zKrakow, Budapest + Prague

You’ll be warmly greeted at the airport and chauffeured to the intimate Hotel Wentzl, set in an historic mansion overlooking the medieval Market Square in the heart of town.

This morning’s private sightseeing showcases the architectural wealth of medieval Krakow c, beginning with a walk along the magnificent Royal Way. Continue along the cobbled streets of Old Town to stand in Market Square, one of the grandest and largest public plazas in Europe. Admire the magnificent Renaissance-era Cloth Hall and hear the bugle call from the tower of St. Mary’s Church. Ascend Wawel Cathedral for marvelous views over Old Town and enjoy lunch in a charming city restaurant. The rest of your afternoon and this evening are free to relax or explore as you wish.  Meals B+L

This morning you can pursue your own interests with the included guided excursion of your choice. Visit the historic Wieliczka Salt Mines c where miners have carved magnificent underground chapels from the rock salt. Begun in the 13th century, these elaborately decorated and now  beautifully illuminated caverns are remarkable to behold. Or join your private guide for a moving visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau c, the largest concentration and extermination camp that was operated by the Nazis from 1940 to 1945. Back in the city, the balance of your afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy as you wish.  Meals B

After breakfast, our private vehicle and driver will be waiting to take you on a delightful overland journey to the Hungarian capital. As the day unfolds, you’ll travel through southern Poland and across the border into the picturesque rolling landscapes of Slovakia – dotted with historic towns and timeless rural hamlets. Along the way, you’ll stop in a scenic high-mountain pass for lunch in a charming Slovakian restaurant set in a traditional wooden home. Continuing over the border and through the Hungarian countryside, you’ll arrive in  Budapest and check in to the Sofitel Chain Bridge Hotel. Our 5-star property is perfectly located closed to the banks of the Danube River in the heart of the city.  Meals B+L

Your private city tour of the Queen of the Danube encompasses the historic Buda Hills and vibrant downtown Pest. Stand in the impressive Heroes’ Square where you’ll learn about Hungary’s colorful history and then admire the stately grandeur of the Opera House. Visit Mathias Church, founded in the 13th century, and then explore along the Fishermen’s Bastion with its panoramic views of the river and magnificent neo-Gothic Parliament building. Return to your hotel and enjoy the rest of your afternoon at leisure.  Meals B

Join your in-the-know resident guide this morning to explore a bustling city market where you’ll shop for all the ingredients needed for traditional Hungarian Goulash. Then head over to the home of a local family where you’ll learn how to prepare this savory dish. After your hands-on cooking class, sit down with your hosts for a congenial Goulash lunch. The rest of your afternoon is yours to relax or explore at your own pace. Meals B+L

After breakfast, you’ll be chauffeured to the station for your included rail journey to Prague. Sit back in first-class comfort and enjoy the passing scenery. If you wish, you can fly from Budapest to Prague for an additional $300 per person.

On arrival in the Czech capital, a privately guided sightseeing tour shows you Prague Castle. With a history stretching back 1,000 years, this impressive complex is still the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic. Your tour includes a guided walk along the fabled Golden Lane, a narrow street lined with diminutive, brightly painted homes that date back to medieval times. Then check in to the enchanting Pariz Hotel, ideally located close to the landmarks of Old Town.  Meals B

Our specially-arranged private walking tour in Prague’s Old Town focuses on its wealth of magnificent Art Nouveau architecture. The afternoon is free to take advantage of your hotel’s perfect heart-of-it-all location. You might spend some time in the charming shops and cafes that surround the Old Town Square or delve into Prague’s rich Jewish heritage by exploring the landmarks in Josefov, the city’s ancient Jewish quarter. This evening, we’ve arranged for you to dine at the Municipal House, a cultural landmark in the heart of town; it’s regarded by many as one of the city’s most prominent Art Nouveau gems.  Meals B+D

This entire day is yours to enjoy as you wish. Your hotel’s prime location close to Old Town makes it easy to step out and explore at your own pace. You might check out some of the city’s charming cafes, shop for Bohemian art glass and local garnet jewelry or take a stroll across the statue-lined Charles Bridge.  Meals B

Today you’ll be chauffeured to the airport or rail station today for your onward journey.  Meals B