CENTRAL EUROPE

Vacation Overview

This popular vacation takes you through the heart of Central Europe. Starting and ending in Frankfurt, spend two overnights each in Berlin, Warsaw, Krakow, Budapest, and Prague. See Germany’s major cities, including the one-time intellectual hub of Weimar; reunified Berlin; and Munich, the lively and hospitable Bavarian capital. From Germany, it’s on to the highlights of Poland: charming Poznan, magnificent Warsaw, the historic Jasna Góra monastery, the Auschwitz concentration camp, and romantic Krakow. As you travel to Hungary, admire the majestic Tatra Mountains and pass through some of the most scenic parts of Slovakia. The legendary Danube welcomes you to Budapest with Buda Castle, Fishermen’s Bastion, and Matthias Coronation Church. Austria’s capital of Vienna beckons next, the elegant city known for the waltz, delectable pastries, and awe-inspiring Habsburg palaces. On to Prague with its Charles Bridge, Jewish Quarter, and world-famous Astronomical Clock. Head through the Bohemian Forest, into Bavaria to Munich, and along the Romantic Road with its fairytale villages of Nördlingen and Rothenburg, medieval jewels with traditional 16th-century half-timbered houses.

Special Departures:
Mar 27th Departure - Easter Week
Dec 13th Departure - Christmas lunch in Prague

Map

Itinerary

Day 1Sat. BOARD YOUR OVERNIGHT TRANSATLANTIC FLIGHT

Day 2Sun. ARRIVE IN FRANKFURT AREA, GERMANY

Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free. Tonight, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers.

Day 3Mon. FRANKFURT–WEIMAR–BERLIN

Northeast today using the Autobahn for a stop in Weimar, one-time intellectual heart of Germany and host to such luminaries as Luther, Cranach, Bach, Liszt, Schiller, and, of course, Goethe himself. It was at one time rightly known as the “Athens of Germany.” Journey past Jena, home to the world-famous Zeiss Optics Factory. Over the River Elbe for a few more miles into Germany’s capital city, Berlin. (Breakfast)

Day 4Tue. BERLIN

No longer divided but every bit as fascinating. Once the city of contrasts with its West and East side separating two different worlds, since the wall came down, Berlin has developed into a harmonious blend of old and new. It has preserved the old buildings, such as the State Opera House and the Brandenburg Gate, its neoclassic-style boulevards such as the Kurfürstendamm and “Unter den Linden,” as well as created brand new buildings in the most daring up-to-date architectural styles. It is once again Germany’s capital and one of Europe most lively and interesting cities, from a cultural point of view. In the afternoon, there's an optional excursion to historic Potsdam. (Breakfast)

Day 5Wed. BERLIN–WARSAW, POLAND

Drive east to Poznan, one of Poland’s oldest trading centers and now an international marketplace during its industrial fairs. See more of the Polish countryside on the way to Warsaw. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 6Thu. WARSAW

The included sightseeing tour is an excellent introduction to Warsaw, magnificently reconstructed after wartime destruction. Today its wide avenues contrast strikingly with the narrow lanes of the old section. (Breakfast)

Day 7Fri. WARSAW–AUSCHWITZ–KRAKOW

Two encounters with history on your southbound journey today. First, Jasna Góra near Czestochowa, the monastery that withstood the repeated onslaught of overwhelming Swedish forces during the religious wars of the 17th century. Since then, its Black Madonna is venerated as the “Queen of Poland” and has become the country’s national symbol. In the afternoon, visit what is left of the Auschwitz concentration camp, a chilling reminder of the Holocaust. Evening arrival in Krakow. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 8Sat. KRAKOW

This is, they say, Poland’s most beautiful city. For almost 500 years it was the country’s capital, and today it is without a doubt its cultural capital. Optional morning sightseeing in ancient Krakow, for centuries the residence of Polish kings. See the Market Square, the 14th-century Jagiellonian University, St. Mary’s Church, and Wawel Royal Castle. Free time later to explore this interesting town at your own pace and mingle with the locals. Tonight’s optional folklore dinner might be the way to round off your stay in this city. (Breakfast)

Day 9Sun. KRAKOW–BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

A comfortable drive through three countries. First, south to the Tatra Mountains of Poland, then through a scenic part of Slovakia, and finally into Hungary. Your destination is Budapest, the most lively of Eastern European capitals. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 10Mon. BUDAPEST

Included sightseeing features Buda Castle, which dominates the twin cities of Buda and Pest, separated by the broad ribbon of the Danube. Also see Heroes’ Square, which typifies the modern capital, as well as the old inns and wine cellars along the riverbank, Parliament, Margaret Island, Fishermen’s Bastion, the Royal Castle, and Matthias Coronation Church. (Breakfast)

Day 11Tue. BUDAPEST–VIENNA, AUSTRIA

Head for the Austrian border by way of Györ. You’ll be in Vienna in time to enjoy your first afternoon and evening in this lively capital. Enjoy the included sightseeing tour with a Local Guide: the State Opera, Parliament, and the Town Hall. Stop for a stroll in Heroes’ Square to view the Hofburg and an inside visit of St. Stephen’s Cathedral. (Breakfast)

Day 12Wed. VIENNA–PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

Morning optional excursion to Schönbrunn Palace. This afternoon, cross the Czech border into Moravia, then through the rich farmlands of Bohemia to Prague. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 13Thu. PRAGUE

The wealth of gothic and baroque architecture perhaps inspired Dvorak and Smetana, both Prague composers. The included guided sightseeing features landmarks such as the Jewish Quarter, Wenceslas Square, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square with the Astronomical Clock. Your Tour Director may suggest an evening optional excursion with traditional Czech music and spectacular entertainment. (Breakfast)

Day 14Fri. PRAGUE–ROMANTIC ROAD–MUNICH, GERMANY

Into the landscape of the Bohemian Forest before reaching the Czech-German border. The highlight today is undoubtedly the Romantic Road, which runs north to south as far as the Alps. First to lovely medieval Nördlingen, then Rothenburg with its ramparts and towers, cobbled streets, and 16th-century houses before heading towards the Munich area. (Breakfast)

Day 15Sat. MUNICH–FRANKFURT AREA

After an orientation drive in Munich leave for the Frankfurt area.(Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 16Sun. YOUR HOMEBOUND FLIGHT FROM FRANKFURT ARRIVES THE SAME DAY. (Breakfast)

Vacation Highlights

Accommodations

Optional Excursions

Here's a list of optional excursions you can enjoy during your vacation. Whether it's a special dinner, a local show or a special behind-the-scenes glimpse into an historical site, optional excursions are a wonderful way to enrich your vacation even further. Plus, they give you flexibility. We include the must-see sites and experiences, and we also understand that people take interest in different activities and may want to craft a more personal vacation by hand-picking optional excursions that appeal to them.

Availability is subject to sufficient participation, weather conditions, seasonal suitability, days of operation, group interests, and general feasibility for your vacation. The approximate value listed gives you a good, general idea of what you can expect to pay but may vary once you are on your vacation. Some information provided might be in a foreign currency; you can use our online currency converter for exchange rate information.

CITY: Berlin

Berliner Specialties Dinner
A delightful dinner in a typical German restaurant located in the heart of Berlin. You will taste Berliner specialties and be entertained by live music.
Approximate value: EUR €40 per person

Famous City of Potsdam
Potsdam is famous for its fine palaces and many beautiful historical buildings. Visit the Cecilienhof Palace where Truman, Attlee and Stalin signed the Potsdam agreement in 1945. See magnificent Sanssouci Palace, built by Frederich the Great.
Approximate value: EUR €40 per person

CITY: Budapest

Danube Cruise & Illuminations
Board a boat for a one-hour cruise on the mighty Danube accompanied by a local guide. Enjoy river views of the Castle District, the House of Parliament, Gellert Hill, and cruise under the Chain Bridge and around Margaret Island. Two drinks are included.
Approximate value: EUR €28 per person

Artist Village Szentendre
Drive to the picturesque village of Szentendre, the home of many famous Hungarian artists at the turn of the century. Proceed with a visit to a the pretty Greek Orthodox church or Marzipan Museum plus Margit Kovacs Museum. Finally enjoy coffee and cake at a typical inn.
Approximate value: EUR €30 per person

Hungarian Night
A typical Hungarian evening. After an aperitif, enjoy dinner with some fine local specialties and unlimited wine, followed by a programme of Hungarian folklore and Gypsy music.
Approximate value: EUR €47 per person

CITY: Krakow

Krakow Experience
Visit the beautiful one-time capital of Poland. Your tour includes the Kazimierz, the medieval Jewish quarter where part of the film "Schindler's list" was filmed, the vast Market Place, Clothier's Hall, and the Church of St. Mary's. Then to Wawel Hill to see the Royal Palace and the great cathedral where most of Poland's kings and queens were crowned and are buried.
Approximate value: EUR €25 per person

Wieliczka Salt Mines
The Wieliczka salt mines are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take an elevator down into the depths of the mine, to marvel at the vast network of underground passages, caves, lakes, and even a chapel decorated with rock salt sculptures.
Approximate value: EUR €40 per person

Folklore & Dinner
Enjoy an evening of typical Polish food and unlimited drinks throughout the evening in the unique atmosphere of an 18th century wooden cottage.
Approximate value: EUR €48 per person

CITY: Prague

Panorama & Krizik'S Fountains
First enjoy a visit to Strahov monastery where you will appreciate a spectacular view over the whole of Prague and the Moldau River. Then continue to a typical Czech pub where you will taste the famous Prague dark beer. You will end your evening at the Krizikova Fountains, a well known outdoor spectacle where the fountains and the sound of the cascading water is synchronized with music and lights.
Approximate value: EUR €30 per person

The Best Of Medieval Prague
An afternoon full of history and architectural beauty - an intensive visit of the entire Castle District with entrance to the Royal Palace, St. Vitus Cathedral and the Crypt of the Bohemian Kings. You will also see inside the St. George Basilica. Finally, to Golden Lane where Franz Kafka lived for a short while.
Approximate value: EUR €35 per person

Czech Dinner & Music
A typical Czech meal in a famous wine restaurant not far from Prague Castle including unlimited drinks with wine served from special glass pipes. During the meal enjoy folklore music from different parts of the country.
Approximate value: EUR €45 per person

CITY: Vienna

Kursalon Waltz Show
The Vienna Kursalon was built between 1865 and 1867 in the style of the Italian Renaissance. The Kursalon sparkles in renewed splendour, inviting audiences to experience the musical pleasures that have thrilled visitors since the famed Promenade Concerts of the Strauss brothers. Enjoy the unique Viennese ambience and partake of this wonderful musical journey through time.
Approximate value: EUR €40 per person

Schonbrunn Palace & Gardens
A guided tour of part of the magnificent palace of Schonbrunn, which was the summer residence of the Austrian Emperors for nearly 150 years. It was built between 1695 and 1749 with over 100 rooms and beautiful gardens. End the tour with free time in the main gardens.
Approximate value: EUR €40 per person

CITY: Warsaw

Wilanow Palace
Nicknamed "Mini Versailles," this splendid baroque palace was the residence of King John III Sobieski who defeated the Turks at the battle of Vienna in 1683. *Please note: If the Wilanow Palace is closed, the Royal Castle will be visited instead.
Approximate value: EUR €25 per person

Polish Flavors
First drive to the entrance of the Old Town for a walk through the narrow streets to the restaurant, which is located on the edge of the old Market Square. With your typical 3 course dinner there is unlimited wine or beer and mineral water. After dinner there¿s time to stroll around the romantic cobbled streets of Old Warsaw.
Approximate value: EUR €38 per person

Dates and Prices

Departure Details	Departure Date	Tour Start Date	Return Date	Land/Cruise Price Only	Status
	9/11/2010	9/12/2010	9/26/2010	$1,729.00	Not Available
	9/11/2010	9/12/2010	9/26/2010	$1,729.00	Not Available
	9/18/2010	9/19/2010	10/3/2010	$1,729.00	Please Call
	9/18/2010	9/19/2010	10/3/2010	$1,729.00	Please Call
Popular Departure	9/25/2010	9/26/2010	10/10/2010	$1,729.00	Please Call
Popular Departure	9/25/2010	9/26/2010	10/10/2010	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Popular Departure	10/2/2010	10/3/2010	10/17/2010	$1,675.00	Please Call
Popular Departure	10/2/2010	10/3/2010	10/17/2010	$1,675.00	Book Now!
	10/9/2010	10/10/2010	10/24/2010	$1,675.00	Not Available
Popular Departure	10/16/2010	10/17/2010	10/31/2010	$1,675.00	Book Now!
Popular Departure	10/23/2010	10/24/2010	11/7/2010	$1,619.00	Please Call
Popular Departure	10/30/2010	10/31/2010	11/14/2010	$1,619.00	Book Now!
	11/6/2010	11/7/2010	11/21/2010	$1,585.00	Not Available
Popular Departure	12/13/2010	12/14/2010	12/28/2010	$1,599.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	3/5/2011	3/6/2011	3/20/2011	$1,619.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	3/12/2011	3/13/2011	3/27/2011	$1,619.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	3/19/2011	3/20/2011	4/3/2011	$1,619.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	3/26/2011	3/27/2011	4/10/2011	$1,679.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	4/2/2011	4/3/2011	4/17/2011	$1,679.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	4/9/2011	4/10/2011	4/24/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	4/16/2011	4/17/2011	5/1/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	4/23/2011	4/24/2011	5/8/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	4/30/2011	5/1/2011	5/15/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	5/7/2011	5/8/2011	5/22/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	5/14/2011	5/15/2011	5/29/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	5/21/2011	5/22/2011	6/5/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	5/28/2011	5/29/2011	6/12/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	6/4/2011	6/5/2011	6/19/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	6/11/2011	6/12/2011	6/26/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	6/18/2011	6/19/2011	7/3/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	6/25/2011	6/26/2011	7/10/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	7/2/2011	7/3/2011	7/17/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	7/9/2011	7/10/2011	7/24/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	7/16/2011	7/17/2011	7/31/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	7/23/2011	7/24/2011	8/7/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	7/30/2011	7/31/2011	8/14/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	8/6/2011	8/7/2011	8/21/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	8/13/2011	8/14/2011	8/28/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	8/20/2011	8/21/2011	9/4/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	8/27/2011	8/28/2011	9/11/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	9/3/2011	9/4/2011	9/18/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	9/10/2011	9/11/2011	9/25/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	9/17/2011	9/18/2011	10/2/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	9/24/2011	9/25/2011	10/9/2011	$1,729.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	10/1/2011	10/2/2011	10/16/2011	$1,675.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	10/8/2011	10/9/2011	10/23/2011	$1,675.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	10/15/2011	10/16/2011	10/30/2011	$1,675.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	10/22/2011	10/23/2011	11/6/2011	$1,619.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	10/29/2011	10/30/2011	11/13/2011	$1,619.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	11/5/2011	11/6/2011	11/20/2011	$1,585.00	Book Now!
Early Booking*	12/13/2011	12/14/2011	12/28/2011	$1,599.00	Book Now!

Popular Departure - due to itinerary and time of year, this departure historically sells out quickly. Early booking is encouraged.