Journey through Central Europe & Romania

Journey through Central Europe & Romania

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24 Days From

$5295

$5136

Journey through Central Europe & Romania

24 Days Starting in Vienna and ending in Bucharest

Visiting: Vienna, Cesky Krumlov, Prague, Wroclaw, Krakow, Tatra Mountains, Budapest, Eger, Maramures, Sighisoara, Viscri, Brasov, Bucharest

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

AMSCC

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 15

Physical rating:

Low, Low

Age range:

15-99 years

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Interests:

Cultural, History

From: $5295 $5136 Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$159

NB: Prices correct on 14-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

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Tour Overview

Experience the best of this old-world region on a journey through enchanting Central Europe and Romania. Travel to Austria and be immersed in the country's superb musical heritage and step back in time in the castles of the Czech Republic. Experience Polish traditions while exploring the romantic Old Town of Krakow and get active in Slovakia's Tatra Mountains. Then Explore Hungary and Romania, from the beautiful Baroque churches of Budapest to the haunted castles of Transylvania. Learn about the failed Turkish invasion of Eger and take a wine cellar tour in the Valley of the Beautiful Women. Become acquainted with traditional Romanian culture and customs in Maramures. Tour the medieval churches of Brasov, dine with a local family on an overnight homestay in Viscri and visit Bucharest's 12-storey Palace of Parliament. This epic journey through Central Europe and Romania gives a great insight in to that magical part of the world.

Highlights

  • Soak up the royal history of Krakow's Wawel Castle and step back in time with a stroll through the city's medieval main square

  • Immerse yourself in the history, architecture and bohemian vibes of the Czech Republic. Step right into a fairytale in the World Heritage-listed town of Cesky Krumlov before soaking up the smooth sounds of jazz at a low-lit bar in Prague

  • So much of what is great about Europe can be found in Vienna. Revel in the city's rich offerings of art, history and music and stroll along the eclectic Ringstrasse

  • Enjoy a scenic walk along the banks of the River Danube in Budapest. Threaded with bridges and hemmed in by castles and historic city buildings, Europe’s second longest river is also one of its most beautiful

  • Hike in the picturesque Tatra Mountains and traverse the steep slopes via funicular, gondola and electric steam train

  • Sample the famous Hungarian 'bulls blood' in Eger, the wine that supposedly gave the Hungarian army supernatural strength during their battle against the Ottoman Empire

  • Experience peasant life on a full-day tour through the countryside of Maramures, Romania's most traditional and colourful region. Don't be surprised if you see horse-drawn carts along the road

  • Learn spooky stories while travelling through beautiful Transylvania, famous for its medieval fortified churches and as the birthplace of the inspiration for the world's most famous vampire, Dracula

  • A home-stay with a local family in the Saxon/Roma town of Viscri will expose you to Romanian hospitality and some finger-licking home-cooked grub

  • See the classic Polish cities of Wroclaw and Krakow and feel the emotional wallop of a sobering visit to nearby Auschwitz.

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Itinerary

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Day 1: Vienna

Location: Vienna

Accommodation: Hotel

Guten Tag! Welcome to Vienna, Austria. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, why not walk around to get your bearings or, better yet, take a spin on the famous Prater Ferris Wheel nearby for a bird’s eye view. Your base for the next couple of nights is Magdas Hotel – a social enterprise dedicated to supporting refugees in a united and compassionate workplace in Vienna. Magdas employs staff from across the world, so expect to hear many accents from a range of backgrounds. The hotel itself is an eclectic mix of styles, décor and furniture, and used to house a homeless shelter before being renovated for its current purpose. Be sure to check out your surroundings and have a chat to some of the staff! After your important meeting, why not use tonight to get you know your travel pals over some dinner.

Day 2: Vienna

Location: Vienna

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Join your leader for a walk through the city's compact centre this morning. Stop at the gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral, wander past the neo-classical Graben and have a look at the Hofburg Palace. Continue along the Ringstrasse and then finish your orientation walk of the city at the State Opera House – one of the world's most important opera houses and the heart of classical Viennese culture. Then you’re in for a real treat! Stop for kaffe and kuchen (coffee and cake) at Vollpension, a local cafe which empowers older members of the community by providing them with employment and purpose, while bridging the gap between the staff and the younger patrons who visit the cafe. Have a chat with the friendly staff while enjoying your sweet treat in this warm and welcoming environment. This afternoon is then free for you to keep on checking out the sights of the city. Art lovers have a so much choice when it comes to museums, such as the Albertina, located in the Museum Quarter. Otherwise, you might like to head out to Schoenbrunn for a guided audio tour of the grand summer palace, designed by Empress Maria Theresa.

Included Activities:
-Vienna - Kaffee and Kuchen Experience

Optional Activities:
-Vienna - Belvedere Gallery (Lower Gallery)
-Vienna - Albertina Museum
-Vienna - Sisi Museum
-Vienna - Spanish Riding School Practice
-Vienna - St Stephen's Tower
-Vienna - Schoenbrunn Palace
-Vienna - Hofburg Palace & Sisi Museum
-Vienna - Leopold Museum
-Vienna - Prater Ferris Wheel
-Vienna - Vienna Boys Choir Concert
-Vienna - Belvedere Gallery (Upper & Lower Gallery Combined Ticket)
-Vienna - Belvedere Gallery (Upper Gallery)
-Vienna - Food, Coffee & Market Tour Urban Adventure
-Vienna Opera Guided Tour

Day 3: Cesky Krumlov

Location: Cesky Krumlov

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Depart Vienna by minivan this morning and cross the border into the Czech Republic. Your next stop is the southern Bohemian town of Cesky Krumlov. This picturesque medieval town dates back to the 13th century and looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. Cesky Krumlov means 'crooked meadow', because it sits on a tight bend of the Vltava River. When you arrive, take a guided tour of the town with a local guide, starting in the main square. Wander through Old Town, see the city's oldest pharmacy then arrive at the Cesky Krumlov Castle. See the royal gardens from above and enjoy the panoramic views of the town below.

Included Activities:
-Cesky Krumlov - guided tour

Day 4: Cesky Krumlov

Location: Cesky Krumlov

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today is a free for you to enjoy as you please. Perhaps take an optional guided castle tour, which lets you in on the mysteries that lie behind every corner of this stronghold dating back to 1253. For those who want a bit more culture, you could visit the Egon Schiele Art Centrum and browse the gallery that's dedicated to the Austrian painter. If you’re after something more active, jump into a canoe and check out the town from a different perspective – on the Vltava River.

Optional Activities:
-Cesky Krumlov - Brewery Tour
-Cesky Krumlov - Egon Schiele Art Centrum
-Cesky Krumlov - Rafting or Canoe Trip (per person)
-Cesky Krumlov - Guided Castle Tour

Day 5: Prague

Location: Prague

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Leave Cesky Krumlov in your dust and travel by bus to Prague. When you arrive, head out on an orientation walk with your leader so you can get your bearings of the local neighbourhood. For your free afternoon and evening, why not discover another great side of Prague – its music! The city has one of the longest-standing and respected jazz scenes in Europe, with jazz clubs playing into the early hours of the morning. Otherwise, have a wander along Charles Bridge or Old Town Square for some magical photo opportunities.

Day 6: Prague

Location: Prague

Accommodation: Hotel

Today is free to explore Prague. The city offers many possibilities, so perhaps take a walk around the Jewish Quarter and pay your respects at the Gothic-inspired Old Jewish Cemetery. This is Europe's oldest surviving Jewish cemetery, with 12,000 tombstones and 100,000 graves. There is also the Museum of Communism, which details the struggles of many European countries and their political rule in the 19th and 20th centuries. Tonight, be sure to check back in with your group and perhaps organise some dinner and drinks in one of the city’s renowned beer halls – it’s a perfect way to Czech off another day in Prague.

Optional Activities:
-Prague - Jewish Quarter
-Prague - Kafka Museum
-Prague - Mucha Museum
-Prague - Museum of Communism
-Prague - Castle Visit
-Prague - Town Hall Clock Tower
-Prague - Bike Tour
-Prague - The Dancing House - Free
-Prague - John Lennon Wall - Free
-Prague - Food by Foot Urban Adventure
-Kutna Hora - Church of St Barbara
-Kutna Hora - Sedlec Ossuary & Bone Church
-Prague - Beer and Czech Tapas Tour Urban Adventure
-Prague - Prague Discovery Urban Adventure
-Kutna Hora - Day Trip (by public transport)
-Prague - Prague Parks and Views Urban Adventure

Day 7: Wroclaw

Location: Wroclaw

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, take local trains and private bus to cross the border into Poland and travel to Wroclaw. Wroclaw is the cultural centre of southwest Poland, sitting on the banks of River Oder for over 1000 years and shaped by influences of Czech, German and Polish rule. On the way, stop in Swidnica, a town known for its intriguing Lutheran Church of Peace. Arrive in Wroclaw in the early afternoon and settle into your hotel, then follow your leader on an orientation walk around this city that makes it feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. The rest of the time today and tomorrow is free for your own discoveries.

Included Activities:
-Wroclaw - Orientation walk
-Swidnica - Church of Peace visit

Day 8: Wroclaw

Location: Wroclaw

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Spend another day exploring Wroclaw however you’d like! You may consider checking out Ostrów Tumski (Cathedral Island), the Old Town Square and the Four Denominations District, where the city’s incredible architecture and history is on full display. Don’t miss out on appreciating Wroclaw from River Oder or experiencing the vibrant cultural scene – your leader will be on hand to give recommendations on local hotspots.

Day 9: Krakow

Location: Krakow

Accommodation: Pension

Meals Included: breaksfast

Hop back on a local train to Krakow. Possibly the best known of all Poland's cities, Krakow was the residence of Polish kings from the 11th to the 17th centuries, and its Old Town is a World Heritage-listed site. Take part in a leader-led orientation walk with your group, and once you know your whereabouts, you could go and discover one of the biggest – and arguably most beautiful – medieval squares in Central Europe. Maybe discover Wawel Royal Castle, which sits atop a hill next to the Vistula River. Check out the 13th-century town square of Rynek Glowny and get a glimpse inside St Mary's Basilica which features an extraordinary wood-carved Gothic altarpiece. There's also the lovely neo-Gothic St Francis' Basilica, which has some of Poland's best Art Nouveau. In Krakow, you will also find the second oldest university in Central Europe. Jagiellonian University counts Copernicus and Pope John Paul II among its alumni. Tonight is again all yours to do as you please – a good idea is to make your way to the Jewish Quarter for its laidback vibes and good food.

Optional Activities:
-Krakow - Rynek Underground Museum
-Krakow - Cloth Hall 'Sukiennice' - Free
-Krakow - Schindler's Factory Museum Tour
-Krakow - Galicia Jewish Museum
-Krakow - History Museum
-Krakow - St Mary's Basilica
-Krakow - Walking Tour
-Krakow - Wawel Royal Castle
-Wieliczka - Salt Mines Tour

Day 10: Krakow

Location: Krakow

Accommodation: Pension

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today, take the shared transport to Oswiecim and embark on a sobering tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum. Local guide will take you through the museum and its sites on included join-in tour. Back in Krakow in the afternoon, spend some more time exploring in your own time. Or, if you can tear yourself away from Krakow, head out to the Wieliczka Salt Mines – a network of tunnels and chambers some 135 metres below the ground. This is a salt mine that was in operation for over 700 years and is a World Heritage-listed site. At night, pull up a pew and indulge in a plate of pierogi and a few beers to say cheers to another day.

Included Activities:
-Oswiecim - Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum join in guided tour

Day 11: Tatra Mountains

Location: Tatra Mountains

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Say farewell to Krakow today and travel by local bus through southern Poland to Slovakia. The trip may be long and a little slow, but the scenery of rolling hills and tiny villages will keep your eyes occupied. Tatranska Lomnica is your destination in Slovakia. It's a small alpine resort at the base of the Vysoke Tatry (High Tatra) Mountains. The Tatras – the highest range of the Carpathians – stretch for about 60 kilometres across the Polish-Slovakian border and are a hiker’s dream. The evening is free for you to enjoy as you please, and perhaps the best way to do it is to sit back, relax and soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful mountainous region.

Day 12: Tatra Mountains

Location: Tatra Mountains

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, head out on an included hike in the High Tatra Mountains. The most known route is about 6 km in length and it is normally completed in 3 hours, including stops on the way. The route includes gradual hill ascents and descents and walking on gravel and uneven rocky surfaces with some slippery sections. The pace and distance will be decided on the day, depending on weather and group abilities – parts of it will involve travelling by funicular, gondola and electric train. During the walk, you may notice that some parts of the forest have been destroyed. This was the result of a tornado-like storm in 2004 that decimated approximately 10,000 hectares of timberland. In the afternoon, head back to the accommodation and enjoy the remainder of the day in this beautiful location.

Included Activities:
-Tatranska Lomnica - Tatra Mountains Hike (not between Nov and Mar)
-Tatra Mountains - Hrebienok Funicular
-Tatra Mountains - Tatranska Lomnica Gondola

Optional Activities:
-Tatranska Lomnica - Summer Luge
-Tatranska Lomnica - Bike Rental
-Tatranska Lomnica - Spa treatment in Grand Hotel Praha (from)
-Tatranska Lomnica - Ski Museum

Day 13: Budapest

Location: Budapest

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

You have an early start today for the long journey to Budapest. As there won't be too much free time to explore on arrival, perhaps check in to the accommodation and then go for a brief walk around the neighbourhood to get your bearings. The grand architecture and boulevards, café culture and interesting laneways make this one of the truly great cities of Europe. Take the evening as an opportunity to relax after a long day of travelling. Visiting one of Budapest's many restaurants or eclectic ‘ruin’ bars in the Jewish Quarter is a sure-fire way to have a good night out with your crew.

Day 14: Budapest

Location: Budapest

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today you have a full free day to explore Budapest. Known as 'The Pearl of the Danube', Budapest is a great city to enjoy from the water. Perhaps take a boat trip along the river or catch a funicular up to Buda Castle for spectacular views of the Parliament Building and the Pest side of the city. You could head to Statue Park to see the communist monuments that were removed from the city after the fall of the Iron Curtain. One unmissable activity is to soak in Budapest's hot thermal baths. The pools vary in temperature, and some even feature whirlpools or seats where you can enjoy a game of chess. You might like to take part in one of our Urban Adventure day tours. See urbanadventures.com for more information.

Optional Activities:
-Budapest - Transport and Entry to Statue Park
-Budapest - Pub Crawl (starting from)
-Budapest - Best Beers of Budapest Urban Adventures
-Budapest - Parliament Tour
-Budapest - Bites & Sights Food Tour Urban Adventure
-Budapest - Central Market - Free
-Budapest - Szechenyi Thermal Baths (starting from)
-Budapest - Buda Castle Explorer Urban Adventure
-Budapest - Hungarian National Museum
-Budapest - Bike Ride
-Budapest - Hungarian State Opera House Tour
-Budapest - House of Terror
-Budapest - Great Synagogue

Day 15: Budapest

Location: Budapest

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Enjoy a free day in the charming Budapest until your 6pm group meeting.

Day 16: Eger

Location: Eger

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, take a train east to Eger. This beautifully preserved Baroque town is surrounded by hills and is home to some of the most renowned vineyards in Eastern Europe. Visit the wine cellars of the seductively named Valley of the Beautiful Women to sample some of the town's famous 'Bull's Blood' red wine (which supposedly gave the Hungarian army supernatural strength during their battle against the Ottoman Empire). In your free time, maybe explore Eger's 13th-century castle, which was the scene of the historic siege that thwarted the Ottoman Empire's advancement into Western Europe. Here, you can explore the Gothic Palace, a gallery of fine Hungarian art, and tour underground passageways of archaeological finds. You may also like to check out the town's 19th-century cathedral, the northernmost medieval minaret in Europe for views of the city, or the Minorite church in Dobo Square.

Included Activities:
-Eger - Wine Sampling

Optional Activities:
-Eger - Castle
-Eger - Minaret
-Eger - Astronomy Museum, Camera Obscura, Panoramic terrace in the Lyceum building
-Eger - Town Under The Town

Day 17: Maramures

Location: Maramures

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

This morning, travel to the pleasant town of Debrecen. While here, you'll have time to explore Deri Square with its fountains, colourful buildings, museums and golden Great Church. Continue by train and private vehicle across the central plains into the Maramures region of Romania – this region may be modernising, but among the traditional wooden houses, churches, music and forests, you can still find parts of life unchanged since medieval times. When you arrive, settle into your room at the pension – your accommodation for the night is run by a local family. Sit down for a homecooked dinner with your group and get to know the locals, their stories and their lifestyle.

Day 18: Maramures

Location: Maramures

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Today you’ll discover more about the region of Maramures (mah-ra-moo-resh). Rich in tradition and folklore, the music, costumes, festivals and ancient superstitions of one of the last peasant cultures in Europe continue to thrive here. Maramures is particularly famed for its wooden churches, many of which are World Heritage-listed. Set out on a guided group tour to explore the region, visiting the unique Merry Cemetery in Sapanta, where the life stories of the deceased are displayed on colourful wooden crosses. There are poems, limericks and little pictures illustrating how the person died, all single-handedly carved over 40 years by Stan Ioan Patraş, until 1977 when his apprentice took up the work. You’ll also see other traditional villages including the village museum in Sighetu – an assembly of beautiful local wooden architecture.

Included Activities:
-Maramures - Day Tour with Local Guide
-Maramures - Sapanta Merry Cemetery
-Maramures - Barsana Monastery

Day 19: Sighisoara

Location: Sighisoara

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, get ready for a scenic drive to Sighisoara – while the name may conjure up images of haunted castles, gothic churches and vampires, this is only a small part of what makes Transylvania such an enchanting and exciting destination. Medieval Sighisoara is likely to seduce visitors more than any other place in Romania. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town was first settled by the Romans but flourished under the Saxons from the 12th century. Take a walk around the old town, which coils up a narrow hill surrounded on all sides by fortified walls and explore the 64-metre-high clock tower that dominates the citadel. The town is famed as the birthplace of Vlad Dracul III, better known as Vlad the Impaler, whose name inspired Bram Stoker’s iconic Count Dracula. Vlad III is revered as a folk hero by Romanians for driving off the invading Ottoman Turks, of which his impaled victims are said to have included as many as 100,000. Tonight, maybe sit down for a traditional Romanian dinner at Casa Dracula.

Optional Activities:
-Sighisoara - Church of the Dominican Monastery
-Sighisoara - Covered Stairway - Free
-Sighisoara - Church on the Hill
-Sighisoara - The Clock Tower

Day 20: Viscri

Location: Viscri

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

This morning, take a short drive to the village of Viscri – this small Transylvanian village was originally inhabited by Saxons from the Luxembourg area and the rural landscape is picture-perfect. This idyllic village of red tiled roofs is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, virtually unchanged for 900 years. You’ll visit the town's fortified church (thought to be the oldest in Transylvania) and learn about the Sock Project, which supports the local Roma community. Time permitting, you may even like to go for a horse cart ride through the area, over pastures and through wondrous woods of oak and hornbeam. In the evening, indulge in a home-cooked dinner prepared by a local family, sampling fresh produce, homemade wines and schnapps. Tonight, stay in rustic houses that the locals rent out to visitors.

Included Activities:
-Viscri - Local Home Cooked Dinner
-Viscri - Sock Project
-Viscri - Fortified Church

Optional Activities:
-Viscri - Prince Charles House
-Viscri - Blacksmith demonstration

Day 21: Brasov

Location: Brasov

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, you’ll visit the famed Bran Castle. Said to be the inspiration for the home of Bram Stoker's Dracula, the castle isn’t too spooky, but it is undeniably impressive. Perched on a high cliff top and surrounded by pine trees, you’ll explore the castle with your leader and group – this is the perfect photo op! After, travel to Brasov and enjoy free time to explore, checking out the ornate churches, townhouses and squares surrounded by gingerbread-roofed merchants' houses. For those looking for a bit of nightlife tonight, Brasov has plenty of funky bars and restaurants to enjoy once darkness falls.

Included Activities:
-Bran Castle - Tour

Day 22: Brasov

Location: Brasov

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today after breakfast, you will enjoy a full free day in Brasov. Also known by its German name of Kronstadt, the town is flanked by mountains and was once a major medieval trading centre. When you arrive, enjoy some free time to wander, take an optional activity or just find a good spot to eat and people-watch. The town's main attraction is the gothic Black Church (Biserica Neagra), which took its name from its blackened appearance after a fire in 1689. Maybe stroll along pedestrianised Strada Republicii, take a cable car up to Mt Tampa, or maybe explore the nearby Rasnov Fortress. The fortification is perched on a rocky hilltop above the town of Rasnov and was constructed by Teutonic Knights in the 13th century as a refuge for the common people from Tartar invaders.

Optional Activities:
-Brasov - Cable Car to Mt Tampa
-Rasnov - Fortress
-Brasov - Walking Tour with Local Guide
-Brasov - The Black Church

Day 23: Bucharest

Location: Bucharest

Meals Included: breaksfast

Head south to Bucharest on the train today – the city is increasingly known for its cosmopolitan vibe and energy. While not the most beautiful or stylish city, there are some wonderful art nouveau buildings, ancient churches and monasteries, lush parklands, lakes and elegant boulevards. Romania's capital also likes big things – it’s home to one of Europe's biggest squares, and its Palace of Parliament is the second-largest building in the world! You'll embark on a guided walking tour around town to help you get your bearings, and then you have loads of free time to choose your own adventure. Explore some of the sights further or maybe seek out some traditional home-cooked Romanian food with your fellow travellers.

Included Activities:
-Bucharest - Walking Tour with Local Guide

Optional Activities:
-Bucharest - Bike Tour
-Bucharest - Urban Adventures Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Tour
-Bucharest - Village Museum
-Bucharest - Palace of Parliament Tour
-Bucharest - Romanian Athenaeum
-Bucharest - Former Ceausescu Residence

Day 24: Bucharest

Location: Bucharest

Meals Included: breaksfast

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. For those who wish to stay longer in Bucharest please enquire about additional accommodation at the time of booking.

What's Included

  • Bucharest - Walking Tour with Local Guide

  • Cesky Krumlov - Cycling Trip (weather and season permitting)

  • Osowka - Underground City Visit and Guided Tour

  • Tatranska Lomnica - Tatra Mountains Hike (not between Nov and Mar)

  • Tatranska Lomnica - Smokovec Funicular

  • Eger - Wine Tasting

  • Tatranska Lomnica - Gondola

  • Maramures - Day Tour with Local Guide

  • Maramures - Sapanta Merry Cemetery

  • Maramures - Barsana Monastery

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What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Included Activities

  • Cesky Krumlov - Cycling Trip (weather and season permitting)
  • Osowka - Underground City Visit and Guided Tour
  • Tatranska Lomnica - Tatra Mountains Hike (not between Nov and Mar)
  • Tatranska Lomnica - Smokovec Funicular
  • Tatranska Lomnica - Gondola
  • Eger - Wine Tasting
  • Maramures - Day Tour with Local Guide
  • Maramures - Sapanta Merry Cemetery
  • Maramures - Barsana Monastery
  • Viscri - Fortified Church
  • Viscri - Sock Project
  • Viscri - Local Home Cooked Dinner
  • Bucharest - Walking Tour with Local Guide

Transport

  • TRANSPORT IN EUROPE
  • Half the fun of travel is the travelling itself, that's why we like to travel the local way – whether that means mingling with commuters on a local train, watching the scenery roll by from the window of a long distance bus, arriving on a high speed train in the city centre of your next destination, or navigating each city's public transport system. In Europe, you are guaranteed to travel by genuine local public transport wherever possible, which puts you right in the centre of the action.
  • LONG TRAVEL DAYS
  • As we cover lots of ground on this trip, expect some long travel days on local trains and buses. This is an opportunity to mix with the locals and enjoy the scenery out the window. Travel schedules are known to change with little notice. Not all transport may have air conditioning.

Accommodation

  • OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION
  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
  • TWIN SHARE BASIS
  • Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite and rare occasions when you share a room with passengers travelling on different Intrepid trips than your own.
  • CHECK-IN TIME
  • Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.
  • PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION
  • If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
  • FACILITIES
  • Your accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning. European hotels generally don't provide kettles or fridges.

Important Information

  • 1. A Single Supplement is bookable on this trip, excluding Day 3&4. Availability is limited due to small properties we use. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Check out our Q&As

  • Are all entrance fees included in the price?

    Yes, except optional activities

  • Are international flights included in this tour?

    No

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    No

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • Is this trip right for you

    Less time spent travelling; more time to explore each destination. The primary means of transportation on this trip is by train. Trains are a fast way to cross long distances, allowing you to avoid traffic jams and arrive right into the city centre. They are comfortable and all have toilets, however, can sometimes be quite busy. Please note that you'll have to carry your own luggage on and off the train, so make sure it doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find specifics under ‘Packing’ in the ‘Essential Trip Information’ section.

    Don’t let the heat keep you from exploring the world! Summer temperatures can be very high in many of the regions visited (over 40°C), which can make things uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat, and drink plenty of water.

    In some train stations and most of your accommodation there are no lifts or escalators. Please be aware that you will have to carry you own bags up and down stairs and on and off public transport. It is recommended you pack lightly. You can find some packing guidelines in the 'packing' section in the trip notes.

    Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together. In some cases, bathroom facilities will be shared rather than ensuite.

    This trip is designed to give you a fair amount of free time so you can explore each destination at your own pace. We will, however, take you on regular orientation walks, so you'll be on your feet quite a lot. While this may be tiring for some, it’s the best way to get your head around a place and to set yourself up for further discoveries.

    On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 15kg / 33lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly.

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    Yes if aged 15+ and accompanied by an adult

  • Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?

    No

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Monday

Mar 29, 2025 - Apr 21, 2025
$5295 $5136

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$159

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Apr 12, 2025 - May 05, 2025
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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$159

Saturday - Monday

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$159

Saturday - Monday

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$159

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$159

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$5295 $5136

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$159

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$159

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$5295 $5136

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$159

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$159

Saturday - Monday

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$5505 $5340

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$165

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$165

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$165

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$165

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$165

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Jul 23, 2025 - Aug 15, 2025
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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$165

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Jul 26, 2025 - Aug 18, 2025
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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$165

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$165

Saturday - Monday

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$5720 $5548

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$172

Wednesday - Friday

Aug 13, 2025 - Sep 05, 2025
$5720 $5548

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$172

Saturday - Monday

Aug 16, 2025 - Sep 08, 2025
$5720 $5548

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$172

Saturday - Monday

Aug 23, 2025 - Sep 15, 2025
$5720 $5548

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$172

Saturday - Monday

Aug 30, 2025 - Sep 22, 2025
$5720 $5548

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$172

Wednesday - Friday

Sep 03, 2025 - Sep 26, 2025
$5720 $5548

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$172

Saturday - Monday

Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 29, 2025
$5720 $5548

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$172

Wednesday - Friday

Sep 10, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025
$5720 $5548

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$172

Saturday - Monday

Sep 13, 2025 - Oct 06, 2025
$5720 $5548

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$172

Wednesday - Friday

Sep 17, 2025 - Oct 10, 2025
$5720 $5548

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$172

Saturday - Monday

Sep 20, 2025 - Oct 13, 2025
$5720 $5548

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$172

Saturday - Monday

Sep 27, 2025 - Oct 20, 2025
$5720 $5548

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$172

Saturday - Monday

Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 27, 2025
$5505 $5340

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$165

Saturday - Monday

Oct 11, 2025 - Nov 03, 2025
$5505 $5340

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$165

Saturday - Monday

Mar 28, 2026 - Apr 20, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Apr 04, 2026 - Apr 27, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Apr 11, 2026 - May 04, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Apr 18, 2026 - May 11, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Apr 25, 2026 - May 18, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

May 02, 2026 - May 25, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

May 09, 2026 - Jun 01, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

May 16, 2026 - Jun 08, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

May 23, 2026 - Jun 15, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Wednesday - Friday

May 27, 2026 - Jun 19, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

May 30, 2026 - Jun 22, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Jun 06, 2026 - Jun 29, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Jun 13, 2026 - Jul 06, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Jun 20, 2026 - Jul 13, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Jun 27, 2026 - Jul 20, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Wednesday - Friday

Jul 01, 2026 - Jul 24, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Jul 04, 2026 - Jul 27, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Jul 18, 2026 - Aug 10, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Wednesday - Friday

Jul 22, 2026 - Aug 14, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Jul 25, 2026 - Aug 17, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Aug 01, 2026 - Aug 24, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Aug 08, 2026 - Aug 31, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Wednesday - Friday

Aug 12, 2026 - Sep 04, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Aug 15, 2026 - Sep 07, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Aug 22, 2026 - Sep 14, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Aug 29, 2026 - Sep 21, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Wednesday - Friday

Sep 02, 2026 - Sep 25, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Sep 05, 2026 - Sep 28, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Wednesday - Friday

Sep 09, 2026 - Oct 02, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Sep 12, 2026 - Oct 05, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Wednesday - Friday

Sep 16, 2026 - Oct 09, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Sep 19, 2026 - Oct 12, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Sep 26, 2026 - Oct 19, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Oct 03, 2026 - Oct 26, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Saturday - Monday

Oct 10, 2026 - Nov 02, 2026
$5560 $5393

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$167

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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