Imperial Cities of Europe

Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Prague, Czech Republic.

Welcome to the capital city of Prague. Upon arrival, you will be met by a representative of Mayflower Cruises and Tours and transferred to the hotel. The remainder of the day is free to get acquainted with your new surroundings. This evening, join your Tour Manager and fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. Meal: D

The best way to explore this historic city is on foot. During a walking tour, discover its charms and the beautiful architecture from the Gothic and Baroque eras as well as the Middle Ages. Prague city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to Old Town Square and the astronomical clock. See this impressive area, and Charles Bridge, adorned with statues that each tell a story of the city’s colorful past. As a special treat, visit Klementinum, one of the world’s most beautiful libraries. After the tour, continue exploring this ‘City of a Hundred Spires’ on your own, shop in the multitude of stores lining the quaint alleyways, or join the optional brewery tour. Visit one of the many restaurants and enjoy local cuisine during your dinner at leisure. Meal: B

After breakfast, depart by coach for a drive outside of Prague to Kutna Hora, another UNESCO World Heritage site. As you stroll through the historic center with the local guide, learn about the origins of the town, dating back to the 13th century, with the discovery of silver and mining. See St. Barbara’s Church before continuing by coach to nearby Sedlec to visit the area’s most popular attraction…Sedlec Ossuary. While it looks like a small gothic church on the exterior, the interior is truly unique. Referred to as the ‘Bone Church’, it contains the skeletal remains of more than 40,000 people. After hearing the story of how this masterpiece was created and seeing the artwork for yourself, from an immense chandelier to a coat of arms, all made of human bones, the visit is sure to be unforgettable. Return to Prague late afternoon for the remainder of the day at leisure. Meal: B

Departing Prague, travel to Brno, the country’s 2nd largest city. A local guide takes you on a stroll through the city, telling of its history and pointing out the varied architectural sites and art scenes. Enjoy some free time for lunch on your own before continuing to Lednice Castle in South Moravia. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage list, the Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape brings together natural and cultural elements, elaborate architectural styles, picturesque gardens and an expansive park to create an exceptionally impressive site. Visit the castle and see what life was like for its residents and visitors. Continue to Vienna where dinner is included at the hotel this evening. Meals: B, D

This morning, embark on a guided excursion discovering the highlights of this capital city. A panoramic drive around the Ringstrasse showcases some of the architectural highlights as your guide explains the regal history. During a guided walking tour, see St. Stephens Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace, both dominating the city center - a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The remainder of the day is left free of planned activities for you to pursue independent interests. This evening, an optional classical music concert is offered featuring the music of Mozart and Strauss. Meal: B & ;

Enroute to Budapest visit Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia. During the guided walking tour, see the historic National Theater and the Main Square with stunning architecture and a history dating back to the Middle Ages. The Old Town Hall, Roland Fountain and Primate’s Palace all grace the area. During the free time, meander through the heart of the city, along cobblestone lanes, filled with shops and cafés. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before boarding the coach for the onward journey to Budapest. Meal: B

A guided orientation tour showcases the highlights of this historic capital city, straddling both sides of the Danube River. On the Pest side, see the architecturally beautiful Hungarian Parliament Building and Heroes’ Square. Drive along Andrassy Avenue – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to historic buildings and the Opera House. Cross the Danube via one of the seven bridges connecting Buda and Pest to discover the treasures on the Buda side. A brief funicular ride brings you to the Castle District. Visit Matthias Church, the former coronation church of the Kings of Hungary, dominating the main square. Walk to the Fisherman’s Bastion, a stunningly beautiful architectural marvel. Having seen it from Pest, discover it up close and take amazing photos of the city and the Danube from its vantage point. Return to Pest and the hotel for the remainder of the day at leisure. Meal: B & ;

Travel outside the city center to visit the Royal Palace of Gödöllö – one of Empress Sisi and Franz Joseph’s favorite royal residences. During the guided tour, see the beautiful architecture, gardens and learn about its rich history. Upon entering the palace, the history unfolds as you visit the beautifully restored rooms, from its first century through its uses post World War II. Return to Budapest for the final afternoon at leisure before the farewell dinner. Meals: B, D & ;

This morning, it’s time to transfer to the airport for your flight home. Having traveled through four countries and explored their capital cities, the memories of your journey will last a lifetime. Meal: B