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12 Day Tour of Prague, Vienna, Bratislava and BudapestOverview
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<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>A visit to the Old Town transports you to an entirely different era. A labyrinth of twisting cobblestone lanes and alleys surrounds Old Town Square, which has been Prague's municipal center since the Middle Ages. The square is lined by magnificent churches and imposing Renaissance palaces. As you wander through the Old Town, you discover numerous other delights, including several beautiful churches, a plentiful supply of cozy cafes and pubs, and an outdoor market dating back to the Middle Ages.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Make sure to visit one of Europe's most important, historic, and stunning city squares.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>See <span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Prague's most photographed moment when <span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>the late medieval timepiece constructed on the side of the Old Town Hall Tower comes to life at the top of the hour. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Count the spires on the Church of Our Lady Týn before discovering the hidden courtyard behind it. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Discover a large historical complex of buildings and courtyards "hidden in plain sight" within the Old Town. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>The castle of Vyšehrad was the seat of Bohemia's kings from the 11th to the 12th centuries. Due to its strategic position on a hill overlooking the Vltava River and Prague, it became an important army garrison in the 17th century, and it was transformed into a fortress with huge walls, gates, and ramparts. Walking along these ramparts will offer you wonderful views of the city and river. The interior of the fortress is now given over to a pleasant and quiet park which is a favorite of locals.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Venture within the fortress's massive 17th-century walls and gates.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Wander in a graveyard where many prominent Czechs are buried, such as famed composers Dvořák & Smětana.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Enjoy stunning city views from atop the fortress walls.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Despite being nearly 700 years old, the New Town (Nové Město) is the youngest of the original five independent towns that made up Medieval Prague. The heart of New Town is one of the three original central markets around which it was planned - Wenceslas Square. The square, which could also be described as a wide boulevard is busy nearly 24-hours a day and is also the site of a small Christmas Market.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>, <p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Despite being 700 years old, the New Town (Nové Město) is the youngest of the original five independent towns that made up Medieval Prague. The heart of New Town is one of the three original markets around which the town was planned, Wenceslas Square. Not fully given over to tourism like the Old Town, the New Town combines a historic atmosphere with the daily commercial and social life of locals, making it a great place to get a taste of the real Prague.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Experience a mishmash of interesting architecture on Wenceslas Square, Prague's main commercial center.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Tour a breathtaking art nouveau venue and stay for a concert, opera, or ballet.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Stroll down the river to find this curvaceous office block designed by Frank Gehry, and whi<span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>msically nicknamed Fred & Ginger.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Experience nationally-sponsored ballet & opera in a magnificent venue.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Explore an interesting museum collection in a grand building completed in 1891. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Karlštejn, i.e. Charles' Stone Castle, is the most famous castle in the Czech Republic. The fairy-tale perfect castle was founded by King Charles IV in 1348 to guard his royal treasures. It's massive towers and walls are spread out over a series of rocky peaks above the Berounka River and commands striking views of the surrounding hills. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Tour a closely-guarded and jewel-encrusted chapel decorated with amazing medieval art.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>The Little Quarter is a quaint yet lively quarter of Prague tightly nestled on the slope and river bank beneath the Prague Castle. It is filled with the homes of medieval and renaissance nobility who wanted to live as closely as possible to the castle. Picturesque side streets, beautiful churches, and impressive Baroque architecture all abound within the Little Quarter.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>, <p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>The Little Quarter is a quaint yet lively quarter of Prague tightly nestled on the slope and riverbank beneath the Prague Castle. It is filled with the homes of medieval and renaissance nobility who wanted to live as closely as possible to the castle. Picturesque side streets, beautiful churches, and impressive Baroque architecture all abound within the Little Quarter.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Cross the river dividing Prague's most historic neighborhoods, and experience one of Europe's most iconic landmarks. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Stare in wonder at Prague's largest and most beautiful baroque church. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Escape to these tranquil 17th-century gardens located behind the walls of the Senate palace. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>See a historic wall that has been covered in John Lennon-inspired graffiti since Communist days.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>See the Infant Jesus of Prague, <span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>a wax effigy of the baby Jesus credited with many miracles, which attracts visitors from around the world.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Petřin Park is Prague's most prominent park, as it is located on the side of a large hill overlooking the city. The park is filled with cherry orchards, beautiful forests, and lawns, and is crisscrossed by numerous paths as well as the medieval Hunger Wall built by Emperor Charles IV. At the top of the park is an Eiffel Tower-like observation tower which provides an unobstructed view of the city. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>, <p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Petřin Park is Prague's most prominent park, as it is located on the side of a large hill overlooking the city. The park is filled with cherry orchards, beautiful forests, and lawns, and is crisscrossed by numerous paths as well as the medieval Hunger Wall built by Emperor Charles IV. At the top of the park is an Eiffel Tower-like observation tower which provides an unobstructed view of the city.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Ascend the Czech version of the Eiffel Tower for an astounding 360-degree view. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Get delightfully lost in a 19th-century, mirrored labyrinth.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Ride an incline railway to the top of the wooded Petřín Hill to discover forest paths and beautiful city views.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Prague Castle is the most visited destination in Prague, and for good reason. The castle's history stretches back over a 1000 years, and it has served as the seat of government for Bohemian kings, Holy Roman Emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic. The castle sits impressively perched on a hill overlooking the city, providing a breathtaking and romantic view.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Venture into a mesmerizing gothic church which is the resting place of saints, <span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Bohemian kings, and Holy Roman emperors<span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Wander a narrow street of brightly painted and picturesque cottages literally built out from the walls of the castle. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Wander just slightly off-the-beaten-path to discover a hilltop medieval monastery with a stucco-paneled theological hall, a vast library, and a baroque church.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Take an intimate audio tour of an art-filled palace, which is narrated by its owners. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>The magnificent Baroque palace of Schönbrunn is most famously associated with Empress Maria Theresa, who lived here surrounded by 16 little archdukes and duchesses who also happened to be her children. On your tour of the palace, you will see how Maria Theresa and other past imperial residents lived. No visit is complete without a stroll in the vast gardens surrounding the palace. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>, <p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>The magnificent Baroque palace of Schönbrunn is most famously associated with Empress Maria Theresa, who lived here surrounded by 16 little archdukes and duchesses who also happened to be her children. On your tour of the palace, you will see how Maria Theresa and other past imperial residents lived. During the Christmas season, no visit is complete without exploring the wonderful Christmas Market in the palace forecourt.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Join local families enjoying one of Europe's best zoos.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Get lost in the huge imperial gardens. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>When the Viennese say they are going “into the city”, they are talking about the Inner City (Innere Stadt). The Inner City corresponds to Vienna’s original medieval city, which was once surrounded by defensive walls that stood where the Ringstrasse (Ring Street) now runs. A warren of medieval alleyways crowded into the protected space between the walls, creating a dense network of pedestrian streets that remains to this day.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Visit this awe-inspiring cathedral which is one of the most important and renowned Gothic buildings in Central Europe.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Walk the most famous street in Vienna and see stunning monuments and beautiful architecture.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Get to know Mozart in his former apartment, where he spent his happiest years.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Step into this heavenly 18th-century church featuring incredibly ornate baroque art & architecture.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Discover Vienna's rich history of Jewish life. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Discover the very heart of the Habsburg Empire that once covered most of central Europe. Within the vast Hofburg Palace complex, which was once home to Austria’s emperors and their administrators, you will find palaces, museums, a famed riding hall, the Austrian national library, and much more. The State Opera House and other major monuments are also nearby. Majestically stunning, the buildings and squares of Imperial Vienna still evoke awe in the observer even if the Empire they were built for is now long gone.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Visit the famous opera house on a guided tour, or better yet, enjoy a world-class performance.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>See firsthand the treasures collected by Austrian emperors over the last 1,000 years.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>See an equestrian performance from a world-famous riding school dating back to 1572. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Dine in an elegant 19th century cafe.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Tour the palaces and courtyards of the massive Hofburg Palace complex.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Two of Vienna's greatest architectural treasures lie just beyond the Ring Street - the Belvedere Palace and the Karlskirche (St. Charles's Church). Often missed by visitors, these Baroque wonders represent Austria at the peak of its prestige and power and deserve to be on every visitor's list. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Stroll the Belvedere's gardens, and venture inside the palace for a "Kiss". <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Many argue that this baroque church is as beautiful as St. Peter's - see it and decide for yourself.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>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. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Prague Castle is one of the main attractions in Prague and is also the largest castle complex in the world.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Cross the river dividing Prague's most historic neighborhoods, and experience one of Europe's most iconic landmarks. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>See a historic wall that has been covered in John Lennon-inspired graffiti since Communist days.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Nothing better symbolizes the Viennese love of “gemütlichkeit” (roughly translated as coziness) than the wine villages and vineyards which hug the gentle slopes beneath the Vienna woods. They are home to wine taverns known as Heurigen. The most famous of the wine villages is Grinzing, which is easily reached from the city center by tram. Despite its closeness to the city center, a visit to Grinzing seems to transport you to the countryside, as quaint cottages and cozy old farmhouses create a charming village atmosphere.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>One of the most enjoyable places for an evening out in Vienna is the Spittelberg Quarter. Its narrow lanes are filled with pleasant traditional restaurants. The Spittelberg Quarter is also the site of a Christmas Market which is the favorite of the locals.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>, <p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>One of the most enjoyable places for an evening out in Vienna is the Spittelberg quarter. Its narrow lanes are filled with pleasant traditional restaurants. The Spittelberg Quarter’s history stretches back to the 1600’s when the Austrian rulers imported artisans and servants from Hungary, Croatia, and other subject lands to help serve the Emperor’s court. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>The Central Market Hall is a mezzanine shopping arcade first opened in 1897. Today the Central Market teems with activity like small shops and stands offer a remarkable assortment of goods, including fruits and vegetables, meats and cheeses, fish, flowers, and Hungarian specialties. There are also many souvenirs available on the second floor of the market.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Walk one of Budapest's main pedestrian thoroughfares, which is very popular with shoppers and tourists.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Discover why this pedestrian walkway along the Danube River, with it's beautiful views of the river and castle, is a favorite of both locals and visitors alike.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Shop in a huge market hall built in the late 19th century.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>In Central Pest you will discover the beating heart of the city, with grand apartment houses and art nouveau architectural gems. No visit to Budapest is complete without seeing its highlights, including St. Stephen's Basilica, which dramatically rises above the city. During Christmas season, the square in front of the church is home to Budapest's most famous Christmas Market.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>, <p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>In Central Pest you will discover the beating heart of the city, with grand apartment houses and art nouveau architectural gems. No visit to Budapest is complete without seeing its highlights, including St. Stephen's Basilica, which dramatically rises above the city, and the Chain Bridge, which regally spans the Danube.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Enjoy an awe-inspiring visit to this vast <span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>cupola-topped church; the most famous in Budapest. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Stroll across a beautiful landmark 19th-century suspension bridge which is a symbol of Budapest.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Enjoy a leisurely coffee and cake in one of Budapest's <span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>most storied cafes.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Take a peak at this pearl of art nouveau architecture, which now houses a Four Seasons Hotel.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>The historic Renaissance and Baroque architecture of Buda's hilltop Castle District make it feel like a quaint step back in time. Indeed, in the little squares and narrow lanes of the Castle District, you will find the heart of historic Hungary. Numerous points in the Castle District also provide breathtaking views over the Danube and the Pest side of the city.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Visit this lovely, late-gothic church and learn its storied history.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Take in stunning panoramic views from this faux fortress with 7 turreted lookout towers.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Discover a beautiful fountain in this courtyard in the center of the castle complex.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Experience exquisite Hungarian national art in this museum located in the <span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>former Royal Palace.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>During your tour you will take in a gorgeous vista of the city from the Fisherman's Bastion, explore the winding streets of the Castle District, gaze in awe at the striking interior of St. Stephen's Basilica, travel along the city's most elegant avenue and more. Along the way you will experience the city as a local does, stopping to check out intimate courtyards, enjoying a pastry and soaking in the ambiance of Budapest's most elegant cafes.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Budapest was once the site of one of Europe's largest and most vibrant Jewish communities and contains the world's second largest synagogue – the Dohány Street Synagogue. A visit there is an impressive reminder of the wealth and influence the Jewish community in Hungary once possessed. A small but vibrant Jewish population still inhabits the Jewish Quarter today.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Stare in awe at <span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Europe's largest synagogue (and the second largest in the world). <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Discover Budapest's most unique form of nightlife - pubs located in the ruins of old buildings! <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Learn about the Holocaust in a former synagogue which honors Hungarian Jews killed in WWII.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>The Széchenyi Baths are the largest and the most popular of all the city's baths. With eighteen indoor and outdoor pools and impressive neo-Baroque architecture, the baths make for an unforgettable visit. Nearby, you will find the fascinating Vajdahunyad Castle, a delightful zoo, and the monumental Heroes’ Square, which tells a 1,000-year old tale of Hungarian history.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>A dramatic square at the end of Adrássy Avenue, <span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>displaying statues of the leaders of 7 tribes who founded Hungary. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>This fantastical castle with a boating lake<span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span> shows the evolution of Hungarian architecture in its elaborate design.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>One of Europe's most enjoyable zoos with hundreds of animal species and historic architecture throughout the park. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>A one-and-a-half-hour train ride from Vienna brings you to the town of Melk, where you can tour the vast Melk Abbey. From there you can begin a 22-mile cruise through the Wachau Valley, considered the most beautiful stretch of the entire Danube River. You'll pass medieval castle ruins, hills covered in vineyards, and several charming villages, where you can debark to try some wine or take a hike up to a castle. The valley is also a perfect destination for cyclers and winery tours.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Tour a huge and splendid Baroque monastery.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Stop to taste the wine in<span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span> a postcard-pretty town surrounded by vineyards. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Explore the twisting narrow lanes of this delightful monastery town.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Hike to the dramatic ruins of a medieval castle built in 1100's.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>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.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Take an unforgettable visit to one of Europe's largest medieval Jewish cemeteries.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Discover the synagogue considered by many to be Prague's most beautiful.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>See the oldest surviving synagogue in Europe and also one of Prague's earliest Gothic buildings.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>This tour takes you back in history to explore the Vienna that stood within the old city walls. You will learn about the humble beginnings of Vienna before it became the capital of a great empire and one of the most important cities in Europe. You will discover how Vienna's early inhabitants lived and how they left their mark on the city and its beautiful Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>You can enjoy the best view in Budapest from Gellért Hill. Just beneath it you will find two of the city's most famous baths. The Secession-style Gellért baths, with an elegant collonaded main pool and incredible tile-work, and the 500-year-old Rudas Baths, which were built by the Turks when they ruled Hungary. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Go for a swim in one of Budapest's most famous and architecturally significant baths.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Enjoy an otherworldly experience in this 16th-century spa complex with traditional Turkish baths.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Hike up this small mountain in the heart of the city for perfect panoramic views.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>The Hungarian Parliament building is a magnificent sight as it rises above the waters of the Danube, and the interior is also quite jaw-dropping. As a visitor, you may even feel a bit overwhelmed by the sumptuous décor and attention-to-detail. You could be forgiven for expecting a queen to arrive or an aristocratic ball to break out at any moment.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Tour this massive and stunning Gothic Revival–style edifice with a guide.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>This building once housed the Hungarian Supreme Court and the Ethnographic museum. The museum is relocating to City Park and will open in 2022.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Reflect at a waterside sculpture of shoes memorializing the victims of fascism who died at this spot. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>The "Žižkov Republic" that lies just east of the main train station and north of Vinohrady has always enjoyed an identity separate from Prague's Old Town. Once known as Red Žižkov – because it was so working class and such a Communist party stronghold – today it retains something of its old working class ambiance, although it also is partially on its way to gentrification. As a result, it is flourishing and full of students, artists, and musicians enjoying its relatively cheap rents in comparison to nearby Vinohrady.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Reach Prague's highest point by ascending a TV tower with an observatory offering 360-degree views.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Regale yourself with the picturesque Old Town of Bratislava, starting with Hviezdoslav Square, Bratislava`s first public promenade crowned by the majestic building of the Slovak National Theatre. Stroll around the Main Square up to the Primate`s Residence and see priceless tapestries while learning about the mysteries that surround them. Your guide will provide you with entertaining history lessons not only about Bratislava but also the Kingdom of Hungary, Austria-Hungary, and Czechoslovakia.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Offering striking views and a bit of history of a young country in an ancient land.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Take a break in the historic heart of Bratislava's Main Square, a lively hub for people-watching.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Marvel at this 800-year-old cathedral; you'll quickly forget about the Communist-era Highway outside. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Admire the elegance of a symbol of Slovak national identity since 1920.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>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. <span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Rising high with an elegant stroll high above the bustle of Old Town.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Deepen your appreciation for Slovakia at its National History Museum in Bratislava Castle<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>The Kamzik Television Tower is far and away the highest point in and around Bratislava. It's easy to arrive nearby with public transport followed by a very pleasant half hour walk through the surrounding forest park. The reasonably priced Altitude Restaurant halfway up the tower with a revolving floor provides fantastic panoramic views of four countries as you dine.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Escape the crowds with a woodland walk to a view of four countries from Kamzík Tower<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
<p><span class="gre-latexized text" style="display: none;"> </span>Embark on a captivating evening river cruise in Prague on the Vltava River, where the city's historic landmarks come alive under the soft glow of twilight. Glide past Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town while enjoying a glass of bubbly or a gourmet dining experience with fine wines. This enchanting journey offers a unique perspective of Prague's beauty, creating memories against the backdrop of the city's sparkling lights.<span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p> <p><span class="gre-latexized paragraph" style="display: none;"> </span></p>
Click To Make Map Interactive
Arrival
3 nights
Prague
Czech Republic
Train: 4.5h
3 nights
Vienna
Austria
Train: 1.5h
2 nights
Bratislava
Slovakia
Train: 2.5h
3 nights
Budapest
Hungary
Departure
Day 1
Arrive Prague
Day 1
Arrive Prague
To Be Determined
Prague has one main airport, Václav Havel Airport Prague, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience.
Prague has one main airport, Václav Havel Airport Prague, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience.
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!
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.
Despite being 700 years old, the New Town (Nové Město) is the youngest of the original five independent towns that made up Medieval Prague. The heart of New Town is one of the three original markets around which the town was planned, Wenceslas Square. Not fully given over to tourism like the Old Town, the New Town combines a historic atmosphere with the daily commercial and social life of locals, making it a great place to get a taste of the real Prague.
Experience a mishmash of interesting architecture on Wenceslas Square, Prague's main commercial center.
The square, which could also be described as a wide boulevard, is named after the Patron Saint of Bohemia, whose statue can be seen at the top of the square. Many historical events have taken place here, including the demonstrations of the Velvet Revolution in 1989, which resulted in the collapse of the Communist regime. Today the square is lined by department stores, hotels, and office buildings, many of them notable architectural highlights of the 19th, 20th, and 21st century.
Tour a breathtaking art nouveau venue and stay for a concert, opera, or ballet.
The stunning concert hall is open for tours and hosts performances on most evenings. The main hall is painted by famous Czech artists including Alfons Mucha. A beautiful cafe and restaurant are also housed in the building, and you can find one of Prague's most ornate pubs in the cellar (the "American Bar").
Stroll down the river to find this curvaceous office block designed by Frank Gehry, and whi msically nicknamed Fred & Ginger.
There is no tour of the interior, so most visitors just snap a photo and head out. However, there is a restaurant and bar at the top called Ginger&Fred. For a spectacular view of the city check out the terrace on the top floor (only for paying customers).
Experience nationally-sponsored ballet & opera in a magnificent venue.
This concert hall is Prague's most prestigious, and it is not only a symbol of the 19th century Czech national revival but also arguably one of the most beautiful concert venues in Europe. Unfortunately, tours are not regularly offered, but you may attend an opera or ballet if you purchase tickets in advance. The riverfront near the concert hall is one of the most photographed spots in Prague.
Explore an interesting museum collection in a grand building completed in 1891.
The recently renovated and improved National Museum is fronted by the iconic equestrian statue of "good king Wenceslas". Beyond it's dramatic exterior you'll find a grand staircase which is a highlight of any visit. Founded in 1818, the museum played a major role in bringing natural science and history to the common man, and also played an important part in the Czech national revival occurring in the 19th century.
Embark on a captivating evening river cruise in Prague on the Vltava River, where the city's historic landmarks come alive under the soft glow of twilight. Glide past Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town while enjoying a glass of bubbly or a gourmet dining experience with fine wines. This enchanting journey offers a unique perspective of Prague's beauty, creating memories against the backdrop of the city's sparkling lights.
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
Airport Transfer
Prague has one main airport, Václav Havel Airport Prague, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience.
Airport Transfer
OverviewAirport Transfer
Prague has one main airport, Václav Havel Airport Prague, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience.
Airport Transfer
OverviewAirport Transfer
Prague has one main airport, Václav Havel Airport Prague, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience.
Airport Transfer
OverviewAirport Transfer
Prague has one main airport, Václav Havel Airport Prague, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience.
Airport Transfer
OverviewAirport Transfer
Prague has one main airport, Václav Havel Airport Prague, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience.
Airport Transfer
OverviewAirport Transfer
Prague has one main airport, Václav Havel Airport Prague, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience.
Prague has one main airport, Václav Havel Airport Prague, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience.
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!
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.
Despite being 700 years old, the New Town (Nové Město) is the youngest of the original five independent towns that made up Medieval Prague. The heart of New Town is one of the three original markets around which the town was planned, Wenceslas Square. Not fully given over to tourism like the Old Town, the New Town combines a historic atmosphere with the daily commercial and social life of locals, making it a great place to get a taste of the real Prague.
Experience a mishmash of interesting architecture on Wenceslas Square, Prague's main commercial center.
The square, which could also be described as a wide boulevard, is named after the Patron Saint of Bohemia, whose statue can be seen at the top of the square. Many historical events have taken place here, including the demonstrations of the Velvet Revolution in 1989, which resulted in the collapse of the Communist regime. Today the square is lined by department stores, hotels, and office buildings, many of them notable architectural highlights of the 19th, 20th, and 21st century.
Tour a breathtaking art nouveau venue and stay for a concert, opera, or ballet.
The stunning concert hall is open for tours and hosts performances on most evenings. The main hall is painted by famous Czech artists including Alfons Mucha. A beautiful cafe and restaurant are also housed in the building, and you can find one of Prague's most ornate pubs in the cellar (the "American Bar").
Stroll down the river to find this curvaceous office block designed by Frank Gehry, and whi msically nicknamed Fred & Ginger.
There is no tour of the interior, so most visitors just snap a photo and head out. However, there is a restaurant and bar at the top called Ginger&Fred. For a spectacular view of the city check out the terrace on the top floor (only for paying customers).
Experience nationally-sponsored ballet & opera in a magnificent venue.
This concert hall is Prague's most prestigious, and it is not only a symbol of the 19th century Czech national revival but also arguably one of the most beautiful concert venues in Europe. Unfortunately, tours are not regularly offered, but you may attend an opera or ballet if you purchase tickets in advance. The riverfront near the concert hall is one of the most photographed spots in Prague.
Explore an interesting museum collection in a grand building completed in 1891.
The recently renovated and improved National Museum is fronted by the iconic equestrian statue of "good king Wenceslas". Beyond it's dramatic exterior you'll find a grand staircase which is a highlight of any visit. Founded in 1818, the museum played a major role in bringing natural science and history to the common man, and also played an important part in the Czech national revival occurring in the 19th century.
Embark on a captivating evening river cruise in Prague on the Vltava River, where the city's historic landmarks come alive under the soft glow of twilight. Glide past Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town while enjoying a glass of bubbly or a gourmet dining experience with fine wines. This enchanting journey offers a unique perspective of Prague's beauty, creating memories against the backdrop of the city's sparkling lights.
Day 2
Prague
Day 2
Prague
9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
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.
Cross the river dividing Prague's most historic neighborhoods, and experience one of Europe's most iconic landmarks.
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See a historic wall that has been covered in John Lennon-inspired graffiti since Communist days.
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Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights
Prague Castle is one of the main attractions in Prague and is also the largest castle complex in the world.
Show MoreCross the river dividing Prague's most historic neighborhoods, and experience one of Europe's most iconic landmarks.
Show MoreSee a historic wall that has been covered in John Lennon-inspired graffiti since Communist days.
Show MoreBrowse the gallery to see some of the highlights
Prague Castle is one of the main attractions in Prague and is also the largest castle complex in the world.
Show MoreOn 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.
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.
Prague Castle is the most visited destination in Prague, and for good reason. The castle's history stretches back over a 1000 years, and it has served as the seat of government for Bohemian kings, Holy Roman Emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic. The castle sits impressively perched on a hill overlooking the city, providing a breathtaking and romantic view.
Venture into a mesmerizing gothic church which is the resting place of saints, Bohemian kings, and Holy Roman emperors .
Located within the castle walls and acting as a symbol of the Czech nation, St Vitus Cathedral is the country's largest and most prominent church. Although construction on the cathedral began in 1344 it was not completed for another 600 years, although the later construction was faithful to the original medieval design. It even contains stained glass windows from the famed Czech artist Alfons Mucha. Entry to the front nave is free, although the crypts and other parts of the church are paid entry.
Wander a narrow street of brightly painted and picturesque cottages literally built out from the walls of the castle.
The Golden Lane is a street situated within the castle grounds. Originally built in the 16th century to house Rudolf II's castle guards, it takes its name from the goldsmiths that lived there in the 17th century. Throughout history, it's been occupied by castle guards, goldsmiths, and others, including for a short time Franz Kafka. The houses are now filled by shops.
Wander just slightly off-the-beaten-path to discover a hilltop medieval monastery with a stucco-paneled theological hall, a vast library, and a baroque church.
Strahov Monastery was founded in 1143 and in 1420, during the Hussite wars, it was attacked and plundered by the citizens of Prague. Luckily, this was before the monastery's prize attraction was built; a magnificent library with a magnificently painted ceiling. The monastery also contains a beautiful Baroque church, and you can find one of Prague's best viewpoints in the vineyards planted near its south entrance.
Take an intimate audio tour of an art-filled palace, which is narrated by its owners.
The Lobkowicz Palace is the only privately owned building in the Prague Castle complex. The excellent museum tells the fascinating tale of the noble family that once resided within it. An audio guide is narrated by actual family members, who tell the back story behind the beautiful art and artifacts their ancestors collected over the centuries, and describe their flight to America after Nazi and Communist political persecution.
The Little Quarter is a quaint yet lively quarter of Prague tightly nestled on the slope and riverbank beneath the Prague Castle. It is filled with the homes of medieval and renaissance nobility who wanted to live as closely as possible to the castle. Picturesque side streets, beautiful churches, and impressive Baroque architecture all abound within the Little Quarter.
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.
Stare in wonder at Prague's largest and most beautiful baroque church.
Construction on this elegant and incredibly ornate church began in 1745 and took 100 years and 3 generations of architects to complete. You can also climb the tower for a view.
Escape to these tranquil 17th-century gardens located behind the walls of the Senate palace.
Open from April to October, these grand late renaissance gardens feature a massive limestone grotto created by artificial stalactites, ornamental pools, & classically-inspired statues. Most tourists miss this hidden gem, as the gardens are reached through inconspicious passageways in Wallenstein Palace, which houses the Czech Senate, and the nearby the Malostranská Metro station.
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.
See the Infant Jesus of Prague, a wax effigy of the baby Jesus credited with many miracles, which attracts visitors from around the world.
The church was completed in 1613 in the Baroque style and houses the 18.5-inch statue. The church is somewhat plain in comparison to most churches in Prague, but visitors come to see the Infant Jesus of Prague (il Bambino di Praga).
Day 2
Prague
Day 3
Prague
Day 3
Prague
Morning to Afternoon
Karlštejn, i.e. Charles' Stone Castle, is the most famous castle in the Czech Republic. The fairy-tale perfect castle was founded by King Charles IV in 1348 to guard his royal treasures. It's massive towers and walls are spread out over a series of rocky peaks above the Berounka River and commands striking views of the surrounding hills.
Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights
Tour a closely-guarded and jewel-encrusted chapel decorated with amazing medieval art.
Show MoreBrowse the gallery to see some of the highlights
Tour a closely-guarded and jewel-encrusted chapel decorated with amazing medieval art.
Show MoreBrowse the gallery to see some of the highlights
Tour a closely-guarded and jewel-encrusted chapel decorated with amazing medieval art.
Show MoreKarlštejn, i.e. Charles' Stone Castle, is the most famous castle in the Czech Republic. The fairy-tale perfect castle was founded by King Charles IV in 1348 to guard his royal treasures. It's massive towers and walls are spread out over a series of rocky peaks above the Berounka River and commands striking views of the surrounding hills.
Tour 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.
A visit to the Old Town transports you to an entirely different era. A labyrinth of twisting cobblestone lanes and alleys surrounds Old Town Square, which has been Prague's municipal center since the Middle Ages. The square is lined by magnificent churches and imposing Renaissance palaces. As you wander through the Old Town, you discover numerous other delights, including several beautiful churches, a plentiful supply of cozy cafes and pubs, and an outdoor market dating back to the Middle Ages.
Make sure to visit one of Europe's most important, historic, and stunning city squares.
The square is filled with rich history and surrounded by many beautiful old buildings, such as the gothic church of Our Lady before Týn and the baroque church of St. Nicholas. At the center of the square is a large statue of Jan Hus, a church reformer burnt at the stake in 1415, and a lovely and recently-restored column topped by the Virgin Mary. Today the square is filled with street performers, food stalls, and horse-drawn carriages.
See Prague's most photographed moment when the late medieval timepiece constructed on the side of the Old Town Hall Tower comes to life at the top of the hour.
Apostles proceed from the tower’s 1410 astronomical clock hourly, flanked by figures representing vanity, greed, death, and pleasure. You can also take an elevator to the top of the Old Town Hall tower for a great view of the Old Town Square and rooftops. Tours of the town hall and its gothic cellars are also offered.
Count the spires on the Church of Our Lady Týn before discovering the hidden courtyard behind it.
The 14th-century, Gothic church is a stunning structure with asymmetrical towers (note that the one on the right is slightly larger than the one on the left). It is the dominant feature of Old Town square and serves as an extensive gallery of Gothic, Renaissance and Early Baroque works. The church is the final resting place for the great astronomer Tycho Brahe.
Discover a large historical complex of buildings and courtyards "hidden in plain sight" within the Old Town.
Founded as an abbey in the 11th century and later transformed into a Jesuit university, it is the second largest complex of buildings in Prague after the castle and contains four separate churches. Guided tours begin at 10am, and include an awe-inspiring Baroque library hall and the Astronomical Tower, from which you have a beautiful view of the Old Town.
The "Žižkov Republic" that lies just east of the main train station and north of Vinohrady has always enjoyed an identity separate from Prague's Old Town. Once known as Red Žižkov – because it was so working class and such a Communist party stronghold – today it retains something of its old working class ambiance, although it also is partially on its way to gentrification. As a result, it is flourishing and full of students, artists, and musicians enjoying its relatively cheap rents in comparison to nearby Vinohrady.
Reach Prague's highest point by ascending a TV tower with an observatory offering 360-degree views.
Built in the 1980s, the tower stands high above the city's skyline on top of a hill in Žižkov, from which it takes its name. Originally it was less charitably known as "Jakeš's finger" (Jakeš was the Communist leader of the country at the time). In addition to the viewpoints, there is also a restaurant near the top. Today it is perhaps most famous for the gigantic status of babies crawling their way to the top of the tower.
Day 3
Prague
Day 4
Prague to Vienna
Day 4
Prague to Vienna
Morning/Mid-Day
The castle of Vyšehrad was the seat of Bohemia's kings from the 11th to the 12th centuries. Due to its strategic position on a hill overlooking the Vltava River and Prague, it became an important army garrison in the 17th century, and it was transformed into a fortress with huge walls, gates, and ramparts. Walking along these ramparts will offer you wonderful views of the city and river. The interior of the fortress is now given over to a pleasant and quiet park which is a favorite of locals.
Wander in a graveyard where many prominent Czechs are buried, such as famed composers Dvořák & Smětana.
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Enjoy stunning city views from atop the fortress walls.
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Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights
Venture within the fortress's massive 17th-century walls and gates.
Show MoreWander in a graveyard where many prominent Czechs are buried, such as famed composers Dvořák & Smětana.
Show MoreEnjoy stunning city views from atop the fortress walls.
Show MoreBrowse the gallery to see some of the highlights
Venture within the fortress's massive 17th-century walls and gates.
Show MoreThe castle of Vyšehrad was the seat of Bohemia's kings from the 11th to the 12th centuries. Due to its strategic position on a hill overlooking the Vltava River and Prague, it became an important army garrison in the 17th century, and it was transformed into a fortress with huge walls, gates, and ramparts. Walking along these ramparts will offer you wonderful views of the city and river. The interior of the fortress is now given over to a pleasant and quiet park which is a favorite of locals.
Venture 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).
Wander 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.
Enjoy 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.
Petřin Park is Prague's most prominent park, as it is located on the side of a large hill overlooking the city. The park is filled with cherry orchards, beautiful forests, and lawns, and is crisscrossed by numerous paths as well as the medieval Hunger Wall built by Emperor Charles IV. At the top of the park is an Eiffel Tower-like observation tower which provides an unobstructed view of the city.
Ascend the Czech version of the Eiffel Tower for an astounding 360-degree view.
Petřín Observatory Tower is a cast iron observation tower, built in 1891, that resembles the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Although this structure is only 64m tall, because it is built on a hill it is technically higher than the Eiffel Tower. Visitors enjoy a panoramic view of not only the city center, but also the suburbs and countryside surrounding Prague.
Get delightfully lost in a 19th-century, mirrored labyrinth.
This maze of mirrors was created for an 1891 Exhibition, and it was so popular that it is still open today. It is great fun for kids and adults, especially the trick mirrors. There is also a mural showing a battle which took place on the Charles Bridge in 1648.
Ride an incline railway to the top of the wooded Petřín Hill to discover forest paths and beautiful city views.
This inclined railway takes visitors to the top of Petřín Hill, where they can ascend the Observation Tower or take a walk through the beautiful forest park overlooking Prague. Riders can also get off at the middle station of the railway and visit one of several restaurants overlooking the city.
Most trains depart from Prague Main Station (Praha hl.n.) 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. Also consider that the cheapest and sometimes fastest way to reach your hotel may be by public transport. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app. Information on finding your departure platform is provided in the itinerary mobile app.
Your scenic journey to Vienna should take about 4 hours. After departing Prague, you will first pass through the rolling countryside of central Bohemia. You will then enter an enchanting region of deep forests and river valleys, followed by the wine-growing region of southern Moravia, and then approach the border to Austria. The passage over the border is interesting when you consider that it used to be a closely guarded and heavily garrisoned no man’s land during Communism. The countryside is relatively flat by Austrian standards but quite pleasant, with a mix of fields, forests, and small lakes. As you enter Vienna, you will pass over a series of islands, forest, and canals as you cross the Danube River.
Most trains arrive in Vienna's Main Station (Wien Hbf) station, but if coming from the west, you may be able to get off at the west station, Wien Westbahnhof, which may also be closer to your hotel. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. Taxis are available at all rail stations and are generally honest. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.
Day 4
Prague to Vienna
Day 5
Vienna
Day 5
Vienna
9:00 AM
This tour takes you back in history to explore the Vienna that stood within the old city walls. You will learn about the humble beginnings of Vienna before it became the capital of a great empire and one of the most important cities in Europe. You will discover how Vienna's early inhabitants lived and how they left their mark on the city and its beautiful Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.
This tour takes you back in history to explore the Vienna that stood within the old city walls. You will learn about the humble beginnings of Vienna before it became the capital of a great empire and one of the most important cities in Europe. You will discover how Vienna's early inhabitants lived and how they left their mark on the city and its beautiful Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.
Discover the very heart of the Habsburg Empire that once covered most of central Europe. Within the vast Hofburg Palace complex, which was once home to Austria’s emperors and their administrators, you will find palaces, museums, a famed riding hall, the Austrian national library, and much more. The State Opera House and other major monuments are also nearby. Majestically stunning, the buildings and squares of Imperial Vienna still evoke awe in the observer even if the Empire they were built for is now long gone.
Visit the famous opera house on a guided tour, or better yet, enjoy a world-class performance.
Once the most pre-eminent music hall in the entire Austro-Hungarian Empire, it still dwarfs its surroundings. It was mostly destroyed in bombing during WWII, but the lavish and stunning foyer was encased in a protective structure and saved, and the rest was rebuilt. Just across from the State Opera house is the famous Hotel Sacher, home of the Sachertorte.
See firsthand the treasures collected by Austrian emperors over the last 1,000 years.
The Imperial Treasury is today a museum collection of the secular and religious treasures amassed by the Austrian emporers. You'll see crowns, coronation robes, scepters, bejeweled swords, precious gems, religious relics, and much more. Be sure to get an audio guide.
See an equestrian performance from a world-famous riding school dating back to 1572.
Originally founded in order to train horses for the complicated maneuvers necessary in battle, the riding school today is dedicated to the preservation of classical dressage and the training of the renowned white Lipizzaner stallions. It offers regular demonstrations & shows and is located in the interior of a palace.
Dine in an elegant 19th century cafe.
The soaring gothic ceilings and fine cuisine of the Café Central made it the frequent haunt of historic figures such as Freud and Trotsky. Reservations are highly recommended.
Tour the palaces and courtyards of the massive Hofburg Palace complex.
The complex consists of numerous palaces which once housed the imperial family during the winter months, and also held the offices which were used to administer the state. They now hold museums and collections from the imperial past. There are also grand plazas and pleasant gardens, such as the enchanting Burggarten.
When the Viennese say they are going “into the city”, they are talking about the Inner City (Innere Stadt). The Inner City corresponds to Vienna’s original medieval city, which was once surrounded by defensive walls that stood where the Ringstrasse (Ring Street) now runs. A warren of medieval alleyways crowded into the protected space between the walls, creating a dense network of pedestrian streets that remains to this day.
Visit this awe-inspiring cathedral which is one of the most important and renowned Gothic buildings in Central Europe.
The cathedral is Vienna’s most famous landmark and dominates the Inner City. Founded in 1147 A.D. and built over hundreds of years, it has elements of both Romanesque and Gothic architecture. You can also climb the (many) steps of the tower for a view.
Walk the most famous street in Vienna and see stunning monuments and beautiful architecture.
Vienna’s main street since the Middle Ages, this wide pedestrian boulevard abounds in cafes, smart shops, and atmosphere. There are two fountains and a column (built as thanks for the end of the plague), which are beautiful examples of Baroque architecture. Also hidden on the street is the world's most beautiful public restroom.
Get to know Mozart in his former apartment, where he spent his happiest years.
Despite his modern-day association with Salzburg, Mozart's time in Vienna was his most productive and happy. Here you can learn about Mozart and what life was like for him and others in the city at the time. You can listen to musical selections and see original scores and other materials.
Step into this heavenly 18th-century church featuring incredibly ornate baroque art & architecture.
This church from the early 1700's is Vienna’s first domed baroque building. Amazing architectural details are crammed into the small interior, and glass crypts contain the human remains of martyred saints. There are daily organ recitals in the church.
Discover Vienna's rich history of Jewish life.
The museum is located in two separate buildings within the Inner City (one ticket covers both). The branch on the Judenplatz showcases medieval Jewish life, including a virtual tour of life in the 14th century. It is fronted by a monumental Holocaust Memorial. The main branch is located on the street Dorotheergasse.
Nothing better symbolizes the Viennese love of “gemütlichkeit” (roughly translated as coziness) than the wine villages and vineyards which hug the gentle slopes beneath the Vienna woods. They are home to wine taverns known as Heurigen. The most famous of the wine villages is Grinzing, which is easily reached from the city center by tram. Despite its closeness to the city center, a visit to Grinzing seems to transport you to the countryside, as quaint cottages and cozy old farmhouses create a charming village atmosphere.
Day 5
Vienna
Day 6
Vienna
Day 6
Vienna
Early Morning to Early Evening
A one-and-a-half-hour train ride from Vienna brings you to the town of Melk, where you can tour the vast Melk Abbey. From there you can begin a 22-mile cruise through the Wachau Valley, considered the most beautiful stretch of the entire Danube River. You'll pass medieval castle ruins, hills covered in vineyards, and several charming villages, where you can debark to try some wine or take a hike up to a castle. The valley is also a perfect destination for cyclers and winery tours.
Stop to taste the wine in a postcard-pretty town surrounded by vineyards.
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Explore the twisting narrow lanes of this delightful monastery town.
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Hike to the dramatic ruins of a medieval castle built in 1100's.
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Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights
Tour a huge and splendid Baroque monastery.
Show MoreStop to taste the wine in a postcard-pretty town surrounded by vineyards.
Show MoreExplore the twisting narrow lanes of this delightful monastery town.
Show MoreHike to the dramatic ruins of a medieval castle built in 1100's.
Show MoreBrowse the gallery to see some of the highlights
Tour a huge and splendid Baroque monastery.
Show MoreStop to taste the wine in a postcard-pretty town surrounded by vineyards.
Show MoreA one-and-a-half-hour train ride from Vienna brings you to the town of Melk, where you can tour the vast Melk Abbey. From there you can begin a 22-mile cruise through the Wachau Valley, considered the most beautiful stretch of the entire Danube River. You'll pass medieval castle ruins, hills covered in vineyards, and several charming villages, where you can debark to try some wine or take a hike up to a castle. The valley is also a perfect destination for cyclers and winery tours.
Tour 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.
Stop 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.
Explore 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.
Hike 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.
One of the most enjoyable places for an evening out in Vienna is the Spittelberg quarter. Its narrow lanes are filled with pleasant traditional restaurants. The Spittelberg Quarter’s history stretches back to the 1600’s when the Austrian rulers imported artisans and servants from Hungary, Croatia, and other subject lands to help serve the Emperor’s court.
Day 6
Vienna
Day 7
Vienna to Bratislava
Day 7
Vienna to Bratislava
Morning
The magnificent Baroque palace of Schönbrunn is most famously associated with Empress Maria Theresa, who lived here surrounded by 16 little archdukes and duchesses who also happened to be her children. On your tour of the palace, you will see how Maria Theresa and other past imperial residents lived. No visit is complete without a stroll in the vast gardens surrounding the palace.
Join local families enjoying one of Europe's best zoos.
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Get lost in the huge imperial gardens.
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Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights
Join local families enjoying one of Europe's best zoos.
Show MoreGet lost in the huge imperial gardens.
Show MoreBrowse the gallery to see some of the highlights
Join local families enjoying one of Europe's best zoos.
Show MoreThe magnificent Baroque palace of Schönbrunn is most famously associated with Empress Maria Theresa, who lived here surrounded by 16 little archdukes and duchesses who also happened to be her children. On your tour of the palace, you will see how Maria Theresa and other past imperial residents lived. No visit is complete without a stroll in the vast gardens surrounding the palace.
Join 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.
Get 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.
Two of Vienna's greatest architectural treasures lie just beyond the Ring Street - the Belvedere Palace and the Karlskirche (St. Charles's Church). Often missed by visitors, these Baroque wonders represent Austria at the peak of its prestige and power and deserve to be on every visitor's list.
Stroll the Belvedere's gardens, and venture inside the palace for a "Kiss".
Two Baraque palaces are connected by a French-style, three-level garden which features delightful fountains. Originally built as a summer residence of Prince Eugene, it now houses the Belvedere Museum where you will find Gustav Klimt's most famous work - The Kiss.
Many argue that this baroque church is as beautiful as St. Peter's - see it and decide for yourself.
Built between 1716-1737, Emperor Charles VI intended the church to be a thanksgiving for the end of a plague epidemic and dedicated the church to St. Charles Borromeo, who is revered for his care of plague victims. St. Charles was also his namesake, meaning that the church's name evokes the emperor's memory as much as the saint's, which was no accident. Indeed, the two columns in front of the church are meant to represent imperial power.
Your hotel front desk will also be happy to arrange a taxi pick up for you. Vienna taxis are generally reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. Your itinerary will provide more information on ordering a taxi, as well as detailed information on navigating the train station and finding your train, making the whole process simple and stress-free.
Your scenic journey to Bratislava along the Danube River should take about 1 hour - the two cities are very close to together, in fact, the closest of any two capital cities in the world. The passage over the border is interesting when you consider that it used to be a closely guarded and heavily garrisoned no man’s land. During Communism, any Czechoslovak civilian entering this area risked being shot and killed. Even though Communism is now over 20 years past, you will still see a significant difference in wealth, although this difference is rapidly being closed as the Slovak economy has been growing more quickly than Austria’s in recent years. As you exit Vienna, you will pass over a series of islands, forest, and canals while crossing the Danube River.
Upon arrival in Bratislava, you will exit the rail station and proceed to the taxi stand where you will find taxis waiting for arriving passengers. Taxis in Bratislava, especially at the rail station, are sometimes dishonest, so we'll provide detailed arrival information and instructions for taking a taxi and avoiding an overcharge.
Day 7
Vienna to Bratislava
Day 8
Bratislava
Day 8
Bratislava
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Regale yourself with the picturesque Old Town of Bratislava, starting with Hviezdoslav Square, Bratislava`s first public promenade crowned by the majestic building of the Slovak National Theatre. Stroll around the Main Square up to the Primate`s Residence and see priceless tapestries while learning about the mysteries that surround them. Your guide will provide you with entertaining history lessons not only about Bratislava but also the Kingdom of Hungary, Austria-Hungary, and Czechoslovakia.
Take a break in the historic heart of Bratislava's Main Square, a lively hub for people-watching.
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Marvel at this 800-year-old cathedral; you'll quickly forget about the Communist-era Highway outside.
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Admire the elegance of a symbol of Slovak national identity since 1920.
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Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights
Offering striking views and a bit of history of a young country in an ancient land.
Show MoreTake a break in the historic heart of Bratislava's Main Square, a lively hub for people-watching.
Show MoreMarvel at this 800-year-old cathedral; you'll quickly forget about the Communist-era Highway outside.
Show MoreAdmire the elegance of a symbol of Slovak national identity since 1920.
Show MoreBrowse the gallery to see some of the highlights
Offering striking views and a bit of history of a young country in an ancient land.
Show MoreTake a break in the historic heart of Bratislava's Main Square, a lively hub for people-watching.
Show MoreRegale yourself with the picturesque Old Town of Bratislava, starting with Hviezdoslav Square, Bratislava`s first public promenade crowned by the majestic building of the Slovak National Theatre. Stroll around the Main Square up to the Primate`s Residence and see priceless tapestries while learning about the mysteries that surround them. Your guide will provide you with entertaining history lessons not only about Bratislava but also the Kingdom of Hungary, Austria-Hungary, and Czechoslovakia.
Offering 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.
Take 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.
Marvel 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.
Admire 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.
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.
Rising high with an elegant stroll high above the bustle of Old Town.
Prommenade regally in these intricate gardens. Unlike many such parks, these were only completed in 2016, according to Baroque plans from the 18th century. As the trees and botanical features are quite young, it allows us modern travellers to experience a monumental garden in its infancy, just like the nobility of yesteryear. The graceful symmetry and elegance of this garden will delight you as it did them, and strike you with its beauty and peace, seemingly far away from the city's hum.
Deepen your appreciation for Slovakia at its National History Museum in Bratislava Castle
Discover the National History Museum, located within the iconic Bratislava Castle, engages you with it richly-layered past. This museum invites you into the story of the country, from its prehistoric people to the modern day. Exhibits of medieval armor, traditional folk costumes, and other historical artifacts will intrigue you with their tales of Slovakia's cultural and political evolution. Entering the museum also allows you to experience Bratislava Castle's noble interior. Tickets to the museum cost 12 EUR for adults and 6 EUR for students/children (open 10am-6pm every day except Tuesday. Last admission is one hour before closing). This symbol of Slovak national pride is more than worthy of a holiday visit and will leave you with cherished memories of your time in this nation's capital.
The Kamzik Television Tower is far and away the highest point in and around Bratislava. It's easy to arrive nearby with public transport followed by a very pleasant half hour walk through the surrounding forest park. The reasonably priced Altitude Restaurant halfway up the tower with a revolving floor provides fantastic panoramic views of four countries as you dine.
Escape the crowds with a woodland walk to a view of four countries from Kamzík Tower
Do some quintessentially Slovak: Go for a walk in the woods. But end this walk with a visit to the striking Kamzík Television Tower, standing approximately 196 meters tall and one of the tallest structures in Slovakia. As it stands on top of a 446m-high mountain, it offers you views stretching across four countries, the Danube River, the Carpathian mountains, and even the Alps! Marvel over the view with a meal in the tower's convenient resturant (Reservations recommended). Kamzík tower offers a perfect trapse through nature, without leaving the comforts of a major city.
Day 8
Bratislava
Day 9
Bratislava to Budapest
Day 9
Bratislava to Budapest
9:20 AM
Your hotel front desk will be happy to arrange a taxi pick up for you. Your itinerary will provide more information on ordering a taxi, as well as detailed information on navigating the train station and finding your train, making the whole process simple and stress-free.
Your hotel front desk will be happy to arrange a taxi pick up for you. Your itinerary will provide more information on ordering a taxi, as well as detailed information on navigating the train station and finding your train, making the whole process simple and stress-free.
Tickets and seat reservations for this roughly three-hour journey to Budapest are included with the purchase of an itinerary. In most cases, the journey will be aboard one of Central Europe's nicest and most modern trains. You will also receive detailed instructions for the voyage, as well as a translation and explanation of your tickets.
Upon your arrival in Budapest, your driver will meet you on the platform. He will be carrying a sign with your name on it. The driver will drop you off at your hotel. This is a private transfer. The price of the pickup is already included in your itinerary cost so you will not have to pay the driver. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware the car service can fit up to 1 checked item of luggage and 1 personal item per person, such as a purse or small backpack. If you think you will have more baggage, please inform your travel consultant as this may result in an additional fee.
The historic Renaissance and Baroque architecture of Buda's hilltop Castle District make it feel like a quaint step back in time. Indeed, in the little squares and narrow lanes of the Castle District, you will find the heart of historic Hungary. Numerous points in the Castle District also provide breathtaking views over the Danube and the Pest side of the city.
Visit this lovely, late-gothic church and learn its storied history.
This 13th century church is named after King Matthius, who was married here twice. Under Turkish occupation it was converted into a Mosque, then reconverted into a baroque church, and finally was splendidly reinvented in the late 1800's by combining historic elements with neo-Gothic reconstruction. It holds the tomb of Béla III, one of Hungary's tallest medieval kings.
Take in stunning panoramic views from this faux fortress with 7 turreted lookout towers.
This fanciful late-19th century creation replaced the original walls where the Fisherman's guild was responsible for town defense. It offers outstanding views of Pest and the river. More photos are taken here than any other place in Budapest. The upper terrace of the bastion offers the best views, but you must pay for entry.
Discover a beautiful fountain in this courtyard in the center of the castle complex.
The north gate into the courtyard features a raven (the symbol of the famed King Matthias) and the south gate features two lions. In the center of the square is a statue of a cowboy and horse from the Hungarian plains. Most strikingly, an ornate fountain shows King Matthias on a hunt and the peasant girl who fell in love with him.
Experience exquisite Hungarian national art in this museum located in the former Royal Palace.
The museum contains the most important collection of Hungarian art works from the 15th century to the modern day. Exquisite Gothic altarpieces, Károly Lotz's Secession-era paintings, and Mihály Munkácsy's tender realism are only a few of its many highlights.
You can enjoy the best view in Budapest from Gellért Hill. Just beneath it you will find two of the city's most famous baths. The Secession-style Gellért baths, with an elegant collonaded main pool and incredible tile-work, and the 500-year-old Rudas Baths, which were built by the Turks when they ruled Hungary.
Go for a swim in one of Budapest's most famous and architecturally significant baths.
These early 19th century Secession-style baths are some of city's most popular. They offer open air baths with a wave pool, a glass-ceilinged indoor pool surrounded by columns, and thermal baths separated by sex. The men's thermal baths feature beautiful mosaic tile.
Enjoy an otherworldly experience in this 16th-century spa complex with traditional Turkish baths.
These nearly 500 year old steam baths date back to the Turkish occupation. It is a fascinating and exotic experience to bathe beneath the stone cupola, with the dim light filtering through colored stained glass. Bathing is co-ed on weekends, women only on Tuesdays, and men only on other days.
Hike up this small mountain in the heart of the city for perfect panoramic views.
A walk up this small hill leads to balconies with scenic views of the Danube. With numerous trails criss-crossing it, the park offers a green oasis in the city and has long been a favorite spot for picnics and weekend outings. The walk to the top is somewhat strenuous, but the park can be enjoyed without making it to the top.
Day 9
Bratislava to Budapest
Day 10
Budapest
Day 10
Budapest
9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
During your tour you will take in a gorgeous vista of the city from the Fisherman's Bastion, explore the winding streets of the Castle District, gaze in awe at the striking interior of St. Stephen's Basilica, travel along the city's most elegant avenue and more. Along the way you will experience the city as a local does, stopping to check out intimate courtyards, enjoying a pastry and soaking in the ambiance of Budapest's most elegant cafes.
During your tour you will take in a gorgeous vista of the city from the Fisherman's Bastion, explore the winding streets of the Castle District, gaze in awe at the striking interior of St. Stephen's Basilica, travel along the city's most elegant avenue and more. Along the way you will experience the city as a local does, stopping to check out intimate courtyards, enjoying a pastry and soaking in the ambiance of Budapest's most elegant cafes.
The Central Market Hall is a mezzanine shopping arcade first opened in 1897. Today the Central Market teems with activity like small shops and stands offer a remarkable assortment of goods, including fruits and vegetables, meats and cheeses, fish, flowers, and Hungarian specialties. There are also many souvenirs available on the second floor of the market.
Walk one of Budapest's main pedestrian thoroughfares, which is very popular with shoppers and tourists.
The street is lined by shops, boutiques, cafés, and restaurants. Many elegant buildings line the street, most dating to the late19th century. Numerous courtyards and passageways branch off from the street. Although touristy, it is an integral part of the city and an interesting place to stroll.
Discover why this pedestrian walkway along the Danube River, with it's beautiful views of the river and castle, is a favorite of both locals and visitors alike.
This promenade above the river embankment was the place to see-and-be-seen in 19th century Budapest. Cafes and luxury hotels lined the promenade, taking advantage of stunning views of the castle. They were destroyed in WWII and replaced with large modern hotels, eliminating some of the charm. The view, however, is still incredible.
Shop in a huge market hall built in the late 19th century.
This restored neo-gothic Market Hall is a favorite with visitors but also still visited by locals for its outstanding food stands and grocery stalls on the ground floor. On the upper levels, you can shop for souvenirs and traditional Hungarian goods & crafts.
In Central Pest you will discover the beating heart of the city, with grand apartment houses and art nouveau architectural gems. No visit to Budapest is complete without seeing its highlights, including St. Stephen's Basilica, which dramatically rises above the city, and the Chain Bridge, which regally spans the Danube.
Enjoy an awe-inspiring visit to this vast cupola-topped church; the most famous in Budapest.
Completed in 1905, the construction of the neo-classical Catholic church took over 50 years. The mummified hand of Hungary's first king, St. Stephen, is kept in a small chapel in the rear. Take a lift to the dome to enjoy one of Budapest's most interesting panoramic views. The church hosts frequent concerts.
Stroll across a beautiful landmark 19th-century suspension bridge which is a symbol of Budapest.
This was Budapest's first permanent bridge over the Danube, enabling the cities of Buda and Pest to merge. Named after Count István Széchenyi, it hangs from iron chains (hence, the Chain Bridge) anchored by two towering river piers. These piers were the only elements to survive WWII fighting. The rest was rebuilt.
Enjoy a leisurely coffee and cake in one of Budapest's most storied cafes.
Over 160 years old, with a grand, high-ceilinged dining room, the cafe is deservedly one of Budapest's most popular attractions. It serves coffee, mouthwatering Hungarian pastries, and traditional bistro dishes. It retains the elegance and sophistication of its 19th century origins, and the terrace sits on the lively Vörösmarty Square.
Take a peak at this pearl of art nouveau architecture, which now houses a Four Seasons Hotel.
The hotel doesn't mind tourists exploring the lavish arcade on the first floor, as it is lined by shops and a café. Be sure to note the organic themes of the façade and the beautiful wrought iron peacock gate on the north side of the building.
Day 10
Budapest
Day 11
Budapest
Day 11
Budapest
Morning
Budapest was once the site of one of Europe's largest and most vibrant Jewish communities and contains the world's second largest synagogue – the Dohány Street Synagogue. A visit there is an impressive reminder of the wealth and influence the Jewish community in Hungary once possessed. A small but vibrant Jewish population still inhabits the Jewish Quarter today.
Discover Budapest's most unique form of nightlife - pubs located in the ruins of old buildings!
Show More
Learn about the Holocaust in a former synagogue which honors Hungarian Jews killed in WWII.
Show More
Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights
Stare in awe at Europe's largest synagogue (and the second largest in the world).
Show MoreDiscover Budapest's most unique form of nightlife - pubs located in the ruins of old buildings!
Show MoreLearn about the Holocaust in a former synagogue which honors Hungarian Jews killed in WWII.
Show MoreBrowse the gallery to see some of the highlights
Stare in awe at Europe's largest synagogue (and the second largest in the world).
Show MoreBudapest was once the site of one of Europe's largest and most vibrant Jewish communities and contains the world's second largest synagogue – the Dohány Street Synagogue. A visit there is an impressive reminder of the wealth and influence the Jewish community in Hungary once possessed. A small but vibrant Jewish population still inhabits the Jewish Quarter today.
Stare 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.
Discover 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.
Learn 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.
The Hungarian Parliament building is a magnificent sight as it rises above the waters of the Danube, and the interior is also quite jaw-dropping. As a visitor, you may even feel a bit overwhelmed by the sumptuous décor and attention-to-detail. You could be forgiven for expecting a queen to arrive or an aristocratic ball to break out at any moment.
Tour this massive and stunning Gothic Revival–style edifice with a guide.
The Parliament is ostentatious, but undeniably grand and beautiful. A teeming mass of spires, arches, and towers surrounds the central dome, beneath which the royal crown of Hungary lies under armed guard. Tours of the lavish interiors include the crown, parliament chambers, and grand entry hall. Pre-purchasing tickets is recommended as they often sell out well in advance.
This building once housed the Hungarian Supreme Court and the Ethnographic museum. The museum is relocating to City Park and will open in 2022.
It was the second place winner in the competition to design the Hungarian Parliament. Many believe it is as beautiful at the Parliament, especially it's interiors.
Reflect at a waterside sculpture of shoes memorializing the victims of fascism who died at this spot.
This moving memorial consists of empty shoes by the riverbank. Near the end of World War II a fascist party took control in Hungary. Jews were lined up along the river bank, forced to step out of their shoes (so they could be collected later), and then machine gunned into the river.
The Széchenyi Baths are the largest and the most popular of all the city's baths. With eighteen indoor and outdoor pools and impressive neo-Baroque architecture, the baths make for an unforgettable visit. Nearby, you will find the fascinating Vajdahunyad Castle, a delightful zoo, and the monumental Heroes’ Square, which tells a 1,000-year old tale of Hungarian history.
A dramatic square at the end of Adrássy Avenue, displaying statues of the leaders of 7 tribes who founded Hungary.
The vast square was the center of the Millenium celebrations in 1896, which celebrated Hungary's 1,000th anniversary. The Millenium Monument features a central column and two massive colonnades. The column is topped by the Archangel Gabriel, who offered the crown to Hungary's first king, Stephen. Along the base of the column and colonnades are romantic representations of Hungarian historical figures. The two chariots atop the colonnades represent war and peace.
This fantastical castle with a boating lake shows the evolution of Hungarian architecture in its elaborate design.
Built for the 1896 Millenium celebrations as a temporary exhibit, the castle proved so popular that it was rebuilt as a permanent structure. It's divided into sections by architectural style as a demonstration of the historical phases of Hungary. Each section is fashioned after a renowned Hungarian example of that architectural style.
One of Europe's most enjoyable zoos with hundreds of animal species and historic architecture throughout the park.
The Secession style architecture of the buildings is a delight, incorporating animals and natural themes into the structures. Adjacent to the zoo is Holnemvolt Park, which combines animal exhibits with theme park rides. One ticket covers both.
Day 11
Budapest
Day 12
Depart Budapest
Day 12
Depart Budapest
To Be Determined
Budapest has one main airport, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, where almost all visitors depart. Your hotel can arrange a reliable taxi (there is no Uber in Budapest). You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about two hours and forty-five minutes before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with about two hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.
Budapest has one main airport, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, where almost all visitors depart. Your hotel can arrange a reliable taxi (there is no Uber in Budapest). You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about two hours and forty-five minutes before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with about two hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.
Day 12
Depart Budapest
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10 Days
Central European Rhapsody: A Cultural and Historical Odyssey
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
