Highlights of Eastern Europe

Begin your adventure in the enchanting city of Krakow, Poland, where medieval charm and vibrant culture await. After settling into your centrally located hotel (or similar), join your tour leader and fellow travelers for a welcome meeting in the evening. Take the opportunity to explore the city’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, marvel at the architectural splendor of Saint Mary’s Church, the historic Jagiellonian University, and the regal Wawel Castle and Cathedral. Enjoy a taste of local cuisine and perhaps sample traditional Polish dumplings or homemade vodkas in one of Krakow’s lively restaurants or bars.

Start your day with a guided stroll through Krakow’s captivating Old Quarter, soaking in the city’s timeless ambiance. The rest of the day is yours to explore: wander the storied streets of the Kazimierz Jewish district, visit the evocative Old Synagogue and Museum of Jewish Life, or embark on a moving excursion to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial. Alternatively, descend into the remarkable Wieliczka Salt Mine, a subterranean marvel adorned with chapels and salt sculptures. Enjoy the freedom to discover Krakow’s treasures at your own pace, with optional excursions available.

Leave the historic streets of Krakow behind as you journey south for an exhilarating rafting adventure through the dramatic Dunajec River Gorge, surrounded by the pristine wilderness of Pieniny National Park. After soaking up the natural beauty and spotting local wildlife, continue to Slovakia to explore the majestic ruins of Spis Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched high above the countryside. Your day concludes in the scenic mountain resort of Tatranska Lomnica (or similar), nestled in the heart of the High Tatras, where you’ll unwind amid breathtaking alpine vistas.

Embark on a full-day trek through the awe-inspiring Tatra Mountains, starting from Biela Voda. Hike to the emerald waters of Green Lake, with the option to continue to the serene Great White Lake, surrounded by rugged peaks and alpine meadows. For a gentler pace, take a scenic train ride to Lake Strbske and enjoy a leisurely walk along its tranquil shores. Return to your comfortable accommodation in Tatranska Lomnica (or similar) for a restful evening after a day immersed in nature.

Travel by private coach through the picturesque Slovak countryside, pausing at the UNESCO-listed village of Vlkolinec, renowned for its charming timber houses and folk architecture. Continue to Banska Bystrica, a vibrant city set along the Hron River. After checking into your hotel (or similar), join your guide for an orientation walk, exploring the lively main square and the historic city castle. Discover the city’s pivotal role in Slovak history and savor local culinary delights in the evening.

Begin your day with a visit to the remarkable Hronsek Wooden Church, a masterpiece of carpentry and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to the medieval town of Banska Stiavnica, where you’ll don a miner’s helmet and descend into the open-air mining museum for a glimpse into the region’s industrious past. Journey onward to the quaint wine-making village of Stara Hora, with its unique wine cellars dotting the hillsides. After a day of discovery, arrive in Budapest, Hungary’s dazzling capital, and settle into your hotel (or similar) for the night.

Awaken in Budapest, a city that straddles the majestic Danube. Set out on a guided walking tour, taking in the city’s most iconic landmarks: the grand Basilica of Saint Stephen, the imposing Parliament, and the legendary Chain Bridge. Cross into the historic Buda district to explore Castle Hill, the fairytale Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Royal Palace. The afternoon is yours to relax in a thermal bath, cruise the Danube, or perhaps visit the artistic enclave of Szentendre. Return to your comfortable hotel (or similar) for a restful night.

Enjoy a full day at leisure in Budapest, with the freedom to revisit your favorite sights or discover new corners of the city. Ride the funicular up to Buda Castle for panoramic views, wander the ramparts of Fisherman’s Bastion, or indulge in the city’s culinary delights such as langos and chimney cake. Your centrally located hotel (or similar) provides the perfect base for further exploration and relaxation.

Bid farewell to Budapest as you travel to Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the city’s rich history with a guided walk through the enchanting Old Town, passing by Michael’s Gate, the lively Main Square, the elegant Primate’s Palace, and the impressive Cathedral of Saint Martin. Marvel at the cityscape from the futuristic UFO Bridge before settling into your Bratislava hotel (or similar) for the evening.

Travel by train to the imperial city of Vienna, Austria’s elegant capital. Join your guide for a walking tour that unveils the city’s grandest sights, from the bustling Karlsplatz and Heroes Square to the opulent Hofburg Palace, Imperial Treasury, and National Library. Admire the Spanish Riding School, the soaring spires of Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, and the world-renowned Vienna State Opera. After the tour, enjoy free time to explore Vienna’s museums, coffee houses, or return to Bratislava at your leisure, perhaps by scenic boat along the Danube.

Journey north into the Czech Republic, stopping to explore the enchanting Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its romantic gardens and the fairytale Chateau Lednice. Continue to the charming town of Mikulov, nestled in the heart of Moravia’s wine country. Sample local vintages during a wine tasting and discover the town’s rich heritage on a guided walk through its picturesque old town. Unwind in your welcoming hotel (or similar) amid the rolling vineyards.

Begin your day with a visit to Mikulov’s historic Jewish cemetery, one of the most significant in South Moravia. Spend the afternoon exploring the town at your own pace: tour the stately Mikulov Castle and its expansive gardens, or climb Holy Hill for panoramic views over the vineyards and rooftops. Enjoy another night in your comfortable Mikulov hotel (or similar), savoring the region’s tranquil atmosphere.

Travel by train to the magical city of Prague, where centuries of history are etched into every corner. Settle into your centrally located hotel (or similar) before embarking on a guided city tour. Stroll through the atmospheric Old Town Square, admire the intricate Astronomical Clock, and cross the iconic Charles Bridge. Explore the historic Prague Ghetto, the evocative Jewish Cemetery, and the grand Hradcany district, home to the majestic Prague Castle.

Enjoy a day of independent exploration in Prague. Venture to the storied Konopiste Castle, once the residence of Archduke Ferdinand, or cruise the tranquil waters of the Vltava River. Delve into the city’s Cold War past at the Bunker Museum or attend a classical concert in one of Prague’s historic churches. Savor traditional Czech cuisine and local beer in a cozy restaurant before returning to your hotel (or similar) for your final night.

Your unforgettable journey through Central and Eastern Europe concludes in Prague. After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow travelers and depart at your leisure, with convenient luggage storage available for those with later flights.