Epic Europe: Central and Italy

Welcome to the vibrant city of Berlin, Germany! Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, take the opportunity to explore this dynamic city, rich in history, art, and architecture. As night falls, get to know your travel companions over a traditional German meal or hit the clubs to experience Berlin's legendary nightlife.

Bid farewell to Berlin and board a train to Wroclaw, a cultural gem in southwest Poland. Upon arrival, join your leader on a walk around the city, soaking in its timeless charm. Spend the rest of the day exploring at your leisure, perhaps visiting the historic Ostrów Tumski or enjoying a picnic by the River Oder.

Today, journey to the historic city of Krakow. As you stroll through the World Heritage-listed Old Town, marvel at the medieval architecture and vibrant squares. Don't miss the chance to visit the Wawel Royal Castle and the impressive St Mary's Basilica. Enjoy a local snack of zapiekanka as you explore this captivating city.

Enjoy a free day to explore Krakow at your own pace. Walk the 'Royal Route' to discover the Old Town's treasures, or venture to Wieliczka to visit its 700-year-old salt mine. After a day of sightseeing, unwind at one of Krakow's cellar restaurants with a plate of pierogis and a cold drink.

Today, head to the enchanting city of Prague in the Czech Republic. After checking into your hotel, embark on an orientation walk to discover Prague's best sites. Wander the streets of the Jewish Quarter, stroll along the scenic Charles Bridge, and watch the Astronomical Clock in action. The rest of the day is yours to explore this gorgeous city at your own pace.

Enjoy another day in Prague to visit the sites you missed yesterday. Consider a trip to the awe-inspiring Prague Castle or the eerie Sedlec Ossuary. As night falls, return to the magical Old Town for an evening stroll before exploring the town's cosy cellar hangouts or underground Absinthe bars.

Leave Prague behind and travel to the fairytale-like town of Cesky Krumlov. Join your leader on a walk around town, learning about its architectural symbolism and Old Town mysteries. Spend your free time exploring the castle and its gardens, or simply relax by the riverfront. If you're feeling adventurous, ask your leader about the rafting and canoeing activities on offer.

Today, travel to the beautiful city of Vienna, Austria. Get acquainted with the city on a leader-led walk and then enjoy some free time to explore on your own. Art lovers can visit the Leopold Museum, the Albertina, or the Belvedere Palace. In the evening, experience Vienna's incredible musical heritage with a performance at a historic venue.

Spend another day exploring Vienna's rich artistic and intellectual heritage. Visit the Schloss Belvedere, Schoenbrunn Palace, or the Hofburg Palace complex. Alternatively, explore some of the city's unique museums or take a spin on the Prater Ferris Wheel. End your day with a captivating performance at the opera house.

Today, continue your journey to Budapest, Hungary. Upon arrival, your leader will guide you around the city. Visit the Great Market Hall to sample Hungarian specialties and enjoy a delicious market snack. Spend the rest of the day exploring Budapest's bustling city life, trendy cafes, and cheap eats.

Spend the day exploring Budapest further. Visit the 13th-century Buda Castle, take a leisurely stroll along the cobbled streets of the Castle District, or enjoy a boat trip along the Danube River. As the day ends, find a great dinner spot or head back to the ruin bars for a night out.

Today, travel to the picturesque town of Bled, Slovenia. Nestled at the foothills of the Julian Alps, Bled is a fairy-tale town with a stunning lake. Upon arrival, your leader will point out the town's best attractions. Spend the rest of the day exploring or simply relax and enjoy the town's famous cream cake.

Enjoy a free day in Bled to explore at your leisure. Whether you prefer hiking, biking, canoeing, or rafting, Bled offers a range of activities to suit all interests. Alternatively, visit Bled Castle, take a boat to the island in the lake, or venture further afield to the charming town of Bohinj.

Travel to the romantic city of Venice, Italy. Built over a hundred small islands connected by 400 bridges, Venice is a unique city with a rich history and culture. Spend your free time exploring the city's famous sights, such as the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge, and the Piazza San Marco. Don't forget to try the local specialty, tiramisu!

Spend the day exploring Venice at your own pace. Visit the famous flooding bookshop, Libreria Acqua Alta, take a gondola ride, or simply wander the city's enchanting streets. In the evening, gather with your group for a special dinner at Orient Experience, a restaurant that supports Venice's migrant and refugee community.

Leave Venice behind and travel to Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet. Visit the Arena di Verona and Juliet's balcony before heading to Lake Garda. Enjoy the serene beauty of the lake and find a lakeside restaurant for dinner with your travel buddies.

Spend the day exploring the beautiful region of Lake Garda. Visit the charming town of Peschiera del Garda, take a dip in the turquoise waters of the lake, or learn about the Republic of Venice's history at the Peschiera del Garda fortress. As the sun sets, enjoy an Aperol spritz or a negroni by the water.

Travel to the beautiful city of Parma, a food lover's paradise. After an orientation walk around the city, spend your free time sampling traditional delicacies like Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano. Don't miss the chance to visit the Duomo di Parma or the Labirinto di Franco Maria Ricci.

Head to La Spezia, the gateway to Cinque Terre. Spend the day at the beach, soak up the sun, and indulge in fresh seafood. Alternatively, take a bus to Portovenere, the 'sixth town' of Cinque Terre, and explore its historic sites. Enjoy the Mediterranean coast at your own pace.

Welcome to Cinque Terre, one of the most beautiful coastal stretches in Italy. Join your leader on a hike through the region's scenic trails, or choose to relax on the beach. Later, learn how to make traditional pesto or take a boat cruise to enjoy the stunning coastline from a different perspective.

Travel to Pisa and visit the iconic Leaning Tower. After taking the obligatory photo, continue to the beautiful city of Florence. Join your leader on an orientation walk around the city, then spend the evening exploring at your own pace. Enjoy a traditional Italian aperitivo and dinner in this charming city.

Spend a full day exploring the beautiful city of Florence. Visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo's David, climb the 463 steps to the top of the Duomo for a panoramic view of the city, or simply wander the streets and discover Florence's rich history and culture. In the evening, enjoy a sunset aperitivo in Piazzale Michelangelo.

Travel to the illustrious capital city of Rome. Walk in the footsteps of emperors, conquerors, and gladiators as you explore the city's historic sites. Visit the Roman Colosseum, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, or explore the Forum. In the evening, ask your leader for the best places to enjoy a traditional Italian dinner.

Your European adventure comes to an end today. Spend your last day exploring Rome at your own pace. As there is so much to see in Rome, consider extending your stay to fully experience this historic city. Safe travels!