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Eastern Bloc with Magnificent Europe

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Operated by APT
Tripcode: EUMCRE26
Overview
Destination:
Czech Republic
Netherlands
Start:Prague, Czech Republic
Finish:Amsterdam, Netherlands
Duration:26 days
Type:Group tour (max 45)
Style:
Cruise,
River Cruise,
River/Small ship/Barge,
Travel Period
May 2026 - September 2026
Prague → Amsterdam

Enter a world of contrasts, from fairytale Prague to modern-day Berlin. Venture into Poland and delve into the sobering history of World War II at Auschwitz. Visit the World Heritage-listed Wieliczka Salt Mine, then embark on a 14-night luxury river cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam.

Itinerary
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Day 1 - Arrive Prague

Welcome to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. Set around the Vltava River, Prague's architectural heritage and striking castle charm all who visit. We will meet you on arrival and transfer you to your hotel. Tonight, come together with your fellow travellers for a welcome reception.

Day 2 - Prague

This afternoon, take in outstanding city views from the magnificent Prague Castle, then stroll over the historic Charles Bridge, dating back to 1357. Marvel at the Old Town Square, once Prague’s central marketplace in medieval times. The highlight of the square is the old astronomical clock. Installed in 1410, the clock tracks the movements of the sun and the moon as well as the time. Tonight, dine at Alcron Restaurant, a contemporary fine dining establishment known for its use of local Czech produce. With a plant-forward philosophy, the restaurant showcases the region's rich culinary heritage with a modern twist.

Signature Experience – Chateau Jemniště

Savour a day out at Chateau Jemniště, originally designed by the renowned Czech architect, Frances Maxmilián Kaňka. Be greeted by descendants of the Czech Republic’s oldest aristocratic family before exploring the 18th century estate on a private guided tour. Admire the spectacular baroque architecture and indulge in a delicious lunch before watching impressive birds of prey fly free during an incredible falconry display.  

Day 3 - Prague, Dresden, Berlin

Travel to Germany and venture to the Dresden Elbe Valley. Visit Volkswagen’s impressive Transparent Factory in Dresden, where you can watch the assembly process of electric vehicles. Set in a stunning, modern, glass-walled building, this production site has become a key landmark of the city. Continue to Berlin for dinner.  

Day 4 - Berlin

Embark on a fascinating discovery of Berlin, where you'll visit the famous Brandenburg Gate, as well as Checkpoint Charlie and the legendary museum dedicated to the former border crossing.

Day 5 - Berlin, Potsdam

After this morning’s chosen activity, take an excursion to Potsdam, once the residence of Prussian kings. Here, you’ll enjoy a tour of the former summer palace of Frederick the Great, Sanssouci. The evening is yours at leisure.   

Freedom of Choice – Spree River Boat Ride 

Embark on a charming boat ride along the Spree River, sipping on mulled wine as you glide by some of the German capital’s greatest sites in comfort and style. Pass by iconic landmarks, including Bellevue Palace, Reichstag, Museum Island, Berlin Cathedral and Schlossplatz City Palace. Winding through the heart of Berlin, this impressive river spans across a total length of 400km.

Freedom of Choice – Artist District Visit 

Discover a different side of Berlin with a visit to the one-of-a-kind artist district. Stroll through small streets and renovated courtyards, which was once the centre of Jewish life in Berlin. On your route, you will encounter traces of the eventful past of this former ‘tolerance district’, in which people of different religions lived peacefully together. 

Day 6 - Berlin, Warsaw

Travel into Poland and arrive in Warsaw. Enjoy dinner at a Polish inn, featuring classic cuisine alongside live folk music. 

Day 7 - Warsaw

Gain a glimpse into the impact World War II had on the city of Warsaw and its people during a walking discovery today. Visit the site of the Jewish Ghetto before heading to Łazienki Park, where you’ll keep an eye out for the unique birdlife that surrounds Łazienki Palace.

Later, relish a musical celebration of locally born composer Frédéric Chopin during a concert performance of his famous work. Hosted in Fryderyk Concert Hall, celebrate Chopin's legacy as you listen to his heartfelt melodies. 

Day 8 - Warsaw, Auschwitz, Kraków

Today in Auschwitz, visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum for a tour revealing the sobering history of the concentration camp, as well as a walk through the grounds. Later, travel to Kraków, where you will have dinner.

Day 9 - Kraków

Today, set out on your chosen sightseeing activity. The evening is yours to check out the local dining scene or relax at your hotel.

Freedom of Choice – Kraków Walking Tour 

Set out on a walking exploration and take in the key sights of Kraków, including the 13th-century main square. Stroll through the city, one of the key centres of Polish academic, cultural and artistic life, and discover its striking Gothic and Renaissance architecture.

Freedom of Choice – Polish Cooking Class 

Learn how to make authentic Polish food, such as pierogis, with a local cook as you uncover the secrets to this tasty cuisine. Discover the fresh ingredients and intricate methods it takes to prepare these traditional dishes. Sample your efforts over lunch. 

Day 10 - Kraków, Wieliczka Salt Mine, Tatra Mountains

Gain an insight into over 700 years of European mining history with a visit to the World Heritage-listed Wieliczka Salt Mine. Be amazed by the underground passageways that began operating in the 13th century. Afterwards, discover the dramatic alpine scenery of the High Tatras before arriving at your historic hotel, nestled amid grand mountains and set on the shores of Lake Štrbské Pleso.

Day 11 - Tatra Mountains

This morning, head to a local organic farm for a cheese tasting. The afternoon is at your leisure to enjoy time at your hotel. Perhaps visit the spa, which offers breathtaking views of the High Tatra Mountains, or take a leisurely walk around the glacial lake of Štrbské Pleso. This evening, gather for a farewell dinner.

 

Day 12 - Tatra Mountains, Budapest, Embark Ship

Travel to Budapest and board your luxury river ship to begin your Magnificent Europe cruise.

Day 13 - Budapest

Choose your sightseeing option in Budapest today. This afternoon, your ship will begin cruising towards Vienna.

Freedom of Choice – City Tour

Enjoy a morning city tour of Budapest, exploring historic monuments like Heroes’ Square and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Freedom of Choice – Culinary Tour

Eat your way through Budapest as you embark on a tour of the Great Market Hall. Wander through this large indoor market and discover a variety of sausages, meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables.

Freedom of Choice – Funicular Ride 

Board a funicular to Castle Hill for superb views, then walk to Fisherman’s Bastion.  

Day 14 - Vienna

Enjoy a relaxing morning cruising to Vienna. On arrival, take in the city’s many landmarks along the Ringstrasse, as well as St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Day 15 - Vienna

Set out on your chosen sightseeing activity this morning. In the evening, an unforgettable Signature Experience awaits.

Freedom of Choice – Schönbrunn Palace Visit

Tour inside Schönbrunn Palace, the summer palace of the Habsburgs. Discover the apartments of former emperors and take some time to wander the immaculate grounds.   

Freedom of Choice – Visit Bratislava in Slovakia

Tick another country off your list and journey to Slovakia’s Bratislava, where a mixture of 18th-century rococo design and communist era architecture make this a city of alluring contrasts. See some of the architectural landmarks that were built during the city’s time under communist rule. These include the UFO bridge, Slovak Radio building and Hotel Kyjev.   

Freedom of Choice – Vienna Culinary Tour

Immerse yourself in Viennese cuisine on a culinary tour of Vienna's narrow streets. Visit a traditional cafe, try a classic Viennese sausage, and sample a sweet treat from one of the city's famous patisseries.

Signature Experience – Cocktail Party and Private Performance at Vienna’s City Palace

After dinner, head to the princely family of Liechtenstein’s City Palace in the heart of Vienna, where we have arranged an exclusive cocktail party and private recital, just for you. A full orchestra will perform classical masterpieces by Mozart and Strauss. You will also be enchanted by an operatic performance.

Day 16 - Dürnstein, Melk

Explore the beautiful town of Dürnstein before choosing your activity.  Later, visit Melk Abbey.

Freedom of Choice – Cruise Through the Wachau Valley

Cruise through the Wachau Valley to Melk. Admire stunning landscapes dotted with vineyards, charming villages and historic castles nestled amid lush hills.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride from Dürnstein to Melk

Take a guided bike ride along the Danube River from Dürnstein to Melk, and take in the scenery of the picturesque Wachau Valley.

Day 17 - Linz, Salzburg, Passau

Take a guided tour of Salzburg before a Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Gaisberg Mountain Lunch and ‘Sound of Music’ Show

Be welcomed by a Jagdhornbläser – a hunting horn blower – into a rustic, traditional restaurant on the Gaisberg mountain overlooking Salzburg. Enjoy a welcome drink as you soak in the scenery before savouring a delicious lunch, followed by a show featuring music from the classic film, ‘The Sound of Music’.

Day 18 - Regensburg

Enjoy the chance to personalise your day with a choice of sightseeing activities on offer.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Tour of Regensburg’s World Heritage-Listed City Centre

Explore Regensburg's World Heritage-listed city centre on a guided tour. With a history dating back to the Roman times, this incredible city was the first capital of Bavaria. Your tour will finish with a tasting at Regensburg’s historic sausage kitchen, thought to be one of the oldest working restaurants in the world.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride to the Walhalla Memorial

Set out on a guided bike ride to the Walhalla memorial. This neo-classical building sits above the Danube River and houses a hall of fame that honours notable politicians, artists, sovereigns and scientists from Germany’s past.

Day 19 - Nuremberg

This morning, continue cruising along the Main-Danube Canal while indulging in a Bavarian beer, sausage and pretzel tasting on the Daystar Deck. Having taken 32 years to construct, the canal links the North and Black seas. On arrival in Nuremberg, set out on your preferred activity.

Freedom of Choice – Discover Nuremberg’s World War II Sites

Journey through Nuremberg’s World War II sites, including the Reich Party Rally Grounds, the site of Hitler’s now infamous annual rallies that were held from 1927 to 1938.

Freedom of Choice – Medieval History of Nuremberg Tour

Join a tour focused on Nuremberg’s medieval history. Discover medieval architecture, including the 900-year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle, the main market square and its 14th-century Gothic church.

Day 20 - Bamberg

Arrive in World Heritage-listed Bamberg, one of the few German cities that wasn’t destroyed during World War II. As you explore the Old Town with a guide, you will discover a range of historic churches and buildings, including the town hall on the Regnitz River. Otherwise, take it easy and relax on board.

Day 21 - Würzburg

Today unfolds on your terms thanks to a choice of activities today.

Freedom of Choice – Visit the Würzburg Residence

The immense architectural beauty of Würzburg is on display today as you stroll through this fascinating city to the Würzburg Residence. An 18th-century palace that once belonged to the Prince-Bishops of Würzburg, this regal building is home to a number of historic wonders. Inside, you’ll marvel at the intricate tapestries, gilded stucco work and ceiling frescoes by famed Tiepolo.

Freedom of Choice – Explore Rothenburg

Travel to the walled town of Rothenburg and immerse yourself in medieval life. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the colourful houses as you stroll. During free time, you may wish to visit Käthe Wohlfahrt’s ‘Christmas Village’, where you’ll find the largest collection of German Christmas decorations in the world.

Freedom of Choice – Hike to Marienberg Fortress

Enjoy a hike to Würzburg’s most visible landmark, Marienberg Forstress, an imposing castle overlooking the city, which boasts a fascinating history dating back many centuries.

Freedom of Choice – Tastes of Franconia

Travel to the Volkacher Mainschleife, the largest wine-growing region in Franconia and home to one of the most famous Franconian whisky distilleries. Here, enjoy a guided tour and meet the whisky and winemaker to uncover the art of making whisky. Savour a tasting of their finest creations paired with freshly baked bread from a local bakery.

Day 22 - Miltenberg

Step ashore in Miltenberg today and set out on your chosen sightseeing activity. Spared from the destruction of World War II, the town is much like a time capsule, revealing what old-world village life was like in Germany before the war.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Walking Tour and Liqueur Tasting

Embark on a guided exploration of Miltenberg. Discover the town's remarkably preserved buildings and lively squares, offering a unique glimpse into Germany’s rich history. Then, visit one of Franconia's oldest wine cellars for a tasting of local liqueurs.

Freedom of Choice – Local Monastery Visit

Travel to the hills overlooking Miltenberg for a visit to a local monastery. Here, you'll meet with a Franciscan friar to hear about life in the monastery. You'll also sample some homemade sausages, cheese and bread before free time to wander through the gardens and vineyard.

Day 23 - Rüdesheim

Dock in Rüdesheim this morning, one of Germany’s most revered cultural and historic cities. Here, embark on your chosen activity. This afternoon, you’ll approach what is known as the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine River. Glide past crumbling ruins that cling to rocky cliffs and rolling hillsides marked with perfectly planted vineyards.

Freedom of Choice – Gondola Ride

Glide over the emerald vineyards of the Rhine Valley in a gondola, enjoying stunning vistas. At the top, arrive at the Niederwald Monument, commemorating the unification of Germany in 1871.

Freedom of Choice – Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum

Take a tour of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. This eccentric and unique museum is home to a beautiful collection of fascinating automated musical instruments from all stages of history.

Freedom of Choice – Visit a Historic Wine Cellar

Visit a historic wine cellar for a tasting of Rhine Valley wines. Discover why this location is one of Germany’s most well-known wine regions.

Day 24 - Andernach

Today, enjoy an exclusive Signature Experience. The afternoon will be spent cruising onwards to the Netherlands.

Signature Experience – Namedy Castle

Princess Heide von Hohenzollern graciously welcomes APT guests into her home, Namedy Castle, a 14th century residence set near the Rhine River in Germany. Go beyond the gates and wander about the rooms, hidden nooks and manicured grounds. You’ll then enjoy a morning tea, where a pianist playing classical music sets the mood.

Day 25 - Amsterdam

Arrive in Amsterdam and set out on your chosen activity. This evening, savour fresh, locally sourced oysters with regional sparkling wine.

Freedom of Choice – Glass-Top Boat Canal Cruise

A peaceful way to see the best of Amsterdam, board a glass-top boat and admire the city’s unique architecture as you cruise the maze of World Heritage-listed canals for which the city is famous.

Freedom of Choice – Cheese Tasting

Visit a local cheese store for a tasting of regional cheeses. The Netherlands is renowned for its cheese production, including iconic varieties such as Edam and Gouda.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride

Join a guided bike ride through the countryside to the village of Durgerdam before visiting the Street Art Museum.

Freedom of Choice – Keukenhof Gardens in Spring

On select spring departures, you also have the option to visit Keukenhof Gardens. Explore more than 70 acres of world-renowned gardens and admire the spectacular display of more than seven million flowering bulbs in bloom, including colourful tulips.

Day 26 - Disembark Ship, Depart Amsterdam

Your spectacular journey comes to an end today. Following breakfast, say goodbye and be transferred to the airport.

Departure dates

Select your preferred date or enquire

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Travellers

Operator
APT

APT Luxury Travel offers all-inclusive, all taken care of and all-inspiring luxury cruises, tours and rail journeys. As Australia’s largest family-owned tour and cruise company, we are committed to delivering unforgettable travel experiences to our valued guests. What began as just a vision, over 90 years ago, has now grown into a proud global business, demonstrating the power of dreaming fully.

Important Information
*Terms and conditions
Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. For more information, please see Terms of Use
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