Journeys: Explore Central Europe
9 days, Berlin to Budapest
Itinerary
Day 1Berlin
Arrive at any time.
Please make your own way to the joining hotel.
We recommend arriving a day or two early to fully explore this world-renowned city.
Check-in time at hotel is approximately 3:00pm.
Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting
The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.
Accommodation
Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.
Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz (or similar)
Day 2Berlin
Set out on an orientation walk with your CEO to get your bearings. Then discover sections of the Berlin Wall with a local historian, delving deeper into the political and social history of the so-called Iron Curtain from its rise to its fall. During free time this afternoon, opt to join a river tour, people-watch at the historic Brandenburg Gate, or glimpse the city’s flourishing art scene at local galleries and museums.
Berlin is an amazing city with tangible historical importance and is a melting pot of different cultures and flavours.
Orientation With CEO
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Walk the Berlin Wall with a Historian
Walk sections of the Berlin Wall with a local historian to discus the the barrier that divided a country between east and west. Examine the political, social and cultural aspects of the wall from its beginnings to the fall.
Free Time
Opt to visit the East Side Gallery, Checkpoint Charlie, world-class museums, or the Berlin Television Tower for a sweeping view.
Optional Activities - Day 2 HideShow
East Side Gallery Visit Along Berlin Wall
FreeThe very name Berlin conjures images of the famous Berlin Wall. Two sections of the original structure still remain on display; the East Side Gallery, where artists have decorated the remaining section of the wall, and the Berlin Wall Memorial (Gedenkstatte Berliner Mauer). View these remnants of history that once divided east from west.
Judisches Museum Visit
8EUR per personThe Judisches Museum is one of the largest Jewish museums in Europe. See how architect Daniel Libeskind's design evokes three important elements of the past two centuries; the intellectual, economic and cultural contributions of Jewish citizens in Berlin, the reality of the Holocaust, and the recognition of their absence from Berlin (and beyond) following the Second World War. See evocative collections and displays.
Television Tower (Fernsehturm) Visit
13-23EUR per personFor an amazing view of Berlin, visit the famous Berlin Television Tower. Bring your camera and take panoramic photos from the viewing room, then grab a drink and snack at the cafe located 203m (666 ft) above ground.
The Berlin Wall Memorial
FreeLearn about the history of the “Iron Curtain,” the physical, political and emotional barrier that once separated Berlin under the Communist Eastern Bloc and their neighbours to the west. At Berlin Wall Memorial (Gedenkstatte Berliner Mauer), see a complete section of the wall, and look from the east side to see the remains of an electric fence in the so-called “death strip.” Discover the stories of those who died trying to escape to the freedom of West Berlin.
Brandenburg Gate Visit
FreeThe Brandenburg Gate is a spot of great historical significance. Witness the spot where hundreds of thousands of people were finally able to cross from the east side to the west after the fall of the wall. Walk the cobblestones of the surrounding Pariser Platz and mingle with locals who continue to gather here to see stage shows and celebrate public events.
Checkpoint Charlie Museum Visit
17.50EUR per personDown the street from the Berlin Wall is the Haus am Checkpoint Charlie, a museum that documents the history of the wall, and interestingly, many of the different ways people tried to escape. From hot air balloons to one-man submarines, learn about the tenacity and creativity used by those desperate to cross from the east to western side.
Accommodation
Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 3Berlin/Prague
Travel by private vehicle to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic and one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities. Enjoy a guided tour of the historic centre, which dates largely to the 14th century and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. As you walk along the cobbled streets, chart the city’s development through the centuries according to architectural style, from the Middle Ages to present day. This evening, opt to watch the sunset from a lively beer garden on the banks of the Vltava River.
A great way to spend the evening is watching the sunset from the heights of the Letna Beer Garden, where you can sample Czech beer, world-famous for its superb quality and low cost.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Prague Guided City Tour
Enjoy a guided tour of the old town including the Jewish quarter, astronomical clock, Charles Bridge, and Wenceslas Square. Visit all the major sights of the Old Town and simply soak up the atmosphere of a unique community where every street, inn, or theatre tells a story.
Optional Activities - Day 3 HideShow
Letná Beer Garden Visit
Free-3EUR per personWatch the sunset from the heights of the Letná Beer Garden in Letná Park, along the banks of the Vltava River. Sample a pint of Gambrinus 10° Czech beer, world-famous for its superb quality and low cost. Grab a grilled sausage and soak in the scenery.
Accommodation
Miss Sophie's Downtown (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 4Prague
Enjoy a free day to explore the “city of a hundred spires.” Wind your way past baroque domes and Gothic spires, sprawling plazas and spectacular cathedrals. Cross the iconic Charles Bridge, amble through the historic Jewish Quarter, marvel at the medieval astronomical clock, and delve into modern history at Wenceslas Square, where citizens rallied for an end to communism during the Velvet Revolution. Opt to climb more than 200 steps up to the palaces and courtyards of the monumental Prague Castle, the world’s largest ancient castle complex. Check out a local restaurant and try traditional Czech cuisine, such as goulash and dumplings.
Charles Bridge by day is packed with vendors and street musicians. At night, it is less crowded, and it's much easier to appreciate the scenery as well as the ever-so-slightly sinister quality of the statues looming overhead. Cross the bridge and you'll find yourself in Mala Strana, a far less crowded district that offers the perfect atmosphere for some introspective wandering.
If you're in the area and want to experience traditional Czech pubs which are guaranteed to be loud, lively, and packed with locals on any night of the week, this is the place for it. You'll find restaurants serving traditional Czech cuisine like fried pork cutlets, goulash, and dumplings.
Free Time
Enjoy this lively city with a full free day to explore.
Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow
Malá Strana Visit
Cross the Charles Bridge and find yourself in picture-perfect Lesser Town (Malá Strana). Browse small shops, explore cobblestone side streets, visit churches and then find a Czech pub or restaurant to relax and revel in the ambience of this ancient district.
Petřín Hill Hike
Free-30CZK per personPrague certainly has no shortage of breathtaking views and Petřín Hill, near the Prague Castle, offers a less obstructed panoramic vista of the "city of spires."
Prague Castle (Hradčany) Visit
250-350CZK per personIf you like a challenge, climb 200+ steps up to the famous Prague Castle (known as Hradčany), the Castle of the Bohemian Kings. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the largest castle complex in the world, and includes Roman-style buildings from the 10th century. Still got energy? Climb the lookout tower of St. Vitus Cathedral and be rewarded with a glorious view of the city.
Accommodation
Miss Sophie's Downtown (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 5Prague/Český Krumlov
Take a scenic drive through the Bohemian countryside to the fairytale town of Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Opt to visit the Český Krumlov State Castle and Chateau, and get lost in the Gothic castle’s hidden passageways, Baroque theatre, and hedge maze as you explore these epic grounds built between the 14th and 19th centuries.
The inclusion of Ceský Krumlov on UNESCO's List of Natural and Cultural Heritage was undoubtedly a turning point in the modern history of the town. It sent a clear signal to the rest of the cultural world that South Bohemia has something unique to offer.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time
Get out and explore.
Optional Activities - Day 5 HideShow
State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov Tour
360CZK per personTour the Český Krumlov State Castle and Chateau, complete with hidden passageways, a unique Baroque theatre, a hedge maze and beautiful gardens. The castle and surrounding complex is one of the largest in central Europe. Built between the 14th and 19th centuries, the well-preserved layout, structure, interior and architectural details earned it a spot on UNESCO's list of World Cultural Heritage Monuments.
Accommodation
Hotel Gold (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 6Český Krumlov/Vienna
Cross the border into Austria, and go on orientation walk around Vienna. Stop by a local café to pair a cup of rich Viennese coffee with a slice of the famed Sacher torte—a decadent chocolate and nougat confection historically linked to the city’s distinguished coffee houses. Enjoy free time this evening to see Vienna’s world-renowned opera house or simply enjoy a walk around the elegant capital.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation With CEO
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Your Foodie Moment: Sacher Torte Tasting
Sample the world-famous Sacher Torte - a decadent chocolate cake topped with apricot jam and dark chocolate icing - in its birthplace, paired with a cup of rich Viennese coffee. It's a cultural experience as well as a delicious afternoon treat.
Optional Activities - Day 6 HideShow
Belvedere Gallery Visit
19EUR per personLearn some of the history of this beautiful palace and grounds and explore the impressive art collection. Of particular note, the museum's collection of 24 pieces by Gustav Kilmt, including his famous 'Kiss'.
Schönbrunn Palace Visit/Tour
11-15EUR per personEnjoy a guided tour of the stunning summer palace designed by Empress Maria Theresa herself. The palace gardens are free to all visitors.
View Lipizzaner Horses at Spanish Riding School of Vienna
14EUR per personPay a visit to the gorgeous grey Lipizzaner horses of the renowned Spanish Riding School of Vienna. Witness the birthplace of "airs above the ground," or classical dressage, known for its highly controlled movements and jumps.
Saint Stephen's Cathedral Visit
FreeSt. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of Vienna’s main landmarks complete with a 343-step climb up a spiral staircase to look out over the city.
Vienna Boys' Choir Visit
56-200EUR per personSit back and be transported by the sweet voices of the one of world's best known choirs. Founded in 1498, the Vienna Boys’ Choir is made up of boys aged 10-14 from Austria and around the world. Attend a live concert and learn what it means to be moved by music.
*Please note that the price of the ticket will vary depending on the seating you choose.
Vienna State Opera House Visit
8EUR per personVisit the famous Vienna Opera House and soak in its exceptional architecture. Opt for a guided tour to see the opera house's main features and learn about the history of the building.
Accommodation
Elaya Hotel Vienna City West (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 7Vienna
This morning, join a local chef at the famed Naschmarkt, established in the 16th century as a marketplace for wooden milk bottles, sampling some of Vienna's finest delicacies as you explore the stalls and lanes. Enjoy time this afternoon to discover the city on your own. Take in some of Europe's most distinguished art galleries, visit the stunning Lipizzaner horses of the renowned Spanish Riding School, experience mass with the Vienna Boys Choir, or settle into a café.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Naschmarkt Walk
Vienna’s famous Naschmarkt was established in the 16th century as a marketplace for wooden milk bottles. Today, it’s the city’s most popular market and a major destination for visitors. Discover its bounty of stalls and lanes with the guidance of a local chef, who’ll talk about the history of the market and provide professional insight on the local cuisine and food culture of this historic city. Learn all you ever wanted about Austrian cheeses, sausages, spices, and oils and take part in tastings throughout. This perfectly tasty experience is ideal for foodies and novices alike.
Free Time
Enjoy the city as you wish.
Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow
Saint Stephen's Cathedral Visit
FreeSt. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of Vienna’s main landmarks complete with a 343-step climb up a spiral staircase to look out over the city.
Schönbrunn Palace Visit/Tour
11-15EUR per personEnjoy a guided tour of the stunning summer palace designed by Empress Maria Theresa herself. The palace gardens are free to all visitors.
View Lipizzaner Horses at Spanish Riding School of Vienna
14EUR per personPay a visit to the gorgeous grey Lipizzaner horses of the renowned Spanish Riding School of Vienna. Witness the birthplace of "airs above the ground," or classical dressage, known for its highly controlled movements and jumps.
Vienna State Opera House Visit
8EUR per personVisit the famous Vienna Opera House and soak in its exceptional architecture. Opt for a guided tour to see the opera house's main features and learn about the history of the building.
Vienna Boys' Choir Visit
56-200EUR per personSit back and be transported by the sweet voices of the one of world's best known choirs. Founded in 1498, the Vienna Boys’ Choir is made up of boys aged 10-14 from Austria and around the world. Attend a live concert and learn what it means to be moved by music.
*Please note that the price of the ticket will vary depending on the seating you choose.
Accommodation
Elaya Hotel Vienna City West (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 8Vienna/Budapest
Catch a train to the Hungarian capital, Budapest–a vibrant city where rich history, stunning architecture, and rich culture come together along the beautiful Danube River. Head out for a guided historic walking tour through the city's medieval and Jewish districts. Immerse yourself in the pre-Ottoman worlds of Buda and Pest, separated by the Danube River, and learn about events of historical significance along the way. During free time, choose to “take the waters” at a thermal bathhouse or explore the stunning Baroque castle, the historic residence of the Hungarian kings. Choose to join the Chief Experience Officer for an optional farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
You might like to have an optional dinner at a local restaurant on Váci Utca, which is the bustling main street of Budapest.
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Budapest History Walking Tour
Unravel the secrets of Budapest on a 3-hour walking tour of the city's medieval and Jewish districts. Your guide will meet you and then take you to visit Great Market Hall, the city's largest food market, before making your way through winding streets to see remnants of Budapest's 15th-century fortress walls. Immerse yourself in the pre-Ottoman worlds of Buda and Pest, separated by the Danube River, and learn about events of historical significance along the way. Stop for a coffee break, then continue onto the city's Jewish district and visit the Dohany Street Synagogue to learn about the history of Hungarian Jews. Today, this area is known for its "ruin bars" and is a lively center of nightlife.
Free Time
Enjoy some time to explore on your own.
Optional Activities - Day 8 HideShow
Chain Bridge
FreeStraddeling the river Danube, the Chain Bridge suspension bridge is the first built to connect Buda and Pest, and is now one of Budapest's most iconic landmarks.
Hungarian State Opera House
2900HUF per personConstructed in 1873, the Opera House is one of Budapest's most stunning examples of Neo-Renaissance architecture. Take a tour around this stunning building to get a closer look at the ornate marble statues, frescos, and ornate tin work - to name a few highlights.
Parliament Building Visit
5200HUF per personTake a guided tour of one of Hungary's crown jewels - the Hungarian Parliament building. Existing as the third largest Parliament building in the world, its Neo Gothic architecture also makes it a contender for one of the most beautiful. Tour the Hungarian Coronation Jewels in the Dome Hall, the Old Upper House Hall of the bicameral Hungarian Parliament, as well as the Lounge. Guided tours are mandatory for entrance and we recommend booking your tour in advance.
Buda Castle Visit
1500HUF per personSet on Castle Hill overlooking the Danube River and Pest, Buda Castle was once home to the Hungarian kings of Budapest. Admire the gorgeous architecture and visit its two museums; the National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. Permanent collections depict the past 500 yrs of Hungary's art history, including Medieval and Renaissance stonework, Gothic wood sculptures, and Gothic altars.
Thermal Baths Visit
4200-5000HUF per personBring two towels, your bathing suit and an aching body and prepare to be healed in the largest medicinal bath in Europe. Built in 1913, you can test the waters of 18 different pools (15 of which are spring fed) amidst stunning neo-Baroque architecture. Play chess on floating chessboards, relax in the whirlpools and explore the wonderful mosaic domes of these historic thermal steam rooms.
Hungarian National Museum
1600HUF per personDiscover a vast collection of relics at the Hungarian National Museum, the oldest in the country. Wander through galleries that feature incredible objects from prehistoric to modern times, including those from the Stone Age, Ottoman period and contemporary Hungary.
Great Market Hall Visit
FreeTake a stroll though the oldest indoor market in Hungary.
Danube River Cruise
Float down the Danube for a better look at the picturesque sites along the river bend.
Accommodation
Nemzeti Budapest MGallery Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 9Budapest
Depart at any time.
We recommend staying a few extra days to experience all this city has to offer.
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.