Highlights of Eastern Europe
Highlights of Eastern Europe
Highlights of Eastern Europe
17 Days Starting and ending in Vienna, Austria
Visiting: Vienna, Ljubljana, Lake Bled, Zagreb, Budapest, Kraków, Warsaw, Berlin, Prague
Tour operator:
Tour code:
CHEEZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Rail Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Eastern Europe with the "Highlights of Eastern Europe" tour. This cultural adventure begins and ends in Vienna, taking you through the enchanting landscapes and vibrant cities of Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Hungary, Slovakia, Poland, Germany, and the Czech Republic. Discover the architectural wonders of Vienna, Ljubljana, and Prague, and delve into the rich history of Budapest, Kraków, and Berlin. Experience the serene beauty of Lake Bled and Lake Balaton, and reflect on history at Auschwitz. Enjoy unique experiences like a wine tasting at Austria's first carbon-neutral winery and a traditional Hungarian dinner with the Schieszl family. With expert guides, luxury accommodations, and a host of included meals and activities, this tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Eastern Europe's cultural and historical treasures.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Vienna Stays With Stories
Location: Vienna
Accommodation: Imperial Riding School
Accommodation Name: Imperial Riding School
Tune into the enchanting musical heritage of Vienna, your launch pad to a grand adventure through the highlights of Eastern Europe. This afternoon, join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing walking tour of Old Town Vienna, revealing insights into the Habsburg dynasty, once one of the most influential royal houses of Europe. Admire the Hofburg Palace, Imperial Boulevards and the beloved St. Stephen's Cathedral, with its colorful tiled roof. This evening, we join our Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception to kick off our exciting holiday.
Day 2: Journey To Ljubljana
Location: Ljubljana
Accommodation: One66
Accommodation Name: One66
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We cross the border to Slovenia. Join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour to see Ljubljana's Opera House, Cathedral, Three Bridges Square and Castle. This evening, we dine at our hotel.
Day 3: Lake Bled
Location: Lake Bled
Accommodation: One66
Accommodation Name: One66
Meals Included: Breakfast
Arrive at Lake Bled, an exquisite natural retreat set against the backdrop of forests and mountains. During your free time, you could consider taking a boat trip on its crystal clear waters to admire the castle, which clings dramatically to a cliff rising up from the lake's edge.
Day 4: Discover Historic Zagreb
Location: Zagreb
Accommodation: Westin
Accommodation Name: Zonar Zagreb
Meals Included: Breakfast
We cross into Croatia and travel to its capital, Zagreb – our home for the next two nights. Join a Local Specialist who will share the landmarks of the city's Lower and Upper Town, including the Gothic Cathedral, the Archbishop's Palace, the Opera House and St. Mark's Church, with its exquisitely colored roof. You'll have a free evening to spend as you wish. Consider heading to Tkalčićeva Street to enjoy the lively evening atmosphere.
Day 5: Zagreb Your Way
Location: Zagreb
Accommodation: Westin
Accommodation Name: Zonar Zagreb
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Take time to explore a tale of two hilltop settlements and Zagreb's scenic cityscape, to this day lit by gas lamps in the Upper Town. Spend the day on your own, paying homage to the patron saint of Zagreb at its Stone Gate, or enjoying the city views from Strossmartre.
Day 6: Onwards To Lake Balaton And Budapest
Location: Budapest
Accommodation: Ensana Thermal Margaret Island
Accommodation Name: Ensana Thermal Margaret Island
Meals Included: Breakfast
Crossing the border into Hungary, we enjoy a photo stop on the shores of Lake Balaton, the largest lake in Central Europe and affectionately known by locals as the 'Hungarian Sea'. We continue to the romantic capital of Budapest – our home for the next two nights. Perhaps, sail along the Danube on a scenic river cruise, enjoy a dinner of traditional Hungarian dishes and breath-taking views, or relax in the healing waters of the Szecheyni Spa Bath as the sun sets.
Day 7: Explore Architectural Budapest
Location: Budapest
Accommodation: Ensana Thermal Margaret Island
Accommodation Name: Ensana Thermal Margaret Island
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, we join a Local Specialist for a walking tour of the Castle district to admire picture-perfect views of the Danube and Fisherman's Bastion. Cross the Danube to continue your sightseeing in Pest, seeing the imposing Parliament and the Great Synagogue, the largest in Europe. This evening we meet a local family of winemakers, who pride themselves on their organic production. Enjoy their home smoked Mangalica ham and hear their unique family story at our BMG Experience.
Day 8: Off To Slovakia And On To Kraków
Location: Kraków
Accommodation: Novotel Centrum
Accommodation Name: Novotel Centrum
Meals Included: Breakfast
The exquisite natural landscape of Slovakia provides a scenic backdrop for our journey to Poland, past the foothills of the Tatra Mountains. We arrive in the enchanting city of Kraków. Consider an evening of lively Polish entertainment with dinner, or perhaps visit a traditional Polish Wódka Bar.
Day 9: Admire Kraków’S Charms
Location: Kraków
Accommodation: Novotel Centrum
Accommodation Name: Novotel Centrum
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
A leisurely walk through the beautiful streets of Kraków today with our Local Specialist will include such highlights as the Royal Castle and Cathedral on Wawel Hill, recognised as the most historically and culturally significant site in Poland. We continue through the Old Town to hear the bugle warning from St. Mary's Church and view of the Cloth Hall. Spend the afternoon exploring the city on your own or consider visiting a traditional milk bar. Enjoy a slice of Polish sernik babci in the Old Town Square or join an Optional Experience to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, where underground chambers are hewn out of rock salt. This evening, we dine at our hotel.
Day 10: On To Auschwitz And Warsaw
Location: Warsaw
Accommodation: Leonardo Royal
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Sobieski
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Our journey this morning takes us to the former concentration camp at Auschwitz, a poignant reminder of the horrors perpetrated during the Holocaust. This evening, we arrive in the elegant Polish capital of Warsaw, where we will dine at our hotel.
Day 11: See The Sights Of Warsaw
Location: Warsaw
Accommodation: Leonardo Royal
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Sobieski
Meals Included: Breakfast
Connect with the youthful energy of Warsaw, a city that has triumphed over the tragedy of war and the shackles of communism. This morning, we join a Local Specialist visiting the Old Town, which the Nazis destroyed to retaliate against the Warsaw Uprising. You'll also see the site of the Warsaw Ghetto, immortalized in the Roman Polanski film – 'The Pianist'. Spend the rest of the day exploring the sights on your own, or celebrate the talents of Chopin during a private recital of Chopin's works.
Day 12: Journey To Bustling Berlin
Location: Berlin
Accommodation: Moevenpick
Accommodation Name: AC by Marriott
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey across Poland's patchwork countryside along the Autostrada Wolności (Motorway of Freedom) which was first initiated by Nazi Germany to connect Berlin with Poland and left unfinished for decades after World War II. Continue west into Germany and arrive in Berlin, a capital city with an enviable youthful verve and charisma. Here you’ll enjoy an evening at leisure to explore the city your way, or join us for a truly memorable optional evening in former West Berlin.
Day 13: Uncover Berlin’S Secrets
Location: Berlin
Accommodation: Moevenpick
Accommodation Name: AC by Marriott
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, witness spectacular panoramic views of the city from the Berlin TV Tower. Then join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour through the city's great landmarks, including the Neoclassical Brandenburg Gate, Unter den Linden Boulevard and the Reichstag Building, lovingly restored after it fell into disuse after World War II. Spend the afternoon people-watching on Friedrichstrasse with an Fassbrause or join an Optional Experience to discover Berlin’s turbulent past.
Day 14: Onwards To Dresden And Prague
Location: Prague
Accommodation: Vienna House Diplomat
Accommodation Name: Vienna House Diplomat
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel through the Spreewald Forest to Dresden - its iconic domes and spires almost entirely rebuilt after the Allied Forces left their deep scars on the city during World War II. Hear about its restoration during your orientation tour as you stroll through its streets to see the Semper Opera, Zwinger Palace and fully reconstructed Frauenkirche. We leave Germany behind and travel to the Czech Republic, arriving later in glorious Prague, straddling the mighty Vltava. Spend your evening savoring hearty Czech flavors during a Regional Dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 15: Discover Colorful Prague
Location: Prague
Accommodation: Vienna House Diplomat
Accommodation Name: Vienna House Diplomat
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore exquisite Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque façades as you ramble through the ancient streets of Prague with your Local Specialist who will share insights into the city's centuries-old history. Marvel at Prague Castle and the Cathedral of St Vitus, then pass the Old New Synagogue on our way to the Old Town Square. Don't miss the hourly walk of the Apostles at the famous Astronomical Clock during your free time exploring. Perhaps indulge in some delicious sweet pastry Trdelník in the Old Town Square, admire the view from Petřín Hill or consider a relaxing cruise on the Vltava.
Day 16: Through Southern Bohemia To Vienna
Location: Vienna
Accommodation: Hilton Danube Waterfront
Accommodation Name: Imperial Riding School
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey through the lush green and golden landscapes of southern Bohemia, stopping in Tábor, once a Hussite stronghold. Later, we travel to the imperial city of Vienna, where we'll take part in a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and enjoy a final Farewell Dinner together with our fellow travelers and Travel Director.
Day 17: Farewell Vienna
Location: Vienna
Meals Included: Breakfast
Say a fond farewell to your newfound friends and an epic adventure together through eastern Europe.
What's Included
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
The tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional Driver.
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Accommodation is provided in carefully selected hotels that are tried and trusted.
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All porterage and restaurant gratuities
Porterage and gratuities at restaurants are included in the tour package.
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All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered in the tour.
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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Daily breakfast and up to half of the evening meals are included.
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
The tour includes must-see sightseeing and surprise extras.
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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing experiences.
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Travel is in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi available in most countries, or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Optional Experiences and free time
The tour offers optional experiences and free time for personal exploration.
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On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
If necessary, hotels of similar standard and location may be used.
What's Not Included
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Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
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Visa fees
Visa fees and arrangements are not included and are the responsibility of the traveler.
Dining Summary
- 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
- 16 Breakfast (B)
- 7 Dinner (D)
Mode of Transport
Travel in luxury with an air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi in most countries, or enjoy alternative transportation options such as rail journeys, ensuring a comfortable and connected experience.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels, including the Imperial Riding School in Vienna, One66 in Ljubljana, Zonar Zagreb in Croatia, and Ensana Thermal Margaret Island in Budapest, ensuring comfort and quality throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a wine tasting at Stift Klosterneuburg in Vienna, which is a leader in sustainability and the first carbon neutral winery in Austria. Additionally, there is a 'Be My Guest' experience in Budapest where you join the Schieszl family for a hearty Hungarian dinner and hear the story of their winery that dates back to the 19th century.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Are there any special dining experiences included?
Yes, the tour includes a Welcome Reception, daily breakfasts, and up to half of your evening meals. There are also special dining experiences such as a Regional Dinner in Prague and a Farewell Dinner in Vienna.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
The tour includes stays at cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted. On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
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What are some of the key historical sites visited on this tour?
Key historical sites include the former concentration camp at Auschwitz, the Royal Castle and Cathedral on Wawel Hill in Kraków, and the Old Town of Warsaw, which was destroyed during World War II and later rebuilt.
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What kind of sightseeing is included in the tour?
The tour includes must-see sightseeing with a Local Specialist in cities like Vienna, Ljubljana, Zagreb, Budapest, Kraków, Warsaw, Berlin, and Prague. It also includes visits to landmarks such as the Berlin TV Tower, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the Old Town Square of Prague.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions