On your Czech Republic tour you'll taste a sample of the exquisite sceneries, cultures and attractions unique to the heart of Europe on this stellar nine-day adventure through the Czech Republic, a country that lies in the top tier of memorable tour destinations around the globe.
Starting in the capital, Prague, we come across some of the world's finest architecture in a city that easily compares to Florence or Rome in terms of beauty.
Akin to a work of art within itself, Prague warrants at least a couple of days of exploration of its majestic castle, charming Old Town and Old Jewish Quarter, and its stunning monasteries, cathedrals and palaces.
A pleasant drive takes us to the Renaissance chateau of Konopiste, built in the 13th century, and along the Tepla River valley to Karlovy Vary, an internationally renowned spa town that is one of the oldest and largest in Europe.
Ending our tour through this extraordinary country in Cesky Krumlov, one of the most beautiful historic towns on the entire continent, ensures that our already-incredible journey leaves a lasting impression.
Prices below are per person, twin-sharing costs in US Dollars (USD). Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to below Prices & Dates table. For general information on flights to/from the tour, click here.
Select a date below to reserve your spot:
Optional Single Supplement: $490 USD (number of singles limited).
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Day 1 Arrive in Prague
Today we arrive in Prague and transfer to our hotel.
Prague lies on the seven hills flanking the banks of the Vltava River with the most outstanding views being from Prague Castle. Sometimes it is called Prague the Golden, sometimes Prague the City of 100 Spires. It is compared with Florence and Rome in its beauty. Thomas Mann said it was one of the world's most magical cities; Goethe called it the prettiest gem in the stone crown of the world. Virtually untouched by war, its architecture is Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassical, Empire and Art Nouveau.
Overnight in Prague.
Included Meal(s): Dinner
Day 2 Prague: Old Jewish Quarter & Wenceslas Square
Our WALKING tour today takes us to the Old Jewish Quarter and the old Town Square with its famous town bell and astronomical clock.
The Old Jewish Cemetery is an incredible sight. The second oldest in Europe, it was established in the 15th century. Burials took place from 1439 to 1787. Today there are 12,000 tombstones jammed together, leaning one on another, every one at a different angle and size, the whole creating a graphic and surreal image. We also visit the museum/memorial and the Klaus Synagogue with a permanent exhibition called "Jewish Customs and Traditions" highlighting the significance of the synagogue and Jewish festivals.
We continue to the Old Town Square. The 15th century designer of the astronomical clock located here was master clockmaker Hanus of Ruze. According to legend, he was blinded by Prague's town councilors for fear that he would make another like it for another town; so magnificent and applauded was his creation. One day toward the end of his life, he asked a friend to lead him to his great creation. As the figure of Death tolled the hour, Hanus thrust his hand into the clock's apparatus; the clock stopped, and it was centuries before a craftsman could be found who was skilled enough to make it work. In World War II, the clock is said to have stopped again after the Nazi murder of hundreds of citizens of Prague.
We finish our walking tour at Wenceslas Square in time for lunch (your own account). The balance of the day is at leisure. Prague is famous for its concert halls: The Municipal House, Rudolfinium, Mozart Theatre, National Theatre, The State Theatre -- all of them close to the center of the city with performances almost every night. Your Tour Leader can help organize optional evening activities.
Overnight in Prague.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 3 Prague: Prague Castle & Old Town
Our morning sightseeing tour of Prague travels through the city centre to Prague Castle. We begin our WALKING tour near Pohorelec Square before the Cernin Palace. As we head towards the castle we will pass the following: Strahov Monastery, the Loreta, the Cappucin Monastery, and the Archbishop's Palace. Before entering the castle, we will pause by the wall for a city panorama and orientation before our 2-hour visit of the castle.
We enter into first courtyard with its famous fountain and walk over to the Chapel of the Holy Cross. We continue to the St. Vitus Cathedral and visit the choir and crypt before heading to the third courtyard. Here we enter the Old Palace from St. George Square and then continue toward the Golden Lane (Kafka's House) where we pause for a break and refreshment, and then carry on the Old Castle Steps with photo stops along the way.
We will stop at Nikolas Church before crossing the ancient Charles Bridge (Karluv Most), an artistic masterpiece famous for its vendors and artists. For over four hundred years, this work of art, built by King Charles IV in 1357, was the only link between the two halves of Prague. We admire the many sculptures as we walk across. We finish the formal part of our tour in the Old Town, an excellent spot for lunch. The afternoon is free to further explore this amazing city.
Overnight in Prague.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 4 Prague - Konopiste - Karlstejn - Karlovy Vary
After our morning departure from Prague we visit the Renaissance chateau of Konopiste and its priceless interiors. Set in a hilly wooded park, this castle was built as a stronghold at the end of the 13th century, the present appearance dates from alterations made at the turn of the 19th to 20th century by the last owner, Franz Ferdinand d'Este.
After a lunch break we enjoy a tour of the Karlstejn Castle, a Gothic fortress and home to the imperial crown jewels. After our visit we continue east toward the famous spa of Karlovy Vary (Karlsbad). This town is beautifully located in the valley of the Tepla River and is famous for being one of the oldest and largest health spas in Europe. The hot medicinal spring water is famous the world over.
Overnight in Karlovy Vary.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 5 Karlovy Vary
This morning we have a half-day WALKING tour of Karlovy Vary, an elegant spa town, and favourite retreat of crowned heads and international celebrities. "When the disorder becomes a disease, doctors prescribe the hot waters of Carlsbad." Our walking tour will take in all the sights, including the many springs and the graceful Mill Colonnade. A ride up the nearby funicular provides us with great views of the surrounding landscape of beech and oak forests.
The afternoon is at your leisure in this charming town.
Overnight in Karlovy Vary.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 6 Karlovy Vary - Marianske Lanze - Cesky Krumlov
This morning we depart for Marianske Lazne. The historic centre of the town stretches along the spa colonnade with its unique singing fountain and the main avenue lined with pastel coloured Art Deco facades. Most of the old state spa buildings date from the second half of the 19th century and are set amidst thickly forested hills. After our visit we depart for Southern Bohemia, where many towns have a Bavarian or Austrian flavour. In the late afternoon we arrive in the town of Cesky Krumlov.
Medieval arcades and etched Renaissance facades in apricot, beige, and pea-green shades; rust-red, pink, and golden Baroque buildings surround this cobble stoned square with a Plague Monument (Morovy sloup) in its centre. Here you can explore the square, the side streets, and the winding River Vltava that separates the Old Town from the towering castle. This is undoubtedly one of the most exquisite towns in the Czech Republic.
Overnight in Cesky Krumlov.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 7 Cesky Krumlov: Castle Tour
Cesky Krumlov is undoubtedly one of the most exquisite towns in the Czech Republic, and always a favorite among travellers. Today we will visit the mighty Renaissance castle of Cesky Krumlov, once the seat of the powerful Lords of the Rozmberks and the Schwarzenbergs. The castle houses a rich collection of period furniture, tapestries and historical weapons. The present castle complex is one of the largest in Central Europe and was recorded on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1992
The great castle complex dominates the town of Cesky Krumlov. Under the Castle Complex lies the old town with its winding alleys and venerable Gothic and Renaissance houses. The historical centre of the town is on the UNESCO Heritage list, and after our castle tour the rest of your day will be free to stroll in this historical city centre. Explore the backstreets, visit the small shops and cafes, and wander the pathways along the river.
Overnight in Cesky Krumlov.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 8 Cesky Krumlov - Prague
This morning we transfer back to Prague via private coach with the balance of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Prague.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 9 Departure
Departure from Prague.
STASTNU CESTU!
Included Meal(s): Breakfast
Inclusions
Breakfast and dinner (hotels & local restaurants) daily. All sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as 'visited' in the detailed itinerary. Gratuities for local guides, drivers, restaurant staff, porters. Airport transfers for land & air customers arriving / departing on tour dates.
Exclusions
International airfare to/from the tour. Tour Leader gratuities, lunches, drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc), international air taxes (if applicable), excursions referenced as 'optional'. Airport transfers for Land Only customers. Our post-reservation trip notes offer further guidance on optional meal costs and shopping.
Seasonality and Weather
This tour is offered in spring, summer and fall the most popular of which is are spring and fall when temperatures are relatively mild and crowds thinner. Showers quite possible in spring and fall, somewhat less so in summer though can occur any time. Summers can be humid though long daylight hours maximize exploration.
Transport and Travel Conditions
Land transport throughout by private air-conditioned motor coach, 24-36 seats depending on ultimate group size (see 'group size'). Though we will have a couple of full bus days there are plenty of stops of interest. There may not be porters available in all locations. We also make use of public transit in some cities in order to maximize sightseeing where vehicles are impractical (most people quite enjoy this insight into daily life).
This trip is typical of most of our European tours, which are ambitious and involve full days of travel and sightseeing. While we don't have any actual strenuous activity (ie hiking) built into the program, you will do a lot of walking on this trip. These walks will mostly be in the form of walking tours of towns and cities and short walks to dinner. Being Europe, and a hilly/mountainous area, cobbles, uneven surfaces, and slopes/stairs are common. If you are accustomed to typical "bus tours," which rely heavily on vehicular transport for all sightseeing activities, you should be aware that this tour is considerably more active.
Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form.
Accommodation
Well-located, air- conditioned, mid-range hotels (3 star) throughout. Many are smaller properties (3-4 story) that may not have elevators. All hotels have en suite toilet and bath, though most have shower only. Porter service is sometimes available; you MUST be independent with your luggage. Single rooms are limited and likely smaller than twins.
Staff and Support
Tour Leader, driver, local step-on guides in various locales.
Group Size
Maximum 18 plus Tour Leader
Tour Extensions
This tour is part of a series that can be upgraded to make for a longer trip. For more options, please refer to tour code/s:
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 2 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 3 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
A little over two weeks is the duration of this stimulating Czech Republic and Slovakia tour and our time could not be better spent as we venture through the heart and soul of two of Eastern Europe's most rewarding destinations.
Starting in the Czech capital, Prague, a city that Goethe once called the prettiest gem in the stone crown of the world, we are exposed to a wealth of architectural style, from Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque, to Rococo, Neoclassical, Empire and Art Nouveau.
The castle and Old Town convey the long history and charming heritage of this, one of Europe's classic destinations and from here, we visit castles that date from the 13th century and Gothic fortresses en route to the world-famous spa town of Karlovy Vary.
We see for ourselves why UNESCO decided to grant World Heritage status to the ancient centres of Cesky Krumlov, and marvel at one of the most exquisitely beautiful towns on the continent.
Across the border in Slovakia, we set off from Bratislava and head towards the mountain range of the Low Tatras, finding on our way emerald-green glacial lakes and evidence of the country's former subservience to the Hungarian Empire.
Pieniny National Park surely vies for title of most beautiful and serene landscape in Europe and we see Slovakia from all perspectives, from deep within the 'Cave of Freedom' in the Demanova Valley, to atop the summit of Mount Chopok.
A special treat before we return home, we cross into Hungary to take a couple of days to explore its remarkable capital city, Budapest.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 3 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
Czech Republic, Slovak Republic & Hungary tour from Adventures Abroad: We land in the heart of Europe when we touch down in the Czech Republic and the ever-exciting atmosphere and stunningly attractive setting of Prague sets the perfect pace for this magnificent 21-day tour through three of Eastern Europe's most rewarding destinations.
Truly one of the world's most magical cities, Prague seldom fails to spellbind, whether it be due to the spectacular vistas from the battlements of the castle, to one of the many quaint, fountain-lined courtyards, to one of the intricately carved historic sites in the Old Town, or to the charming ambiance that is hard to replicate elsewhere.
Renaissance chateaux, Gothic fortresses and centuries-old monasteries and churches mark our route as we travel via the famous spa town of Karlovy Vary en route to Marianske Lanze, with its unique singing fountain, and Cesky Krumlov, one of the most exquisite towns in the country.
The 16th century World Heritage town of Telc is our final destination before we cross the border through the Small Carpathians into Slovakia.
From touring the oldest centres of Slovakia's capital, Bratislava - a city that was under Hungary's dominion for one thousand years from the 10th century until 1918 - we head into beautiful countryside at Pieniny National Park and to the foothills of the Low Tatras, where we explore fascinating caves and ascend glorious mountainsides in chairlifts for some of the best views in Central Europe.
Hopping over to Budapest, Hungary, we wander wide avenues lined with stately old buildings and admire an array of architectural style that encompasses Byzantine, Moorish, Romanesque and Hungarian influences.
Budapest yields no shortage of activity and attraction, but when we leave the glittering capital bound for Holloko, one of the most enchanting towns in the country, and to quaint villages in the Bukk Hills, we get the chance to see another side of Hungary; one that is not geared to, nor been altered by, mass tourism.
Hortobagy National Park and Wildlife Preserve on the Great Hungarian Plain never fails to leave a lasting romantic impression.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 4 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
Hungary, Romania, Slovak & Czech Republic Tour from Adventures Abroad: Experience the best of culture, spectacle and nature on this 28-day adventure through four highly memorable tour destinations in the heart of Europe.
Prague, the capital city and jewel in the crown of the Czech Republic, presents the perfect introduction to a region of the world steeped in history and brimming with attraction, both modern and ancient.
This magical city has a wholly unique atmosphere and having remained largely undamaged by the Second World War, boasts mazes of cobblestone alleys, mediaeval courtyards and historic site by the dozen.
We visit the castle, the Old Town, the Jewish Quarter and Wenceslas Square, allocating enough time to let the poignant beauty of this metropolis sink in and then it's off to tour Renaissance chateaux, Gothic fortresses and the world-famous spa town of Karlovy Vary.
Visits to Cesky Krumlov and the Heritage Site of Telc bring our Czech Republic leg of our tour to an exquisite close. In Slovakia, we travel from the exciting capital, Bratislava, through picturesque rural sceneries punctuated by quaint towns and striking chateaux and on to one of Central Europe's most beautiful natural environments at Pieniny National Park.
We come across unique wooden architecture amid the Low Tetras mountain range and mediaeval monasteries near the border with Poland before crossing into Hungary and heading for its capital, Budapest.
Known as 'the Paris of Central Europe', Budapest is as romantic and harmonious as a city can be, a feature that is mirrored in the enchanting towns of Holloko, where traditional dress is still worn by women, and Debrecen, the largest town in Eastern Hungary and today an important market town.
As we make our way through glorious Hungarian countryside, stopping in at villages to mingle with friendly locals, taste local culinary delicacies and get a feel for rural lifestyle, we discover that there's so much more to this country than its famously bewitching capital.
Last on our destination list is Romania, a country with a fascinating blend of old and new. From the garden city of Bucharest, via the Bucovina monasteries with their stunning displays of Byzantine-influenced art, the Carpathian Mountains and UNESCO-designated fortified churches atop the Transylvanian plateau, we see the spectacular variety of man-made and natural wonder that Romania has to offer and discover its true character for ourselves.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 5 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Slovak & Czech Republic Tour from Adventures Abroad: This epic, 35-day extravaganza of a tour is the ultimate showcase of the histories, cultures, landscapes and natures of these five exciting destinations in Eastern Europe and the Balkans.
Beginning in Prague, a city that is often compared to Florence and Rome for its beauty and one that Goethe once called the prettiest gemstone in the crown of the world, we begin our Czech Republic leg of the tour basking in the glories of one of the most stunning and memorable metropolises on the planet.
We also visit world-famous spa towns; take a ride up a funicular to admire striking vistas; and spend time in the UNESCO-designated historic centre of Cesky Krumlov, perhaps the most exquisite city in the country.
We travel through regions famous for orchards and vineyards in the Slovak Republic en route to Bratislava, the capital and often the most popular attraction in the country.
After comprehensive exploration of the country's largest urban centre, we head to one of the most impressive areas of natural beauty in Central Europe at Pieniny National Park, before pressing on to Budapest, Hungary.
From Hungary, we cross into Romania, starting this leg of the adventure in Bucharest, once known as 'The Paris of the East'. A historically fascinating destination, Romania is home to over 2,000 fresco-brimming monasteries, dozens of picture-perfect castles and countless fortified villages.
Regions visited: Central And Eastern Europe
Countries visited: Czech Republic
*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.
The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.
The hotel consists of three structurally connected historical buildings of Gothic Renaissance origin located between the square and Kájovská and Na louži streets. Within the years each hotel building went through Renaissance and Baroque reconstructions and refurbishments.
