Compare Highlights of Central Europe by Intrepid Travel vs Imperial Splendors by Globus
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| Trip |
4.5 | Great
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 8 days | 10 days |
| Price From | $ 2,040 | $ 3,199 |
| Price Per Day | $ 255 | $ 320 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Premium | Premium |
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| Countries Visited | ||
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | No |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
Travel through the Czech Republic, Austria and Hungary and experience some of the best bits of Central Europe. From the sleekness of Vienna, and from the architectural triumphs of Prague to the contrasting twin cities of Budapest, see how history, folklore and tradition are threaded through the fabric of modern life. Visit centuries-old castles, be spoilt by greenery in urban jungles, fall in love with Bohemian fairytale towns, marvel at the artistic talents of European masters and dig into a Hungarian feast cooked by a local family, especially for you. This adventure has it all. |
The over-the-top homes. The complicated relationships. The relentless quest for power. Ruling Austria—and later the Austro-Hungarian Empire—for nearly 650 years, the Habsburgs formed one of history’s greatest, yet often overlooked, European dynasties. This fascinating tour of Central Europe traces the family’s steps—and missteps—as you enjoy the imperial sights of Prague, Budapest, and Vienna with additional overnights in melodious Salzburg and lively Munich. Ornate castles and cathedrals, stunning palaces and parks, and gorgeous gardens and grounds provide glimpse into the intriguing lives and lavish lifestyles of one of history’s most powerful and controversial families. In-depth sightseeing and a cruise along the legendary Danube offer varied vantage points to witness the magnificent marks this royal family left on Central Europe. |
Day 1 Prague
Vítejte v Praze! Welcome to Prague, the City of a Hundred Spires and the capital of the Czech Republic. Meet your new travel buddies and group leader at 6 pm for a welcome meeting. Afterwards, you might like to head out for a special welcome dinner together. You could tuck into a delicious meal at a Czech pub and enjoy traditional food like sausages, dumplings and salads, and fresh, crisp beer straight from the tank – just like a local. Did you know that the beer in the Czech Republic has three colours? Gold, amber and black – we recommend you try them all to see which one you like best.
Day 2 Prague
Head to Prague Castle this morning and spend time exploring the Old Royal Palace, St Vitus’ Cathedral, St George’s Basilica and the colourful Golden Lane. Then, get a taste for Czech cuisine as you tuck into lunch at a local canteen that proudly serves up traditional dishes. There'll be plenty of lunching locals if you want to copy their order for the best dishes on offer. The rest of the day is free to do as you wish. You could wander the countless museums, or stroll the cobblestone streets, perhaps, café-hopping as you go. In the evening, maybe grab dinner with your new travel companions or hit the town solo. Your leader will have some great recommendations, no matter what you feel like.
Day 3 Cesky Krumlov
Depart Prague today and travel by local bus to the southern Bohemian town of Cesky Krumlov. This picturesque medieval town dates back to the 13th century and is like something out of a fairy-tale. Cesky Krumlov (pronounced 'Chess-kee Kroom-love') means 'crooked meadow', which is befitting of a town that's nestled in a sharp bend of the Vltava River. Today, join a local guide for a walking tour of the town and hear tales of the mysteries that lie behind every shopfront and house on the crooked little streets. Later you might like to visit the town's castle or art gallery, or head out on an optional cycling or canoeing excursion.
Day 4 Vienna
Depart Cesky Krumlov by private minivan this morning and cross the border into Austria, continuing to the cosmopolitan city of Vienna. Join your leader for a walk through the city's compact centre. Stop at the gothic-style St Stephens Cathedral, wander past the grand neo-classical Graben and onwards to the Hofburg Palace. Stop by Vollpension, where you can be treated to sweet eats just like your grandma made. This café aims to bridge the generation gap and bring people together through food by employing baking masters who happen to be ‘grandmas and grandpas’ to bake the freshest cakes in all of Vienna. Then, finish your orientation of the city at the State Opera House, one of the world's most important opera houses and the heart of classical Viennese culture. Art lovers have a vast choice of museums, from the Albertina to those located in the Museum Quarter. In the evening, perhaps head out for some Viennese cuisine.
Day 5 Vienna
Wake up without an alarm today as you have the whole of today to explore Vienna and its surrounds at your leisure. You might like to head out to Schoenbrunn for a guided audio tour of the summer palace, designed by Empress Maria Theresa. The Gloriette Monument has incredible views of Vienna and the palace gardens are free to all visitors, although there is a charge for entrance and tours of the palace. Vienna is a beautiful city, so try to capture its essence as best you can while you're here.
Day 6 Budapest
Today, you’ll take a scenic train journey across the border into Hungary to reach Budapest. Since the collapse of Communism, Budapest has experienced something of a renaissance. This afternoon is free for you to enjoy everything Budapest has to offer. It's the spa capital of the world so if you want to do nothing more than soak all day, you won't be judged here. In the evening, enjoy a home-cooked Hungarian meal with a local family. You'll be invited into their family home to enjoy a drink and snack on fresh vegetables, cheese, bread and homemade sausages in the garden. After whetting your appetite, you'll get a chance to roll up your sleeves and join the family in the kitchen to learn some of their Hungarian cooking specialties with a cooking masterclass. Then, tuck into your freshly prepared meal and enjoy dinner with your new-found friends and host family. Toast your Hungarian arrival with a taste of palinka, Hungarian fruit brandy.Perhaps rejoin the group for a farewell dinner.
Day 7 Budapest
Dive deeper into Budapest with a walking tour with a local guide to explore some of the city’s most interesting sights. There's no one better to show you all of the best spots and give you local insights like someone who lives here so be sure to follow closely and ask your local guide any of your burning questions about Budapest. You'll see the Hungarian State Opera House, St. Stephen's Church and The Chain Bridge. The grand architecture and boulevards evoke a time gone by, while glamorous stores and glitzy restaurants make this one of the truly great cities of Europe. You’ll enjoy views of the Freedom Statute and the Citadel, Gellért spa baths and Buda castle along your walk today. The remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy.
Day 8 Budapest
Your adventure comes to an end today. There are no more activities planned and you're able to depart the accommodation at any time. As there's not much time in Budapest, it's recommended that you stay an extra few nights so you can truly experience this beautiful city. If you need help booking additional accommodation, our reservations team can help (subject to availability).
Day 1: ARRIVE IN MUNICH, GERMANY
Welcome to Munich! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (Dinner)
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Day 2: MUNICH–PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
The Heart of a City MUNICH Orientation tour includes the Marienplatz. Free time before continuing to Prague. (Breakfast,Dinner) 255 mi / 410 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURE & TRADITION Experience the geographical and cultural heart of Munich at its Marienplatz, the town square since 1158. Stroll through the home of historic buildings, including the Old and New Town Halls in the picturesque heart and soul of the city.
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Day 3: PRAGUE
The Golden City PRAGUE Guided sightseeing features the Astronomical Clock and the Hradčany Castle grounds. Free time this afternoon and evening. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURAL 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 Hradčany Castle, considered to be the world’s largest ancient castle complex.
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Day 4: PRAGUE–BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA–BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Serenity in Slovakia BRATISLAVA Orientation walk and free time before continuing to Budapest. (Breakfast,Dinner) 329 mi / 530 km
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. Whilst hearing about the historic area, look out for “Cumil” one the city’s most photographed inhabitants- the bronze statue of a man climbing out of a manhole.
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Day 5: BUDAPEST
The Pearl of the Danube BUDAPEST Guided sightseeing includes the Matthias Coronation Church and Heroes’ Square. Free time this afternoon and evening. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHTPICTURE PERFECT Since the wedding of King Matthias I, the church bearing his name has continued to host royal weddings and coronation ceremonies within its grand Neo-Gothic walls. From Matthias Coronation Church, you’ll also take in the perfect view of Fisherman’s Bastion with its seven towers overlooking the Danube River.
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Day 6: BUDAPEST–VIENNA, AUSTRIA
The City of Music VIENNA Free time for lunch. Guided sightseeing features a drive along the famous Ringstrasse and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. (Breakfast) 174 mi / 280 km
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.
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Day 7: VIENNA
City of Dreams VIENNA Enjoy free day in beautiful Vienna. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURE & TRADITION Fall in love with the Austrian city that has played a key role throughout history. It is easy to see how musical geniuses such as Mozart and Strauss were inspired by this captivating city.
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Day 8: VIENNA–SALZBURG
Austrian Accents KREMS [LF] Danube cruise with a Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake) tasting.SALZBURG Guided walking tour features Mirabell Gardens and Residenz Square. Dinner at St. Peter Stiftskeller restaurant. (Breakfast,Dinner) 211 mi / 340 km
LOCAL FAVORITE EPIC RIDE Sit back and relax for a leisurely cruise along one of the most scenic sections of the Danube River. Whilst watching the world pass by, indulge in another Austrian tradition- a cup of Kaffee and a delicious piece of Kuchen. Wunderbar!
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Day 9: SALZBURG–MUNICH, GERMANY
Mozart’s Birthplace & Mugs of Beer SALZBURG Enjoy free time this morning.MUNICH Join a farewell dinner at the Ratskeller restaurant followed by a visit to the [LF] Hofbräuhaus. (Breakfast,Dinner) 106 mi / 170 km
LOCAL FAVORITE LOCAL TASTES If steins and suds are on your mind, then Munich is the place to sip and socialize at the legendary Hofbräuhaus. Raise a glass to your fantastic European vacation and the new and wonderful friends you’ve made along the way. Prost!
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Day 10: MUNICH
Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)
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