An Adventure in EuropeSpecially created for Jane Example and John ExampleItinerary PreviewPrague, Český Krumlov, and BudapestSeptember 01 – September 10, 2015

A Custom Itinerarydesigned by Go Real EuropeCopyright 2015

ITINERARY OVERVIEWMembers of the Travel Group: Jane Example and John Example1. This is only a summary of your trip! Full-length itineraries include destination information,travel directions, maps, pictures, tips, and other details.2. Select “Hotels” on your client dashboard to see hotel pictures and descriptions.

Pre-Paid Tours and Activities:• Vltava River Cruise and City Overviewfrom the Old Town Hall Tower• Guided Walking Tour of the Prague Cas-tle and the Royal Coronation Route

• Guided Walk in Český Krumlov• Best of Budapest: Half-Day WalkingTour of Highlights & Hidden Finds

Pre-Paid Transportation:• 2nd Class Train Tickets from ČeskýKrumlov to Budapest• Bus Tickets from Prague to ČeskýKrumlov• Public Transport Tickets for Prague andBudapest• Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel

• Private Transfer to the Bus Station inPrague• Shuttle Transfer from Český Krumlov tothe Linz Main Train Station• Private Transfer from the Budapest RailStation• Transfer to Budapest Airport by PrivateCar

Pre-Paid Hotels, including Daily Breakfast:• 4 nights in the (Hotel T.B.D.) in Prague• 1 night in the (Hotel T.B.D.) in ČeskýKrumlov

• 4 nights in the (Hotel T.B.D.) in Budapest

Travel Information included in your itinerary:• City Maps of Prague and Budapest• Point to point travel directions• Destination information & travel advice

• Free Skype calling to landlines world-wide, and to mobile phones in the U.S.and Canada

Total Trip Cost for AllTravelers: N/AePlease see payment detailsand travel conditions here.

ITINERARY CONTENTS1 September 01, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Arrival in Prague, Private Transfer to Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Self Guided Visit to Prague’s Old Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Vltava River Cruise and City Overview from the Old Town Hall Tower . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

2 September 02, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Guided Walking Tour of the Royal Route and Prague Castle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Self Guided Tour of Prague Castle, Hradčany, and Strahov Monastery . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Self Guided Tour of Prague’s Little Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

3 September 03, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Self Guided Tour of the Old Jewish Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Self Guided Tour of Prague’s New Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Concert or Other Cultural Event in Prague . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

4 September 04, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Self-Guided Excursion to Castle Karlštejn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Self Guided Stroll through the Fortress of Vyšehrad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

5 September 05, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Drop off at Na Knížecí Bus Station, and Departure from Prague . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Bus Trip from Prague to Český Krumlov . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Self-Arranged Taxi Transfer to Hotel in Český Krumlov . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Guided Walk through Český Krumlov . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Český Krumlov Castle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Self Guided Tour of Český Krumlov . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

6 September 06, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Shuttle Service from Český Krumlov to the Linz Main Rail Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Rail Journey from Linz, Austria to Budapest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Arrival in Budapest, Pickup from Rail Station, & Check into Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Self Guided Visit to Central Pest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

7 September 07, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Best of Budapest: Half-Day Walking Tour of Highlights & Hidden Finds . . . . . . . . . . . 16Self Guided Tour of the Castle District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Evening City-Lights River Cruise on the Danube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

8 September 08, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18Visit to the Széchenyi Baths, Városliget Park, the Budapest Zoo, & Heroes’ Square . . . . . 18Along Andrássy Avenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18Concert or Other Cultural Event in Budapest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

9 September 09, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Tour of the Hungarian Parliament Building and its Surroundings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Self Guided Excursion to Szentendre (St. Andrew) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Self Guided Visit to the Jewish Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

10 September 10, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Transfer to Budapest Airport by Private Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

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DAY 1Arrive Prague

September 01, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

Arrival in Prague, Private Transfer to HotelTo Be Determined

We will schedule a pick up for your flight’s arrival time. You will be metin the terminal by an English speaking driver holding a sign with yourname on it. Most of the drivers we use are ex-pats who will give yougood Prague tips during your ride to the hotel. The ride is for yourparty only - you will not be sharing a vehicle. The cost of the ride willbe included in your itinerary package.Included: Private Transfer to your hotel. Information on passportcontrol, customs, and other arrival info.

Self Guided Visit to Prague’s Old TownAfternoon

TOP SITES:OLD TOWNHALL & CLOCK TOWER, KARLOVA STREET, CHURCHOF OUR LADY OF TYNA visit to Old Town (Staré Město) transports you to an entirely dif-ferent era. A labyrinth of twisting cobblestone lanes and alleys sur-round Old Town Square, which has been Prague’s municipal centersince the Middle Ages. The Square is lined by magnificent churchesand imposing Renaissance palaces. Most notable are the Old TownHall, with its famed astronomical clock drawing large crowds at theturn of each hour, and the Tyn Church, with a multitude of spires thatseem to sprout like leaves from its towers. As you wander through theOld Town, you will discover numerous other delights, including severalbeautiful churches, a plentiful supply of cozy cafes and pubs, and anoutdoor market dating back to the Middle Ages. You could explorefor days in this charming district and still not uncover all of its hiddenwonders.Included:Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area.

Vltava River Cruise and City Overview from the OldTown Hall Tower5:00 - 6:30 PM

This tour begins with an ascent to the tower of the Prague Old TownHall by elevator. From there you will have a panoramic view of Prague’shistoric center. Your breath will be taken away as you admire the sightof the expansive Old Town Square below you and gaze down at the

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DAY 1Arrive Prague

September 01, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

surrounding red rooftops and the maze of tiny streets. The guide willorientate you to the city’s geography and give you a brief introductionto its history. After descending the tower the guide lead you on ahidden route through the courtyards of a former monastery to reachthe Charles Bridge. From there you will board a small boat for a shortcruise on the Vltava. There is perhaps no better way to get a true senseof Prague’s beauty than from a boat making its way down the VltavaRiver. Beautiful buildings crowd the river’s edge, a series of statelybridges cross it, and the imposing Prague castle and pretty forestedhills rise above it. As you enjoy a complimentary drink, you will havean opportunity to relax and soak it all in, appreciating magical Pragueat its grandest.Included: Guide services, entry and elevator tickets for Old TownHall Tower, short boat cruise in center of Prague (<1hr). Not Included:Long boat cruise, dinner cruise.

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DAY 2Prague

September 02, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

Guided Walking Tour of the Royal Route and PragueCastle9:30 - 12:30 PM

On this charming guided walk you will explore the Prague Castle, thelargest castle complex in all of Europe. To reach the castle you willtrace the Royal Coronation Route and cross the Charles Bridge, whose“speaking stones” reveal the amazing and often cruel history that hasoccurred there. You will pass through the enchanting Little Quarter,and take a tram up the hill to the nearly eleven hundred year old PragueCastle. Your tour will then take you through the castle courtyards andinto the dramatic St. Vitus Cathedral in the center of the castle complex.The tour ends up with a spectacular panoramic view of the city of ahundred spires.Included: 3-hour Private Guided Walking Tour, Entry into part of St.Vitus Cathedral. Not Included: Entry into the palace interior.

Self Guided Tour of Prague Castle, Hradčany, andStrahov MonasteryEarly Afternoon

TOP SITES: ST. VITUS CATHEDRAL, GOLDEN LANE, LOBKOWICZ PALACE,STRAHOV MONASTERY, LORETOPrague Castle is the most visited destination in Prague, and forgood reason. The castle’s history stretches back over a 1000 years,and it has served as the seat of government for Bohemian kings, HolyRoman Emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia. It is now the seatof government of the Czech Republic, so you will encounter militaryhonor guards rigidly standing guard at the castle entrances. The cas-tle sits impressively perched on a hill overlooking the city, providing abreathtaking and romantic view. The castle is actually an entire com-plex of palaces, churches, and fortifications representing almost everyarchitectural period of the last millennium, including the dramatic St.Vitus Cathedral, the historical seat of Prague’s archbishop. In the cas-tle’s surrounding neighborhood, known as Hradčany, you will discoverbeautiful gardens, a dazzlingly restored monastery, and more.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area.

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DAY 2Prague

September 02, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

Self Guided Tour of Prague’s Little QuarterLate Afternoon

TOP SITES: CHARLES BRIDGE, NERUDOVA STREET, ST. NICHOLAS CHURCH,WALLENSTEIN PALACE AND GARDENSThe Little Quarter is a quaint yet lively quarter of Prague tightlynestled on the slope and river bank beneath the Prague Castle. Whileit may be small, the Little Quarter played an important role in Prague’shistory. It is filled with the homes of medieval and renaissance nobilitywho wanted to live as closely as possible to the castle. Picturesqueside streets, beautiful churches, and impressive Baroque architectureall abound within the Little Quarter. The Little Quarter is connected tothe rest of the city by the Charles Bridge, the city’s most well-knownicon. No trip to Prague is complete without a visit to the bridge. Youwill also find the peaceful island of Kampa Park, which is a pleasantplace for a stroll and offers a great chance to take in a view of Praguefrom the river bank. Nearby, the Wallenstein Palace Gardens offer apeaceful yet fascinating retreat from the city bustle.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Amap marked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interestin the area.

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DAY 3Prague

September 03, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

Self Guided Tour of the Old Jewish QuarterMorning

TOP SITES: JEWISH CEMETERY, OLD-NEW SYNAGOGUE, SPANISH SYNA-GOGUE, CONVENT OF ST. AGNESSome of Prague’s earliest residents were Jewish, and their long his-tory in the city endowed it with a rich heritage of Jewish culture. Me-dieval church prohibitions against money-lending resulted in the Jewsplaying an important role in financing Bohemian kings and nobility, andthus an important role in the city’s economy. The Jewish ghetto, nowknown as the Jewish Quarter, was created in the twelfth century, asJews were forced by decree to live separately from Christians and closeto Old Town Square. Despite continued severe persecution, whichsometimes escalated to murderous mob attacks on the ghetto, theJewish community in Prague prospered over the long term. Sadly, onlya small minority of Prague’s Jews survived the Nazi occupation, andtoday’s Jewish community is only a shadow of its former self. They leftbehind, however, a lasting legacy for you to explore, including syna-gogues, architecture, and a fascinating cemetery.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area.

Self Guided Tour of Prague’s New TownAfternoon

TOP SITES: WENCESLAS SQUARE, MUNICIPAL HOUSE, SHOPPING ONNA PŘIKOPĚ STREETDespite being nearly 700 years old, the New Town (Nové Město)is the youngest of the original five independent towns that made upMedieval Prague. In one sense however, the New Town is new. In thelate 19th century much of the New Town was demolished and rebuilt,giving it a distinctly different look and feel than the Old Town. Today,the heart of New Town is still one of the three original central marketsaround which it was planned - Wenceslas Square (Vaclavské Náměstí).The square, which could also be described as a wide boulevard, isthe commercial center of Prague, and is busy nearly 24-hours a day.In the New Town you will find a great variety of shops, restaurants,nightspots, and pubs, as well as churches, cultural sites, museums. Youcan also visit one of the world’s most beautiful art-nouveau buildings -the Municipal House.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area.

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DAY 3Prague

September 03, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

Concert or Other Cultural Event in PragueEvening

A trip to a concert or other performance in the Czech Republic is a treaton many levels. Czech musicians, dancers, and actors are some of theworld’s best, and are the product of a long-lasting national obsessionwith the arts. In fact, prior to Czech independence, the arts were one ofthe only outlets available to express Czech national pride and identity,which is one reason why today Prague has more theater and concertseats per resident than any other city in the world. With so muchof the city’s pride and wealth poured into their concert venues, theexquisite details of the performance halls and foyers will make theexperience even more special and rewarding. A Prague concert guidewith information on choosing a performance and reserving tickets isprovided to Go Real Europe clients.Concert is not included. At your request, we can help you selecta performance and puchase tickets for you. A 4% transaction fee anda $17 USD booking fee is added to the cost of the tickets (applied pertravel party, not per person). In cases where the ticket must be pickedup at a ticket office in advance and mailed to you, there is an additional$50 fee.

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DAY 4Prague

September 04, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

Self-Guided Excursion to Castle KarlštejnMorning / Early Afternoon

Karlštejn, i.e. Charles’ Stone Castle, is the most famous castle in theCzech Republic. The fairy-tale perfect castle was founded by KingCharles IV in 1348 to guard his royal treasures. It’s massive towers andwalls are spread out over a series of rocky peaks above the BerounkaRiver and commands striking views of the surrounding hills. The castleis located about 45 minutes from Prague, and is reached by a train tripthrough a scenic river valley. From the train station you take a windingpath up a hill, which is lined by shops, restaurants, and stands sellingtraditional Czech snacks, making the trip to the castle half the fun.Included: Detailed travel directions for a stress free train trip toKarlštejn Castle. Not Included: Round trip train fare (about $8), tourof castle interior (about $8-16).

Self Guided Stroll through the Fortress of VyšehradLate Afternoon

The castle of Vyšehrad was the seat of Bohemia’s kings from the 11thto the 12th centuries. The castle was founded in the 900’s AD andholds a strategic position on a hill overlooking the Vltava River andthe city of Prague. Today its park-like grounds create a great place toget away from the crowds and experience Czech history in a naturalsetting. In the 17th century Vyšehrad became an important center forthe armies of the Habsburg Empire, and they built ramparts, walls, andgates around the fortress. Today walking along the ramparts affordswonderful views of the city and river, and you also have the option todescend beneath the ramparts to the huge cavernous halls were thetroops assembled. The fortress also contains a beautiful cemetery withan art-nouveau arcade. Many Czech national heroes are buried here,such as the composer Dvořák.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area.

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DAY 5Prague to Český Krumlov

September 05, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

Drop off at Na Knížecí Bus Station, and Departurefrom Prague8:10 AM

A car service will pick you up from the and deliver you to the Na Knížecíbus station, where you will catch your bus.Bus Trip from Prague to Český Krumlov

09:00 – 11:55 by Bus

Tickets and seat reservations will be included with the purchase of youritinerary for this approximately 3 hour trip on a comfortable, mod-ern bus. Detailed directions and instructions that make the trip easyand stress free will also be provided in your full itinerary. The busis equipped with bathroom and wi-fi internet access, and you will beoffered refreshments during the trip.Included: Bus tickets, seat reservations, and detailed directions fora stress free trip.

Self-Arranged Taxi Transfer to Hotel in ČeskýKrumlov11:55 AM

You will take a very short taxi ride to your hotel from the bus station.If you prefer you can also walk, most of our featured hotels are onlya short distance from the bus station. Details on how to call a taxiand how much to pay are provided with your full itinerary. Walkingdirections are also included for those who prefer to go by foot.Included: Information on ordering and taking a taxi. TAXI FARE IS

NOT INCLUDED.

Guided Walk through Český Krumlov1:30 - 3:00 PM

Thousands of tourists from around the world flock to Český Krumlovto wander its narrow cobblestone lanes, visit its beautiful castle, andadmire its splendid Medieval and Renaissance architecture. But mostof them leave without ever understanding the town’s rich historicalbackground or discovering its hidden secrets. With this tour you willavoid this sad fate and have a good time in the process. You’ll learnwhy there are dozens of five pedaled roses carved into buildings spread11

DAY 5Prague to Český Krumlov

September 05, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

throughout the town, hear local legends which still echo today, and visitoften missed sites such as the Renaissance town hall, the former townbrewery, and the old orphanage and hospital.Included: 90-minute Private Guided Walking Tour

Český Krumlov CastleLate Afternoon

Český Krumlov was ruled by the powerful Rožmberk family during theMiddle Ages and Renaissance periods. As rivals to the Czech King, theRožmberks wanted Český Krumlov to have a castle which could com-pete with Prague Castle in its magnificence, so they poured tremen-dous wealth and effort into building the castle. During their long res-idence in the castle they conducted major renovations in the Gothic,High Gothic, and Renaissance styles. The resulting structure still domi-nates Český Krumlov today.The castle progresses uphill through a se-ries of five beautifully decorated courtyards, with carvings, colorfulsgraffito decorations, and fountains. The castle’s perfectly preservedBaroque theater, built in 1767, is open for tours from May to October.With still intact stage machinery, backdrops, and sets, it offers a uniqueand wonderful glimpse into the world of the 18th century. While at thecastle you can also visit the resident bears who live in the moat (don’tworry, it’s a moat complete with trees and a swimming pool). Abovethe castle you will discover its beautiful gardens. Maybe the best partof a visit to the gardens is the walk up to them, as you are rewardedwith beautiful views of the town.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest in thearea. Not included: Tours within the castle interiors - approximately$10 USD.Note on winter closings: Castle interiors other than the CastleMuseum and Tower are closed from November to March, however thecastle courtyards can still be explored throughout the year.

Self Guided Tour of Český KrumlovEvening

Český Krumlov is the crown jewel of Southern Bohemia and its picture-perfect setting makes it a magnet for tourists and photographers fromaround the world. As the base of the powerful Rožmberk family fromthe 14th-16th centuries, it attracted great wealth, resulting in an abun-dance of medieval and Renaissance architecture delightfully huddledtogether between the twisting loops of the Vltava River. As rivals tothe Czech King, the Rožmberks wanted Český Krumlov to compare

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DAY 5Prague to Český Krumlov

September 05, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

with Prague in its magnificence. The five-petalled rose from their fam-ily crest can still be seen on buildings throughout the town. Krumlov’sbeauty is only enhanced by it setting amidst green hills and its stunningcastle perched on a rocky ledge above the town.Included:Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area.

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DAY 6Český Krumlov to Budapest

September 06, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

Shuttle Service from Český Krumlov to the Linz MainRail Station10:00 AM

A shuttle service will pick you up directly from your hotel and take youto the main train station in Linz, Austria (Linz Hbf). Your scenic journeyto Linz should take about an hour and a half. You will drive over thelow-lying yet impressive Šumava Mountains which separate the CzechRepublic and Austria. The train station in Linz is not very large, so thisdeparture time should give you plenty of time to catch the train.Included: Shuttle Transfer.

Rail Journey from Linz, Austria to Budapest12:15 – 16:49 by Rail

Tickets and seat reservations for this approximately four and a halfhour journey to Budapest are included with purchase of an itinerary.You will also receive detailed instructions for the voyage, as well as atranslation and explanation of your tickets. You can relax and enjoy thepleasant scenery, while reflecting on the fact that you are effortlesslypassing through a border which you would have risked your life tocross during the Cold War.Included: Tickets, seat reservations, and detailed travel informa-tion.

Arrival in Budapest, Pickup from Rail Station, &Check into Hotel4:49 PM

Upon your arrival in Budapest your driver will meet you on the plat-form. He will be carrying a sign with your name on it. The driver willdrop you off at your hotel. This is a private transfer. The price of thepickup is already included in your itinerary cost so you will not have topay the driver.Included:Cost of the private transfer to your hotel, Arrival informa-tion.

Self Guided Visit to Central PestEvening

TOP SITES: ST. STEPHEN’S BASILICA, GRESHAM PALACE, CHAIN BRIDGE14

DAY 6Český Krumlov to Budapest

September 06, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

In the year 1800, Pest was a sleepy little town of a few thousandpeople, still unconnected to the Buda side of the river by a perma-nent bridge. 100 years later, Buda and Pest had merged to becomeBudapest, and the majority of the city’s nearly one million residentscould be found in Pest. This period of rapid growth endowed Pest witha tremendous architectural legacy. Exploring central Pest today youwill encounter grand apartment houses, Secession-style architecturalgems, and imposing monumental buildings. Two of the focal pointsyou will see are the neo-classical St. Stephen’s Basilica, which dramat-ically rises above the surrounding city, and the nearby Chain Bridge,which regally spans the Danube. You can also make a stop in the fa-mous Café Gerbeaud, which may be the best spot in Budapest to relivethe elegant café culture of the old days.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area.

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DAY 7Budapest

September 07, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

Best of Budapest: Half-Day Walking Tour ofHighlights & Hidden Finds9:30 - 1:00 PM

Budapest is a city of nearly two million people, the capital of Hungary,a cultural and architectural Mecca, and the possessor of a long andstoried history. Considering all this, it would be difficult for even themost seasoned traveler to successfully discover all of Budapest’s tophighlights without the help of a knowledgeable local. On this half-dayguided walking tour the challenge is overcome, as your guide takes youto Budapest’s best destinations and provides the perfect introductionto the city.During your tour you will take in a gorgeous vista of the city fromthe Fisherman’s Bastion, explore the winding streets of the Castle Dis-trict, gaze in awe at the striking interior of St. Stephen’s Basilica, travelalong the city’s most elegant avenue with the help of Europe’s oldestsubway, and more. Along the way you will experience the city as a localdoes, stopping to check out intimate courtyards, enjoying a pastry (ortwo), and soaking in the ambience of Budapest’s most elegant cafes.Included: Private Guided Walking Tour.

Self Guided Tour of the Castle DistrictAfternoon

TOP SITES:MATTHIAS CHURCH, FISHERMAN’S BASTION, ROYAL PALACE,NATIONAL GALLERYThe historic Renaissance and Baroque architecture of Buda’s hilltopCastle District makes it feel like a quaint step back in time. Indeed, inthe little squares and narrow lanes of the Castle District you will findthe heart of historic Hungary. Numerous points in the Castle Districtalso provide breathtaking views over the Danube and the Pest sideof the city. Especially breathtaking is the view from the neo-GothicFishermans’ Bastion. The historic Buda old town shares the hill witha castle which has been home to the Hungarian Royal Palace sincethe late Middle Ages. The most glorious period of the castle’s historywas the reign of King Mátyás (1458-1490), who rebuilt the palace inthe Renaissance style and made it a center of European learning andculture. A stroll through the castle reveals imposing courtyards anddelightful statues and fountains. Also worthwhile is a visit to the superbHungarian National Gallery.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area.

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DAY 7Budapest

September 07, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

Evening City-Lights River Cruise on the DanubeEvening

In many ways, the Danube River defines Budapest. It divides themetropolis into two distinct city environments - Buda and Pest. It isalso spanned by a succession of beautiful bridges which are some ofthe city’s most well known landmarks. On the Pest side, a mix of 19thand 20th century buildings line the river bank, providing you with asense of the vibrancy lying beyond. The river also offers a perfectview of the neo-Gothic Parliament Building’s massive dome and flam-boyant spires and towers. On the Buda side, the dramatic Castle Hilllooms above, creating the perfect romantic backdrop to the watersof the river. An evening river cruise is a relaxing way to take in thesesights, as the brightly lit buildings cast their reflections on the waterand stately bridges pass overhead. A simple walk along the river prom-enade where the cruises depart also provides beautiful views, andwithout the cost of a boat ticket.Included: Cruise schedules and information on purchasing tickets,Travel directions to the boat docks. Cruise tickets are not included -tickets average about 10-20 EUR.

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DAY 8Budapest

September 08, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

Visit to the Széchenyi Baths, Városliget Park, theBudapest Zoo, & Heroes’ SquareMorning

TOP SITES: SZÉCHENYI BATHS, FINE ARTS MUSEUM, HEROES’ SQUARE,ZOO, VA JDAHUNYAD CASTLEBudapest is famous for its thermal baths fed by the city’s abun-dant supply of thermal springs and underground water. The SzéchenyiBaths are the largest and the most popular of all the city’s baths. Witheighteen indoor and outdoor pools and impressive neo-Baroque archi-tecture, the baths make for an unforgettable visit. You can even geta massage. The baths are located within the pleasant Városliget Park,which makes a wonderful location for a stroll after your bath. Withinthe park you will find the fascinating Vajdahunyad Castle, a complex ofbuildings created to represent Hungary’s historic architectural styles.Also within the park is Budapest’s delightful city zoo. Where the parkmeets Andrássy Avenue, you will discover Heroes’ Square, where a dra-matic group of monuments tells a 1,000-year tale of Hungarian historyin the form of towering statues of national heroes.Included: Detailed step-by-step instructions for visiting the baths.Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Map marked withattractions, restaurants, and other points of interest in the area. Not

Included: Cost of entry into the baths (about $20 a person).Along Andrássy Avenue

Afternoon

TOP SITES: STATE OPERA HOUSE, TERROR HOUSEAndrássy Avenue is Budapest’s most prominent street and a WorldHeritage Site since 2002. In fact, the avenue was considered so refinedand pleasant in the late 19th century that the city’s residents wouldn’tallow a streetcar line to be built on the avenue, even though it wasdesperately needed. To preserve the elegant atmosphere they insteadbuilt continental Europe’s first subway, which today provides an excel-lent means of exploring the avenue. The avenue is lined by imposingneo-Renaissance palaces and buildings, including several museums.This includes the superb House of Terror Museum, which focuses onthe horrors inflicted by totalitarian regimes in the 20th century. An-drassy Avenue is also the musical heart of Hungary, as the breathtak-ingly beautiful State Opera House is located on the avenue.Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area.

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DAY 8Budapest

September 08, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

Concert or Other Cultural Event in BudapestEvening

A trip to a concert or other performance in Hungary is a treat onmany levels. Hungarian musicians, dancers, and actors are some ofthe world’s best, and are the product of a long-lasting national obses-sion with the arts. Much of the city’s pride and wealth was devotedto building beautiful concert venues such as the State Opera House.The exquisite details of the performance halls and foyers will make theexperience even more special and rewarding.Concert is not included. At your request, we can help you selecta performance and puchase tickets for you. A 4% transaction fee anda $15 booking fee is added to the cost of the tickets (applied per travelparty, not per person).

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DAY 9Budapest

September 09, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

Tour of the Hungarian Parliament Building and itsSurroundingsMorning

TOP SITES: HUNGARIAN PARLIAMENT, ETHNOGRAPHICAL MUSEUMThe Hungarian Parliament building is a magnificent sight as it risesabove the waters of the Danube, and the interior is also quite jaw-dropping. As a visitor you may even feel a bit overwhelmed by thesumptuous décor and attention-to-detail. You could be forgiven forexpecting a queen to arrive or an aristocratic ball to break out at anymoment. Visits to the interior can be made on a guided tour, whereyou will see a spectacular grand staircase, the historic Holy Crown ofHungary, an imposing debating chamber, and much more.Included: Background information on the Parliament and tips onpurchasing tickets, a map of the area. Map marked with attractions,restaurants, and other points of interest in the area.Not Included: Entry into the Parliament - tours cost 4,000 Hun-garian Forints (about $20 USD).

Self Guided Excursion to Szentendre (St. Andrew)Afternoon

On this self-guided excursion you will travel by train to the little, cobble-stoned town of Szentendre, charmingly nestled alongside the DanubeRiver. Szentendre means St. Andrew in English, and the town is lo-cated only about ten miles north of Budapest, but with its idyllic villageatmosphere it could not be more different. Nearly every building inthe town dates back to the period of Baroque architecture, includingchurches, burgher townhouses, and pleasant courtyard homes typicalof the Hungarian countryside. The twisting lanes and riverbank prome-nade make Szentendre a perfectly pleasant locale to wander and soakin the ambiance. If you have the time, you can also visit a fascinatingopen air museum where you will see re-created traditional peasantvillages, providing an authentic opportunity to see and experience howthe Hungarian people once lived in the countryside.Included: Detailed travel directions and background informationfor a stress-free independent excursion to Szentendre. Not Included:Transportation (only about 5 EUR a person roundtrip by train), OptionalEntry into Sights

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DAY 9Budapest

September 09, 2015(Hotel T.B.D.)

Self Guided Visit to the Jewish QuarterEvening

TOP SITES: GREAT SYNAGOGUE & HOLOCAUST MEMORIALBudapest was once the site of one of Europe’s largest and mostvibrant Jewish communities and contains the world’s second largestsynagogue – the Dohány Street Synagogue (also known as the Grand orGreat Synagogue). In the late 19th century the city became known forits relative tolerance, and as the result Budapest’s Jews become highlyassimilated into the city’s population, making tremendous contribu-tions in literature, science, and other fields. Tragically, in the unsettledtimes of the 20th century conflict and prejudice reemerged in horriblefashion. In the Jewish Quarter, you can explore the contrasting legaciesof Jewish achievement and tragedy in Budapest. A visit to the GrandSynagogue is an impressive reminder of the wealth and influence theJewish community in Hungary once possessed. Although many Jewsemigrated after World War II, a small but vibrant Jewish population stillinhabits the Jewish Quarter today.Included:Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area. Not Included: Entry into the Great Synagogue

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DAY 10Depart Budapest

September 10, 2015

Transfer to Budapest Airport by Private CarTo Be Determined

A car service will pick you up from the (Hotel T.B.D.) and deliver you tothe Budapest Airport for your flight departure. This is a private transferjust for your travel party, and you will not need to pay the driver forthe transfer, as it is already included in the cost of the itinerary.Included: Private transfer by car to the Budapest Airport

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