Highlights of Central Europe

Ahoj! Welcome to Prague, the City of a Hundred Spires and the capital of the Czech Republic. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe explore the Old Town Square, walk across Charles Bridge or visit the Astronomical Clock. After your meeting, maybe get to know your fellow travellers over dinner at a Czech pub, where you can try traditional food like sausages, dumplings and salads and drink fresh, crisp beer straight from the tank – just like a local.

This morning, visit Prague Castle – a UNESCO monument built in the 9th century, which served as the seat of power for the Kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman Emperors and Presidents of former Czechoslovakia. Then, continue at your own pace to the Old Royal Palace, St Vitrus’ Cathedral, St George’s Basilica and the Golden Lane, all within the Prague Castle complex. Later, head to a local canteen for a traditional Czech lunch with the locals. The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your leisure – maybe visit the National Museum, stroll the cobblestone streets or climb to the Petrin Lookout Tower for panoramic views of the city.

Depart Prague by public bus and head to Cesky Krumlov – a UNESCO World Heritage centre. Pronounced 'chess-kee kroom-love,’ this medieval town's name means 'crooked meadow,' which is fitting, as it's tucked into a sharp bend of the Vltava River. When you arrive, join a local guide for a walking tour of the town. Hear tales of the histories hidden behind shopfronts and learn how the town was built around the Hrad Cesky Krumlov – a 13th-century castle featuring Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. The rest of today is free for you to explore Cesky Krumlov – maybe visit the town's castle or art gallery.

This morning, cross the border into Austria and travel to Vienna. When you arrive, join your local leader for a walk through the city centre. Visit the gothic-style St Stephen’s Cathedral, wander past the grand neo-classical Graben and explore the Hofburg Palace. Then, stop at Vollpension – a cafe that aims to bridge the generation gap by employing senior bakers who happen to be grandmas and grandpas. Then, finish your orientation walk of the city at the State Opera House. From here, the rest of the day is free for you to explore Vienna. Maybe visit the Museum of Natural History or walk through the Albertina and learn about the region’s art. Tonight, maybe find a local restaurant for dinner and try some local dishes like famous schnitzel or kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake).

Today is a free day to explore Vienna at your own pace. Maybe take a guided tour of Schonbrunn Palace and explore the Gloriette Monument and the palace gardens. Then, you could visit the State Opera House or watch a classical dressage show at the Spanish Riding School. Tonight, maybe join your group for dinner at a local restaurant – your leader will have the best recommendations.

After breakfast, you’ll take a scenic train journey across the border into Hungary to reach Budapest. When you arrive, set off on a walking tour with your local leader. Visit the Great Synagogue, wander through the Jewish District and maybe pass by the Hungarian State Opera House. Step inside St Stephen’s Basilica and see how it blends neoclassical and Renaissance architecture. Then, continue to the Memorial for Victims of the German Occupation and visit the Monument to the Soviet Red Army in Liberty Square. End your walking tour at the Parliament building – take in the view of this neo-Gothic building that stretches across the bank of the Danube River. This afternoon is free for you to enjoy everything Budapest has to offer. Maybe unwind at the Szechenyi or Rudas Thermal Baths and discover why Budapest is known as the ‘City of Spas’.

This morning is free for you to explore Budapest at your own pace. Maybe visit the Hungarian Parliament Building or discover the statues of Hungarian heroes at Heroes’ Square. This afternoon, join a local host for a home-cooked Hungarian meal. You'll be invited into their home to enjoy a drink and snack on dishes that might include fresh vegetables, cheese, bread and homemade sausages. Then, roll up your sleeves and join the action in the kitchen where you’ll learn some of the local specialties with a cooking class. After, tuck into your freshly prepared meal with your host – a great way to celebrate a trip well-travelled!