Itinerary at a Glance
DAY 1: U.S.A. - EUROPE
The adventure to four of Europe's intriguing captial cities has begun
The day of departure has arrived. Keep your departure instructions handy, for they will guide you through the check-in process before your overnight flight across the Atlantic Ocean.
DAY 2: HUNGARY
Budapest
Upon arrival at Budapest Airport, meet your tour manager for the transfer to your hotel. After having a chance to freshen up and rest a little, set out on foot or by tram for an introduction to Hungary's capital, which is sprawled over both banks of the Danube River. Pest, on the east bank, is spread over a flat area that is clearly divided into neighborhoods and business districts. In complete contrast, Buda, on the west bank, is hilly and mysterious with no clear organization. A walk along the Danube River Promenade is a pleasant way to create your first impressions of Budapest. Back at the hotel, get to know your fellow tour participants during a 'Welcome/Get Acquainted' dinner. (Dinner)
DAY 3: HUNGARY
Budapest
Open the day with sightseeing of both Buda and Pest. In Buda, your local guide introduces you to the Castle Hill, considered the most beautiful section of the city with its medieval buildings and much-photographed Fisherman's Bastion. In Belvaros, the inner city and historic center of Pest, your guide points out the romantic concert hall, the Vigado, and Gresham Palace, a splendid example of Art Nouveau. After the city tour, you may want to join the optional 'Parliament Visit' excursion or take the opportunity to explore Budapest on your own. If you need a break from the bustling city, the large park on Margaret Island, in the middle of the Danube River, provides a peaceful retreat. As one choice for your independent dinner, consider the optional 'Danube Dinner Cruise' with music and champagne. (Breakfast)
DAY 4: HUNGARY - SLOVAKIA - AUSTRIA
Györ - Bratislava - Vienna
Board the motor coach to your first stop this morning in the ancient city of Györ, an historic city which played a strategic role against Turkey in the 13th century. From Györ, it's on to Bratislava, modern capital of Slovakia. This city was oringinally known as Pressburg and from 1541 to 1784 it was the capital of Hungary. Although this city is experiencing dynamic development, Bratislava continues to offer a rich cultural experience. Your independent time in Bratislava can be spent exploring the charming old town, visiting one of the many excellent museums, or walking up to the hilltop castle. Your final destination for today is Vienna, capital of the Austrian Empire. The Austrian Hapsburg Dynasty settled here in 1278 and ruled for centuries until 1919, building exquisite palaces and encouraging the arts. Strauss, Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms, and Schubert were amoung the great composers drawn to Vienna, which became known as the center of classical music. This evening the included dinner will be at a restaurant near your Vienna hotel. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 5: AUSTRIA
Vienna
This morning features a guided tour of Vienna with highlights including Saint Stephan's Cathedral and the Opera House, two of the city's most beloved landmakrs. The rest of the day is free to fulfill personal interests, whether it be coffee and Sachertorte (the signature cake of Vienna) at a sidewalk café or a closer study of one of the many lavish palaces in Vienna. The Hofburg (Imperial Palace) houses the crown jewels, Belvedere Palace displays 19th and 20th century art, and the Schönbrunn Palace offers guided tours of its ornate apartments. Your independent dinner tonight allows for a flexible schedule. If you have heard of the infamous wine taverns just outside Vienna, you will want to come along on the optional 'Vienna Woods & Heuriger' excursion, serving up a simple menu of local favorites with young wine and a convivial atmosphere. (Breakfast).
DAY 6: AUSTRIA
Vienna
A full day in Vienna provides the opportunity to see more of the fascinating landmarks. Take a leisurely stroll along the Ringstrasse, the boulevard which encircles the heart of town, to view historic buildings such as the Parliament, University, Burgtheater and Freud Museum. Frolic in the Prater amusement park with a ride on the Giant Wheel. Shop the fashionable boutiques surrounding the Saint Stephan's Cathedral square. Or, immerse yourself inside one of the museums in the highly-touted Museumsquartier (MQ). For exploration of Vienna's surroungings, come along on the full-day 'Melk Abbey & Dürnstein' optional excursion. During your independent dinner this evening, be adventurous in sampling the Austrian cuisine. (Breakfast)
DAY 7: CZECH REPUBLIC
Ceskı Krumlov - Prague
Travel through northern Austria and cross the border into the Czech Republic. An extended stop in Ceskı Krumlov provides an opportunity to explore this curious village. Ceskı Krumlov is uniquely located on a tight S curve of the Vltava River. One curve hugs the old town with its colorful 18th century buildings. The other curve wraps around an impressive castle. Originally, in the 13th century, a Gothic castle was built. In the 16th century the site was rebuilt in Renaissance style. Baroque and Rococo styles have since been added during further reconstruction. The main attraction is the Baroque theatre, one of the most well-preserved of its kind. The afternoon drive takes you north through the Czech Republic to Prague, where you will arrive in time for dinner at the hotel. (Breakfast, Dinner).
DAY 8: CZECH REPUBLIC
Prague
Meet your local guide for a sightseeing tour of beautiful Staromestské Námestí, probably the most photgraphed square in the city; the Old Town Hall; and the Church of St. Nicholas in the Little Quarter (Malá Strana). During free time, consider taking a stroll through the enchanting cobbled streets and alleyways of Malá Strana, from the artists' quarter to the Vltava (Moldau) River and the spectacular Charles Bridge. From higher banks across the river, the enormous Prague Castle overlooks the city, contributing to the mysterious atmosphere that is inescapable in Prague. If you decide to visit Prague Castle, it will capture your attention for hours with its Royal Gardens, several museums, beautiful St. Vitus Cathedral and the chapel where good King Wenceslas rests. Dinner tonight is on your own. The food in Prague's restaurants is good and plentiful. Or, you may wish to join your tour manager for the evening optional 'Czech Folklore Show & Dinner'. (Breakfast)
DAY 9: EUROPE - U.S.A.
Daytime flight back to the U.S.A.
This morning, transfer to Prague Airport for the return flight home. If you made arrangements at time of booking to extend your stay in Prague, your hotel can assist with further exploration of this enchanting city and other nearby points of interest, such as Karlstejn Castle or the spa town of Karlovy Vary (also known as Carlsbad). When you do return home, you are sure to take with you a wealth of history, sights and experiences. (Breakfast)
