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Eastern Europe with European Gems

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Fully Guided Locally Guided Coach River Cruise
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 Cruise Length
24 Days
 Cruise Starts
Prague
 Cruise Finishes
Amsterdam
24 Day Eastern Europe with European Gems Itinerary (Travelmarvel)
Ship
Passengers
182
Crew
44
Launched
2020
Cruise Code
EUTCRE24

Overview

Indulge in Eastern Europe's spectacular sights before cruising through Europe on your river cruise ship. See the Berlin Wall, explore the Jewish Ghetto in Warsaw and visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau.

Itinerary

Arrive in Prague, where you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Later this evening, enjoy a Welcome Reception. Stay Two Nights: Prague, Grandior Hotel

Today, explore beautiful Prague with an expert guide. Discover the World Heritage-listed Old Town, St Vitus Cathedral, Charles Bridge and Prague's Old Market Square, a historic and bustling square where the culture of this fascinating city comes to life.

The rest of the day is free for you to explore Prague at your own pace. This evening, discover Prague's culinary scene independently or join our optional folklore dinner and show. (B)

Enhance Your Journey - Folklore Dinner and Show Travel to a local restaurant to enjoy a traditional dinner and a lively folklore show.

This morning after breakfast, travel across the border into Germany. As you journey through the state of Saxony, stop in Saxon Switzerland National Park to see the rock formations of Bastei as well as the Bastei Bridge, which offers wonderful panoramic views over the mountains. Continue by coach to Germany's capital, Berlin, and check in to your hotel. Stay Two Nights: Berlin, Courtyard by Marriott (B/D)

Once a city famously divided in two, modern-day Berlin now embodies a fascinating blend of the old and the new. Start your day with a guided tour that will take you past many of the must-see landmarks. See the historic Reichstag building and the Brandenburg Gate - a symbol of peace and a reunified Berlin. You'll also visit a ruined section of the Berlin Wall.

This afternoon, you may choose to travel by coach to Potsdam, where you will join an optional guided tour of the former royal summer palace, Sanssouci. (B)

Enhance Your Journey - Sanssouci Palace Take an excursion to Potsdam, once the residence of Prussian kings. Here, you'll enjoy a tour of the former summer palace of Frederick the Great, Sanssouci.

Today, farewell the incredible city of Berlin and travel through the beautiful, rolling countryside of Germany's east into Poland and on to Warsaw. Stay Two Nights: Warsaw, Regent Hotel (B/D)

Insider Experience - Dine at Rozana in Warsaw Discover the delights of modern Polish cuisine during dinner at Rozana - a highly regarded restaurant in Warsaw. Relish authentic dishes from an impressive set menu as you soak in the cosy yet elegant atmosphere.

The brutal events of World War II has indeed left their mark on the city, yet the Warsaw of today is diverse and progressive, filled with stylish boutiques, chic restaurants, new museums and modern buildings. Also visit Łazienki Park where you will glimpse Łazienki Palace with its serene waters and ornate statues. (B)

Today, you will journey through rolling farmland from Warsaw to Kraków. Along the way, you'll visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, where a tour will provide a haunting insight into the plight of the Jews who were sent to these infamous Nazi concentration camps. Afterwards, check in to your hotel in Kraków and enjoy an evening at leisure. Stay Three Nights: Mercure Krakow Stare Miasto (B)

Enjoy the sights of Kraków on a tour, taking in the Wawel Royal Castle and the famous Old Town. (B/D)

Insider Experience - Polish Dinner and Folklore Show Enjoy a traditional Polish folklore show and authentic regional cuisine at Morskie Oko, a restaurant located in an art nouveau building with interiors resembling a highlander's inn, complete with a fireplace and candlelight. Experience authentic Polish hospitality and a relaxed yet charming atmosphere. Savour authentic regional cuisine including delicious meats served with savoury sauces, handmade dumplings and freshly baked cakes. Relish beverages including honey and plum vodka.

Today, perhaps join an optional tour to the Wieliczka Salt Mine. This ancient, abandoned mine is a marvel, featuring a maze of underground chambers, grottoes and statues chiselled out of rock salt by miners hundreds of years ago. (B)

Enhance Your Journey - Wieliczka Salt Mine Gain insight into over 700 years of mining history in Europe with a visit to the World Heritage-listed Wieliczka Salt Mine.

This morning after breakfast, you will travel to Budapest via the Tatra Mountains in Slovakia and board your ship. Stay 14 Nights: aboard your Travelmarvel river ship (B/D)

Awake to views of one of the Danube's most enchanting cities this morning. Disembark and learn the vibrant history of Budapest as your local guide takes you to a host of impressive sights. Back on board this evening, enjoy a delightful Gala Welcome Dinner while you cruise. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience - Hungarian State Opera performance Visit the Hungarian State Opera for a guided tour. Enjoy a glass of sparkling wine as you're treated to a private opera recital.

On arrival in the city centre, join a walking tour to uncover sights like St Stephen's Cathedral, the Graben and Hofburg Palace. Later, explore the vibrant Naschmarkt at your leisure. This evening, perhaps attend an optional concert for a memorable experience. (B/L/D)

Enhance Your Journey - Mozart and Strauss Concert Enjoy a Mozart and Strauss Concert in one of Vienna's palaces or concert venues, followed by an evening drive around the Ringtrasse.

With the day at leisure, perhaps explore the Hofburg area or wander along Kärntnerstrasse, the city's famous shopping strip. Otherwise, embark on an optional excursion to Schönbrunn Palace, or head to Bratislava, Slovakia's capital. (B/L/D)

Enhance Your Journey - Schönbrunn Palace Visit Tour inside Schönbrunn Palace, the summer palace of the Habsburgs. Discover the apartments of former emperors and take some time to wander the immaculate grounds.

Enhance Your Journey - Visit Bratislava in Slovakia Tick another country off your list with a visit to Slovakia's Bratislava. This charming city blends medieval, baroque, and communist-era architecture. See landmarks such as the UFO Bridge and the iconic Slovak Radio building, testaments to its intriguing past.

Cruise to Dürnstein, a charming town watched over by the hilltop ruins of the castle where King Richard the Lionheart was famously imprisoned in the 12th century. Spend your morning wandering its cobbled streets, historic townhouses, and inviting taverns. You might also choose to join an optional tour and sample the region's renowned wines. Later, sail through the scenic Wachau Valley before docking in Melk to tour its magnificent abbey, a Benedictine monastery in continuous operation since 1089. (B/L/D)

Today, you can choose to join an optional tour to Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic, or visit Salzburg. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing sailing day to Passau. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience - Bavarian Evening on Board Tonight, enjoy a traditional Bavarian experience on board. Sample delicious local beer and snacks, accompanied by traditional folk music, song and dance.

Enhance Your Journey - Český Krumlov Enjoy a fascinating day excursion to the city of Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic, home to more than 300 historical buildings.

Enhance Your Journey - Salzburg Sights Take a trip through the stunning scenery of Austria. Visit Mondsee, where you may recognise the famous Wedding Church from ‘The Sound of Music'. Continue to Salzburg and be guided through the town Mozart called home. Enjoy some free time to explore explore at your leisure before returning to your ship.

Enhance Your Journey - Passau Culinary Tour In the beautiful city of Passau, enjoy a guided walking tour, taking in the historic sites as you roam the cobblestone lanes of the Altstadt. You'll also get to sample a variety of sweet and savoury local specialties.

Continue along the Danube River to Regensburg, located in the Bavarian region of southern Germany. Here, join a guided tour of the city's historic streets, medieval buildings, and cultural sites. (B/L/D)

Arrive in Nuremberg, the site of Hitler's infamous rallies during World War II. Take a city tour this afternoon, which includes sights such as the Zeppelin Field and Palace of Justice. (B/L/D)

Bamberg, one of the few German cities spared destruction during World War II, beckons your attention today. You'll gain great insight during a locally guided tour of the historic city. Gaze upon sights such as the Old Town Hall and the Bamberg Cathedral, followed by some free time to explore. (B/L/D)

Surrounded by lush hills and vineyards, Würzburg is home to the stunning baroque Würzburg Residence. Explore the palace and its Court Garden before perhaps opting for a visit to medieval Rothenburg, a fairytale town nestled along the Romantic Road. (B/L/D)

Enhance Your Journey - M edieval Rothenburg Tour Depart from Würzburg for an excursion to Rothenburg, a beautiful medieval walled town located on the Romantic Road in Franconia.

Discover Miltenberg today, exploring this well-preserved town's half-timbered buildings dating from the 15th to 18th centuries. Return to your ship and enjoy time at leisure. As the sun sets, watch the lights of medieval towns slip past as you cruise through the night. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience - Culinary Tour in Miltenberg Gain a glimpse into local life in Miltenberg as you embark on a culinary walking tour. Sample regional specialties at a local butcher and baker before finishing with a tasting at a local distillery.

In Rüdesheim, the Winzerexpress mini road train will take you to Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Later, back on board, enjoy spectacular scenery as you sail along the Rhine Gorge. (B/L/D)

Learn how the twin spires of Cologne's famous cathedral, the Kölner Dom, took over six centuries to complete as you cruise into this picturesque city. Disembark and take the short drive to Brühl for your Insider Experience. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience - Augustusburg Palace in Germany Explore the former residence of Archbishop-Elector Clemens August, the World Heritage-listed Augustusburg Palace in Brühl. Listen to enthralling stories, and enjoy a walk through the stunning landscaped parks and gardens between the castle and the Falkenlust hunting lodge. The palace and the lodge are some of the finest examples of Rococo architecture from 18th-century Germany.

Amsterdam's network of canals is a sight to behold. Dock in the city's heart and board a glass-top boat to discover its views. Back on land, enjoy free time before a Captain's Farewell Dinner on board. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, disembark your river ship and transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Dine at Rozana in Warsaw: Discover the delights of modern Polish cuisine during dinner at Rozana, a highly regarded restaurant in Warsaw. Relish authentic dishes from an impressive set menu as you soak in the cosy yet elegant atmosphere.
  • Polish Dinner and Folklore Show: Enjoy a traditional Polish folklore show and dinner at Morskie Oko, a restaurant located in an art nouveau building with interiors resembling a highlander’s inn complete with a fireplace and candlelight. Experience authentic Polish hospitality and a relaxed yet charming atmosphere. Savour authentic regional cuisine including delicious meats served with savoury sauces, handmade dumplings and freshly baked cakes. Relish beverages including honey and plum vodka.
  • Bavarian Evening on Board: Enjoy an authentic Bavarian experience on board as you sample local beer and snacks, accompanied by traditional folk music, song and dance.
  • Miltenburg Culinary Tour: Gain a glimpse into local life in Miltenberg as you embark on a culinary walking tour. Sample regional specialties at a local butcher and baker before finishing with a tasting at a local distillery.
  • Augustusburg Palace: Explore the former residence of Archbishop-Elector Clemens August, the World Heritage-listed Augustusburg Palace in Brühl. Listen to enthralling stories and enjoy a walk through the stunning landscaped parks and gardens between the palace and the lodge.
  • Discover the lavish interior of magnificent Wurzburg Residence: Discover the lavish interior of the Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture. Explore its opulent rooms, including the grand Imperial Hall and elegant Royal Apartments, all adorned with exquisite frescoes, intricate stuccoes, and beautiful furnishings.

  • 3 nights in Krakow, 2 nights in Prague, Berlin and Warsaw
  • 14 nights cruising on a Travelmarvel river ship
  • Services of a Travelmarvel Tour Director and local guides
  • Explore 20 towns, villages and cities
  • Transfers, port charges and tipping

  • 53 meals – 23 breakfasts, 13 lunches and 17 dinners
  • Onboard water stations, plus tea and coffee, soft drinks, beer and local wine during lunch and dinner on your cruise

  • Itinerary, inclusions and pricing are subject to change
  • Prices are for land/cruise only. Flights are not included unless specified

Life Onboard Vega

Vega
Vega

Part of Travelmarvel's brand-new fleet of European river ships, Vega makes river cruising Europe with Travelmarvel better than ever before. Read more

Friendly Service
Friendly Service

Travelmarvels cruise directors plus a high staff-to-guest ratio on each ship ensures a smooth cruise holiday. Read more

Contemporary Accommodation
Contemporary Accommodation

Vega has its guests cruising in style with more amenities & features in each stateroom and suite. Read more

Delicious Dining
Delicious Dining

Discover Europe's culinary delights with a greater range of dining venues and options to suit your preference. Read more

Onboard Entertainment
Onboard Entertainment

From live music and dancing, to parties and games, Travelmarvel's Vega will keep you entertained day and night. Read more

Sun and Sky Decks
Sun and Sky Decks

Enjoy an unimpeded view of Europe from the Sun and Sky decks, available to you throughout your cruise. Read more

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Trip Reviews (5) Most Recent 'Eastern Europe with European Gems' Reviews

4.8
AVG. RATING 4.8 / 5
5 Reviews
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4 Star
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1 Star
Retirement Trip with Travel Marvel   0 , WA, Australia, Sep 2024
Thank you Hannah for being such a great agent from start to finish - nothing was too much trouble and we really appreciate our positive Global Journeys experience! We really enjoyed our Travel Marvel Eastern Europe extension and Budapest to Amsterdam cruise. Sadly the weather on the cruise was not great so never really got to experience fully the top ...read more deck! Our cruise director Hedleigh was great and an organisational wizard! Our only hesitation to do another was perhaps it was a bit too regimented for us - kind of a bit ground hog day with the food on board (which was great but not a lot of change from day to day) and similarity of the organised tours in each place with some tour guides excellent but others not great! Highlights for me - the concert in Vienna - don’t miss it - and I really enjoyed the various ‘bergs’ and the home visit in Miltenberg! Some of the German towns were lovely and we met some great people on the tour! Overall this was a great holiday - the river ships are really nicely done - French balcony cabin great and staff on board friendly!
Eastern Europe & European Gems 2 , VIC, Australia, Jun 2019
The holiday went very well due to the assistance of Global Journeys and the arrangements put in place prior to leaving Australia. Travelmarvel's organisation was, as one would expect, tip top. The weather was great and there were no hiccups. Very happy with Global Journeys and Travelmarvel. Should I travel again I would gladly involve both organisa ...read moretions.
Wow, exceptional!! 5 , NSW, Australia, Jun 2017
Wow, this trip met our expectations and more. So very happy to recommend this trip. From the delivery of our travel pack, being met at the airport, transfers, land guide, coaches, hotels, river ship, all staff onboard..... exceptional. Our land guide was very knowledgeable, having studied history at university, and also being fluent in the languages ...read more of the countries we visited. The hotels were 5-star, and locations were very good. We travelled on Travelmarvel Jewel and can not fault the staff who were all very friendly and obliging. The food was incredible, with a great variety. The entertainment onboard was varied and relevant to the areas we were travelling. We will definitely be travelling with Travelmarvel again.
Fantastic trip with Travelmarvel 6 , QLD, Australia, Jun 2015
As we had never traveled with Travelmarvel before & knowing they were the lesser cost of APT we weren't sure what to expect . Arriving in Prague 2 days before our land tour was to start we were extremely pleased with the quality of hotel, modern, clean, well positioned. Meet & greet meeting we met Nick our tour guide,over the next 10 days he was The ...read more BEST guide we have ever traveled with, one couple were a day late due to their plane cancelling, Nick in his own time took them for a private tour of Prague. Nick continued to display his professionalism & unbelievable knowledge throughout the tour. 10/10. Over the coming 10 days tours, hotels etc couldn't be faulted.

Our cruise - ship, staff, service, food, entertainment & tour guide Cherie, all brilliant. We were once again pleasantly surprised , good sized room with plenty of storage, bed & pillows sooo comfortable. Entertainment, well every night we sang, danced & had a drink or 2 with our new friends from NZ, Melbourne & Brissy, oh what fun. All up our trip with Travelmarvel was fantastic & we'd have no hesitation to travel & recommend to others. Yvonne, many thanks for suggesting both tours, you were very patient whilst we were trying to make our mind up on who to go with. We wish you continued success in your profession & will definitely refer you to friends & give you our business if in the future we decide to travel. Once again thanks.
Cramped vessel, otherwise an enjoyable and relaxing trip 3 , Australia, May 2014
The only negative we could find was the lounge area on the vessel - Travelmarvel Jewel - was far too cramped for the number of passengers carried. Otherwise an enjoyable and relaxing trip. Excellent included meals throughout. Comfortable beds.

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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. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Travelmarvel. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Travelmarvel. 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.