Best time of year to walk the Sultan's Trail: Budapest - Belgrade

If you're trying to figure out the best time to walk the Sultan’s Trail from Budapest to Belgrade, the best times to start walking are April to mid May, or late August to early October. These months offer the most consistently comfortable weather for long-distance hikers.

Why these months?

• Mild, pleasant temperatures
  Spring and early autumn bring moderate daytime highs — not so hot that the walking becomes exhausting, and not so cool that you’ll be layering up all day. It's the most balanced time for hikers covering long distances.

• Fewer weather extremes
  These months tend to avoid the highest heat of summer as well as the occasional cold snaps that can arrive later in the year or linger from winter. That makes them a safer bet for predictable, comfortable conditions.

• Reduced likelihood of storms
  Heavy rainfall days are less common in these windows. While a rain shower can happen at any time of year, these periods have historically had fewer intense downpours.

• Drier overall
  Beyond just extreme days, these months also stand out for having fewer rainy days in general — giving you a better chance of a mostly dry walk.

The trail crosses a variety of landscapes — riverbanks, farmland, and rolling hills — that can become challenging in wet or overly hot weather. By starting your journey in one of these recommended windows, you’ll likely enjoy clearer skies, steadier temperatures, and a more enjoyable hiking experience overall.

Of course, while these recommendations provide a solid starting point, everyone's preferences and circumstances are unique. For example, if you prefer walking in the cooler morning hours to avoid midday heat, you might prioritize dates with drier conditions. On the other hand, if you are more accustomed to colder climates, you may choose to avoid hotter periods - even if it means encountering more rain. Our search tool allows you to customize your journey to align with your specific needs and preferences, ensuring the best possible experience on the trail.

Furthermore, if your plan differs from walking the standard stages from Budapest to Belgrade, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.