Central Europe: Castles, Culture & Capitals

All breakfasts are included.

The cuisines of Central Europe possess many similarities yet retain their own gastronomic traditions. Hearty soups, noodles, dumplings made from wheat or potato, and meat dishes consisting of pork, beef and game are regional staples. You will also find a large variety of sausages and vegetables featuring prominently in many dishes. Dairy products, including cheeses and creams, are heavily used here too.

Breakfasts are usually continental with a choice of eggs

Lunch is the main meal of the day in Central Europe; we usually stop en route for a hot lunch at a restaurant or cafe

Desserts are plentiful and varied with each country having unique sweets and cakes

Czech beer is renowned for its quality and taste, while many of the countries visited on the trip also offer good wines and local spirits

Vegetarians and other dietary requirements can be catered for, but there may not be the same variety as you have at home. Please advise us upon booking.

The leader will accompany the group to a restaurant each evening but will provide recommendations if you wish to explore separately.

vegetarian, vegan, meat

We use an air-conditioned minibus for all transfers.

The accommodations selected for this adventure are a mix of three- and four-star hotels and a pension, each chosen for comfort and convenience. Listed below are the properties we usually use on this trip.

Prague: Hotel Lunik (nights 1-2)

On a quiet street in the Královské Vinohrady district, this traditional family hotel is just a few minutes’ stroll from the historic city centre. There’s free wifi (and a computer corner should you need it), plus the hotel lobby sells Nespresso coffee and cold alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Cesky Krumlov: Penzion Prelat (night 3)

Stay just a moment’s walk from a bend in the Vltava River and the historic centre of Cesky Krumlov with a night at Penzion Prelat. The historic, red-roofed building has been revamped with care taken to preserve its original charms, including antique furniture and wood-beamed ceilings in many of the rooms. There’s also a social area with a bar, where the group can gather and discuss their adventures.

Mikulov: Hotel Galant (night 4)

Kick back at this four-star in the centre of town. For a small entrance fee, there’s a wellness centre with an indoor pool for a quick dip, plus an open roof terrace with two whirlpools, deckchairs and views over the Mikulov landmarks. It also has two Finnish saunas, plus a small infrared sauna. Elsewhere, there’s a restaurant serving selected local wines and the hotel’s own homemade beer.

Bratislava: Hotel Bluebell (nights 5-6)

Offering comfortable rooms, the Hotel Bluebell is the ideal place to sink into for a couple of nights. It’s just a 10-minute walk to the centre of Bratislava, while each room comes with tea- and coffee-making facilities should you wish to simply relax.

Budapest: Hotel Andrassy (night 7)

In the capital of Hungary, we typically stay in Hotel Andrassy, a modern hotel in the city centre. Rooms are traditional and unfussy and have private bathrooms with a massage shower. You'll dine in the the Andrássy garden restaurant for breakfast.

hotel: 12 night(s);

Tour leader throughout