The over-the-top homes. The complicated relationships. The relentless quest for power. Ruling Austria—and later the Austro-Hungarian Empire—for nearly 650 years, the Habsburgs formed one of history’s greatest, yet often overlooked, European dynasties. This fascinating tour of Central Europe traces the family’s steps—and missteps—as you enjoy the imperial sights of Prague, Budapest, and Vienna with additional overnights in melodious Salzburg and lively Munich. Ornate castles and cathedrals, stunning palaces and parks, and gorgeous gardens and grounds provide a glimpse into the intriguing lives and lavish lifestyles of one of history’s most powerful and controversial families. In-depth sightseeing and a cruise along the legendary Danube offer varied vantage points to witness the magnificent marks this royal family left on Central Europe.PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Budapest so you can plan your day your way.
Special Features Included in this Tour: • Orientation tour of Munich plus visit to the [LF] Hofbräuhaus• Guided sightseeing of Prague features the Astronomical Clock and Hradćany Castle grounds• Orientation walk in Bratislava • Guided sightseeing tours in Budapest• Globus Choice excursions in Budapest − included in your tour with your choice of a visit to the Unicum factory and a taste of the traditional liqueur or a visit to a traditional thermal spa• Guided sightseeing drive in Vienna includes a visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral • [LF] Scenic Danube River with complimentary coffee and cake• Guided walking tour of Salzburg• Dinner at St. Peter Stiftskeller restaurant in Salzburg
Notes: We encourage all guests to prebook their preferred included Globus Choice excursions to ensure your selection is available. If your preference is not selected 35 days prior to departure, we will select a Choice excursion on your behalf based on availability.
Welcome to Munich! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel Dinner
Day 2 MUNICH–PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
The Heart of a City This morning, get acquainted with Munich during an orientation tour. See the Olympic Stadium, Maximillianstrasse and the Opera. Stop to take photos of the Nymphenburg Palace and enjoy some free time to stroll around Marienplatz. Depart Munich and enter the Czech Republic to reach Prague. Free time this evening. (B,D)
255 mi / 410 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION Experience the geographical and cultural heart of Munich at its Marienplatz, the town square since 1158. Stroll through the home of historic buildings, including the Old and New Town Halls in the picturesque heart and soul of the city BreakfastDinner
Day 3 PRAGUE
The Golden City Join your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour to discover this exquisite city. Visit the Hradčany Castle grounds and admire the views of the Castle’s walls and the St. Vitus Cathedral. Continue to the Old Town to see the Jewish Ghetto and the famous Astronomical Clock. An afternoon and evening at leisure to explore more. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEM The capital city of the Czech Republic which spans the Vltava River is often called the “City of a Hundred Spires,” or “The Golden City.” See the beautiful Old Town Square, with vibrant Baroque buildings, Gothic churches, and the medieval Astronomical Clock, delighting passers-by each hour. Stroll around the exquisite grounds at Hradčany Castle, considered to be the world’s largest ancient castle complex Breakfast
Day 4 PRAGUE–BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA–BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Serenity in Slovakia Today, cross the border into Slovakia and reach Bratislava, the elegant capital city, which practically borders Austria and Hungary. Enjoy an orientation walk and some free time for lunch; why not try some local specialties like Bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings and sheep cheese). Later, arrive in Budapest. (B,D)
348 mi / 560 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CITY SIGHTS Situated on the Danube River with the Little Carpathian Mountains as its backdrop, Bratislava is a real gem, a capital city with a local vibe. Whilst hearing about the historic area, look out for “Cumil” one the city’s most photographed inhabitants- the bronze statue of a man climbing out of a manhole BreakfastDinner
Day 5 BUDAPEST
Spend your day your way in Budapest Follow your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour featuring the Matthias Coronation Church and a panoramic view from Fishermen’s Bastion. Explore more of Budapest with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions.
Free time this evening. (B) Breakfast
Day 6 BUDAPEST–VIENNA, AUSTRIA
The City of Music Cross the border into Austria to reach Vienna, the capital city. After some free time for lunch, join your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour featuring a drive along the elegant Ringstrasse. Stop to take photos of the Hofburg Palace and Heldenplatz, and visit the incredible St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Free time this evening to try some local specialties for dinner. (B)
174 mi / 280 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE Visit St. Stephen's Cathedral, the magnificent mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vienna. A sight to behold, the cathedral features the massive Romanesque “Giant's Door” – adorned with dragons, birds, lions, monks, and demons Breakfast
Day 7 VIENNA
City of Dreams Enjoy a day at leisure in Vienna, absorb more art and culture in one of the many museums, browse the stores, or experience the Viennese coffee-house culture with a delicious pastry at one of the city’s elegant cafés. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION Fall in love with the Austrian city that has played a key role throughout history. It is easy to see how musical geniuses such as Mozart and Strauss were inspired by this captivating city Breakfast
Day 8 VIENNA–SALZBURG
Austrian Accents A real treat this morning, [LF] take a scenic Danube River cruise. Sit back and relax as you enjoy Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake) and fabulous views. After disembarking, arrive in Salzburg and meet your Local Guide for a walking tour through the historic center to see the Mirabell Gardens, the Great Festival Hall, St, Peter's Monastery, Residenz Square and Mozart's birthplace. Then, enjoy dinner at St. Peter Stiftskeller restaurant. (B,D)
205 mi / 330 km
LOCAL FAVORITE
EPIC RIDE Sit back and relax for a leisurely cruise along one of the most scenic sections of the Danube River. Whilst watching the world pass by, indulge in another Austrian tradition- a cup of Kaffee and a delicious piece of Kuchen. Wunderbar! BreakfastDinner
Day 9 SALZBURG–MUNICH, GERMANY
Mozart’s Birthplace & Mugs of Beer Enjoy a relaxing morning in Salzburg, including free time for lunch, then travel to Munich. This evening, join your travel companions for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant before visiting the [LF] Hofbräuhaus. (B,D)
109 mi / 175 km
LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES If steins and suds are on your mind, then Munich is the place to sip and socialize at the legendary Hofbräuhaus. Raise a glass to your fantastic European vacation and the new and wonderful friends you’ve made along the way. Prost! BreakfastDinner
Day 10 MUNICH
Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
Accommodations
Munich
Prague
Budapest
Vienna
Salzburg
Hilton Munich City Superior First-Class
Hotel as shown or similar
Rosenheimer Strasse 15 Muenchen Germany
Conveniently located in Munich's entertainment district, this 480-room upscale property provides a relaxing atmosphere alongside an exciting array of culinary delights and ambience in its lobby and signature bar. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout, there is a 24-hour fitness room and its direct access to a metro station ensures fast easy connections to the city center and all major sites.
Grandium Prague Superior First-Class
Hotel as shown or similar
Politickych Veznu 12/913 Prague Czech Republic
A contemporary nature themed hotel housed in an elegant neoclassical building with198 guestrooms, a small fitness room and Free Wi-Fi internet access throughout the property. The unique Noodle restaurant & Café Bar offers a great choice of noodle orientated cuisine from all over the world along with local specialties, desserts, drinks and cocktails.
Hotel M Gallery Nemzeti Superior First-Class
Hotel as shown or similar
Jozsef Krt 4 Budapest Hungary
This historic upscale hotel housed in an ornate 19th-century building has ties to the first Hungarian National Theater, echoing the artistic spirit of Budapest. Set in the heart of the city, on the Pest side of Budapest at Blaha Lujza square, a convenient location well serviced by public transportation with many dining options in the vicinity. Popular shopping areas, cultural attractions and landmarks such as the New York Cafe, Madach Musical Theater and National Museum can be easily reached. All of the 80 stylish, contemporary designed air-conditioned rooms are equipped with flat-screen TV, multimedia box, coffee/tea making facilities and luxury bathroom amenities. Free high-speed 5G Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. There is a lobby bar that serves coffee, drinks and light bites as well as a cafe that serves traditional Hungarian fare for lunch and dinner.
Maxx By Steigenberger First-Class
Hotel as shown or similar
Margaretengurtel 142 Vienna Austria
MAXX Hotel Vienna is conveniently and centrally located between Westbahnhof Train Station and the city center. All rooms feature a modern design with contemporary amenities.
Hotel NH Salzburg City First-Class
Hotel as shown or similar
Franz-Josef-Strasse 26 Salzburg Austria
Located in the heart of the city, near the Mirabell Gardens, this 140-room contemporary property has Free Wi-Fi internet access throughout, a restaurant serving a mix of Austrian and International dishes, a cocktail bar and a lovely outdoor terrace where drinks and snacks can be enjoyed in the summer.