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Real Central Europe

Real Central Europe

From $ 3,040 AUD

Description

Beginning in Germany and ending in Italy, this 15-day trip hits a whopping seven countries (without rushing them). You’ll see historic landmarks, medieval squares, hilltop castles, romantic canals and thriving nightlife as you make memories that last a lifetime. Beginning in Europe’s alt-capital, Berlin, walk the ‘Royal Route’ in Krakow, soak up the terracotta views of Prague and Cesky Krumlov, be charmed by picturesque Lake Bled and finish up among the postcard-perfect canals of Venice. Uncover local secrets with your leader and explore at your own pace, making the most of all the optional activities that you want to do. The best part? You’ll be doing it all with like-minded young travellers who want to travel Central Europe in the same way!

Trip Name
Real Central Europe
Last Updated
2024-03-12
Days
15
Capacity
16
Highlights
  • Start your trip with a bang in Berlin, where history and modern culture dance. If it’s nightlife you’re after, Germany’s capital is home to thriving bars, underground clubs and an alternative scene not to be missed.
  • Eat your way through Europe with a local leader who knows all the best spots! Enjoy an included market visit in Budapest, try Zapiekanka in Krakow and find delicious cheap street food in Italy and Prague.
  • Discover the magical Cesky Krumlov – you'd be forgiven for thinking you'd stepped straight into a fairytale, as this place is filled with medieval buildings, verdant countryside and the flowing Vltava River.
  • Dive into Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Venice and Krakow – with two nights spent in almost every destination, you’ll have time to eat, shop and sightsee at your own pace and not just catch a glimpse from a bus window.
  • Step into the pages of a fairytale on the shore of Slovenia’s Lake Bled – home to the bluest waters you might ever see. Explore the church on the island, walk around the lake surrounded by mountains and treat yourself to a slice of cream cake.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Cooperativa Coraggio. Donations help them regenerate 22 hectares of unused public land to create local jobs and produce organic food in Italy.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk. BOOKING MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS IN ADVANCE: To avoid disappointment we have outlined (where applicable) some important information on some of the major museums and attractions in Europe. Some of our groups have experienced long lines of up to four hours to visit some of the major sights, while some sights are so popular they are booked out completely months in advance, making it impossible for you or your leader to arrange a visit while you are on the trip. Please note that many museums and attractions in Europe are closed on Mondays or Tuesdays. We recommend you carefully consider which sites and museums you are going to want to visit and that you do some research and make your reservations in advance where possible. If applicable we've given you information in the day-to-day itinerary which outlines which day of the trip is a suitable time to make your reservations, as well as any other information that may help with planning your visit.

Day 1 - Berlin
Guten Tag! Welcome to Germany. Your adventure kicks off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight in Berlin. If you arrive in Berlin early, explore this dynamic city on foot – Berlin is packed with poignant historic sites, cutting-edge galleries and iconic architecture. The city also boasts a party scene that makes NYC’s nightlife seem tame. If you’re keen to see what Berlin is about, it’s highly recommended that you arrive a couple of days early. Why not get to know your new travel crew tonight and head out for currywurst (hot dogs covered in ketchup, Worcester sauce and curry powder) and a stein? Or you can hit the clubs and start this trip with a bang (we can’t guarantee you’ll get into Berghain, but just giving it a go is half the fun)!
Day 2 - Wroclaw
This morning, say goodbye to Germany and hop on a train to Wroclaw – the cultural centre of southwest Poland sitting on the banks of River Oder. You’ll arrive in the early afternoon. Settle into your hotel, then follow your leader on an orientation walk around the city that makes it feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. The rest of the day is free for you to explore how you wish. Maybe check out Ostrów Tumski (Cathedral Island), the Old Town Square and the Four Denominations District, where the city’s incredible architecture and history are on display. Or appreciate Wroclaw from River Oder and picnic with a few of your new travel buddies.
Day 3 - Krakow
This morning, board a train to Krakow – your base for the next two nights. As you stroll the pretty streets of the World Heritage-listed Old Town, glimpse gorgeous medieval architecture, castles, churches and sprawling squares with your leader. Grab some zapiekanka along the way – a baguette topped with mushroom and cheese – a beloved street snack. Later, strike out on your own and maybe visit Wawel Royal Castle, which sits atop a hill next to the Vistula River or glimpse the impressive St Mary's Basilica and its extraordinary wood-carved Gothic altarpiece. If churches are your thing, the neo-Gothic St Francis' Basilica is worth a visit.
Day 4 - Krakow
Today is a free day for you to explore Krakow at your own pace. Walking the ‘Royal Route’ – the former path of Polish monarchs – takes you past most of the Old Town’s greatest treasures, including Florianska Gate (a Gothic gateway tower where street musicians tend to play and local artists often display their work), the Barbician, a grand Baroque theatre and impressive churches and museums. If you can tear yourself away from Krakow, there are lots of interesting day trips available. Maybe head to Wieliczha to visit its 700-year-old salt mine – buried 135 m underground, this mind-boggling complex is a vast network of tunnels, pits and chambers all hewn by hand from solid salt! You’ll also find chapels with elaborate salt chandeliers and lakes deep underground. After a full day of sightseeing, why not hit one of Krakow’s cellar restaurants for a plate of pierogis and a cold drink.
Day 5 - Prague
This morning after breakfast, head to the Czech Republic. Take a bus to the town of Ostrava, then board the train to Prague. After checking into your hotel, your leader will show you some of Prague’s best sites on an orientation walk. Then you’re free to explore on your own. Maybe wander the streets of the Jewish Quarter and check out the oldest surviving synagogue in Europe or learn about Prague’s favourite son at the Franz Kafka Museum. Make sure to take a scenic stroll along the Charles Bridge and watch the Astronomical Clock in action as it ticks over. This is a gorgeous city, so exploring on foot is often people’s go-to activity.
Day 6 - Prague
Today you can enjoy more free time in Prague to visit the sites you missed yesterday. Prague Castle has a great viewpoint that provides sweeping views of the city’s red rooftops and medieval architecture. Consider a day trip to Kutna Hora, where you can visit Sedlec Ossuary, an eerie chapel decorated with human skeletons, or St Barbara Church and its medieval frescoes. Prague’s Old Town becomes particularly magical at night. Return for an evening stroll to soak up the atmosphere before checking out some of the town’s cosy cellar hangouts or underground Absinthe bars. If you’re into jazz, Prague also boasts one of the best scenes in Europe! Ask your tour leader for suggestions if you’re not sure where to head out tonight.
Day 7 - Cesky Krumlov
Bid farewell to Prague today and travel south to the fairytale-like town of Cesky Krumlov. Dating back to the 13th century, this tiny town closely resembles Prague with its gorgeous castle across the river and pretty mix of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Head out on a leader-led walk around town, as they provide insight into the architectural symbolism and Old Town mysteries. After, use some free time to head to the top of the Castle Tower for a great view of the town’s red rooftops and distant rolling green hills, explore the castle and its gardens or browse the shops that line the riverfront. If you’re feeling active, ask your tour leader about rafting and canoeing activities on offer (time and weather permitting).
Day 8 - Vienna
Hop onto your private transfer and travel across the border to Austria and the Baroque city of Vienna. A perennial favourite for the world’s most liveable city, Vienna is also a dream for starry-eyed travellers looking for delicious coffee and pastries (sachertorte, in particular), classical music and grand palaces. Get acquainted with the city on a leader-led walk and then enjoy some free time to explore on your own. Art lovers have their pick of museums to explore – maybe check out modern Austrian art at the Leopold Museum, paintings by Monet, Degas and Picasso at the neo-classical Albertina or the world’s largest collection of paintings by Austrian painter Gustav Klimt at Belvedere Palace. This evening, why not sample Vienna’s incredible musical heritage and catch a performance at one of the city’s historic venues such as the Vienna State Opera House.
Day 9 - Vienna
Spend another day exploring Vienna’s rich artistic and intellectual heritage. Maybe head to Schloss Belvedere (Belvedere Palace), Schoenbrunn Palace or the Hofburg Palace complex to discover Austria’s symmetrical take on over-the-top grandeur. Exploring some of the city’s more specific museums such as the Schnapps Museum, the Sigmund Freud Museum or the Globe Museum, which is located inside the impressive Austrian National Museum. Climb the tower of St Stephen’s Cathedral, take a spin on the Prater Ferris Wheel or catch a dressage show at the Spanish Riding School. If you didn’t head out last night, maybe cap off a culture-filled day with a spot of Mozart Bach or Schubert at the opera house.
Day 10 - Budapest
This morning you’ll continue your exploration of Europe’s opulent past in Budapest. Take a train and watch the scenery pass you by – when you arrive, your leader will show you around the city on an orientation walk. Later, visit the cavernous Great Market Hall to check out Hungarian specialties like langos (fried dough) and Mangalica (an endemic pig) meat and enjoy a delicious market snack with plenty of tasty local recommendations. More than just a fairy-tale-like ode to the past, Budapest is also a bustling city with hip bars, trendy cafes and plenty of cheap eats. Your evening is free and your leader will make sure that you're equipped with all of the insider knowledge when it comes to which are the best (and best-kept secret) ruin bars. A night out here might just be your highlight of the trip!
Day 11 - Budapest
Enjoy a free day to explore Budapest further today. Visible from pretty much everywhere in the city, the 13th-century Buda Castle is a must-see. Why not imagine how Hungarian kings used to live by touring the palace complex, which houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. Or you could head to Fisherman’s Bastion for the best view of the city before taking a leisurely stroll along the cobbled streets of the Castle District. Another option is a boat trip along the Danube River, where you’ll get a different view of the Parliament buildings, the Castle District and the bridges that link Buda and Pest. Tonight, find one of the many great dinner spots or head back to the ruin bars for a night out.
Day 12 - Bled
Get ready for a long day of travel today as you make the journey to Ljubljana. From there, you’ll travel to Bled – an impossibly scenic lakeside town tucked at the foothills of the Julian Alps. You visit plenty of pretty towns on this trip but Bled truly is something out of a fairy tale. Arrive in the late afternoon and head to its gorgeous lake. Here, your leader will point out the town’s best attractions, like its 11th-century clifftop castle and the small island in the lake’s centre. Use the rest of the day to search for Bled’s famous cream cake (which shouldn’t be hard, every cafe in town claims to make the best one) or choose to join the group for an optional dinner of Slovenian specialties.
Day 13 - Bled
Postcard-perfect Bled (the perfect spot if you need a new banging Instagram) is also tailor-made for adventure, and as today is a free day, it’s up to you how you’d like to get active (or chill out and stare at the scenery – it never gets old). Hiking, biking, canoeing and rafting are all on the cards so you can choose to hire a bike and explore the surrounds, head to Vintgar Gorge for a walk through its natural canyon or go rafting along the Soca River. If you’d like to keep it more lowkey, head to Bled Castle for some exploration or take a plenta (small wooden boat) to the church on the island in the middle of the lake to ring the wishing bell. You could even venture further afield and take a day trip to Bohinj – another pretty lakeside town. As always, your leader is there for a reason! Grill them about the options.
Day 14 - Venice
This morning, travel to Venice – brace yourself for some amazing scenery on the way. Venice is one of a kind, built over a hundred small islands connected by 400 bridges. As well as all those romantic canals, it has all the hallmarks of a fine old Italian city – world-class food, performance, art and architecture. Use your free time to explore – the best way to go is on foot. Try to take in all the famous sights, like the Grand Canal, the shops of the Rialto Bridge, the Palace of the Doge (ruler of Venice), the Piazza San Marco and its golden basilica, and the Bridge of Sighs. Don't even think about leaving until you've eaten some tiramisu! This is where the dish was born, and they know how to do it just right.
Day 15 - Venice
Your trip comes to an end today after breakfast. As there is much to see here, you may want to book an extra couple of days in Venice to give yourself more time to explore – just speak to your booking agent.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
13-04-202427-04-2024AUD $ 3,280-
04-05-202418-05-2024AUD $ 3,190-
18-05-202401-06-2024AUD $ 3,190-
01-06-202415-06-2024AUD $ 3,285-
06-07-202420-07-2024AUD $ 3,320-
20-07-202403-08-2024AUD $ 3,350-
10-08-202424-08-2024AUD $ 3,160-
24-08-202407-09-2024AUD $ 3,285-
14-09-202428-09-2024AUD $ 3,285-
28-09-202412-10-2024AUD $ 3,160-
19-10-202402-11-2024AUD $ 3,040-
16-11-202430-11-2024AUD $ 3,040-
14-12-202428-12-2024AUD $ 3,040-
08-02-202522-02-2025AUD $ 3,220-
22-03-202505-04-2025AUD $ 3,220-
05-04-202519-04-2025AUD $ 3,220-
26-04-202510-05-2025AUD $ 3,350-
10-05-202524-05-2025AUD $ 3,350-
24-05-202507-06-2025AUD $ 3,350-
07-06-202521-06-2025AUD $ 3,350-
05-07-202519-07-2025AUD $ 3,350-
19-07-202502-08-2025AUD $ 3,350-
26-07-202509-08-2025AUD $ 3,475-
09-08-202523-08-2025AUD $ 3,475-
23-08-202506-09-2025AUD $ 3,475-
06-09-202520-09-2025AUD $ 3,475-
13-09-202527-09-2025AUD $ 3,475-
27-09-202511-10-2025AUD $ 3,475-
11-10-202525-10-2025AUD $ 3,220-
01-11-202515-11-2025AUD $ 3,220-
06-12-202520-12-2025AUD $ 3,220-

Accommodation

Hotel (9 nights),Guesthouse (3 nights),Hostel ( 2 nights)

Transport

Train,Metro,Private vehicle,Public bus,Taxi

Map