Hungary to Slovenia

Welcome to Hungary! As you arrive in Budapest, you will met and transferred to our hotel. Following check-in, take the opportunity to explore this charming city, celebrated for its iconic bridges and thermal baths, often referred to as the "Paris of the East." You will have the rest of the day at your leisure.

After breakfast, we will head out for a guided tour of Budapest, blending walking and driving to explore the city. With its unique and youthful atmosphere, Budapest stands out as one of Europe's most delightful and enjoyable cities.

The Budapest sightseeing tour will take us to view all the major landmarks, including the iconic Chain Bridge, Margaret Bridge, the Castle District with Elisabeth Bridge and the Hungarian Parliament Building. We will also visit Heroes Square, showcasing statues that honour Hungary's heroes. Next, we travel to the city centre where we will be amazed by the architecture of the grand Hungarian Synagogue, the largest one in Europe.

You will then have some free time to enjoy lunch in the city, further explore or relax. After, we will have the chance to experience Budapest on a one-hour river cruise on the Danube River, where we will be served a glass of wine as we sail past the radiant Royal Palace, Parliament, and stunning bridges. For those looking for a longer cruise, you will have the option to opt for a two and a half-hour cruise including a traditional Hungarian dinner, with live music while sailing along the Danube River.

Budapest - Vienna. Today, we embark on a scenic drive to Vienna, arriving around noon. Vienna, a city of architectural wonders, boasts iconic landmarks that showcase a rich artistic history.

We will start with a tour of Vienna, starting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Schönbrunn Palace, one of Austria's most important architectural and historical landmarks. Known for being the Habsburg monarchy summer residence, displaying 300 years of history. As we wander through its rooms and chambers, we'll experience the grandeur and gain an understanding of the refinement of 18th-century court life.

Next, we will make our way to Café Residenz a warm, rustic bakery with vaulted ceilings, nestled in the Schönbrunn Palace for The Strudel Show, where we will watch expert pastry chefs prepare the original apple strudel. We will see the secrets in preparing this delicacy, while also being able to enjoy a slice. After, you will have free time to explore Vienna at your leisure.

For those interested in experiencing the 19th century, you can opt enjoy the Vienna State Opera or the historic Burgtheater, offering a glimpse into the city's rich artistic heritage. Both venues provide a genuine insight into Viennese elegance.

Please note: the Vienna State Opera or the historic Burgtheater visits, are based on availability, please let us know at the time of booking to ensure tickets can be secured.

Vienna (Austria) - Prague (Czech Republic). Begin our second day in Vienna with the legacy representing Austria's monarchy. We will enjoy a scenic drive passing the grand Parliament, the historic Burgtheater, and the towering Rathaus. As the Votivkirche spires emerge and you glide along the banks of the Danube, the city's regal past and modern present seamlessly blend.

We then continue on foot to the Maria Theresia Memorial, where we will explore the Hofburg Palace, where extravagant events once filled the halls. Next, we travel to view St. Stephen's Cathedral, famous for its stunning architecture, intricate details, and the impressive spire that towers over the city. As we explore St. Stephens Cathedral, we will see the influence of the Habsburgs.

Our journey continues to Prague, where we will stay for the next two nights.

Dive into the enchanting Prague today. Recognised as the 'City of a Hundred Spires,' Prague is gracefully nestled along the Vltava River, and is renowned for having the best-preserved medieval town center in Europe.

Begin our sightseeing adventure at the home of the Prague Castle (Pražský hrad) as we visit the Hradčany castle district. You'll be able to enjoy great views of Prague Castle, officially recognised as the largest ancient castle globally. Within the city walls, observe a diverse collection of historic buildings, museums, and galleries, including Saint Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the Basilica of Saint George. Then, descend to the old city, stopping at two viewpoints for breathtaking views of the city.

Below the castle, traverse the fairytale-like Charles Bridge and wander through the quaint, enchanting streets of the old town. Eventually, we reach Old Town Square, to get a glimpse of the Town Hall and the Astronomical Clock – one of the world's oldest clocks and a symbol of Prague.

Later, we will have the opportunity to enjoy Czech eating experience at a local restaurant offering local dishes, like crispy pork knuckle, homemade goulash, and other specialities offered on the day. Each dish is served with a handpicked starter and dessert like traditional pickled Czech camembert, pork cracking, sweet blueberry dumplings or other specialties. After, we will make our way back to the hotel.

Prague - Karlovy Vary - Loket - Prague. Today, we will travel to Karlovy Vary, a quaint town historic spa town. Named after Charles IV, Holy Roman Emperor, who founded the city in the 14th century. Renowned for its graceful colonnades and healing mineral springs, it is the ideal spot for rest and renewal.

We then make our way to the village of Loket, set against the scenic backdrop of the Ohře River. As we cross the bridge, we will notice the historic Loket Castle perched on the cape. Known as the "Key to the Kingdom of Bohemia" that influenced Charles IV. With the riverside at view, a setting for live music performances and beauty of Loket.

Next, we will enjoy a unique beer tasting at a 14th century Czech brewery, giving us an insight into the countries brewing history. We will sample 3 craft beers choosing from Dark, Lager, Ruby beer, and others, tasting flavors that have been perfect over the centuries. We will then make our way back to the hotel in Prague.

Prague - Česky Krumlov - Austrian Countryside. Departing Prague, we travel to Česky Krumlov, a picturesque town divided by the Vltava River, we will be able to view the medieval castle blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The castle boasts a 17th-century Baroque theatre, one of only two in Europe. As we explore the Old Town’s cobbled streets, we admire the mix of Renaissance and Baroque architecture, with 12th-century Gothic foundations beneath the facades.

We then make our way to Austria’s Salzkammergut region for our hotel check in, renowned for its stunning lakes, lush plateaus, and vibrant natural beauty. As the day draws to a close, we reflect on the striking contrast between the elegant architecture of the Czech Republic and the breathtaking landscapes of Austria.

Austrian Countryside - Hallstatt - St. Wolfgang - Austrian Countryside. After breakfast, we travel further into the Salzkammergut region of Austria. Renowned for its lakes, rolling hills, and pristine beauty, this area offers a stunning mix of shimmering waters, lush mountains, and alpine peaks.

Our first stop is Hallstatt, where we can observe pastel houses reflect in the tranquil lake, surrounded by towering mountains. Hallstatt’s charming beauty offers an unforgettable experience. As we stroll through the Market Square and narrow streets, we uncover the village's rich history, culture, and stunning views at every turn. We then visit the Hallstatt Skywalk, offering panoramic views 360 metres above the town. This thrilling skywalk gives us a unique perspective of the stunning alpine landscape. You will have free time to explore the trails, you can take in the Hallstatt high valley or relax, soaking in the vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains.

After, we will make our way to St. Wolfgang, near Lake Wolfgang shadowed by Schafberg peak rises up to 1,200 meters above the town. You will have some free time to explore the local shops, offering handcrafted souvenirs that capture the essence of the Alpine region. In the afternoon, we will then have a chance to explore Lake Wolfgang on an electric boat ride, where you will have the opportunity to sail the lake on your own. After we will make our way back to our accommodation in the Austrian Countryside.

St. Gilgen (Austrian Countryside) - Salzburg - Lake Bled (Slovenia) - Ljubljana. Today, we leave the Austrian countryside and journey to Salzburg, renowned as Mozart’s birthplace. As we explore the city's baroque old town, our guide will share fascinating local legends and hidden tales. We’ll then make our way to the Salzach River, where we can savour a traditional marzipan-filled chocolate, Mozartkugeln.

Next, we make a short stop at Lake Bled, an alpine gem famed for its picturesque island and stunning scenery. A cherished landmark of the Slovenian Alps, it has captivated visitors for centuries with its natural beauty and charm.

As we arrive in the capital city of Slovenia, we’ll notice a blend of historic architecture and modern sustainability, reflecting Slovenia’s eco-conscious ethos. The rest of the day will be at your leisure to enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants, explore or relax.

Ljubljana - Postojna - Ljubljana. After breakfast, we will start with a city tour of Ljubljana, a picturesque city known for its greenery, stunning architecture, and relaxed atmosphere, Ljubljana lies between the Julian alps and the Adriatic sea. one of Europe’s greenest capitals, it boasts a range of attractions, including dining and museums.

As we walk along the riverfront, we’ll pass landmarks such as the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, the Town Hall, Mestni Trg, Robba's Fountain, the central market, and the Triple Bridge, all embodying Ljubljana's charm along the Ljubljanica River.

After, we will make our way to the Postojna Cave, where we will travel by an electric train exploring the underground landscape filled with stalactites, stalagmites, limestone pools, subterranean gorges, and mesmerising underground waterfalls.

Our final stop for the day is the Goriska Hills, a region blended by Slovenia and Italy. Known for its wine production of white wines like Rebula and Sauvignon. This region is also known for the 14th century medieval village of Smartno, where we will have a chance to step back in time and uncover Brda. Amidst the vineyards and scenic views, we’ll visit a local winery to sample the region’s finest wines before making our way back to our hotel in Ljubljana.

Your European adventure comes to an end! After breakfast and hotel check-out, make your own way to the airport. Safe travels!