Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
Day 2 Arrival in Munich, Germany
Time to rest or to start exploring the Bavarian capital. At 6 p.m. meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)
Day 3 Munich–Prague, Czech Republic
An orientation tour of Germany’s “secret capital” features the Olympic Stadium, 1,000-foot-high Television Tower, and Marienplatz in the historic heart of the city. Later, head for the Czech border in the Bohemian Forest and travel to Prague, the “Golden City.” How about an optional Czech folklore show tonight? (BB,D)
Day 4 Prague
Morning sightseeing with a Local Guide reveals why Prague is considered one of Europe’s most attractive capitals. See 1,000-year-old Hradcany Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral
(on Sundays no inside guiding permitted), the Old Town, the Jewish ghetto, and the Astronomical Clock, once the envy of all Europe. Afternoon at leisure; you may want to mix with the locals in Wenceslaus Square or relax at an outdoor restaurant. This evening why not join an optional dinner outing? (BB)
Day 5 Prague–Bratislava, Slovakia–Budapest, Hungary
Into Moravia where Napoleon established his headquarters during the Battle of Austerlitz. Around lunchtime you reach Bratislava, the economic and political center of Slovakia. Afterwards, follow the course of the Danube River to Budapest. (BB,D)
Day 6 Budapest
Your Local Guide takes your through Eastern Europe's most cosmopolitan city. See elegant Andrassy Avenue, the Thermal Baths, and the world's second-largest Jewish Synagogue. From the lacy lookout towers of Fishermen’s Bastion enjoy a panoramic view of the sprawling city. Then visit the 13th-century Matthias Coronation Church and Heroes’ Square. Afternoon at leisure. Tonight a delectable optional Hungarian specialty dinner can be arranged. (BB)
Day 7 Budapest–Vienna, Austria
This morning drive through the Hungarian plains to Vienna, once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire. Meet your Local Guide and start your afternoon sightseeing with vistas of Prater Park with its giant Ferris wheel, and the United Nations City on the banks of the Danube River. Then drive along Ring Boulevard, pass the State Opera House, the Jewish quarter, and stop at the Hofburg Palace, winter residence of the Austrian Imperial family. Marvel at the impressive courtyards and famous Heldenplatz and visit awesome St. Stephen's Cathedral. An optional excursions to the wine village of Grinzing is available. (BB)
Day 8 At Leisure in Vienna
A whole day at leisure gives you the opportunity to join exciting optional excursions, such as the Vienna Woods, historic Schönbrunn Palace, a concert, or just explore this magnificent city on your own. (BB)
Day 9 Vienna–Melk–Salzburg
A scenic day! From Krems enjoy a leisurely Danube Cruise to Weissenkirchen. Continue by coach along the Danube to historic Melk. No landscape is more typically Austrian than the Sound of Music lakeland of the Salzkammergut. Pass lovely Lake Wolfgang on your way via Bad Ischl to Salzburg. (BB,D)
Day 10 Salzburg–Munich, Germany
A pleasant stroll with a Local Guide takes you through the historical center. Admire exquisite Mirabell Gardens, the Great Festival Hall, St. Peter's Churchard, and the monumental Domplatz. Also visit Mozart’s birthplace in the charming Getreidegasse. A comfortable drive brings you back to Munich. Tonight enjoy a farewell dinner and, as a finale to this exciting vacation, you may want to enjoy a stein of beer at the famous Hofbräuhaus. (BB,D)
Day 11
Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (BB)
