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Day 1
Arrive Prague
Day 1
Arrive Prague
To Be Determined:
Airport Transfer
Mid-Day/Afternoon:
Jewish Quarter
Late Afternoon/Early Evening:
New Town
Early Evening/Evening:
Evening Boat Cruise
Day 2
Prague
Charles Bridge
Highlight of Royal Route Guided TourCross 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.
Maltese Square & Lennon Wall
Highlight of Royal Route Guided TourSee 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.
Prague Castle
Highlight of Royal Route Guided TourPrague 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.
Charles Bridge
Highlight of Royal Route Guided TourCross 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.
Maltese Square & Lennon Wall
Highlight of Royal Route Guided TourSee 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.
Prague Castle
Highlight of Royal Route Guided TourPrague 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.
Charles Bridge
Highlight of Royal Route Guided TourCross 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.
Day 3
Prague
Chapel of the Holy Rood
Highlight of Karlštejn CastleTour a closely-guarded and jewel-encrusted chapel decorated with amazing medieval art.
The most important and impressive part of the castle, the Chapel of the Holy Rood, is open only to special guided tours due to the fact that its walls are literally covered in precious jewels.
Chapel of the Holy Rood
Highlight of Karlštejn CastleTour a closely-guarded and jewel-encrusted chapel decorated with amazing medieval art.
The most important and impressive part of the castle, the Chapel of the Holy Rood, is open only to special guided tours due to the fact that its walls are literally covered in precious jewels.
Chapel of the Holy Rood
Highlight of Karlštejn CastleTour a closely-guarded and jewel-encrusted chapel decorated with amazing medieval art.
The most important and impressive part of the castle, the Chapel of the Holy Rood, is open only to special guided tours due to the fact that its walls are literally covered in precious jewels.
Chapel of the Holy Rood
Highlight of Karlštejn CastleTour a closely-guarded and jewel-encrusted chapel decorated with amazing medieval art.
The most important and impressive part of the castle, the Chapel of the Holy Rood, is open only to special guided tours due to the fact that its walls are literally covered in precious jewels.
Chapel of the Holy Rood
Highlight of Karlštejn CastleTour a closely-guarded and jewel-encrusted chapel decorated with amazing medieval art.
The most important and impressive part of the castle, the Chapel of the Holy Rood, is open only to special guided tours due to the fact that its walls are literally covered in precious jewels.
Day 4
Prague to Vienna
Vyšehrad Cemetery
Highlight of Vyšehrad FortressWander in a graveyard where many prominent Czechs are buried, such as famed composers Dvořák & Smětana.
The cemetery is filled with many tombs which are works of art in themselves, including several arcades with beautiful art-nouveau frescoes. The monumental Slavin tomb is a sort of pantheon of the Czech people, with over 55 prominent persons buried within it. Dvořák and Smětana have their own more modest graves.
Fortress Walls Viewpoint
Highlight of Vyšehrad FortressEnjoy stunning city views from atop the fortress walls.
Prague Castle and most of the city can be seen from above the cavernous Gorlice Hall. A walk along the fortress walls is a delightful experience, as you will enjoy numerous excellent vantage points on all sides of the fortress, enjoying Prague from a different perspective without all the crowds.
Brick Gate and Casemates
Highlight of Vyšehrad FortressVenture within the fortress's massive 17th-century walls and gates.
A tour through the Brick Gate on the fortress's north side will take you through the narrow underground passageways and casemates of the fortress. You will see a historical exhibit on Vyšehrad as well as the underground Gorlice Hall, where the original statues from the Charles Bridge are stored for safe-keeping (many of the statues on the bridge are copies).
Vyšehrad Cemetery
Highlight of Vyšehrad FortressWander in a graveyard where many prominent Czechs are buried, such as famed composers Dvořák & Smětana.
The cemetery is filled with many tombs which are works of art in themselves, including several arcades with beautiful art-nouveau frescoes. The monumental Slavin tomb is a sort of pantheon of the Czech people, with over 55 prominent persons buried within it. Dvořák and Smětana have their own more modest graves.
Fortress Walls Viewpoint
Highlight of Vyšehrad FortressEnjoy stunning city views from atop the fortress walls.
Prague Castle and most of the city can be seen from above the cavernous Gorlice Hall. A walk along the fortress walls is a delightful experience, as you will enjoy numerous excellent vantage points on all sides of the fortress, enjoying Prague from a different perspective without all the crowds.
Brick Gate and Casemates
Highlight of Vyšehrad FortressVenture within the fortress's massive 17th-century walls and gates.
A tour through the Brick Gate on the fortress's north side will take you through the narrow underground passageways and casemates of the fortress. You will see a historical exhibit on Vyšehrad as well as the underground Gorlice Hall, where the original statues from the Charles Bridge are stored for safe-keeping (many of the statues on the bridge are copies).
Vyšehrad Cemetery
Highlight of Vyšehrad FortressWander in a graveyard where many prominent Czechs are buried, such as famed composers Dvořák & Smětana.
The cemetery is filled with many tombs which are works of art in themselves, including several arcades with beautiful art-nouveau frescoes. The monumental Slavin tomb is a sort of pantheon of the Czech people, with over 55 prominent persons buried within it. Dvořák and Smětana have their own more modest graves.
Day 5
Vienna
Day 6
Vienna
Dürnstein
Highlight of Wachau ValleyExplore the twisting narrow lanes of this delightful monastery town.
Named for the castle that overlooks it, Dürnstein is probably the most-visited stop in the Wachau valley. Reached by an ancient tunnel leading from the boat docks, it is well-known for its wine as well as the beautiful blue church tower of its Augustinian monastery.
Dürnstein Castle Ruins
Highlight of Wachau ValleyHike to the dramatic ruins of a medieval castle built in 1100's.
The hike leading to the castle is steep, but the amazing view you are rewarded with makes it all worth while. The fascinating ruins are extensive and can be freely explored. The castle was made famous by its most illustrious prisoner, King Richard the Lionhearted of England, who was held there for ransom.
Melk Abbey
Highlight of Wachau ValleyTour a huge and splendid Baroque monastery.
Founded in 1089 when the Austrian duke gave one of his castles to Benedictine monks, Melk Abbey is now both a place of pilgrimage and a major tourist attraction. Visitors come for the museum of religious artifacts, the jaw-dropping library, and the sublime church. The town square below the abbey is also a great place for a meal or wine.
Spitz
Highlight of Wachau ValleyStop to taste the wine in a postcard-pretty town surrounded by vineyards.
Spitz is a favorite stop due to its bucolic atmosphere and abundance of wine taverns and restaurants. It is also home to the Tausendeimerberg or "House of a Thousand Buckets" (so named for the abundance of wine fields) and the castle ruins of Hinterhaus, which make for a nice (if steep) hike from the village.
Dürnstein
Highlight of Wachau ValleyExplore the twisting narrow lanes of this delightful monastery town.
Named for the castle that overlooks it, Dürnstein is probably the most-visited stop in the Wachau valley. Reached by an ancient tunnel leading from the boat docks, it is well-known for its wine as well as the beautiful blue church tower of its Augustinian monastery.
Dürnstein Castle Ruins
Highlight of Wachau ValleyHike to the dramatic ruins of a medieval castle built in 1100's.
The hike leading to the castle is steep, but the amazing view you are rewarded with makes it all worth while. The fascinating ruins are extensive and can be freely explored. The castle was made famous by its most illustrious prisoner, King Richard the Lionhearted of England, who was held there for ransom.
Melk Abbey
Highlight of Wachau ValleyTour a huge and splendid Baroque monastery.
Founded in 1089 when the Austrian duke gave one of his castles to Benedictine monks, Melk Abbey is now both a place of pilgrimage and a major tourist attraction. Visitors come for the museum of religious artifacts, the jaw-dropping library, and the sublime church. The town square below the abbey is also a great place for a meal or wine.
Spitz
Highlight of Wachau ValleyStop to taste the wine in a postcard-pretty town surrounded by vineyards.
Spitz is a favorite stop due to its bucolic atmosphere and abundance of wine taverns and restaurants. It is also home to the Tausendeimerberg or "House of a Thousand Buckets" (so named for the abundance of wine fields) and the castle ruins of Hinterhaus, which make for a nice (if steep) hike from the village.
Day 7
Vienna to Bratislava
Schönbrunn Zoo
Highlight of Schönbrunn PalaceJoin local families enjoying one of Europe's best zoos.
With an entrance directly connected to the Schönbrunn palace gardens, visiting the zoo can be a great addition to any trip to the palace. Founded as an imperial menagerie in 1752, it is the oldest continually operated zoo in the world, and today is home to many rare species such as giant pandas.
Schönbrunn Gardens
Highlight of Schönbrunn PalaceGet lost in the huge imperial gardens.
The beautiful park is a mix of formal gardens and woodlands, and is dotted with enchanting statues & fountains, including a massive fountain of Neptune. The Gloriette pavilion sits on a rise opposite the palace and commands a wonderful view. Kids will love the labyrinth, racing to find the tower at the center of the maze.
Schönbrunn Zoo
Highlight of Schönbrunn PalaceJoin local families enjoying one of Europe's best zoos.
With an entrance directly connected to the Schönbrunn palace gardens, visiting the zoo can be a great addition to any trip to the palace. Founded as an imperial menagerie in 1752, it is the oldest continually operated zoo in the world, and today is home to many rare species such as giant pandas.
Schönbrunn Gardens
Highlight of Schönbrunn PalaceGet lost in the huge imperial gardens.
The beautiful park is a mix of formal gardens and woodlands, and is dotted with enchanting statues & fountains, including a massive fountain of Neptune. The Gloriette pavilion sits on a rise opposite the palace and commands a wonderful view. Kids will love the labyrinth, racing to find the tower at the center of the maze.
Schönbrunn Zoo
Highlight of Schönbrunn PalaceJoin local families enjoying one of Europe's best zoos.
With an entrance directly connected to the Schönbrunn palace gardens, visiting the zoo can be a great addition to any trip to the palace. Founded as an imperial menagerie in 1752, it is the oldest continually operated zoo in the world, and today is home to many rare species such as giant pandas.
Schönbrunn Gardens
Highlight of Schönbrunn PalaceGet lost in the huge imperial gardens.
The beautiful park is a mix of formal gardens and woodlands, and is dotted with enchanting statues & fountains, including a massive fountain of Neptune. The Gloriette pavilion sits on a rise opposite the palace and commands a wonderful view. Kids will love the labyrinth, racing to find the tower at the center of the maze.
Day 8
Bratislava
St. Martin's Cathedral
Highlight of Highlights Guided TourMarvel at this 800-year-old cathedral; you'll quickly forget about the Communist-era Highway outside.
Walk in the footsteps of kings and queens in St. Martin’s Cathedral the largest and most important church in Bratislava. Hungarian kings and their wives were crowned here between 1563 and 1830. A golden, 300 kg. Hungarian crown sitting atop the 85-meter tower still commemorates these coronations. Inside, transcend the day-to-day with the magnificent altarpieces and stained glass - their beauty resists the thrum of the highway outside. The Communist regime bulldozed the cathedral's medieval environs to build this motorway. Feel free to laugh or shake your head, the juxtaposition of St. Martin and its highway are part of Bratislava's vibrant identity.
Historical Slovak National Theatre
Highlight of Highlights Guided TourAdmire the elegance of a symbol of Slovak national identity since 1920.
Bulit in the 18th century and reconstructed between 1885-1886 to its present appearance, the beauty of this theater might inspire you to song. Its ornate exterior hides a modernized auditorium, intricate frescoes, and sumptuous gold and crimson decorations. As the oldest and most significant theater in Slovakia, it has played a pivotal role in the development of Slovak performing arts, hosting a rich array of opera, ballet, and drama performances.
Bratislava Castle
Highlight of Highlights Guided TourOffering striking views and a bit of history of a young country in an ancient land.
Revel in sights both ancient and new from this cliffside castle above Bratislava. The gleaming fortress is a far cry from its original 9th-century hill fort, and its high, white walls change color with the day, capturing sunlight from morning until evening. Sunsets are particularly romantic for the views across the Danube or admiring the last glints of light across Old Town. One may enjoy the Slovak National Museum housed inside the castle as well; it's a great place to take time and understand the rich and very long history of the Slovakian land.
Main Square
Highlight of Highlights Guided TourTake a break in the historic heart of Bratislava's Main Square, a lively hub for people-watching.
Bratislava's Main Square is the vibrant heart of the city surrounded by noteworthy buildings like the Old Town Hall and medieval burgher houses. This historic square hosts markets, events, and is a perfect spot to stop for refreshments while absorbing the Old-World atmosphere. Among the highlights, the Old Town Hall, with its distinctive tower and blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements, stands as a symbol of Bratislava's diverse architectural heritage.
St. Martin's Cathedral
Highlight of Highlights Guided TourMarvel at this 800-year-old cathedral; you'll quickly forget about the Communist-era Highway outside.
Walk in the footsteps of kings and queens in St. Martin’s Cathedral the largest and most important church in Bratislava. Hungarian kings and their wives were crowned here between 1563 and 1830. A golden, 300 kg. Hungarian crown sitting atop the 85-meter tower still commemorates these coronations. Inside, transcend the day-to-day with the magnificent altarpieces and stained glass - their beauty resists the thrum of the highway outside. The Communist regime bulldozed the cathedral's medieval environs to build this motorway. Feel free to laugh or shake your head, the juxtaposition of St. Martin and its highway are part of Bratislava's vibrant identity.
Historical Slovak National Theatre
Highlight of Highlights Guided TourAdmire the elegance of a symbol of Slovak national identity since 1920.
Bulit in the 18th century and reconstructed between 1885-1886 to its present appearance, the beauty of this theater might inspire you to song. Its ornate exterior hides a modernized auditorium, intricate frescoes, and sumptuous gold and crimson decorations. As the oldest and most significant theater in Slovakia, it has played a pivotal role in the development of Slovak performing arts, hosting a rich array of opera, ballet, and drama performances.
Bratislava Castle
Highlight of Highlights Guided TourOffering striking views and a bit of history of a young country in an ancient land.
Revel in sights both ancient and new from this cliffside castle above Bratislava. The gleaming fortress is a far cry from its original 9th-century hill fort, and its high, white walls change color with the day, capturing sunlight from morning until evening. Sunsets are particularly romantic for the views across the Danube or admiring the last glints of light across Old Town. One may enjoy the Slovak National Museum housed inside the castle as well; it's a great place to take time and understand the rich and very long history of the Slovakian land.
Main Square
Highlight of Highlights Guided TourTake a break in the historic heart of Bratislava's Main Square, a lively hub for people-watching.
Bratislava's Main Square is the vibrant heart of the city surrounded by noteworthy buildings like the Old Town Hall and medieval burgher houses. This historic square hosts markets, events, and is a perfect spot to stop for refreshments while absorbing the Old-World atmosphere. Among the highlights, the Old Town Hall, with its distinctive tower and blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements, stands as a symbol of Bratislava's diverse architectural heritage.
Day 9
Bratislava to Budapest
Day 10
Budapest
Day 11
Budapest
Szimpla Kert
Highlight of Jewish QuarterDiscover Budapest's most unique form of nightlife - pubs located in the ruins of old buildings!
Szimpla Kert was the first pub located in a ruin, and it started a trend that is now a Budapest institution. These pubs have an eclectic vibe and are a great place to mix with the locals as well as other visitors. The concept dates back to the early 2000s when entrepreneurs took over abandoned spaces within dilapidated buildings for underground events. The 7th district, i.e. the Jewish Quarter, is the best place to find them.
Holocaust Memorial Center
Highlight of Jewish QuarterLearn about the Holocaust in a former synagogue which honors Hungarian Jews killed in WWII.
The refurbished 1920s synagogue now serves as a museum and memorial for Hungarian Jewish victims of the Holocaust. It also functions as a documentation center. Note, it is actually not located in the Jewish Quarter, which is in Budapest's 7th District, but the nearby 9th District.
Great Synagogue
Highlight of Jewish QuarterStare in awe at Europe's largest synagogue (and the second largest in the world).
Also known as the Dohány Street Synagogue, it possesses a striking Byzantine Moorish style exterior with an ornate dome, and an opulent interior. Adjacent to it are a memorial to the Holocaust in the form of a weeping willow, and a museum of Jewish culture. Entry is by guided tour only, although wait times can be very long so booking early is recommended.
Szimpla Kert
Highlight of Jewish QuarterDiscover Budapest's most unique form of nightlife - pubs located in the ruins of old buildings!
Szimpla Kert was the first pub located in a ruin, and it started a trend that is now a Budapest institution. These pubs have an eclectic vibe and are a great place to mix with the locals as well as other visitors. The concept dates back to the early 2000s when entrepreneurs took over abandoned spaces within dilapidated buildings for underground events. The 7th district, i.e. the Jewish Quarter, is the best place to find them.
Holocaust Memorial Center
Highlight of Jewish QuarterLearn about the Holocaust in a former synagogue which honors Hungarian Jews killed in WWII.
The refurbished 1920s synagogue now serves as a museum and memorial for Hungarian Jewish victims of the Holocaust. It also functions as a documentation center. Note, it is actually not located in the Jewish Quarter, which is in Budapest's 7th District, but the nearby 9th District.
Great Synagogue
Highlight of Jewish QuarterStare in awe at Europe's largest synagogue (and the second largest in the world).
Also known as the Dohány Street Synagogue, it possesses a striking Byzantine Moorish style exterior with an ornate dome, and an opulent interior. Adjacent to it are a memorial to the Holocaust in the form of a weeping willow, and a museum of Jewish culture. Entry is by guided tour only, although wait times can be very long so booking early is recommended.
Szimpla Kert
Highlight of Jewish QuarterDiscover Budapest's most unique form of nightlife - pubs located in the ruins of old buildings!
Szimpla Kert was the first pub located in a ruin, and it started a trend that is now a Budapest institution. These pubs have an eclectic vibe and are a great place to mix with the locals as well as other visitors. The concept dates back to the early 2000s when entrepreneurs took over abandoned spaces within dilapidated buildings for underground events. The 7th district, i.e. the Jewish Quarter, is the best place to find them.
Day 12
Depart Budapest
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Situated at the heart of Europe, Budapest is the capital of Hungary, appropriately named 'The Pearl of the Danube,' for its fixating and almost haunting beauty. Formerly two separate cities, Buda and Pest were forged into one by time, occupation, and the eight bridges that anchor them together today. From the Romans to the Communists, each occupier left its flavor profile in Budapest, evident in the famous spicy Hungarian stew known as 'goulash.' Budapest is a melting pot of history, culture, and taste, from the magnificent Baroque and neo-Gothic architecture to the Turkish thermal baths. After a long day of sightseeing, treat yourself to a glass of Tokaj, what King Louis XIV of France referred to as the "Wine of Kings, King of Wines". Budapest has a flavor to satisfy any taste.
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Nearly every wall and rooftop in Dresden seems to be finished with a flourish. Defined by its ornamental baroque architecture, a power statement of Saxon royalty, Dresden is made all the more miraculous considering the city was leveled by firebombing in WWII. After the war, the city was reconstructed, brick by painstaking brick. Even under East German-Soviet rule, which usually eschewed frivolous design, buildings like the Semper Opera House were pieced back to their former glory. Restoration of the majestic Zwinger Palace and bell domed Church of Our Lady slowly followed, with the Frauenkirche only fully repaired in 2005. Arguably there is no other city in Europe that cherishes its hard-won architecture as much as Dresden. Although it is a compact city, so many of its buildings will stop you in your tracks that architecture fans will easily lose a whole day in the Old Town area. Especially during the winter months, Dresden sparkles with a joyous, uplifting ambiance. The city is recognized as having the best-ever Christmas market in all of Europe. Between the twinkling lights, the scent of hot wine and gingerbread, and the towering Christmas tree, it’s worth going out of your way to see Dresden at this time of year.
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One of the most authentic, storied German destinations, Nuremberg's picturesque old town, glorious castle, and buzzing Christmas Market makes this city a time-true classic. The ideal gateway to old Bavaria, Nuremberg offers a primer in German history before you embark on the lovely journey through old Bavaria, known as the Romantic Road. Considered the capital of the Holy Roman Empire in the middle ages, Nuremberg would have felt like the center of the world as a procession of kings and emperors passed through its magnificent gates. When the German Renaissance came, Nuremberg was at its heart. Albrecht Dürer, the great German master artist, was born here, and Martin Luther called Nuremberg Germany's 'eyes and ears'. Skip forward a few centuries, and the city took a dark turn, as Nuremberg became a gathering point for the German National Socialists. Slightly outside of town, you can still find the Nazi Party Rallying Grounds, a sobering reminder of the not so distant past. If it all gets too heavy, you can end the day with a glass of rotbier (red beer) and mull it over. Nuremberg is a must-see for anyone who wants to delve into Germany's past.
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The city of Prague is indisputably the gem of Central Europe. Full of history, culture, and classic Czech pubs around every corner, Prague is teeming with nooks and crannies just waiting to be discovered. The narrow cobblestone streets and warm red rooftops give the city a homey feel, while the well-preserved medieval architecture transports you back in time. Walking across the Charles Bridge with the view of the Prague Castle will make you feel like you’re living in a fairytale, and you might as well be. As an up-and-coming destination, Prague is a perfect mix of classic and modern. New trendy cafes and bistros are always popping up, and you can always find a group of lively locals chowing down on goulash and quaffing pivo (the best beer in Europe!) at traditional Czech restaurants across the city. The clash of modernity and tradition, preservation and innovation, gives this city a mysterious air that you won’t soon forget.
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Artistic and musical, historical and elegant, Vienna is the definition of class. The seat of the Habsburg monarchy for over six centuries, it's no wonder this city is still fit for royalty. Baroque buildings and imperial palaces dominate the cityscape, while locals stride gracefully through the streets, likely on their way to a classical music concert or art exhibition. Visitors from all over the world flock to Schonbrunn Palace, historical museums, and local eateries for authentic Viennese schnitzel. Vienna is also home to world-class wining and dining. Famous dishes include Wiener schnitzel, Tafelspitz (prime boiled beef), and apfelstrudel (apple strudel), all of which pair well with a glass of fine Austrian wine. No matter how long you spend in Vienna, you'll leave with a new appreciation for the finer things in life.
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Bratislava is one of the most up-and-coming cities in central Europe. After years in the shadows of the Soviet bloc, and often drowned out by Prague, Bratislava has finally broken out. The Bratislavan region is now one of the richest per capita in the EU. This economic upswing has infused Bratislava with a newfound zeal. Trendy cafes and cool shopping centers are popping up everywhere, and the city’s already happening nightlife scene is only set to get better. Still less crowded than its central European neighbors Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, but just as intriguing, there’s really never been a better time for a visit to Bratislava. Ruled over by the Hungarians, Austrians, and most recently the Soviets, Bratislava is a city of strange contrasts. As soon as you arrive in Bratislava, you’ll see the pastel-hued churches, baroque houses, and the cobbled Old Town Square brush shoulders with modern brutalist buildings, retrofuturistic towers, and the clunky communist built UFO bridge. The city’s oldest building, its castle, is set atop the western edge of the Little Carpathian Hills like a trophy, the city’s hard-won main icon. For the first time in nearly a millennium, Bratislava has now seized control of its own destiny, and it shows.
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Situated at the heart of Europe, Budapest is the capital of Hungary, appropriately named 'The Pearl of the Danube,' for its fixating and almost haunting beauty. Formerly two separate cities, Buda and Pest were forged into one by time, occupation, and the eight bridges that anchor them together today. From the Romans to the Communists, each occupier left its flavor profile in Budapest, evident in the famous spicy Hungarian stew known as 'goulash.' Budapest is a melting pot of history, culture, and taste, from the magnificent Baroque and neo-Gothic architecture to the Turkish thermal baths. After a long day of sightseeing, treat yourself to a glass of Tokaj, what King Louis XIV of France referred to as the "Wine of Kings, King of Wines". Budapest has a flavor to satisfy any taste.
Read More
Nearly every wall and rooftop in Dresden seems to be finished with a flourish. Defined by its ornamental baroque architecture, a power statement of Saxon royalty, Dresden is made all the more miraculous considering the city was leveled by firebombing in WWII. After the war, the city was reconstructed, brick by painstaking brick. Even under East German-Soviet rule, which usually eschewed frivolous design, buildings like the Semper Opera House were pieced back to their former glory. Restoration of the majestic Zwinger Palace and bell domed Church of Our Lady slowly followed, with the Frauenkirche only fully repaired in 2005. Arguably there is no other city in Europe that cherishes its hard-won architecture as much as Dresden. Although it is a compact city, so many of its buildings will stop you in your tracks that architecture fans will easily lose a whole day in the Old Town area. Especially during the winter months, Dresden sparkles with a joyous, uplifting ambiance. The city is recognized as having the best-ever Christmas market in all of Europe. Between the twinkling lights, the scent of hot wine and gingerbread, and the towering Christmas tree, it’s worth going out of your way to see Dresden at this time of year.
Read More
One of the most authentic, storied German destinations, Nuremberg's picturesque old town, glorious castle, and buzzing Christmas Market makes this city a time-true classic. The ideal gateway to old Bavaria, Nuremberg offers a primer in German history before you embark on the lovely journey through old Bavaria, known as the Romantic Road. Considered the capital of the Holy Roman Empire in the middle ages, Nuremberg would have felt like the center of the world as a procession of kings and emperors passed through its magnificent gates. When the German Renaissance came, Nuremberg was at its heart. Albrecht Dürer, the great German master artist, was born here, and Martin Luther called Nuremberg Germany's 'eyes and ears'. Skip forward a few centuries, and the city took a dark turn, as Nuremberg became a gathering point for the German National Socialists. Slightly outside of town, you can still find the Nazi Party Rallying Grounds, a sobering reminder of the not so distant past. If it all gets too heavy, you can end the day with a glass of rotbier (red beer) and mull it over. Nuremberg is a must-see for anyone who wants to delve into Germany's past.
Read More
The city of Prague is indisputably the gem of Central Europe. Full of history, culture, and classic Czech pubs around every corner, Prague is teeming with nooks and crannies just waiting to be discovered. The narrow cobblestone streets and warm red rooftops give the city a homey feel, while the well-preserved medieval architecture transports you back in time. Walking across the Charles Bridge with the view of the Prague Castle will make you feel like you’re living in a fairytale, and you might as well be. As an up-and-coming destination, Prague is a perfect mix of classic and modern. New trendy cafes and bistros are always popping up, and you can always find a group of lively locals chowing down on goulash and quaffing pivo (the best beer in Europe!) at traditional Czech restaurants across the city. The clash of modernity and tradition, preservation and innovation, gives this city a mysterious air that you won’t soon forget.
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Artistic and musical, historical and elegant, Vienna is the definition of class. The seat of the Habsburg monarchy for over six centuries, it's no wonder this city is still fit for royalty. Baroque buildings and imperial palaces dominate the cityscape, while locals stride gracefully through the streets, likely on their way to a classical music concert or art exhibition. Visitors from all over the world flock to Schonbrunn Palace, historical museums, and local eateries for authentic Viennese schnitzel. Vienna is also home to world-class wining and dining. Famous dishes include Wiener schnitzel, Tafelspitz (prime boiled beef), and apfelstrudel (apple strudel), all of which pair well with a glass of fine Austrian wine. No matter how long you spend in Vienna, you'll leave with a new appreciation for the finer things in life.
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Bratislava is one of the most up-and-coming cities in central Europe. After years in the shadows of the Soviet bloc, and often drowned out by Prague, Bratislava has finally broken out. The Bratislavan region is now one of the richest per capita in the EU. This economic upswing has infused Bratislava with a newfound zeal. Trendy cafes and cool shopping centers are popping up everywhere, and the city’s already happening nightlife scene is only set to get better. Still less crowded than its central European neighbors Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, but just as intriguing, there’s really never been a better time for a visit to Bratislava. Ruled over by the Hungarians, Austrians, and most recently the Soviets, Bratislava is a city of strange contrasts. As soon as you arrive in Bratislava, you’ll see the pastel-hued churches, baroque houses, and the cobbled Old Town Square brush shoulders with modern brutalist buildings, retrofuturistic towers, and the clunky communist built UFO bridge. The city’s oldest building, its castle, is set atop the western edge of the Little Carpathian Hills like a trophy, the city’s hard-won main icon. For the first time in nearly a millennium, Bratislava has now seized control of its own destiny, and it shows.
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