Explore Eastern Europe

A city filled with energy and culture – we'll begin our Eastern European story in grand Budapest. You could spend a couple of days getting acquainted with this bustling city, before meeting our small group of fellow explorers for a welcome dinner at our hotel. So, how will your Budapest chapter take shape? Perhaps you'll discover one of the city's historic thermal baths and unwind in their famous, mineral-rich waters. (Don't miss the Gellért Bath's beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, or the sunny yellow Neo-Baroque facade of Széchenyi Thermal Bath).

Then, a relaxing cruise along the mighty Danube River is the perfect way to soak in the city's iconic sights – Parliament Building, Buda Castle, Széchenyi Chain Bridge, we're looking at you! Or, for a slice of adventure, you could pack a picnic and hike up leafy Gellért Hill for panoramic views of the city below. As another option, why not weave your way to the buzzing Jewish Quarter for a dose of pálinka (fruit brandy) at a quirky, character-filled ‘ruin bar'? There are twisting mazes of neon-lit, graffiti-filled rooms just waiting to be explored here... Decisions, decisions! Stay: Danubius Hotel Astoria (or similar) (D)

Get ready to step back in time at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hollókő – a village that's been lovingly preserved to showcase traditional rural life in Hungary from centuries past. We'll get to know the friendly locals as we enjoy a guided tour: marvel at the residents' vibrant, hand-embroidered folk costumes, uncover the centuries-old secrets of blacksmithing, and even learn a traditional dance step or two! To wrap up this morning steeped in culture, we'll tuck into a hearty homemade lunch, where classic Palóc soup (crafted with pork, vegetables and fragrant spices) is on the menu. Be sure to save room for dessert – there's a golden apple strudel with your name on it.

Then, it's on to enchanting Eger – where you'll have the rest of the afternoon free to meander through its cobblestone streets. So, how will your adventures shape up? You might soak up the cosy hum of conversation and enjoy a spot of people-watching from one of the many cafés spilling out onto historic Dobó István Square – Presszókávé (espresso) in hand, of course. Gaze up at the gilded, frescoed ceiling of the Minorite Church, a real Baroque beauty. Or, feel the cool, timeworn stone under your fingertips as you trace the walls of the 13th-century Eger Castle. As night envelops the city's terracotta rooftops, rest and recharge – our Eastern Europe adventure continues tomorrow. Stay: Hotel Korona (or similar) (B/L)

Lush vineyards line the landscape like rows of green thread, neatly stitched into the sun-drenched earth – we're stepping into our luxury minicoach and travelling on to World Heritage-listed Tokaj, a wine region in north-eastern Hungary. Here, it's time to channel your inner sommelier, as we'll be sampling not one, but five distinctive white wines at a family-run winery – from crisp and dry to sumptuously sweet varieties. The jewel in the crown? Tokaji Aszú, the region's renowned golden dessert wine.

You'll soon see why it's a firm favourite, and we won't blame you for stocking up on a bottle (or two) to take home... Fairytale castles, soaring mountain peaks, time-honoured folk traditions – it's all waiting for us as we cross the border into Slovakia. After a spot of lunch and an orientation tour of Košice, we're venture into mountain territory – the magnificent High Tatras region beckons! Keep your eyes peeled for a glimpse of the majestic Spiš Castle ruins, perched high on a hilltop like a stone crown, as we follow the scenic route to our thoughtfully selected mountain retreat. We're free to relax and unwind tonight, and will surely be dreaming of sweeping views... Stay: Hotel Hviezdoslav (or similar) (B)

Thrill seekers, rejoice! This morning, we're stepping into a cable car and soaring high into the sky to the top of Lomnický štít – the second tallest peak in the High Tatras. At the summit, take a moment to pause... Inhale the crisp, mountain air as the bracing wind rushes past, and drink in the cinematic panorama of jagged peaks that graze the sky like giant shards of glass. What a view! Tear yourself away and snap those final postcard-perfect pictures on the descent.

Then, once on terra firma, we'll weave along the scenic back roads to a local farm where a delicious cheese tasting and light, rustic lunch awaits. Savour the rich, smoky flavours of Oscypek – the region's beloved signature cheese, that's expertly crafted on-site and infused with garlic, paprika and herbs. We'll even be treated to a lively performance by a local band. So, who remembers the steps we learnt earlier in the week? Now's your chance to shine! Then, it's back to the hotel for an evening spent at our leisure. Stay: Hotel Hviezdoslav (or similar) (B/L)

Time to dig a little deeper – 135 metres to be exact. The otherworldly Wieliczka Salt Mine is ours to discover this morning. We'll descend around 800 steps and unearth a subterranean labyrinth, where vast, chandelier-lit chambers, ornate chapels and larger-than-life sculptures await at every turn. Extraordinarily, all these elements are carved from salt – yes, really! Dating back to the 13th century, this intricate maze of galleries, passageways and even a lake will transport you to another world.

After emerging back into the daylight, we'll journey on to Poland and the country's former capital, Kraków. The afternoon's all yours to dive into this charming city... Imagine yourself at a royal audience in Wawel Castle's State Rooms, where chessboard-patterned floors stretch before you. Uncover your new favourite independent boutique among the cobblestones of the hip and artsy Jewish Quarter. Or, perhaps you'll seek out one of the dimly lit cellar bars for a tipple of Polish vodka.

Then, settle down for the night in our characterful hotel. Nestled in the heart of the Old Town, you'll be feeling like a local here in no time. Stay: Hotel Polski pod Białym Orłem (or similar) (B)

From the buzz of the historic Cloth Hall to the gilded grandeur of St Mary's Basilica, this morning, our expert local tour guide will help bring the spirit of Kraków's Old Town to life. And, after working up an appetite, you'll have free time for lunch. So, why not opt for Placki ziemniaczane for a taste of quintessential, local flavours? Expect crisp potato pancakes, pan-fried to perfection and flavoured with fragrant garlic or onion. Sign us up!

Later this evening, there are more culinary delights on the agenda with a hands-on pierogi-making class. The classic Polish dumplings are a firm favourite with locals, and you'll soon see why. Roll up your sleeves, prepare the pastry and fill each circle with typical savoury fillings. The best part? You'll get to sample your unique, freshly baked creations for tonight's dinner. Be sure to jot down the recipe for when you're hosting back home. Smacznego! Stay: Hotel Polski pod Białym Orłem (or similar) (B/D)

Today, we'll embark on a solemn visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest of the former Nazi concentration camps, where some of history's darkest chapters unfolded. On a guided tour, you'll gain a profound understanding of its harrowing role in World War II, while quietly reflecting on the lives lost and the stories that echo through its somber grounds.

After a moving visit, we'll continue on to the third and final country on our Eastern European journey, the Czech Republic, where the majestic city of Olomouc greets us with its grandeur. What treasures will you uncover here? Come face to face with mythological figures that adorn the Old Town's six, impressive Baroque fountains. Marvel at the Town Hall's Astronomical Clock, with its intricate celestial dials and animated figurines. Hear the gentle chime of the organ as you enter the hushed nave of the neo-Gothic Saint Wenceslas Cathedral. There's magic around every corner... Tonight, the city's all yours to explore. Track down a local haunt for dinner, and your knowledgeable Tour Leader is sure to have plenty of recommendations ready to share. Goulash, anyone? Stay: Hotel Arigone (or similar) (B)

Sit back and relax in the minicoach, this morning we're following our journey westwards to Brno, the Czech Republic's second largest city. With a thriving cultural scene and countless trendy eateries, it's easy to see why students and locals alike have fallen in love with this effortlessly cool urban hub. Get swept up in the city's spirit on a walking tour led by our in-the-know Tour Leader; where market stalls overflow with sun-kissed vegetables like bountiful treasure chests, and legends of a notorious dragon hang in the air like an ancient secret. Charming Třeboň is up next, with its pastel-hued buildings and terracotta rooftops that would feel right at home in a Wes Anderson film.

Drink it all in on an orientation tour as we admire the 17th-century Château, trace the town's medieval walls and learn about the local fishponds. We'll wrap up another perfect day in the enchanting Český Krumlov– where you'll have the evening to wander its maze of picturesque streets at your own pace or simply unwind at the hotel. Tomorrow, we'll delve deeper into this picture-perfect medieval town... Stay: Hotel Latrán (or similar) (B)

Wake up to the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and fuel up for the day – we're setting off on a walking tour with our friendly local guide. Just as the Vltava River threads through town like a shimmering ribbon, we'll weave our own path up through cobblestone streets to Český Krumlov's mighty castle. Say hello to the locals as you pass by cosy cafes, eclectic craft shops and family-run pubs on the way. Dating back to the 13th century, the castle boasts a stunning blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture, as well as panoramic views over the Old Town and river below.

What iconic landmarks can you spot from all the way up here? Following our in-depth visit, you'll have the afternoon to take on the town as you wish. Why not meander through the castle's manicured gardens and inhale the kaleidoscope of flowers in full bloom? Or, simply settle in at one of the sun-soaked riverside cafes, listening to the gentle melody of the flowing water, and watch the world go by... A final feast awaits at a local restaurant, where we'll gather for dinner – it's the perfect chance to reminisce on the soul-stirring experiences we've shared together. Stay: Hotel Latrán (or similar) (B/D)

Settle into the minicoach for one final journey together as we venture to Obrataň, home to the humble Sudkuv Dul Fortress and the unique, UTOPIA Cellar. With a warm welcome from the owners, we'll descend into the cellar for a glimpse into the craft behind their refreshing local ciders and delicate vinegars – all made with 100% natural, fresh ingredients and a long-established fermenting processes. Afterwards, we'll even have the opportunity to sample some of their exceptional produce ourselves.

You may want to make space in your bags for a few bottles! As we part ways in timeless Prague, we may be saying goodbye to Eastern Europe but the memories of its charm and rich history will undoubtedly last a lifetime. Before you leave, immerse yourself in Prague's magical streets, where you'll discover why it's nicknamed the ‘City of a Hundred Spires' and how the iconic Charles Bridge has captured the hearts and imaginations of so many. (B)