12-Day Adventure Through Rome, Athens, and Budapest Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the Colosseum, an iconic symbol of Imperial Rome. Spend some time exploring this ancient amphitheater where gladiators once fought. Afterward, walk over to the nearby Roman Forum (Foro Romano) for more historical insights.

For lunch, head over to Armando al Pantheon, located near another must-see site—the Pantheon. After enjoying a delicious meal here, visit the Pantheon, one of Rome's best-preserved ancient buildings.

In the evening, take a leisurely walk through Trastevere, one of Rome's most charming neighborhoods. Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere (Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere) before heading to dinner at Osteria da Fortunata, known for its handmade pasta.

Start your day with a visit to Vatican City. Explore St. Peter's Basilica and marvel at Michelangelo's La Pietà inside (La Pietà). Don't miss climbing up St. Peter’s Dome for breathtaking views over Vatican City and beyond.

For lunch, enjoy some pizza at Pizzarium Bonci, famous for its gourmet pizza slices. Afterward, explore more artistic treasures by visiting Raphael’s Rooms (Raphael's Rooms (Stanze di Raffaello)) in the Vatican Museums.

Spend your evening in Campo de' Fiori (Campo de' Fiori), known for its lively atmosphere and bustling market during daytime that transforms into a vibrant nightlife spot after dark. Dine at Da Enzo Al 29, offering classic Roman dishes in an intimate setting.

Begin your day with a peaceful stroll through Villa Borghese gardens followed by visiting Galleria Borghese (Galleria Borghese), home to an impressive collection of sculptures and paintings by renowned artists like Bernini and Caravaggio.

Head over to Testaccio neighborhood for lunch at Felice a Testaccio, renowned for its traditional Roman cuisine including their famous Cacio e Pepe pasta dish. Post-lunch explore Testaccio Market which offers everything from fresh produce stalls selling local delicacies along with food stands serving up delicious street eats!

End your day with dinner at rooftop restaurant called Aroma located within Palazzo Manfredi overlooking Colosseum offering spectacular views while savoring gourmet Italian cuisine making it perfect way conclude another amazing day spent exploring beautiful city filled rich history culture culinary delights!

Start your Athenian adventure with a visit to the Acropolis. This ancient citadel contains the remains of several historically significant buildings, including the Parthenon. It's a must-see for anyone interested in ancient history and architecture.

For lunch, head to GB Roof Garden, which offers stunning views of the city along with delicious Greek cuisine. After lunch, explore the Acropolis Museum (Museo Akropoleos), which houses an extensive collection of artifacts found on the Acropolis.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through Plaka (Plaka), one of Athens' oldest neighborhoods. Enjoy dinner at Dionysos Zonar's, known for its excellent food and views of the Acropolis.

Begin your day with a visit to the Temple of Olympian Zeus (Naós tou Olympíou Diós). This colossal temple is one of the largest ever built in ancient Greece. Afterward, walk over to Syntagma Square (Syntagma Square (Plateia Syntagmatos)) to witness the changing of the guard at the Parliament Building.

For lunch, dine at Kuzina, which offers modern Greek cuisine with a view of the Acropolis. Post-lunch, visit the National Gardens of Athens (Ethnikos Kipos), a peaceful oasis in the heart of Athens.

In the evening, explore Psiri (Psiri), known for its vibrant nightlife and street art. Have dinner at Funky Gourmet, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative dishes.

Take a day trip from Athens to Ancient Corinth (Athens Day-Trip to Ancient Corinth, Hera Temple & Blue Lake). Explore this historic site where St. Paul preached and see landmarks like Apollo's Temple and Acrocorinth fortress.

Enjoy lunch at a local taverna in Corinth before heading back to Athens. Once back in Athens, visit Monastiraki (Monastiraki), known for its flea market and vibrant atmosphere.

For dinner, head to Hytra, offering modern Greek cuisine with stunning views over Athens.

Start your day by visiting Mount Lycabettus (Mt. Lycabettus (Lykavittos)). You can either hike up or take a funicular railway to reach its summit where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views over Athens.

Have lunch at Orizontes, located atop Mount Lycabettus offering spectacular vistas along with delicious food! Afterward head down towards central part city explore National Archaeological Museum (Athens National Archaeological Museum (Ethniko Arxaiologiko Mouseio)) housing vast collection artifacts spanning various periods Greek history!

Conclude your day by visiting Odeon Herodes Atticus Theater located slopes Acropolis hill catch performance if available otherwise simply admire architectural beauty this ancient stone theater built Roman times still used today concerts events during summer months dine nearby restaurant called Varoulko Seaside known fresh seafood dishes served waterfront setting making perfect end another amazing day spent exploring beautiful city filled rich cultural heritage culinary delights!

Start your Budapest adventure with a visit to the Buda Castle (Budai Vár). This historical castle complex offers stunning views of the city and houses several museums, including the Hungarian National Gallery. It's a great way to dive into Hungary's rich history.

For lunch, head to Costes, one of Budapest's Michelin-starred restaurants known for its innovative cuisine. After lunch, explore the Hungarian State Opera House (Magyar Állami Operaház), an architectural masterpiece offering guided tours that provide insights into its history and significance.

In the evening, take a stroll along Andrássy Avenue (Andrássy Avenue (Andrássy Út)), a UNESCO World Heritage site lined with beautiful buildings and shops. End your day with dinner at Onyx, another Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite Hungarian dishes.

Széchenyi Thermal Baths (Széchenyi Gyógyfürdo) is one of the largest medicinal baths in Europe. Spend your morning relaxing in its thermal pools, saunas, and steam rooms. It's a quintessential Budapest experience that shouldn't be missed.

Menza is perfect for lunch, offering traditional Hungarian dishes in a retro setting. Afterward, visit Heroes' Square (Heroes' Square (Hosök Tere)), one of Budapest's most iconic landmarks featuring statues of important national leaders.

Fisherman’s Bastion (Halaszbastya) offers some of the best panoramic views over Budapest, especially at sunset. For dinner, dine at Borkonyha Winekitchen, known for its excellent wine selection and modern Hungarian cuisine.

St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István Bazilika) is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and panoramic views from its dome. Spend your morning exploring this magnificent church dedicated to Hungary's first king.

Kiosk Budapest offers delicious food with great views of the Danube River. After lunch, take a walk across the Chain Bridge (Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lanchid)) to reach Buda Castle Hill (Castle Hill (Várhegy)) where you can explore more historical sites.

Gozsdu Courtyard (Gozsdu Udvar) is perfect for an evening out with its lively atmosphere filled with bars, restaurants, and shops! Dine at Mazel Tov, offering Middle Eastern cuisine in trendy setting making it great place conclude another amazing day spent exploring beautiful city filled rich cultural heritage culinary delights!

Start your final day by visiting Margaret Island (Margaret Island (Margit-Sziget)), a peaceful oasis in middle Danube River featuring beautiful gardens walking trails musical fountain more! It's perfect spot relax unwind before heading back home!

For lunch head over Central Market Hall (Central Market Hall (Nagycsarnok)) bustling market offering wide variety local produce souvenirs along food stalls serving up delicious street eats! Post-lunch explore nearby Váci Street (Váci Street (Váci Utca)) famous shopping street lined boutiques cafes restaurants!

Conclude your trip by dining at Rosenstein Vendéglő known traditional Hungarian dishes served cozy family-run restaurant making perfect way end unforgettable journey through Rome Athens Budapest filled rich history culture culinary delights!