Don’t let the glass and steel skyscrapers deceive you. At its heart, Frankfurt’s high-powered business hub communes with a warm medieval centre where half-timbered buildings and tiny taverns line cobbled lanes and the aroma of apple cider lingers around every turn. Here ‘Mainhattan’ meets medieval charm. This afternoon, your Travel Director will lead an orientation tour around the city’s dynamic financial centre and medieval Römerberg. See the Römer, which has served as Frankfurt’s city hall since the 15th century and admire the neo-medieval architecture that has been lovingly restored after World War II.
Leaving the high-rises behind, you’ll journey across the northern plains of Germany to the dynamic and energetic capital that is Berlin. This bold capital wears its grittiness for all to see – edgy street art adorns the city’s ever-evolving façades and street food markets reveal a cosmopolitan line-up of cultures and cuisines that make Berlin an exhilaratingly diverse city to explore. You’ll have time to explore this UNESCO 'City of Design' your way or consider joining an Optional Experience with good food, wine, beer and music followed by a twilight tour of some of Berlin's beautiful illuminations.
There's never a dull moment in Berlin. This city has endured more over the past century than most and yet you can almost feel its characteristic philosophy of ‘let the good times roll'. Kickstart your Berlin adventure this morning with your Local Specialist, who will bring the city’s history to life as you see the Reichstag building, German State Opera House, the Tiergarten, Unter den Linden and Brandenburg Gate, the iconic 18th-century military monument. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city your way or join an Optional Experience to uncover the secrets of the city's World War II and Cold War past. You could even choose to venture beyond the city for a dinner of German specialties in the countryside.
Leave the German Capital this morning travelling eastwards to greater Poland. Arrive in the Capital, Warsaw this evening for included dinner, and perhaps enjoy a recital of exquisite Chopin music on an optional experience.
This morning, perhaps enjoy an optional visit to the 17th-century Baroque Wilanów Palace, once the summer home of King Jan Sobieski III. Then, dive into Warsaw's turbulent past with a Local Specialist. Your sightseeing tour across this historic capital will reveal how the resilient Poles rebuilt their city after the destruction of World War II. You'll see St. John's Cathedral and the Royal Palace in the Old Town, then visit the site of the Warsaw Ghetto which confined over 400,000 near-starving Jews during World War II. With the rest of the afternoon free to explore your way, why not embark on an exploration of the Praga-Północ district, one of Europe's coolest neighbourhoods, including a visit to Poland's first vodka museum.
Today we travel south towards the former Royal Capital of Krakow. We pay our respects to the survivors and victims of the Holocaust by visiting the memorial site of the former concentration camp at Auschwitz.
Today is all about uncovering the legendary history of this beautiful city. Be sure to keep a keen eye out for the thirsty dragon whose legendary demise, thanks to the clever thinking of a humble shoemaker, led to the birth of Kraków. You’ll kick things off with a sightseeing tour with your Local Specialist who will share the thrilling tale of the city’s origins as you trace its medieval walls and see Wawel Castle where the dragon once roamed in its dungeons. You’ll have the rest of the day to yourself and perhaps you’d like to spend the afternoon wandering the UNESCO-listed Old Town, or choose an optional experience that would see you exploring the UNESCO-listed Wieliczka Salt Mines, often referred to as the Underground Salt Cathedral of Poland. This evening, why not enjoy a night out with an optional farmhouse dinner and Polka party where you'll swing around the dance floor after a meal of Polish specialties.
Head south through Poland, then slice through the pastoral heart of Slovakia bound for Hungary. Your final destination is Budapest, which sits straddled on either side of the beautiful Danube – two halves shaped by a captivating mix of Magyar, German, Slav, Jewish, Roma and Turkish settlers that have made Budapest into the cultural capital it is today. Begin your exploration of this 'Pearl of the Danube' on the water with an optional scenic cruise on a private boat along the Danube. Against an enchanting illuminated backdrop, you'll enjoy a dinner of Hungarian specialties while you sail underneath the famous Chain Bridge and past Budapest's majestic Parliament buildings.
Like all great capitals, Budapest's story begins with a legend, and your Local Specialist will share all the exciting tales during your sightseeing. Then there's time to explore the 1000-year history of Budapest on your own or perhaps join an Optional Experience, including a goulash cooking demonstration, to the medieval town of Szentendre, set on the banks of the Danube.
All that glitters certainly is gold in Budapest. You'll see this first-hand during an optional visit to the Hungarian Parliament, whose original recipe features rum, raisins and chocolate - a truly decadent way to start the day. The highlights of Bohemia just keep on coming as we continue our trip across the hilly landscapes of Transdanubia to Győr, a charming city which sits at the crossroads of Central Europe, midway between Budapest and Vienna. Wander the historic streets then continue across the Austrian border arriving in Vienna later today, a city where music literally surrounds you. But this city can carry more than a tune as you'll come to discover when you join an optional dinner in a favourite Viennese restaurant including musical entertainment.
It’s entirely up to you how to explore this musical capital of the world. You could spend hours wandering the streets when you visit Vienna, or perhaps take a guided trip to Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs, one of the most influential royal families of Europe. Meet your Local Specialist, who will reveal all the secrets and stories of this imperial city. See the Parliament, the Vienna Opera House, the Hofburg and the City Hall, before heading out on your own. You'll need no excuse to embrace the locals' love of the good life as you indulge in the city's Kafee culture with a heavenly slice of Sachertorte to tame your chocoholic tendencies. This evening, the melodies of a musical Vienna are the order of the day if you join an optional dinner followed by a concert of Strauss and Mozart masterpieces.
Today we’ll say goodbye to Vienna's enchanting symphony and travel north to the Czech Republic on your Bohemia value tour. First stop is the medieval town of Brno and we'll pass through gorgeous green and gold landscapes, before arriving in Prague later today. The 'Golden City of a Hundred Spires' shines even brighter at night, so it’s only fitting to join an evening introduction to this fairy-tale city. Hit the town and crack open a cold one to quench your thirst, discovering the dry-hopped goodness for which Prague is renowned.
While the rest of Europe's capitals smouldered, the enduring beauty of Prague saved it from a similar fate during World War II. You'll see why when you head out on a sightseeing tour with your Local Specialist, with stops to see highlights including Prague Castle, the Cathedral of St. Vitus and the Old Town Square. You’ll delve into its thousand-year history before exploring the city your way. Walk along the 14th-century Charles Bridge lined with Baroque statues of saints or take a relaxing lunch cruise on the Vltava – an Optional Experience that will reveal the legends, myths, culture and hidden secrets of this enchanting city.
Take a step back in time during your stop in Rothenburg ob der Tauber along Bavaria’s Romantic Road this morning. Your orientation tour will reveal an exquisite medieval centre encircled by a fortified town wall that was built in the 13th century. Continue to Frankfurt, where there’s time for some last-minute souvenir shopping and a farewell dinner to reminisce over an epic journey across the Bohemian countryside and capital cities.
Great empires created the enchanting land which you’ve explored over the past 15 days. You’ve encountered legends, tales of bravery and unforgettable masterpieces that span the centuries. All that’s left is to bid your new friends a fond farewell as you prepare to close the curtain on an exhilarating encounter with Bohemia. Find out more about your available transfers at costsavertour.com/transfers.
Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a twin room. To request a personalized travel quote, click "Request Quote" and a Travel Specialist will send your custom quote including airfare if requested.
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.
Available on Day 2
Berlin in the evening is a city transformed! Explore the German capital as twilight descends, driving through the city streets to scope out impressive landmarks such as the iconic Brandenburg Gate before we enjoy an unforgettable night of hearty food, wine, beer and lively music.
Adult Price: € 60
Available on Day 3
Uncover the secrets of Berlin’s history on a guided tour of the city, led by our knowledgeable Local Specialist. Explore the significant Holocaust Memorial, take in the spectacular sight of the colorful Berlin Wall and see the site of Checkpoint Charlie. Learning more about WWII and the Cold War of Berlin’s past, this tour takes you to some of the world’s most significant sights in modern history.
Adult Price: € 32
Admire the architecture of this vibrant city as we take a scenic drive to the rural outskirts, formerly used as the Royal Hunting grounds in centuries past. Now an exclusive residential district, you’ll dine in a charming chalet-style restaurant and enjoy an atmospheric dinner of German specialties.
Adult Price: € 60
Available on Day 5
Journey to the bohemian district of Praga - one of the ‘coolest neighborhoods in Europe’ - where our Local Specialist will take us on a tour of Poland’s first Vodka Museum. Experience a tantalizing journey through the history of the famous tipple, sampling local and national delicacies before a scenic drive to enjoy the illuminations of Warsaw in the evening.
Adult Price: € 59
Join us for a tour of this splendid baroque palace, built in the late 17th century as a summer home for King Jan Sobieski III. With spectacular décor and perfectly manicured gardens to explore, this tour is a must for architecture and history buffs! On our visit, led by our Local Specialist, we’ll see the collection of royal furniture, portraits and china that forms part of the National Museum.
Adult Price: € 36
Available on Day 7
Take your tour of Krakow to the next level, immersing yourself in the authentic culture of Poland with an evening of lively music, dance and dinner. Enjoy the sounds of traditional Polka music and dances, while savoring a delicious meal of Polish specialties and beverages at our specially-selected venue.
Adult Price: € 63
With our Local Specialist, we'll visit this amazing UNESCO World Heritage-listed site just outside Krakow and marvel at the unique sculptures and setting of this 800-year-old salt mine. See chambers, chapels and even salt chandeliers as we follow our guide 440 feet underground. This optional involves reservations and entrance prepayments. Should you decide to cancel the optional, a 50% cancellation fee will be incurred.
Adult Price: € 56
Available on Day 8
Enjoy a scenic cruise on our private boat on the romantic Danube, with spectacular views of Budapest’s breathtaking cityscape. You’ll savor a tasty dinner with a selection of Hungarian specialties and drinks included and watch in awe as Budapest's spectacular illuminations light up the night’s sky. It’s not hard to see how this magical city earned the nickname 'The Paris of the East.'
Adult Price: € 93
Available on Day 9
Follow our Local Specialist out of bustling Budapest to the picturesque medieval town of Szentendre, set on the banks of the Danube and awash with ancient walls, cobbled streets and beautiful vistas. Here, we’ll enjoy a Goulash cooking demonstration before sampling this essential Hungarian dish during lunch, which also includes cake and drinks. Afterward, explore shops that sell beautiful Hungarian embroidery, ceramics and paprika.
Adult Price: € 52
Available on Day 10
Join our Local Specialist for a tour of this magnificent Gothic Revival building, the most ornate state parliament in Europe. You’ll also enjoy time to relax with a visit to the world-famous Gundel restaurant for pancakes and drinks. This optional involves reservations and entrance prepayments. Should you decide to cancel the optional, a 50% cancellation fee will be incurred. When the Parliament is closed, we will visit the exquisite 'Renaissance' Opera House and the optional will be offered at €43.
Adult Price: € 64
Available on Day 10
As the cultural capital of Austria, Vienna is the home of unique travel experiences. Take your tour to the next level with dinner in an atmospheric Viennese restaurant, enjoying Austrian dishes and drinks as you take in the melodic charms of traditional musical entertainment. A unique experience in one of Europe’s most enchanting cities, this elegant evening is a must.
Adult Price: € 63
Available on Day 11
Embrace the enchanting culture of Vienna as you enjoy a superb dinner with drinks, followed by a concert of classical music including the works of Johan Strauss and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. With ‘A Class’ tickets and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine or juice to enjoy during the intermission, you’ll love this unique travel experience in the Austrian capital. Please note: on occasion, a small gift will be offered in place of a glass of sparkling wine.
Adult Price: € 103
Immerse yourself in the striking palatial rooms and gardens of the Imperial Summer Palace of Schönbrunn, with a Local Specialist to bring the historic residence to life. Offering an amazing journey through the centuries-old Hapsburg rule, the palace is perfectly preserved and richly decorated with remarkable treasures to behold.
Adult Price: € 47
Available on Day 12
Join our Local Specialist for an evening tour of this bohemian city, enjoying private transport with a little strolling to discover Prague’s must-visit destinations. Explore the dreamlike streets of the Old Town, scope out the magical views from Charles Bridge and enjoy a drink in a quaint restaurant, where you’ll delight in the sounds of local musical entertainment.
Adult Price: € 39
Available on Day 13
Traveling through the Czech Republic, you’ll discover the ultimate beverage of choice for the locals is a nice cold beer - and no tour of Prague is complete until you’ve sampled some of the delectable pilsners and lagers on offer! Join our local guide and expert to discover a few of the nation’s favorite brews and learn why they’re the biggest beer consumers in the world.
Adult Price: € 37
Learn how to paint on canvas and create your very own Prague masterpiece. While learning the techniques, you will enjoy a drink and, at the end, take home your creation as the perfect souvenir of this fabulous city.
Adult Price: € 41
Step inside a hidden world of scintillating secrets, legends and myths of Prague with a relaxing cruise on the River Vltava. Offering insight to enchanting local stories and unbeatable views of the “City of a Hundred Spires”, this cruise is perfect for photography buffs and culture vultures alike. You’ll also enjoy sampling local specialties with an included lunch on board your scenic cruise.
Adult Price: € 51