerary/boarding pass(es)
      • USD/EUR cash
      • Credit/debit card
      • G Adventures vouchers
      • GEEO Classroom action plans for your group – this is sent a few days before departure
      Laundry
      Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. You can also use a local laundromat, if necessary.
      Passports and Visas
      All GEEO programs require that the participant have a valid passport. Please see our general FAQ for information on obtaining a passport. As with all of our trips, we try to provide the most accurate information we can, but governments sometimes change visa rules. It is your responsibility to double check the information we provide below by searching here. U.S. citizens do not need a visa to travel to any of the countries we visit during this program. Non-American participants should check with their government and local embassies to find out if they need visas.
      Money Exchange
      The local currencies on this trip are the Hungarian forint (HUF), Romanian leu (RON), Bulgarian lev (BGN), and Turkish lira (TRY). As currency exchange rates fluctuate, we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com. We recommend that you obtain cash from ATMs while traveling; they will dispense the local currency. We do, however, recommend that you bring at least $200 USD in cash for emergency use or in case you have trouble with the ATMs. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops, but you may be charged an international transaction fee; ask your financial institution about their international fees. Please note that if you are carrying U.S. dollars, the bills should be in good condition (i.e., not torn, wrinkled, or marked on in any way) and dated recently.
      Tipping
      It is customary to leave a small tip for service providers, such as waiters, if you are pleased with the service. Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of this program and an expression of satisfaction with the people who assist you on your trip. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There will be opportunities during the trip to tip your local guides or drivers. You may do this individually, or your tour leader may offer to collect the money and give a tip on behalf of the group. Ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and expectations. Also, at the end of your program, if you felt your G Adventures tour leader did an outstanding job, a tip would be appreciated. Tipping amounts are entirely your personal preference, but as a guideline:
      • Service providers/Waiters: €1-2 EUR for snacks or 10% of a meal bill
      • Local guides and drivers: €3-5 EUR per person per day
      • Tour Guide (CEO): €30-40 EUR per person per week
      Vaccinations
      GEEO cannot provide any medical advice, so it is very important to consult your doctor or a travel clinic about which vaccinations you will need for your trip. We recommend contacting Passport Health, which has travel clinics located throughout the United States. You can also check the CDC's recommended vaccinations for your destination. Please take this seriously!
      Flights
      We find the best prices for flights are often available around 90-120 days before departure, but of course this varies greatly from route to route and year to year. You should wait until this trip is confirmed before you book non-refundable flights. GEEO and G Adventures bear no responsibility for any flights purchased before the trip is confirmed. This program begins in Budapest and ends in Istanbul. Please double-check our itinerary for the date by which you must arrive in Budapest, which usually means departing the U.S. one days prior. You may want to arrive in Europe one or more days early in case you have flight disruptions. You can arrive at any time you choose, but try to make it in time for our 6:00 p.m. Welcome Meeting on Day 1. You can depart from Istanbul at any time on the final day of the trip, or stay later to see more of the city.
      Plugs and Converters
      There are two components to provide external power to your device: adapters and transformers (also called electrical converters). The adapter is for your device's plug, adapting the prongs on a standard U.S. two- to three-pronged power cord to fit the local outlets. The transformer/converter changes the local voltage to the voltage used in the U.S. All of the countries visited on this trip have type C outlets for two circular prongs, and the voltage is 220-240V. (Standard U.S. electrical outlets are 120V.) Most new devices, including phones and laptops, are made to work with the different voltage rates, but some devices, like hair dryers, may only work on the U.S. standard of 120V. Check your device's plug or manual to see what voltage range it requires. Most transformer blocks will have an “Input” line that defines its voltage capacity; for example, “Input: 100-240V” means that it will work with voltages between 100V to 240V. If your device can’t handle the higher voltage, you’ll need to purchase a transformer/converter. You can find world transformers/converters online or at many retail stores in the travel section.
      Weather
      The weather in all of these countries is similar; summer is hot with daily highs regularly in the 80s and 90s F.

      Costs

      Please keep in mind that this trip offers some free time to pursue activities that interest you. Make sure you look over all of the optional activities and note these additional costs when deciding whether you can afford this program. The prices below are rough estimates for budgeting your trip.
      • Tour Company Fee: See our price in the top right corner
      • Optional Activities: $40-100 USD
      • International Airfare from the United States: Roughly $1,000-1,700 USD If you require assistance searching for international flights, we would be happy to help you.
      • Airport Transfers: $50-100.
      • Insurance: $79-200 USD Please note: It is mandatory for all of our travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000 USD. We also strongly recommend purchasing cancellation insurance as an add-on.
      • Tipping: We recommend $50-70 USD for your tour leader and budgeting $25 for local guides on additional activities.
      • Meals Not Listed in the Itinerary: $285-370 USD
      • Laundry, Drinks, Phone Calls, etc.: Make sure you budget for these types of expenses
      • Souvenirs: Variable. At your personal discretion.
      • Vaccines: Variable. Please consult with your primary care provider.
      • Non-Educator Donation: $100 USD (suggested donation) This is only for non-educator guests traveling with an educator on a GEEO trip. Educators and retired educators should not make this donation.

      Optional Activities

      Optional activities are booked and paid for locally in the local currency, other than the Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise, which can be purchased before departure. For the rest of these activities, you do not have to decide in advance which ones you would like to sign up for. The prices listed are based on the latest information we have received from our participants and G Adventures. They are not guaranteed to be accurate.
      BUDAPEST
      Buda Castle: 1,500 HUF Set on Castle Hill overlooking the Danube River and Pest, Buda Castle was once home to the Hungarian kings of Budapest. Admire the gorgeous architecture and visit its two museums; the National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. Permanent collections depict the past 500 yrs of Hungary's art history, including Medieval and Renaissance stonework, Gothic wood sculptures, and Gothic altars. Danube boat tour: €12 EUR Float down the Danube for a better look at the picturesque sites along the river bend. Bike tour: €28 EUR Join a group for a guided city tour by bike. Buzz around the city on two wheels to cover more ground and get your blood pumping. Hungarian State Opera House Tour: 2,900 HUF Constructed in 1873, the Opera House is one of Budapest's most stunning examples of Neo-Renaissance architecture. Take a tour around this stunning building to get a closer look at the ornate marble statues, frescos, and ornate tin work - to name a few highlights. Hungarian Parliament tour: 5,200 HUF Take a guided tour of one of Hungary's crown jewels - the Hungarian Parliament building. Existing as the third largest Parliament building in the world, its Neo Gothic architecture also makes it a contender for one of the most beautiful. Tour the Hungarian Coronation Jewels in the Dome Hall, the Old Upper House Hall of the bicameral Hungarian Parliament, as well as the Lounge. Guided tours are mandatory for entrance and we recommend booking your tour in advance. Thermal bath: 4,200-5,000 HUF Bring two towels, your bathing suit and an aching body and prepare to be healed in the largest medicinal bath in Europe. Built in 1913, you can test the waters of 18 different pools (15 of which are spring fed) amidst stunning neo-Baroque architecture. Play chess on floating chessboards, relax in the whirlpools and explore the wonderful mosaic domes of these historic thermal steam rooms. Hungarian National Museum: 1,600 HUF Discover a vast collection of relics at the Hungarian National Museum, the oldest in the country. Wander through galleries that feature incredible objects from prehistoric to modern times, including those from the Stone Age, Ottoman period and contemporary Hungary.
      SIGHIȘOARA
      Casa Dracula (Vlad Dracul Restaurant): 10-50 RON You will not be digging your canine teeth into any humans at the Casa Dracula. Once the original home for Vlad the Impaler, who was the model for Count Dracula, it is now a restaurant specialising in the hearty meat and game dishes of the region. The History Museum (Muzeul de Istorie): 5 RON Explore the Renaissance furniture, medical instruments, fine arts, and more in this museum located inside the Clock Tower—it's been around since 1899! (The Clock Tower itself is free to visit.)
      BRAȘOV
      Catherine's Gate (Poarta Ecaterinei) Go back in history with a visit to Catherine's Gate, built in 1559. It is the only original gate to have survived from medieval times. Black Church (Biserica Neagră): 8 RON The Black Church is the biggest church between Vienna and Istanbul. It is a famous landmark of the town of Brasov, is Romania's leading Gothic church, and has the largest church bell in the country, weighing a hefty 7 tons! Explore its beautiful interior, including stained glass windows and its collection of 119 Turkish carpets, the largest in Europe.
      BUCHAREST
      Arch of Triumph: Free Enjoy a visit to the Arch of Triumph to marvel at the exterior of this historic monument. The arch was initially built to celebrate Romania's independence so troops could march under it on their return to the city in 1878. The current arch was built in 1936; it replaced the wooden and structures that stood before. National Village Museum Check out examples of Romanian rural architecture at this outdoor museum that is 10 hectares large. The park boasts rural homes built in the styles common throughout Romania, as well as churches, outhouses, and mills—you'll really feel like you're walking through a Romanian village. To give an even more authentic feel, many of the structures are filled with furniture and pieces from the eras they replicate. National History Museum Boasting more than 650,000 items, the museum, inaugurated in 1972, gives visitors a complete impression of Romanian culture. Housed in the former historic monument once known as the Palace of the Post, it is situated in the historic city center of Bucharest. Palace of the Parliament Enjoy a visit to the Palace of the Parliament, which contains both chambers of the Romanian parliament as well as the National Museum of Contemporary Art (MNAC). It is the world's largest civilian building with an administrative function according to the World Records Academy. It is also the most expensive administrative building. Bucharest Bike Tour: 20 RON You can always cover more land on a bike! Get out an explore the city on two wheels. Museum of the Romanian Peasant Visit the Museum of the Romanian Peasant for a interesting look at the rural culture of Romania. The museum displays a collection of costumes, artifacts of Romanian peasant life, and religious icons.
      ARBANASI
      Nativity Church: 6 BGN Visit the 16th-century Church of the Nativity to see the amazing murals.
      SOFIA
      Ladies' Market: Free Enjoy a visit to the eclectic Ladies' Market - Sofia’s biggest market for fresh produce, meats, fish, cheeses and spices. St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: Free to 6 BGN Don't miss the stunning gold-domed Alexander Nevsky church, honoring the Russian liberators whose contribution saw the end of Ottoman rule in Bulgaria. Vitosha Boulevard: Free Enjoy a stroll down Sofia's chic pedestrian area, Vitosha Boulevard.
      PLOVDIV
      Plovdiv Old Town: Free Plovdiv is one of the oldest towns on earth, dating back as far as 4000 BC. Wander the atmospheric streets of the hilly area and view the colorful buildings. Opt to visit cafés or restaurants in this living museum. Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis: 3 BGN Go back nearly 2,000 years and tread in the steps of Roman legionnaires by visiting the Theatre of Ancient Philippopolis. Plovdiv Regional Ethnographic Museum: 5 BGN Visit the Ethnographic Museum, which has an impressive collection of traditional Bulgarian costumes.
      ISTANBUL
      Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise: pre-book with us for $90 USD Go even deeper into Istanbul, discovering diverse and lesser-visited districts with your tour leader, and some of the best photography spots in the city! Today we will walk along the ancient Constantinople city walls; see Istanbul's best Roman mosaics and frescoes at the Kariye Mosque (formerly the Chora Church); stroll through the photogenic Fener (Greek) and Balat (Jewish) districts, known for their colorful wooden houses; enjoy lunch together; and cruise the Bosphorus Strait for stunning views of Ottoman palaces and the city skyline. Please note: this is a full day (6+ hours) day excursion. Lunch is included. Your tour leader will collect you from the hotel lobby at 9 a.m. Please bring sunscreen, a water bottle, and modest clothing/coverings for shoulders and upper legs for visiting religious sites. Dolamabahçe Palace: ₺1050 TRY per person Built in the early 1800s, the Dolamabahçe Palace is the largest and the most important palace of the Ottoman Empire, after the Topkapi Palace. Marvel at its grandeur. Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts: ₺390 TRY per person This museum is home to treasures from the Ottoman and Seljuk periods and boasts one of the world's largest collections of Turkish carpets. Great Palace Mosaic Museum: ₺60 TRY per person See the intricate mosaics on display from the Byzantine period, excavated from the site of The Great Palace of Constantinople. Hagia Sophia: €25 EUR per person See the Hagia Sophia, one of the most important and breathtaking icons of ancient Byzantine architecture. The domes and buttresses of the mosque punctuate the skyline of Turkey's capital and stand tall as a symbol of national pride. Non-Muslims must visit outside of prayer times. Topkapi Palace: 1h-2h, ₺1500 TRY per person Take a step back in time with a visit to the Topkapi Palace. Once home to the Ottoman sultans and their harems, it's now a museum hosting a number of collections, ranging from porcelains found in Europe, Asia, and China to Ottoman-era weaponry. Basilica Cistern: ₺600 TRY per person Built in 532 AD, the Basilica Cistern is the largest cistern (underground water storage) of Istanbul. Spot the pillar bases carved in the likeness of Medusa. Istanbul Archaeological Museum: €15 EUR per person Opened in 1891, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. Home to a classical statuary, artifacts, and sarcophagi - including the stunning sarcophagus from the Royal Necropolis of Sidon - this museum presents one of the best opportunities to catch a glimpse into the life of ancient Turks. Galata Tower: ₺ 650 TRY per person Climb up the Galata Tower - one of Istanbul's oldest architectural landmarks - for an amazing panoramic view of the city. To get the full experience, time your visit with the call to prayer that happens at sunset.