Grand European (4 Star Hotels)

Welcome to Bucharest! At the airport, keep an eye out for the Travel Talk sign for your transfer to the hotel. At the hotel around 7pm, have an informal welcome meeting with your guide and fellow travelers. After you get all the critical information about the tour, head out for our optional group dinner around 8:15pm and walk the streets of Bucharest.

After a hefty breakfast at the hotel, it's time to launch our discovery of the fascinating Romanian capital, Bucharest. Follow your guide as we visit unmissable landmarks of the city starting with the Revolution Square, Arc of Triumph and Romania Athenaem. Learn about the unique culture and vast history of the city as we continue to the famous Opera House, National Military Club, Dimitrie Gusti National Village and the Palace of Parliament, each building presents a different perspective to the Romanian culture and an artwork in itself. After some personal leisure time for you to explore this gorgeous city on your own terms, return to the hotel following a long day of discovery.

Today's the day we set course for the fascinating region of Transylvania. Drive through misty forests of lush green towards our first stop at Peles Castle in Sinaia, a beautiful neo-renaissance castle in the Carpathian mountains (Please note that it is not possible to visit inside of the castle). Just as we start to warm up to this unique atmosphere, goosebumps creep in... Prepare for the legendary Bran Castle, also known as the Castle of Count Dracula! This iconic sight is where legend and reality blend together to create the timeless stories of the vampires. Continue deep into Transylvania to Brasov, a fascinating town surrounded by medieval Saxon walls and embellished with gothic & baroque architecture. Starting with the cobble-stone Piata Sfatului (Council Square), visit famous landmarks as the Black Church and Muresenilor House Museum before checking into our hotel.

Ready to follow the footsteps of Count Dracula? Our journey continues to Sighisoara after making a stop at the Clock Tower. Soak in marvellous views of Sighisoara Citadel, the Dominican Monastery, The Church on the Hill (Biserica din Deal), and Dracula's House while listening to your guide about the colourful background of the town. Our next stop will be the unofficial capital of the Transylvania region, Cluj-Napoca! Tag along your tour leader for a sightseeing tour of the colourful town, visiting the Union Square, St. Mihail Church and Matthias Corvinus Monument. Then make way to our 4-star hotel following a long day of discovery with spare time to scroll through your photo reel.

After breakfast at the hotel, we depart for the salt mines of Turda. This fascinating geologic wonder first produced salt for the region in antique times and has been active since the 11th century! Continuing to Hunedeoara Castle, also known as the Corvin Castle, learn all about the vibrant history of the Transylvanian citadel from your guide. Our next stop will be the fairytale-like town of Sibiu. Relax at our comfortable 4-star hotel following a day filled with cultural adventure or start exploring Sibiu as you wish.

We start our day with a walking tour of charming Sibiu. Presenting marvellous samples of Germanic architecture, Sibiu's legacy dates back to Saxxon settlers from the 12th century. Tag along your tour leader to view landmarks such as Brukenthal Palace, Piata Mare (city square), Lutheran Cathedral, Holy Trinity Cathedral and the Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. In the afternoon, we will be heading back to Bucharest for our overnight stay.

It's time to bid farewell to Romania as we embark our ride for Veliko Tarnavo, the City of the Tsars. The historic capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire displays the unique Bulgarian architecture from the medieval age. Uncover the vast history and gems including Tsareverts Fortress and the Holy Forty Martyrs Church before moving on to Plovdiv.

Fill up at breakfast at the hotel as we prepare for a city tour of beautiful Plovdiv. Launching our tour at Old Plovdiv in Nebet Hill, visit the Balabanov and Georgi Mavridi House, witness the impressive St. Konstantin Church and Elena Church, and proceed to Roman Amphitheatre of Philippopolis and Stadium - some of the best-preserved samples of Roman architecture in the world. Then we continue to visit the Citadel Door, Castle Streets and St. Nedelya Church. Having explored the marvels of Plovdiv, we embark for Sofia! Upon arrival, discover the Bulgarian capital on a panoramic city tour covering all the unmissable sights of the city and learn about its rooted history.

After a substantial breakfast, hop on the bus and make your way to the Serbian capital, Belgrade. With stunning views over the Danube and Sava rivers by the mighty medieval Belgrade Fortress, head to the heart of the capitol. Starting off at the vibrant pretty shopping street, Knez Mihailova, filled with cafes, shops and charming sites, kick off the walking tour to discover the incredible landmarks Belgrade has in store and their marvellous histories.

Next stop Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital, the city that has been through it all! It is where the Western and Eastern Roman Empire split and where people of many nations and religions met, lived and warred. You can still see many reminders of the Yugoslav War in bullet holes and cannon marks all around town. Though, still an oriental beauty with a unique twist, and a delight to discover on your walking tour in the old town. The city offers endless delicacies to taste, but the specialty is lamb.

Today, we drive for the amazing Adriatic shore, but first a stop at Mostar! As you arrive in this dreamland, walk through the Old Town of this Herzegovina pearl, see the iconic highlights Old Bridge – Stari Most, and the old caršija (market). Enjoy your lunch with an amazing view at one of the local venues, discover the old town and make sure to try the delicious Turkish coffee. In the afternoon, we ride to Trebinje for our overnight stay.

Get ready for a long day at Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic"! With its well-preserved majestic walls encircling the whole town and its sea of terra-cotta roof tiles, giving life to the "King’s Landing", the whole town is an amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even the drive down to town from the mountain-side is a breakth-taking highlight in itself! We start off with a guided walking tour of the Old Town and marvel at the millennial history of this fairy-like town. Walk atop the mighty walls, discover cute narrow streets, taste delicious seafood or jump off into the crystal-blue waters. In the evening, we return to Trebinje for a good night's rest.

Next stop Montenegro! Arrive in Kotor after a scenic drive an meet its calming natural beauty and characteristic architecture, a less-crowded version of Dubrovnik with its impressive medieval citadel. Following a walking tour of the old town with your expert local guide and some free time. Departure to Albania, which is our final destination for the day. Shkoder is one of the most authentic cities in Albania. Walking tour through the centre. Overnight in Shkoder.

Hit the road after breakfast! A panoramic city tour of Tirana will introduce the best preserved and most beautiful samples of Albanian architecture, and drop us off at the town centre for some free time to discover the bustling Skenderbeg square. In the afternoon, continue towards Ohrid, Macedonia and check-in to your comfy hotel. You can rest up after a long day, or join the optional Balkan night with dinner.

Start off the day with a guided city tour of Old Ohrid hosting hundreds of chapels and churches scattered all around. In the afternoon travel to Skopje, the capital of Macedonia, for the night.

Are you ready to say goodbye to the Balkans and fly to Berlin, Germany’s capital city? Upon arrival enjoy some free time to explore the city’s famous landmarks at your own leisure.

Embark on a captivating morning exploration with a guided tour of Berlin, starting with a visit to the historic Reichstag building, which has housed the German Parliament since its construction in 1894. Proceed to the iconic Brandenburg Gate, a symbol once emblematic of the city’s division during the Cold War era. Following the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the gate has transformed into a powerful symbol of German unity, alongside the controversial Checkpoint Charlie.As you traverse the city, cruise along the elegant Unter den Linden Boulevard and Kurfurstendamm, a renowned avenue that has long been one of Berlin’s most iconic thoroughfares. Pass by notable landmarks such as the German State Opera House and the Baroque Deutscher Dom (German Cathedral), a magnificent structure dating back to the 1700s.In the early afternoon, immerse yourself in Berlin’s Hidden Past with a dedicated tour, peeling back the layers of history to reveal remnants of the city’s transformative journey.

After a hearty breakfast, travel from Berlin to Dresden, renowned for its impressive artistic masterpieces and Baroque architectural wonders. Although significant portions of this city fell victim to wartime destruction, meticulous restoration efforts have restored its former splendor, notably showcased in landmarks such as the Royal Palace and its museum housing treasures dating back to the 1720s. Your guided walking tour will lead you to iconic sites such as the Zwinger Palace, the Semper Opera, and the unmistakable Dresden Frauenkirche, the Church of Our Lady, meticulously reconstructed from rubble.As the day comes to a close, travel on to Prague and check in at your hotel.

Embark on a captivating day in Prague with a guided walking tour leading you through the picturesque Lesser Town (Malá Strana), also known as the charming Little Quarter. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of this historic area, characterized by ancient burgher houses and winding quaint side streets. As you traverse the iconic Charles Bridge, Europe’s venerable stone bridge, marvel at the breathtaking views that unfold before you, leading you to the heart of Prague’s medieval center, the Old Town.Delve into the medieval charm of Old Town as you explore its cobbled streets and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Town Square. Continue your journey into the Jewish Quarter, once the largest Jewish ghetto in Europe, where you’ll encounter the elegant white stucco St. Nicholas Church, the renowned Astronomical Clock, and the historic Town Hall.In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour to the hilltop Prague Castle complex, the former regal residence of Bohemian kings. Discover the magnificence of St. Vitus Cathedral, the hallowed space where kings were crowned, and be treated to spectacular vistas offering panoramic views of the entire city below. This comprehensive exploration promises to unveil the rich tapestry of Prague’s history, architecture, and cultural heritage.

Embark on a picturesque morning journey from Prague to the charming city of Regensburg in Germany. Take your time to leisurely explore the enchanting delights of Regensburg, situated along the scenic Danube River. Renowned as one of Germany’s largest and impeccably preserved medieval cities, Regensburg holds the prestigious designation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Allow yourself to be captivated by the architectural marvels, including stunning churches and the one-of-a-kind medieval stone bridge that gracefully spans the majestic River Danube. Later on, ride to Munich and take a moment’s rest to fuel up for a full day in Munich packed with popular sights.

We begin the day with an introductory stroll led by your group leader to discover key attractions like Marienplatz, Frauenkirche, and Viktualienmarkt. Marvel at the iconic Marienplatz, the city’s vibrant central square, adorned with historical landmarks and surrounded by picturesque architecture. Explore the awe-inspiring Frauenkirche, a symbol of Munich’s rich history and a testament to its resilience. For the rest of the day, enjoy free time at your own pace, or choose to engage in the optional excursion to the enchanting Linderhof Palace, a fairytale creation commissioned by the eccentric King Ludwig II, and Oberammergau, renowned for its celebrated passion play.In the evening, roam the city freely and perhaps savor some traditional Bavarian beer in one of Munich’s famous beer halls.

Embark on a scenic journey from Munich to Salzburg, a captivating city cradled amidst the breathtaking Austrian Alps. Take a guided tour through the highlights of Salzburg and acquaint yourself with the city’s myriad attractions. Visit Mirabell Palace and Gardens, where classical beauty converges with manicured landscapes. Venture to the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress, a medieval stronghold perched majestically on a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Alpine panorama. Visit the awe-inspiring Salzburg Cathedral, a masterpiece of baroque architecture. Delve into the Mozart Residence, the former home of the renowned composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, to gain insight into his life and musical genius. Later, we proceed towards Vienna.

Embark on a captivating sightseeing odyssey today, beginning with a scenic drive along the renowned Ringstrasse, where landmarks such as the Empress Maria Theresia Monument, Votive Church, City Hall, and Parliament grace your path. Stroll through the Hofburg courtyards, tracing the footsteps of history, until you reach the State Opera House. Marvel at the architectural magnificence that punctuates this iconic cityscape.Take a tour that unveils the grandeur of Schonbrunn Palace, once the opulent summer abode of the Habsburg emperors. Immerse yourself in the rich historical tapestry as you traverse through the ornate halls and lush gardens of this imperial residence. You can also join our optional guided tour to Danube Tower and Salzbergwerk Berchtesgaden Salt Mine, an underground marvel nestled in the heart of the Bavarian Alps. Uncover the secrets of this centuries-old salt mine as you traverse its subterranean chambers.

Today, after a delicious breakfast at the hotel, your unforgettable Central Europe & Balkans & Transylvania tour comes to an end. Bid farewell to your fellow travelers and the magnificent Europe until next time!