Like a rhapsody that enchants the dreams of composers, artists, writers, and romantics, this European escorted tour from Budapest to Prague promises to bring out the Bohemian in you. Hear the bells resound above Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, and Prague; see the cathedral skies and castles rise; taste the tempting foodie delights and spectacular sights of Budapest and feel the charm of Slovakia. Wrap your senses in the stunning beauty of Vienna to the Golden City of Prague on this artful 9-day European vacation that’s nothing short of captivating.
PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Prague so you can plan your day your way.
Bohemian DreamDay 1ARRIVE IN BUDAPEST, HUNGARY Welcome to Budapest! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at the hotel. (D)
Day 2BUDAPESTThe Pearl of the Danube Wake up in the beautiful city of Budapest! Follow your Local Guide on a fascinating sightseeing tour; visit the Jewish Synagogue, the second largest in the world, take in the fantastic views from Fisherman’s Bastion, visit Heroes Square, and see the Matthias Coronation Church. 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 was 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 3BUDAPEST–GYOR–BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA Capital Cities Depart Budapest and drive to Gyor, often referred to as the Baroque City, spend free time admiring the architecture whilst exploring the picture perfect Old Town. Later,continue to Bratislava, capital of Slovakia. Your guided sightseeing includes a walking tour of the historic center with a visit of St. Martin’s Cathedral, the Coronation Church. An evening at leisure to see more of the city and try some local dishes. (B)
127mi / 205km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CITY SIGHTS Situated on the Danube River with the Little Carpathian Mountains as its backdrop, Bratislava is a real gem, a capital city with a local vibe. Watch out for “Cumil” one the city’s most photographed residents - the bronze statue of a worker peering from a manhole at passersby.
Day 4BRATISLAVA–VIENNA, AUSTRIA The City of Music Cross the border into Austria to reach its capital city, Vienna. Your Local Guide will get you acquainted with the city during a sightseeing tour. Drive along the elegant Ringstrasse, stop to take photos of the Hofburg Palace and Heldenplatz, and visit the incredible St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Free time this afternoon and evening, why not be tempted by some traditional local specialties for lunch and dinner. (B)
68mi / 110km
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 5VIENNASweet Traditions A relaxing morning at leisure to discover more of this fascinating city, why not check out one of the many museums or browse the stores. This afternoon a real treat awaits you, dip deeper into the Viennese culture with an [LF] exclusive waltz dancing lesson, where else to do this but in the city of Strauss! Then enjoy a little indulgence with a delicious [LF] Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake) at an historic local Café. (B)
LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES The Viennese coffee house culture has roots dating back to the end of the Ottoman siege on Vienna and the coffee beans that were left behind. The coffee houses that opened around the city became popular as places to socialize, or as inspiration for literary artists. Famous for their atmosphere, elegant decor, and delicious pastries, the Viennese coffee house culture has been listed by UNESCO as an “intangible Cultural Heritage.”
Day 6VIENNA–CESKY KRUMLOV, CZECH REPUBLIC Medieval Gem Reach the picturesque town of Cesky Krumlov in time to have some free time for lunch. Later meet your Local Guide for a walking tour of this enchanting town. Stroll to the Vltava River that meanders around the town, see the Church of St Vitus and a enjoy a magnificent view of the former Jesuit colleges. Admire the castle and the impressive “Cloak Bridge.” (B,D)
130 mi / 210 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOT The name Cesky Krumlov is thought to mean “crooked meadow” and originates from the town’s location on a bend of the Vltava River. Its most distinct architectural feature is the castle complex, one of the largest in Central Europe, consisting of 40 buildings and palaces. Now a state-owned property, it has been owned by different noble families through the centuries with many fascinating tales to tell.
Day 7CESKY KRUMLOV–HLUBOKA CASTLE–CESKE BUDEJOVICE–PRAGUE What’s in a Name? This morning a Local Guide will accompany you for a guided visit of the majestic Hluboka Castle. Continue to Ceske Budejovice for a [LF] private guided tour of the Budvar (Budweiser) Brewery. Learn about the brewing process before enjoying a light lunch. Later, reach Prague, the vibrant capital city often called the “City of a Hundred Spires,” or “The Golden City.” (B,L,D)
112 mi / 180 km
LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTE The town of Ceske Budejovice was once called Budweis, and ever since it was founded in the 13th century beer brewing has been an important industry. In the 16th century this beer became known as the “Beer of Kings.” When Adolphus Busch and Carl Conrad visited Budweis in the 19th century, they decided to produce their own version of the beer back home in the USA and named it “Budweiser” “of Budweis,” and gave it the motto “King of Beers.”
Day 8PRAGUESpend your day your way in Prague Follow your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour which includes the Astronomical Clock. Explore more of Prague with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions.
Castles & Toasts
Join your Local Guide for a fascinating walking tour through Prague¿s 1,100-year-old Castle District¿the largest castle complex in the world! Main highlights include the Malá Strana Quarter and St. Vitus¿ Cathedral, followed by a St. Wenceslas wine tasting in the vineyards at the foot of the castle for a sensational view of Prague's iconic spires.
Launch and Lunch
Savor the moment with a leisurely lunch cruise aboard a beautiful floating restaurant on the Vltava River, passing scenes of Prague's most beloved icons and monuments including Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, Charles Bridge, Petrin Tower, the National Theater, and more.
This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
Day 9PRAGUESafe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)