Harmony of Central Europe
14 Days from $5,525 per person
From the beginning, Harmony of Central Europe brings every element of your ideal vacation into perfect harmony. After walking in the steps of a 6-year-old Mozart at a specially arranged, out-of-hours visit to the glittering Schönbrunn Palace, take your seats for a Michelin-starred meal that is a virtuoso performance all its own. Savor every note as you indulge with samples from the First Strudel House of Pest before boarding a private champagne cruise on the ‘blue' Danube. Let Insight place you front and center for the finest performances this melodious region has to offer.
Overview
From the beginning, Harmony of Central Europe brings every element of your ideal vacation into perfect harmony. After walking in the steps of a 6-year-old Mozart at a specially arranged, out-of-hours visit to the glittering Schönbrunn Palace, take your seats for a Michelin-starred meal that is a virtuoso performance all its own. Savor every note as you indulge with samples from the First Strudel House of Pest before boarding a private champagne cruise on the ‘blue' Danube. Let Insight place you front and center for the finest performances this melodious region has to offer.
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Day 1: Your Journey Begins.
Board your overnight flight to Europe (not included). -
Day 2: Welcome to Prague.
On arrival at Prague's Václav Havel Airport, you will be met and transferred to your exquisite hotel. Join your Travelling Concierge for a Welcome Reception, drinks and dinner at Bastion Restaurant, famous for its top-class views, menu and service.
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Day 3: The City of a Hundred Spires.
Join a Local Expert in the atmospheric courtyards of Prague Castle. Visit St. Vitus Cathedral, bathed in a lustrous patina of stained glass, before strolling on to the Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square. This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure or join an included visit to Prague's Jewish Quarter. -
Day 4: Prague to Český Krumlov.
A scenic drive through Bohemia brings you to Český Krumlov. Walk through the tangled cobblestone streets and meet your Local Expert for a visit of the famous castle, one of the most important historic sites in Central Europe. Spend the rest of the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps heading back to your hotel for an indulgent treat at the wellness spa?
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Day 5: Melk Abbey and the Imperial Capital of Vienna.
Travel over the Austrian border, along the Danube past castle ruins, to Melk, for a guided walk to its famous abbey. Continue through the Wachau Valley, where the Danube meanders below forested cliffs and rolling vineyards. Stop to taste the refreshing wines made from the local Grüner, Veltliner and Riesling grapes. Arrive in Vienna, where the doors of the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace open to you for a VIP after-hours exclusive visit.
Chairman's Collection
If you are travelling on a Chairman's Collection departure, you will be privileged to a private reception with Princess Anita von Hohenberg, a descendant of the famous Habsburgs, at Artstetten Castle. This incredible experience will replace visiting Melk Abbey. -
Day 6: Vienna Woods Excursion and Classical Concert.
Travel through Vienna Woods to Mayerling, the scene of the tragic death of Crown Prince Rudolph. Visit the Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz, before walking through the imperial spa-town of Baden. Return along the wine road and spend some time at Kärntner Strasse, Vienna's most famous shopping street. Enjoy a highlight evening of sparkling wine and front-row seats at a classical music concert, followed by dinner at one of Vienna's amazing Michelin-starred restaurants.
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Day 7: Bratislava and Budapest, Grand Dames on the Danube.
Cross the border to reach the Slovakian capital of Bratislava. Explore the city, dominated by its imposing 9th century castle, with your Local Expert. Enjoy free time to take a leisurely walk through the Old Town to the Maximillian Fountain, before continuing to Hungary and the grand metropolis of Budapest. In the evening, dine at elegant Gundel, Hungary's most renowned restaurant, and sample local dishes and wine with a backdrop of traditional folk music.
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Day 8: The Jewel Box of Budapest and the Danube.
Wander along elegant boulevards with your Local Expert to see the Budapest Opera House, one of the most beautiful neo-Renaissance buildings in Europe. Cross the Danube to Gellért Hill for sweeping views of the city. Continue through the medieval Castle District to visit the Fisherman's Bastion and Matthias Church. At the First Studel House of Pest, admire how dough-stretching artisans work paper-thin crusts into delicious pastries and sample the local specialty. Your evening is at leisure.
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Day 9: Szentendre.
In the morning, travel past the Roman remains of Aquincum to storybook Szentendre. Spend time exploring this riverside village with enchanting, brightly-colored houses, quaint churches, art galleries, and lovely squares. Return to Budapest and enjoy the afternoon at your leisure. Perhaps stroll along the majestic River Danube or browse the Central Market Hall for traditional crafts and fare? In the evening, step aboard a private cruise for a voyage along the Danube complete with sparkling wine.
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Day 10: Through the Low Tatra to Kraków.
Enjoy a gentle drive into Slovakia and through the small villages of the Low Tatra, characterized by austere wooden churches and traditional folk houses. Continue past the Oravský Hrad Castle to Kraków, a city full of architectural wonder and legend. Enjoy the evening at your leisure, perhaps heading out for a traditional hunter's stew? Your Travelling Concierge knows the best restaurants and can assist you with reservations.
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Day 11: Exploring Kraków.
Join your Local Expert and cross the former Jewish Quarter to visit the factory immortalized in the film ‘Schindler's List.' You then ascend Wawel Hill to visit the cathedral, the final resting place of the Kings of Poland. In the evening, you’re invited to choose between a selection of local restaurants and authentic menus for your personalized dining experience.
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Day 12: Auschwitz, The Black Madonna & Warsaw.
Spend time reflecting on the past during a poignant visit to Auschwitz, the largest Nazi concentration camp of World War II. Pay your respects at the Auschwitz memorial and walk beneath the infamous gateway to the museums, housed in the former prison blocks. Journey north to the Monastery of Jasna Góra in Częstochowa, famous for its Black Madonna, said to have been painted by St. Luke. Continue across the plains to Warsaw with its jumble of restored Gothic and communist architecture, tumultuous history and vibrant cafe culture. On arrival, your Travelling Concierge checks you into your luxury hotel, situated on the famous Royal Route. With the evening at leisure, perhaps enjoy a candle-lit dinner at your hotel or explore the nearby Old Town Market?
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Day 13: Chopin and the Proud Polish Capital of Warsaw.
Join your Local Expert for an in-depth look at Warsaw. Visit the Chopin Monument and the Memorial of the Heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto. Explore the Old Town, a miracle of reconstruction, conservation and home to the Royal Castle. The afternoon is at your leisure. Perhaps head back to your hotel for afternoon tea or treat yourself to a massage at the spa? In the evening, witness an exclusive, private Chopin recital performed by a renowned pianist, followed by an atmospheric finale Celebration Dinner hosted at Halka. Raise a glass of local wine, as you toast to new memories and friendships, and savor traditional dishes.
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Day 14: Depart Warsaw.
After breakfast, bid farewell to your travel companions and transfer to Warsaw airport for your onward journey.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Definite Departure
- Special Small Group Departure
- Chairman's Collection
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Special Small Group Departure
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3 Sep 18 | 16 Sep 18 |
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$6,095pp | Request Quote Book Now | ||
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Chairman's Collection
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17 Sep 18 | 30 Sep 18 |
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$5,525pp | Request Quote Book Now |
- Special Small Group Departure: This departure indicates a tour limited to a small number of guests.
- Chairman's Collection: This departure includes a special royal dinner as part of Luxury Gold's Chairman Collection.
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 $1,400 p.p.
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.
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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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VIP Access
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
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Cultural Enrichment
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Hotel Tips
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Michelin Dining
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Most Meals
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Personal Flight Options
Included Dining
12 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 1 Lunch (L), 1 Afternoon Tea (AT) and 7 Dinners with Wine (DW) all with tea or coffee.
Signature Experiences
Prague:
- With a Local Expert, visit Prague Castle and St Vitus' Cathedral.
Melk:
- Enjoy a guided walk through the baroque splendor of the monastery.
Vienna:
- Indulge your senses during a special VIP after-hours visit to the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace. With a Local Expert, stand beneath
frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gilded Rococo frames where Mozart performed as a six-year-old prodigy. - Experience an evening with sparkling wine and front row seats at a classical music concert, followed by dinner at one of Vienna's
amazing Michelin-starred restaurants.
Vienna Woods:
- Visit the Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz before walking through the imperial spa-town of Baden.
Budapest:
- See the colorful Matthias Church and gaze out over the Danube.
- Step aboard a private cruise for an unforgettable voyage along the Danube. Enjoy sparkling wine and overlook the city's grandest
buildings lit-up at night.
Kraków:
- Ascend Wawel Hill with a Local Expert to visit the cathedral.
- Go to the factory immortalized in the film ‘Schindler's List'.
Auschwitz:
- Pay your respects at the Auschwitz memorial and walk beneath the infamous gateway to the museums housed in the former
prison blocks.
Czestochowa:
- View the Black Madonna at the Monastery of Jasna Gora.
Warsaw:
- Visit the Chopin Monument and Memorial of the Heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Passports and Visas
U.S. citizens traveling to the Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary and Poland 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, in Hungary is the Forint, and in Poland is the Zloty. 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, Hungary and Poland. 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. Poland offers even more rich and hearty. Be sure to sample the variety of delicious Pierogi dumplings stuffed with potatoes and cheese, mushrooms, meat, and even fruit.
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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 24 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.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
