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An Adventure in Europe Specially created for Jane Example and John Example Itinerary Preview Berlin, Prague, and Budapest September 01 – September 12, 2015 A Custom Itinerary designed by Go Real Europe Copyright 2015
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  • An Adventure in EuropeSpecially created for Jane Example and John ExampleItinerary PreviewBerlin, Prague, and BudapestSeptember 01 September 12, 2015

    A Custom Itinerarydesigned by Go Real EuropeCopyright 2015

  • ITINERARY OVERVIEWMembers of the Travel Group: Jane Example and John Example1. This is only a summary of your trip! Full-length itineraries include destination information,travel directions, maps, pictures, tips, and other details.2. Select Hotels on your client dashboard to see hotel pictures and descriptions.

    Pre-Paid Tours and Activities: Vltava River Cruise and City Overviewfrom the Old Town Hall Tower Guided Walking Tour of the Prague Cas-tle and the Royal Coronation Route

    Guided Excursion to the Medieval Townof Kutn Hora by Train Best of Budapest: Half-Day WalkingTour of Highlights & Hidden Finds

    Pre-Paid Transportation: 2nd Class Train Tickets from Berlin toPrague 2nd Class Train Tickets from Prague toBudapest Public Transport Tickets for Prague andBudapest

    Private Transfer from the Rail Station toYour Hotel Private Transfer to the Rail Station inPrague Private Transfer from the Budapest RailStation Transfer to Budapest Airport by PrivateCar

    Pre-Paid Hotels, including Daily Breakfast: 3 nights in the (Hotel T.B.D.) in Berlin 4 nights in the (Hotel T.B.D.) in Prague

    4 nights in the (Hotel T.B.D.) in Budapest

    Travel Information included in your itinerary: City Maps of Prague and Budapest Point to point travel directions Destination information & travel advice

    Free Skype calling to landlines world-wide, and to mobile phones in the U.S.and Canada

    Total Trip Cost for AllTravelers: N/AePlease see payment detailsand travel conditions here.

  • ITINERARY CONTENTS1 September 01, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Arrival in Berlin Airport and Transfer to Hotel by Taxi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Self Guided Visit to the Dorotheenstadt (Berlin Mitte) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

    2 September 02, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Self Guided Visit to the Tiergarten . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Stroll along the Kurfrstendamm and to the Memorial Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

    3 September 03, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Self Guided Visit to the Museum Island and Alexanderplatz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Self Guided Visit to Potsdamer Platz and Checkpoint Charlie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

    4 September 04, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Taxi Transfer to the Berlin Main Rail Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Rail Journey from Berlin to Prague . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Private Transfer from the Rail Station to Your Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Self Guided Visit to Pragues Old Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Vltava River Cruise and City Overview from the Old Town Hall Tower . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

    5 September 05, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Guided Walking Tour of the Royal Route and Prague Castle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Self Guided Tour of Prague Castle, Hradany, and Strahov Monastery . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Self Guided Tour of Pragues Little Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

    6 September 06, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Self Guided Tour of the Old Jewish Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Self Guided Tour of Pragues New Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Concert or Other Cultural Event in Prague . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

    7 September 07, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Guided Excursion to Kutn Hora by Train . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

    8 September 08, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Private Transfer to the Prague Main Train Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Rail Journey to Budapest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Arrival in Budapest, Pickup from Rail Station, & Check into Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Self Guided Visit to Central Pest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

    9 September 09, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Best of Budapest: Half-Day Walking Tour of Highlights & Hidden Finds . . . . . . . . . . . 16Self Guided Tour of the Castle District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Evening City-Lights River Cruise on the Danube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

    10 September 10, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18Visit to the Szchenyi Baths, Vrosliget Park, the Budapest Zoo, & Heroes Square . . . . . 18Along Andrssy Avenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18Self Guided Visit to the National Museum and Rady Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

    11 September 11, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Tour of the Hungarian Parliament Building and its Surroundings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Self Guided Excursion to Szentendre (St. Andrew) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

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  • 12 September 12, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Transfer to Budapest Airport by Private Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

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  • DAY 1Arrive Berlin

    September 01, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    Arrival in Berlin Airport and Transfer to Hotel by TaxiTo Be Determined

    For your arrival in Berlin we will provide information on the customsand passport procedures. We will also provide advice on taking a taxito your hotel, including an estimate of the cost and time of the ride toyour hotel. We will also provide some very basic directions for takingbus service into central Berlin to save on the taxi fare.Included: Arrival and transfer advice. Not Included: Taxi fare(about 25 EUR)Self Guided Visit to the Dorotheenstadt (Berlin Mitte)

    AfternoonThe Dorotheenstadt lies in the historic heart of the city and the politi-cal center of Germany. The Reichstag, the building which houses theGerman Parliament, is located here. It is topped by a egg-shaped glassdome which is open to the public. You can look down on the debat-ing lawmakers beneath, or look out upon beautiful views of the city.You will encounter the citys most iconic image, the Brandenburg Gate.Once the main entrance to Berlin, then later a symbol of its division, itis now a symbol of the city and nations reunication. At nearly 200 foottall it is an impressive site to behold. The gate leads into the Unter denLinden. This tree-lined boulevard is Berlins central axis and is crowdedwith important and historic buildings.Berlin is not a full serviceGoReal Europe destination. Itinerariesonly provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel direc-tions in Berlin.

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  • DAY 2Berlin

    September 02, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    Self Guided Visit to the TiergartenMorning

    Once the hunting ground of the Prussian dukes and kings, the Tier-garten is Berlins most famous and expansive park. It is a wonderfulescape from urban stress located in the very center of the city. You willdiscover beautiful forests, elds, and ponds, all easily reached throughan extensive and well maintained network of trails. In the center of thepark lies the Victory Column. Built as a memorial to Prussian victoriesin the 19th century, it is now a visitor favorite. A 285-step climb leadsup to a viewing platform with unobstructed views of the park and thecity. Germanys oldest zoo is also located in the Tiergarten, and is wellworth a visit.Berlin is not a full serviceGoReal Europe destination. Itinerariesonly provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel direc-tions in Berlin.Stroll along the Kurfrstendamm and to theMemorial Church

    AfternoonIn the 1920s the elegant, tree-line boulevard known as the Kurfrsten-damm was the center of Berlins nightlife and leisure scene, attractingwriters, lm stars, and artists. Once Berlin was divided by Communismthe Kurfrstendamm became the commercial heart of West Berlin; thecitys own Champs-lyses. Even after the fall of the Berlin Wall, itremains a favorite destination for Berliners for shopping, dining, andcafs, and in some ways is still the true center of Berlin. At the eastend of the Kurfrstendamm, you will discover a chilling reminder ofthe destructiveness of war. The Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gadchtnis-Kirche, isa former church originally built as a memorial to the Kaiser Wilhelm I.The church was mostly destroyed in World War II, and what remainsnow is the tower, jaggedly shorn of its upper reaches. Nearby youwill also discover the famous KaDeWe, the gigantic department storewhich served as a symbol of Westernmarket capitalism during the ColdWar.Berlin is not a full service Go Real Europe destination. Itinerariesonly provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel direc-tions in Berlin.

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  • DAY 3Berlin

    September 03, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    Self Guided Visit to the Museum Island andAlexanderplatzMorning

    In the middle of the Spree River lies one of the worlds most impres-sive collections of museums - Berlins Museum Island. This UNESCOWorld Heritage site is home to ve museums. A must for any historylover is the Pergamon Museum. It holds a spectacular collection of an-cient and classical art and architecture, including whole reconstructedbuildings! To the east of the Museum Island lies the Alexanderplatz.This square was once the center of East Berlin, and was rebuilt in the1960s as a showcase of Communist urban planning and architecture.Towering above the Alexanderplatz is the Fernsehturm, a 1,200 foottall television tower provides incredible panoramic views of the city.Berlin is not a full serviceGoReal Europe destination. Itinerariesonly provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel direc-tions in Berlin.Self Guided Visit to Potsdamer Platz and CheckpointCharlie

    AfternoonPotsdamer Platz is one of Berlins hippest new areas. Historically it wasone of the most important commercial and entertainment centers ofBerlin, but it was completely leveled during World War II. It was thenbisected by the Berlin Wall during the Cold War, becoming a lifelessarea. When the wall came down, Potsdamer Platz became a symbol ofthe reunited Berlin, and a tremendous amount of investment went intoits rebuilding. Today you can nd restaurants, shopping malls, bars,and other establishments that constantly attract locals to the area. Ahighlight is the Sony Center, a complex of entertainment, shopping,and oce buildings surrounding a plaza covered by a unique, tent-like roof. About half a mile from the Potsdamer Platz you will ndCheckpoint Charlie, a poignant reminder of the Cold War. Along theway you will see remnants of the Berlin Wall, and although it is not wellsigned, the WWII command bunker where Hitler met his end is alsolocated here.Berlin is not a full serviceGoReal Europe destination. Itinerariesonly provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel direc-tions in Berlin.

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  • DAY 4Berlin to Prague

    September 04, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    Taxi Transfer to the Berlin Main Rail Station8:00 AM

    Berlin taxis are generally reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than apre-arranged transfer. If you are picked up one hour prior to departure,you should have plenty of time to catch your train.Included: Instructions on taking a taxi to the rail station, instruc-tions for nding your train. Not included: Taxi fare.Rail Journey from Berlin to Prague

    08:46 13:25 by RailTickets and seat reservations for this approximately 5 hour rail journeyare included in the purchase of the itinerary package. Detailed direc-tions and instructions that make the trip easy and stress free are alsoincluded in the Full Itinerary. The itinerary will also tell you which sightsto look out for on this voyage through the scenic regions of Branden-burg, Saxony, and Bohemia.Included: Tickets, seat reservations, and detailed travel informa-tion.Private Transfer from the Rail Station to Your Hotel

    1:26 PMWe will schedule a pick up for your trains arrival time. You will be metin the station by an English speaking driver holding a sign with yourname on it. The drivers will give you good Prague tips during your rideto the hotel. The ride is for your party only - you will not be sharing avehicle. The cost of the ride is included in your package, and you willnot have to pay the driver, unless you choose to offer a small tip.Included: Private Transfer to Your HotelSelf Guided Visit to Pragues Old Town

    AfternoonTOP SITES:OLD TOWNHALL & CLOCK TOWER, KARLOVA STREET, CHURCHOF OUR LADY OF TYNA visit to Old Town (Star Msto) transports you to an entirely dif-ferent era. A labyrinth of twisting cobblestone lanes and alleys sur-round Old Town Square, which has been Pragues municipal centersince the Middle Ages. The Square is lined by magnicent churches

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  • DAY 4Berlin to Prague

    September 04, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    and imposing Renaissance palaces. Most notable are the Old TownHall, with its famed astronomical clock drawing large crowds at theturn of each hour, and the Tyn Church, with a multitude of spires thatseem to sprout like leaves from its towers. As you wander through theOld Town, you will discover numerous other delights, including severalbeautiful churches, a plentiful supply of cozy cafes and pubs, and anoutdoor market dating back to the Middle Ages. You could explorefor days in this charming district and still not uncover all of its hiddenwonders.Included:Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area.Vltava River Cruise and City Overview from the OldTown Hall Tower

    5:00 - 6:30 PMThis tour begins with an ascent to the tower of the Prague Old TownHall by elevator. From there you will have a panoramic view of Pragueshistoric center. Your breath will be taken away as you admire the sightof the expansive Old Town Square below you and gaze down at thesurrounding red rooftops and the maze of tiny streets. The guide willorientate you to the citys geography and give you a brief introductionto its history. After descending the tower the guide lead you on ahidden route through the courtyards of a former monastery to reachthe Charles Bridge. From there you will board a small boat for a shortcruise on the Vltava. There is perhaps no better way to get a true senseof Pragues beauty than from a boat making its way down the VltavaRiver. Beautiful buildings crowd the rivers edge, a series of statelybridges cross it, and the imposing Prague castle and pretty forestedhills rise above it. As you enjoy a complimentary drink, you will havean opportunity to relax and soak it all in, appreciating magical Pragueat its grandest.Included: Guide services, entry and elevator tickets for Old TownHall Tower, short boat cruise in center of Prague (

  • DAY 5Prague

    September 05, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    Guided Walking Tour of the Royal Route and PragueCastle9:30 - 12:30 PM

    On this charming guided walk you will explore the Prague Castle, thelargest castle complex in all of Europe. To reach the castle you willtrace the Royal Coronation Route and cross the Charles Bridge, whosespeaking stones reveal the amazing and often cruel history that hasoccurred there. You will pass through the enchanting Little Quarter,and take a tram up the hill to the nearly eleven hundred year old PragueCastle. Your tour will then take you through the castle courtyards andinto the dramatic St. Vitus Cathedral in the center of the castle complex.The tour ends up with a spectacular panoramic view of the city of ahundred spires.Included: 3-hour Private Guided Walking Tour, Entry into part of St.Vitus Cathedral. Not Included: Entry into the palace interior.Self Guided Tour of Prague Castle, Hradany, andStrahov Monastery

    Early AfternoonTOP SITES: ST. VITUS CATHEDRAL, GOLDEN LANE, LOBKOWICZ PALACE,STRAHOV MONASTERY, LORETOPrague Castle is the most visited destination in Prague, and forgood reason. The castles history stretches back over a 1000 years,and it has served as the seat of government for Bohemian kings, HolyRoman Emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia. It is now the seatof government of the Czech Republic, so you will encounter militaryhonor guards rigidly standing guard at the castle entrances. The cas-tle sits impressively perched on a hill overlooking the city, providing abreathtaking and romantic view. The castle is actually an entire com-plex of palaces, churches, and fortications representing almost everyarchitectural period of the last millennium, including the dramatic St.Vitus Cathedral, the historical seat of Pragues archbishop. In the cas-tles surrounding neighborhood, known as Hradany, you will discoverbeautiful gardens, a dazzlingly restored monastery, and more.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area.

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  • DAY 5Prague

    September 05, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    Self Guided Tour of Pragues Little QuarterLate Afternoon

    TOP SITES: CHARLES BRIDGE, NERUDOVA STREET, ST. NICHOLAS CHURCH,WALLENSTEIN PALACE AND GARDENSThe Little Quarter is a quaint yet lively quarter of Prague tightlynestled on the slope and river bank beneath the Prague Castle. Whileit may be small, the Little Quarter played an important role in Pragueshistory. It is lled with the homes of medieval and renaissance nobilitywho wanted to live as closely as possible to the castle. Picturesqueside streets, beautiful churches, and impressive Baroque architectureall abound within the Little Quarter. The Little Quarter is connected tothe rest of the city by the Charles Bridge, the citys most well-knownicon. No trip to Prague is complete without a visit to the bridge. Youwill also nd the peaceful island of Kampa Park, which is a pleasantplace for a stroll and offers a great chance to take in a view of Praguefrom the river bank. Nearby, the Wallenstein Palace Gardens offer apeaceful yet fascinating retreat from the city bustle.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Amap marked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interestin the area.

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  • DAY 6Prague

    September 06, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    Self Guided Tour of the Old Jewish QuarterMorning

    TOP SITES: JEWISH CEMETERY, OLD-NEW SYNAGOGUE, SPANISH SYNA-GOGUE, CONVENT OF ST. AGNESSome of Pragues earliest residents were Jewish, and their long his-tory in the city endowed it with a rich heritage of Jewish culture. Me-dieval church prohibitions against money-lending resulted in the Jewsplaying an important role in nancing Bohemian kings and nobility, andthus an important role in the citys economy. The Jewish ghetto, nowknown as the Jewish Quarter, was created in the twelfth century, asJews were forced by decree to live separately from Christians and closeto Old Town Square. Despite continued severe persecution, whichsometimes escalated to murderous mob attacks on the ghetto, theJewish community in Prague prospered over the long term. Sadly, onlya small minority of Pragues Jews survived the Nazi occupation, andtodays Jewish community is only a shadow of its former self. They leftbehind, however, a lasting legacy for you to explore, including syna-gogues, architecture, and a fascinating cemetery.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area.

    Self Guided Tour of Pragues New TownAfternoon

    TOP SITES: WENCESLAS SQUARE, MUNICIPAL HOUSE, SHOPPING ONNA PIKOP STREETDespite being nearly 700 years old, the New Town (Nov Msto)is the youngest of the original ve independent towns that made upMedieval Prague. In one sense however, the New Town is new. In thelate 19th century much of the New Town was demolished and rebuilt,giving it a distinctly different look and feel than the Old Town. Today,the heart of New Town is still one of the three original central marketsaround which it was planned - Wenceslas Square (Vaclavsk Nmst).The square, which could also be described as a wide boulevard, isthe commercial center of Prague, and is busy nearly 24-hours a day.In the New Town you will nd a great variety of shops, restaurants,nightspots, and pubs, as well as churches, cultural sites, museums. Youcan also visit one of the worlds most beautiful art-nouveau buildings -the Municipal House.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area.

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  • DAY 6Prague

    September 06, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    Concert or Other Cultural Event in PragueEvening

    A trip to a concert or other performance in the Czech Republic is a treaton many levels. Czech musicians, dancers, and actors are some of theworlds best, and are the product of a long-lasting national obsessionwith the arts. In fact, prior to Czech independence, the arts were one ofthe only outlets available to express Czech national pride and identity,which is one reason why today Prague has more theater and concertseats per resident than any other city in the world. With so muchof the citys pride and wealth poured into their concert venues, theexquisite details of the performance halls and foyers will make theexperience even more special and rewarding. A Prague concert guidewith information on choosing a performance and reserving tickets isprovided to Go Real Europe clients.Concert is not included. At your request, we can help you selecta performance and puchase tickets for you. A 4% transaction fee anda $17 USD booking fee is added to the cost of the tickets (applied pertravel party, not per person). In cases where the ticket must be pickedup at a ticket oce in advance and mailed to you, there is an additional$50 fee.

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  • DAY 7Prague

    September 07, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    Guided Excursion to Kutn Hora by TrainMorning / Afternoon

    On this full day guided excursion you will discover the charming Bo-hemian town of Kutn Hora. Your guide will pick you up from yourhotel, and after an hour long train ride through the pretty countryside,you will begin exploring the medieval town. Due to nearby silver mines,Kutn Hora was rich and powerful during the the Middle Ages. It waseven declared a Royal town, meaning that the Bohemian King directlycontrolled the town. The town spent much of its wealth on beautifulbuildings, many of which still exist today, and which have earned thetown the status of a UNESCO World Cultural site. Your visit will includestops at the incredible Gothic church of St. Barbara, the Royal Mint,and if you choose, the famous Bone Church. Formally known as theChurch of All Saints, the interior of the Bone Church is decorated withthe bones of thousands of victims of a plague epidemic and the Hus-site Wars. Another fascinating but hair raising option is to descend intothe narrow shafts of the Medieval silver mines.Included: PrivateGuide Services, Transportation, Entry into St. Bar-baras Church and the Bone Church. Not Included: Entry into theSilver Mines or other sites, Lunch

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  • DAY 8Prague to Budapest

    September 08, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    Private Transfer to the Prague Main Train Station8:50 AM

    A private transfer service will pick you up from the (Hotel T.B.D.) anddeliver you to the Prague Main Train Station (Praha hl.n). Your itinerarywill provide detailed information on navigating the train station andnding your train, making the whole process simple and stress free.Included: Private transfer to the train station, Instructions on nd-ing your train.Rail Journey to Budapest

    09:42 16:35 by RailTickets and seat reservations for this nearly seven hour journey toBudapest are included with purchase of an itinerary. You will alsoreceive detailed instructions for the voyage, as well as a translationand explanation of your tickets, allowing you to relax and enjoy thisjourney through three countries (the Czech Republic, Slovakia, andHungary).Included: Tickets, seat reservations, and detailed travel informa-tion.Arrival in Budapest, Pickup from Rail Station, &Check into Hotel

    4:35 PMUpon your arrival in Budapest your driver will meet you on the plat-form. He will be carrying a sign with your name on it. The driver willdrop you off at your hotel. This is a private transfer. The price of thepickup is already included in your itinerary cost so you will not have topay the driver.Included:Cost of the private transfer to your hotel, Arrival informa-tion.Self Guided Visit to Central Pest

    EveningTOP SITES: ST. STEPHENS BASILICA, GRESHAM PALACE, CHAIN BRIDGEIn the year 1800, Pest was a sleepy little town of a few thousandpeople, still unconnected to the Buda side of the river by a perma-nent bridge. 100 years later, Buda and Pest had merged to become

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  • DAY 8Prague to Budapest

    September 08, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    Budapest, and the majority of the citys nearly one million residentscould be found in Pest. This period of rapid growth endowed Pest witha tremendous architectural legacy. Exploring central Pest today youwill encounter grand apartment houses, Secession-style architecturalgems, and imposing monumental buildings. Two of the focal pointsyou will see are the neo-classical St. Stephens Basilica, which dramat-ically rises above the surrounding city, and the nearby Chain Bridge,which regally spans the Danube. You can also make a stop in the fa-mous Caf Gerbeaud, which may be the best spot in Budapest to relivethe elegant caf culture of the old days.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area.

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  • DAY 9Budapest

    September 09, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    Best of Budapest: Half-Day Walking Tour ofHighlights & Hidden Finds9:30 - 1:00 PM

    Budapest is a city of nearly two million people, the capital of Hungary,a cultural and architectural Mecca, and the possessor of a long andstoried history. Considering all this, it would be dicult for even themost seasoned traveler to successfully discover all of Budapests tophighlights without the help of a knowledgeable local. On this half-dayguided walking tour the challenge is overcome, as your guide takes youto Budapests best destinations and provides the perfect introductionto the city.During your tour you will take in a gorgeous vista of the city fromthe Fishermans Bastion, explore the winding streets of the Castle Dis-trict, gaze in awe at the striking interior of St. Stephens Basilica, travelalong the citys most elegant avenue with the help of Europes oldestsubway, and more. Along the way you will experience the city as a localdoes, stopping to check out intimate courtyards, enjoying a pastry (ortwo), and soaking in the ambience of Budapests most elegant cafes.Included: Private Guided Walking Tour.Self Guided Tour of the Castle District

    AfternoonTOP SITES:MATTHIAS CHURCH, FISHERMANS BASTION, ROYAL PALACE,NATIONAL GALLERYThe historic Renaissance and Baroque architecture of Budas hilltopCastle District makes it feel like a quaint step back in time. Indeed, inthe little squares and narrow lanes of the Castle District you will ndthe heart of historic Hungary. Numerous points in the Castle Districtalso provide breathtaking views over the Danube and the Pest sideof the city. Especially breathtaking is the view from the neo-GothicFishermans Bastion. The historic Buda old town shares the hill witha castle which has been home to the Hungarian Royal Palace sincethe late Middle Ages. The most glorious period of the castles historywas the reign of King Mtys (1458-1490), who rebuilt the palace inthe Renaissance style and made it a center of European learning andculture. A stroll through the castle reveals imposing courtyards anddelightful statues and fountains. Also worthwhile is a visit to the superbHungarian National Gallery.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area.

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  • DAY 9Budapest

    September 09, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    Evening City-Lights River Cruise on the DanubeEvening

    In many ways, the Danube River denes Budapest. It divides themetropolis into two distinct city environments - Buda and Pest. It isalso spanned by a succession of beautiful bridges which are some ofthe citys most well known landmarks. On the Pest side, a mix of 19thand 20th century buildings line the river bank, providing you with asense of the vibrancy lying beyond. The river also offers a perfectview of the neo-Gothic Parliament Buildings massive dome and am-boyant spires and towers. On the Buda side, the dramatic Castle Hilllooms above, creating the perfect romantic backdrop to the watersof the river. An evening river cruise is a relaxing way to take in thesesights, as the brightly lit buildings cast their reections on the waterand stately bridges pass overhead. A simple walk along the river prom-enade where the cruises depart also provides beautiful views, andwithout the cost of a boat ticket.Included: Cruise schedules and information on purchasing tickets,Travel directions to the boat docks. Cruise tickets are not included -tickets average about 10-20 EUR.

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  • DAY 10Budapest

    September 10, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    Visit to the Szchenyi Baths, Vrosliget Park, theBudapest Zoo, & Heroes SquareMorning

    TOP SITES: SZCHENYI BATHS, FINE ARTS MUSEUM, HEROES SQUARE,ZOO, VA JDAHUNYAD CASTLEBudapest is famous for its thermal baths fed by the citys abun-dant supply of thermal springs and underground water. The SzchenyiBaths are the largest and the most popular of all the citys baths. Witheighteen indoor and outdoor pools and impressive neo-Baroque archi-tecture, the baths make for an unforgettable visit. You can even geta massage. The baths are located within the pleasant Vrosliget Park,which makes a wonderful location for a stroll after your bath. Withinthe park you will nd the fascinating Vajdahunyad Castle, a complex ofbuildings created to represent Hungarys historic architectural styles.Also within the park is Budapests delightful city zoo. Where the parkmeets Andrssy Avenue, you will discover Heroes Square, where a dra-matic group of monuments tells a 1,000-year tale of Hungarian historyin the form of towering statues of national heroes.Included: Detailed step-by-step instructions for visiting the baths.Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Map marked withattractions, restaurants, and other points of interest in the area. NotIncluded: Cost of entry into the baths (about $20 a person).

    Along Andrssy AvenueAfternoon

    TOP SITES: STATE OPERA HOUSE, TERROR HOUSEAndrssy Avenue is Budapests most prominent street and a WorldHeritage Site since 2002. In fact, the avenue was considered so renedand pleasant in the late 19th century that the citys residents wouldntallow a streetcar line to be built on the avenue, even though it wasdesperately needed. To preserve the elegant atmosphere they insteadbuilt continental Europes rst subway, which today provides an excel-lent means of exploring the avenue. The avenue is lined by imposingneo-Renaissance palaces and buildings, including several museums.This includes the superb House of Terror Museum, which focuses onthe horrors inicted by totalitarian regimes in the 20th century. An-drassy Avenue is also the musical heart of Hungary, as the breathtak-ingly beautiful State Opera House is located on the avenue.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area.

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  • DAY 10Budapest

    September 10, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    Self Guided Visit to the National Museum and RadyStreetEvening

    TOP SITES: NATIONAL MUSEUM, MUSEUM OF APPLIED ART, RDAYSTREETThe National Museum is Hungarys largest museum and relatesHungarys long and very turbulent history. Renovated in the 1990s,it is a modern and highly accessible museum, and showcases a widerange of artwork and artifacts from Hungarys past, such as crowns,jewels, clothes and weapons. Nearby the Budapest Public Library ishoused in a gorgeous neo-Baroque palace. Once one of Budapestsmost luxurious residences, it has been transformed into an enchantinglabyrinth of books. The nearby Museum of Applied Arts is also housedin a stunning building. If you need to relax after the serious affairs ofvisiting the museum and library, or if you just want to skip straight tothe relaxing, Budapests favorite locale for the young and the youngat heart to socialize is only steps away. Rday street, also known asBudapest Soho, is lined by hip cafes, galleries, restaurants, and pubs.It is an ideal place to people watch and enjoy the atmosphere.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area. Not Included: Museum entry.

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  • DAY 11Budapest

    September 11, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

    Tour of the Hungarian Parliament Building and itsSurroundingsMorning

    TOP SITES: HUNGARIAN PARLIAMENT, ETHNOGRAPHICAL MUSEUMThe Hungarian Parliament building is a magnicent sight as it risesabove the waters of the Danube, and the interior is also quite jaw-dropping. As a visitor you may even feel a bit overwhelmed by thesumptuous dcor and attention-to-detail. You could be forgiven forexpecting a queen to arrive or an aristocratic ball to break out at anymoment. Visits to the interior can be made on a guided tour, whereyou will see a spectacular grand staircase, the historic Holy Crown ofHungary, an imposing debating chamber, and much more.Included: Background information on the Parliament and tips onpurchasing tickets, a map of the area. Map marked with attractions,restaurants, and other points of interest in the area.Not Included: Entry into the Parliament - tours cost 4,000 Hun-garian Forints (about $20 USD).

    Self Guided Excursion to Szentendre (St. Andrew)Afternoon

    On this self-guided excursion you will travel by train to the little, cobble-stoned town of Szentendre, charmingly nestled alongside the DanubeRiver. Szentendre means St. Andrew in English, and the town is lo-cated only about ten miles north of Budapest, but with its idyllic villageatmosphere it could not be more different. Nearly every building inthe town dates back to the period of Baroque architecture, includingchurches, burgher townhouses, and pleasant courtyard homes typicalof the Hungarian countryside. The twisting lanes and riverbank prome-nade make Szentendre a perfectly pleasant locale to wander and soakin the ambiance. If you have the time, you can also visit a fascinatingopen air museum where you will see re-created traditional peasantvillages, providing an authentic opportunity to see and experience howthe Hungarian people once lived in the countryside.Included: Detailed travel directions and background informationfor a stress-free independent excursion to Szentendre. Not Included:Transportation (only about 5 EUR a person roundtrip by train), OptionalEntry into Sights

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  • DAY 12Depart Budapest

    September 12, 2015

    Transfer to Budapest Airport by Private CarTo Be Determined

    A car service will pick you up from the (Hotel T.B.D.) and deliver you tothe Budapest Airport for your ight departure. This is a private transferjust for your travel party, and you will not need to pay the driver forthe transfer, as it is already included in the cost of the itinerary.Included: Private transfer by car to the Budapest Airport

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    September 01, 2015Arrival in Berlin Airport and Transfer to Hotel by TaxiSelf Guided Visit to the Dorotheenstadt (Berlin Mitte)

    September 02, 2015Self Guided Visit to the TiergartenStroll along the Kurfrstendamm and to the Memorial Church

    September 03, 2015Self Guided Visit to the Museum Island and AlexanderplatzSelf Guided Visit to Potsdamer Platz and Checkpoint Charlie

    September 04, 2015Taxi Transfer to the Berlin Main Rail StationRail Journey from Berlin to PraguePrivate Transfer from the Rail Station to Your HotelSelf Guided Visit to Prague's Old TownVltava River Cruise and City Overview from the Old Town Hall Tower

    September 05, 2015Guided Walking Tour of the Royal Route and Prague CastleSelf Guided Tour of Prague Castle, Hradany, and Strahov MonasterySelf Guided Tour of Prague's Little Quarter

    September 06, 2015Self Guided Tour of the Old Jewish QuarterSelf Guided Tour of Prague's New TownConcert or Other Cultural Event in Prague

    September 07, 2015Guided Excursion to Kutn Hora by Train

    September 08, 2015Private Transfer to the Prague Main Train StationRail Journey to BudapestArrival in Budapest, Pickup from Rail Station, & Check into HotelSelf Guided Visit to Central Pest

    September 09, 2015Best of Budapest: Half-Day Walking Tour of Highlights & Hidden FindsSelf Guided Tour of the Castle DistrictEvening City-Lights River Cruise on the Danube

    September 10, 2015Visit to the Szchenyi Baths, Vrosliget Park, the Budapest Zoo, & Heroes' SquareAlong Andrssy AvenueSelf Guided Visit to the National Museum and Rady Street

    September 11, 2015Tour of the Hungarian Parliament Building and its SurroundingsSelf Guided Excursion to Szentendre (St. Andrew)

    September 12, 2015Transfer to Budapest Airport by Private Car