Germany-Poland-Czech-Austria-Hungary
Updated: Feb 23, 2021
Reserve through the month of November 2020 for $1!
My favorite travel partner has just announced this incredible sale on small group travel for 2021! Through November 2020, you can reserve your spot on a dream trip for only US$1; one dollar gives you something to look forward to in 2021. I’m highlighting sample itineraries in this blog, but won’t be able to cover the HUNDREDS of options. If you have a travel wish, contact me for details!
Why I love this travel operator …
SMALL GROUPS
Join a small group of like-minded travelers that, like you, are eager to safely and confidently experience all the things that make our world worth exploring.
SUPPORTING LOCAL COMMUNITIES
They have always created their tours by building meaningful relationships with local communities, directly benefiting the people and places they visit.
BOOK AND TRAVEL WITH CONFIDENCE
They have measures in place to help keep you safe from the moment you book to the moment you (reluctantly) head home, earning a badge from the World Travel and Tourism Council. WTTC’s Safe Travels Protocols
FLEXIBILITY, FREEDOM AND FUN
No matter the Travel Style, their tours balance well-planned itineraries with the flexibility to do your own thing and make the experience your own.
LOCALLY-BASED GUIDES
They don’t have tour guides — they have Chief Experience Officers. And they are all locally based, meaning they know the area you’re exploring like the back of their well-traveled hand.
REGENERATIVE TRAVEL
When you travel with them, you experience first-hand their commitment to making travel a force for good is in everything they do.
DAY 1: BERLIN
Arrive at any time. We recommend arriving a day or two early to fully explore this world-renowned city. Meet your trip leader and fellow travelers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards.
Optional Activities:
East Side Gallery Along Berlin Wall, free; The very name Berlin conjures images of the famous Berlin Wall. Two sections of the original structure still remain on display; the East Side Gallery, where artists have decorated the remaining section of the wall, and the Berlin Wall Memorial (Gedenkstatte Berliner Mauer). View these remnants of history that once divided east from west.
Checkpoint Charlie Museum, 13EUR/person: Down the street from the Berlin Wall is the Haus am Checkpoint Charlie, a museum that documents the history of the wall, and interestingly, many of the different ways people tried to escape. From hot air balloons to one-man submarines, learn about the tenacity and creativity used by those desperate to cross from the east to western side.
Judisches Museum, 8EUR/person: The Judisches Museum is one of the largest Jewish museums in Europe. See how architect Daniel Libeskind’s design evokes three important elements of the past two centuries; the intellectual, economic and cultural contributions of Jewish citizens in Berlin, the reality of the Holocaust, and the recognition of their absence from Berlin (and beyond) following the Second World War. See evocative collections and displays.
Television Tower (Fernsehturm), 13-23EUR/person: For an amazing view of Berlin, visit the famous Berlin Television Tower. Bring your camera and take panoramic photos from the viewing room, then grab a drink and snack at the cafe located 203m (666 ft) above ground.
Brandenburg Gate, free: The Brandenburg Gate is a spot of great historical significance. Witness the spot where hundreds of thousands of people were finally able to cross from the east side to the west after the fall of the wall. Walk the cobblestones of the surrounding Pariser Platz and mingle with locals who continue to gather here to see stage shows and celebrate public events.
The Berlin Wall Memorial, free: Learn about the history of the “Iron Curtain,” the physical, political and emotional barrier that once separated Berlin under the Communist Eastern Bloc and their neighbors to the west. At Berlin Wall Memorial (Gedenkstatte Berliner Mauer), see a complete section of the wall, and look from the east side to see the remains of an electric fence in the so-called “death strip.” Discover the stories of those who died trying to escape to the freedom of West Berlin.
Accommodation: Hotel Ibis Berlin Ostbahnhof (or similar)
DAY 2: BERLIN
Explore this amazing city; Berlin is an amazing city with tangible historical importance and a melting pot of different cultures and flavors. Opt to visit the East Side Gallery, Checkpoint Charlie, world-class museums, or the Berlin Television Tower for a sweeping view of the area.
Optional Activities:
East Side Gallery Along Berlin Wall, free; The very name Berlin conjures images of the famous Berlin Wall. Two sections of the original structure still remain on display; the East Side Gallery, where artists have decorated the remaining section of the wall, and the Berlin Wall Memorial (Gedenkstatte Berliner Mauer). View these remnants of history that once divided east from west.
Checkpoint Charlie Museum, 13EUR/person: Down the street from the Berlin Wall is the Haus am Checkpoint Charlie, a museum that documents the history of the wall, and interestingly, many of the different ways people tried to escape. From hot air balloons to one-man submarines, learn about the tenacity and creativity used by those desperate to cross from the east to western side.
Judisches Museum, 8EUR/person: The Judisches Museum is one of the largest Jewish museums in Europe. See how architect Daniel Libeskind’s design evokes three important elements of the past two centuries; the intellectual, economic and cultural contributions of Jewish citizens in Berlin, the reality of the Holocaust, and the recognition of their absence from Berlin (and beyond) following the Second World War. See evocative collections and displays.
Television Tower (Fernsehturm), 13-23EUR/person: For an amazing view of Berlin, visit the famous Berlin Television Tower. Bring your camera and take panoramic photos from the viewing room, then grab a drink and snack at the cafe located 203m (666 ft) above ground.
Brandenburg Gate, free: The Brandenburg Gate is a spot of great historical significance. Witness the spot where hundreds of thousands of people were finally able to cross from the east side to the west after the fall of the wall. Walk the cobblestones of the surrounding Pariser Platz and mingle with locals who continue to gather here to see stage shows and celebrate public events.
The Berlin Wall Memorial, free: Learn about the history of the “Iron Curtain,” the physical, political and emotional barrier that once separated Berlin under the Communist Eastern Bloc and their neighbors to the west. At Berlin Wall Memorial (Gedenkstatte Berliner Mauer), see a complete section of the wall, and look from the east side to see the remains of an electric fence in the so-called “death strip.” Discover the stories of those who died trying to escape to the freedom of West Berlin.
Pergamon Museum, 12EUR/person: Located in Berlin’s Museum Island, the Pergamonmuseum holds an impressive collection of art and objects from Greek and Roman antiquity, the ancient Near East (covering Mesopotamia, Syria and Anatolia) and the Museum of Islamic Art. Please note that the Pergamon Altar, its most visited exhibit, is closed for renovations until 2023.
Schloss Charlottenburg, 10EUR/person: Named after Sophie Charlotte, the first Queen consort of Prussia, the Schloss Charlottenburg is one of the few grand structures of Berlin which largely escaped damage during World War II. Visit the palace’s rococo ballroom, the Silver Vault, the exotic Orangery and its impressive gardens, designed by the same royal gardeners who worked on the palace of Versailles.
Accommodation: Hotel Ibis Berlin Ostbahnhof (or similar)
DAY 3: BERLIN/KRAKOW
Travel to Krakow, Poland’s cultural hub. Watch the scenery go by as you journey to Krakòw. En route, stop by the Pławniowice Palace grounds, one of the best maintained in Silesia. With free time in Krakòw, opt to explore the different neighborhoods like the Jewish section and main square. Dip into a local milk bar for a real Polish meal.
Accommodation: Globtroter (or similar)
DAY 4: KRAKOW
Visit Auschwitz for a sobering look at the region’s history. One of history’s most horrific crimes, Auschwitz-Birkenau. The site of this former Nazi concentration camp embodies terror, tragedy, inhumanity and the survival of will. Today the museum stands testament to the inconceivable atrocities of the Holocaust and the extermination of at least 1.1 million prisoners, most of whom were Jewish, during the Second World War.
Spend the rest of the day exploring charming Krakow. You may want to end your day embracing Polish social traditions in one of Krakow’s many cellar restaurants and pubs. Dive into the thriving social scene over a few vodkas in one of these cheerful establishments; Zubrowka (Bison Grass Vodka) is a must!
Optional Activities:
Rynek Underground Museum, 19PLN/person: Travel beneath the market square for a tour of the underground route of forgotten medieval market stalls.
Old Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz): For some of the history that makes Krakow so famous, visit the Jewish district of Kazimierz, just south of Old Town. Once the centre of Jewish life for more than 500 years, it was destroyed during the Second World War, only to be revitalized in the 1990s following the popularity of Steven Spielberg’s film, Schindler’s List. During your Jewish culture crawl, see synagogues, Gothic churches, and art galleries, then stop for a drink in one of the more than 800 pubs that populate the nooks and alleys of this historic district.
Wieliczka Salt Mines, 79PLN/person: If you can tear yourself away from the charms of Krakow, make a visit the Wieliczka Salt Mines, located only a short distance away. Built in the 13th century, these mines produced table salt until 2007, making it one of the world’s oldest salt mines. Head deep into an underground network of tunnels and chambers some 135m (443 ft) below the surface. Visit the Blessed King’s Chapel, a salt cathedral carved by miners, complete with elaborate chandeliers and sculptures.
Wawel Royal Castle, 3PLN/person: Take a stroll up Wawel hill (or catch a ride on a horse and carriage) to 16th century Wawel Castle. Roam the gardens, or the museum featuring exhibitions that give you some insight into life as a royal, such as Royal Private Apartments, and Crown Treasury and Armory.
Bar Mleczny (Milk Bar) Meal: Originally set up as an affordable canteen for Polish workers, bar mlecznys (“Milk Bars”) are now known as a must visit for authentic, Polish comfort food. Try the pierogi (traditional dumplings), placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes), or (and?) kielbasa (sausages).
Accommodation: Globtroter (or similar)
DAY 5: KRAKOW
Opt to visit Rynek Główny – Europe’s largest medieval market square; savour a traditional Polish breakfast (kielbasa, yum), or sit back with a coffee and a slice of Poland’s famous cheesecake (sernik babci) at one of the many cafes in the area. Then, walk it off with a stroll uphill to marvel at the impressive Wawel Royal Castle.
Optional Activities:
Rynek Underground Museum, 19PLN/person: Travel beneath the market square for a tour of the underground route of forgotten medieval market stalls.
Old Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz): For some of the history that makes Krakow so famous, visit the Jewish district of Kazimierz, just south of Old Town. Once the centre of Jewish life for more than 500 years, it was destroyed during the Second World War, only to be revitalized in the 1990s following the popularity of Steven Spielberg’s film, Schindler’s List. During your Jewish culture crawl, see synagogues, Gothic churches, and art galleries, then stop for a drink in one of the more than 800 pubs that populate the nooks and alleys of this historic district.
Wieliczka Salt Mines, 79PLN/person: If you can tear yourself away from the charms of Krakow, make a visit the Wieliczka Salt Mines, located only a short distance away. Built in the 13th century, these mines produced table salt until 2007, making it one of the world’s oldest salt mines. Head deep into an underground network of tunnels and chambers some 135m (443 ft) below the surface. Visit the Blessed King’s Chapel, a salt cathedral carved by miners, complete with elaborate chandeliers and sculptures.
Wawel Royal Castle, 3PLN/person: Take a stroll up Wawel hill (or catch a ride on a horse and carriage) to 16th century Wawel Castle. Roam the gardens, or the museum featuring exhibitions that give you some insight into life as a royal, such as Royal Private Apartments, and Crown Treasury and Armory.
Bar Mleczny (Milk Bar) Meal: Originally set up as an affordable canteen for Polish workers, bar mlecznys (“Milk Bars”) are now known as a must visit for authentic, Polish comfort food. Try the pierogi (traditional dumplings), placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes), or (and?) kielbasa (sausages).
Accommodation: Globtroter (or similar)
DAY 6: KRAKOW/PRAGUE
Take a scenic day train into Czech Republic. Soak up the atmosphere of Prague, a unique community where every street, ghetto, inn and theatre tells a story.
If you’re in the area and want to experience traditional Czech pubs, which are guaranteed to be loud, lively, and packed with locals on any night of the week, this is the place to find restaurants serving traditional Czech cuisine such as fried pork cutlets, goulash, and dumplings.
Mucha Museum, 240CZK/person: Spend some time with a master of Art Nouveau – a style famous for its flowing lines and natural forms – at the Mucha Museum. With seven themed galleries that explore the life and times of Czech artist Alphonse Mucha, view dozens of the decorative panels, posters, illustrations, paintings and photographs that made him one of the art world’s most prolific and revered figures.
Old Town Visit: Wander the cobblestoned streets and soak in the Eastern European charm.
Prague Ghetto (Josefov/Jewish Quarter), 10-20EUR/person: The Prague Ghetto, known as Josefov, is located between the Old Town Square and the Vltava River. This Jewish Quarter was first established in the 13th century, when Jewish people were ordered to leave their homes in other areas of the city and settle in this designated community. Birthplace to author Franz Kafka, see a monument in his honor, visit historical synagogues, a cemetery and museum with many artifacts collected during the Second World War.
Petrin Hill Hike, free-30CZK/person: Prague certainly has no shortage of breathtaking views and Petřín Hill, near the Prague Castle, offers a less obstructed panoramic vista of the “city of spires.” If you’re not in the mood for hiking uphill you can always take a cable car all the way to the top.
Prague Castle (Hradcany), 250-350CZK/person: If you like a challenge, climb 200+ steps up to the famous Prague Castle (known as Hradčany), the Castle of the Bohemian Kings. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the largest castle complex in the world, and includes Roman-style buildings from the 10th century. Still got energy? Climb the lookout tower of St. Vitus Cathedral and be rewarded with a glorious view of the city.
Letna Beer Garden, free-3EUR/person: Watch the sunset from the heights of the Letná Beer Garden in Letná Park, along the banks of the Vltava River. Sample a pint of Gambrinus 10° Czech beer, world-famous for its superb quality and low cost. Grab a grilled sausage and soak in the scenery.
Kafka Museum, 200CZK/person: Immerse yourself in the world of Franz Kafka, widely regarded as one of the 20th century’s greatest literary authors. At the Franz Kafka Museum, explore the Prague of Kafka’s youth, weave your way through the places and events which influence his writing style (often referred to as “Kafkaesque”) and uncover how his formative experiences led to works such as “The Metamorphosis”.
Old Town Hall and Clock Tower, 110-440CZK/person: The Astronomical Clock Tower, built next to Prague’s Old Town Hall, is a 600-year-old masterpiece and the oldest working clock in the world. Every hour, hundreds of visitors gather to hear it chime and watch the twelve apostles “greet” curious onlookers. At the visitor’s centre, opt to book an independent tour of the clock tower to see its inner workings.
Charles Bridge, free: Visit the Charles Bridge, commissioned by King Charles IV in 1357. Cross the ancient cobblestone walkway which spans 16 arches, lined with 30 religious statues. Buy souvenirs and listen to street musicians. It’s less crowded first thing in the morning and at night.
Museum of Communism, 150CZK/person: Visit the Museum of Communism for an in-depth look into Prague’s recent history. Covering the period after Nazi occupation and leading up to the Velvet Revolution – a tumultuous 40 years for many Czech people – there’s much to explore over two floors. Wander through galleries filled with photos, videos, artifacts and other exhibits that provide a glimpse into everyday life during the communist era.
Accommodation: Miss Sophie’s Downtown (or similar)
DAYS 7-8: PRAGUE
Enjoy an orientation walk with your trip leader before exploring all Prague has to offer. Opt to visit the famous Charles Bridge, the clock tower in the main square or a traditional Czech beer hall with serious helpings of meat and potatoes.
Petrin Hill Hike, free-30CZK/person: Prague certainly has no shortage of breathtaking views and Petřín Hill, near the Prague Castle, offers a less obstructed panoramic vista of the “city of spires.” If you’re not in the mood for hiking uphill you can always take a cable car all the way to the top.
Prague Castle (Hradcany), 250-350CZK/person: If you like a challenge, climb 200+ steps up to the famous Prague Castle (known as Hradčany), the Castle of the Bohemian Kings. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the largest castle complex in the world, and includes Roman-style buildings from the 10th century. Still got energy? Climb the lookout tower of St. Vitus Cathedral and be rewarded with a glorious view of the city.
Letna Beer Garden, free-3EUR/person: Watch the sunset from the heights of the Letná Beer Garden in Letná Park, along the banks of the Vltava River. Sample a pint of Gambrinus 10° Czech beer, world-famous for its superb quality and low cost. Grab a grilled sausage and soak in the scenery.
Kafka Museum, 200CZK/person: Immerse yourself in the world of Franz Kafka, widely regarded as one of the 20th century’s greatest literary authors. At the Franz Kafka Museum, explore the Prague of Kafka’s youth, weave your way through the places and events which influence his writing style (often referred to as “Kafkaesque”) and uncover how his formative experiences led to works such as “The Metamorphosis”.
Old Town Hall and Clock Tower, 110-440CZK/person: The Astronomical Clock Tower, built next to Prague’s Old Town Hall, is a 600-year-old masterpiece and the oldest working clock in the world. Every hour, hundreds of visitors gather to hear it chime and watch the twelve apostles “greet” curious onlookers. At the visitor’s centre, opt to book an independent tour of the clock tower to see its inner workings.
Charles Bridge, free: Visit the Charles Bridge, commissioned by King Charles IV in 1357. Cross the ancient cobblestone walkway which spans 16 arches, lined with 30 religious statues. Buy souvenirs and listen to street musicians. It’s less crowded first thing in the morning and at night.
Museum of Communism, 150CZK/person: Visit the Museum of Communism for an in-depth look into Prague’s recent history. Covering the period after Nazi occupation and leading up to the Velvet Revolution – a tumultuous 40 years for many Czech people – there’s much to explore over two floors. Wander through galleries filled with photos, videos, artifacts and other exhibits that provide a glimpse into everyday life during the communist era.
Accommodation: Miss Sophie’s Downtown (or similar)
DAY 9: PRAGUE/CESKY KRUMLOV
Travel to Český Krumlov. Spend time wandering the small city or visiting the small town’s castle.
Jewish Synagogue Cesky Krumlov, free: Discover the mottled history of this Jewish synagogue built in 1909 by members of the small Jewish community. Facing Jerusalem, it features an eight-sided tower, blue arched ceilings and colorful windows decorated with the Star of David. Learn how it went from synagogue to meeting space for Hitler’s Youth Club, to a church for US soldiers, to theatre storage space, back to a synagogue within the short span of a century.
State Castle and Chateau Cesky Krumlov Tour, 360CZK/person: Tour the Český Krumlov State Castle and Chateau, complete with hidden passageways, a unique Baroque theatre, a hedge maze and beautiful gardens. The castle and surrounding complex is one of the largest in central Europe. Built between the 14th and 19th centuries, the well-preserved layout, structure, interior and architectural details earned it a spot on UNESCO’s list of World Cultural Heritage Monuments.
Biking, 5-10EUR/person: Rent a bike and set off an a cycle adventure through the region.
Accommodation: Hotel Old Inn (or similar)
DAY 10: CESKY KRUMLOV/VIENNA
Take private van to Austria in time for a walking tour of Vienna’s most beautiful sights. Enjoy an orientation walk of the city’s beautiful and elegant streets, taking in Vienna’s most famous sights. The walk will focus on the Hofburg Palace, residence of the Habsburg dynasty, rulers of the Austro-Hungarian Empire for nearly 650 years, as well as St. Stephen´s Cathedral, the landmark of Vienna. Hear Habsburg family secrets and other tales from Vienna’s folklore, then dive in to a Sachertorte coffee house and the oldest cake shop in the city. Yum!
Optional Activities:
St. Stephen’s Cathedral, free: St. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of Vienna’s main landmarks complete with a 343-step climb up a spiral staircase to look out over the city.
Belvedere Gallery, 19EUR/person: Learn some of the history of this beautiful palace and grounds and explore the impressive art collection. Of particular note, the museum’s collection of 24 pieces by Gustav Kilmt, including his famous ‘Kiss’.
Vienna Boy’s Choir, 35EUR/person: Sit back and be transported by the sweet voices of the one of world’s best known choirs. Founded in 1498, the Vienna Boys’ Choir is made up of boys aged 10-14 from Austria and around the world. Attend a live concert and learn what it means to be moved by music.
Vienna State Opera House, 8EUR/person: Visit the famous Vienna Opera House and soak in its exceptional architecture. Opt for a guided tour to see the opera house’s main features and learn about the history of the building.
View Lipizzaner Horses at Spanish Riding School of Vienna, 14EUR/person: Pay a visit to the gorgeous grey Lipizzaner horses of the renowned Spanish Riding School of Vienna. Witness the birthplace of “airs above the ground,” or classical dressage, known for its highly controlled movements and jumps.
Hotel Sacher Visit and Dessert, 30-50EUR/person: Visit the historic Hotel Sacher and get a taste of the world-famous Sacher Torte. It’s a cultural experience as well as a delicious cake.
Schonbrunn Palace Visit/Tour, 11-15EUR/person: Enjoy a guided tour of the stunning summer palace designed by Empress Maria Theresa herself. The palace gardens are free to all visitors.
Accommodation: Magdas Hotel (or similar): The global refugee and migrant crisis has displaced more than 60 million people around the world, and it’s estimated that well over 100,000 refugees have settled in Austria alone. Magdas Hotel is changing the lives of these newcomers and their families by employing a staff consisting almost entirely of refugees. Not only that, but the social enterprise was also decorated by renowned local architects and volunteer artists, who found ways to upcycle materials creatively while making a beautiful hotel.
DAY 11: VIENNA
Wander the elegant streets a little more, take in some of Europe’s most distinguished art galleries or just settle yourself on a café terrace, order up a slice of mouthwatering Viennese cake and watch the world go by over coffee.
Optional Activities:
St. Stephen’s Cathedral, free: St. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of Vienna’s main landmarks complete with a 343-step climb up a spiral staircase to look out over the city.
Belvedere Gallery, 19EUR/person: Learn some of the history of this beautiful palace and grounds and explore the impressive art collection. Of particular note, the museum’s collection of 24 pieces by Gustav Kilmt, including his famous ‘Kiss’.
Vienna Boy’s Choir, 35EUR/person: Sit back and be transported by the sweet voices of the one of world’s best known choirs. Founded in 1498, the Vienna Boys’ Choir is made up of boys aged 10-14 from Austria and around the world. Attend a live concert and learn what it means to be moved by music.
Vienna State Opera House, 8EUR/person: Visit the famous Vienna Opera House and soak in its exceptional architecture. Opt for a guided tour to see the opera house’s main features and learn about the history of the building.
View Lipizzaner Horses at Spanish Riding School of Vienna, 14EUR/person: Pay a visit to the gorgeous grey Lipizzaner horses of the renowned Spanish Riding School of Vienna. Witness the birthplace of “airs above the ground,” or classical dressage, known for its highly controlled movements and jumps.
Hotel Sacher Visit and Dessert, 30-50EUR/person: Visit the historic Hotel Sacher and get a taste of the world-famous Sacher Torte. It’s a cultural experience as well as a delicious cake.
Schonbrunn Palace Visit/Tour, 11-15EUR/person: Enjoy a guided tour of the stunning summer palace designed by Empress Maria Theresa herself. The palace gardens are free to all visitors.
Accommodation: Magdas Hotel (or similar)
DAY 12: VIENNA/BUDAPEST
Travel by train to Hungary to explore the beautiful city of Budapest. Opt to visit Buda Castle, window shop in Pest or soak in the city’s famous thermal baths. With the Danube River dividing old town, Buda, from the newer area, Pest, there is plenty to see and do.
Stop for a refreshment at Nem Adom Fel Café and Bar, whose proceeds help fund a non-profit by the same name, which means “Never Give Up.” Most of the employees at this social enterprise café are living with a disability, and the charity advocates for rights for the disabled all over Hungary. Your meal helps this café to invest in the charity’s efforts, which also includes supporting rural Roma communities through much-needed social programs.
Buda Castle, 1500HUF/person: Set on Castle Hill overlooking the Danube River and Pest, Buda Castle was once home to the Hungarian kings of Budapest. Admire the gorgeous architecture and visit its two museums; the National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. Permanent collections depict the past 500 yrs of Hungary’s art history, including Medieval and Renaissance stonework, Gothic wood sculptures, and Gothic altars.
Thermal Baths, 4200-5000HUF/person: Bring two towels, your bathing suit and an aching body and prepare to be healed in the largest medicinal bath in Europe. Built in 1913, you can test the waters of 18 different pools (15 of which are spring fed) amidst stunning neo-Baroque architecture. Play chess on floating chessboards, relax in the whirlpools and explore the wonderful mosaic domes of these historic thermal steam rooms.
Budapest Bike Tour, 28EUR/person: Join a group for a guided city tour by bike. Buzz around the city on two wheels to cover more ground and get your blood pumping.
Hungarian National Museum, 1600HUF/person: Discover a vast collection of relics at the Hungarian National Museum, the oldest in the country. Wander through galleries that feature incredible objects from prehistoric to modern times, including those from the Stone Age, Ottoman period and contemporary Hungary.
Hungarian State Opera House, 2900HUF/person: Constructed in 1873, the Opera House is one of Budapest’s most stunning examples of Neo-Renaissance architecture. Take a tour around this stunning building to get a closer look at the ornate marble statues, frescos, and ornate tin work – to name a few highlights.
Great Market Hall, free: Take a stroll though the oldest indoor market in Hungary.
Chain Bridge, free: Straddling the river Danube, the Chain Bridge suspension bridge is the first built to connect Buda and Pest, and is now one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks.
Budapest History Walking Tour: Unravel the secrets of Budapest on a 3-hour walking tour of the city’s medieval and Jewish districts. Your guide will meet you and then take you to visit Great Market Hall, the city’s largest food market, before making your way through winding streets to see remnants of Budapest’s 15th-century fortress walls. Immerse yourself in the pre-Ottoman worlds of Buda and Pest, separated by the Danube River, and learn about events of historical significance along the way. Stop for a coffee break, then continue onto the city’s Jewish district and visit the Dohany Street Synagogue to learn about the history of Hungarian Jews. Today, this area is known for its “ruin bars” and is a lively center of nightlife.
Parliament Building, 5200HUF/person: Take a guided tour of one of Hungary’s crown jewels – the Hungarian Parliament building. Existing as the third largest Parliament building in the world, its Neo Gothic architecture also makes it a contender for one of the most beautiful. Tour the Hungarian Coronation Jewels in the Dome Hall, the Old Upper House Hall of the bicameral Hungarian Parliament, as well as the Lounge. Guided tours are mandatory for entrance and we recommend booking your tour in advance.
Danube River Cruise: Float down the Danube for a better look at the picturesque sites along the river bend.
Accommodation: Star Inn Hotel Budapest Centrum (or similar)
DAY 13: BUDAPEST
Spend a free day exploring this charming and historic city. Opt to take a boat trip down the Danube, or travel further afield to the Etyek wine country.
Buda Castle, 1500HUF/person: Set on Castle Hill overlooking the Danube River and Pest, Buda Castle was once home to the Hungarian kings of Budapest. Admire the gorgeous architecture and visit its two museums; the National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. Permanent collections depict the past 500 yrs of Hungary’s art history, including Medieval and Renaissance stonework, Gothic wood sculptures, and Gothic altars.
Thermal Baths, 4200-5000HUF/person: Bring two towels, your bathing suit and an aching body and prepare to be healed in the largest medicinal bath in Europe. Built in 1913, you can test the waters of 18 different pools (15 of which are spring fed) amidst stunning neo-Baroque architecture. Play chess on floating chessboards, relax in the whirlpools and explore the wonderful mosaic domes of these historic thermal steam rooms.
Budapest Bike Tour, 28EUR/person: Join a group for a guided city tour by bike. Buzz around the city on two wheels to cover more ground and get your blood pumping.
Hungarian National Museum, 1600HUF/person: Discover a vast collection of relics at the Hungarian National Museum, the oldest in the country. Wander through galleries that feature incredible objects from prehistoric to modern times, including those from the Stone Age, Ottoman period and contemporary Hungary.
Hungarian State Opera House, 2900HUF/person: Constructed in 1873, the Opera House is one of Budapest’s most stunning examples of Neo-Renaissance architecture. Take a tour around this stunning building to get a closer look at the ornate marble statues, frescos, and ornate tin work – to name a few highlights.
Great Market Hall, free: Take a stroll though the oldest indoor market in Hungary.
Chain Bridge, free: Straddling the river Danube, the Chain Bridge suspension bridge is the first built to connect Buda and Pest, and is now one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks.
Budapest History Walking Tour: Unravel the secrets of Budapest on a 3-hour walking tour of the city’s medieval and Jewish districts. Your guide will meet you and then take you to visit Great Market Hall, the city’s largest food market, before making your way through winding streets to see remnants of Budapest’s 15th-century fortress walls. Immerse yourself in the pre-Ottoman worlds of Buda and Pest, separated by the Danube River, and learn about events of historical significance along the way. Stop for a coffee break, then continue onto the city’s Jewish district and visit the Dohany Street Synagogue to learn about the history of Hungarian Jews. Today, this area is known for its “ruin bars” and is a lively center of nightlife.
Parliament Building, 5200HUF/person: Take a guided tour of one of Hungary’s crown jewels – the Hungarian Parliament building. Existing as the third largest Parliament building in the world, its Neo Gothic architecture also makes it a contender for one of the most beautiful. Tour the Hungarian Coronation Jewels in the Dome Hall, the Old Upper House Hall of the bicameral Hungarian Parliament, as well as the Lounge. Guided tours are mandatory for entrance and we recommend booking your tour in advance.
Danube River Cruise: Float down the Danube for a better look at the picturesque sites along the river bend.
DAY 14: BUDAPEST
Depart at any time.
Accommodation: Star Inn Hotel Budapest Centrum (or similar)
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