Echoes Of Central Europe, Germany, Poland & Czechia

Itinerary

Itinerary

Day 1: We make our way through France and into Germany for our overnight stay at the Mercure Hotel Dusseldorf Neuss.

Day 2: We continue our journey through Germany for our three-night stay in the centrally located Occidental Dresden Newa Hotel.

Day 3: This morning, we visit the iconic Meissen Porcelain Manufactory. Tour the museum and demonstration workshop to discover the rich 300-year-old history of Europe’s oldest porcelain manufacturer. Afterwards, we visit the spectacular baroque castle and ornamental gardens of Schloss Pillnitz. Set on the banks of the Elbe River, once the summer residence of the Saxon Royal Family, this striking architectural masterpiece is an extraordinary ensemble of design where the far east merges with late Baroque, with Chinese-inspired structures and sprawling botanical grounds. At the end of our visit, we embark on a leisurely downstream paddle steamer cruise through the scenic Elbe valley from Pillnitz to Dresden. Sit back and relax taking in the stunning scenery of rolling vineyards and marvel at famous trio of romantic Elbe Castles.

Day 4: Our day begins with a fascinating one-hour guided walking tour of the breathtaking city of Dresden, beautifully situated on the banks of the Elbe. The remainer of the day is at leisure to wander through the historic Old Town and discover iconic landmarks including the imposing Frauenkirche Cathedral. You may also wish to visit Dresden Zwinger, a palatial complex ranked among Germany’s most well-known Baroque buildings and home to world acclaimed museums. In contrast, the Neustadt, on the north bank of the River Elbe is a vibrant, cultural area where you will find delights such as the Kuntshofpassage; a hidden network of interconnected courtyards filled with independent boutiques, galleries and cosy cafes.

Day 5: Today, we travel to Poland and the ancient city of Krakow with a stop en-route in one of the country’s historic cities – Wroclaw. The preserved old town and its magnificent Market Square with brightly coloured buildings is the place to head for, with cafes and restaurants dotted around. Or maybe take a stroll through the pretty streets and alleyways in search of the infamous Wroclaw dwarfs. With over 1,000 of these whimsical, brass statues hidden throughout the city they are now a major attraction, with ‘gnome hunting’ a fun and popular way to explore. Later today we arrive at the delightful Wyspianski Hotel in Krakow for our four-night stay.

Day 6: This morning, we will enjoy a half-day step-on guided tour of Krakow, one of Poland’s oldest cities and widely considered one of the most beautiful and welcoming in Europe. Our guided tour also includes a visit to the Oskar Schindler’s Factory, a poignant and emotional museum commemorating the Holocaust and Schindler’s efforts to save 1,200 Jewish people. Afterwards, we will have free time to visit the galleries and quirky shops of Krakow’s Jewish Quarter or wander through the charming UNESCO-listed Old Town with its cobbled streets, medieval houses and grand squares.

Day 7: Today we will experience a full-day visit to Auschwitz, the largest complex of concentration and extermination camps operated by Nazi Germany in occupied Poland during WWII. Now a memorial and museum, it is a global symbol of the Holocaust where over 1.1 million men, women and children lost their lives. We deliberately allow a full day for this moving  excursion to give everyone the time they need and our day includes a 3.5 hour tour with a local English-speaking guide. Please note:  Auschwitz can be a difficult place to visit for some people due to the events which took place there during WWII. It is not suitable for children.

Day 8: Our day begins with a visit to Wieliczka Salt Mines where we enjoy a fascinating guided tour of this extraordinary historic gem. Hailed as one of the longest of its kind in the world, this extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage site features dozens of breathtaking chapels, underground lakes and intricate salt-carved statues including the stunning Chapel of St Kinga. After our visit we make our way back to Krakow to further enjoy this wonderful city and its remarkable landmarks.
NB: The Salt Mines tour is not suitable for anyone with mobility issues. There are a high number of steps throughout the tour. Lift access may be possible, but this cannot be guaranteed at time of booking.

Day 9: Today we travel to Prague with a lunchtime stop en-route in the city of Brno, the country’s second-largest city. Brno’s compact old town features ornate architecture with art nouveau, empire and neoclassical examples. Highlights include the lovely Lužánky Park, featuring the ornate Renaissance Revival pavilion built by famous Viennese architect Ludwig Förster in 1786, and the legendary Brno Dragon statue entwined with local folklore. Later today we arrive at Art Nouveau Palace Hotel Prague, in the heart of the city for our three-night stay.

Day 10: For our first morning in Prague, we enjoy a three-hour guided walking tour to get our bearings and hear more about the history and culture of the capital of Czechia. Known as the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’ we discover the most iconic sights, beautiful architecture and enchanting treasures of one of Europe’s most magnificent cities. Our stay today is on a bed and breakfast basis, leaving you free to experience one of the city’s amazing restaurants this evening.

Day 11: We have a whole day explore Prague at leisure. Head for the beautiful Old Town Square and the famous Prague Astronomical Clock, the winding alleys of the Jewish Quarter or relax in one of the many cosy cafés.  This centuries-old city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with more than 200 gardens scattered across the city is very walkable. This evening, we will see the beauty of Prague by night on our scenic three-hour dinner cruise on the Vltava River. Passing the most wonderful sights of Charles Bridge, Rudolfinum and Prague Castle, take in the panoramic views and twinkling lights of this delightfully illuminated city. A buffet dinner, welcome drink, printed guide and live music is included. 

Day 12: Today we begin our journey home and travel to our overnight hotel near to Cologne.

Day 13: After breakfast, we continue our journey home.

NB: Full balance payment for this tour is due 100 days in advance of travel.

Prague and river

Image of attraction

Accommodation

Your Hotel

 Mercure Hotel Dusseldorf Neuss (1 night)

 Occidental Dresden Newa – (3 nights)

This 4-star hotel in the heart of the city is the perfect retreat after a day of exploration. All rooms are en-suite with TV, tea & coffee making facilities, air conditioning, hairdryer, minibar, safe and free WiFi. Leisure facilities include a fitness centre and sauna. There is a lift at the hotel. 

 Wyspianski Hotel Krakow (4 nights)

Perfectly located a 5-minute walk from Krakow’s beautiful Main Market Square this 3-star hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms and great service.  All rooms are en-suite with TV, tea & coffee making facilities, hairdryer and free WiFi. Leisure facilities include a fitness centre. There is a lift at the hotel.

Art Nouveau Palace Hotel – Prague (3 nights)

Enjoy luxury accommodation, refined art deco design and exceptional dining in the heart of the city. All rooms are en-suite with TV, tea & coffee making facilities, air conditioning, hairdryer, minibar, safe and free WiFi. There is a lift at the hotel. 

Hotel Koeln-Bruehl (1 night)