Turn the wasted travel day into the highlight of your trip with stops at the Baroque Old Town of Győr, Esztergom Basilica, Danube Bend and Szentendre on your journey from Bratislava to Budapest.
Recommend this tour for anybody looking to travel from Bratislava to Budapest! Our guide Martina was very kind, patient and professional as we made our way through the streets of the smaller towns of Hungary along the way. Her driving was excellent and she was a pleasure to talk to throughout the day. The van was very spacious and comfortable, no complaints. The route was exactly as described. If the opportunity presents itself, would definitely consider Sidetrip Tours for another tour. Thank you Martina and Sidetrip Tours!
This tour offers hotel pick-up for private bookings. You will be picked up from your hotel, apartment, or any other pick-up point accessible by car. Please check the "Meeting Point" section for open group tour departures.
Stop 1: Győr
We'll stroll through the fairytale-like Baroque Old Town of Győr, discovering its rich religious heritage, charming narrow streets, and stunning views.
Discover the charm of Győr’s Old Town, a picturesque blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture. As we stroll through its cobblestone streets, we’ll admire the city’s beautifully preserved Baroque buildings and the impressive Győr Town Hall, a magnificent landmark dating back to 1900.
Győr is also known for its rich religious heritage, with numerous churches reflecting Hungary’s 1,000-year Christian history. As we explore the winding alleys and hidden courtyards, we’ll uncover stories of the city’s past—its role as a strategic stronghold, its vibrant merchant traditions, and the resilience of its people.
About Győr
Győr is one of Hungary’s most important cities, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. Home to around 130,000 residents, it sits strategically on the banks of the Danube River, a lifeline that has brought trade, wealth, and diverse influences to the region for centuries.
The city experienced a golden age in the 18th century, when it flourished economically, leading to the construction of its elegant Baroque Old Town, which still enchants visitors today. Though Győr suffered significant damage during World War II, extensive renovations since the 1970s have restored its historic charm, making it one of Hungary’s most beautifully preserved cities.
With its grand squares, ornate churches, and a rich past woven into every street, Győr stands as a testament to resilience and renewal—a city where history and modern life harmoniously coexist.
Stop 2: Esztergom Basilica
We'll admire the grand Esztergom Basilica, a masterpiece of 19th-century sacral architecture, while taking in stunning views of the Danube River.
We stop by the majestic Danube River to admire one of the most impressive churches—not just in Hungary, but in all of Europe. The Esztergom Basilica, a 19th-century masterpiece of sacral architecture, stands as a symbol of grandeur and history.
From both banks of the Danube, we take in breathtaking views of this magnificent Classical-style cathedral, its towering dome dominating the skyline.
After soaking in the stunning sights, we stop for lunch in Esztergom (not included), where you can explore local flavors in this historic city.
About Esztergom Basilica
Perched on the banks of the Danube River, the Esztergom Basilica stands in the historic city of Esztergom, once the most important city in medieval Hungary. Before Buda rose to prominence, Esztergom served as the royal seat and the heart of the Hungarian state, playing a crucial role in the nation’s early history.
Throughout the centuries, the city has endured devastating invasions—first by the Mongols in the 13th century, and later by the Ottoman Turks in the 16th and 17th centuries, which left much of old Esztergom in ruins. Yet, time and again, the city has been rebuilt, standing today as a testament to the resilience and determination of its people.
Esztergom remains a symbol of Hungary’s enduring spirit, blending history, faith, and architectural beauty in a truly remarkable setting.
Stop 3: Visegrad Castle
We’ll explore the castle’s ancient walls and admire panoramic views of the Danube Bend, where the river flows through scenic hills and countryside.
Visegrád Castle invites us on a journey through centuries of history, with its medieval ruins, ancient stone walls, and the fascinating Citadel Museum. Perched high above the Danube Bend, the castle offers sweeping panoramic views of the river and the surrounding countryside—some of the most iconic vistas in Hungary.
As we explore the castle grounds, we’ll uncover stories of kings, battles, and royal gatherings, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Carpathian hills. A visit to Visegrád Castle is a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable highlight of the region.
About Visegrad Castle
Perched high above the sweeping curves of the Danube Bend, Visegrád Castle is a striking reminder of Hungary’s medieval heritage. Originally built in the 13th century, the fortress once held a key strategic position, guarding the kingdom and overseeing important trade routes along the river.
Today, visitors can wander through its atmospheric ruins, explore the Citadel Museum, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Danube and the lush hills beyond. With its dramatic setting and rich history, Visegrád Castle offers an unforgettable glimpse into the power and legacy of Hungary’s royal past.
Stop 4: Szentendre
We’ll walk around the picturesque Old Town of Szentendre, exploring its narrow streets, charming squares, and colorful Baroque architecture.
We will explore the charming Old Town of Szentendre, known for its cute little houses, narrow winding streets, and stunning Baroque architecture. As we stroll through the fairytale-like city center, we’ll take in its vibrant atmosphere, colorful facades, and postcard-worthy views.
Szentendre is a beloved destination in Hungary, drawing visitors with its artistic charm, lively cafés, and unique blend of Hungarian and Serbian influences. We’ll soak in the beauty of this enchanting riverside town before continuing our journey.
About Szentendre
Szentendre, a charming town in Hungary with a population of around 25,000, is known for its rich history, artistic atmosphere, and Mediterranean-like charm. The town’s name originates from Saint Andrew, and since the 17th century, it has been shaped by a strong Serbian influence, still evident today in the architecture of the Old Town, with its Orthodox churches and cobblestone streets.
For much of its history, Szentendre remained a small settlement, but in the 20th and 21st centuries, it experienced rapid population growth, evolving into a popular cultural hub. Today, it is a favorite day-trip destination from Budapest, offering picturesque streets, vibrant galleries, and a lively artistic community that continues to celebrate its diverse heritage.
Arrive at Budapest at ~18:00
This tour offers hotel drop-off for private bookings. Please provide your preferred drop-off location when making the booking.
If you book the open group tour then the drop-off is at Erzsebet Square (Erzsébet tér, Budapest), opposite to the Al Habtoor Palace hotel.
Want to personalize this trip?
When booking a private transfer, tell us your itinerary and start time preferences and we'll do everything we can to accomodate your request. Note: open group tours cannot be customized.
We offer the chance to see popular tourist sights, as well as lesser-known places of cultural and historic significance, while you travel between two cities.
Most of our tours are limited to a maximum of 8 people which means you get the personal care and attention of your tour leader during your trip, as well as the chance to get to know your fellow passengers.
Our tour leaders are selected due to their thorough knowledge of local history and culture, as well as their enthusiasm for travel. The stories they share will inspire you!
Our tours run regularly so anyone can afford to join the open group tour making it a great travel option for solo and independent travellers.
Reviews
5.0/5
Overall rating based on 22 reviews
AMAZING TRIP!
All four of us agree that this is definitely the way to travel between big cities across Europe. We had traveled by train on two prior legs of our trip, but this was much nicer and way more comfortable. And the cost...not much more than a train ticket. We were able to see smaller towns and sites that we probably would have never seen had we traveled by bus or train. Alexandra, our guide, was a wonderful driver and very knowledgeable tour guide. Because we were the only four in the van, she asked us questions about our needs and wants and was able to adjust the schedule a tad in order to accommodate us. The next time we visit Europe, we will use Sidetriptours again. We HIGHLY recommend! :)
So Much More Than a Guide and Transfer!
Csenge provided a top-notch and very personal guided tour and transfer experience. We 100% recommend Sidetrips.
We hired Sidetrips for a one-way private transfer and tour from Bratislava to Budapest. We expected a comfortable ride and well-presented information. What Sidetrips delivered was SO MUCH MORE!!!!
At some point along the journey Csenge ceased being merely our hired guide. She transformed into what I can only describe as being much more like a relative or old friend showing us around her hometown. Not only did we receive well-informed historical information and insights, but also personal touches regarding music, education, everyday life and even a few architectural details on some of the non-historic buildings from the soviet era. We reached a level of rapport and friendship where we openly shared personal details about our lives, relationships, experiences and hopes for the future.
We enthusiastically recommend Sidetrips! We visited some really wonderful semi-hidden gems. These are things most ordinary tourists would have missed had they just taken the train. Book with Sidetrips without hesitation. You will NOT be disappointed. If you are lucky, you'll have Csenge assigned as your host.
Sam and Jennie
What a brilliant way to maximise a travel day!
Our guide, Alexandra, collected the 6 of us (3 couples) from our Bratislava hotel & took us door-to-door to our Budapest accommodation.
We had a brilliant day! Alexandra was friendly, informative and she listened to us to understand our needs. She even stopped at a supermarket so we could grab some milk for a cup of tea in the morning!
She really made the day! We saw towns in Hungary we’d never have visited otherwise.
If you get the chance, take a Side Trip tour and you won’t regret it.
One-way transfer from Bratislava to Budapest with 4 sightseeing stops
Knowledgeable local tour leader
Transport in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan or car
Room for a reasonable amount of luggage
Hotel pick-up and drop-off (available only for private tours)
Lunch (a break is scheduled for this)
Gratuities (optional)
Good to know
Confirmation will be provided within 24 hours of booking.
All tours are subject to availability.
Minimum numbers for group size apply. There is a possibility of cancellation even after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative tour or a refund. The Sidetrip team will also be happy to help you arrange alternative transport to your destination city.
Paper free confirmation: just bring your confirmation code or a valid ID.
A moderate amount of walking is involved, please wear flat shoes suitable for walking.
Infant seats are available on request during the booking.
The tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress according to the weather and wear proper shoes for walking (waterproof would be great in winter).
The planned duration of this tour is 9 hours. Our priority is to deliver you safely and on time to your destination. In the event of delays due to traffic, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances, we reserve the right to abbreviate or omit certain stops to ensure your prompt arrival.
All our public group tours are in English. Private tours in different languages are subject to availability.
This tour offers hotel pick-up only for private bookings. For private bookings, you will be picked up from your hotel, apartment, or any other pick-up point accessible by car. Please provide your preferred pick-up location when making the booking.
For open group tours, hotel pick-up is not available. The group tour meeting point is in front of Korzo Cafe & Restaurant at the Radisson Blu Carlton Hotel at Hviezdoslavovo namestie 3. Your guide will meet you at this location.
The planned duration of this tour is 9 hours. For the safety of our passengers and drivers, we are unable to accommodate requests to extend this duration.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off are only available when booking this tour as a private tour for a single group. Open group tours have a fixed meeting point and drop-off location.
Lunch is not included in the tour price but a lunch break is scheduled in Esztergom. Location of the lunch is subject to availability. Kindly let our tour leader know if you have any special dietary needs that we should take in account.
Yes! With a maximum of 8 people in each group, our guide can make sure that the pace of the tour is suitable for everyone. Just note that the tour does include some walking at the stops.
If you cancel more than 48 hours before the tour, your booking is fully refunded*. If you cancel less than 48 hours before the tour or in the case of a no-show, no refund is issued.
*Please note, that the credit card processing fee (1.5-3%, up to 5.9% if you paid by Paypal) charged by the third-party payment provider will not be refunded.
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