AMSTERDAM-PRAGUE- AUSTRIA -BUDAPEST

Amsterdam-Prague -Austria -Budapest

Duration

20 Nights / 21 Days

Tour Type

International

DAY 1 : India - Amsterdam

Welcome to Amsterdam! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! Prepare to be amazed by Amsterdam! Begin the afternoon with lunch in De Dam, the monumental square around which Amsterdam was built and the location of Koninklijk Paleis (Royal Palace). Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely stroll along Kalverstraat, the city's main shopping street, as you make your way to the Begijnhof, a former religious cloister for women, founded in the 14th century. Be sure to see No. 34 - it's the oldest house in Amsterdam. Today, we also recommend that you get acquainted with the city by choosing an optional tour such as 'Amsterdam Hop-on Hop-off Tour with Optional Canal Cruise' where you will have the opportunity to see Amsterdam's elegant mansions, bridges and major attractions aboard an open-top double decker bus and/or while gliding through its picturesque canals. Following your canal cruise, you may want to visit Amsterdam's Historisch Museum or enjoy coffee at Café Luxembourg, one of the city's best 'grand cafes,' located on Spuistraat. As evening approaches, make your way to Leidseplein, where illuminated humpback bridges along Leidsestraat offer views of the Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht canals, Amsterdam's 17th century Golden Age Grachtengordel (Canal Belt). Leidseplein's sidewalks almost overflow with cafe tables where you can stop for dinner or perhaps try Café Americain, an Art Nouveau /Art Deco treasure, dating from 1900.

DAY 2 : Amsterdam

Wake up early today and head to the Albert Cuypmarkt, the city's largest street market. located in the trendy De Pijp district, also known as Amsterdam's 'Latin Quarter'. Then proceed to the Rijksmuseum, where you can admire a treasure trove of Dutch masterpieces by artists such as Johannes Vermeer and Rembrandt van Rijn, including his famous 'Night Watch'. Afterwards, try fresh raw herring, a Dutch specialty, at Zeebanket van Altena, a Haringhuis fish stall located next to the Rijksmuseum. If herring isn't to your liking, then enjoy a picnic lunch under the trees of Museumplein before exploring the Van Gogh Museum, home to more than 200 priceless paintings by the famous Dutch artist. Time and/or interests permitting, you may also want to visit the Stedelijk Museum or attend a performance by the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra (if you have planned ahead and purchased your tickets in advance). Continue your afternoon with a relaxing walk or bike ride through Vondelpark. Then, as evening approaches, stop for a bite to eat at Kantjil and de Tijger, where you can Experience Amsterdam's intriguing love affair with Indonesian cuisine. Afterwards, make your way to the Homomonument, the world's first monument to persecuted gays and lesbians as well as Westerkerk. A bronze statue of Anne Frank adorns the square outside this 17th century Protestant church where Rembrandt was laid to rest. Climb up the steeple for unbelievably beautiful views of the city. Finally, you will want to visit Anne Frankhuis, the Prinsengracht canal house where Anne Frank hid from the Nazis during World War II. During summer, when the museum is busiest, it is open until 10 p.m., so it may be better to go in the evening. Otherwise, see the Anne Frankhuis first and go early because there is always a line. We suggest you buy your tickets early to avoid heavy queues.

DAY 3 : Amsterdam

Begin your day at the bright and colorful Bloemenmarkt, the famed floating flower market. market. The bulbs for sale are ready for export so you can take a bit of Holland home with you! Then pass by the medieval Munttoren (Mint Tower) with its graceful spire and chiming carillon on your way to Rembrandtplein. Stop here for coffee and a bite to eat in the Art Deco oasis of Café Schiller. Continue to the Magere Brug, the 'skinny bridge' for views over the Amstel River before proceeding to the Muziektheater, home of the National Opera and ballet. This afternoon, explore Waterlooplein, part of the old Jodenbuurt (Jewish Quarter), then make a quick visit to the Museum Het Rembrandthuis, former home of the famous artist (before going bankrupt). From here, follow Sint-Antoniesbreestraat as it curves around to Nieuwmarkt, a lively old market square. Afterwards, head on to De Wallen, the infamous Red Light District, which occupies one of the oldest parts of town. Amsterdam's Oude Kerk (Old Church) can be found here, as well as the Museum Amstelkring, known as Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder (Our Dear Lord in the Attic),. Originally Built in 1663, the attic of this bourgeois house conceals a secret Catholic church. On your final night in Amsterdam, make your way to the architecturally beautiful Centraal Station for some people watching before strolling to the rear of the station for panoramic views of the harbor. From the Waterplein West dock, you can catch a free ferry ride across The IJ waterway to IJplein, where you will find plenty of restaurants to enjoy dinner overlooking the old harbor.

DAY 4 : Amsterdam

You may want to explore the charming and historical Jordaan district, a former working class area that is now the favorite neighborhood of students, artists and young professionals. Along its narrow alleys and tree-lined canals, you will find many street markets, restaurants, and shops, as well as the Noorderkerk (New Church). Or you may wish to spend more time along the waterfront with a visit to the Science Center NEMO or Scheepvaartmuseum, is the Maritime Museum, where a thousand years of Holland's history as a seafaring power is recorded. When you think of the Netherlands, you think of tulips! If you are visiting in the spring, then we highly recommend a trip to the flower fields with our optional tour, 'Keukenhof Gardens and Tulip Fields from Amsterdam'. Holland also evokes images of windmills and scenic landscapes so if you want to get out of the city and explore a bit of Dutch history and culture, then try 'Zaanse Schans Windmills, Marken and Volendam Half-Day Trip from Amsterdam', where you will see the typically Dutch countryside of polders and little canals with wooden houses and locals wearing their colorful style of dress. With our tour, 'Delft, The Hague and Madurodam Half-Day Trip from Amsterdam' you will visit a Delft Blue Pottery, as well as The Hague, the city that seats the Houses of Parliament, and Madurodam, the miniature model of a Dutch town. Whatever your interests, be sure to check out our optional sightseeing tours for availability and prices.

DAY 6 : Amsterdam – Prague

Morning Breakfast, Check-out Hotel, Transfer to Airport, Fly to Prague. Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, Check in and do not give in to jet lag! The city of a thousand spires awaits you! Begin your visit in the Old Town (Staré Mesto). Old Town Square is the historical heart of Prague and it is here that you will find the Old Town Hall and its famous Astronomical Clock, dating from the 14th century. Be sure to see the hourly procession of the apostles on the clock and then climb (or take the elevator) to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city, including the Gothic spires of the Tyn Church and the Jan Hus monument. Then stop for lunch (and more amazing photos) at the rooftop restaurant of the U Prince restaurant on the square or try the traditional goulash and roast pork knee with cabbage and dumplings served at U Vejvodu, one of the original restaurants of the Pilsner brewery, located on Jilska Street. This afternoon, explore the Jewish Quarter (Josefov), including the Maisel Synagogue, the Pinkas Synagogue, the Spanish Synagogue, the Old Jewish Cemetery and the Jewish Museum. Afterwards, head to Powder Tower, one of the historical gates to Old Town. before continuing next door to admire the exquisite Art Nouveau interiors of Prague's Municipal House is home to Smetana Hall and the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra. This is a good place to stop for a cup of coffee or a bite to eat in the ground-floor restaurant. Or have dinner in the famous Sarah Bernhardt restaurant, located in Hotel Paris, opposite the Municipal House. Finish your evening with a romantic stroll across the Charles Bridge at night.

DAY 7 : Prague

Wake up early today and head for Charles Bridge to gaze upon its many statues and touch the Cross of St. Jan of Nepomuk. (You can climb the towers at either end of the bridge for panoramic views of the city.) Across the Vltava River, in Lesser Town (Mala Strana), you will want to visit the baroque Church of St. Nicholas as well as the Church of Our Lady Victorious, home to the famous 'Infant Jesus of Prague'. Afterwards, explore the quaint streets of this area, that were once home to diplomats and merchants and now house many foreign embassies. From Mala Strana, continue to the beautiful cloisters of Strahov Monastery, where you can stop for a refreshing beer and snack before visiting Prague Loreto and Castle Square and Prague Castle, which is not a single building but rather a complex of buildings and churches. Your tour of Prague Castle, founded in the 9th century, should include visits to St. Vitus Cathedral, the Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica, and Golden Lane. After a busy day of sightseeing, board a relaxing dinner boat cruise along the Vlatava River and admire the sights of Prague by night. Or if you enjoy opera, you can catch a performance at the famous Estates' Theatre, where Mozart's Don Giovanni was first staged in 1787.

DAY 8 : Prague

Begin your day exploring Wenceslas Square, the busiest and liveliest part of the city. There are many choices for dining and shopping in this area, especially on Na Prikope Street. Here, you should visit the National Museum at the top of the Square, with its Hall of Fame devoted to famous Czech personalities, as well as the Alfons Mucha Museum on Panska Street, parallel to the square. This relaxing oasis showcases the Art Nouveau designs of the famous artist. This afternoon, head into New Town (Nove Mesto), to see the New Town Hall and Charles Square before continuing towards the river to Dancing House and the Manes Exhibition Hall, dominated by a 15th century water tower and dedicated to all forms of visual arts. Its juxtaposition of old and new makes it one of the most photographed landmarks in Prague. Afterwards, follow the river up to the National Theatre then cross the Legion Bridge. Time permitting, make your way to Ujezd tram stop and follow the signs for 'Lanove drahy' to ride the funicular up to the Petrin Tower (Little Eiffel Tower) for the most amazing views of the city! Finally, spend your last evening wandering around the quaint shops and restaurants of Kampa Park before making your way across the Charles Bridge one last time.

DAY : 9 Prague – Vienna

Morning Breakfast, Check-out Hotel, Transfer to Train Station, Arrival in Vienna and Proceed to your hotel. Should you desire, we offer private transfers where a representative will meet you at the train station and transfer you to your hotel. (Click on Hotel.) Transportation in the Booking Process: Check into your hotel and enjoy lunch; or savor the true flavor of Vienna in the chandelier-lit splendor of a nearby kaffeehaus. Every afternoon Around 3 p.m., the coffee and pastry ritual of 'Kaffeejause' takes place across the city. Afterwards, we recommend that you get acquainted with the city by choosing an optional tour such as 'Vienna City Hop on Hop Off Tour, ' showcasing the main sights of the Austrian capital, or 'Vienna Sightseeing Tour with Danube Boat Ride'. As night falls, take a horse-drawn Fiaker carriage from Stephansplatz to clip-clop through the stately Innerestadt; then dine on classics like wiener schnitzel or Tafelspitz (boiled beef). with horseradish) at Sacher Hotel Restaurant. For dessert, do not miss the legendary Sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam.

DAY 10 : Vienna

Wake up early today and head for St. Stephan's Cathedral, Vienna's 12th-century Gothic basilica, crowned by a 450-foot steeple. Climb the spiral steps of the South Tower for an amazing panoramic view of the city. Following your tour of the cathedral, stroll up the pedestrian only Kärntnerstrasse, the main shopping street, towards Staatsoper. This elegant and imposing building is Austria's leading opera house and presents some of the world's greatest music (often from famous Austrian composers). This afternoon, you may want to visit the Hofburg Palace, the winter palace of the Habsburgs. The complex is so vast that you are not likely to see it all in one day so try to visit the main attractions, including the Albertina, Augustinerkirche, Kaiserappartments (Imperial Apartments) and the magnificent Schatzkammer (Imperial Treasury), home of the Habsburg jewels, including the crowns of the Holy Roman and Austrian empires, as well as the greatest treasure, the Imperial Crown, dating from 962. Now is a good time to stop for coffee and a snack before visiting the Spanische Reitschul, the Spanish Riding school, where the famed Lipizzaner stallions have been performing for four centuries, and the Burgkapelle, home of the Vienna Boys' Choir. (With careful planning, you may be able to see a performance. Following a busy day of sightseeing, hop a streetcar for a ride around the entire Ringstrasse, the circle of tree-lined boulevards that enclose the old city of Vienna, whose monumental buildings reflect the imperial splendor of days gone by.

DAY 11 : Vienna

Begin your day at the Schönbrunn Palace, the stunning summer palace of the Habsburgs where you will want to see the State Apartments, followed by the Gloriette, the marble summerhouse and the palace's Imperial Gardens. Afterwards, take a break at Tiroler House (west of Gloriette). This was the favorite retreat of the Empress Elilsabeth, but nowadays a small restaurant and café. After lunch, plan to spend the afternoon at Kumsthistorisches Museum, housing the world's largest collection of Bruegels, along with the works of old masters such as Dürer, Rubens, and Rembrandt. Alternatively, explore the many attractions on display within the MuseumsQuartier Complex, notably the Kunsthalle Wien, the Leopold Museum, featuring the largest collection of works by Egon Schiele and MUMOK. On your final night in Vienna, dress up and head to the Staatsoper to enjoy the sound of music (perhaps Mozart or Strauss) and to see the world's most renowned opera stars perform, accompanied by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. Or make your way to the Prater where you can enjoy an exceptional panorama over the city at night from the top of the iconic Riesenrad ferris wheel. Dine at one of the many open-air cafes that line the park then leisurely stroll along the abundant tree-lined paths before saying, 'Auf Wiedersehen' to Vienna.

DAY 12 : Vienna – Salzburg

Morning post breakfast, we depart for the Storybook region of Austria (Salzburg). With the help of the Flexible 3 Days Austrian Pass, you can travel from Vienna to Salzburg. Welcome to Salzburg. The joke 'If it's baroque, don't fix it is a perfect maxim for Salzburg: the story-book Altstadt (old town) burrowed below steep hills looks much as it did when Mozart lived here 250 years ago. Beside the fast-flowing Salzach River, your gaze is raised inch by inch to graceful domes and spires, the formidable clifftop fortress, and the mountains beyond. It's a backdrop that did the lordly prince-archbishops and Maria proud. Upon your arrival at Salzburg train station, make your way to the hotel on your own. The rest of the evening is free for leisure or optional activities Best of Mozart Concert at Fortress Hohensalzburg in Salzburg Experience Best of Mozart’s concerts in the Golden Hall of the world-famous Salzburg Fortress (Festung Hohensalzburg) and witness an unforgettable view of the town and province. Make this a unique experience while in Salzburg and enjoy an evening full of great music and an excellent atmosphere. (Approx. Supplement Cost EUR 60 per person).

DAY 13 : Salzburg

Follow in the footsteps of the Von Trapp family and relive the classic movie on the Sound of the Music tour. See the Mirabell Palace and gardens, where Maria and the children sing Do Re-Mi, and Residenz Square, which Maria crosses by bus from Nonnberg Abbey – where the real-life Maria and Baron von Trapp were married in 1927 – on her way to the Trapp Villa singing I have confidence in me. The Rock Riding School is a particularly significant location as the real-life Trapp family sang there before they fled Austria following the Nazi takeover. In the film, they sing Do-Re Mi, Edelweiss and So Long, Farewell in a memorable scene. Leopoldskron Palace was used as the Von Trapp family home and while the gazebo used for the famous 'I am 16 going on 17' scene was here in the film, it is actually at the Hellbrunn Palace. Head out of town before finishing this part of the tour and visit the beautiful church at Mondsee, where the wedding scene was shot. Continue on to visit one of the salt mines that are central to the history of Salzburg, which means salt fortresses. At the mine, receive protective clothing to keep warm – and to look the real deal. Travel in a former miners’ train into the heart of the mountain and discover this secret world of kilometers-long labyrinths. Have fun on the miner's slides, and enjoy a raft cruise across a subterranean salt lake with a multimedia show that will not light up the underground lake but also your hearts.

DAY 14 : Salzburg – Innsbruck

Breakfast at the hotel and upon completion of check-out formalities, you will have to make your own way to the train station for your next destination: Innsbruck. Welcome to Innsbruck. Tyrol's capital is a sight to behold. The jagged rock spires of the Nordkette range are so close that, within minutes, it's possible to travel from the city's heart to more than 2000m above sea level and alpine pastures where cowbells chime. Summer and winter activities abound, and it’s understandable why some visitors only take a peek at Innsbruck proper before heading for the hills. Check-in at the hotel and the rest of the day is free for leisure or relaxing activities. (Please note that the standard check-in time would be at 15:00 hrs or subject to hotel discretion. In the evening, you can opt for Tyrolean Evenings Family Gundolf + Hotel Pick Up Authentic Tyrolean music, folk dances, and "shoe-slapping" are the order of the night served up with typical songs and, of course, yodeling! Dressed in the traditional costume of dirndls and lederhosen, our dancers take a position and entertain with performances and routines that are bound to get you clapping along. The Gundolf family has been entertaining and organizing Tyrolean Evenings in Innsbruck since 1967 and know how to show you the best of Tyrolean hospitality and music. You can also upgrade your evening to include a three-course meal featuring local specialties: Tyrolean herb cream soup, Wiener Schnitzel with potatoes and salad, and apple strudel with whipped cream. (Approx. Supplement Cost EUR 75 per person).

DAY 15 : Innsbruck

Breakfast at the hotel is followed by a breathtaking experience at Nordkette. (Guest will have to make their own way to the Starting Point: Rennweg 3, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria. Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Austrian mountains with a round-trip cable car ride between Innsbruck city center and the Nordkette, at the heart of the country's nature park. Visit a cable car station designed by Zaha Hadid, then watch the ground drop away as you travel to Seegrube. Get a bird's-eye view of Europe’s steepest ski slope and spot climbers on the rocky face of the Karwendel. Explore the mountain at your own pace before boarding the cable car to make the return trip to Innsbruck.

DAY 17 : Vienna – Budapest

Arrive at the train station in Budapest and proceed to your hotel. Should you desire, we offer private transfers where a representative will meet you at the train station and transfer you to your hotel. (Click on Hotel Transportation in the Booking Process.) Check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing bite to eat at the famous Gerbeaud coffeehouse, opened in 1858. This afternoon, we recommend that you purchase one of our optional tours to acquaint yourself with yourself with the city. The 'Big Bus Budapest Hop On Hop Off Tour' stops at many different landmarks around the city, allowing you to explore Budapest at your leisure. Also popular is the 'Budapest Sightseeing Cruise' where you can relax and admire the panorama of the city, including the Chain Bridge and the imposing Parliament building (the second largest in Europe after Westminster), from the beautiful Blue Danube. This evening, mingle with the locals. Enjoy a traditional meal of Hungarian goulash and chicken paprikash before heading out to a local bar or club. Budapest has many lively nightlife possibilities to suit every taste; just remember the bar and club scene starts late and lasts until morning. On the other hand, Budapest is a cosmopolitan city with a remarkable variety of cultural events. It is home to one of Europe's finest opera houses and you won't regret seeing its splendors up close, whether it be opera, ballet or theater performance. We also recommend the program of Hungarian dancing accompanied by a Gypsy orchestra at the Municipal Cultural House.

DAY 18 : Budapest

—This morning we recommend that you purchase our optional tour 'Budapest City Walking Tour'. The tour begins at the Opera House with a short ride by Millennium metro (the first underground metro line in continental Europe) to reach Heroes' Square and City Park. Afterwards there is a visit of the Vajdahynyad Castle complex followed by a stop at the Szechenyi bath house where the guide will explain about Hungarian bath culture. Continuing on, you will see the areas of Deak Square, Elizabeth Square and St Stephen's Basilica before taking a break in a cafe for a taste of Hungary's pastry called 'retes,' which is a strudel. Following a short stroll along the Vaci pedestrian street and Vorsomarthy Square, you will head down to Danube Promenade for spectacular views of Gellert hill and Citadel, Buda Hill and the Buda Castle district. After a brief stop at the former municipal hall you will cross the famous Chain Bridge. Then you will climb up the stairs into the Buda Castle district to see the Royal Palace, Matthias church and Fisherman's Bastion. From Fisherman's Bastion, sip a glass of wine as you watch the sun set over Pest. Wander through the old cobbled stone streets while you wait for darkness to fall - the views of Parliament and the Chain Bridge illuminated at night are absolutely breathtaking.

DAY 19 : Budapest

Budapest is home to many museums, including the Ethnographical Museum, the of Fine Arts and the Hungarian National Gallery. An afternoon in the Jewish district (District VII) will not disappoint. The Dohány Street Synagogue is the largest in Europe and the more humble Rumbach Synagogue is right around the corner. A trip to the Central Market Hall is not only a good place to pick up souvenirs but also a fun place for people watching. The balcony overlooking the whole market is an experience you should not miss. These days, most people have forgotten that the city was once filled with statues to Lenin. Marx and other representations of the Communist era. In the aftermath of 1989, a plan was conceived for an outdoor museum, Memento Park, for these unwelcome reminders of those difficult times. Besides the 42 statues, you will find a lot of symbolism and metaphors for the ugly realities of Communism. This evening, we suggest a trip to the Szechenyi bath house (or Gellért Baths) for some well deserved rest and relaxation. What better way to end your stay than soaking in the history and culture of this amazing city.

DAY 20 - Budapest

Should you be able to spend additional days in Budapest, then try a day trip outside of the city to experience even more of the rich history and culture of Hungary. We suggest our optional tour 'Szentendre Half Day Sightseeing Trip from Budapest', which will take you to the picturesque artists' village of Szentendre where you will visit the magnificent Caprice Hungarian Jewellery Center. The 'Danube Bend Day Trip from Budapest' is an excursion into Hungary's history. You will be taken to Visegrad, the former Royal Residence and to Esztergom, center of the Catholic Church.

EUROPE