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Compare The Heart of Europe by Train by TripMasters vs Germany, Czech Republic, Austria & Hungary in 11 days - Capitals of Central Europe - CHARM BY BUS by Exoticca

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Duration 24 days 11 days
Price From $ 2,203 $ 1,899
Price Per Day $ 92 $ 173
Highlights
  • Flight into Prague and out of Munich
  • Hotel for 2 nights in Prague
  • Train from Prague to Vienna
  • Hotel for 2 nights in Vienna
  • Train from Vienna to Budapest
  • Hotel for 2 nights in Budapest
  • Train from Budapest to Zagreb
  • Hotel for 2 nights in Zagreb
  • Train from Zagreb to Ljubjana
  • Hotel for 2 nights in Ljubljana
  • Train from Ljubljana to Venice
  • Hotel for 2 nights in Venice
  • Train from Venice to Lucerne
  • Hotel for 2 nights in Lucerne
  • Train from Lucerne to Munich
  • Hotel for 2 nights in Munich
  • Vienna
  • Budapest
  • Prague
  • Berlin
Trip Style Retreats Small group tour
Lodging Level Standard Standard
Physical Level
  • 3- Moderate
  • 1- Very easy
Travel Themes
  • Cultural
  • Culinary & Wine
  • Family Friendly
  • Train & Rail Journeys
  • Cultural
  • Nature & Wildlife
  • 50 plus
  • Local Immersion & Homestays
  • National Parks
Countries Visited
Cities and Attractions
  • Budapest
  • Ljubljana
  • Lucerne
  • Munich
  • Prague
  • Vienna
  • Zagreb
  • Berlin
  • Budapest
  • Prague
  • Vienna
Flights & Transport Ground transport included Airfare included
Activities
  • Culture
  • History
  • Kayaking
  • Nature
  • Ruins & Archaeology
  • Trains & Rail
  • Winetasting
  • Culture
  • Historic sightseeing
  • History
  • Homestays & Cultural Immersion
  • Nature
  • Ruins & Archaeology
Meals Included N/A 10 breakfasts.
Description

Discover the jewels of the Heart of Europe with this enticing vacation package - there is simply no better way to see these cities and the surrounding countryside than by train! Your adventure begins in Prague (a stunning, diverse city with a rich heritage) before heading to Vienna (the birthplace of Mozart; home of classical music and waltzes), Budapest (a dual city - full of interest, monuments, and glimpses of history), Zagreb (the cultural, political, social and economic center of Croatia) and Ljubljana (Slovenia`s leading city and an important center of influence), Venice (the charming, romantic city on canals), Lucerne (a lovely city of covered bridges, frescoed houses, cobblestone streets, and glorious fountains) - and finally Munich (a stunning city of museums, historical sights, theater, food and fun). 

Get to know the magical cities and charming culture of Central Europe! Unearth the history of bohemian Berlin, a melting pot of cultures. In Prague, stroll through the fairytale streets of this 'City of a Hundred Spires' before discovering the artistic legacy of enchanting Vienna. Finally, explore the Hungarian capital of Budapest, on the banks of the River Danube.

Itinerary: The Heart of Europe by Train

Day 1 in Prague

Welcome to Prague! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! The city of a thousand spires awaits you!

Begin your visit in the Old Town (Staré Mesto). Old Town Square is the historical heart of Prague and it is here that you will find the Old Town Hall and its famous Astronomical Clock, dating from the 14th century. Be sure to see the hourly procession of the apostles on the clock and then climb (or take the elevator) to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city, including the Gothic spires of the Tyn Church and Jan Hus monument. Then stop for lunch (and more amazing photos) at the rooftop restaurant of the U Prince restaurant on the square or try the traditional goulash and roast pork knee with cabbage and dumplings served at U Vejvodu, one of the original restaurants of the Pilsner brewery, located on Jilska street.

This afternoon, explore the Jewish Quarter (Josefov) including the Maisel Synagogue, the Pinkas Synagogue, the Spanish Synagogue, the Old Jewish Cemetery and the Jewish Museum. Afterwards, head to Powder Tower, one of the historical gates to Old Town, before continuing next door to admire the exquisite Art Nouveau interiors of Prague`s Municipal House, where the Czechoslovak Declaration of Independence was signed. This is a good place to stop for a cup of coffee or bite to eat in the ground floor restaurant. You can also have dinner in the famous Sarah Bernhardt restaurant, located in Hotel Paris, opposite the Municipal House. Finish your evening with a romantic stroll across the Charles Bridge at night.

 

Day 2 in Prague

Wake up early today and head for Charles Bridge to gaze upon its many statues and touch the Cross of St. Jan of Nepomuk. (You can climb the towers at either end of the bridge for panoramic views of the city.) Across the Vltava River, in Lesser Town (Mala Strana), you will want to visit the baroque Church of St. Nicholas as well as the Church of Our Lady Victorious, home to the famous `Infant Jesus of Prague`. Afterwards, explore the quaint streets of this area that were once home to diplomats and merchants and now house many foreign embassies.

From Mala Strana continue to the beautiful cloisters of Strahov Monastery, where you can stop for a refreshing beer and snack, before visiting the Prague Loreto, Castle Square and Prague Castle, which in not a single building, but rather a complex of buildings and churches. Your tour of Prague Castle, founded in the 9th century, should include visits to St. Vitus Cathedral, the Royal Palace, St. George`s Basilica and Golden Lane.

After a busy day of sightseeing, board a relaxing dinner boat cruise along the Vltava River and admire the sights of Prague by night. Or if you enjoy opera, you can catch a performance at the famous Estates Theatre where Mozart`s Don Giovanni was first staged in 1787.

 

Day 3 in Prague

Begin your day exploring Wenceslas Square, the busiest and liveliest part of the city. There are many choices for dining and shopping in this area, especially on Na Prikope Street. Here, you should visit the National Museum at the top of the Square, with its Hall of Fame devoted to famous Czech personalities, as well as the Alfons Mucha Museum on Panska Street, parallel to the square. This relaxing oasis showcases the Art Nouveau designs of the famous artist.

This afternoon, head into New Town (Nove Mesto), to see the New Town Hall and Charles Square before continuing towards the river to Dancing House and the Manes Exhibition Hall, dominated by a 15th century water tower and dedicated to all forms of visual arts. Its juxtaposition of old and new makes it one of the most photographed landmarks in Prague. Afterwards, follow the river up to the National Theatre then cross the Legion Bridge.

Time permitting, make your way to Ujezd tram stop and follow the signs for `Lanove drahy` to ride the funicular up to the Petrin Tower (Little Eiffel Tower) for the most amazing views of the city! Finally, spend your last evening wandering around the quaint shops and restaurants of Kampa Park before making your way across the Charles Bridge one last time.

 

Additional Days in Prague

Should you be able to spend additional days in Prague then try a day trip outside of the city to experience even more of the rich history and culture of this beautiful country. By far the most popular destination in the Czech Republic after Prague is the medieval Karlstejn Castle. It was built by the King of Bohemia, Charles IV, to safeguard the crown jewels of the Holy Roman Empire.

Afterward, return to the city and see some sights you might have missed. Take in a concert of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra at the Rudolfinum; learn more about the torments the Czech people endured under Communism at the aptly-named Museum of Communism; take a stroll through the largest park in the city, Stromovka; or you can see the ornate Wallenstein Palace, meant to rival Prague Castle, now serving as the meeting place of the Czech Senate.

Another popular city for tourists to visit is the town of Kutná Hora. After Prague, this medieval town was the most important town in Bohemia due to its rich silver deposits. The historic center and Kutná Hora`s main draw, St. Barbara`s Cathedral, have been on the UNESCO list for more than 10 years. Cesky Krumlov, with the second largest castle complex in the country, the spa town of Karlovy Vary and the haunting Terezin Memorial are also great choices so be sure to inquire about visiting these places during the booking process.

 

Your Last Day in Prague

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel, in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

 

Day 1 in Vienna

Welcome to Vienna, the capital city of Austria! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do.

The Austrian capital boasts coffee houses, museums, history and imperial palaces. And the best part is that everything is in close range. Most of Vienna`s major attractions are located around the Ringstrasse, a historic city center that is easily visited on foot. This is where some of the most prominent must-see sights in Vienna are located, such as the City Hall and the State Opera.

From the Ringstrasse, you have the option of taking a tram around the boulevard and getting off at the sights, or you can simply walk to them. We recommend you spend some time here getting acquainted with the city and taking in the ambiance.

Spend your first evening in Vienna enjoying a warm schnitzel and a glass of beer at anyone of the many restaurants in the city. If you choose to continue on your evening to the bar scene, make your way to the Bermuda Triangle, an area roughly bordered by Judengasse, Seitenstatengasse Rabensteig, and Franz-Josefs-Kai. You`ll find everything from intimate watering holes to large bars with live music.

 

Day 2 in Vienna

Wake up early today to continue your Viennese adventure at the Museums Quarter (`MQ`). The inner courtyard with funky lounge furniture, cafes and two main museums: The Mumok (Modern Art) and the Leopold (Austrian Impressionism). The Mumok presents changing contemporary art exhibitions as well as permanent collections of classical modernism, while the Leopold features work from Gustav Klimt, one of the greatest artists of Austrian art. The MQ also has smaller museums such as the Children`s Museum and Austrian architecture museum.

Then take a stroll around Maria-Theresien-Platz, a public square that sits in front of the MQ and holds two massive art museums that face each other, the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Fine Arts Museum) and the Naturhistorisches Museum (Museum of Natural History). The Fine Arts Museum features Greek, Roman and Egyptian collections while the Museum of Natural History holds the largest collection of meteorites, animal displays and pre-historic art like `Venus of Willendorf,` a statuette of a curvy-shaped female figure from the years 28,000 to 25,000 BCE.

In the afternoon, take a break at one of the Viennese cafes in the area. You may want to try Cafe Landtmann, an elegant Viennese café and tourist hot-spot founded in 1873. Sigmund Freud, the famous psychologist, was a frequent customer here.

After lunch take a stroll to Volksgarten, translated as `The People’s Garden,` it is part of the Hofburg Palace. In the center of the garden is the neoclassical Theseus Temple, a small-scale replica of the Temple of Hephaestus in Athens. You will be in for quite the treat if you come when all the beautiful flowers and rose gardens are in bloom!

Walk through the garden until you see Heldenplatz (Heroes Square) - a large public square in front of the Hofburg`s residence. This is where the offices of the President of Austria are located. Also, in 1938, Adolf Hitler`s ceremonial announcement of the Austrian Anschluss (the invasion and forced incorporation by Nazi Germany) took place here. On the plaza are two equestrian statues and the Austrian National Library Square, which houses an incredibly large and ornate public library with 7.4 million items in its collections. Behind the library is Burggarten, another imperial garden, where you can take a picture alongside a statue of Mozart.

As you walk through the Hofburg residence, pass by the Imperial Spanish Riding School, the only riding school in the world where the classic equestrian skills (haute école) are preserved and practiced in its original form. Nearby are the Sisi Apartments which you can tour to learn more about Princess Sisi, Austria`s most misunderstood Empress, and see the once lavish lifestyle of Austria`s last Imperial family.

Eventually you come out onto Michaelerplatz (St. Michael`s Place) with the domed Michaelertrakt, a Neo-Baroque monument. In the middle of Michaelerplatz are excavated Roman ruins of a house with medieval foundations. One part of the circular area has St. Michael`s Church from 1792, dedicated to the Archangel Michael. It is one of the oldest churches in Vienna and one of the few remaining Romanesque buildings in the city.

Stroll over to Demel, a famous pastry and chocolate shop built in 1786 that once served the royal court. Order a sweet treat such as the Sacher-Torte (famous Viennese chocolate cake with an apricot filling) or an apple strudel, and head to the back of the shop to watch bakers prepare their Viennese delicacies. After Demel, do some window shopping at the Golden Quarter, a luxury shopping street.

As evening approaches, we recommend dinner at Figlmüller, the `home of the schnitzel` for more than 100 years, where you can order their original Wiener Schnitzel with potato salad.

End your night by taking a night walk (gelato in hand) in the city at `Ferrari Gelato,` located near the Opera House. We recommend the almond and caramel flavors - so delicious!

 

Day 3 in Vienna

Begin your day with a stroll down Kärtnerstrasse, a famous shopping street and eventually end up at the Vienna State Opera House, one of the top opera houses in the world. This masterpiece from the 19th century provides first-class performances with over 50 operas and ballet shows 300 days per year. Next door is the Albertina Museum, known for its elegant staterooms and valuable art collections (such as Monet and Picasso paintings). Nearby is the famous sausage stand, Bitzingers, well known for their Kasekrainer (a cheese-stuffed sausage).

A few blocks away, and only open on Saturdays, is the Naschmarkt, a large farmer`s market that sells fresh fruits, vegetables, exotic spices, meats, and other international goodies. Only a few minutes away is the Secession Contemporary Art Building with its ever-changing collection of modern Austrian artwork. Just next door is another `must see`, Karlsplatz (or Charles Square), with the incredibly large Baroque-styled church of St. Charles built in 1737. Tours of the inside are available for a reasonable price.

In the afternoon, make your way to Belvedere Palace, a lovely palace from the 1700`s. We recommend you spend some time discovering the beautiful and widespread palace grounds, and tour inside the two buildings to see the beautiful collection of famous artwork.

Spend your last evening at Prater, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, it`s like stepping into another world. Take a ride on the Wiener Riesenrad, a giant Ferris wheel and famous Vienna landmark that was built in 1896. Also worth visiting is nearby Danube Park (Donaupark), a 250-acre open space that`s home to a fun miniature railroad, an artificial lake (Lake Iris), and a theater.

Alternatively, if you have more time and are willing to make the trip (about a 30 minute tram ride away), check out the wine tavern village of Grinzingand where you can enjoy some good wine and food at Feuerwehr Wagner, a family-owned establishment that has a 300 year old vineyard.

 

Additional Days in Vienna

Should you be able to spend additional days in Vienna we recommend you continue to explore in and around the city, there is still so much to see and do. Check out the Vienna Zoo, founded in 1752, this is the oldest zoo in the world. A highlight here is the 750 species of giant pandas, including cubs, as well as the many fascinating creatures housed in the interactive Rainforest House and Aquarium. Another fun attraction is the Madame Tussauds interactive wax museum offering up several photographic opportunities. You can study the wax figurines up close and see the incredible craft details. If you`ve never been to a Madame Tussauds, then this is great! You may also want to visit the Johann Strauss apartment, have a river cruise, check out the Sigmund Freud Museum and enjoy a wine cellar tour.

 

Your Last Day in Vienna

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel, in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

 

Day 1 in Budapest

Welcome to Hungary! If you are arriving at the airport, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel, a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Whether you arrive by air or rail, make your way to central Budapest and arrive at your hotel. Check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do!

Begin the trip by sampling one of the most famous coffeehouses in Budapest: Cafe Gerbeaud, the New York Cafe, and the Ruszwurm Confectionery are the best-known. From there, head north on the Buda side of the river to the Aquincum Museum, and learn about the settlement the Romans built close to modern-day Budapest.

While on the Buda side, pay your respects at the tomb of Gul Baba, a poet and cleric who helped Suleiman the Magnificent claim these lands in the sixteenth century for the Ottoman Empire. To round out the day, visit the whale-shaped New Budapest Gallery and event space to view the finest works of applied art on display anywhere in the capital. End the evening by taking a visit to Szimpla Kert in Pest, a popular `ruin bar` which has become an expatriate and tourist meeting place.

 

Day 2 in Budapest

This morning we recommend that you start at the Opera House with a short ride by Millennium metro (the first underground metro line in continental Europe) to reach Heroes` Square and Varosliget, Budapest`s City Park. Afterwards, visit of the Vajdahunyad Castle complex followed by a stop at the Szechenyi thermal baths where the guide will explain about Hungarian bath culture. If you wish, go to the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Gardens afterward, also on the City Park property.

Continuing on, you will see the areas of Ferenc Deak Square, Elisabeth Square and St. Stephen`s Basilica before taking a break in a cafe for a taste of Hungary`s pastry called `retes`, which is a strudel. Following a short stroll along Vaci Street, the best-known pedestrian shopping street in the city, and Vorosmarty Square, you will head down to the Danube Promenade, where you can view the Shoes on the Danube Holocaust Memorial and see spectacular views of Gellért Hill and the Citadella, the Buda Hills, and the Buda Castle district.

After a brief stop at Lajos Kossuth Square in front of the Hungarian Parliament, you will cross the famous Szechenyi Chain Bridge, the oldest bridge connecting Buda and Pest. Then you will climb up the stairs (or take the funicular) up to the Buda Castle district to see the Royal Palace, Matthias Church and Fisherman`s Bastion.

From Fisherman`s Bastion, sip a glass of wine as you watch the sun set over Pest. Wander through the old cobbled stone streets while you wait for darkness to fall - the views of Parliament and the Chain Bridge illuminated at night are absolutely breathtaking!

 

Day 3 in Budapest

Budapest is home to many museums, including the Ethnographical Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Hungarian National Gallery. An afternoon in the Jewish district (District VII) will not disappoint. The Dohány Street Synagogue is the largest in Europe. In the rear courtyard, you will see a weeping willow sculpture, the Raoul Wallenberg Holocaust Memorial, which lists the names of the Hungarian Jews murdered during World War II, and also honors Raoul Wallenberg and other `righteous among the nations` who helped Hungarian Jews escape Hitler`s regime. The smaller Rumbach Synagogue is right around the corner.

A trip to the Central Market Hall is not only a good place to pick up souvenirs, but also a fun place for people watching. The balcony overlooking the whole market is an experience you should not miss. Cross the Liberty Bridge afterward and make your way to either the Gellért Baths or the Rudas Baths near Elisabeth Bridge and relax at one of these healing spas.

If you have time, we suggest a trip to Memento Park. These days most people have forgotten that the city was once filled with statues to Lenin, Marx and other representations of the Communist era. In the aftermath of 1989, a plan was conceived for an outdoor museum, Memento Park, for these unwelcome reminders of those difficult times. Besides the 42 statues, you will find a lot of symbolism and metaphors for the ugly realities of Communism.

 

Additional Days in Budapest

Should you be able to spend additional days in Budapest, then try a day trip outside of the city to experience even more of the rich history and culture of Hungary. We suggest you take public transportation such as the commuter rail line #5, which will take you to the picturesque artists` village of Szentendre where you will visit the magnificent Caprice Hungarian Jewellery Center. If you would like to experience more of Hungary`s history further afield, consider arranging for transportation to take you to Visegrad, the former Royal Residence and to Esztergom, center of the Catholic Church.

Return to Buda and visit Sandor Palace, the current residence of the President of Hungary. Afterwards, visit Pest once more and tour the House of Terror, largely dedicated to life, struggles, and torments as Hungary experienced them during the Soviet-dominated era from 1949 to 1989.

 

Your Last Day in Budapest

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel, in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

 

Day 1 in Zagreb

Welcome to Croatia! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Make your way to Zagreb and arrive at your hotel. Check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do!

Start your trip in Zagreb by exploring Dolac Market, the largest open-air market in the city, and nearby Ban Josip Jelacic Square, which is fully pedestrianized and is Zagreb`s central square. Take the Zagreb Funicular up to Lotrscak Tower and view the art pieces on display, some of which were moved here from the Klovicevi Dvori Gallery, which is also nearby. In between Lotrscak Tower and the Klovicevi Dvori Gallery, you will see the Baroque-inspired St. Catherine`s Church, with its tall, whitewashed façade.

Past the Klovicevi Dvori, you will encounter Stone Gate (Kamenita vrata), which linked the two portions of the Upper Town in Medieval times. From here, explore St. Mark`s Square, which includes the iconic St. Mark`s Church, the parish church of the old neighborhood of Gradec, and Parliament Palace, where the Croatian Parliament meets. If you travel east from Stone Gate, you will encounter Tkalciceva ulica, where there are many restaurants and bars. Take some time to eat, drink, and people-watch. Return to your accommodations at the end of the evening.

 

Day 2 in Zagreb

Begin the morning by strolling the streets of Kaptol, the oldest portion of the city of Zagreb. Over nine hundred years ago, King Ladislaus proclaimed Kaptol as the seat of the Roman Catholic Church in Croatia. The centerpiece of Kaptol is Zagreb Cathedral, the best-preserved Gothic cathedral southeast of the Swiss Alps. The spires shoot 350 feet in the air, making it the tallest building in all of Croatia.

Walk down to the lower portion of Upper Town and start a walking tour of Lenuci`s Horseshoe, which consists of seven green areas mostly linked in a U-shape. Be sure to stop in at the museums and other buildings you will see along the way. The first green space you will see is Nikola Subic Zrinski Square, locally called Zrinjevac, which is located in the upper-right quadrant of the `horseshoe`. On the western side of the square, there`s the Archaeological Museum in Zagreb; take some time to view its historical exhibits, such as the one on Ancient Egypt, the only one of its type in the former Yugoslavia. The next park down is Strossmayer Park, where the Strossmayer Gallery of Old Masters is located, inside the Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts building. The last of the green spaces on the eastern side of the horseshoe, south of Strossmayer Park, is King Tomislav Square, home of the Neoclassical-inspired Art Pavilion, the statue of King Tomislav, and Zagreb Main train station.

Walking west, the next green space you will visit is the Zagreb Botanical Garden. It is one of the oldest of its kind in Eastern Europe, having been open to the public for 130 years. Walking north, you will encounter Marko Marulic Square, where the Croatian State Archives are located. The Archives have saved documents important to the Croatian people and its laws for over 400 years. The next square to the north is Mazuranic Square, and just off that square is the Zagreb Ethnographic Museum. The final green space is Republic of Croatia Square, and in the middle sits the beautiful Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb. If you have time at the end of the afternoon, visit one of the most breathtaking art museums in Zagreb, the Mimara Museum. In the evening, stroll one of Zagreb`s signature avenues, Ilica, do some shopping, and get something delicious to eat. Return to your accommodations at the end of the day.

 

Day 3 in Zagreb

Take the entire morning and part of the early afternoon by enjoying the natural sights of Zagreb`s largest public park, and one of the oldest in Eastern Europe, Park Maksimir. There are five lakes and a number of streams which run through the park, in addition to noteworthy buildings such as the 19th-century era Pavilion of Echoes and the Swiss House. The southernmost 17 acres are set aside for the Zagreb Zoo, which houses a number of endangered species.

Afterward, head to the Lower Town and explore the youthful and vibrant University of Zagreb campus. Then cross the Sava River and take in all the beautiful pieces at the Museum of Contemporary Art, showcasing works by Croatian and international artists. Spend the rest of the afternoon taking in one more museums in Lenuci`s Horseshoe, the Museum of Arts and Crafts. Spend one more evening in Tkalciceva ulica and enjoy a Croatian beer with your dinner if you are so inclined. Return to your accommodations at the end of the evening.

 

Additional Days in Zagreb

If you have some extra days in Zagreb, take a day or two to `be one with nature`. Explore Park Maksimir some more, and then head southwest of the city to Lake Jarun. Lake Jarun is known for its world-class sports and leisure center, which includes water sports such as kayaking. Enjoy the sunshine and see if you can make friends with any of the other people basking in the beautiful scenery.

If you have another day, explore Medvednica, which includes a nature park, a ski resort (Sljeme Ski Resort), and Medvedgrad, a fortress built to protect the area around Zagreb after the Mongol invasion of 1242. The ski resort is world-class and popular with travelers in the wintertime, and the nature park offers hiking and spectacular views of Zagreb any time of year, but it is definitely most optimal in the spring and summer seasons.

 

Your Last Day in Zagreb

Depart your hotel and head to the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer; if so, a representative will meet you at the hotel in time to take you to the airport for your flight out. We hope you enjoyed Croatia`s capital city!

 

Day 1 in Ljubljana

Welcome to Slovenia! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do!

Start your trip by walking Slovenska cesta, one of the busiest streets in the city. There are many great places to eat and shop on this street. From there, continue down to Cop Street and Preseren Square, window-shopping and people-watching along the way. For those who love art, stop at the National Gallery of Slovenia and view art from renowned Slovenian and European artists. If you are more interested in history, particularly the history of Yugoslavia as well as the history of Slovenia post-independence, peruse the exhibits at the Museum of Contemporary History.

Before sunset, explore Ljubljana`s largest green space, Tivoli Park. If you have time, decide on either a sunset viewing at the top of Mount Saint Mary, or visit Zoo Ljubljana and see the variety of animals that live in this geographically diverse country.

 

Day 2 in Ljubljana

Start your morning early by strolling the promenade along the Ljubljanica River in the pedestrian-only old town. Cross the Dragon Bridge and enter Vodnik Square, the site of Ljubljana Central Market. Peruse the offerings sold by local vendors and buy unique Slovenian-made souvenirs. Adjacent to the Central Market is the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, one of the mother churches of the Archdiocese of Ljubljana. Cross Butchers` Bridge to get to the iconic red Franciscan Church of the Annunciation, another primary house of worship for Catholics in Ljubljana. On your way to Town Square, cross the Ljubljanica at Triple Bridge.

In Town Square, take some time to admire the Baroque-Venetian Town Hall and the Robba Fountain, inspired by the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi in Rome. Finally, decide on your evening plans: have a drink at one of the coffeehouses and cafes in Metelkova mesto, or take in a show at the Slovene National Opera and Ballet Theatre or the Slovenian Philharmonic.

 

Day 3 in Ljubljana

Begin as soon as the National Museum of Slovenia opens. This is a large and detailed museum and you can spend hours exploring and learning about everything from archaeological finds to Slovenian coins. You will pass by the iconic Parliament building on your way to Slovenia`s national archive at the jewel in Joze Plecnik`s architectural crown: the National and University Library of Slovenia. You will have the chance to learn more about the life and the work of Joze Plecnik at his residence, the Plecnik House.

Religious architectural buffs will have the chance to see another noteworthy church, the Baroque Ursuline Church of the Holy Trinity, built in 1726. Afterwards, wander onto Congress Square and stop for a coffee at one of the nearby cafes. If you come to Ljubljana during the summer, try to attend a play at the Krizanke Summer Theatre. Otherwise, consider buying tickets to an event at Cankar Hall, Slovenia`s largest performing arts complex.

 

Additional Days in Ljubljana

Slovenia is well-known for its extensive underground cave systems. Skocjan Caves, outside of Ljubljana, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been described as `one of the largest known underground canyons in the world.` If you have time, go to Postojna, an hour southwest of Ljubljana, and explore the limestone passageways of Postojna Cave. Fun fact about Postojna Cave: it`s home to the world`s only underground post office!

Maribor is located about an hour and a half northeast of Ljubljana and is the second-largest city in the country. Its history stretches back to the 13th century and has a resilient nature, most recently rising from the ashes after being heavily damaged in World War II. A former European Capital of Culture and European Youth Capital, Maribor is home to a large and vibrant university subculture and lots of historical buildings and monuments, including Maribor Synagogue (the epicenter of the Jewish community in the city from 1429 to 1941).

Fifty miles southeast of Ljubljana, on the banks of the Sava River, the town of Sevnica was once a sleepy outpost tucked away in a lush green valley, until a girl named Melanija Knavs became Sevnica`s most famous homegrown export. You may know Ms. Knavs better as Melania Trump, the First Lady of the United States. Hundreds of thousands of tourists are now flocking to Sevnica to learn more about the First Lady`s hometown. Attractions include Sevnica Castle, the parish church of St. Nicholas, and nearby wineries.

 

Your Last Day in Ljubljana

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We hope you enjoyed your time in Slovenia`s beautiful capital city!

 

Day 1 in Venice

Welcome to Venice! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do.

Start your day by wandering around the giant maze of bridges, lanes and canals. Getting lost in Venice is not very hard to do, sure you can follow a map, but we recommend you put it down and allow yourself to get lost! As your strolling the side streets and alleyways, stop in one of the charming cafes to enjoy lunch and grab a souvenir at one of the many kiosks or shops you`ll pass along your way.

Enjoy your first evening in Venice by taking a sunset gondola ride. With the sky changing into hues of pink, the beauty of Venice`s waterways during this time of day is exceptionally picturesque. Hiring a gondolier who will hum Italian melodies while rowing you around is a one of a kind experience.

Afterward, spend some time over a relaxing meal at one of the city`s fancy restaurants. Wander alongside the canals and notice the mood of Venice change after the sun has set, so stay up late and embrace the city (and romance) of the evening!

 

Day 2 in Venice

Start your day off early at the City Center at Piazza San Marco and wander around the iconic public square. The city square, commonly known as St. Mark`s Square, boasts buildings and monuments representative of both the Baroque and Victorian era. From the Gothic styles to the intricate details that dominate the landscape about town, it`s definitely a sight to behold!

While at Piazza San Marco, you`ll notice the Basilica di San Marco, an elaborate structure illuminated with murals and gold embellishments. By getting to the Basilica early you may make it for an early morning mass: you`ll have the best part of an hour to reflect on the acres of glimmering mosaics. And unknown to most, the Basilica doubles as a museum and treasury for ancient artifacts, precious gems and jewels.

Don`t miss The Doge`s Palace, the most representative symbol of Venice`s culture, which, together with the Basilica of San Marco at the back and the Piazzetta in the forefront, forms one of the most famous sceneries in the world. Stop for a cappuccino or grab some lunch on the terrace of Caffè Florian for the most atmospheric surroundings on Piazza San Marco.

After lunch, explore the many bridges and canals while you head towards the legendary Grand Canal, Bridge of Sighs. If you`re wondering why it`s called the Bridge of Sighs, that`s because prisoners of the past convicted of crimes had to walk across that bridge to get to the prison grounds where they served their jail time. It is said that prisoners would sigh as they make their way across the bridge as a form of resignation to their fate. Today, the dark history of the bridge has been replaced with an urban legend where couples who kiss under the bridge will see their love stand the test of time.

Next, make your way to one of the most iconic bridges, the Rialto Bridge, located along the Grand Canal; this is the oldest and possibly one of the largest bridges in Venice. Unknown to most, the Rialto Bridge has experienced multiple collapses since its construction in the 16th century. Much like how the city might be submerging soon, it`s best to catch it while you can. (For the best photo, head to neighboring docks or bridges, which aren`t as crowded with tourists, you`ll get a clearer view.)

Spend your evening experiencing the local cuisine like a true Venetian. Know that most of the restaurants along the canals cater to tourists. Their menus are in English, the prices are a bit steeper, and the food is often just ok. To truly experience the best food in the city, get away from the touristy areas and step into restaurants that may require you to know a little bit of Italian.

Besides eating out at authentic Venetian restaurants, there are numerous ways to experience traditional cuisine and culture in Venice. Dine in the home of a local, go on a food tour, embark on a guided tour of Venice`s bacari wine bars and their famous cicchetti dishes, or take a Venetian pastry-making class!

 

Day 3 in Venice

Spend your last day in Venice Island hopping! Amongst the countless islands in Venice, Murano, Burano and Torcello are 3 major islands in the northern part of Venetian lagoon and are an absolute treat. Start off by exploring the island of Murano, a fisherman island and the biggest of the 3 islands, world famous for its glass factories. After visiting the Glass Museum and Chiesa di San Pietro Martire, jump back onboard your vaporetto (waterbus) and enjoy a half an hour ride to Burano. You may not know this, but the colorful walls of the residence in Burano are painted for a reason. The town`s city council used the vibrant colors as indicators marking the locals` houses to help guide the fishermen back home.

In Burano, make sure you drop by the Museo del Merletto (Burano Lace Museum) and the Church of San Martino Vescovo. After Burano, make your way to the Torcello and enjoy the grassy, secluded island decked in Byzantine mosaics and marshy muck lands. To put to perspective how secluded this island is, there are just about 75 inhabitants on the island! Walk around The Devil`s Bridge and Cattedrale di Torcello (Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta) and make your way back to Venice late in the evening.

On your last evening in Venice enjoy a visit to the beautiful Teatro La Fenice and experience the golden era of Italian Opera in this Baroque Opera house. The theatre once hosted world-renowned maestros like Verdi, Donizetti, Abbado, Muti and Chung, Rossini, Mirella Freni, Luciano Pavarotti and Bellini. The name La Fenice translates to `The Pheonix` and is a perfectly fitting moniker for this opera house that has been rebuilt from ash twice over during its existence. Teatro La Fenice was a space for Venice`s cultural elite before its fire stints after which it became a monumental attraction.

Today, this opera house is amongst Italy`s most celebrated monuments and rightly so. Soak in the opulence of this wonder; the plush seats, the stuccos and gold plated ceilings and walls, the Baroque elements and gilded private balconies while you`re here.

 

Additional Days in Venice

Should you be able to spend additional days in Venice we recommend you continue to explore the charming city of Venice. Make sure to see the historic Rialto Market sprawling on the western banks of the Grand Canal. This market will give you a glimpse of Venetian life as you watch the locals selling or buying local produce. The market is said to be a photographer`s paradise and despite the noisy buzzing atmosphere, you will have experienced a slice of venetian lifestyle when you step out of here. Markets have a way of telling you about the locals and their culture and the Rialto Market is the perfect example of this.

We also recommend you check out the plethora of churches and museums that you may have missed out on earlier in your trip, they are breathtakingly beautiful and rich in history. The city of Venice has a couple of passes that bundle a few options together so that you can visit more and save money at the same time. These passes also help you skip the line and gain priority access, hence saving you time and energy.

 

Your Last Day in Venice

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel, in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

 

Day 1 in Lucerne

Welcome to Lucerne! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do.

Once you arrive in town, start your exploration at the Old Town, a maze of cobblestone alleys lined with brightly frescoed facades. Follow the old cobbled streets in the Old Town of Lucerne, and get lost amongst the many shops, fountains, restaurants and the historic painted buildings. The four main squares of the Old Town are Mühlenplatz, Weinmarkt, Hirschenplatz and Kornmarkt.

Most of Old Town is spread across the north bank of River Reuss. On the south bank is the 17th century baroque style Jesuit Church of Saint Francis Xavier, identified by its dull-green twin onion domes. The flower-lined 14th century wooden Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) runs diagonally across the river and is the most well-known symbol of Lucerne. The Kapellbrücke is the oldest wooden bridge in Europe and is full of history. As you stroll along the bridge and past the water tower, you can view the many paintings on the gables inside the bridge, which were painted by Hans Heinrich Wägmann in the 17th-18th century. Many of these paintings and the bridge were destroyed after a fire in 1993, but have since been reconstructed. You can also capture a gorgeous view of the town of Lucerne as well as a scenic view of Lake Lucerne and the Swiss Alps.

Further down the river is Lucerne`s second covered wooden footbridge, the Spreuer Brudge or Mill Bridge, built in 1408. The bridge, in the city`s lower end, connected the mills to the baker`s quarter. Triangular panels on the roof depict a macabre series of paintings that show grinning skeletons in everyday human scenes. Cross over the bridge and stop in one of the charming al fresco riverside cafes. Make sure to try some delicious handmade chocolates and the variety of specialty cheeses you`ll encounter along the way.

Check out the brick-roofed Rathaus, the 17th-century town hall that now houses its own brewery and restaurant in the basement. Continue on and check out the Lion Memorial, a dying lion is carved into a sandstone rock rising above a pond of water, commemorating the Swiss guards who fell fighting for King Louis XVI in 1792 during the French Revolution. Check out the Glacier Garden found next to the Lyon monument which displays natural remnants from the Ice Age 20,000 years ago.

In the evening, enjoy an atmospheric dinner by the riverside, many restaurants offer both indoor and al fresco seating.

 

Day 2 in Lucerne

Start off your day with a cruise of the beautiful Lake Lucerne. Sit back and relax while you cruise past the stunning views of Switzerland. The average trip is about an hour-long and includes an audio guide of the main sights, as well as amazing views of the Alps. For something more active, you may want to explore Lake Lucerne by paddle boat and make your own way around the Lake.

After the cruise, stroll and people-watch along the active waterfront promenade. When the weather is warm, the stretch is full of young people rollerblading and old men playing pétanque (an age-old ball game). Find a restaurant in the area to enjoy some lunch and make sure to enjoy the cheese fondue, a must try while in Switzerland!

Continue along the promenade towards the Swiss Museum of Transport. The museum traces the history of road, rail, water and air navigation through simulators and multimedia displays. Don`t miss the vintage locomotives on display among the numerous exhibits. There is a film theater and a planetarium within the museum complex, but the highlight for kids and the kids at heart is the Chocolate Adventure. The interactive ride explains the history and making of chocolate through visuals, smells and tastings. Grab a snack at the in-house restaurant and take it with you for a picnic across the street at the beautiful lakeside park.

As evening approaches head back into Old Town to enjoy one of the lively cafes or restaurants in town. You may want to take in the live music and traditional folk performances, complete with yodelers, alphorn players and other Swiss performances. And end your night with a characteristically Swiss dessert, a cheese platter. It features different cuts of cheese paired with relish, jelly, walnut, fig, mustard and bread, and can be found on almost every menu in town.

 

Day 3 in Lucerne

On your last day in Lucerne, grab your comfortable shoes and take a day trip up the mountain to Mount Pilatus for a breathtaking view of the Swiss Alps and Lake Lucerne. Towering over Lucerne at 6,995 ft, Mount Pilatus has the world`s steepest cogwheel railway. Board the 126-year-old cogwheel rail that chugs up the mountainside at a steep angle, sometimes as sharp as 48 degrees, and operates from May to November. The train gently rolls up the mountain at 6 miles/hr and rolls through tunnels piercing straight through the rock face.

Another option to the top of Mount Pilatus is by gondola from Kriens through Krienseregg to Fräkmüntegg. The ride is a peaceful stretch complete with pristine views of the Mount Pilatus and the luscious green meadows and wildlife below. The final leg up from Fräkmüntegg to Pilatus Kulm by aerial cableway is the most exciting, but maybe not for the faint hearted. The total journey up to the mountain station is about 30 minutes.

When you arrive at the top, be prepared for the most spectacular views as soon as you step outside. From here, it is a 10-minute climb to the summit of the Esel (the central peak, but not the highest). And from Pilatus-Kulm, it is a 30 minute trek to the Tomlishorn, the highest peak of the mountain. The trip can also be combined with various types of sports or hiking tours

In summer, indulge your active side at the Rope Park or the Toboggan Run. Grab a bite at the upscale Queen Victoria restaurant at Hotel Pilatus-Kulm or the self-service restaurant with a sun terrace at the Hotel Bellevue. There`s usually a choice of set meals. The Panoramic Gallery linking the two hotels features a covered roof and is a good place to stop for breathtaking views of the mighty Alps.

On your last evening in Lucerne check out the Grand Casino, a perfect spot to try your luck in poker, roulette or blackjack. Or if you are looking for something a bit more cultural, and if you speak German, you can enjoy a performance at the Stadttheater. And after dark, the Old Town is a great spot to be with various pubs and cafes to enjoy.

 

Additional Days in Lucerne

Should you be able to spend additional days in Lucerne we recommend a day trip to the World Heritage-listed Jungfraujoch, located 50 miles from Lucerne, this is known as the Top or Europe and is home to the highest railroad station on the continent at 11,332 ft. A perfect way to enjoy this stunning Alpine scenery is on the Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Day Trip. The journey would begin with a drive through the breathtaking scenery of the Bernese Oberland and a cogwheel train trip up to the Jungfraujoch, passing through the mountain pass of Kleine Scheidegg, beneath the famous Eiger North Face. While on the summit, you can stop to explore the Ice Palace and enjoy the stunning views from the Sphinx Observation Terrace.

 

Your Last Day in Lucerne

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

 

Day 1 in Munich

Welcome to Munich, the capital of Bavaria! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much to do in Munich!

Begin the day walking around the Altstadt (OldTown). Here, the somber Frauenkirche and its copper domed twin towers are a symbol of the city; and inside the church you will find the monumental black marble tomb of Emperor Ludwig IV of Bavaria. Nearby, you may also want to visit the Michaelskirche (St. Michael's Church) before heading to Marienplatz, the most famous square in Munich. In the center of the square rises the Mariensäule, a large column topped with a gilded statue of the Virgin Mary. To the north is the neo-Gothic Neues Rathaus (New City Hall) whose famous Glockenspiel, a 100 year old carillon, performs a miniature tournament at 11am and 12pm (also 5pm in summer) to the delight of visitors. Be sure to see the Altes Rathaus (Old City Hall) as well before proceeding to the Peterskirche with its impressive Gothic façade and richly decorated interior.

Next, take a break at the Viktualienmarkt, the city's market, renowned for its diversity and size. Have a beer and a bite to eat before continuing to the Gothic Heiliggeist (Holy Ghost) Church. Afterwards, proceed north to Max-Joesph-Platz and the Residenz, official home of Bavarian rulers until 1918, with its lavish courtyards, apartments, and museums that include the Residenz Museum, the Treasure House of the Residenz, and the rococo Cuvilliés Theater. To the west, be sure to see the Feldherrnhalle, an open air loggia constructed as a tribute to the Bavarian army (and later used as a Nazi rallying point) as well as the Theatinerkirche (Church of St.Kajetan), completed in 1690 and containing the tombs of many of the Wittelsbachs. Finally, grab a coffee while you enjoy the panorama of the Odeonsplatz and Hofgarten before admiring more of Munich's famous squares including Wittelsbacher-Platz, Maximiliansplatz, Karolinenplatz and Königsplatz. At Königsplatz, you can catch a tram to Schloss Nymphenburg, summer palace of Munich's longest ruling family, the Wittelsbachs. The ornately decorated palace with its adjacent museums and beautifully landscaped grounds make a trip here worthwhile.

As evening approaches, make your way to the Platzl quarter where you will find nighttime entertainment, restaurants and the landmark Hofbräuhaus, Munich's most popular beer hall, which has been around since 1644. Enjoy beers, schweinshaxn (roasted pork knuckle), sauerkraut and oompah music with locals and tourists alike.

 

Day 2 in Munich

Wake up early today and head to Deutsches Museum. Opened in 1925, it is the largest scientific and technological museum of its kind in the world with incredible exhibits marking important milestones over the past 100 years. After your visit, enjoy lunch and some shopping along Maximilianstrasse or Kaufingerstrasse before heading to the Museumsviertel (Museum Quarter).

As a city of art and culture, Munich has more museums than any other city in Germany. You could spend days exploring the four art museums that make up the Museum Quarter, also called the Kunstareal. All four are worth visiting, but the enormous Alte Pinakothek, featuring a world class collection of Old Masters, is a must see. The smaller Neue Pinakothek displays works from the 19th century while the Pinakothek der Moderne and Museum Brandhorst are dedicated to 20th century art. Just south of the Museumsviertel, in the classically inspired Königsplatz, you will find the impressive, Doric-inspired Propyläen monument as well as the Antikensammlungen and Glyptothek with their Greek and Roman artifacts. If antiquities aren't your thing, then try the Lenbachhaus with its outstanding collection of late 19th and early 20th century German art. On Saturdays, you can visit all three Pinakotheks (Alte, Neue, der Moderne), Museum Brandhorst, and Schack-Galerie for 1€. On Sundays, entry to the Glyptothek, Antikensammlungen, and the Bayerisches Nationalmuseum is only 1€.

Later, make your way to the Schwabing area, former home to novelists, poets and playwrights. Although it has lost most of its distinctive charm, it is still a lovely place for a stroll on your way to the Englischer Garten. This is Munich's most famous park and its Chinesischer Turm (Chinese Tower) beer garden is the second largest beer garden in Munich. Enjoy a ride by horse-drawn carriage through the park (for hire at the entrance) then have a seat on one of the beer garden benches and feast on traditional food and beer.

 

Day 3 in Munich

Today, we recommend you visit the fairytale castles of Neuschwanstein and Linderhof with our 'Royal Castles of Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Day Tour from Munich.' Admire the lush landscape of the Bavarian Alps as you journey to Linderhof, Ludwig's rococo-style hunting lodge. Then, continue to Neuschwanstein with its shimmering white turrets that were the inspiration for Disney's Sleeping Beauty castle. Neuschwanstein Castle was commissioned as the private retreat for Ludwig II of Bavaria with interiors inspired by the operas of Richard Wagner, to whom the king dedicated the castle. Despite the medieval motif of the decor, the castle was actually outfitted with the latest technology of the time including running water and central heating. Later, enjoy free time in nearby Hohenschwangau village for lunch and to explore Neuschwanstein's grounds, and take an optional castle tour.

After a full day of sightseeing, spend your final night in Munich amid the music and merriment of your favorite bier halle!

 

Additional Days in Munich

Should you be able to spend additional days in Munich then we recommend a trip to Olympiapark, site of the 1972 Olympics. Today, the park is a multiuse complex hosting sporting events, concerts and more. A ride up OlympiaTower (the fastest elevator on the European continent) offers extraordinary views over the city and all the way to the Alps. And if you like the luxury brand BMW (Bavarian Motor Works), then be sure to visit BMW Welt, the car maker's showroom, museum and factory that is located here.

That Munich was the birthplace of the Nazi movement is a difficult truth; however, trips to the Berchtesgaden Eagle's Nest, Hitler's mountain retreat and southern headquarters of the Nazi party, as well as the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site are both heartbreaking and historically educational. Although its reputation is tainted by its association with the Nazis, Berchtesgaden is one of the most idyllic towns in the Bavarian Alps. Unfortunately, Dachau, which was a pretty little artists' community before Hitler and the Holocaust, is now mainly visited as a horrific symbol of the Nazi Regime.

Additionally, you can admire the countryside, castles and villages of Germany's iconic Romantic Road, the famously picturesque route through Bavaria's mountains and forests. Be sure to check our optional sightseeing tours for availability.

 

Your Last Day in Munich

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel, in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

Itinerary: Germany, Czech Republic, Austria & Hungary in 11 days - Capitals of Central Europe - CHARM BY BUS

Day 1: US - Night on board

Arrive at your US departure airport ready to board a flight to Berlin, the Germany capital. Night on board.* * If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

Day 2: Berlin

Touch down in Berlin, the stylish and historic German capital. Get settled at the hotel and, if time allows, get to know the city at your leisure. Overnight stay in Berlin.

Day 3: Berlin

Tuck into a hearty German breakfast at the hotel and set off on an exciting panoramic city tour of East and West Berlin, to uncover the history and sights of the capital! Take an iconic photo at the majestic Brandenburg Gate, visit the poignant Holocaust Memorial and stroll along the leafy Unter den Linden Avenue. Discover Museum Island, the Red Town Hall, the Nikolai Quarter. Trace the turbulent history of the city at Checkpoint Charlie and see the fragmented remains of the Berlin Wall, noticing the contrasts between the different sides of the city. See the Forum of Culture and the idyllic Tiergarten Park. Potsdamer Platz shows you a modern side of the city before you spend the remainder of the day at your leisure. It's time for a well-deserved German beer after a day of sightseeing! Overnight stay in Berlin.

Day 4: Berlin

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a day exploring Berlin at your leisure. Why not visit the brilliant amazing cultural treasures at Museum Island or spend the day exploring the flower gardens of the Tiergarten. Overnight stay in Berlin.

Day 5: Berlin - Prague

Breakfast at the hotel. Self-transfer to the bus station to catch a shared bus to the Czech capital of Prague, a journey of around 5 hours. Arrive in Prague, known for its fairytale old town, lively nightlife and nicknamed the 'City of a Hundred Spires'. Self-transfer to the hotel and spend the remainder of the day exploring at your leisure. Alternatively, enjoy an optional excursion to Kozel Brewery, the home of the most famous Czech beer! Overnight stay in Prague

Day 6: Prague

Breakfast at the hotel. Set off on a city tour of Prague, nicknamed the 'Golden City'. See the famous Powder Tower and explore the Old Town. Reach Old Town Square home to the famous Astronomical Clock, one of the most popular sights in Prague, and the Church of Our Lady Before Tyn. Finish the tour at the iconic Charles Bridge. The remainder of the day is free at your leisure to explore the sights and sample the local cuisine at your own pace. Overnight stay in Prague.

Day 7: Prague - Vienna

After breakfast at the hotel self-transfer to the bus station to catch a shared bus to Vienna, a journey of around 4.5 hours. Travel through the beautiful landscapes of Bohemia and Moravia towards Austria and its capital, Vienna. Arrive in Vienna, an imperial city famed for its artistic legacy and for being the home town of Mozart and Beethoven. Self-transfer to the hotel and spend the remainder of the day exploring at your leisure. We recommend heading to the historic centre to enjoy the charming atmosphere. During the summer the riverbanks come alive with lively bars and restaurants, so be sure to check this out if the weather is pleasant. Overnight stay in Vienna.

Day 8: Vienna

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a day at your leisure, soaking up the cultural sights of Vienna at your leisure. Overnight stay in Vienna

Day 9: Vienna - Budapest

Breakfast at the hotel. Catch a shared bus this morning to travel to Budapest, the capital of Hungary, a journey of around 3 hours. After enjoying the changing landscapes of the Danube Delta arrive in Budapest and self-transfer to the hotel. The city is famously divided in two by the River Danube Buda and Pest, each with its own distinctive atmosphere. Overnight stay in Budapest

Day 10: Budapest

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, set off on an enthralling guided tour of Budapest, beginning with Heroes Square, the largest and most impressive in the city and an emblem of Pest's Golden Era. Next, see the National Opera Theatre and the amazing Parliament building, a true icon of the city on the banks of the Danube. Continue the tour across the river, in the Castle District, where you can enjoy the sweeping views from Castle Hill and the amazing architecture of the Fisherman's Bastion. Cross Margaret Bridge to visit the Király Baths before ending the tour at the oldest and most photographed bridge in the city, the glorious Chain Bridge. Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure. Overnight stay in Budapest.

Day 11: Budapest

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a day at your leisure in Budapest. Why not take in the views from Fisherman's Bastion or stroll along the riverside promenade. Overnight stay in Budapest.

Day 12: Budapest - US

Breakfast at the hotel. It's time to bring your journey through Central Europe to an end. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for a flight back to the US. Arrive in the US and end your trip.

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