Easy Pace Budapest, Vienna & Prague
These three capitals, lush with magnificent cathedrals, imperial palaces and majestic castles, stand at the geographical heart of mainland Europe, their history and culture intertwined by the powerful Habsburg dynasty.
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Your Journey Begins
Board your overnight flight to Europe (not included). -
Welcome to Budapest.
On arrival at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, enjoy a complimentary transfer to your hotel at 10:00, 13:00 or 15:30. Meet your Travel Director and travel companions at 18:00 for a drink. Tonight you are in for a treat with your Welcome Dinner at Gundel, one of Budapest's most renowned restaurants for over a hundred years. Dine in elegance as you savor hearty, Hungarian delicacies accompanied with specially-selected Hungarian wine.
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Budapest, Queen of the Danube.
Drive along the elegant boulevards en route to Heroes' Square. Walk with your Local Expert along the medieval cobblestone streets of the Castle district to visit Matthias Church and admire sweeping views from the Fisherman's Bastion over the exquisite Parliament building. Make your way to a traditional Strudel House to see pastry chefs at work, as they prepare delicious sweet strudel by stretching the dough and readying fillings. Enjoy a delectable taste of this famous delicacy paired with a rich aromatic coffee. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city at your leisure. This evening, perhaps you could stop for an aperitif at a typical Pálinka bar in the old city or maybe opt for a glittering dinner cruise along the Danube?
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Free Time in Budapest and Dinner with the Locals
The day is at leisure to immerse yourself in Budapest's history, culture and gastronomy. Perhaps, visit a thermal bath (an institution in Budapest), spend time browsing the boutiques on Vaci Street or relax in a sidewalk cafe. In the evening, you are invited by one of the locals to a Dine-at-Home experience. Sit down to a hearty Hungarian meal and learn about life in this enchanting city.
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Along the Danube to Szentendre and on to Stately Vienna.
Travel past the remains of the Roman settlement of Aquincum and along the Danube to the picturesque riverside village of Szentendre. This community has long been the haunt of artists, enchanted by its brightly-coloured houses and quaint churches. Then, journey westward for a stop in the pretty town of Győr, located on the confluence of the Danube, Rába and Rábca rivers. Cross the border and continue to stately Vienna, known for its elegant coffee houses and lavish architecture steeped in history. This evening, choose from a selection of restaurants for your Dine-Around Evening.
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Vienna and the Habsburgs.
Much of Vienna's present day charm is due to the long reign of the Habsburgs, so in the morning, join a Local Expert for a private visit of Maria Theresa's Schönbrunn Palace and formal gardens. Then get your camera ready for a drive around the famous Ring Road. This grand boulevard, built along the lines of the old city walls, showcases many of the capital's architectural masterpieces, including the Opera House, magnificent Hofburg Imperial Residence and Parliament Building. The afternoon is at leisure. -
Vienna at Leisure.
Take the day to discover the regal grandeur of Vienna at your own pace. Perhaps start with St. Stephen's Cathedral, one of Europe's great Gothic structures? Or browse the shops of the bustling Kärntnerstrasse? You may wish to add another capital to your travels with a visit across the Slovakian border to Bratislava. Ask your Travel Director to recommend local attractions and restaurants, as you appreciate the long, warm summer evening in European style.
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Charming Český Krumlov and Golden Prague.
Once over the Czech border, continue to picturesque Český Krumlov. Get your bearings with an included orientation before having free time to explore this fairytale vision from the Middle Ages, nestled amid a loop in the Vltava River. Wander through the cobblestone, traffic-free streets, past colourful houses that lead up to the finest castle in the land. In the afternoon, continue through the green Bohemian countryside to Prague.
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Prague, City of a Hundred Spires.
Join a Local Expert for a guided visit to one of the most beautiful and intact historical centres in Europe. Start with the 1,000-year-old Prague Castle, where you can admire the stained glass of St Vitus Cathedral and enjoy amazing views over the Old Town. Finish in the Old Town Square where the mechanical antics of the Astronomical Clock's glockenspiel delight onlookers each hour. The city is then all yours to explore. Maybe take a river cruise through the heart of the city or walk in the footsteps of kings along the Royal Route? Czechs are passionate about their beer so be sure to try the local lagers, along with the Czech cuisine.
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Prague at Leisure.
No doubt you've anticipated spending quality time among the winding, cobbled lanes so your penultimate day is completely free. With your hotel located in the castle district, enjoy time to experience the real Prague, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. In the evening, tantalise your taste buds with a rousing Celebration Dinner of local specialties at a prized Prague restaurant. Dobrou chuť!
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Depart Prague.
Your tour comes to an end after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Prague Airport at 08:00 & 10:00.
30 Day Refund Guarantee
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Definite Departure
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Apr 18 | 15 Apr 18 |
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$2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 12 Apr 18 | 22 Apr 18 | $2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 19 Apr 18 | 29 Apr 18 | $2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 26 Apr 18 | 6 May 18 | $2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 3 May 18 | 13 May 18 |
|
$2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 10 May 18 | 20 May 18 | $2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 17 May 18 | 27 May 18 | $2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 24 May 18 | 3 Jun 18 |
|
$2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 31 May 18 | 10 Jun 18 | $2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 7 Jun 18 | 17 Jun 18 | $2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 14 Jun 18 | 24 Jun 18 |
|
$2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 21 Jun 18 | 1 Jul 18 |
|
$2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 28 Jun 18 | 8 Jul 18 | $2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 5 Jul 18 | 15 Jul 18 | $2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 12 Jul 18 | 22 Jul 18 | $2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 19 Jul 18 | 29 Jul 18 | $2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 26 Jul 18 | 5 Aug 18 | $2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 2 Aug 18 | 12 Aug 18 |
|
$2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 9 Aug 18 | 19 Aug 18 | $2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 16 Aug 18 | 26 Aug 18 | $2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 23 Aug 18 | 2 Sep 18 |
|
$2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 30 Aug 18 | 9 Sep 18 | $2,675$2,408pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 6 Sep 18 | 16 Sep 18 |
|
$2,675$2,408pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 13 Sep 18 | 23 Sep 18 | $2,675$2,408pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 20 Sep 18 | 30 Sep 18 |
|
$2,675$2,408pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 27 Sep 18 | 7 Oct 18 | $2,675$2,408pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 4 Oct 18 | 14 Oct 18 |
|
$2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 11 Oct 18 | 21 Oct 18 | $2,650$2,385pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 | Request Quote Book Now |
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Single Room Supplement: from $790 p.p.
Triple Room Discount: $10 p.p.
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $116 per person.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
Past Travelers: Save an additional 5% off the Land Only price of the vacation.
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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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Cultural Enrichment
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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VIP Access
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
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Hotel Tips
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Most Meals
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Personal Flight Options
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
9 Buffet Breakfasts (BB) and 1 Morning Tea (MT); plus 1 Welcome Dinner (WD), 1 Dine-Around (DA), 1 three-course table d'hôte Dinner (DW) and 1 Celebration Dinner (CD) all with wine, plus tea or coffee.
Signature Experiences
Budapest:
- With a Local Expert, visit the colourful Matthias Church and gaze out over the Danube and giant domed Parliament from the heights of the Fisherman's Bastion.
Vienna:
- The sheer opulence of Schönbrunn Palace indulges your senses. Stand beneath frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gilded Rococo frames where Mozart performed as a six-year-old prodigy.
Prague:
- Bewitched by the gargoyles of St. Vitus Cathedral and ghosts of Bohemian Kings, experience a private tour through the atmospheric courtyards of Prague Castle.
Reviews
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Passports and Visas
U.S. citizens traveling to the Czech Republic, Austria and Hungary must have a current passport that is valid for six months beyond the conclusion of their trip. You can find information on how to apply for a passport here, and how to renew a passport here. No visa is required for U.S. citizens entering these countries.
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Currency
The currency in the Czech Republic is the Koruna, in Austria is the Euro, and in Hungary is the Forint. While it’s a good idea to bring some money for when you first arrive on your trip, you’ll usually find a better exchange rate in your destination. The most convenient way to obtain cash is to use your ATM card at local banks in the Czech Republic, Austria and Hungary. We recommend you also bring a valid credit card for purchases while you are traveling. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
If you like meat and potatoes, chances are you’ll love the food in the Czech Republic. The country is also known for its long-standing tradition for beer. Most towns have at least one brewery, so it’s no surprise that the Czech consume more beer per capita than any other country. In Austria you’ll find more hearty cuisine, but nothing beats the desserts. Try delicious treats like Viennese Sachertorte (dense chocolate cake) and apple strudel. In Hungary you’ll find hearty specialties including goulash, winter salami, pork stew, and chicken paprikash.
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Packing
We suggest packing a variety of lightweight clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress. It’s important to bring comfortable walking shoes and a waterproof jacket. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Tipping
When dining out it’s appropriate to leave up to 10 percent gratuity for good service at restaurants.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend €3.00 per person/per day for your driver and €5.00 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 euros per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 48 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Budapest
Danube Cruise Dinner & Drinks
Adult Price: € 61.00
The most leisurely way to discover this fairy-tale city is a private cruise on the Danube with a glass of fine Hungarian wine in hand. See Margaret Island, the Houses of Parliament, Castle Hill with its Fisherman’s Bastion, the Royal Palace, the Citadel and the University. While cruising, enjoy a lavish, gourmet buffet meal of Hungarian specialties and unlimited drinks.
Hungarian Sparkling Wine and Dinner
Adult Price: € 59.00
Journeying south of Budapest takes us through one of the main wine growing regions of Hungary, to the small village of Etyek. With a climate similar to Bordeaux in France, this region is a great producer of excellent sparkling wines. Be the guest of a small family stone cellar dating back to the 19th century. Learn about how they make the best product on the market, Etyeki sparkling wine, while tasting local specialities, including Gulyas soup washed down with local wines.
The Opera House, Market Hall and Gellert Hill
Adult Price: € 35.00
The Hungarian State Opera House has survived untouched since its grand opening in 1884 and is well worth a visit. After a guided tour through the impressive interior, we'll head for central Market Hall. Its three stories are packed with aromatic food stalls offering delicious salamis, spicy paprika and great Hungarian wines. Later we drive up to Gellert Hill to enjoy the most spectacular viewpoint in this stunning city.
Vienna
Gala Viennese Concert
Adult Price: € 54.00
Enjoy a wonderful concert of Viennese Classical music performed by highly acclaimed soloists and dancers. During this special evening, enjoy a glass of champagne along with some of the most famous works by Johann Strauss and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. (On occasion dinner will be included EURO 99)
Hidden Treasures Of Old Vienna Walk
Adult Price: € 30.00
A leisurely walk with an expert historian unveils the hidden squares and tucked-away corners of the old city. See the Hofburg Palace, which was the official residence of the Habsburg Empire for more then 600 years. Admire the beautiful baroque Church of St. Peter's and the Column of the Holy Trinity. See the most important House of Mozart, where "Marriage of Figaro" was composed. Finally, visit St. Stephen's Cathedral where your local expert explains its importance to Austrian culture and history.
Dinner In A Country Mansion
Adult Price: € 62.00
Cross the Danube, passing the famous Prater Park en route to one of Austria's most famous restaurants. Former patrons include Napoleon, the Emperor Franz Joseph, Liz Taylor and Arnold Schwarzenegger. Once through the door of this historic country mansion you're transported to a different world! Old memorabilia, autographed photos and other paraphernalia cover the ceilings, walls and even the rest rooms. Choose from traditional Austrian fare, enjoy unlimited drinks and be serenaded by musicians at your table. A fun-filled experience never to be forgotten!
Excursion To Bratislava
Adult Price: € 43.00
The Slovakian capital of Bratislava is only a short drive from Vienna. During its long history, the city has belonged to Austria, Hungary and Czechoslovakia - in fact, it was even the Hungarian capital for a time. Our local expert will take us for a leisurely walk through the old town showing you all its fascinating sites. Then some free time before we head back to Vienna.
Heurigen Dinner & Kahlenberg
Adult Price: € 58.00
A short drive takes us through the edge of Vienna Woods to the Kahlenberg Mountain for spectacular views over Vienna and its surround. Then we head to the characteristic Wine village of Grinzing for a traditional 'heurigen Dinner' with the locals and Schrammel music. This optional will occasionally be offered without dinner for €30.
Prague
Magical Prague
Adult Price: € 38.00
Enjoy as sights of Prague glide by during a private cruise on The Vltava River. Next discover on foot the hidden world of Prague's Malá Strana district accompanied by our expert local guide. Continue over famous Charles Bridge. A refreshment is included.
Traditional Dinner & Folklore Entertainment
Adult Price: € 55.00
Hearty and delicious, Czech cuisine borrows heavily from its Central European neighbours, but also boasts a few unique twists of its own. In a local restaurant, enjoy a traditional Czech meal accompanied by the planet's most perfect pilsner. During dinner, lively musicians in traditional dress set the mood with songs and dances from Bohemia, Moravia and Slovakia.
Day Trip To Dresden
Adult Price: € 62.00
Cross into Germany to explore the beautiful baroque city of Dresden, known as the “Florence on the Elbe” due to its artistic and architectural jewels. A local expert shows you the Cathedral, Semper Opera House, Zwinger Palace, and you witness the treasures assembled by Saxon princes over the centuries in the Green Vault. There is free time for lunch and shopping before returning via the Ore Mountains.
