Journey through Central Europe & Romania

Your European adventure begins in the beautiful city of Vienna. After a welcome meeting at 6 pm, you'll have the chance to explore the city, perhaps taking a spin on the famous Prater Ferris Wheel. Your accommodation for the night is the unique Magdas Hotel, a social enterprise dedicated to supporting refugees. After your meeting, why not get to know your travel companions over a delicious dinner?

Depart Vienna and cross the border into the Czech Republic to the charming town of Cesky Krumlov. This picturesque medieval town, nestled on a bend of the Vltava River, looks like it's straight out of a fairy tale. Upon arrival, embark on a guided tour of the town, starting in the main square. Wander through the Old Town, see the city's oldest pharmacy, and visit the stunning Cesky Krumlov Castle, offering panoramic views of the town below.

Today is yours to enjoy as you please in Cesky Krumlov. You might choose to take an optional guided castle tour, delve into the world of Austrian painter Egon Schiele at the Art Centrum, or embark on a canoe adventure on the Vltava River for a different perspective of the town.

Leave Cesky Krumlov behind and travel by bus to the vibrant city of Prague. Upon arrival, embark on an orientation walk with your leader to get your bearings. Spend your free afternoon and evening exploring the city's renowned jazz scene or wandering along the iconic Charles Bridge and Old Town Square for some magical photo opportunities.

Today is free to explore Prague at your own pace. You might choose to wander around the Jewish Quarter, pay your respects at the Gothic-inspired Old Jewish Cemetery, or visit the Museum of Communism to learn about the struggles of many European countries during the 19th and 20th centuries. In the evening, join your group for dinner and drinks in one of the city's renowned beer halls.

Today, visit the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum for a guided tour. In the afternoon, continue exploring Krakow at your own pace. If you're interested, head out to the Wieliczka Salt Mines, a network of tunnels and chambers some 135 meters below the ground. In the evening, indulge in a plate of traditional pierogi and a few beers to celebrate another day of your journey.

Today, you have a full 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. You could also head to Statue Park to see the communist monuments or soak in Budapest's hot thermal baths.

This morning, travel by train to the beautifully preserved Baroque town of Eger. Visit the wine cellars of the Valley of the Beautiful Women to sample some of the town's famous 'Bull's Blood' red wine. In your free time, explore Eger's 13th-century castle, which was the scene of a historic siege that thwarted the Ottoman Empire's advancement into Western Europe.

Travel to the pleasant town of Debrecen, where you'll have time to explore Deri Square and the golden Great Church. Continue by train and private vehicle into the Maramures region of Romania, a region where life has remained unchanged since medieval times. Upon arrival, settle into your room at a local family-run pension and enjoy a homecooked dinner.

Today, discover the rich tradition and folklore of Maramures, one of the last peasant cultures in Europe. Visit the unique Merry Cemetery in Sapanta, where the life stories of the deceased are displayed on colorful wooden crosses. You'll also explore traditional villages, including the village museum in Sighetu, showcasing beautiful local wooden architecture.

Travel to the medieval city of Sighisoara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved walled old town. Take a walk around the old town, explore the 64-meter-high clock tower, and learn about the city's most famous resident, Vlad the Impaler, whose name inspired Bram Stoker's iconic Count Dracula. In the evening, consider dining at Casa Dracula, a traditional Romanian restaurant.

Travel to the village of Viscri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional wooden architecture and fortified church. Visit the church and learn about the Sock Project, which supports the local Roma community. Enjoy a home-cooked dinner prepared by a local family, sampling fresh produce, homemade wines, and schnapps.

Travel to Brasov, a city flanked by mountains and known for its medieval trading center. Upon arrival, enjoy some free time to explore the city's main attractions, including the gothic Black Church, pedestrianized Strada Republicii, and the nearby Rasnov Fortress. In the evening, consider checking out the city's vibrant nightlife.

Today, visit the famed Bran Castle, said to be the inspiration for the home of Bram Stoker's Dracula. After exploring the castle, return to Brasov and enjoy free time to further explore the city's attractions or simply relax and soak up the city's vibrant atmosphere.