Helsinki to Prague

Welcome to Helsinki, Finland's largest city situated on the shore of the Gulf of Finland between Stockholm, Tallinn and Saint Petersburg. The city was chosen as the World Design Capital for 2012 and as such, has seen a surge in travellers arriving in the city. In the early 19th century Carl Ludvig Engel was appointed to design a new city centre and the linchpin to his neoclassical design was the Senate Square.

The city is well known for its outstanding architecture and has fine examples of neoclassical, Art Nouveau and the more modern functionalism in its midst. You will meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director this evening for a welcome drink at the hotel.

This morning we'll explore Helsinki on a city tour. Our sightseeing includes photo stops and a drive past the Senate Square, Uspenski Cathedral, Parliament House, Finlandia Hall, Sibelius Park & Monument and the Underground Temple. We also visit the architectural gem, Temppeliaukio Church, also known as the Rock Church. Both a tourist attraction and an active Lutheran church, it was built directly into solid rock. We'll then visit a local market and have some free time for lunch before returning to the hotel. Tonight we'll enjoy a group welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D)

This morning we visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Suomenlinna. Set on a cluster of islands connected by bridges, it was a maritime fortress and base for the Archipelago Fleet built in the 1700s by Sweden and known at the time as Viapori. It was then under the rule of the Russian Imperial Government in the 1800s. In 1917 Finland gained independence from Russia and in 1918 they renamed the site Suomenlinna, or ‘Castle of Finland', to reflect their new independence.

Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Finland. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore more of Helsinki. Why not immerse yourself in the Finnish culture? Seek warmth in one of the thousand saunas dotted around the capital or walk to the nearest bakery and try lingonberry pie. (B)

After breakfast we will bid farewell Helsinki and take a ferry to our next destination. Later this afternoon we'll arrive in the capital of Tallinn, situated on the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland. Tallinn is a city for all tastes - it's made up of the Old Town, characterised by its distinct medieval architecture, and a thriving business centre of modern skyscrapers, bars and restaurants. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to start exploring this unique city. (B)

Our sightseeing tour this morning begins with a drive around Tallinn's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, offering a fascinating view of the medieval city wall. We arrive in the Upper Town (Castle Hill) and commence our walking tour through the narrow, cobbled streets towards the viewing platform where we'll enjoy a magnificent view of the Old Town below.

We'll then descend to the much livelier lower Old Town. Highlights include the Town Wall with its beautiful towers, the 15th century Gothic Town Hall, St Nicholas Church, now a museum of medieval art, and one of the oldest working pharmacies in the world. We'll also pass by numerous authentic merchant houses which were used by the Hanseatic League (an alliance of traders spanning Northern Europe) during the 13th-17th centuries.

Our tour concludes with a walk through the main shopping street, and the rest of the afternoon is then yours to enjoy at leisure. You may like to take a leisurely stroll through the Old Town square and enjoy the local atmosphere in one of the many cafés or restaurants. (B)

Today we cross the border into Latvia and begin making our way to Riga, the vibrant coastal capital of Latvia. Regardless of the wars endured, political regime changes and economic upheavals, Riga remains a lively and spirited city with its own distinct charm and style. Over the years, visitors have been drawn to Riga thanks to its old town, historical importance and reputation for having one of the most buzzing nightlife scenes in Europe.

Before arriving in Riga, we stop at Sigulda, a picturesque town with some amazing scenery. On the outskirts of the town, we visit Turaida Castle, an ancient medieval castle built in the 13th century, now part of the surrounding museum reserve.

Special Experience: Visit the once top secret Ligatne Soviet Bunker, housed 9 metres underground. Declassified in 2003, the bunker was constructed in the 1980s for the political elite who would govern the state in the event of a nuclear war. Its 2,000 square metres of space was intended to accommodate up to 250 people. The bunker had direct communication lines with the Kremlin and was self-sustaining, able to produce its own electricity and filter oxygen and water.

We then continue to Riga, arriving in the evening. (B)

Our morning sightseeing tour features Riga's most significant landmarks. We begin with a drive along the central boulevards, enjoying the view of the City Canal parks, Bastion Hill, the Powder Tower, the Latvian National Theatre, the Fine Arts Museum, the Art Nouveau buildings of the early 20th century, the Freedom Monument, the University of Latvia, and the Daugava River.

Special Experience: Go behind the scenes of the beautiful Riga Opera House, with a backstage pass including a champagne reception. Lastly, we'll discover Old Riga on a walking tour. Sights include the Dome Cathedral, St Peter's Church, Parliament House and Old Riga Castle. Wandering through the picturesque streets of the Old Town, you'll notice many of the old buildings have been restored and now house restaurants, cafes, bars and souvenir shops – a great spot to return to for dinner.

The afternoon is free to enjoy at leisure. For an opportunity to mingle with the locals, enjoy a unique shopping experience and marvel at the 20th century architecture, head down to the colourful Riga Central Markets. (B)

Today we make our way to the capital of Lithuania, Vilnius, a stunning city centred around the baroque old town and located on the banks of the Neris and Vilnia Rivers.

We depart Riga in the morning and first travel to Rundale Palace. One of the most exceptional monuments of Baroque and Rococo art in northern Europe, the prestigious 18th century Palace boasts no less than 136 rooms. It took four years to build and was originally a summer residence for Duke Ernst Johann of Courland. Between the years of 1765 and 1768 most of the palace was redecorated by a German sculptor and Italian painters which is still evident today.

Special Experience: Receive a rococo-style welcome at Rundale Palace, including a tour through the opulent apartments, before enjoying a short baroque music concert.

Continuing south, we stop to visit the sacred pilgrimage site of the Hill of Crosses. While the precise origin of the practice of leaving crosses on the hill is uncertain, it is believed they were left in memory of those that were killed during the uprising of Eastern Europe and the Russian Empire in the 1800s. During Soviet times, the crosses would be removed by the authorities but within hours they would start to reappear. Today the Hill of Crosses stands to remind us of the suffering, hope, devotion and undefeated faith of the Lithuanian people. (B)

This morning we explore Vilnius on a city tour, beginning at the Cathedral of Vilnius. We continue on through the Old Town on the left bank of the Neris River, a wonderful example of Lithuanian heritage. We stop to see St Anne's Church, a gothic masterpiece built in the 16th century, as well as the 17th century baroque style Church of St Peter and Paul.

We'll then visit Vilnius University – founded in 1579 it is the oldest and most famous establishment in the Baltics. The university has had an interesting history since it opened, including being shut down for over 80 years in the aftermath of the November Uprising and being occupied by Soviet and German forces. Once Lithuania gained its independence in 1991, the university resumed its status as one of the best higher learning institutes in Eastern Europe.

Our tour continues to the Chapel of the Gate of Dawn, a 17th century Baroque Chapel which has become a major pilgrimage site for Catholics and houses a painting of the Virgin Mary called the Madonna of Vilnius. Our tour ends at the Amber Gallery. This afternoon is free for you to enjoy at leisure. (B)

We farewell Lithuania today and cross the border into Poland. Situated in the heart of Europe, Poland has been both a bridge and a frontline between eastern and western Europe. We make our way to Bialystok, the largest city in the northeast of the country. Blending Polish, Jewish and Belarusian cultures, the city has developed a unique culture of its own.

On our way to Bialystok, we stop in the village of Wigry. Here we'll stretch our legs and have the opportunity to take a photo of the former Camldolese Monastery, built on a Peninsula of Lake Wigry by the Camaldolese monks in the 1600's. We'll then stop in the leisurely town of Augustow, where we enjoy some free time to explore this peaceful and serene city. Arriving in Bialystok in the afternoon, we'll meet with a local guide for a short, panoramic tour of the town. (B)

Today, we sit back and watch the rolling hills and verdant forests pass us by as we make our way to Warsaw, the largest city and capital of Poland. You will notice the difference in architectural styles and charms as we move further into central Europe. Along the way we stop at Bialowieza, a small village in the heart of the Bialowieza Forest. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is one of the last remaining parts of the primeval forest that once stretched across the European plain.

Special Experience: Enjoy a horse and carriage ride through Bialowieza Forest, home to the European bison. We return to the village for some leisure time, before continuing to Warsaw. (B)

We'll become acquainted with the history of Poland's capital during a morning tour of Warsaw. We begin in the Old Town, intricately reconstructed after WWII. The Old Town is an excellent example of a compromise between historic values and modern needs and is filled with art galleries, shops, restaurants, cafés, and workshops. We'll learn more about the city at the Historical Museum of Warsaw. The museum is a collection of exhibits depicting the ups and downs of Warsaw throughout its long history.

We then drive along part of the ‘Royal Route' with its beautiful palaces, aristocratic residences, famous statues, and historic churches. Today we'll also see the Warsaw Ghetto Memorial, the Monument of the Warsaw Uprising and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the Jewish Ghetto. We finish the day with a stop at the Chopin Monument which stands in the upper part of Lazienki Park and Belvedere Palace, the residence of Polish Presidents.

The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. You may wish to climb the 150 stone steps of the St Anne's Church Bell Tower. You will be rewarded with the prettiest view of the Old Town and east side of Warsaw, particularly at sunset. Then treat yourself by trying Poland's most famous dish - the Pierogi. A delicious dumpling prepared in many ways, with various fillings such as meat, potato, cheese or spinach.

Optional Excursion: Chopin Recital - Enjoy a recital of Chopin's music performed by celebrated Polish pianists. The concert consists of two parts with intermission when a glass of sparkling wine is served. 1hr – from Euro 65pp. (B)

Today we continue to charming Krakow by train, allowing us to sit back and enjoy the scenery passing us by. Known as the medieval capital of Poland, Krakow is located on the Vistula River and is full of Gothic and Renaissance churches, monasteries and abbeys which give visitors the feeling they have stepped back in time.

On arrival we will take a tour of the highlights. At its heart is the historic Old Town Square which is surrounded by a series of public parks called 'The Planty'. Within the Old Town we'll see the old defence walls and the market square, Rynek Glowny. Here we see the impressive Wawel Royal Cathedral and visit St. Mary's Basilica. The church is made up of two towers of different heights, featuring exquisite interior. Built in the 14th century, its foundations date back to the early 13th century and serve as one of the best examples of Polish Gothic architecture.

We'll also see the Town Hall Tower, the only remaining part of the Town Hall, and the Cloth Hall where merchants would meet to discuss the state of business. (B)

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wieliczka Salt Mine - one of the world's oldest operating mines, dating back to the 13th century. The Wieliczka Salt Mine continually produced table salt right up until 2007. Made up of approximately 300 kilometres of shafts throughout nine levels, the mine reaches a depth of 327 metres into the earth's surface.

Throughout the levels, there are many galleries that show magnificent works of art, all carved out of salt. The most impressive of all is the St Kinga's Chapel, a place of worship since 1896. Its walls are decorated with carvings of scenes from the New Testament and chandeliers with crystals made from salt.

In the afternoon we pay a moving visit to Auschwitz, (located 70 kilometres from Krakow) where the most horrific crimes were committed under Nazi occupation during WWII. Today the preserved buildings house displays of photographs and articles that evoke the personal tragedy of individuals, as well as the grand scale of the horrors that occurred between 1940 and 1945, when an estimated 4 million people lost their lives in these camps. (B)

Spend the day at leisure, enjoying this glorious city at your own pace. Optional Excursion: Jewish Quarter - Visit the Jewish Quarter in Kazmirizh district which was described in Australian author's Thomas Keneally book ‘Schindler's Ark' and later produced into a film. Please note this optional tour includes an English speaking guide & entrance to the Schindler's museum. 3hrs - from Euro 48pp (minimum 8 pax) (B)

Enjoy the scenic drive today as we venture through the Polish countryside and cross the border into the Czech Republic, making our way towards the sleepy town of Kroměříž. The Czech Republic is one of Europe's newest countries and is filled with medieval towns and fairytale castles. The town of Kroměříž is home to the impressive Archbishop's Chateau, a number of Renaissance and baroque churches and lovely gardens.

In the afternoon we visit the Moravian Karst, a natural beauty with more than 1,100 caverns and coves. The area is also one of the most important karst areas of Central Europe. Here we will take a short walk to the Mococha Gorge, a magnificent sink hole at 138.7 metres deep. We then see more of the area as we explore to the impressive Punkva Caves. We continue to Kroměříž, checking into our hotel in the evening. (B)

This morning we will travel to the southern bohemian town of Český Krumlov. Situated on the banks of the Vltava River which splits the town in two, it almost looks like you've stepped into a fairytale.

En route we'll stop at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed and historical town of Třeboň for some free time. As one of the most picturesque towns in the Czech Republic, it is the perfect place to take in the idyllic countryside which has been thoroughly transformed since the 14th century. This transformation has resulted in over 6,000 lakes, numerous islands, magnificent wetlands and countless, rare flora and fauna. Upon arrival into Český Krumlov the evening is at your leisure to relax or explore at your own pace. (B)

Today we travel north to Prague, regarded by many as Europe's most beautiful city. The capitals of many other European nations were flattened or heavily damaged during World War II, but Prague survived intact. First, we explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Český Krumlov and its castle complex. Construction of the castle began back in the late 13th century and the town started to form around it. The town became very popular as it was an important stop along the Vltava River and the trade routes in Bohemia.

Surrounded by rolling hills, the cobblestone streets of Český Krumlov are dotted with over 300 protected medieval buildings and the second largest castle complex in the Czech Republic. In 1253 the Český Krumlov Castle was completed as the residence of the Lords of the Krumlov (members of the Rosenburg family for over 300 years). Throughout the next few hundred years many Emperors, Lords and Dukes added to the castle which gives it its charm today.

Special Experience: Sit back with a tea or coffee at Café Hradek in the Český Krumlov Castle Tower and take in the historic surroundings. We arrive in Prague in the evening. (B)

Today we will see the amazing Baroque and Renaissance buildings that give Prague so much character. First we pass by the National Museum and the National Theatre that stand at the top of Wenceslas Square, before continuing to the area known as 'Mala Strana' or the Lesser Town. We explore Hradčany, the castle district of Prague and visit Prague Castle, the largest castle complex in the world.

Dating back to the 9th century, the castle is where Kings of Bohemia, Holy Emperors and presidents of Czechoslovakia have had their offices. Prague Castle is also where the Crown Jewels of the Czech Republic are housed and where we'll see the world-famous St Vitus Cathedral. While in the castle complex, we also visit the Golden Lane, a small street of 11 historic houses that date back to the 15th century. Each house is painted in a different colour to represent their origin and showcases weapons, armoury, and textiles.

We'll then cross the river into the Jewish Quarter and continue to the famous Old Town Square, home to the Astronomical Clock and imposing gothic Church of Our Lady before Týn. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in this amazing city, before a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D)

Today marks the completion of our incredible adventure through Finland and Eastern Europe. We hope you leave with fantastic memories! (B)