Imperial Cities & Austria Alps Group Tour

Arrive in Belgrade, Serbia’s dynamic capital. Our driver/guide will greet you at Nikola Tesla Airport and transfer you to your hotel. Take a scenic drive through New Belgrade, known for its Socialist-era architecture and modern business centres. In the evening, we recommend taking a stroll through Skadarlija, Belgrade’s bohemian quarter, and enjoying a traditional meal at a local "kafana".

 

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Explore Belgrade on a panoramic tour taking in bold Brutalist architecture, the modern Belgrade Waterfront, and the skyline of New Belgrade. Visit the Temple of Saint Sava, one of the world’s largest Orthodox churches, and learn about Serbia’s complex history at the Museum of Yugoslavia. Stroll down Knez Mihailova Street to Republic Square and enjoy traditional coffee and rakija at the city’s oldest tavern, “?”. End your tour at Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park, where the Sava and Danube rivers meet. The evening is free to sample Belgrade’s vibrant culinary scene. (B)

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Travel north through the Vojvodina region, stopping in Novi Sad – Serbia’s cultural capital and home to Petrovaradin Fortress, known as the “Gibraltar on the Danube.” Stroll through its charming centre and vibrant pedestrian zone before continuing to the Zvonko Bogdan Winery, where you’ll enjoy a tasting of regional wines in a stunning secessionist-style setting. Cross the border into Hungary and arrive in Budapest, where you’ll check in and enjoy an evening at leisure, soaking in the city's grand architecture, famous thermal baths, and buzzing atmosphere. (B, Wine tasting)

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Explore Budapest on a guided walking and driving tour through Hungary’s stylish capital. Cross the iconic Chain Bridge, stroll the Castle District, and admire views of the Parliament and Elisabeth Bridge. Visit Heroes’ Square and the magnificent Hungarian Synagogue, Europe’s largest. Soak up the city’s vibrant energy and elegant architecture. Enjoy free time for lunch or exploring at your own pace. In the evening, opt for a Danube River cruise to see Budapest’s illuminated landmarks, with the choice to upgrade to a dinner cruise featuring live music and local cuisine. (B)

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After checking out, travel from Budapest to Vienna, Austria’s majestic capital. Start your day with a visit to Schönbrunn Palace, the opulent former summer residence of the Habsburgs. Explore its lavishly decorated rooms and beautifully landscaped gardens. At Café Residenz, watch skilled bakers craft traditional Viennese apple strudel, then enjoy a warm slice fresh from the oven. After checking into your hotel, take some time to relax or explore the city at leisure. In the evening, opt for a performance at the Vienna State Opera or Burgtheater for a refined cultural experience in the heart of imperial Vienna. (B, Strudel tasting)

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Begin your day with a panoramic drive through Vienna, passing the grand Parliament, Burgtheater, and Danube riverbanks. Continue on foot from the Maria Theresia Memorial through the courtyards of the Hofburg Palace to the iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, soaking up the legacy of the Habsburg dynasty. After exploring Vienna’s imperial heart, journey onwards to Prague. Watch the scenery shift as you cross into the Czech Republic, swapping Vienna’s imperial elegance for Prague’s medieval charm. On arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening, ready to explore another of Central Europe’s captivating capital cities. (B)

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Spend today with your guide discovering Prague, known as the “Golden City” for its stunning blend of history and culture. Begin at Hradčany Hill, home to Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world. Explore the castle complex, including Saint Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace, while your guide shares the rich history of this majestic site. Descend to cross the Charles Bridge, a medieval masterpiece, and continue through charming streets to Old Town Square. Here, marvel at the iconic Astronomical Clock. Afterward, indulge in authentic Czech cuisine, enjoying specialities like pork knuckle, goulash, and sweet blueberry dumplings. (B,L)

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Today, explore the charming town of Karlovy Vary, founded by Charles IV in the 14th century. Known for its stunning architecture and natural hot springs, it’s a perfect destination for relaxation. Wander through the elegant colonnades and indulge in the therapeutic waters. Continue to Loket, a picturesque village on the Ohře River, with Loket Castle dominating the landscape. This historic castle, once central to Charles IV’s life, offers breathtaking views and a peek into medieval history. Experience Czech brewing traditions with a visit to a 14th-century brewery, tasting distinct craft beers. Return to Prague. (B, Beer tasting)

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After checking out from Prague, head to Český Krumlov, a UNESCO-listed town in South Bohemia. Dominated by its medieval castle, a stunning fusion of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, it also boasts a rare 17th-century Baroque theatre. Explore the narrow, cobbled streets, filled with Renaissance and Baroque architecture, and admire the picturesque Vltava River. Continue to Austria’s Salzkammergut region, renowned for its beautiful lakes and lush landscapes. Upon arrival, relax and enjoy the serenity of the Austrian countryside, appreciating the contrast between Czech historical charm and Austria's natural beauty. (B)

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Explore Austria’s stunning Salzkammergut region, known for its shimmering lakes and alpine peaks. Start in Hallstatt, widely believed to have inspired Disney's Frozen, with its pastel houses set against the serene lake and towering mountains. Wander the picturesque streets and Market Square, soaking in its fairy-tale beauty. Ascend to a breathtaking viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Alps and lake below. Continue to St. Wolfgang, a charming village by Lake Wolfgang, perfect for exploration. End the day with an optional electric boat ride across the tranquil lake, capturing the region’s mesmerising beauty. (B)

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After checking out from your countryside accommodation, head to Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace, and soak in its baroque beauty. Stroll through the charming old town and along the Salzach River, enjoying the sweet tradition of Mozartkugeln. Next, visit Lake Bled, an enchanting jewel nestled in the Slovenian Alps. The island in the middle, with its church and dramatic backdrop, creates a fairy-tale setting. Continue to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s vibrant capital, and enjoy an evening wander through the lively streets, where eco-friendly initiatives meet lively cafés and picturesque spots. (B)

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Begin your day in Ljubljana, a city renowned for its greenery, vibrant architecture, and relaxed charm. Nestled between the Julian Alps and the Adriatic Sea, it's one of Europe’s greenest capitals. As you stroll along the Ljubljanica River, you’ll see iconic landmarks such as the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, Town Hall, and the Triple Bridge. Next, take a short trip to the awe-inspiring Postojna Cave, where you'll explore a vast underground world of stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal-clear pools. In the afternoon, head to the Goriška Hills for a wine tasting experience. This region, shared with Italy, is famous for its vineyards. Visit the medieval village of Šmartno and sample wines that capture the essence of the region’s warmth and hospitality. (B, Wine tasting)

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Today transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)