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Highlights of Eastern Europe

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Highlights of Eastern Europe

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Fully Guided Adventure Small Group
Our Price From 4,586 Per Person
Exclusive Savings 99 Per Person
 Trip Length
14 Days
 Trip Starts
Krakow
 Trip Finishes
Prague
14 Day Highlights of Eastern Europe Itinerary (Explore)
Countries Explored: Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Czech Republic
Our Price From 4,586 Per Person
Exclusive Savings 99 Per Person
 Trip Length
14 Days
 Trip Starts
Krakow
 Trip Finishes
Prague
14 Day Highlights of Eastern Europe Itinerary (Explore)
Countries Explored: Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Czech Republic
Trip Style
Discovery
Departures
Accommodation
Comfortable
Max. Group Size
16
Pace
Full On
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
CZ
Trip Style
Discovery
Departures
Accommodation
Comfortable
Max. Group Size
16
Pace
Full On
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
CZ

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Explore's 14 Day Highlights of Eastern Europe. On this holiday discover the historic European capital cities of Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna and Prague and travel between them by a combination of rail and road. In Mikulov see the Jewish Cemetery and enjoy a wine tasting.
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Explore's 14 Day Highlights of Eastern Europe. On this holiday discover the historic European capital cities of Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna and Prague and travel between them by a combination of rail and road. In Mikulov see the Jewish Cemetery and enjoy a wine tasting.

Itinerary

Arrive in Krakow, where we spend the next two nights. It was Poland's former capital until 1596 and due to its very distinctive character; it is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Its historic architecture survived World War II unscathed, unlike most other Polish cities, and its rich culture has been preserved to the present day. It was the residence of Polish kings and has nearly one hundred churches, as well as the country's oldest university. Among its most important architectural treasures are Saint Mary's Church, which contains the world-famous altarpiece carved by Veit Stoss, the medieval buildings of the Jagiellonian University and Wawel Castle and Cathedral.

For those arriving on time our Leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 6pm for the welcome meeting and for those that wish, there is the chance to go out for dinner. There are no other activities planned today, so you are free to arrive in Krakow at any time. If you would like an airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into John Paul II Krakow-Balice International Airport (KRK), which is around 30 minutes' drive. Should you miss the welcome meeting, your Leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up.

There is a lot to see and do in Krakow; if you can spare the time, we suggest arriving a day early to make the most of this fascinating city especially if you are going on the optional excursion to Auschwitz or Wieliczka Salt Mine tomorrow. Alternatively, you could consider combining this holiday with the Budapest to Prague Adventure (explore.co.uk/CZ) to make a two-week holiday.

In the city centre you will find numerous good Polish restaurants and the 'pierogi', Polish dumplings, are especially tasty. There are also many bars selling a range of local beers and of course a wide range of vodkas. Such as Chmiel, which is a basement bar beneath the forecourt of Wawel Castle, C.K. Browar, which is a popular micro-brewery or Starka Restaurant and Vodkas where you can try out an array of homemade flavoured vodkas. Stay: Hotel Wyspianski (Comfortable)

This morning our local Leader will take us on a short orientation walk around the city's stunning Old Quarter to help us get our bearings.

The rest of today is left free for you to explore Krakow and further afield if you wish. The Jewish Kazimierz district, the setting for the film Schindler's List, has many points of interest, including the Old Synagogue and the Museum of Jewish Life. You may like to make an excursion to Oswiecim, the site of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp, which is a haunting reminder of the terrible atrocities that took place here during World War II.

Alternatively it's possible to visit the Royal Castle, perched high on Wawel Hill, which overlooks both the Old Quarter and the Vistula River. Constructed in Renaissance style, the castle houses exquisite treasures collected through the ages by Polish monarchs. Next to the castle is Wawel Cathedral, which is the final resting place of the Polish Kings.

Another option is to visit the fascinating Wieliczka Salt Mines, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At up to 300 metres underground you'll see a 400 year old chapel, a subterranean salt lake and chambers large enough to hold the Eiffel Tower! The Chapel of Saint Kinga is the mine's most spectacular feature and you'll no doubt be amazed by what can be sculpted from salt. Please note that there are 350 steps down into the mine at the beginning of the tour and then a further 450 on the route through the various corridors and 20 chambers visited. The temperature underground can be much cooler than on the surface, so be sure to bring a jumper.

There is only time to visit Auschwitz or the Wieliczka salt mine today. We suggest you extend your stay in Krakow if you would like to visit both. Please see the Optional Activities section of our trip notes about pre-booking the optional excursion to Auschwitz prior to travel. This excursion books up quickly so it is important to book this at least one week in advance of your arrival. Stay: Hotel Wyspianski (Comfortable) (B)

This morning we depart for an inflatable rafting trip on the Dunajec River to a point close to the Polish border near Lesnica. It's a chance to get active and probably get wet as well as enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Bring a change of clothes and shoes that you don't mind getting wet and a towel with you today. This river has been a famous attraction since the middle of the 19th century, when tourists came here to cruise on log built rafts. We meander along the bottom of the spectacular canyon that bears the river's name, passing a landscape of towering limestone cliffs, blanketed in lush forests of fir, beech, larch and spruce.

The gorge in Pieniny National Park is particularly noteworthy for its diverse collection of wildlife including lynx, wolf and stag that can often be spotted in its slopes. Birdlife includes some 14 species of bats as well as eagle, pygmy owls, three toed woodpeckers and rare black storks that can be spotted along the river's edge.

Later in the day, will visit the impressive Spis Castle. Sat on a hilltop above the town of Spisske it was once home to the Hungarian kings and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ruins show both Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

Continue by bus to Tatranska Lomnica in the High Tatra Mountains, one of the most scenic regions of Slovakia. Snow-capped for most of the year, the compact High Tatra range is sliced by beautiful valleys and lakes. An ideal region for winter sports, in summer the network of well-marked trails is a hiker's delight. Stay: Hotel Titris (Comfortable) (B)

Today we take a public bus to Biela Voda and from here we'll start our full day trek in the beautiful Tatra Mountains. We begin with an uphill walk to the picturesque Green Lake. We take in the views and have the option to have a picnic lunch here. For those that wish to walk further there is then the possibility to continue to the Great White Lake before returning to Biela Voda on foot. We return to Tatranska Lomnica by public bus for the evening.

The trek is graded moderate. The first section is 5 kilometres long and goes from 915 metres to an altitude of 1550 metres and should take approximately 2.5 hours. If you continue to the Great White Lake it's a further 2 kilometres and goes to an altitude of 1615 metres and should take an extra 35 minutes. We then need to walk the same distance back to the original starting point of the walk, so we will cover between 10-14 kilometres and walk for 5-6 hours in total today. Please make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes or boots and you may also find walking poles useful.

Alternatively if you'd prefer a shorter walk then you can take a local train to Lake Strbske and enjoy a gentle walk around the lakeshore. This large glacial lake offers great views over the surrounding valleys and lakes. An ideal region for winter sports, in summer the network of well-marked trails is a hiker's delight. Stay: Hotel Titris (Comfortable) (B)

This morning we travel by rail to Banska Bystrica (the journey will involve changes of train). On arrival our local Leader will take us on an orientation walk of the city. The pretty town is set on the Hron River and is surrounded by mountains. The main square is a hive of activity in summer and the city castle, which is one of the main attractions, is located on the edge of the square. Back in 1944 it was in Banska Bystrica that the Slovak national uprising began against the invading German forces and their own collaborationist government. Although most were defeated a few members managed to hold on until 1945 when the Soviet, Czechoslovakian and Romanian armies arrived and liberated the country from Nazi rule.

Whilst here you might like to try the traditional and delicious folded potato pancakes followed by 'Tatratea' liqueur, a tea based strong herbal drink that originated in the High Tatra Mountains as a way of keeping warm on cold winter evenings. Stay: Pension Grand (Comfortable) (B)

We start our day visiting the unique Hronsek wooden church, a remarkable engineering accomplishment, given the vast wooden building contains not a single nail or supporting metal in its construction. This beautiful building is protected by UNESCO and has capacity to seat a congregation of over 1000.

Our next stop is Banska Stiavnica, a beautifully preserved medieval town located in the centre of a huge caldera of an ancient collapsed volcano, surrounded by dense forested hills. Whilst here we will visit the 17th century open air mining museum. Equipped with a helmet, mining coat and lamp we head 60 meters deep underground to traverse a two kilometre tunnel providing a fascinating insight into the hard work of mining community from the middle ages until the end of the 20th century.

We continue our journey to Stará Hora, a picturesque small wine-making district of Sebechleby village, on the southern foothills of the Stiavnica Mountains sprinkled with small wine houses called "hajlochy." After a short walk around the village there is the option to visit a local wine cellar and enjoy some wine and dinner prepared by a local family, this is an optional activity - see the budgeting section for more details. Our final destination is Budapest, a two hour drive. Stay: Hotel Papillon (Comfortable) (B)

Situated on a beautiful stretch of the Danube River, Hungary's capital consists of two parts: Buda and Pest. Buda is the older, more graceful part, with cobbled streets and medieval buildings, whilst the latter is the modern business centre.

The morning is left free for your own exploration of Budapest with its many attractions. You may like to relax in one of the famous historic thermal baths, fed by natural hot springs or take a boat cruise on the Danube. Another recommended attraction is Szentendre; an artist's town with a Serb minority located on the bank of the river, which can be reached by train or bus.

Utilising local transport, this afternoon's guided walking tour takes in the major sites of this impressive city. Discover the Basilica of Saint Stephen and the Parliament buildings before crossing the Chain Bridge to the Castle District and Watertown. Here lie Buda's most ancient gems- Castle Hill with the Old Town, Fisherman's Bastion and the Royal Palace. Stay: Hotel Papillon (Comfortable) (B)

Today in Budapest is left free for you to further explore its many attractions. You may like to visit one of the city's famous thermal baths or take a boat cruise on the Danube. Another recommended attraction is Szentendre; an artist's town with a Serb minority located on the bank of the river, which can be reached by train or bus. Stay: Hotel Papillon (Comfortable) (B)

After the journey from Budapest we will spend a nice leisurely afternoon in historical Bratislava, the capital city of Slovakia. It used to be the capital of the former Hungarian Kingdom and was known as 'Pressburg' and went through tough times at war with the Ottoman Empire. We will walk through the Old Town's maze of pretty Medieval streets and squares surrounded by numerous cafes and trendy bistros. We pass by Michael's Gate which is the only remaining old entrance to the city, the pretty Main Square, Neoclassical Primate's Palace and Cathedral of Saint Martin. After the walk you can continue your discovery by visiting one of the oldest castles in Slovakia or by enjoying a birds eye view from city's most famous landmark, the so-called UFO bridge, which affords views over the 'panelaky' typical communist era blocks of flats and various other fairly radical urban projects. Stay: Hotel Matysak (Comfortable) (B)

This morning we take a short train ride (about 1 hour) to Austria's capital, Vienna, where we enjoy a walking tour of the Old City with a local guide. This should offer a good initial overview of the history and the structure of the city. Sights during the walk will include the Karlsplatz, Heroes Square, Hofburg (Imperial Palace Complex), Imperial Treasury, National Library, Spanish Riding School, Vienna's ancient housing estates, Saint Stephens Church and the Opera. We won't have time to enter any of these places on our tour but afterwards you will be free to return to visit any that you wish. You can choose to return to Bratislava by train at your leisure (we will provide a return ticket) or you may prefer to book a boat trip back along the Danube River (taking approximately 2 hours). Stay: Hotel Matysak (Comfortable) (B)

We start our day with a train trip (taking around 1 hour), followed by a short bus journey to the beautiful town of Mikulov. Filled with history embodied in architectural monuments, this small town offers something for everyone. Situated in the very heart of the wine region, it has plenty of walking paths with local and family run wine cellars or wine tasting centres along the way. En route to Mikulov we stop at Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's one of the largest artificial landscapes in Europe and here we will take a walk around the castle park of Chateau Lednice.

In the afternoon we visit the Jewish Cemetery in Mikulov with centuries old tombs and it is the final resting place of many prominent rabbis. Following our visit we'll enjoy a wine tasting of Mikulov's local produce. Stay: Hotel Galant (Comfortable) (B)

A train journey takes us to our final destination of Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic. Our train travel today will involve a change of trains and take approximately 4.5 hours in total. Twelve centuries have adorned it with a labyrinth of old streets and wonderful palaces and bridges. We enjoy a guided city tour, which will take in some of the main highlights including the Old Town Square and City Hall, set amid antique houses and arcades. Other sites include the Astronomical Clock, Powder Tower and Prague Ghetto, which includes the Jewish Cemetery and Synagogues. We also see Charles Bridge, the most handsome bridge over the Vltava River and the area of Hradcany which contains the castle of the Bohemian Kings. Stay: Hotel Lunik (Comfortable) (B)

On our second day in Prague you are free to enjoy the city at your leisure. You may wish to head by local train to the 700 year old Konopiste Castle. The castle was once owned by Archduke Ferdinand, whose assassination in Sarajevo triggered the start of World War I. A boat trip on the Vltava River is another possibility. There are also many classical music concerts to be found. If the timing is right, you may be lucky to see a performance in one of the old atmospheric churches. There the option of visiting the Bunker Museum, where a range of Cold War relics are on display from an age when paranoia and spying was at an all-time high, which is housed in a former communist bunker underneath the city. Stay: Hotel Lunik (Comfortable) (B)

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Prague.

There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Prague at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you would like an airport transfer today, you need to depart from Prague Airport (PRG). (B)

Arrive in Krakow, where we spend the next two nights. It was Poland's former capital until 1596 and due to its very distinctive character; it is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Its historic architecture survived World War II unscathed, unlike most other Polish cities, and its rich culture has been preserved to the present day. It was the residence of Polish kings and has nearly one hundred churches, as well as the country's oldest university. Among its most important architectural treasures are Saint Mary's Church, which contains the world-famous altarpiece carved by Veit Stoss, the medieval buildings of the Jagiellonian University and Wawel Castle and Cathedral.

For those arriving on time our Leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 6pm for the welcome meeting and for those that wish, there is the chance to go out for dinner. There are no other activities planned today, so you are free to arrive in Krakow at any time. If you would like an airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into John Paul II Krakow-Balice International Airport (KRK), which is around 30 minutes' drive. Should you miss the welcome meeting, your Leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up.

There is a lot to see and do in Krakow; if you can spare the time, we suggest arriving a day early to make the most of this fascinating city especially if you are going on the optional excursion to Auschwitz or Wieliczka Salt Mine tomorrow. Alternatively, you could consider combining this holiday with the Budapest to Prague Adventure (explore.co.uk/CZ) to make a two-week holiday.

In the city centre you will find numerous good Polish restaurants and the 'pierogi', Polish dumplings, are especially tasty. There are also many bars selling a range of local beers and of course a wide range of vodkas. Such as Chmiel, which is a basement bar beneath the forecourt of Wawel Castle, C.K. Browar, which is a popular micro-brewery or Starka Restaurant and Vodkas where you can try out an array of homemade flavoured vodkas. Stay: Hotel Wyspianski (Comfortable)

This morning our local Leader will take us on a short orientation walk around the city's stunning Old Quarter to help us get our bearings.

The rest of today is left free for you to explore Krakow and further afield if you wish. The Jewish Kazimierz district, the setting for the film Schindler's List, has many points of interest, including the Old Synagogue and the Museum of Jewish Life. You may like to make an excursion to Oswiecim, the site of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp, which is a haunting reminder of the terrible atrocities that took place here during World War II.

Alternatively it's possible to visit the Royal Castle, perched high on Wawel Hill, which overlooks both the Old Quarter and the Vistula River. Constructed in Renaissance style, the castle houses exquisite treasures collected through the ages by Polish monarchs. Next to the castle is Wawel Cathedral, which is the final resting place of the Polish Kings.

Another option is to visit the fascinating Wieliczka Salt Mines, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At up to 300 metres underground you'll see a 400 year old chapel, a subterranean salt lake and chambers large enough to hold the Eiffel Tower! The Chapel of Saint Kinga is the mine's most spectacular feature and you'll no doubt be amazed by what can be sculpted from salt. Please note that there are 350 steps down into the mine at the beginning of the tour and then a further 450 on the route through the various corridors and 20 chambers visited. The temperature underground can be much cooler than on the surface, so be sure to bring a jumper.

There is only time to visit Auschwitz or the Wieliczka salt mine today. We suggest you extend your stay in Krakow if you would like to visit both. Please see the Optional Activities section of our trip notes about pre-booking the optional excursion to Auschwitz prior to travel. This excursion books up quickly so it is important to book this at least one week in advance of your arrival. Stay: Hotel Wyspianski (Comfortable) (B)

This morning we depart for an inflatable rafting trip on the Dunajec River to a point close to the Polish border near Lesnica. It's a chance to get active and probably get wet as well as enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Bring a change of clothes and shoes that you don't mind getting wet and a towel with you today. This river has been a famous attraction since the middle of the 19th century, when tourists came here to cruise on log built rafts. We meander along the bottom of the spectacular canyon that bears the river's name, passing a landscape of towering limestone cliffs, blanketed in lush forests of fir, beech, larch and spruce.

The gorge in Pieniny National Park is particularly noteworthy for its diverse collection of wildlife including lynx, wolf and stag that can often be spotted in its slopes. Birdlife includes some 14 species of bats as well as eagle, pygmy owls, three toed woodpeckers and rare black storks that can be spotted along the river's edge.

Later in the day, will visit the impressive Spis Castle. Sat on a hilltop above the town of Spisske it was once home to the Hungarian kings and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ruins show both Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

Continue by bus to Tatranska Lomnica in the High Tatra Mountains, one of the most scenic regions of Slovakia. Snow-capped for most of the year, the compact High Tatra range is sliced by beautiful valleys and lakes. An ideal region for winter sports, in summer the network of well-marked trails is a hiker's delight. Stay: Hotel Titris (Comfortable) (B)

Today we take a public bus to Biela Voda and from here we'll start our full day trek in the beautiful Tatra Mountains. We begin with an uphill walk to the picturesque Green Lake. We take in the views and have the option to have a picnic lunch here. For those that wish to walk further there is then the possibility to continue to the Great White Lake before returning to Biela Voda on foot. We return to Tatranska Lomnica by public bus for the evening.

The trek is graded moderate. The first section is 5 kilometres long and goes from 915 metres to an altitude of 1550 metres and should take approximately 2.5 hours. If you continue to the Great White Lake it's a further 2 kilometres and goes to an altitude of 1615 metres and should take an extra 35 minutes. We then need to walk the same distance back to the original starting point of the walk, so we will cover between 10-14 kilometres and walk for 5-6 hours in total today. Please make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes or boots and you may also find walking poles useful.

Alternatively if you'd prefer a shorter walk then you can take a local train to Lake Strbske and enjoy a gentle walk around the lakeshore. This large glacial lake offers great views over the surrounding valleys and lakes. An ideal region for winter sports, in summer the network of well-marked trails is a hiker's delight. Stay: Hotel Titris (Comfortable) (B)

This morning we travel by rail to Banska Bystrica (the journey will involve changes of train). On arrival our local Leader will take us on an orientation walk of the city. The pretty town is set on the Hron River and is surrounded by mountains. The main square is a hive of activity in summer and the city castle, which is one of the main attractions, is located on the edge of the square. Back in 1944 it was in Banska Bystrica that the Slovak national uprising began against the invading German forces and their own collaborationist government. Although most were defeated a few members managed to hold on until 1945 when the Soviet, Czechoslovakian and Romanian armies arrived and liberated the country from Nazi rule.

Whilst here you might like to try the traditional and delicious folded potato pancakes followed by 'Tatratea' liqueur, a tea based strong herbal drink that originated in the High Tatra Mountains as a way of keeping warm on cold winter evenings. Stay: Pension Grand (Comfortable) (B)

We start our day visiting the unique Hronsek wooden church, a remarkable engineering accomplishment, given the vast wooden building contains not a single nail or supporting metal in its construction. This beautiful building is protected by UNESCO and has capacity to seat a congregation of over 1000.

Our next stop is Banska Stiavnica, a beautifully preserved medieval town located in the centre of a huge caldera of an ancient collapsed volcano, surrounded by dense forested hills. Whilst here we will visit the 17th century open air mining museum. Equipped with a helmet, mining coat and lamp we head 60 meters deep underground to traverse a two kilometre tunnel providing a fascinating insight into the hard work of mining community from the middle ages until the end of the 20th century.

We continue our journey to Stará Hora, a picturesque small wine-making district of Sebechleby village, on the southern foothills of the Stiavnica Mountains sprinkled with small wine houses called "hajlochy." After a short walk around the village there is the option to visit a local wine cellar and enjoy some wine and dinner prepared by a local family, this is an optional activity - see the budgeting section for more details. Our final destination is Budapest, a two hour drive. Stay: Hotel Papillon (Comfortable) (B)

Situated on a beautiful stretch of the Danube River, Hungary's capital consists of two parts: Buda and Pest. Buda is the older, more graceful part, with cobbled streets and medieval buildings, whilst the latter is the modern business centre.

Utilising local transport, this morning's guided walking tour takes in the major sites of this impressive city. Discover the Basilica of Saint Stephen and the Parliament buildings before crossing the Chain Bridge to the Castle District and Watertown. Here lie Buda's most ancient gems- Castle Hill with the Old Town, Fisherman's Bastion and the Royal Palace.

The afternoon is left free for your own exploration of Budapest with its many attractions. You may like to relax in one of the famous historic thermal baths, fed by natural hot springs or take a boat cruise on the Danube. Another recommended attraction is Szentendre; an artist's town with a Serb minority located on the bank of the river, which can be reached by train or bus. Stay: Hotel Papillon (Comfortable) (B)

Today in Budapest is left free for you to further explore its many attractions. You may like to visit one of the city's famous thermal baths or take a boat cruise on the Danube. Another recommended attraction is Szentendre; an artist's town with a Serb minority located on the bank of the river, which can be reached by train or bus. Stay: Hotel Papillon (Comfortable) (B)

After the journey from Budapest we will spend a nice leisurely afternoon in historical Bratislava, the capital city of Slovakia. It used to be the capital of the former Hungarian Kingdom and was known as 'Pressburg' and went through tough times at war with the Ottoman Empire. We will walk through the Old Town's maze of pretty Medieval streets and squares surrounded by numerous cafes and trendy bistros. We pass by Michael's Gate which is the only remaining old entrance to the city, the pretty Main Square, Neoclassical Primate's Palace and Cathedral of Saint Martin. After the walk you can continue your discovery by visiting one of the oldest castles in Slovakia or by enjoying a birds eye view from city's most famous landmark, the so-called UFO bridge, which affords views over the 'panelaky' typical communist era blocks of flats and various other fairly radical urban projects. Stay: Hotel Matysak (Comfortable) (B)

This morning we take a short train ride (about 1 hour) to Austria's capital, Vienna, where we enjoy a walking tour of the Old City with a local guide. This should offer a good initial overview of the history and the structure of the city. Sights during the walk will include the Karlsplatz, Heroes Square, Hofburg (Imperial Palace Complex), Imperial Treasury, National Library, Spanish Riding School, Vienna's ancient housing estates, Saint Stephens Church and the Opera. We won't have time to enter any of these places on our tour but afterwards you will be free to return to visit any that you wish. You can choose to return to Bratislava by train at your leisure (we will provide a return ticket) or you may prefer to book a boat trip back along the Danube River (taking approximately 2 hours). Stay: Hotel Matysak (Comfortable) (B)

We start our day with a train trip (taking around 1 hour), followed by a short bus journey to the beautiful town of Mikulov. Filled with history embodied in architectural monuments, this small town offers something for everyone. Situated in the very heart of the wine region, it has plenty of walking paths with local and family run wine cellars or wine tasting centres along the way. En route to Mikulov we stop at Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's one of the largest artificial landscapes in Europe and here we will take a walk around the castle park of Chateau Lednice.

In the afternoon we visit the Jewish Cemetery in Mikulov with centuries old tombs and it is the final resting place of many prominent rabbis. Following our visit we'll enjoy a wine tasting of Mikulov's local produce. Stay: Hotel Galant (Comfortable) (B)

A train journey takes us to our final destination of Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic. Our train travel today will involve a change of trains and take approximately 4.5 hours in total. Twelve centuries have adorned it with a labyrinth of old streets and wonderful palaces and bridges. We enjoy a guided city tour, which will take in some of the main highlights including the Old Town Square and City Hall, set amid antique houses and arcades. Other sites include the Astronomical Clock, Powder Tower and Prague Ghetto, which includes the Jewish Cemetery and Synagogues. We also see Charles Bridge, the most handsome bridge over the Vltava River and the area of Hradcany which contains the castle of the Bohemian Kings. Stay: Hotel Lunik (Comfortable) (B)

On our second day in Prague you are free to enjoy the city at your leisure. You may wish to head by local train to the 700 year old Konopiste Castle. The castle was once owned by Archduke Ferdinand, whose assassination in Sarajevo triggered the start of World War I. A boat trip on the Vltava River is another possibility. There are also many classical music concerts to be found. If the timing is right, you may be lucky to see a performance in one of the old atmospheric churches. There the option of visiting the Bunker Museum, where a range of Cold War relics are on display from an age when paranoia and spying was at an all-time high, which is housed in a former communist bunker underneath the city. Stay: Hotel Lunik (Comfortable) (B)

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Prague.

There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Prague at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you would like an airport transfer today, you need to depart from Prague Airport (PRG). (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Discover the four distinctive capital cities of Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna and Prague
  • Enjoy a wine tasting in the charming town of Mikulov
  • Walk through the castle park known as 'the garden of Europe' at Chateau Lednice

  • Full on paced trips are for travellers who like their holidays packed with activities and experiences, moving on quickly from place to place with lots of early starts and long, busy days. Some may find them tiring, but others get a buzz from packing their precious holiday-time as chock-a - block full of new experiences as possible.

  • Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included

  • Explore the maze of streets in the medieval cities of Krakow and Budapest
  • Raft along the Dunajec River Gorge and go walking in the Tatra Mountains
  • Discover the medieval town of Banska Stiavnica and learn of its fascinating mining history

  • Full on paced trips are for travellers who like their holidays packed with activities and experiences, moving on quickly from place to place with lots of early starts and long, busy days. Some may find them tiring, but others get a buzz from packing their precious holiday-time as chock-a - block full of new experiences as possible.

  • Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
About Explore!
About Explore!

Launching in 1981, Explore offer trips from over 130 countries - from classic small group tours. Read more

Explore Leaders
Explore Leaders

Explore's leaders are more than just your typical guide. They're your local expert are are passionate about sharing their expertise with you. Read more

Where do we Stay?
Where do we Stay?

The places Explore stay are every bit as important as the sights they visit and the things you do. Read more

About Explore!
About Explore!

Launching in 1981, Explore offer trips from over 130 countries - from classic small group tours. Read more

Explore Leaders
Explore Leaders

Explore's leaders are more than just your typical guide. They're your local expert are are passionate about sharing their expertise with you. Read more

Where do we Stay?
Where do we Stay?

The places Explore stay are every bit as important as the sights they visit and the things you do. Read more

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Take a small group tour with us and you'll be joined by like-minded travel companions as well as a skilled Tour Leader with in-depth knowledge of your destination. Choose from over 350 expertly-designed itineraries in more than 100 countries worldwide. You’ll visit the must-see highlights as well as places not on the typical tourist trail, and leave...more feeling that you've really explored.

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Small Group Adventures

Explore Small Group Adventures (2024-25)

Take a small group tour with us and you'll be joined by like-minded travel companions as well as a skilled Tour Leader with in-depth knowledge of your destination. Choose from over 350 expertly-designed itineraries in more than 100 countries worldwide. You’ll visit the must-see highlights as well as places not on the typical tourist trail, and leave...more feeling that you've really explored.

Availability

Sunday 05 May 2024
Saturday 18 May 2024
Status
From: $4,820
  Sold Out
Sunday 09 Jun 2024
Saturday 22 Jun 2024
Status
From: $4,800
  Sold Out
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 21 Jul 2024
Saturday 03 Aug 2024
Status
From: $4,680 $4,586
Save $94 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 11 Aug 2024
Saturday 24 Aug 2024
Status
From: $4,680 $4,586
Save $94 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 01 Sep 2024
Saturday 14 Sep 2024
Status
From: $4,680 $4,586
Save $94 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 15 Sep 2024
Saturday 28 Sep 2024
Status
From: $4,820 $4,724
Save $96 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 29 Sep 2024
Saturday 12 Oct 2024
Status
From: $4,680 $4,586
Save $94 Enquire
Sunday 13 Oct 2024
Saturday 26 Oct 2024
Status
From: $4,800
  Sold Out
Sunday 05 May 2024
Saturday 18 May 2024
Status
From: $5,730
  Sold Out
Sunday 09 Jun 2024
Saturday 22 Jun 2024
Status
From: $5,920
  Sold Out
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 21 Jul 2024
Saturday 03 Aug 2024
Status
From: $5,590 $5,496
Save $94 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 11 Aug 2024
Saturday 24 Aug 2024
Status
From: $5,590 $5,496
Save $94 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 01 Sep 2024
Saturday 14 Sep 2024
Status
From: $5,590 $5,496
Save $94 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 15 Sep 2024
Saturday 28 Sep 2024
Status
From: $5,730 $5,634
Save $96 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 29 Sep 2024
Saturday 12 Oct 2024
Status
From: $5,590 $5,496
Save $94 Enquire
Sunday 13 Oct 2024
Saturday 26 Oct 2024
Status
From: $5,920
  Sold Out
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 04 May 2025
Saturday 17 May 2025
Status
From: $4,950 $4,851
Save $99 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 08 Jun 2025
Saturday 21 Jun 2025
Status
From: $4,950 $4,851
Save $99 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 20 Jul 2025
Saturday 02 Aug 2025
Status
From: $4,950 $4,851
Save $99 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 10 Aug 2025
Saturday 23 Aug 2025
Status
From: $4,950 $4,851
Save $99 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 31 Aug 2025
Saturday 13 Sep 2025
Status
From: $4,950 $4,851
Save $99 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 14 Sep 2025
Saturday 27 Sep 2025
Status
From: $4,950 $4,851
Save $99 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 28 Sep 2025
Saturday 11 Oct 2025
Status
From: $4,950 $4,851
Save $99 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 12 Oct 2025
Saturday 25 Oct 2025
Status
From: $4,950 $4,851
Save $99 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 04 May 2025
Saturday 17 May 2025
Status
From: $5,900 $5,801
Save $99 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 08 Jun 2025
Saturday 21 Jun 2025
Status
From: $5,900 $5,801
Save $99 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 20 Jul 2025
Saturday 02 Aug 2025
Status
From: $5,900 $5,801
Save $99 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 10 Aug 2025
Saturday 23 Aug 2025
Status
From: $5,900 $5,801
Save $99 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 31 Aug 2025
Saturday 13 Sep 2025
Status
From: $5,900 $5,801
Save $99 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 14 Sep 2025
Saturday 27 Sep 2025
Status
From: $5,900 $5,801
Save $99 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 28 Sep 2025
Saturday 11 Oct 2025
Status
From: $5,900 $5,801
Save $99 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 12 Oct 2025
Saturday 25 Oct 2025
Status
From: $5,900 $5,801
Save $99 Enquire
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Explore. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Explore. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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