Highlights of Central Europe

8 Days
From CAD 3,250
Best Rate
Guarantee
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


(20 reviews)

Experience Overview

Travel through the Czech Republic, Austria and Hungary and experience some of the best bits of Central Europe. From the sleekness of Vienna, and from the architectural triumphs of Prague to the contrasting twin cities of Budapest, see how history, folklore and tradition are threaded through the fabric of modern life. Visit centuries-old castles, be spoilt by greenery in urban jungles, fall in love with Bohemian fairytale towns, marvel at the artistic talents of European masters and dig into a Hungarian feast cooked by a local family, especially for you. This adventure has it all.

Highlights

  • Hit three of Central Europe’s big cities; Prague, Vienna and Budapest. With your locally-based leader on hand and plenty of free time to explore at your own pace, you'll get to know all of the best spots and learn plenty of locals-only knowledge.
  • Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Czechia capital city of Prague. Experience Prague Castle – the largest castle complex in the world – and be awed by its 9th-century architecture.
  • Toast to your epic adventure with a home-cooked Hungarian feast on your final evening. You'll be invited into a local family's home where they'll teach you traditional recipes and you'll get a chance to taste your creations at dinner.
  • Join a local guide in the south Bohemian town of Cesky Krumlov and learn about the town’s history and thriving folk culture. After all, there’s no one better to show you around than the people that live there.
  • Be treated to sweet delicacies just like grandma would make at Vollpension café in Vienna, where elderly grandparents bake the best cakes and share the best hospitality with their visitors. More than just a cafe, the team here are working to bridge the age gap and provide extra income for seniors.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries.

Trip Details

Product CodeProduct Code: 1593

Tour TypeTour Type: Small Group

AccommodationAccommodation: Comfortable

TransportTransport: Train,Public bus,Private vehicle,Metro,Taxi,Tram

Guide LanguageGuide Language: English

Supplier CodeSupplier Code: AMKB

StartStarts: Prague, Austria

FinishFinishes: Budapest, Austria

DurationDuration: 8 days

DeparturesDepartures: Guaranteed

Physical RatingPhysical rating: Light

Includes

Meals: Breakfasts (7), Lunch (1), Dinner (1)
Accommodation: Hotel (7 nights)

Price

Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 3250 (CAD 406 /day)

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Prague

Vítejte v Praze! Welcome to Prague, the City of a Hundred Spires and the capital of the Czech Republic. Meet your new travel buddies and group leader at 6 pm for a welcome meeting. Afterwards, you might like to head out for a special welcome dinner together. You could tuck into a delicious meal at a Czech pub and enjoy traditional food like sausages, dumplings and salads, and fresh, crisp beer straight from the tank – just like a local. Did you know that the beer in the Czech Republic has three colours? Gold, amber and black – we recommend you try them all to see which one you like best.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

2
Day 2: Prague

Head to Prague Castle this morning and spend time exploring the Old Royal Palace, St Vitus’ Cathedral, St George’s Basilica and the colourful Golden Lane. Then, get a taste for Czech cuisine as you tuck into lunch at a local canteen that proudly serves up traditional dishes. There'll be plenty of lunching locals if you want to copy their order for the best dishes on offer. The rest of the day is free to do as you wish. You could wander the countless museums, or stroll the cobblestone streets, perhaps, café-hopping as you go. In the evening, maybe grab dinner with your new travel companions or hit the town solo. Your leader will have some great recommendations, no matter what you feel like.

Included Activities:

  • Prague - Castle Visit

Optional Activities:

  • Prague - Jewish Quarter (500 CZK)
  • Prague - Kafka Museum (260 CZK)
  • Prague - Mucha Museum (300 CZK)
  • Prague - Museum of Communism (380 CZK)
  • Prague - National Museum (350 CZK)
  • Prague - Town Hall Clock Tower (250 CZK)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

3
Day 3: Cesky Krumlov

Depart Prague today and travel by local bus to the southern Bohemian town of Cesky Krumlov. This picturesque medieval town dates back to the 13th century and is like something out of a fairy-tale. Cesky Krumlov (pronounced 'Chess-kee Kroom-love') means 'crooked meadow', which is befitting of a town that's nestled in a sharp bend of the Vltava River. Today, join a local guide for a walking tour of the town and hear tales of the mysteries that lie behind every shopfront and house on the crooked little streets. Later you might like to visit the town's castle or art gallery, or head out on an optional cycling or canoeing excursion.

Included Activities:

  • Cesky Krumlov - Walking Tour with Local Guide

Optional Activities:

  • Cesky Krumlov - Brewery Tour (200 CZK)
  • Cesky Krumlov - Rafting or Canoe Trip (per person) (1200 CZK)
  • Cesky Krumlov - Egon Schiele Art Centrum (200 CZK)
  • Cesky Krumlov - Guided Castle Tour (300 CZK)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

4
Day 4: Vienna

Depart Cesky Krumlov by private minivan this morning and cross the border into Austria, continuing to the cosmopolitan city of Vienna. Join your leader for a walk through the city's compact centre. Stop at the gothic-style St Stephens Cathedral, wander past the grand neo-classical Graben and onwards to the Hofburg Palace. Stop by Vollpension, where you can be treated to sweet eats just like your grandma made. This café aims to bridge the generation gap and bring people together through food by employing baking masters who happen to be ‘grandmas and grandpas’ to bake the freshest cakes in all of Vienna. Then, finish your orientation of the city at the State Opera House, one of the world's most important opera houses and the heart of classical Viennese culture. Art lovers have a vast choice of museums, from the Albertina to those located in the Museum Quarter. In the evening, perhaps head out for some Viennese cuisine.

Included Activities:

  • Vienna - Kaffee and Kuchen Experience
  • Vienna - Leader-led orientation walk

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

5
Day 5: Vienna

Wake up without an alarm today as you have the whole of today to explore Vienna and its surrounds at your leisure. You might like to head out to Schoenbrunn for a guided audio tour of the summer palace, designed by Empress Maria Theresa. The Gloriette Monument has incredible views of Vienna and the palace gardens are free to all visitors, although there is a charge for entrance and tours of the palace. Vienna is a beautiful city, so try to capture its essence as best you can while you're here.

Optional Activities:

  • Vienna - Albertina Museum (19 EUR)
  • Vienna - Belvedere Gallery (Upper & Lower Gallery Combined Ticket) (26 EUR)
  • Vienna - Leopold Museum (15 EUR)
  • Vienna - Prater Ferris Wheel (14 EUR)
  • Vienna - Schoenbrunn Palace (22 EUR)
  • Vienna - Sisi Museum (18 EUR)
  • Vienna - Spanish Riding School Practice (28 EUR)
  • Vienna - St Stephen's Tower (6 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

6
Day 6: Budapest

Today, you’ll take a scenic train journey across the border into Hungary to reach Budapest. Since the collapse of Communism, Budapest has experienced something of a renaissance. This afternoon is free for you to enjoy everything Budapest has to offer. It's the spa capital of the world so if you want to do nothing more than soak all day, you won't be judged here. In the evening, enjoy a home-cooked Hungarian meal with a local family. You'll be invited into their family home to enjoy a drink and snack on fresh vegetables, cheese, bread and homemade sausages in the garden. After whetting your appetite, you'll get a chance to roll up your sleeves and join the family in the kitchen to learn some of their Hungarian cooking specialties with a cooking masterclass. Then, tuck into your freshly prepared meal and enjoy dinner with your new-found friends and host family. Toast your Hungarian arrival with a taste of palinka, Hungarian fruit brandy.Perhaps rejoin the group for a farewell dinner.

Included Activities:

  • Budapest - Walking tour with local guide

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

7
Day 7: Budapest

Dive deeper into Budapest with a walking tour with a local guide to explore some of the city’s most interesting sights. There's no one better to show you all of the best spots and give you local insights like someone who lives here so be sure to follow closely and ask your local guide any of your burning questions about Budapest. You'll see the Hungarian State Opera House, St. Stephen's Church and The Chain Bridge. The grand architecture and boulevards evoke a time gone by, while glamorous stores and glitzy restaurants make this one of the truly great cities of Europe. You’ll enjoy views of the Freedom Statute and the Citadel, Gellért spa baths and Buda castle along your walk today. The remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy. 

Included Activities:

  • Budapest - Home-cooked meal

Optional Activities:

  • Budapest - House of Terror (4000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Hungarian National Museum (2900 HUF)
  • Budapest - Parliament Tour (12000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Bike Ride (6000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Central Market - Free
  • Budapest - Faust Wine Cellar Tasting (21 EUR)
  • Budapest - Great Synagogue (9000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Szechenyi Thermal Baths (starting from) (9400 HUF)
  • Budapest - Transport and Entry to Statue Park (5000 HUF)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

8
Day 8: Budapest

Your adventure comes to an end today. There are no more activities planned and you're able to depart the accommodation at any time. As there's not much time in Budapest, it's recommended that you stay an extra few nights so you can truly experience this beautiful city. If you need help booking additional accommodation, our reservations team can help (subject to availability).

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Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Reviews

 

Gina   -  Traveled, September 2023

Our trip exceeded our expectations thanks to Lilla’s brilliant leadership. She was incredibly welcoming and accommodating to everyone’s wants and needs. I was so impressed with how knowledgeable she was about each of the city’s extensive histories. She was able to foster a group environment where everyone enjoyed hanging out and learning together. I would never question booking a trip if I knew Lilla was at the helm. We miss her already!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/04/2023

 

Anna   -  Traveled, September 2023

The Highlights of Central Europe was my first time solo travelling and first time overseas from Australia. Our group leader was Mirek and he did a spectacular job looking after our group of 10, amazing knowledge of all destinations visited and fantastic recommendations along the way. The tour covered a lot in just 8 days, excellent accommodation along the way. Highly recommend!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/15/2023

 

Anne   -  Traveled, June 2023

Tour guide Agata was amazing, lots of free time, but expected more for a comfort level tour, quality not as good as previous tours

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/03/2023

 

Paula   -  Traveled, June 2023

I enjoyed the tour because the hotels and transport are sorted, we get an orientation tour in each destination, then get free time to do our "own thing", so I never felt like I was being "herded around" in a group. My only complaint is that I would have like to spend longer in each destination!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/15/2023

 

Brenda   -  Traveled, May 2023

Intrepid offered the perfect balance between providing logical support and historical and cultural insights, and providing time to explore the destinations on our own. We were hesitant about joining a group, but the small group of 11 people turned out to be a real asset. We really enjoyed hearing about their lives and travels, and they were a lot of fun!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/04/2023

 

Nikhar   -  Traveled, September 2023

Absolutely fantastic first experience with Intrepid.. the mix of activities and free time along with the orientation walks was a great way to feel comfortable navigating new places and cultures, our group leader Beata made each person individually feel connected and comfortable while fostering independence in exploration at our own pace. Can't wait to try more adventures with Intrepid!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/12/2023

 

Adam   -  Traveled, August 2023

Would thoroughly recommend this trip, our tour guide Jo was excellent and we got to experience a lot in a short space of time.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/03/2023

 

Maxine   -  Traveled, July 2023

My 8 day highlights of eastern europe was excellent and would recommend to anyone wanting a taste of these amazing destinations. Intrepid takes care of every aspect of your trip, guides are excellent and very helpful and hotels are amazing!!! We used public transport and minivan where needed. All these arrangements went without any problem. This was my 3rd trip with intrepid and highly recommend using them for your travels. Lots of interesting people in the trips… not just couples keeping to themselves. Met new friends and travel buddies.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/27/2023

 

Emily   -  Traveled, July 2023

Barni was a great leader and it was a great trip overall. I would not hesitate to recommend this trip to a friend.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/26/2023

 

Alan   -  Traveled, July 2023

Our Highlights of Central Europe tour allowed plenty of free time to mix and match our individual interests in and around the sites pointed out by the guide. Barni was an informative guide with a sense of humour and a caring nature which made the friendly group even more harmonious.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/01/2023

 

Sherry   -  Traveled, April 2024

What a wonderful trip of Central Europe. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay and all of the countries Hats off to Lilla she was an excellent guide with a wealth of knowledge and friendly

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/01/2024

 

Jackie   -  Traveled, April 2024

I would highly recommend this trip The balance between group and alone time was perfect. Hotels were good, food was good. Lilla was the perfect team leader friendly and knowledgeable Overall a fantastic trip

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/01/2024

 

Terry   -  Traveled, August 2023

The Highlights of Central Europe was our eighth Intrepid trip. It was a great introduction to the amazing cities of Prague, Vienna and Budapest, as well as the beautiful Cesky Krumlov. We were fascinated with the depth of history and troubles in this part of the world. Our leader, Lilla, was outstanding, guiding us through the journey, while sharing her great knowledge of the region.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/06/2023

 

Bronwyn   -  Traveled, April 2024

Wonderful exploration of the imperial cities of central Europe - the pace was relaxed with plenty of free time and multiple night stays in one location (less pack/repack) - great group of travellers from across the globe and a wonderful tour leader - Lilla. This is my 5th intrepid tour and one of the best!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/03/2024

 

Erik   -  Traveled, August 2023

Highlights of Central Europe is a great small adventure tour and suits the needs of every type of traveler and physical rating.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/16/2023

 

Kelly   -  Traveled, July 2023

This was my first tour, and I am a convert! I loved the small group, varied ages, and active agenda. This format gives plenty of flexibility while doing the hard work of the logistics for you. Intrepid have a great philosophy

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/30/2023

 

Cecilia   -  Traveled, April 2023

I loved this tour so much, I would seriously consider doing it all again! Such wonderful places with so much art and history! Amazing food too!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 04/22/2023

 

Allan   -  Traveled, April 2023

I enjoyed my first trip with Intrepid . The itinerary was great. Had enough time for me to see the sights at my own pace. Simone, our tour leader was great. I had wonderful experience and memories with the people I met from other parts of the world.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 04/24/2023

 

Margaret   -  Traveled, October 2022

These cities are absolute gems! We had a great tour, packed with lots of history and beautiful walking tours. Highly recommend if you have an interest in Central Europe!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/17/2022

 

Tina   -  Traveled, September 2022

Intrepid’s Central Europe tour was spectacular. They provide legwork so the group can concentrate on making the most of the trip. Each country had its own personality: Czech Republic with beautiful scenery and fairy tale castles, Vienna with its splendor and opulence and (my personal fav) Budapest with its gritty, hipster vibe and Asian influence.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/17/2022

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