Through the intriguing capitals of Eastern Europe to the newly emerging Baltic States this trip takes you deep into the heart of old Europe with the added bonus of enjoying time in Russias emblematic cities of St Petersburg and Moscow.
Itinerary:
Day 1,BUDAPEST Arrive in Budapest. Day 2,BUDAPEST In the morning we have a guided orientation tour. The rest of the day is free to explore this beautiful city which offers such an endless succession of wonderful views a?" the old city of Buda, crowned by Castle Hill and the stunning Matthius Church, and the new city of Pest with the unmistakable claret spires and dome of the parliament building. (B) Day 3,EGER After breakfast we take a train to Eger. The rest of the day is free to explore the beautiful villages and vineyards of the region or the city of Eger itself, with its wonderful baroque architecture. 2 hr train journey with 1 change. (B) Day 4 to Day 5,HIGH TATRA MTNS We take a train to Slovakia's breathtaking High Tatra Mountains. The rest of the time is free to take hikes in the spectacular surrounding scenery, or perhaps take a trip to see nearby Spis Castle or rural Zdiar on the Polish border. Approx 5 hrs train journey with 3 changes. (B) Day 6,BRNO We take the train to Brno. Afternoon to explore the old town centre, the Capuchin Monastery mummies or open air market. Approx 4 1/2 hr bus journey and 6 1/2 hr train journey with 2 changes. (B) Day 7 to Day 8,CESKY KRUMLOV Travel by train to Cesky Krumlov, possibly the most beautiful town in the Czech Republic. We have plenty of time to explore the beautiful palace or old town centre, hike in the surrounding hills or raft on the river. In the evening of Day 8 we take a train to Prague. (B) Day 9 to Day 10,PRAGUE We have two days in this beautiful city. Walk along the Charles Bridge with its selection of buskers and street artists, relax in a pavement cafe or climb a church spire for wonderful views over the terracotta rooftops of the city. On Day 10 we take an overnight train to Krakow. Approx 9 hour train journey. (B) Day 11,KRAKOW Arrive in Krakow where the rest of the day is free to explore. Perhaps take a trip to the Wieliczka salt mine or alternatively make a poignant visit to Auschwitz. Day 12,WARSAW - VILNIUS We take the train to Warsaw and have time to explore Poland's capital before taking an overnight bus to Vilnius. 3 hour train journey. 9 hour overnight bus ride. (B) Day 13,VILNIUS After arriving in Vilnius we have a walking tour of the delightful old town with its winding streets, narrow alleys and many old churches. The city boasts the largest old quarter in Europe which was constructed over many centuries and as a result is a unique hotchpotch of architectural styles. Day 14,KLAIPEDA After breakfast we take a train to Klaipeda, our base for visiting the Curonian Spit. 5 hour train journey. (B) Day 15,KLAIPEDA Today we have a guided tour of Curonian Spit, an enormous peninsula dominated by impressive sand dunes and forests, split between Russia and Lithuania and recognised by UNESCO as an area of outstanding natural beauty. (B) Day 16,RIGA Travel by bus to Riga in Latvia. 4 hours bus ride. (B) Day 17,RIGA We have a morning walking tour of Latvia's cosmopolitan capital city, with the afternoon free to explore further. There is plenty to occupy the eye, and it is easy to see why the old quarter has been recognised as a World Heritage site with a stunning collection of Art Nouveau architecture on offer. (B) Day 18,SIGULDA After breakfast we have a short bus ride to Sigulda, situated at the edge of a beautiful forested valley with many hiking trails. We have nearly a full day to enjoy the area. 1 hour bus journey. (B) Day 19,SIGULDA - TALLINN In the morning we have time to explore more in the nearby National Park. In the afternoon we transfer by bus to Tallinn. 1 hr return journey to Riga and then 4 1/2 hours bus journey. (B) Day 20,TALLINN Morning walking tour of the impressive old city. Later we board the overnight train to St Petersburg. (B) Day 21,ST PETERSBURG Today we have a guided tour of this awe inspiring city including the Hermitage and the Winter Palace. St Petersburg is home to some of the most splendid architecture in the world and is awash with stunning buildings, exceptional museums and opulent palaces. Its numerous canals and waterways have led it to be known as the ' Venice of the North'. Day 22 to Day 23,ST. PETERSBURG Free time in St Petersburg to explore the city's many treasures a?" you may wish to visit Peterhof (Peter the Great's palace) or take a tour on the canals, among many other options. On Day 23 we take the overnight train to Moscow. (B) Day 24,MOSCOW On arrival we enjoy a tour of the city, taking in the Kremlin, Red Square and Tretyakov Gallery. Day 25,MOSCOW Free day in Moscow to take in further highlights of this atmospheric city. Must see sights include the iconic Saint Basil's Cathedral, synonymous with Moscow's landscape. (B) Day 26,MOSCOW Tour ends after breakfast. (B)
Included
Group Size Max 15
Activities Extensive walking in towns, optional hiking in Tatra Mountains
Accommodation 21 nights tourist class hotels, 3 nights sleeper train, 1 night overnight bus
Transport Local and private transport - trains, buses
Airport Transfer To hotel day 1
Fully Escorted By Imaginative Traveller tour leader days 2-26
Meals As per itinerary. B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
Entrance Fees Included for all sites listed as part of the itinerary
Trip Reference: UTBM
