Epic Europe: Central and Italy

Begin your multi-day adventure in the vibrant city of Berlin, where you’ll meet your fellow travelers at a welcome gathering this evening. Settle into your accommodation (Hotel Berlin, Berlin or similar) and, if you arrive early, immerse yourself in the city’s dynamic atmosphere. Wander through streets brimming with history, cutting-edge art, and striking architecture. As night falls, experience Berlin’s legendary nightlife or savor a local favorite, currywurst, with your new travel companions.

Depart Berlin and journey to the enchanting Polish city of Wroclaw, nestled along the Oder River. After settling into your hotel (PURO Wroclaw Stare Miasto or similar), join your leader for an orientation walk that reveals the city’s medieval charm. Explore iconic sites such as Cathedral Island, the bustling Old Town Square, and the architecturally rich Four Denominations District. The afternoon is yours to discover Wroclaw’s riverside beauty or enjoy a picnic with newfound friends.

Travel by train to the storied city of Krakow, your home for the next two nights. Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, marveling at its medieval architecture, grand squares, and historic churches. Sample local street food like zapiekanka as you explore. Later, visit the majestic Wawel Royal Castle, the awe-inspiring St Mary’s Basilica, or the neo-Gothic St Francis’ Basilica. Enjoy the evening at leisure, soaking up Krakow’s vibrant atmosphere.

Enjoy a full day to uncover Krakow’s treasures at your own pace. Walk the historic Royal Route, passing landmarks like Florianska Gate and the Barbican. As evening approaches, dine at a traditional milk bar, experiencing authentic Polish cuisine and local culture in a lively, communal setting. Accommodation remains at your Krakow hotel (Hotel Unicus Palace or similar).

Bid farewell to Poland and journey into the Czech Republic, stopping in Ostrava before continuing by train to Prague. After checking in (NYX Hotel Prague or similar), join your leader for an orientation walk through Prague’s enchanting streets. Explore the historic Jewish Quarter, visit the Old-New Synagogue, and discover the Franz Kafka Museum. Stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge and witness the Astronomical Clock’s hourly show. The evening is yours to delve deeper into Prague’s charm.

Spend another day exploring Prague’s wonders. Visit Prague Castle for panoramic city views, or take a day trip to Kutna Hora to see the haunting Sedlec Ossuary and the magnificent St Barbara Church. As night falls, wander through Prague’s Old Town, discovering its magical ambiance, or seek out a cozy jazz club or an underground absinthe bar for a taste of the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Travel south to the storybook town of Cesky Krumlov, where Renaissance and Baroque architecture line the winding river. Join your leader for a guided walk, uncovering the town’s secrets and symbolism. Climb the Castle Tower for sweeping views, explore the castle and its gardens, or browse the riverside shops. For the adventurous, rafting or canoeing may be available, weather permitting. Stay overnight at a local guesthouse (Hotel Bellevue Cesky Krumlov or similar).

Cross into Austria and arrive in Vienna, a city renowned for its elegance, coffee culture, and musical legacy. After a leader-led orientation walk, enjoy free time to explore. Art enthusiasts can visit the Leopold Museum, the Albertina, or the Belvedere Palace, home to masterpieces by Klimt. In the evening, consider attending a performance at the historic Vienna State Opera House. Rest at your Vienna hotel (Hotel Beethoven Wien or similar).

Delve deeper into Vienna’s imperial grandeur. Visit the ornate Belvedere, Schoenbrunn, or Hofburg palaces, or explore unique museums such as the Schnapps Museum, Sigmund Freud Museum, or Globe Museum. Climb St Stephen’s Cathedral, ride the Prater Ferris Wheel, or watch a dressage show at the Spanish Riding School. Cap off your day with a classical concert or opera, immersing yourself in Vienna’s rich cultural tapestry.

Travel by train to Budapest, where your leader will introduce you to the city’s highlights and culinary delights, including the beloved Hungarian specialty, langos. Budapest’s blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy awaits, with trendy cafes, lively bars, and affordable eats. In the evening, explore the city’s famous ruin bars or seek out hidden gems with your leader’s recommendations. Stay at a centrally located hotel (Hotel Parlament or similar).

Enjoy a free day to explore Budapest’s rich history and stunning vistas. Visit the majestic Buda Castle, home to the Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum, or take in panoramic views from Fisherman’s Bastion. Consider a scenic cruise along the Danube River for a unique perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks. In the evening, discover Budapest’s vibrant dining scene or return to the lively ruin bars for another unforgettable night.

Embark on a scenic journey to Slovenia, arriving in the picturesque lakeside town of Bled via Ljubljana. After checking in (Hotel Park Bled or similar), visit the iconic Lake Bled, its medieval clifftop castle, and the charming island at the lake’s center. Indulge in Bled’s famous cream cake or join your group for a dinner of Slovenian specialties, surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery.

Today is yours to embrace Bled’s natural beauty and adventure. Hike or bike through the surrounding countryside, explore the dramatic Vintgar Gorge, or raft along the emerald Soca River. For a more relaxed pace, visit Bled Castle or take a traditional boat to the island church to ring the wishing bell. Alternatively, venture to the nearby lakeside town of Bohinj. Return to your hotel for a restful evening.

Travel to the enchanting city of Venice, a marvel of canals, bridges, and timeless beauty. Settle into your accommodation (Hotel Carlton on the Grand Canal or similar) and spend your free time exploring the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, Doge’s Palace, Piazza San Marco, and the Bridge of Sighs. Indulge in authentic tiramisu, a Venetian specialty, and immerse yourself in the city’s unique atmosphere.

Enjoy a leisurely day in Venice, with time to browse the shops along the Ponte di Rialto, visit the whimsical Libreria Acqua Alta, or glide through the canals on a romantic gondola ride. In the evening, meet new travelers joining the tour and consider dining at Orient Experience, a restaurant supporting the city’s migrant community. Rest at your Venice hotel.

Depart Venice for the romantic city of Verona. Join your leader for a walk through the city, visiting Juliet’s famed balcony and the ancient Arena di Verona. Sample local pastries before continuing to the scenic shores of Lake Garda. Enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant and unwind at your Lake Garda accommodation (Hotel Peschiera or similar).

Wake up to the tranquil beauty of Lake Garda. Spend your day exploring the charming town of Peschiera del Garda, wandering along canals and rivers, or relaxing by the lake. Visit the UNESCO-listed fortress to learn about the region’s history. As the sun sets, gather with your group for drinks and enjoy the lakeside ambiance.

Leave Lake Garda behind and head to Parma, a paradise for food lovers. After an orientation walk, sample the city’s renowned delicacies, including Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano. Explore the Duomo di Parma with its stunning frescoes or venture to the world’s largest labyrinth, the Labirinto di Franco Maria Ricci. Stay overnight at a local hotel (NH Parma or similar).

Journey to La Spezia, the gateway to the stunning Cinque Terre. Spend the day basking on Mediterranean beaches or savoring fresh seafood. Take a trip to Portovenere, the unofficial ‘sixth town’ of Cinque Terre, where you can explore the 12th-century Doira Castle or find inspiration at the Grotta di Lord Byron. Enjoy the relaxed coastal atmosphere before returning to your hotel (CDH Hotel La Spezia or similar).

Experience the breathtaking coastline of Cinque Terre, where your leader will guide you along scenic hiking trails with panoramic views of the Mediterranean. After your hike, unwind at a beach club, participate in a pesto-making demonstration, or embark on a coastal boat cruise. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore at your own pace. Stay overnight in Cinque Terre (Hotel Villa Argentina or similar).

Depart Cinque Terre for Pisa, where you’ll visit the iconic Piazza del Duomo, the Baptistery, the Cathedral, and the world-famous Leaning Tower. After some free time to explore and sample Tuscan delicacies, continue to Florence. Your leader will introduce you to the city’s highlights and recommend the best spots for dinner and drinks. Stay at a centrally located Florence hotel (Hotel L'Orologio or similar).

Spend a full day exploring Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance. Visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s David, admire sculptures in Piazza della Signoria, or climb the Duomo for panoramic city views. Discover the city’s quirky wine windows and enjoy a sunset aperitivo at Piazzale Michelangelo before heading out for a memorable evening in Florence.

Travel to Rome, the Eternal City, where history comes alive at every turn. Join your leader for an orientation walk, then explore iconic sites such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City. Marvel at St Peter’s Dome, the Vatican Museum, and the Sistine Chapel. In the evening, toast to your journey with a delicious Roman dinner. Stay at a centrally located hotel (Hotel Quirinale or similar).

Your unforgettable multi-day tour concludes this morning in Rome. With so much left to discover, consider extending your stay to further explore the city’s ancient wonders, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class cuisine.