An Active Adventure to Berlin, Dresden, Prague, and the Saxon Switzerland

Explore a traditional Berlin alleyway courtyard which harbours a trio of small museums relating to the Jewish experience during WWII.

The courtyard's crumbling and grafittied facades give visitors a feel for Berlin tenement life during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Among the museums is the fascinating Museum Blindenwerkstatt Otto Wendt (free; open 10am-8pm daily). It is located in the former rooms of a broom and brush factory run by one Otto Wendt, whose employees were mainly deaf, blind and Jewish. He managed to protect his workers from the concentration camps by having the factory declared essential to the war effort.

Visit one of the most important legacies of Berlin's pre-Holocaust Jewish community.

The partially reconstructed synagogue was damaged on Kristallnacht, an anti-Jewish Nazi pogrom. It was not completely destroyed thanks to the intervention of the local police chief. Its ultimate destruction was left to Allied bombers and reconstruction didn’t begin until the late 1980s. While large parts remain unreconstructed, it is still possible to visit the interior.

Courtyards of Berlin

With booming 19th-century population growth, nearly every unoccupied space in Berlin was filled by tenement buildings surrounding small courtyards. The Spandauer Vorstadt neighborhood possesses some of Berlin’s most beautiful courtyards, the Hackesche Höfe, as well as other courtyards which better recall the crowded conditions of industrial Berlin. Here you can discover the partially reconstructed New Synagogue, the former site of the Jewish cemetery, and many hidden reminders of a once vibrant community.

Stop for a drink or go shopping within Berlin’s most beautiful courtyards.

These nine courtyards are classic examples of Art Deco. Built in 1905-1907 to house businesses, flats and places of entertainment, Hackesche Höfe was conceived of as an antidote to the dowdy and overcrowded courtyards of working-class Berlin. They are elaborately decorated with blue mosaic tiles and other artistic finishes, but nevertheless preserve a layout that was highly typical of much of pre-war Berlin.

Guided Bike Tour of Berlin

It is said that some cities were made for pedestrians, and others were made for cars. In that case then, Berlin was made for bicycles. Nearly perfectly flat, and filled with beautiful parks and broad avenues, Berlin is crisscrossed by one of the world’s most extensive networks of urban bike paths and lanes. You will cycle past grand architecture, through green parks, and along charming canals, exploring Berlin in a unique and memorable way.

Guided Bike Tour of Berlin

It is said that some cities were made for pedestrians, and others were made for cars. In that case then, Berlin was made for bicycles. Nearly perfectly flat, and filled with beautiful parks and broad avenues, Berlin is crisscrossed by one of the world’s most extensive networks of urban bike paths and lanes. You will cycle past grand architecture, through green parks, and along charming canals, exploring Berlin in a unique and memorable way.

Guided Bike Tour of Berlin

It is said that some cities were made for pedestrians, and others were made for cars. In that case then, Berlin was made for bicycles. Nearly perfectly flat, and filled with beautiful parks and broad avenues, Berlin is crisscrossed by one of the world’s most extensive networks of urban bike paths and lanes. You will cycle past grand architecture, through green parks, and along charming canals, exploring Berlin in a unique and memorable way.

Guided Bike Tour of Berlin

It is said that some cities were made for pedestrians, and others were made for cars. In that case then, Berlin was made for bicycles. Nearly perfectly flat, and filled with beautiful parks and broad avenues, Berlin is crisscrossed by one of the world’s most extensive networks of urban bike paths and lanes. You will cycle past grand architecture, through green parks, and along charming canals, exploring Berlin in a unique and memorable way.

Stare into the eyes of the famed Egyptian queen Nefertiti and see other ancient artwork and archeological artifacts.

The New Museum was opened in 1859 to relieve pressure on the over-crowded Old Museum. The three exhibition floors were decorated by leading Classical painters, with a focal point being a grand staircase winding up all three stories. Exhibits include the archaeological collections of the Egyptian Museum and Papyrus Collection, the Museum of Pre- and Early History, and the Collection of Classical Antiquities. The 3300-year-old bust of Egyptian Queen Nefertiti is the showstopper.

Climb 270 steps to the top of this massive 19th century cathedral for a unique panoramic view of the city.

Berlin Cathedral, nestled on Museum Island, epitomizes German neo-Renaissance grandeur with its striking dome. Built from 1894 to 1905 and restored post-World War II, its lavish interior, stained glass, and notable pipe organ draw visitors. Beyond a place of worship, it houses the former imperial ruling family's, the Hohenzollern, crypt, revealing the dynastic past of Germany.

Museum Island

This island in the River Spree is home to five world-renowned museums, which could easily fill up a whole trip just by themselves. The island is covered in trees and green lawns, while the classically-inspired architecture of the museums can be enjoyed without even stepping inside. Unfortunately, the biggest star of the island, the Pergamon Museum, with its wholly reconstructed ancient buildings, is closed until 2026 for renovations. However, you can still visit a massive 360-panorama depicting the ancient city of Pergamon, and there's still more museums to visit than you could possibly fit in. Also to be found on and around Museum Island are the majestic Berliner Dom cathedral and the huge Berlin Palace.

Relive the past in one of the world's premier museums of archealogy and ancient art. You can step into enormous ancient structures, wholly reconstructed.

The museum is a jaw-dropping feast of classical sculpture and monumental architecture from Greece, Rome, Babylon and the Middle East divided into three parts. Highlights include the radiant-blue Ishtar Gate from Babylon, the Roman Market Gate of Miletus and the Caliph's Palace of Mshatta.

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Berlin Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. It is well connected by public transport, including U-bahn, S-bahn, and bus, making it relatively easy and often fastest to reach by public transport. However, if traveling with bags, you may prefer the convenience of taking a taxi, Uber, or private transfer. Berlin taxis are generally reliable and honest. If you are staying in central Berlin and are picked up one hour prior to departure, you should have time to catch your train.

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Berlin Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. It is well connected by public transport, including U-bahn, S-bahn, and bus, making it relatively easy and often fastest to reach by public transport. However, if traveling with bags, you may prefer the convenience of taking a taxi, Uber, or private transfer. Berlin taxis are generally reliable and honest. If you are staying in central Berlin and are picked up one hour prior to departure, you should have time to catch your train.

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Berlin Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. It is well connected by public transport, including U-bahn, S-bahn, and bus, making it relatively easy and often fastest to reach by public transport. However, if traveling with bags, you may prefer the convenience of taking a taxi, Uber, or private transfer. Berlin taxis are generally reliable and honest. If you are staying in central Berlin and are picked up one hour prior to departure, you should have time to catch your train.

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Berlin Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. It is well connected by public transport, including U-bahn, S-bahn, and bus, making it relatively easy and often fastest to reach by public transport. However, if traveling with bags, you may prefer the convenience of taking a taxi, Uber, or private transfer. Berlin taxis are generally reliable and honest. If you are staying in central Berlin and are picked up one hour prior to departure, you should have time to catch your train.

Cross a bridge which soars across Europe's deepest river canyon.

The famous stone bridge "Bastei" is the must see in Saxon Switzerland. As you seek out the best photo spots, the sandstone towers and the Neurathen castle ruins will create an atmosphere of medieval fantasy. You'll gaze down at the river Elbe canyon and a surreally beautiful landscape.

Journey by boat into an enchanting river gorge.

Located just over the Czech border in the so-called Bohemian Switzerland, the gorge is a sandstone canyon formed over 100 million years ago. Venturing within is like entering a fairy tale. You'll squeeze between narrow gaps in the cliff faces, beneath bizarre rock formations and stone pillars. Eventually the way becomes too wild and narrow even for a small boat, and you can continue exploring on foot.

See the largest stone archway in all of Europe.

The hundred-thousand-year-old sandstone rock formation in the Bohemian Switzerland cannot be crossed but can be visited up close. In fact, one of the best view points of the national park is located directly beneath the arch. As you navigate the trails leading to the archway, you'll enjoy many amazing panoramic views and observe the startling variety of rock formations which rise out of the mountain tops.

Saxon Switzerland

Located about 45 minutes south of Dresden, the Saxon Switzerland National Park has over 1,100 chalk-sandstone peaks amidst a fantastic landscape carved by the Elbe River.  An extensive network of trails covers the park, as well as the adjoining Bohemian Switzerland National Park across the border in the Czech Republic, making it easy to experience one of Central Europe's most scenic natural areas. It is a place with something for everyone, offering hiking, river sports, and many beautiful places to relax and enjoy the scenery. It is also home to Königstein Fortress, one of Saxony's most famous historic sites.

Visit a colossal fortress perched on a clifftop overlooking the River Elbe.

Sitting atop a nearly 1000 feet tall (247m) sandstone table mountain, the Königstein Fortress began as castle in the early 1200’s. In the 1500’s the fortifications were expanded to make it impregnable. But just as no one could break-in, no one could break out, and thus the fortress was eventually transformed into a state prison, which held politically important prisoners until the early 1900s. You’ll have two ways of reaching the fortress. The easy way; taking the “Fortress Express” bus to the top, or the old-fashioned way; hiking to the top.

Cross a bridge which soars across Europe's deepest river canyon.

The famous stone bridge "Bastei" is the must see in Saxon Switzerland. As you seek out the best photo spots, the sandstone towers and the Neurathen castle ruins will create an atmosphere of medieval fantasy. You'll gaze down at the river Elbe canyon and a surreally beautiful landscape.

Visit the palatial Albertinum and experience an outstanding collection of 19th and 20th century art.

The palatial Albertinum is a museum housing works by Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Edgar Degas, as well as a Sculpture Collection - the main hall is worth a look without even purchasing a ticket and viewing the artworks on display. The Galerie Neue Meister spans the genres from the Romantics like Caspar David Friedrich to Modernists like Otto Dix, whose triptych, War, is a searing indictment of his time in the trenches during WWI.

Admire priceless treasures and gobsmacking architecture as you wander the corridors of this palace turned museum.

Flanked by statues of muscled warriors reflecting the might of Dresden's rulers, the Residenzschloss (or Royal Palace) is now a large museum complex housing Europe’s largest collection of treasures (the Green Vault) as well as imposing collections of coins, works on paper, weapons, and Ottoman art. Destroyed in WWII, it was not until 1985 that the communist regime finally began reconstruction and returned the famed Grünes Gewölbe (Green Vault) to the palace. It's a regular Ali Baba's cave of priceless silver, gold, diamond, ivory and mother-of-pearl craftsmanship that is one of the most outstanding treasuries on the planet.

Tour one of Europe's most lavish opera houses.

Originally built in 1841, the hall was rebuilt by the original architect after a fire in 1869. Having been given a second chance, he did an even better job. Unfortunately, it had to rebuilt again after WWII, however it is now restored in all its glory, and with more modern stage equipment to boot. It's home to the Saxon State Orchestra, one of the world’s oldest orchestras. It was also the venue of Wagner premieres for Tannhäuser, Rienzi and The Flying Dutchman, making the Semper a household name. You can admire the beauty of its reconstructed interior during an English speaking guided tour, which starts daily at 3pm. As there is only one daily English tour, we recommend purchasing tickets in advance.

Old Town

Picturesquely located on a bend of the Elbe River, Dresden is the capital of the German federal state of Saxony and was long the royal residence for the Kings of Saxony. They transformed their home over the centuries into a splendid architectural jewel. Because of its fascinating baroque and rococo city center, as well as its art collections, Dresden was often called the “Florence on the Elbe”.  But Dresden also became a major industrial center, making it a target in WWII. The entire city center was destroyed in a fire-bombing raid, and over 20,000 inhabitants died in the flames and rubble. After the war, the city’s former beauty was gradually reconstructed and Dresden is now again a leading center of art, culture and classical music. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to admire restored architectural gems, impressive museums, and rich art collections.

Take the elevator to peer into the breathtaking dome of Dresden's most beautiful and famous church, and to look out upon surrounding city.

This outstanding baroque Lutheran church was completely rebuilt after Germany’s reunification from the rubble that had deliberately been left on site as a reminder of the war. Go inside to admire its impressive interior or take an elevator to get an unforgettable view of the cupola, as well as the Old Town and the Elbe River. The church was built both as a symbol of Protestant self-assertion and Dresden's municipal wealth, and was so magnificent that it soon became a fixture on the European grand tour.

Visit the palatial Albertinum and experience an outstanding collection of 19th and 20th century art.

The palatial Albertinum is a museum housing works by Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Edgar Degas, as well as a Sculpture Collection - the main hall is worth a look without even purchasing a ticket and viewing the artworks on display. The Galerie Neue Meister spans the genres from the Romantics like Caspar David Friedrich to Modernists like Otto Dix, whose triptych, War, is a searing indictment of his time in the trenches during WWI.

Cross the river dividing Prague's most historic neighborhoods, and experience one of Europe's most iconic landmarks.

Bridge construction began in 1357 under King Charles IV (hence the name), and it was the only bridge across the Vltava River until 1841. 30 baroque statues of saints line the bridge, and it is filled with street artists and entertainers. Not to be missed.

See a historic wall that has been covered in John Lennon-inspired graffiti since Communist days.

The wall has been covered in graffiti since the 1960s, and during Communism anti-regime sentiment was common. John Lennon's assassination inspired grafitti reflecting his song, Imagine, which earned the wall its current moniker. It is now a favorite gathering place for tourists, and musicians sometimes congregate there as well. Just around the corner is the Maltese Square, which is one of Prague's more quaint and relaxed public spaces, despite being just off the main tourist route.

Royal Route Guided Tour

On this charming guided walk, you will explore the Prague Castle, the largest castle complex in all of Europe. To reach the castle you will trace the Royal Coronation Route and cross the Charles Bridge, whose “speaking stones” reveal the amazing and often cruel history that occurred there. Your tour guide will then take you either through the castle courtyards and into the dramatic St. Vitus Cathedral in the center of the castle complex, or through the upper part of the castle district around the oversized palaces of the old Catholic nobility and the top of the Castle Steps for incomparable views over the red rooftops of the Little Quarter.

Prague Castle is one of the main attractions in Prague and is also the largest castle complex in the world.

The Prague Castle is the largest castle complex in the world with structures dating back to the 9th century. The St Vitus Cathedral and Basilica of St George can be found within the castle walls. The Prague Castle also includes several gardens, palaces, and a monastery. This castle was the seat of power for the Kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman Emperors, and presidents of former Czechoslovakia. Prague Castle is a UNESCO world heritage site and is one of the most visited places in the country.

Discover the synagogue considered by many to be Prague's most beautiful.

Completed in 1868, the Spanish Synagogue is the newest synagogue in Prague's Jewish Quarter, but happens to be built on the site of the former Oldest Synagogue in Prague. It is built in a stunning Spanish Moorish style as a symbol of the flowering of the Jewish culture which occurred under Muslim rule on the Iberian Peninsula.

See the oldest surviving synagogue in Europe and also one of Prague's earliest Gothic buildings.

When built it was Prague’s newest synagogue, but over time became its oldest – hence the “Old-New”. A beautiful ark holds the Torah and legend says its attic is the hiding place of the legendary clay Golem.

Jewish Quarter

Jews have lived in Prague since its beginnings in the 10th century and have endowed it with a rich heritage. The ghetto was created in the 12th century, as Jews were forced to live separately from Christians. Despite persecution, the community prospered, but sadly, only a small minority survived the Nazi occupation. A lasting legacy remains, including synagogues, architecture, and a fascinating cemetery.

Take an unforgettable visit to one of Europe's largest medieval Jewish cemeteries.

As the Jewish Ghetto was quite cramped, there was no room to expand the cemetery. Unable to acquire further land, and not wishing to dishonor ancestors through the demolition of existing graves, Prague's Jews buried their loved ones in multiple levels. Gravestones are packed in tightly and in some areas the burials reach 12 layers!

Guided Bike to Karlštejn

In this tour, you will bicycle alongside a beautiful river and through forested hills to reach one of Europe's most famous and awe-inspiring castles. After picking up your bikes in Prague, you will cycle to a rail station where you will catch a train and take a 40-minute ride through the Czech countryside to the town of Beroun. You will then begin a beautiful journey along the Berounka River, stopping in a pub in a riverside village for lunch. After lunch, you will make your way up into the hills above the castle Karlštejn and then descend to the fairy-tale perfect, Medieval castle below.

Guided Bike to Karlštejn

In this tour, you will bicycle alongside a beautiful river and through forested hills to reach one of Europe's most famous and awe-inspiring castles. After picking up your bikes in Prague, you will cycle to a rail station where you will catch a train and take a 40-minute ride through the Czech countryside to the town of Beroun. You will then begin a beautiful journey along the Berounka River, stopping in a pub in a riverside village for lunch. After lunch, you will make your way up into the hills above the castle Karlštejn and then descend to the fairy-tale perfect, Medieval castle below.

Guided Bike to Karlštejn

In this tour, you will bicycle alongside a beautiful river and through forested hills to reach one of Europe's most famous and awe-inspiring castles. After picking up your bikes in Prague, you will cycle to a rail station where you will catch a train and take a 40-minute ride through the Czech countryside to the town of Beroun. You will then begin a beautiful journey along the Berounka River, stopping in a pub in a riverside village for lunch. After lunch, you will make your way up into the hills above the castle Karlštejn and then descend to the fairy-tale perfect, Medieval castle below.

Guided Bike to Karlštejn

In this tour, you will bicycle alongside a beautiful river and through forested hills to reach one of Europe's most famous and awe-inspiring castles. After picking up your bikes in Prague, you will cycle to a rail station where you will catch a train and take a 40-minute ride through the Czech countryside to the town of Beroun. You will then begin a beautiful journey along the Berounka River, stopping in a pub in a riverside village for lunch. After lunch, you will make your way up into the hills above the castle Karlštejn and then descend to the fairy-tale perfect, Medieval castle below.

Taxi Transfer to Airport

Taxi Transfer to Airport

Taxi Transfer to Airport

Taxi Transfer to Airport