Vacation Overview
Tour Details
On this guided vacation of Central Europe, experience the rich history and most popular destinations without the crowds—and even better—without the high-season prices. This Central Europe escorted tour is a magnificent journey through the former Habsburg Empire offering romantic castles, churches, villas and modern architecture, vineyards, breweries, first-class shopping, art, and culinary delights. Both vibrant and relaxing, your adventure begins in magical Budapest and combines another two of Central Europe’s most popular cities: Vienna and Prague.
Enjoy sightseeing of the must-see sights with a Local Guide in all cities: in Budapest, enjoy the treasures of the city with a panoramic view from Fishermen’s Bastion and admire the 13th-century Matthias Coronation Church, the coronation spot of several Hungarian monarchs; in Vienna, among the many sights you will see, visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a symbol of Vienna; and in Prague, visit the 1000-year-old Hradcany Castle grounds, the largest castle complex in the world. Marvel at the Astronomical Clock, built in 1410, and once the envy of all Europe. From the exciting cities and historical sights to the special experiences, this Central Europe escorted vacation has something for everyone, including a low-season price that you won’t want to miss! Let Globus handle the details while you sit back, relax, and enjoy this amazing Imperial Escape!
Daily Itinerary
Imperial Escape
Day 1: ARRIVE IN BUDAPEST, HUNGARYWelcome to Budapest! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at the hotel. (D)
Day 2: BUDAPESTThe Pearl of The Danube Wake up in the beautiful city of Budapest! Follow your Local Guide on a fascinating sightseeing tour; see main highlights, take in the fantastic views from Fisherman’s Bastion, and visit Heroes Square, dominated by the column supporting the Archangel Gabriel statue. This afternoon and evening, enjoy free time to explore more. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
PICTURE PERFECT History suggests Fisherman’s Bastion owes its name to a medieval fishermen’s guild, who lived under the castle walls, and responsible for preserving this part of the city. A visit to Budapest is not complete without a stop here to take in the most enchanting views of the capital of Hungary.
Day 3: BUDAPEST–VIENNA, AUSTRIAThe City of Music Cross the border into Austria to reach Vienna, the capital city. After some free time for lunch, join your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour including a drive along the elegant Ringstrasse. Stop to take photos of the Hofburg Palace and Heldenplatz and visit the incredible St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Enjoy free time this evening to try some local specialties for dinner. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE Visit St. Stephen's Cathedral, the magnificent mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vienna. A sight to behold, the cathedral features the massive Romanesque “Giant's Door” – adorned with dragons, birds, lions, monks, and demons.
Day 4: VIENNACity of Dreams Enjoy a free day in Vienna, absorb more art and culture in one of the many museums, browse the stores, or experience the Viennese coffee-house culture with a delicious kaffee und kuchen (coffee and cake) at one of the city’s elegant cafés. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION Fall in love with the Austrian city that has played an important role throughout history. It is easy to see how musical geniuses such as Mozart and Strauss were inspired by this captivating city.
Day 5: VIENNA–PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLICPanoramas to Prague Take in the views as you depart Vienna and Austria. Cross the border into the Czech Republic and arrive in Prague, the vibrant capital city often called the “City of a Hundred Spires,” or “The Golden City.” Get acquainted with the city during your free afternoon and evening or join an optional excursion. (B)
193 mi / 310 km
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE What better way to spend this free evening than with a guided optional walking tour featuring the city’s illuminated icons, Czech beer, and music at a local tavern? Take also a stroll across the world-famous Charles Bridge!
Day 6: PRAGUEThe Golden City Join your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour to discover this exquisite city. Visit the Hradcany Castle grounds and admire the views of the Castle’s walls and the St. Vitus Cathedral. Continue to the Old Town to see the Jewish Ghetto and the famous Astronomical Clock. An afternoon at leisure to explore more. This evening, join your travel companions for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEM The capital city of the Czech Republic which spans the Vltava River is often called the “City of a Hundred Spires,” or “The Golden City.” See the beautiful Old Town Square, with vibrant Baroque buildings, Gothic churches, and the medieval Astronomical Clock, delighting passers-by each hour. Stroll around the exquisite grounds at Hradcany Castle, considered to be the world’s largest ancient castle complex.
Day 7: PRAGUESafe Travels Until We Meet Again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)