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EASTERN EUROPE PACKAGES2014 – 2015

The Grand UNESCO Tour of Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria

20 days /19 nightsStarting from

EUR 3.855,00 per person / in double room – hotels 4*

EUR 3529,00 per person / in double room – hotels 3*

On this guided tour we will explore the UNESCO Monuments of Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria. In each location a local driver guide will introduce you to their homeland and take you to the countries most important sights and cities.

While in Budapest you will spend the majority of the time in the city with excursions to the surrounding area. The first day will be to get acquainted

with the city on a half day sightseeing tour, visiting the Parliament Palace. Then the next few days we will explore the area, going to such tourist regions as Lake Balaton, Danube Bend, see the Puszta horse-show of the Hungarian Plain..

Then we will move onto Romania to discover this unique and diverse country. Included on this portion will be the 3 main tourist regions; Maramures, Bucovina and Transylvania. Each region has its own traditions and culture specific to their areas. In Maramures the culture

has changed very little in the past 100 years and the traditions are still practiced today. Explore the ancient wooden churches, gates and historic villages that make Maramures so special. After we continue to Bucovina to see the famous Painted Monasteries created by Stephen the Great. Then onto Transylvania; land of amazing medieval towns, castles and the legend of Dracula. And before moving onto to Bulgaria we will spend a night in Bucharest.

In Bulgaria we continue to explore the UNESCO monuments of this corner of Europe. The first stop is Veliko Tarnovo, which is the historic capital of Bulgaria during the medieval ages. Here we will see the magnificent citadel on Tsarevets Hill. Before reaching Sofia we will make stops in other important sights, such as the Thracian tomb in Kazanlak, Plovdiv, Rila Monastery and more.

his tour is customizable and can be adjusted upon your request. ".

Itinerary:Day 1:ROUTING: BUDAPEST- Upon arrival your private driver will transfer you to your hotel- Check in hotel- Folklore show with dinner- Return in the evening- Overnight in Budapest

Day 2:ROUTING: BUDAPEST- Breakfast in the hotel.- 3-hour-long city tour and Parliament visit. Erzsebet Square, Opera House, Heroes Square/Millenium Memorial (photostop), downtown, Erzsebet Bridge, panorama view to the banks of the River Danube with famous public buildings, panorama view from Gellert Hill (photostop), walk in the Castle district, Matthias Church (outside), Fishermen Bastion, panorama view to the city, Margit Bridge.- Visit the House of Parliament: first outside then inside the impressive building with its magnificent neogothic chambers and staircases, the home of the Hungarian Holy Crown. The program ends in front of the House of Parliament. (Note: this tour maybe changed to a city tour by boat, inquire for details)- Rest of the day at your leisure- Overnight in Budapest

Day 3:ROUTING: BUDAPEST - LAKE BALATON - BUDAPEST- Breakfast in the hotel.- Lake Balaton - Herend. Starting from Erzsebet square this is an excursion to the Herend porcelain art that is famous throughout Europe. After a guided tour in the world largest porcelain manufactory (founded in 1826), coffee-break in the Porcelanium. Shopping, then drive to Lake Balaton and enjoy the beautiful nature of Tihany Peninsula. Visit the Abbey that was founded in 1051. 3-course-lunch with wine in a csarda. Drive to Balatonfured, walk round the nice spa-centre. The tour ends in Budapest city centre.- Rest of the day at your leisure- Overnight in Budapest

Day 4:ROUTING: BUDAPEST - ESZTERGOM - VISEGRAD - SZENTENDRE - BUDAPEST- Breakfast in the hotel.- Danube Bend tour: Esztergom-Visegrad-Szentendre (9 - 10 hours approx.). Starting from Erzsebet square visit three towns of archbishops, kings and artists. Esztergom: the oldest Hungarian Royal Residence and ecclesiastic centre. Visit the Basilica. Visegrad: unique panorama view from the Citadel and 3-course-lunch with wine in a nice restaurant. Szentendre: walk round the Mediterranean-like town then visit the Caprice Hungarian jewellery museum including multimedia presentation, factory visit and jewellery exhibition. The tour ends in Budapest city centre. - Overnight in Budapest

Day 5:ROUTING: BUDAPEST - SZENTENDRE - BUDAPEST- Breakfast in the hotel.- Tour to the Romantic SzentendreSzentendre is located along the River Danube with hills in the background attracts residents and visitors for ages. Thanks to the Serb refugees settled here in the last centuries still retains the Mediterranean townscape, Orthodox churches and Cyrillic-inscribed monuments. The town's baroque appearance has been preserved. Artists discovered this picturesque village in the 1920s and turned it into an art colony. Visit the unique museums of the town: Margit Ceramic Museum and Marcipan Museum. A cup of coffee and biscuits will be offered in a nice confectionery. Free time for shopping.- Rest of the day at your leisure- Overnight in Budapest

Day 6:ROUTING: BUDAPEST - PUSZTA - BUDAPEST- Breakfast in the hotel.- 09:00AM: The romantic Hungarian Plain/Puszta horse-show (8 hours approx.). Starting from Erzsebet square this is an excursion to the Hungarian Puszta. The program starts with a short walk in Kecskemet, in the so-called Famous Town. Then journey to a farm in the Puszta. Stud-farm visit, horse-show and carriage drive. Typical Hungarian 3-course-lunch with wine and gipsy music in a Csarda. The tour ends in Budapest city centre- Rest of the day at your leisure- Overnight in Budapest

Day 7:ROUTING: BUDAPEST - CLUJ-NAPOCA

- Breakfast- Take a train to Cluj, - Upon arrival to Cluj your English-speaking driver/guide will pick you up from the train station- Overnight in Cluj

Day 8:ROUTING: CLUJ-NAPOCA - CAVNIC- Breakfast- Tour of Cluj-Napoca; one of the oldest cities from Romania, its origins came fron the ancient times of Roman Empire when the city was named "Napoca". Visit the center of the city with the St Michael's Cathedral, The Orthodox Cathedral, Romanian Opera, Born House of Matei Corvin (Mathias Corvinus) the former king of Hungary, the "Cetăţuia" with its wonderful panorama of the city.- Depart to Cavnic (approx 2 hours)- Overnight

Day 9:ROUTING: CAVNIC - BAIA MARE - DESESTI - SIGHET - VISEU- Breakfast.- Depart from Cluj to the north to visit Maramures County, the land of traditions and wooden churches.- First stop at Desesti in order to visit the local wodden church (UNESCO). Than go to Sapanta and visit the famous Merry Cemetery, truly one of the most unique sites in Europe. It is famous for its colourful tombstones with native paintings describing, in an original and poetic manner, the persons that are buried there as well as scenes from their lives. The Merry Cemetery became an open-air museum and a national tourist attraction.- Next we are to The Birsana church , built in 1720 , listed on UNESCO Heritage List , with the florid paintings , the best in Maramures and the Barsana Monastery (UNESCO ) a large monastic complex comprising of several wooden buildings, all constructed in the local style , including the wooden church . The Gate Tower is the higher wooden building from Europe. - At Ieud we can visit the oldest wodden church made in to the 14-een century (UNESCO). Don’t miss the The Maramures’s Woman Museum from Dragomiresti, where you can learn about maramuresean traditions and way of live.- Overnight in Viseu

Day 10: ROUTING: VISEU/BORSA - MOLDOVITA - HUMOR - VORONET / GURA HUMORULUI- Breakfast- Today we’ll visit some of the World famous Painted Monasteries- Sucevita : the last and the most magnificent monastic achievement among

the painted monasteries in Bucovina , looks as a real fortress, with towers, buttresses and watch roads. Built in 1581, by one bishop, it was dedicated to the Assumption in 1584. Paintings of the Sucevita monastery were best preserved both on the outside and on the inside( Ladder of Virtue, the last Judgment, the tree of Jesse,) - Moldovita (UNESCO): dates back from 1532 and is due to the ruling prince Petru Rares It has the aspect of a fortress, with imposing towers and high, thick walls. The church has a three-cusped plan, as well as an open porch. It Is decorated with scenes from the 16th c Moldavian life. You can see here the best preserved frescoes, with fresh and vivid colors- Humor (UNESCO) : dates from 1530, this monastery was among the first churches to be painted , the frescoes were painted in 1535. Humor is painted in reddish brown ( from oriental madder pigment), colors are brilliant and truthful to nature- Overnight in Gura Humorului or Vornet

Day 11:ROUTING: VORONET/GURA HUMORULUI - TARGU NEAMT - BRASOV- Breakfast. - Starting the day with a visit at Voronet Monastery and than depart to Brasov stoping on the route for visits at Neamt Monastery and Neamt Citadel.- Voronet Monastery (UNESCO) : founded in 1488 by Stephen the Great . It is the most accomplished sample of artistic achievement in Moldavian architecture and painting . The doors of the porch have a Renaissance framing, whereas the stone carvings of the broken arches at the doors and windows belong to the Gothic style. Voronet Monastery had been dubbed the oriental Sistine Chapel , whereas Voronet Blue , a color obtained from lapis lazuli, entered in the lexicon of art alongside Titian red and Veronese green, and to this day has yet to be reproduced by natural means.- Neamt Monastery, one of the oldest and most important of its kind in Romania. It was built in 14th century, and it is an example of medieval moldavian architecture. - Arrive in Brasov in the evening.- Overnight in Brasov

Day 12:ROUTING: BRASOV - SINAIA - BRAN - RASNOV - BRASOV-Breakfast.- Today we will explore the region of castles and citadels.- First stop at Sinaia and visit the Peles Castle, former summer residence of the kings of Romania, the Peles Castle is 44 kilometres far from Brasov, in Sinaia, a well-known mountain resort as well. Nowadays the Castle is one of the most important museums in Transylvania where one can admire furniture and

ornamental objects, carpets, tapestry, sculptures, paintings, collections of weapons from the 15th up to the19th centuries.- Continuing the journey to Bran and visit the famous Bran Castle. Also called Dracula`s Castle, it is situated not far from Brasov (25 kilometres) at the entrance in the Bran - Rucar passage. The castle got its fame from Dracula`s legend written in 1897 by Bram Stoker and later on made into a film by Francis Ford Coppola.. The first documents about the Bran Castle appeared in 1377. Along the history, the Castle had a strategic mission being the border between Transylvania and Wallachia. First it was under the rule of the King of Hungary Sigismund of Luxemburg, of the Romanian voievodes Mircea cel Batran and Vlad Tepes and later on it came under the jurisdiction of the City of Brasov. In the XX century the castle was donated to the royal family and becamed a royal residence. The museum preserve the furniture and objects from that period.- Last stop at Rasnov Fortress. Built in 1331, the Fortress had a defence role and it was a shelter for the inhabitants of Rasnov in case of enemy attacks.In the middle of the courtyard there is a well 146 metres deep and the ruins of an 11th - 12th century - Orthodox church were discovered here. Nowadays the Fortress houses an interesting museum- Return to hotel- Overnight in Brasov

Day 13:ROUTING: BRASOV - PREJMER - SIGHISOARA - SIBIU- Breakfast- Begin our day with a short tour of the magic medieval center of Brasov (2 hours) - Concil Square, Black Church, White and Black Towers, Weaver’s Bastion and Ecaterina’s Gate. - Then we go to Preajmer a village near Brasov for a visit at the Prejmer fortified church - the biggest fortress of its kind from East Europe built in the 14th century. The fortress has double walls and dungeons. Inside its walls there is a church, but the interesting thing here is the honeycomb like inner wall. Every family had one small room for sheltering in case the village was attacked.- Then onto Sighisoara (UNESCO), also caled "The Pearl of Transylvania" a wonderful medieval city where you can stil enjoy the medieval atmosphere. Short walking in Sighisoara and visits at Clock Tower and History Museum, Birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, Covered Stairs, Church on the Hill, etc..- End the day in Sibiu

Day 14:ROUTING: SIBIU - COZIA - HOREZU - BUCHAREST- Breakfast.- In the morning visit the Old Center of Sibiu. Sibiu was the European Capital of Culture in 2007. The Big Square, the Small Square, the Ursuline Church, The Franciscan Church, The staircase Tower, the Tanners Tower, the Lier’s Bridge , the House of the Butcher’s Guild and Bruckenthal Museum are the most important sights.- Leaving Sibiu we’ll cross Carpathians Mountains through the beautiful Olt River Valley. One can admire the amazing landscapes of the mountains.- In our way a stop for a visit at Cozia Monastery, which is set in one of the

most picturesque of the many carpathian landscapes which are the pride of Oltenia, this immense repository of such monuments.- Than after a short detour to visit the Monastery of Horezu was founded in 1690 by Prince Constantin Brâncoveanu in the town of Horezu, Wallachia, Romania. It is considered to be a masterpiece of "Brâncovean" style, known for its architectural purity and balance, the richness of its sculpted detail, its treatment of religious compositions, its votive portraits, and its painted decorative works. The town of Horezu is well known for its people who make pottery and present it at an annual fair. There are special traditions which have been well preserved .- End the day in Bucharest.- OvernightDay 15:ROUTING: BUCHAREST - GIURGIU (BULGARIAN BORDER) - VELIKO TURNOVO- Breakfast in Hotel- In the morning a panoramic tour of Bucharest the capital of Romania. Highlights: Village Museum, Peasant Museum, Parliament Palace – the second largest building from the world, Royal Palace, Revolutin Square, Historical center.- Then transfer to Bulgarian Border where you will meet the Bulgarian guide.- Pick up at Giurgiu – Romanian side of the border approx. at 1 p.m. - Cross the border to Bulgaria- Drive to the Rock monasteries by Ivanovo, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List- Check-in hotel- Overnight.

Day 16: ROUTING: VELIKO TURNOVO- Breakfast- After breakfast – sightseeing of Veliko Turnovo - the ancient capital of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom (12th -14th C.), picturesquely situated on the hills at the banks of the meandering river Jantra. Visit of the medieval fortress of Tsarevets hill and of Samovodska charshiya - handy craft street.- Sightseeing of Arbanassi – 17th C. fortified village with entrance to Konstanzaliev’s house (17th C.) and Jesus Christ’s Nativity Church which interior is covered in frescos depicting 2000 scenes.- Overnight

Day 17: ROUTING: VELIKO TURNOVO - SHIPKA - PLOVDIV- Breakfast- Drive to Plovdiv via Shipka Pass. - Visit to the Shipka Memorial church with golden domes. - Visit to the Thracian tomb in Kazanlak, UNESCO World Heritage monument - Arrival in Plovdiv in the afternoon. Walking in the old part of the town with beautiful old houses from the Bulgarian Revival period (18th – 19th C.). - Entrance to the St. Konstantin and Elena church and to the Roman Theatre.- Overnight at hotel in Plovdiv.

Day 18: ROUTING: PLOVDIV - RILA - SOFIA- Breakfast- Departure to Rila Monastery across the magnificent nature of the Rila and Rhodope Mountains.- Stop at winter resort Borovets. - Visit of the largest and one of the oldest Bulgarian monasteries (10th C.), included in the UNESCO World Heritage List with medieval defense tower from the 14th C. and fine frescoes.- Departure to the capital Sofia. Overnight at hotel in Sofia. - Overnight in Sofia

Day 19: ROUTING: SOFIA- Breakfast- Sightseeing on foot of the capital town – St. Sofia statue, St. Petka church, St. George Rotunda, Ruins of Serdica, National Theater, Russian church, Al. Nevski Cathedral and St. Sofia church. - Continue the sightseeing of Sofia – entrance to Boyana Church (UNESCO site) and National History museum or trip to Vitosha Mountain. Overnight as the same hotel.- Overnight in Sofia

Day 20: ROUTING: SOFIA- Breakfast- Transfer to the airport and the final good-bye

End of tour services

The Tour Includes:- 19 nights accommodation in Hotels/Guesthouses - Breakfast daily, except on the day of arrival- Folklore show with dinner - 3-hour-long city coach tour and Parliament visit- Half day excursion to Szentendre- Full day excursion to Lake Balaton - Herend (Lunch included with group version)- Full day excursion to Danube Bend tour (Lunch included with group version)- Full day excursion to The romantic Hungarian Plain/Puszta horse-show (Lunch included with group version)- Train ticket from Budapest to Cluj-Napoca- English-Speaking Local driver/guide for the duration of your tour in Romania (Days 7 to 15)

- English-Speaking driver and local guide for the duration of your tour in Bulgaria (Days 15 to 20)- Local taxes

Tour of Southern East Europe




This tour combines the countries of Hungary, Serbia, Romania, Moldova and Bulgaria. Starting from Budapest with daily tours to the Danube Bend, Godollo and the Parliament Palace. From here we go to Serbia and its capital, Belgrade. Continuing to Romania and exploring its cultural diverse regions; Transylvania, Maramures and Bucovina. Including an overnight excursion to Chisinau in the Moldova Republic. Finally ending in the ancient country of Bulgaria. For more details see the itinerary below...

Day 1:ROUTING: BUDAPEST- Arriving on Budapest International Airport.- Transfer to the hotel. Free time by your own or you can chose one of our optional add-ons.- Overnight in Budapest

Day 2:ROUTING: BUDAPEST- After breakfast join a City Tour of Budapest. Starting from the Chain Bridge, we cross over to Buda and stop in the Castle District (Matthias Church and Fishermen’s Bastion). We then take you all the way up to the Gellért Hill (Citadel) to show you the most spectacular view of Budapest. Next, we go back to Pest and drive through the downtown (Central Market Hall, Synagogue), all the way to the Heroes’

Square (City Park). We then take the Andrássy Avenue (Unesco) pass by the Opera House and the St Stephen’s Basilica and stop at the impressive House of Parliament (interior visit). The Tour ends in the city centre.- Overnight in Budapest

Day 3:ROUTING: DANUBE BEND TOUR- After breakfast join the Danube Bend - an excursion into Hungary’s history along the ‘Blue Danube’. Esztergom, the centre of the Catholic Church, we visit the largest cathedral of Hungary. Visegrád: walk upon the 750 year-old stones of the formal Royal Residence with a fascinating panorama on the Danube valley. Szentendre (artist's village): we invite you for a walk around the baroque settlement, built on medieval ruins. During the summer (01.05.- 30.09) we return to Budapest on the Danube by boat. The tour ends at the pier / city centre. (Lunch: optional - not incl.)- Overnight in Budapest

Day 4:ROUTING: BUDAPEST - GÖDÖLLŐ - BUDAPEST- History and tradition - Gödöllő, to the second largest Baroque Palace of the world, former summer residence of Queen Elisabeth (Sisi) and Francis Joseph (Habsburg Emperor & Hungarian king). This interior visit gives you a glimpse of times under the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Next, we visit a traditional Farm where you will be welcomed with ‘pogácsa’ and with the national welcome drink, pálinka. Horsemen will take you for a Carriage Ride through the area and will invite you to a traditional Horse Show. The tour ends at the city centre.- Overnight in Budapest

Day 5:ROUTING: BUDAPEST - NOVI SAD- After breakfast your guide will pick-up you from the hotel and transfer you at Novi Sad (Serbia). Arriving in the afternoon and check-in the hotel.Free time at your disposal in the evening. - Overnight in Novi Sad

Day 6:ROUTING: NOVI SAD - BELGRADE- Breakfast.

- Sightseeing tour of Novi Sad. Take a stroll through the center of the capital of Serbian province Vojvodina, called Europe in small, because of all the nations that live here. See all the must see sights in Novi Sad. On foot tour through the city center - White pearl of Novi Sad - the Serbian National Theatre, Main city Square where an excellent party is thrown every year for the New Years Eve. City Hall, Catholic Church, Catholic Porte, Bishop’s Court and the Gathering Church - different cultures and religions. Matica Srpska Gallery and library. Wonder the oldest streets in Novi Sad - Pasiceva, Zmaj Jovina and Dunavska Street. Relax in an oasis of nature in the very center of Novi Sad, in Dunavski Park. Head for a walk over the Danube, over the Rainbow Bridge, or if you don’t prefer too much walk, we can use a public transport. Climb up over 114 stairs to the top of the Petrovaradin Fortress, called the Gibraltar on Danube. Mingle with the locals on the fortress, have a coffee, drink and admire the panoramic view on the Danube River and its loving city - Novi Sad.

- Then continue our route to Belgrade. Check in the hotel and start a walking tour of Belgrade.- Take part on a guided tour through the center of Belgrade with one of our guides. Walking tour is the best way to see almost all famous sites of the capital: City Hall, National Parliament, Old Palace, Terazije Street and square, Republic and Nikola Pasic square. Take a walk down Knez Mihailova Street, the main pedestrian area of down town, see Albanija Tower, King Peter’s Street, Skadarlija - bohemian street, Kalemegdan Park, Belgrade Fortress (Gratitude to France Monument, Military Museum, The Victor Monument, Rudjer Boskovic Observatory, Ruzica Church, St. Paraskevi’s Chapel, Nebojsa Tower, Gate of Charles VI, see from the tower walls- confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, big Military Island, New Belgrade, Zemun …)- Overnight in Belgrade

Day 7:ROUTING: BELGRAD - SIBIU- After breakfast leave the city by car and go to Romania. On the way stop for visit at Alba Iulia Citadel.- Arrive to Sibiu- Check in- Overnight in Sibiu

Day 8:ROUTING : SIBIU- MEDIAS - SIGHISOARA (UNESCO)- Breakfast.- Visit the center of Sibiu. Main highlights:

Little Square and Grand Square, Evanghelical Cathedral, Lier’s Bridge, Bruckental Museum, defensive towers and fortifications, etc..- Then explore a region with beautiful Saxon citadels and fortresses. - Stop at Medias, old medieval town dating from XV century. The Margareth Cathedral is a monument included in UNESCO Heritages List and its famous Trompets Tower- Ending the day in Sighisoara (UNESCO), also called "The Pearl of Transylvania" a wonderful medieval city where you can still enjoy the medieval atmosphere. - Overnight in Sighisoara

Day 9:ROUTING: SIGHISOARA - CLUJ - BAIA MARE - CAVNIC- Breakfast.- After breakfast we’ll have a walking tour of the Sighisoara citadel. Visits at Clock Tower and History Museum, Born House of Vlad the Impaler, Covered Stairs, Church on the Hill, etc...- Than we leave Sighisoara on the route to the northern regions. - Passing by the cities of Cluj and Baia Mare having short panoramic tours.- Overnight in Cavinc

Day 10:ROUTING: CAVINC - DESESTI - SAPANTA - BARSANA - IEUD - VISEU- Breakfast. - Today explore the northernmost region, Maramures - the land of traditions and wooden churches.- First stop at wooden church from Desesti which is included in the UNESCO heritages.- Next stop at Sapanta and visit the famous Merry Cemetery (Unesco), truly one of the most unique sites in Europe. It is famous for its colourful tombstones with native paintings describing, in an original and poetic manner, the persons that are buried there as well as scenes from their lives. The Merry Cemetery became an open-air museum and a national tourist attraction.- Then onto Barsana church , built in 1720 , listed on UNESCO Heritage List , with the florid paintings , the best in Maramures and the Barsana Monastery (UNESCO ) a large monastic complex comprising of several wooden buildings, all constructed in the local style , including the wooden church The Gate Tower

is the higher wooden building from Europe. - At Ieud we can visit the oldest wooden church made in to the 14-een century (UNESCO). Don’t miss the The Maramures’s Woman Museum, where you can learn about maramuresean traditions and way of live.- End the day at Viseu

Day 11:ROUTING: VISEU/BORSA - MOLDOVITA - HUMOR - GURA HUMORULUI- Today we visit some of the World famous Painted Monasteries- Voronet (UNESCO) : founded in 1488 by Stephen the Great . It is the most accomplished sample of artistic achievement in Moldavian architecture and painting . The doors of the porch have a Renaissance framing, whereas the stone carvings of the broken arches at the doors and windows belong to the Gothic style. Voronet Monastery had been dubbed the oriental Sistine Chapel , whereas Voronet Blue , a color obtained from lapis lazuli, entered in the lexicon of art alongside Titian red and Veronese green, and to this day has yet to be reproduced by natural means- Moldovita (UNESCO): dates back from 1532 and is due to the ruling prince Petru Rares It has the aspect of a fortress, with imposing towers and high, thick walls. The church has a three-cusped plan, as well as an open porch. It Is decorated with scenes from the 16th c Moldavian life. You can see here the best preserved frescoes, with fresh and vivid colors- Sucevita : the last and the most magnificent monastic achievement among the painted monasteries in Bucovina , looks as a real fortress, with towers, buttresses and watch roads. Built in 1581, by one bishop, it was dedicated to the Assumption in 1584. Paintings of the Sucevita monastery were best preserved both on the outside and on the inside( Ladder of Virtue, the last Judgment, the tree of Jesse,) - Humor (UNESCO) : dates from 1530, this monastery was among the first churches to be painted , the frescoes were painted in 1535. Humor is painted in reddish brown ( from oriental madder pigment), colors are brilliant and truthful to nature- Overnight in Gura Humorului

Day 12:

ROUTING: GURA HUMORULUI - IASI - CHISINAU- After breakfast we’ll depart on the route to Iasi, an important city of Romania, located in North-East region near to the border with Moldova. Panoramic tour of Iasi City which was the capital of the historic Country of Moldova (Romanian province of Moldova and the actual Moldova Republic) and was Romania's first capital (from 1859-1862).The county's history records periods of vicissitudes and times of glory recalled by many monuments and vestiges. Iasi - "the town of the seven hills", is attested in the 15th century act issued by Prince Alexandru cel Bun (1400 - 1432) granting it commercial privileges, but the history of Iasi area goes back to the beginnings of this millennium. Panoramic tour of Iasi.- Continue our route to the border in Moldova Republic and we’ll arrive at Chisinau - the Capital of Moldova Republic. Short tour in the afternoon.- Overnight in Chisinau

Day 13:ROUTING: CHISINAU - ORHEIUL VECHI - CHISINAU- Breakfast.- Today we visit Orheiul Vechi, a medieval town and interesting museum complex, existing from the ancient times. The first stop is at Gangura-Parcalab fortress, that refers to the period of reighn of Stephan the Great - the famous Moldavian ruler.- Near is the museum of archeological discovery who present all types of crockery from different periods and settlements. - On the territory of the museum complex we can visit 2 objects of religious culture: Sacrific Uspennsk rocking church, built by monarchs-hermits in XII-XIII centuries and a small church built at the begining of XV th century by turcks at the time when the town Shehr-ali-Dgedid existed on this territory. Passing along the river Raur, we can enter in two small rooms, made in rock- Bosia monarchy that once was owned by the moldavian ruler Vlaicu Pircalab in the XVII century. Here are preserved inscriptions on the walls, in old slavic languages.- If you visit a Butuceni village, you have the possibility to enter small house. The majority of moldavian population before XIX - beginning of the XX century lived in such houses. You will see the famous Casa Mare, decorated by products of handwork, loom, household effects, that is not used today, bur exists in museums. You should enter in one more house, decorated by a well-disposed man. Here you can see a big collection of antique things, that people found in their gardens.- Return to Chisinau and OvernightACCOMMODATION:Option A: Hotel Jumbo**** or similarOption B: Gloria Hotel***Optional visit at Milestii Mici Wine Caves.

Day 14:ROUTING: CHISINAU - IASI - BACAU - BRASOV

- Breakfast.- In the morning we depart from the Republic of Moldova and return to Romania. The route will continue through Bucovina and than go to south. - Arrive in Brasov in the evening. - Overnight in Brasov

Day 15:ROUTING: BRASOV - BRAN - BRASOV- Breakfast.- Start the day with a short tour of the magic medieval center of Brasov (2 hours). The city of Brasov is one of the oldest in Europe, dating from 1235. During the Middle Ages, Brasov was known as a powerful fortress surrounded by high stone walls and defended by bulwarks, towers and other small fortresses. The buildings and the streets in the historical centre still preserve a medieval note. Concil Square, Black Church, White and Black Towers, Weaver’s Bastion and Ecaterina’s Gate are the tour highlights. - Continue your journey to Bran with it’s famous Bran castle. Also called Dracula's Castle, it is situated not far from Brasov (25 kilometres) at the entrance in the Bran - Rucar passage. The castle got its fame from Dracula`s legend written in 1897 by Bram Stoker and later on made into a film by Francis Ford Coppola.. The first documents about the Bran Castle appeared in 1377. Along the history, the Castle had a strategic mission being the border between Transylvania and Wallachia. First it was under the rule of the King of Hungary Sigismund of Luxemburg, than under the Romanian voievodes Mircea cel Batran and Vlad Tepes and later on it came under the jurisdiction of the City of Brasov. In 1912 it was donated by the municipality of Brasov to the romanian royal family, in order to became their residence.- Return to Brasov- Overnight

Day 16:ROUTING: BRASOV - SINAIA - BUCHAREST- Breakfast.- Leave from Brasov to Sinaia and visit the Peles Castle (only for arrives in Bucharest before 12.00), former summer residence of the kings of Romania. The Peles Castle is 44 kilometres far from Brasov, in Sinaia, a well-known mountain resort as well. Nowadays the Castle is one of the most important museums in Transylvania where one can admire furniture and ornamental objects, carpets, tapestry, sculptures, paintings, collections of weapons from the 15th up to the19th centuries.- Continue to Bucharest.- Panoramic tour of the city. Parliament Palace, Revolution Square, Royal

Palace and Old District are the highlights of the tour.- Overnight in Bucharest

Day 17:ROUTING: BUCHAREST - GIURGIU - VELIKO TURNOVO- After breakfast transfer to Bulgarian Border cross the Danube and transfer to Veliko Turnovo.- Pick up at Giurgiu – Romanian side of the border approx. at 12 p.m.- Cross the border to Bulgaria- Sightseeing of Veliko Turnovo - the ancient capital of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom (12th -14th C.), picturesquely situated on the hills at the banks of the meandering river Jantra. - Visit of the medieval fortress of Tsarevets hill and of Samovodska charshiya - handy craft street.Sightseeing of Arbanassi 17th C. fortified village with entrance to Konstanzaliev house (17th C.) and Jesus Christ Nativity Church which interior is covered in frescos depicting 2000 scenes.- Check-in hotel. - Overnight in Veliko Turnovo

Day 18:ROUTING: VELIKO TURNOVO - SHIPKA - PLOVDIV- Breakfast.- Drive to Plovdiv via Shipka Pass. On the way entrance to the Outdoor ethnographic museum Etura with its 18th-19th C. crafts. Stop at Shipka monument for pictures. Visit to the Shipka Memorial church with golden domes.- Arrival in Plovdiv in the afternoon. Walking in the old part of the town with beautiful old houses from the Bulgarian Revival period (18th C.).Entrance to the St. Konstantin and Elena church and to the Roman Theatre.Overnight in Plovidiv

Day 19:ROUTING: PLOVDIV - RILA - SOFIA- Breakfast. - Departure to Rila Monastery across the magnificent nature of the Rila and Rhodope Mountains. Stop at winter resort Borovets.- Visit of the largest and one of the oldest Bulgarian monasteries (10th C.), included in the UNESCO World Heritage List with medieval defence tower from the 14th C. and fine frescoes.Sightseeing of Sofia - St. Sofia statue, St. George Rotunda, Ruins of Serdica, National Theatre, Russian church, Al. Nevski Cathedral and St. Sofia church. - Overnight in Sofia

Day 20:ROUTING: SOFIAAfter breakfast free time and then transfer to Sofia Airport for your departure flight.


The Tour Includes:- 19 nights accommodation - (B) breakfast daily, except on the day of arrival- Budapest transfer in- Half day Budapest Coach Tour- Full Day Danube Bend Coach Tour- Half day Godollo Coach Tour- English-Speaking Private driver for duration in Serbia and Moldova- Local tour guide in Serbia and Moldova for tours specified in the itinerary- English-Speaking local driver/guide for duration in Romania- English-Speaking local guide + driver for duration in Romania- Local taxes

Tour of Transylvania


EUR 1.320,00 per person / in double room in 3/ 4* Hotels

Day 1: ROUTING: BUDAPEST- Upon arrival your private driver will transfer you to your hotel- Check in hotel- Folklore show with dinner- Return in the evening- Overnight in BudapestACCOMMODATION: HOTEL****D

Day 2:ROUTING: BUDAPEST- Breakfast in the hotel.- 3-hour-long city tour and Parliament visit. Erzsebet Square, Opera House, Heroes Square/Millenium Memorial (photostop), downtown, Erzsebet Bridge, panorama view to the banks of the River Danube with famous public buildings, panorama view from Gellert Hill (photostop), walk in the Castle district, Matthias Church (outside), Fishermen Bastion, panorama view to the city, Margit Bridge.

- Visit the House of Parliament: first outside then inside the impressive building with its magnificent neogothic chambers and staircases, the home of the Hungarian Holy Crown. The program ends in front of the House of Parliament. (Note: this tour maybe changed to a city tour by boat, inquire for details)- Rest of the day at your leisure- Overnight in BudapestACCOMMODATION: HOTEL****B

Day 3:ROUTING: BUDAPEST - CLUJ-NAPOCA- Breakfast- Transfer to Budapest-Keleti Train Station- Take a train to Cluj, train times are below...- Upon arrival to Cluj your English-speaking driver/guide will pick you up from the train station- Check in hotel- First night at your leisure- Overnight in Cluj-NapocaACCOMMODATION: City Plaza ****B

Day 4:ROUTING: CLUJ-NAPOCA - ALBA IULIA - SIBIU- Breakfast- Today we start our journey into Transylvania - the land of medieval castles, old cities and fortified churches- First stop at Alba Iulia. The modern city is located near the site of the important Dacian political, economic and social centre named Apulon (believed by many archaeologists to be the Dacian fortifications on top of Piatra Craivii). In the roman period the city was known as Apullum. In 1918, tens of thousands of Romanians gathered in Alba Iulia on December 1, now commemorated as the National Day of Romania, to hear the proclamation of the union of Transylvania with the Kingdom of Romania. In 1922, Ferdinand of Romania was symbolically crowned King of Romania in Alba Iulia in an act which mirrored the achievement of Michael the Brave.- Next visit Calnic Castle (Unesco site). The castle, first mentioned in 1269, is very well preserved. Built as a noble's residence, it was bought in 1430 by local peasants and fortified.- Evening Tour of Sibiu : including the Tower of the Council, the Liars Bridge, The Protestant Church (dated 1321), the Old Town Hall, the Bruckental Museum, and the Jesuit Baroque Church- Overnight in SibiuACCOMMODATION: ****B

Day 5:

ROUTING: SIBIU - SLIMNIC - ALMA VII - MEDIAS - BIERTAN - SIGHISOARA- First part of the day is dedicated to explore the old fortresses built by saxons in the south of Transylvania. We’ll visit three of the most important fortresses from Slimnic, Alma Vii, Biertan which are included in the Unesco Heritages list.- Slimnic rural fortress named Stolzemburg built in 14 century by German community. A part of the fortress is ruins. - Alma Vii – fortified church since 15 century. An example of Saxon construction which can be seen through-out Transylvania.- In Medias is the beautiful Margareta church from XIV century and the main tower with 47m high slant. This tower was included in top 10 the most slanted towers in the world.- In Biertan village is a fortified medieval church, one of the biggest in Transylvania with three defensive inner walls.- Ending the day in Sighisoara, one of the most preserved medieval city in Europe. Situated in Mures County, on the valley of the Tarnava Mare river, Sighisoara (former Dacian settlement and also called the pearl of Transylvania) was founded by the German immigrants in the second half of the 12th century and it was turned into a city in 1407. Its medieval aspect may be found both in the centre of the city and inside the Fortress of Sighisoara. In this area, houses are built very close to one another, giving a sense of crowdedness (in order to occupy the least space possible)- The main sights: Clock Tower and History Museum, Birth place of Vlad Tepes (Vlad the Impaler), Covered stairs, Church on the Hill.- In the evening a tour of Sighisoara, the best preserved medieval fortress in EuropeACCOMMODATION: *** B

Day 6:ROUTING: SIGHISOARA - BRAN - RASNOV - BRASOV- Continue your journey to Bran with it’s famous Bran castle. Also called Dracula's Castle, it is situated not far from Brasov (25 kilometers) at the entrance in the Bran - Rucar passage. The castle got its fame from Dracula's legend written in 1897 by Bram Stoker and later on made into a film by Francis Ford Coppola.. The first documents about the Bran Castle appeared in 1377. Along the history, the Castle had a strategic mission being the border between Transylvania and Wallachia. First it was under the rule of the King of Hungary Sigismund of Luxemburg, than under the Romanian voievodes Mircea cel Batran and Vlad Tepes and later on it came under the jurisdiction of the City of Brasov. In 1912 it was donated by the municipality of Brasov to the Romanian royal family, in order to became their residence.- Than if time will allows (depending of the season) stop for a visit at Rasnov and visit the old citadel. Built in 1331, the Fortress had a defense role and it was a shelter for the inhabitants of Rasnov in case of enemy attacks. In the middle of the courtyard there is a well 146 metres deep and the ruins of an 11th - 12th century - Orthodox church were discovered here. Nowadays the Fortress houses an interesting museum- Than go to Brasov and visit the historical center where you can admire Concil Square, Black Church, Weaver's Bastion, Ecaterina's Gate, Black and White Tower. - Dinner at the Serbians Tavern

- Overnight in BrasovACCOMMODATION: *** B

Day 7: ROUTING: BRASOV - SINAIA - BUCHAREST- In the morning we will go to visit the Peles Castle, former summer residence of the kings of Romania, the Peles Castle is 44 kilometres far from Brasov, in Sinaia, a well-known mountain resort. Nowadays the Castle is one of the most important museums in Transylvania with an impressive collection of furniture and ornamental objects, carpets, tapestry, sculptures, paintings, collections of weapons from the 15th up to the19th centuries.- Transfer to Bucharest Airport and final good-bye from your Romanian Specialist Tour Guide (2h.30min driving) or continue this tour to Bulgaria with our partners


The Tour Includes:- 6 nights accommodation as described in the itinerary (category)- Breakfast Daily- Private Return Transfers in Budapest- (D) Folklore show with Dinner in Budapest- 1 half day coach sightseeing tour of Budapest (Inquire for private tour)- Train ticket from Budapest to Cluj-Napoca- English-Speaking Private driver/guide for the duration of the tour in Romania (5 Days)- Transportation by private car or minivan- Local Taxes

Grand Tour of Transylvania


EUR 2.160,00 per person / in double room in 4* Hotels


Day 1: ROUTING: BUCHAREST-BRASOV

- Your English-speaking specialist guide will pick you up from your location in Bucharest (Hotel, Airport, etc...)- Departure from Bucharest to Transylvania, the county beyond the forest- Arrival to the medieval town of Brasov and check in hotel- Evening at your leisure- Overnight in Brasov

Day 2:ROUTING: BRASOV - SINAIA - BRAN - RASNOV - BRASOV- Breakfast. - In the morning we go to Sinaia and visit the Peles Castle, former summer residence of the kings of Romania, the Peles Castle is 44 kilometres far from Brasov, in Sinaia, a well-known mountain resort as well. Nowadays the Castle is one of the most important museums in Transylvania where one can admire furniture and ornamental objects, carpets, tapestry, sculptures, paintings, collections of weapons from the 15th up to the19th centuries.- Then it's time for a visit at the famous Bran Castle. Also called Dracula's Castle, it is situated not far from Brasov (25 kilometres) at the entrance in the Bran - Rucar passage. The castle got its fame from Dracula`s legend written in 1897 by Bram Stoker and later on made into a film by Francis Ford Coppola.. The first documents about the Bran Castle appeared in 1377. Along the history, the Castle had a strategic mission being the border between Transylvania and Wallachia. First it was under the rule of the King of Hungary Sigismund of Luxemburg, of the Romanian voievodes Mircea cel Batran and Vlad Tepes and later on it came under the jurisdiction of the City of Brasov. In the XX century the castle was donated to the royal family and became a royal residence. The museum preserve the furniture and objects from that period.- The last stop today will be at Rasnov Fortress. Built in 1331, the Fortress

had a defence role and it was a shelter for the inhabitants of Rasnov in case of enemy attacks. In the middle of the courtyard there is a well 146 metres deep and the ruins of an 11th - 12th century - Orthodox Church were discovered here. Nowadays the Fortress houses an interesting museum- Ending back in Brasov- Overnight in BrasovB

Day 3:ROUTING: BRASOV - PREJMER – SIGHISOARA- Breakfast.- Start our route to the north-east regions of Romania. First stop is the village of Prejmer (near to Brasov) and a visit at Prejmer Fortified Church (Unesco Heritage). - End the day in Sighiosoara, one of the most preserved medieval cities in Europe. Situated in Mures County, on the valley of the Tarnava Mare River, Sighisoara (former Dacian settlement and also called “the pearl of Transylvania”) was founded by the German immigrants in the second half of the 12th century and it was turned into a city in 1407. Its medieval aspect may be found both in the centre of the city and inside the Fortress of Sighisoara. In this area, houses are built very close to one another, giving a sense of “crowdedness” (in order to occupy the least space possible).- Visit the medieval citadel of Sighisoara. Main sights are: Clock Tower and History museum, Birthplace of Vlad the Impaler the famous and cruel Romanian prince, Church on the Hill, Covered Stairs, a.s.o.- Overnight in SighisoaraB

Day 4: ROUTING: SIGHISOARA-TARGU MURES-DRAGOMIRESTI-IEUD–BOTIZA

- Breakfast.- After breakfast we’ll leave for Maramures, the northern region of Romania, the land of wooden churches and well preserved traditions.- Today we visit the wooden church from Ieud, the oldest wooden building in Europe, built in the 14th century. - At Dragomiresti we’ll visit the Maramures Woman Museum, where you can learn about maramuresean traditions and way of live.- Dinner.- Overnight in BotizaB,D

Day 5: ROUTING: BOTIZA-BARSANA- DESESTI-SIGHET

- Breakfast.- First stop at the Barsana Monastery (UNESCO), a large monastic complex comprising of several wooden buildings, all constructed in the local style, including the wooden church The Gate Tower is the higher wooden building

from Europe.- Next stop at the wooden church of Desesti which is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.-Overnight in SighetB

Day 6: ROUTING: SIGHET- SAPANTA-ORADEA- Breakfast.- Then go to Sapanta and visit the famous Merry Cemetery, truly one of the most unique sites in Europe. It is famous for its colorful tombstones with native paintings describing, in an original and poetic manner, the persons that are buried there as well as scenes from their lives. The Merry Cemetery became an open-air museum and a national tourist attraction.- Our route will go than to Oradea, a city in the western region of Romania, near the Hungarian Border.- Overnight in OradeaB

Day 7: ROUTING: ORADEA-ARAD-RECAS/MINIS-TIMISOARA

- Breakfast.- In the morning a visit through the center of Oradea will lead you through the charm of Art Nouveau architecture style, Cathedrals and pedestrians areas.- Then we’ll continue the tour visiting two cities in Western Romania, Arad and Timisoara. - Arad is a modern-built city and contains many charming private and public buildings, including a cathedral. Its origins came from the XIth century and it had a great economic development in XIX century.- Timisoara - The city is also called "Little Vienna", because it belonged for a very long time to the Habsburg Empire, and the entire city center consists of buildings built in the Kaiser era, which is reminiscent of the old Vienna. It was the first European city to be lit by electric street lamps in 1884. It was also the second European and the first city in what is now Romania with horse drawn trams in 1867. In December 1989 here is where the Revolution against communists started.- Near Timisoara are two of the famous Romanian vineyards, Minis and Recas. According to your wishes we can visit one of them and of course taste some wine.- Overnight in Timisoara B

Day 8: ROUTING: TIMISOARA-DEVA-HUNEDOARA

- Breakfast.- In the morning a tour of Timisoara city.

- Then leave Timisoara for Deva. The local citadel can also be visited. - Last stop of the day will be at Hunyad’s Castle. The most representative castle in this part of Transylvania was built in the 14th century and became famous as a property of Iancu of Hunedoara, the great ruler and fighter against the Ottoman Empire at that time. Built in the 14th century, on the place of an old fortification, on a rock below which flows the small river Zlasti the castle is a large building, with tall and diversely colored roofs, towers, windows and balconies adorned with carvings in stone.- Overnight in HunedoaraB

Day 9: ROUTING: HUNEDOARA-ALBA IULIA-SIBIU

- Breakfast.- We continue to Alba Iulia. The modern city is located near the site of the important Dacian political, economic and social centre named Apulon (believed by many archaeologists to be the Dacian fortifications on top of Piatra Craivii). In the roman period the city was known as Apullum. In 1918, tens of thousands of Romanians gathered in Alba Iulia on December 1, now commemorated as the National Day of Romania, to hear the proclamation of the union of Transylvania with the Romania Kindom. In1922, Ferdinand of Romania was symbolically crowned King of Romania in Alba Iulia in an act which mirrored the achievement of Michael the Brave. Visit the old citadel, The Reunion Cathedral, The Reunion Hall and Museum, The Catholic Cathedral (who host the grave of Iancu de Hunedoara – the famous ruler of Transylvania.- Next stop is at Calnic Castle (Unesco site). The castle, first mentioned in 1269, is very well preserved. Built as a noble's residence, it was bought in 1430 by local peasants and fortified- End the day at Sibiu – the eropean capital of culture in 2007.- Overnight in SibiuB

Day 10: ROUTING: SIBIU-FAGARAS-BRASOV

- Breakfast.- In the morning we’ll make a city tour of Sibiu. The Big Square, the Small Square, the Ursuline Church, The Franciscan Church, The staircase Tower, the Tanners Tower, the Liar’s Bridge, the House of the Butcher’s Guild and Bruckenthal Museum are the most important sights. - En route to Brasov we’ll stop after a short detour at Sambata Mnastery, built in the Brancovenesc architectural style. - We then stop at Fagaras for a visit of the Fagaras Citadel, a former royal

estate in medieval ages.-End the day in Brasov. - Overnight in BrasovB

Day 11: ROUTING: BRASOV-BUCHAREST/BULGARIAN BORDER

- Breakfast.- Transfer to Bucharest International Airport or the Bulgarian Border.

The Tour Includes:- 8 nights accommodation - (B) Breakfast daily, except on the day of arrival- English-Speaking Specialist guide for the duration of the tour- Transportation in private car or minivan- Local Taxes

Tour of Bulgaria

7 days / 6 nightsStarting from

EUR 1.450,00 per person / in double room in 3*/4* Hotels

Day 1:ROUTING: BUCHAREST - Your English-Speaking driver/guide will pick you up from the Airport in Bucharest and transfer you to your hotel- Overnight in Bucharest

Day 2:ROUTING: BUCHAREST - GIURGIU (BULGARIAN BORDER) - VELIKO TURNOVO- Breakfast- In the morning a sightseeing tour of Bucharest- Then transfer to Bulgarian Border where you will meet the Bulgarian guide.- Pick up at Giurgiu – Romanian side of the border approx. at 1 p.m. - Cross the border to Bulgaria- Drive to the Rock monasteries by Ivanovo, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List- Check-in hotel- Overnight. B

Day 3: ROUTING: VELIKO TURNOVO- Breakfast- After breakfast – sightseeing of Veliko Turnovo - the ancient capital of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom (12th -14th C.), picturesquely situated on the hills at the banks of the meandering river Jantra. Visit of the medieval fortress of Tsarevets hill and of Samovodska charshiya - handy craft street.- Sightseeing of Arbanassi – 17th C. fortified village with entrance to Konstanzaliev’s house (17th C.) and Jesus Christ’s Nativity Church which interior is covered in frescos depicting 2000 scenes.- Overnight B

Day 4: ROUTING: VELIKO TURNOVO - SHIPKA - PLOVDIV- Breakfast- Drive to Plovdiv via Shipka Pass. - Visit to the Shipka Memorial church with golden domes. - Visit to the Thracian tomb in Kazanlak, UNESCO World Heritage monument - Arrival in Plovdiv in the afternoon. Walking in the old part of the town with beautiful old houses from the Bulgarian Revival period (18th – 19th C.). - Entrance to the St. Konstantin and Elena church and to the Roman Theatre.- Overnight at 3-star hotel in Plovdiv.B

Day 5: ROUTING: PLOVDIV - RILA - SOFIA- Breakfast- Departure to Rila Monastery across the magnificent nature of the Rila and Rhodope Mountains.- Stop at winter resort Borovets. - Visit of the largest and one of the oldest Bulgarian monasteries (10th C.), included in the UNESCO World Heritage List with medieval defense tower from the 14th C. and fine frescoes.- Departure to the capital Sofia. Overnight at 3-star hotel in Sofia. - Overnight in SofiaB

Day 6: ROUTING: SOFIA- Breakfast- Sightseeing on foot of the capital town – St. Sofia statue, St. Petka church, St. George Rotunda, Ruins of Serdica, National Theater, Russian church, Al. Nevski Cathedral and St. Sofia church. - Continue the sightseeing of Sofia – entrance to Boyana Church (UNESCO site) and National History museum or trip to Vitosha Mountain. Overnight as the same hotel.- Overnight in SofiaB

Day 7: ROUTING: SOFIA- Breakfast- Transfer to the airport and the final good-bye

B


The Tour Includes:- 6 nights accommodation in double rooms - Private transfer from Bucharest to Bulgarian border- English-Speaking Specialist driver for the duration of the tour in Bulgaria- Local guides upon request- Local Taxes

BUCOVINA AND REPUBLIC OF MOLDAVA TOUR


EUR 1.720,00 per person / in double room in 3/ 4* Hotels

Day 1: ROUTING: BUCHAREST- Arriving on the Bucharest your local driver/guide will meet you and transfer to the hotel. - overnight in Bucharest

Day 2: ROUTING: BUCHAREST - IASI - CHISINAU- Breakfast. - Enjoy a Panoramic tour of Bucharest - capital of Romania, a large city with a population over 2 million inhabitants. The history of Bucharest came from XV century. The very famous Romanian ruler, Vlad the Impaler, establish his Royal Court at Bucharest, fact which will improve the city's development. The "Golden Age" for Bucharest was in the period between the two World Wars when the city was called "The Little Paris". A lot of important buildings and architecture style belong to that period.- Main sights of the tour are: Parliament Palace, Victory Palace, Triumphal Arch, Royal Palace, Revolution Square, Old District, House of Free Press, etc.Than we'll depart on the route to Iasi, an important city of Romania, located in North-East region near to the border with Moldova. We'll continue our route to the border in Moldova Republic and we'll arrive at Chisinau - the Capital of Moldova Republic. - Overnight in ChisinauB

Day 3:ROUTING: CHISINAU - ORHEIUL VECHI - CHATEAU VARTELY - CHISINAU- Breakfast.- In the morning meet with your local specialized guide and visit Orheiul Vechi, a medieval town and interesting museum complex, existing from the ancient times. The first stop is at Gangura-Parcalab fortress, that refers to the period of reighn of Stephan the Great - the famous Moldavian ruler.- Near is the museum of archeological discovery who present all types of crockery from different periods and settlements. - On the territory of the museum complex we can visit 2 objects of religious culture: Sacrific Uspennsk rocking church, built by monarchs-hermits in XII-XIII centuries and a small church built at the beginning of XV th century by Tucks at the time when the town Shehr-ali-Dgedid existed on this territory. Passing along the river Raur, we can enter in two small rooms, made in rock- Bosia monarchy that once was owned by the Moldavian ruler Vlaicu Pircalab in the XVII century. Here are preserved inscriptions on the walls, in old Slavic languages.- If you visit a Butuceni village, you have the possibility to enter small house. The majority of Moldavian population before XIX - beginning of the XX century

lived in such houses. You will see the famous Casa Mare, decorated by products of handwork, loom, household effects,that is not used today, bur exists in museums. You should enter in one more house, decorated by a well-disposed man. Here you can see a big collection of antique things, that people found in their gardens.- Than we'll go for a wine tour at Chateau Vartely, a modern tourist complex with hotel, restaurant and tasting rooms. You can choose from 3 tasting packages High Quality, Selected Wines, World Collection.- Return to Chisinau.- OvernightB

Day 4: ROUTING: CHISINAU - MILESTII MICI - IASI - VORONET- Breakfast. - Starting with a panoramic tour of Chisinau, visits at the most important cultural and religious monuments from the Capital of Moldova.- In the second part of the day we'll have another chance to taste and enjoy the very known Moldavian wines. We'll go at Milestii Mici Wine Caves. Milestii Mici galleries lasts over 200 kilometers and were noted in Guinness World Records Book as the most large wine collection in Europe. Golden Collection contains over 2 million bottles of harmonious wines.- The wines stored here are made of various years' crops, beginning with the 1968 to 1991. The spirit of the age is very well felt here, in this underground wine city, emerged from wide tunnels. You can pass by car these 200 km of natural lime galleries. The constant temperature of 12-14 ºC and the humidity of 85-95% of this "kingdom of wine" ideally contribute to the preservation of the Moldavian strategic stocks.- Welcome to the wine depositary - once you see this marvel - to return here over and over again in search of the wine of your dreams! You'll have to choose between a some visiting, tasting and/or eating packages inside the cellar.- Then we leave Chisinau and go back to Romania, where we'll continue our tour visiting Bucovina region.- Overnight in Gura Humorului B

Day 5:ROUTING: VORONET- MOLDOVITA - SUCEVITA - PUTNA - VORONET - Today we visit some of the World famous Painted Monasteries- Moldovita (UNESCO): dates back from 1532 and is due to the ruling prince Petru Rares It has the aspect of a fortress, with imposing towers and high, thick walls. The church has a three-cusped plan, as well as an open porch. It Is decorated with scenes from the 16th c Moldavian life. You can see here the best preserved frescoes, with fresh and vivid colors- Sucevita : the last and the most magnificent monastic achievement among the painted monasteries in Bucovina , looks as a real fortress, with towers, buttresses and watch roads. Built in 1581, by one bishop, it was dedicated to the Assumption in 1584. Paintings of the Sucevita monastery were best preserved both on the outside and on the inside( Ladder of Virtue, the last

Judgment, the tree of Jesse,) - Putna : The beginnings of Putna Monastery, the most important religious, cultural and artistic centre in mediaeval Moldavia, take us back to the year 1466 when, upon the initiative of Prince Stephen the Great , a church of impressive dimensions was built on a patch of forest cleared for the purpose. The edifice was erected among 1466 and 1469 and consecrated in 1470; to it was added a few more buildings: a princely home standing on the southern side, outer walls and defence towers; all of them completed in 1481. Miniature painters, many embroiderers, icon makers, weavers, silversmiths, sculptors in wood and book-binders toiled on in the quiet atmosphere of the monks' cells at Putna. They continued valuable Romanian patterns and achieved works of great artistic value which today are the pride of all museums and libraries housing them. - Special mention should be made of the sumptuous and elegant Four Gospels created here, adorned with miniatures in which perfect drawing combines with a motley color scheme in which gold prevails, as well as the fine embroideries (epitaphs, iconostasis curtains, coverings of tetrapods and of graves, stoles, etc.), many of them on show in the museum of the monastery.- Overnight in Gura Humorului B

Day 6:ROUTING: VORONET - HUMOR - BUCHAREST- Breakfast and continue the visits of the Bucovina County.- Voronet Monastery (UNESCO) : founded in 1488 by Stephen the Great . It is the most accomplished sample of artistic achievement in Moldavian architecture and painting . The doors of the porch have a Renaissance framing, whereas the stone carvings of the broken arches at the doors and windows belong to the Gothic style. Voronet Monastery had been dubbed the oriental Sistine Chapel , whereas Voronet Blue , a color obtained from lapis lazuli, entered in the lexicon of art alongside Titian red and Veronese green, and to this day has yet to be reproduced by natural means.- Humor (UNESCO) : dates from 1530, this monastery was among the first churches to be painted , the frescoes were painted in 1535. Humor is painted in reddish brown ( from oriental madder pigment), colors are brilliant and truthful to nature.- After we leave Bucovina and it's beauties and head back to Bucharest.- Arriving in the evening and overnightB

Day 7:ROUTING: BUCHAREST - AIRPORT- Then transfer to the Airport


The Tour Includes:- 6 nights accommodation - (B) breakfast daily, except on the day of arrival- English-Speaking Specialist driver/guide for the duration of the tour- Local taxes

THE BEST OF ROMANIA TOUR



EUR 1.720,00 per person / in

double room in 3* Hotels

Day 1: ROUTING: BUDAPEST- Upon arrival your private driver will transfer you to your hotel- Check in hotel- Folklore show with dinner- Return in the evening- Overnight in BudapestD

Day 2:ROUTING: BUDAPEST- Breakfast in the hotel.- 3-hour-long city tour and Parliament visit. Erzsebet Square, Opera House, Heroes Square/Millenium Memorial (photostop), downtown, Erzsebet Bridge, panorama view to the banks of the River Danube with famous public buildings, panorama view from Gellert Hill (photostop), walk in the Castle district, Matthias Church (outside), Fishermen Bastion, panorama view to the city, Margit Bridge.- Visit the House of Parliament: first outside then inside the impressive building with its magnificent neogothic chambers and staircases, the home of the Hungarian Holy Crown. The program ends in front of the House of Parliament. (Note: this tour maybe changed to a city tour by boat, inquire for details)- Rest of the day at your leisure- Overnight in BudapestB

Day 3:ROUTING: BUDAPEST - CLUJ-NAPOCA- Breakfast- Transfer to Budapest-Keleti Train Station- Take a train to Cluj- Upon arrival to Cluj your English-speaking driver/guide will pick you up from the train station- Overnight in ClujB

Day 4:ROUTING: CLUJ-NAPOCA - CAVNIC- Breakfast- Tour of Cluj-Napoca; one of the oldest cities from Romania, its origins came fron the ancient times of Roman Empire when the city was named "Napoca". Visit the center of the city with the St Michael's Cathedral, The Orthodox Cathedral, Romanian Opera, Born House of Matei Corvin (Mathias Corvinus) the former king of Hungary, the "Cetăţuia" with its wonderful panorama of the city.- Depart to Cavnic (approx 2 hours)

- Overnight B

Day 5:ROUTING: CAVNIC - BAIA MARE - DESESTI - SIGHET - VISEU- Breakfast.- Depart from Cluj to the north to visit Maramures County, the land of traditions and wooden churches.- First stop at Desesti in order to visit the local wodden church (UNESCO). Than go to Sapanta and visit the famous Merry Cemetery, truly one of the most unique sites in Europe. It is famous for its colourful tombstones with native paintings describing, in an original and poetic manner, the persons that are buried there as well as scenes from their lives. The Merry Cemetery became an open-air museum and a national tourist attraction.- Next we are to The Birsana church , built in 1720 , listed on UNESCO Heritage List , with the florid paintings , the best in Maramures and the Barsana Monastery (UNESCO ) a large monastic complex comprising of several wooden buildings, all constructed in the local style , including the wooden church . The Gate Tower is the higher wooden building from Europe. - At Ieud we can visit the oldest wodden church made in to the 14-een century (UNESCO). Don’t miss the The Maramures’s Woman Museum from Dragomiresti, where you can learn about maramuresean traditions and way of live.- Overnight in ViseuB

Day 6: ROUTING: VISEU/BORSA - MOLDOVITA - HUMOR - VORONET / GURA HUMORULUI- Breakfast- Today we’ll visit some of the World famous Painted Monasteries- Sucevita : the last and the most magnificent monastic achievement among the painted monasteries in Bucovina , looks as a r+eal fortress, with towers, buttresses and watch roads. Built in 1581, by one bishop, it was dedicated to the Assumption in 1584. Paintings of the Sucevita monastery were best preserved both on the outside and on the inside( Ladder of Virtue, the last Judgment, the tree of Jesse,) - Moldovita (UNESCO): dates back from 1532 and is due to the ruling prince Petru Rares It has the aspect of a fortress, with imposing towers and high, thick walls. The church has a three-cusped plan, as well as an open porch. It Is decorated with scenes from the 16th c Moldavian life. You can see here the best preserved frescoes, with fresh and vivid colors- Humor (UNESCO) : dates from 1530, this monastery was among the first churches to be painted , the frescoes were painted in 1535. Humor is painted in reddish brown ( from oriental madder pigment), colors are brilliant and truthful to nature- Overnight in Gura Humorului or VornetB

Day 7:ROUTING: VORONET/GURA HUMORULUI - TARGU NEAMT - BRASOV- Breakfast. - Starting the day with a visit at Voronet Monastery and than depart to Brasov stoping on the route for visits at Neamt Monastery and Neamt Citadel.- Voronet Monastery (UNESCO) : founded in 1488 by Stephen the Great . It is the most accomplished sample of artistic achievement in Moldavian architecture and painting . The doors of the porch have a Renaissance framing, whereas the stone carvings of the broken arches at the doors and windows belong to the Gothic style. Voronet Monastery had been dubbed the oriental Sistine Chapel , whereas Voronet Blue , a color obtained from lapis lazuli, entered in the lexicon of art alongside Titian red and Veronese green, and to this day has yet to be reproduced by natural means.- Neamt Monastery, one of the oldest and most important of its kind in Romania. It was built in 14th century, and it is an example of medieval moldavian architecture. - Arrive in Brasov in the evening.- Overnight in BrasovB

Day 8:ROUTING: BRASOV - SINAIA - BRAN - RASNOV - BRASOV-Breakfast.- Today we will explore the region of castles and citadels.- First stop at Sinaia and visit the Peles Castle, former summer residence of the kings of Romania, the Peles Castle is 44 kilometres far from Brasov, in Sinaia, a well-known mountain resort as well. Nowadays the Castle is one of the most important museums in Transylvania where one can admire furniture and ornamental objects, carpets, tapestry, sculptures, paintings, collections of weapons from the 15th up to the19th centuries.- Continuing the journey to Bran and visit the famous Bran Castle. Also called Dracula`s Castle, it is situated not far from Brasov (25 kilometres) at the entrance in the Bran - Rucar passage. The castle got its fame from Dracula`s legend written in 1897 by Bram Stoker and later on made into a film by Francis Ford Coppola.. The first documents about the Bran Castle appeared in 1377. Along the history, the Castle had a strategic mission being the border between Transylvania and Wallachia. First it was under the rule of the King of Hungary Sigismund of Luxemburg, of the Romanian voievodes Mircea cel Batran and Vlad Tepes and later on it came under the jurisdiction of the City of Brasov. In the XX century the castle was donated to the royal family and becamed a royal residence. The museum preserve the furniture and objects from that period.- Last stop at Rasnov Fortress. Built in 1331, the Fortress had a defence role and it was a shelter for the inhabitants of Rasnov in case of enemy attacks.In the middle of the courtyard there is a well 146 metres deep and the ruins of an 11th - 12th century - Orthodox church were discovered here. Nowadays the Fortress houses an interesting museum- Return to hotel- Overnight in BrasovB

Day 9:ROUTING: BRASOV - PREJMER - SIGHISOARA - SIBIU- Breakfast- Begin our day with a short tour of the magic medieval center of Brasov (2 hours) - Concil Square, Black Church, White and Black Towers, Weaver’s Bastion and Ecaterina’s Gate. - Then we go to Preajmer a village near Brasov for a visit at the Prejmer fortified church - the biggest fortress of its kind from East Europe built in the 14th century. The fortress has double walls and dungeons. Inside its walls there is a church, but the interesting thing here is the honeycomb like inner wall. Every family had one small room for sheltering in case the village was attacked.- Then onto Sighisoara (UNESCO), also caled "The Pearl of Transylvania" a wonderful medieval city where you can stil enjoy the medieval atmosphere. Short walking in Sighisoara and visits at Clock Tower and History Museum, Birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, Covered Stairs, Church on the Hill, etc..- End the day in Sibiu- Overnight B

Day 10:ROUTING: SIBIU - COZIA - HOREZU - BUCHAREST- Breakfast.- In the morning visit the Old Center of Sibiu. Sibiu was the European Capital of Culture in 2007. The Big Square, the Small Square, the Ursuline Church, The Franciscan Church, The staircase Tower, the Tanners Tower, the Lier’s Bridge , the House of the Butcher’s Guild and Bruckenthal Museum are the most important sights.- Leaving Sibiu we’ll cross Carpathians Mountains through the beautiful Olt River Valley. One can admire the amazing landscapes of the mountains.- In our way a stop for a visit at Cozia Monastery, which is set in one of the most picturesque of the many carpathian landscapes which are the pride of Oltenia, this immense repository of such monuments.- Than after a short detour to visit the Monastery of Horezu was founded in 1690 by Prince Constantin Brâncoveanu in the town of Horezu, Wallachia, Romania. It is considered to be a masterpiece of "Brâncovean" style, known for its architectural purity and balance, the richness of its sculpted detail, its treatment of religious compositions, its votive portraits, and its painted decorative works. The town of Horezu is well known for its people who make pottery and present it at an annual fair. There are special traditions which have been well preserved .- End the day in Bucharest.- OvernightB

Day 11:ROUTING: BUCHAREST- Breakfast in Hotel- Breakfast.- If the time will allow we can organize a panoramic tour of Bucharest (2 hours).

Highlights: Parliament Palace, Triumph Arch, Victory Palace, Revolution Square, Royal Palace, Victory Avenue.- Drop off at airportB


The Tour Includes:- 10 nights accommodation- Breakfast Daily- Private Return Transfers in Budapest- (D) Dinner and Folklore show in Budapest- 1 half day coach sightseeing tour of Budapest (Inquire for private tour)- Train ticket from Budapest to Cluj-Napoca- English-Speaking driver/guide for the duration of the tour in Romania (8 Days)- Transportation by private car or minivan- all local taxes

DRACULA AND TRANSYLVANIA TOUR


EUR 1.295,00 per person / in double room in 3*/4* Hotels

Day 1:ROUTING: BUCHAREST - CURTEA DE ARGES - POENARI - SIBIU- Your English-speaking specialist guide will pick you up from Bucharest Airport or another location in the city (This tour is also available to start from Cluj)- After we leave the Bucharest region and go to Curtea de Arges, the former second capital of Wallachia. The strongholds rebuilt in the 14th century. See its Princely Church and its frescoed interior which is one of the first examples of Romanian paintings. The Episcopal Church (the monastery) which is a recreation of the original built in 1512 -1517 by prince Neagoe Basarab (rebuilt in 1875 - 1885) and Olari Church.- Next is a visit at Poenari Castle. Standing on a cliff but now in ruins - this is known as the real castle of Dracula (Vlad Tepes). To get to the top you must climb up its 1400 steps (takes approx. 1 hour). Once you arrive to the top of the Citadel you will find that the citadel is surprisingly small, one third has collapsed down the mountainside in 1888. Entering through a narrow wooden bridge, you come across the crumbling remains of two towers within; the prism shaped one was Vlad's ( Dracula's) residential quarters, from here, according to the legend , The Impaler's wife flung herself out from the window, declaring that better this way than be captured by the Turks, who were besieging the castle. Legend has it that Vlad himself escaped over the mountains on horseback.- Continue the road to Sibiu- Overnight in Sibiu

Day 2:ROUTING: SIBIU - HUNEDOARA – ALBA IULIA - SIBIU- Breakfast- First stop will be at Hunedoara to visit the famous Hunyad Castle, the residence of the brave Transylvanian Governor – John Hunyad (Iancu de Hunedoara). The castle built in XV century is the biggest medieval castle in Romania and it’s also considered to be one of the most haunted places in the world!- Next stop will be at Alba Iulia. Having its origins back in 2nd century from Roman time, the city of Alba Iulia offers a journey through the history of Transylvania from ancient times to medieval and modern days. We’ll visit the ruins of the Roman town, the medieval fortifications, the modern fortifications made in Vauban style, the Cathoilc Cathedral – the oldest from Transylvania and the Reunion Cathedral which commemorates the Union of all Romanian

provinces in a single country.- Return to Sibiu- Overnight in SibiuB

Day 3:ROUTING: SIBIU – MEDIAS – BISTRITA – BORGO PASS- Breakfast- Walking tour of the Sibiu’s Old District. Sibiu is one of the most important fortified towns in Transylvania.. The city is reminiscent of old European cities such as Nuremburg and it was founded in 1190 and grew to be the chief city of the Transylvanian Saxons. This amazing town, with the "Old Town" (The Big Square, the Small Square, the Ursuline Church, The Franciscan Church, The staircase Tower, the Tanners Tower, the Lier’s Bridge , the House of the Butcher’s Guild and last but not least with the amazing Bruckenthal Museum) is a gorgeous place to see.- Next we’ll pass the city of Medias which host the impressive Margareth Cathedral and its Trompet’s Tower, one of the most slided buildings from the world.Then we’ll go on the route to Bistrita. Optional you have the possibility to serve lunch at the “Golden Crown” Restaurant – Bistrita, The hotel is outstanding in Romania and in the world, as it was described in the well known nouvel "DRACULA" by the Irishman Bram Stoker. One of the main characters in the novel, the lawyer Jonathan Harker, was also a guest of the hotel and he felt here as confortable as at home. Here the tourists can enjoy a blood taste - a unique drink: blood-red liquor, an exclusive beverage of the Golden Crown Restaurant.- We pass Bistrita, the setting for much of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, at km 108, followed by Bargau Valley we will find the Hotel Castle Dracula in Piatra Fintinele.Birgau Valley has a very dramatic scenery, with huge hills draped in forests of fir trees and with villages appearing as living monuments to a way of life unchanged for centuries, with the Saxon House Museum from Livezile village, attesting a former Saxon population in this region (established here in the 12 and 13 centuries).The Borgo Pass is the border between Transylvania and Bucovina, with fantastic landscapes. The Hotel situated on a 1116m altitude with a fantastic view of the Carpathian mountains. The Hotel dates from 1983, built in the style of a medieval mansion, it was created to bring alive an authentic Dracula atmosphere. - Overnight in Piatra FantaneleB

Day 4:ROUTING: BORGO PASS – BIERTAN - SIGHISOARA- Breakfast

- Depart for Sighisoara- On the way stop at Biertan Fortified Church, dating from XVI century and a former evangelical bishops headquarter.- Visit Sighisoara the medieval city and fortress including the famous Clock Tower, the History Museum and the Torture Room. In 1431, the storey house at Museum Square 6, within the shadow of the old town's Clock Tower, a women whose name is lost to posterity gave birth to a son called Vlad, who in later life earned the title of The Impaler , abroad better known as Dracula, derived from Dracul or the Devil referring to his father Vlad Dracul, whom the Holy Roman Emperor Sigismund of Hungary made a knight of the order of The Dargon in 1431. The Clock Tower, the Church on the Hill, the Scholars Stairs, The Monastery Church, the towers of the citadel (originally fourteen), The Shoemakers Town, the Tailors Tower, the Tinsmiths Tower are only a few of the marvels of this place called Sighisoara.- Then we are off to the famous Borgo Pass via Targu Mures- Stop in Bistrita to enjoy a panoramic tour- Bistrita is where Bram Stoker based the setting for his novel "Dracula"- The capital of the Northern Bistrita-Nasaud County has several well preserved medieval buildings, an Orthodox church dating from the 13th century and a county Museum- The Golden Crown is outstanding in Romania and in the world, as it was described in the well known novel "DRACULA" by the Irishman Bram Stoker. One of the main characters in the novel, the lawyer Jonathan Harker, was also a guest of the hotel and he felt here as comfortable as at home. Here the tourists can enjoy a blood taste - a unique drink: blood-red liquor, an exclusive beverage of the Golden Crown Restaurant.- We pass Bistrita, the setting for much of Bram Stoker's Dracula, at km 108, followed by Bargau Valley we will find the Hotel Castle Dracula in Piatra Fintinele.- Birgau Valley has a very dramatic scenery, with huge hills draped in forests of fir trees and with villages appearing as living monuments to a way of life unchanged for centuries, with the Saxon House Museum from Livezile village, attesting a former Saxon population in this region (established here in the 12 and 13 centuries).- The Borgo Pass is the border between Transylvania and Bucovina, with fantastic landscapes. The Hotel situated on a 1116m altitude with a fantastic view of the Carpathian mountains. The Hotel dates from 1983, built in the style of a medieval mansion, it was created to bring alive an authentic Dracula atmosphere. - Overnight in SighisoaraB

Day 5:ROUTING: SIGHISOARA – PREJMER – BRAN - BRASOV- Breakfast- we’ll leave Sighisoara on the route to Brasov area. The road will pass through beautiful german villages and one can admire their architecture and also couple citadels or churches which can be seen from the road as Rupea, Saschiz, Rotbav, aso.- First stop will be at Prejmer Fortified Church, one of the best preserved of its kind in Eastern Europe. The church is modeled after churches of Jerusalem, as well as built in the style of Early Gothic churches from the Rhineland. The

concept of a fortified church as it is presented an Prejmer is unique in Europe and can be seen only in Transylvania.

- Continue our route to Bran and visit the famous Bran Castle. Also called Dracula`s Castle, it is situated not far from Brasov (25 kilometres) at the entrance in the Bran - Rucar passage. The castle got its fame from Dracula`s legend written in 1897 by Bram Stoker and later on made into a film by Francis Ford Coppola.. The first documents about the Bran Castle appeared in 1377. Along the history, the Castle had a strategic mission being the border between Transylvania and Wallachia. First it was under the rule of the King of Hungary Sigismund of Luxemburg, of the Romanian voievodes Mircea cel Batran and Vlad Tepes and later on it came under the jurisdiction of the City of Brasov. In the XX century the castle was donated to the royal family and becamed a royal residence. The museum preserve the furniture and objects from that period.- End the day in Brasov. short tour of the magic medieval center of Brasov (2 hours). The city of Brasov is one of the oldest in Europe, dating from 1235. During the Middle Ages, Brasov was known as a powerful fortress surrounded by high stone walls and defended by bulwarks, towers and other small fortresses. The buildings and the streets in the historical centre still preserve a medieval note. Concil Square, Black Church, White and Black Towers, Weaver’s Bastion and Ecaterina’s Gate are the tour highlights. - Overnight in BrasovB

Day 6:ROUTING: BRASOV – SINAIA – SNAGOV - BUCHAREST- Breakfast- We’ll go to Sinaia and visit the Peles Castle, former summer residence of the kings of Romania, the Peles Castle is 44 kilometers from Brasov, in Sinaia, a well-known mountain resort as well. Nowadays the Castle is one of the most important museums in Transylvania where one can admire furniture and ornamental objects, carpets, tapestry, sculptures, paintings, collections of weapons from the 15th up to the19th centuries.- Then will go to Snagov, a small village 40 km north of Bucharest, with its beautiful sixteen kilometer long lake; In the centre of the lake is an island occupied by a monastery, built in 1519. The Snagov monastery is situated on the island of the lake with the same name, we have to reach the monastery by crossing the lake by boat (If time and weather permit).Visitors come here to seek the tomb of Dracula sitting in the front of the church altar. Vlad's murder is believed to have occurred in the forests nearby, where the monks took his body, since both Vlad and his father had both given money to the monastery.- Drop off at Bucharest International Airport (estimated time 2.30-3.00 PM) or at another location in BucharestB


The Tour Includes:- 5 nights accommodation - Transportation by private car or minivan- Local English-Speaking Specialist Driver/Guide- Local Taxes

IMPERIAL CITIES TOUR


EUR 2.025,00 per person / in double room

1. day PRAGUE / CZECH REPUBLICArrive in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. Make your way to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Prague, in the hotel of your choice.

2. day PRAGUE / CZECH REPUBLICBuffet breakfast at your hotel. Your morning historical city tour includes the St. Vitus Cathedral, the Hradcany Castle, the Loreto Church, the Old Town Square, the Tyn Church, the Charles Bridge, the Wenceslas Square and the old Jewish Quarter. The rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Prague. (B)

3. day PRAGUE / CZECH REPUBLICFull day at leisure. After buffet breakfast at your hotel, you might want to visit a couple of the famous Bohemian Castles. First , the Karlstejn Castle, built in the 14th century. Continue to the former hunting lodge Konopiste, with a fascinating collection of historical weapons, furnishings, late Gothic paintings, tapestries & hunting trophies. Overnight in Prague. (B)

4. day PRAGUE / VIENNA / CZECH REPUBLIC / AUSTRIABuffet breakfast at your hotel. After breakfast, check out and make your way to the Train Station. Your train ride to Vienna, - the city of Music - takes about 5 hours. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Overnight in Vienna. (B)

5. day VIENNA / AUSTRIABuffet breakfast at your hotel. After breakfast, guided city tour of Vienna, visiting all the major monument of this magnificent city. Overnight in Vienna. (B)

6. day VIENNA / AUSTRIAToday is at leisure. Have a late breakfast at the hotel. You might want to take a tour to Wachau, visiting the Danube valley, Durnstein and Melk. Overnight in Vienna. (B)

7. day VIENNA / SALZBURG / AUSTRIA / AUSTRIAAfter buffet breakfast at your hotel, check out and take the train to Salzburg, the city of Mozart. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Rest of the afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Salzburg. (B)

8. day VIENNA / AUSTRIABuffet breakfast at your hotel. After breakfast, guided Grand Sightseeing Tour of Salzburg, including Mozart's birthplace. Overnight in Salzburg. (B)

9. day SALZBURG / AUSTRIAToday is at leisure. Have a late breakfast at the hotel. You might go for a walk afterwards, maybe taste the famous Austrian espresso in a cosy Cafe. Perhaps, you would like to visit the countryside, the beautiful Lake District Overnight in Salzburg. (B)

10. day SALZBURG / BUDAPEST / AUSTRIA / HUNGARYBuffet breakfast at the hotel. Check out and take the train to the capital of Hungary, Budapest. The rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Budapest. (B)

11. day BUDAPEST / HUNGARYBuffet breakfast at your hotel. After breakfast guided sightseeing tour of Budapest, the including the Royal Castle, the Matthias Church, the Fisherman's Bastion, the Parliament, the Heroes'Square and the Cathedral of St.Stephen. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Budapest. (B)

12. day BUDAPEST / HUNGARY

Buffet breakfast at your hotel. After breakfast spend the day at your leisure. You might want to visit Szentendre and walk around the charming main square or look for souvenirs and antiques in the tiny boutiques. Overnight in Budapest. (B)

13. day BUDAPEST / HUNGARYBuffet breakfast at the hotel. End of your independent rail tour. (B)

Accommodation

3 nights in Prague, Czech Republic 3 nights in Vienna, Austria 3 nights in Salzburg, Austria 3 nights in Budapest, Hungary

Meals

Buffet breakfast daily

Tours

Half day guided city tour in each city

Transportation

Train ticket throughout

* Tax and Service Charge* During Formula 1 in Budapest (July 25 - 28, 2014), higher rates may apply.

CENTRAL EUROPE TRIANGLE TOUR



1. dayBUDAPEST / HUNGARY

Arrive in Budapest, the capital of Hungary. Make your way to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Budapest, in the hotel of your choice.


Buffet breakfast at your hotel. After breakfast guided city tour of Budapest, including the Royal Castle, the Matthias Church, the Fisherman's Bastion, the Parliament, the Heroes' Square and the Cathedral of St.Stephen. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Budapest. (B)


Buffet breakfast at your hotel. After breakfast spend the day at your leisure. You might want to visit Szentendre and walk around the charming main square or look for souvenirs and antiques in the tiny boutiques. In the afternoon we suggest to visit a museum on your own or do some shopping. Stop for coffee and cake at the world famous "Gerbeaud" Cafe House, located at the main shopping street "Váci utca". In the evening, you might want to enjoy a cultural performance. Overnight in Budapest. (B)

4. dayBUDAPEST / VIENNA / HUNGARY / AUSTRIA

Buffet breakfast at your hotel. After breakfast, make your way to the Railway Station. The 3 hour train ride to Vienna, takes you through the spectacular Hungarian countryside. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. We suggest, that for tonight, plan a fun dinner in Grinzing, the wine growing village in the outskirts of Vienna. In Grinzing's "Heurigen" restaurants dinner is always accompanied by "Schrammel" music, played by a quartet of instruments. Overnight in Vienna. (B)

5. dayVIENNA / AUSTRIA

Buffet breakfast at your hotel. After breakfast, guided Grand Sightseeing Tour of Vienna, including the Ringstrasse, the Vienna State Opera House, the Hofburg Palace, the Museums of Fine Arts and Natural History, the Parliament, the City Hall and the University. You will also visit the Baroque gardens of the Belvedere Palace and the magnificent Imperial Rooms of the Schönbrunn Palace. Overnight in Vienna (B)

6. dayVIENNA / AUSTRIA

Today is at leisure. Have a late breakfast at the hotel. You might go for a walk afterwards, maybe taste the famous Sacher torte in a cosy Cafe. Overnight in Vienna. (B)

7. dayVIENNA / PRAGUE / AUSTRIA / CZECH REPUBLIC

After buffet breakfast at your hotel, check out and take the train to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Rest of the afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Prague (B)

8. dayPRAGUE / CZECH REPUBLIC

Buffet breakfast at your hotel. Your morning historical city tour includes the St. Vitus Cathedral, the Hradcany Castle, the Loreto Church, the Old Town Square,

the Tyn Church, the Charles Bridge, the Wenceslas Square and the old Jewish Quarter. The rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Prague. (B)


Full day at leisure. After buffet breakfast at your hotel, you might want to visit a couple of the famous Bohemian Castles. First , the Karlstejn Castle, built in the 14th century. Continue to the former hunting lodge Konopiste, with a fascinating collection of historical weapons and furnishings. Overnight in Prague. (B)


Buffet breakfast at the hotel. End of the tour. (B)

Accommodation

3 nights in Budapest, Hungary 3 nights in Vienna, Austria 3 nights in Prague, Czech Republic

Meals

Buffet breakfast daily

Tours

Half day historical city tour in Budapest, Vienna and Prague

Transportation

Train ticket throughout

* Tax and Service Charge* In Budapest from July 25 - 27, 2014 and Dec. 29 - Jan. 02, 2015 higher rates may apply.

GRAND TOUR OF EASTERN EUROPE FROM MOSCOW TO VIENNA

19 days / 18 nightsMoscow, Novgorod, St-Petersburg, Tallin, Riga, Vilnius, Warsaw, Krakow, Prague and Vienna

Starting from

EUR 3.2 99,00 per person / in double room –

Day 1 Moscow Arrival Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax.

Day 2 in MoscowMoscow, one of the largest cities in the world, is the symbolic heart and soul of the country. Sightseeing begins at the Red Square, dominated by St. Basil's Cathedral and by the massive red walls of the Kremlin. Visit the Armory Museum, proceed to see the Moscow University and the popular Arbat shopping district. Continue with a drive along the wide boulevards and then stroll through GUM, Russia's largest department store. Rest of the day is at leisure. You may take part in an optional tour by night of Moscow and its subway.

Day 3 to Tver and NovgorodAfter breakfast, depart to the historic Novgorod, founded almost twelve centuries ago.

Day 4 to St. PetersburgA morning sightseeing tour of Novgorod starts at the Kremlin with a visit to St. Sophia Cathedral. Then, cross the river via a pedestrian bridge to visit the Yaroslav Court. In the afternoon, travel north to St. Petersburg, the former capital of the Romanov Czars. Upon arrival enjoy a first sightseeing tour of the city starting with the visit of Peter and Paul Fortress, quarter of the City museum and its cathedral, which houses the crypt of the Russian emperors. Next, visit St. Isaac's Cathedral.

Day 5, in St. PetersburgThere are not many cities in the world that can match the grace of St. Petersburg. When Peter the Great founded the city in 1703, he hired Europe's best architects, craftsmen and artists to build and decorate it. Spread over 100 islands linked by over 600 bridges, it is often referred to as "Venice of the North". This morning sightseeing tour will feature highlight: the world-famous Hermitage, which houses many treasures from the Czarist era. The rest of the day is free at leisure. An optional tour to visit Petrodvorets, Peter the Great’s Summer Palace, will be available. In the evening you may take part in an optional tour featuring a folklore performance.

Day 6, to TallinnJourney to Estonia to Tallinn, capital of Estonia and situated on the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland.

Day 7, to RigaOn a walking tour of the Upper and Lower Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, visit orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Next, visit Toompea Castle and see the 14th century gothic Town Hall. This afternoon, on to Riga, the capital of Latvia.

Day 8, in RigaDuring your sightseeing tour, see Riga Castle, the magnificent Dome Cathedral, St. Jacobs Cathedral, St. Peter's Church, the Parliament building, Liberty Monument and the district of Art Nouveau houses. Your afternoon is free.

Day 9, to VilniusMorning departure for Vilnius, capital of Lithuania. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 10, in VilniusThe city of Vilnius is located on the confluence of the Neris and Velnele Rivers. In Old Vilnius, visit Peter and Paul Church and St. Anna's Church. View Vilnius University, dating back to 1570, Gediminas' Tower in the Upper Town and Vilnius Castle. The afternoon is free or you may take an optional excursion to Trakai.

Day 11, to WarsawCross the border into Poland and reach Warsaw at day's end.

Day 12, in WarsawThis 700 year old capital of Poland is a symbol of nationhood and the will to survive against great odds. A sightseeing tour here includes a drive along the famous Royal Route from magnificent Castle Square to Lazienki Park and Palace, summer residence of the last king of Poland. Pass by the Palace of Science and Culture (known as a "wedding cake"), the Saxon Gardens, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto and the Barbican. Continue with the walking tour of the Old Town, Old Market Square and St. John's Cathedral. The rest of the day is free for relaxing, shopping, a stroll through the city or an optional late afternoon Chopin concert. (B)

Day 13, to KrakowThis morning, journey to Czestochowa, known for the blackened picture of St. Mary in the Yasna Gora Monastery, popularly called the "Black Madonna". In the afternoon, there is time for an optional side trip to one of the most somber memorials of the past, Auschwitz. End your day in Krakow.

Day 14, in KrakowYour sightseeing tour starts with a visit to the Wawel Hill, viewing the Royal Castle and visiting the Royal Cathedral. Enjoy a walking tour of the Old Town where you will visit the Main Market Square, Renaissance Cloth Hall and St. Mary's Church. The afternoon is free for a stroll around the city.

Day 15, to PragueAfter a drive through the Polish countryside, cross the borders of Slovakia and Czech Republic. Then, on to Prague, with its Baroque churches, promenades, parks and ancient city walls.

Day 16, in PragueBuilt on seven hills more than 1000 years ago and spread over both banks of the river Vltava, Prague is one of the most attractive cities in Europe. Your city tour starts with panoramic drive to the famous Wenceslas Square, the Strahov Stadium and the Castle Square. On a walking tour, visit the Royal Castle of Hradcany with Cathedral of St. Vitus, Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica and Golden Lane with Daliborka Tower. Cross the Charles Bridge and walk through the old quarter of Prague to view the Jewish Ghetto, the Town Hall and the world famous Astronomical Clock. The rest of the day is free. An optional visit to a cultural performance will be available.

Day 17, to ViennaToday's destination is Vienna, the "City of Waltz", and one of Europe's loveliest cities.

Day 18, in ViennaOn your morning sightseeing tour, visit the Hofburg Palace, once the seat of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and view the Belvedere Palace, Prater amusement park, the UN buildings, St. Stephen's Cathedral and other vivid reminders of the city's imperial history. Afternoon is at leisure. Farwell dinner in a local restaurant. (B,D)

Day 19, Vienna - DepartureAfter breakfast transfer to the airport for your departure flight. (B)

Tour Includes:

First class hotels, rooms with private facilities Service charges and hotel taxes Breakfast daily Airport transfers Sightseeing tours as per itinerary in Moscow, Novgorod, St Petersburg,

Tallinn , Riga Vilnius, Warsaw, Krakow, Prague, Vienna

BALTIC CAPITALS

7 days / 6 nightsVilnius, Riga, Tallin

Starting from

EUR 850,00 per person / in double room –

Day 1: VILNIUSArrival in Vilnius. Individual transfer to the hotel .Check-in at the hotel.

OVERNIGHT

Day 2: VILNIUS-TRAKAI-VILNIUS ( 50 km) 9:00 a.m. a city tour of Vilnius, capital of Lithuania for more than 600 years. The tour includes: St.Peter and Paul’s Church, Gediminas Castle, Cathedral Square with St. Stanislaw Cathedral and Bell tower, St.Ann and Bernardines’ Church, Amber gallery-museum, Užupis -one of the oldest districts of Vilnius, mentioned in the historical sources as far back as the 16th century, novo days the artists’ “republic”, which has its own constitution, national anthem, calendar and map, the Gates of Dawn with a holy image of the Virgin Mary, Russian Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit, Town Hall Square and Vilnius University (founded in 1579) with St. John’s Church.

Afternoon trip to Trakai (25 km from Vilnius), the former capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Visit to the insular castle of the 14th century, erected on a small island in the lake Galve. Return to Vilnius. OVERNIGHT

Day 3: VILNIUS- HILL OF CROSSES-RUNDALE-RIGA (380 km)departure by train to Riga, the capital of Latvia. Arrival in Riga, check-in at the hotel. OVERNIGHT: Riga

Day 4 Monday: RIGA a city tour of Riga. A combined coach and walking tour encompasses the most significant sights of Riga: driving along the central boulevards of Riga, enjoying the view of the City Canal Parks, the Bastion Hill, the Powder Tower, the Latvian National Theatre, the Fine Arts Museum, the Art Nouveau Buildings of the beginning of the 20th century, the Freedom Monument, University of Latvia, Latvian National Opera House and the Daugava River. During the walking part of the tour you will enjoy the beauty of the ancient Hanseatic City: picturesque streets of the Old Town, the Dome Cathedral, the Church of St.Peter, the old Guild Houses, the Swedish Gate, St.Jacob’s Church, the Parliament House, Old Riga Castle. Following the visit of the famous market halls of Riga..Afternoon optional: excursion to Jurmala. OVERNIGHT

Day 5 Tuesday: RIGA-P�RNU-TALLINN (300 km)departure for Tallinn -Arrival in Tallinn, check-in at the hotel. OVERNIGHT

Day 6 Wednesday: TALLINN city tour of Tallinn, visiting the Old Town of Tallinn - an example of Gothic architecture in the Baltic and Nordic countries. The tour includes Toompea Castle fortifications, the Dome Church (13th century), the Russian Orthodox

Cathedral of Alexander Nevsky (19th century), Town Hall Square (15th century), St. Catherine's Passage, where artists of St. Catherine guild present their work, St.Olaf’s Church. Afternoon optional: excursion to Kadriorg Park and visit to Kadriorg Palace. OVERNIGHT

Day 7 Thursday: TALLINN Breakfast. End of the tour.

THE TOUR INCLUDES:� 6 nights at the 4 star hotels � All hotel taxes� Buffet breakfast daily

� Excursions as per itinerary� Entrances to: St. Peter and Paul’s Church, Vilnius University with St. John’s Church, St. Stanislaw Cathedral, Amber gallery- museum and Russian Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit in Vilnius, Trakai castle, Rundale Palace, the Dome Church, St.Jacob’s Church and St. Mary Magdalene's Church in Riga, the Dome Church and Orthodox Cathedral of Alexander Nevsky in Tallinn.

RUSSIA, BALTIC AND POLAND

13 days / 12 nightsMoscow, Novgorod, St-Petersburg, Tallin , Riga, Vilnius, Warsaw

Starting from

EUR 2.450,00 per person / in double room –

Day 1 Moscow Arrival Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax.

Day 2 MoscowMoscow, one of the largest cities in the world, is the symbolic heart and soul of the country. Sightseeing begins at the Red Square, dominated by St. Basil's Cathedral and by the massive red walls of the Kremlin. Visit the Armory Museum, proceed to see the Moscow University and the popular Arbat shopping district. Continue with a drive along the wide boulevards and then stroll through GUM, Russia's largest department store. Rest of the day is at leisure. You may take part in an optional tour by night of Moscow and its subway.

Day 3 NovgorodAfter breakfast, depart for the historic Novgorod, founded almost twelve centuries ago.

Day 4 St. PetersburgA morning sightseeing tour of Novgorod starts at the Kremlin with a visit to St. Sophia Cathedral. Then, cross the river via a pedestrian bridge to visit the Yaroslav Court. In the afternoon, travel north to St. Petersburg, the former capital of the Romanov Czars. Upon arrival enjoy a first sightseeing tour of the city starting with the visit of Peter and Paul Fortress, quarter of the City museum and its cathedral, which houses the crypt of the Russian emperors. Next, visit St. Isaac's Cathedral.

Day 5 St. PetersburgThere are not many cities in the world that can match the grace of St. Petersburg. When Peter the Great founded the city in 1703, he hired Europe's best architects, craftsmen and artists to build and decorate it. Spread over 100 islands linked by over 600 bridges, it is often referred to as "Venice of the North". This morning sightseeing tour will feature highlight: the world-famous Hermitage, which houses many treasures from the Czarist era. The rest of the day is free at leisure. An optional tour to visit Petrodvorets, Peter the Great’s Summer Palace, will be available. In the evening you may take part in an optional tour featuring a folklore performance.

Day 6 to TallinnJourney to Estonia to Tallinn, capital of Estonia and situated on the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland

Day 7 RigaOn a walking tour of the Upper and Lower Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, visit orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Next, visit Toompea Castle and see the 14th century gothic Town Hall. This afternoon, on to Riga, the capital of Latvia.

Day 8 RigaDuring your sightseeing tour, see Riga Castle, the magnificent Dome Cathedral, St. Jacobs Cathedral, St. Peter's Church, the Parliament building, Liberty Monument and the district of Art Nouveau houses. Your afternoon is free.

Day 9 VilniusMorning departure for Vilnius, capital of Lithuania. The rest of the day is at leisure

Day 10 VilniusThe city of Vilnius is located on the confluence of the Neris and Velnele Rivers. In Old Vilnius, visit Peter and Paul Church and St. Anna's Church. View Vilnius University, dating back to 1570, Gediminas' Tower in the Upper Town and Vilnius Castle. The afternoon is free or you may take an optional excursion to Trakai.

Day 11 WarsawCross the border into Poland and reach Warsaw at day's end

Day 12 WarsawThis 700 year old capital of Poland is a symbol of nationhood and the will to survive against great odds. A sightseeing tour here includes a drive along the

famous Royal Route from magnificent Castle Square to Lazienki Park and Palace, summer residence of the last king of Poland. Pass by the Palace of Science and Culture (known as a "wedding cake"), the Saxon Gardens, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto and the Barbican. Continue with the walking tour of the Old Town, Old Market Square and St. John's Cathedral. The rest of the day is free for relaxing, shopping, a stroll through the city or an optional late afternoon Chopin concert.

Day 13 Departure from WarsawAfter breakfast transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

Tour Includes:

First class hotels, rooms with private facilities Service charges and hotel taxes Breakfast Airport transfers Sightseeing tours as per itinerary in Moscow, Novgorod, St Petersburg,

Tallinn , Riga Vilnius, Warsaw

RUSSIA TOUR: MOSCOW AND ST-PETERSBURG



Day1 Arrival to Moscow. Transfer to hotel. Day at leisure.Day2 Breakfast at hotel Panoramic city sightseeing tour. Evening at

Leisure. Kremlin grounds tour with Assumption Cathedral Entrance. Walk tour on Stary Arbat. Lunch at restaurant "Hard Rock Cafe" with Russian cuisine. Metro tour.

Day3 Breakfast at hotel. Full day Sergiev Posad tour. Visiting Trinity-St. Sergius Lavra, Monasteries and museums. Lunch in the restaurant near Monastery.

Day 4 Breakfast at hotel. Noon transfer to the train station and speed SAPSAN train departure to St. Petersburg. Arrival in St. Petersburg. Transfer to hotel.

Day5 Breakfast at hotel. Panoramic city sightseeing tour including visit to St. Isaac Cathedral, Peter and Paul Fortress. Cruise by Neva river and canals.

Day6 Breakfast at hotel. Hermitage tour. Afternoon at leisure.Day7 Breakfast at hotel. Full day Pushkin tour - Ekaterina the Great

Palace (with Amber room) and park. Lunch at local restaurant.Day8 Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to airport or railway station

The price of the tour includes:

3nights accommodation in Moscow and 4nights accommodation in

St Petersburg including breakfast at selected hotel categories

Transfers by comfortable bus, English speaking guide during the tour, Lunches at restaurant «Hard Rock Cafe», in Sergiev Posad and in

Petergof, All the entrance fees, Economy class train ticket Moscow – St. Petersburg

GRAND TOUR OF POLAND



This tour is the most detailed introduction to Poland, the country in North-Eastern Europe with an eventful and many times very painful history. From a thousand year-old kingdom to the eastern showcase of the EU, this country offers the best of West and East with highlights like Krakow, Warsaw, Gdansk and Wroclaw as some of its most attractive medieval cities.

DAY 1 ● WARSAWAfter arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city. The afternoon is free.

DAY 2 ● WARSAW

This morning, we introduce you to the highlights of Warsaw. A half-day sightseeing tour includes Old Town, beautifully rebuilt after World War II, with the impressive Royal Castle, seat of the kings of Poland. Here the Constitution of May 3rd was proclaimed in 1791, the second oldest constitution, after the US Constitution, in the world. You will admire some of its 300 rooms and see there Canaletto Room with 23 of his paintings, the Throne Room, the magnificent Knight’s Hall with six large paintings by Marcello Bacciarelli, the Marble room with its 22 portraits of Polish kings and the largest and most impressive of all the castle’s chambers, the Ballroom. After lunch, we continue our tour with a drive to the area of the former Warsaw Ghetto.

En route, you will see the building of the National Opera House and Town Hall. During your tour of Warsaw we invite you to the famous Warsaw chocolate

factory "Wedel" to taste the delicious hot chocolate at the "Wedel Old Fashioned Shop." This evening you will take an unforgettable musical journey through theworld famous compositions of our greatest composer, Frederic Chopin, in a piano recital. A glass of sparkling wine will be served during intermission.

DAY 3 ● WARSAW – CZESTOCHOWA – AUSCHWITZ – KRAKOW (Breakfast, Lunch)The road to Krakow, Poland’s unique, medieval, open-air museum, leads us past Czestochowa, site of Jasna Gora and the Black Madonna, venerated as Poland’s holiest icon. Lunch will be served a local restaurant in Czestochowa. En route to Krakow, we also stop at Auschwitz, site of the concentration camp, where millions lost their lives in the crematoria during the Holocaust.

DAY 4 ● KRAKOW The morning sightseeing tour will feature Wawel, the Royal Castle, home to three dynasties of Poland’s monarchs. Ist stately halls and exquisite chambers are filled with priceless art, valuable period furniture and rare ancient objects. The collection of monumental 16th century tapestries is matchless. You will also visit Wawel Cathedral, the place of the cult of St. Stanislaw and St. Jadwiga, Queen of Poland. Its 18 chapels are true architectural masterpieces. The giant bell, Zygmunt from 1520 ranks with the world’s largest. This is the place where Polish kings were crowned and buried. Following a short break for coffee and cake at the famous Krakow cafeteria and drive to Old Town with its renewed Main Square of magnificent houses and palaces.There, you will stop at St. Mary’s Basilica to see the magnificent wooden altarby Wit Stwosz. In the middle of the square is Cloth Hall built before 1349, but renovated in the 16th century with many shopping stalls inside. The afternoon is at leisure

DAY 5 ● KRAKOW – WIELICZKA – ZAKOPANE

After breakfast, we drive to Zakopane, a resort high in the Tatra Mountains, a great area for walking and hiking and shopping for local folk art. On the way, we stop at the Wieliczka Salt Mine for a tour of its chapels, grottoes, lakes andmagnificent cathedral, all carved from rock salt. After lunch at a local restaurant in Wieliczka, we drive to Zakopane beautifully situated at the foot of the Tatra Mountains in the valley between Gubalowka and Giewont. It is Poland’s most popular resort and one of the most beautiful places owing to its picturesque location. Once, a small mountain village, Zakopane has become a fashionable winter resort for artists since the beginning of the 20th century.

DAY 6 ● ZAKOPANE In the morning, you will have a sightseeing tour of Zakopane, whose wooden architecture blends with the natural landscapes. Copied in other parts of

Poland, it is known as Zakopianski Style. You will visit the Jaszczurowka Chapel, a great example of wooden architecture in Zakopane, and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima at Krzeptowki, which was built by the people of Zakopane to thank the Lady of Fatima for saving the Pope after an attempt on His life. Admire the breathtaking view from the top of Gubalowka, then have time to shop for souvenirs of arts and crafts of the Highlanders (Gorale) in the local shops. After lunch on your own you will have free time.

DAY 7 ● ZAKOPANE – WADOWICE – WROCLAW

Today we depart for western Poland and the historic city of Wroclaw. Known as "Venice of the North", it is one of the oldest cities in Poland, capital of Lower Silesia, with a beautiful location along the Odra River. En route, we stop inWadowice, the birthplace of John Paul II. After lunch at a local restaurant, we will see the house where he was born and grew up. From the window of his bedroom he used to see a clock with the sign “Time flies, eternity awaits”. In the Basilica of Wadowice, where Karol Wojtyla, Pope John Paul II, was baptized you can still see the special plaque that commemorates this fact as well as a stone font where the Pope prayed during His first pilgrimage to Poland in 1979. From here, we continue our journey to Wroclaw. Today, Wroclaw with itsbeautiful historical buildings like Town Hall in Market Square is recognized as a gem of urban Gothic-Renaissance urban architecture in Poland.

DAY 8 ● WROCLAW – RYDZYNA

After breakfast, we visit Panorama Raclawicka - a single painting arranged along the interior walls of a rotunda as one unbroken circle and viewed from an elevated central balcony. The picture represents the battle of Raclawice, fought on April 4th, 1794 between the Polish insurrectionist army led by Tadeusz Kosciuszko, and Russian troops. From here, we drive to Rydzyna and stay overnight

DAY 9 ● RYDZYNA – POZNAN – TORUN

Today, we leave for Torun with a brief stop for sightseeing tour in the historic city of Poznan. The first settlement here canbe traced back to the early 9th century. The first ruler of Poland, Mieszko I, who baptized the country, founded his church right here. The church was rebuilt after the war. In the 15th century it took on a Gothic shape. The most interesting part of the city is Old Town with its famous Renaissance Town Hall, now housing the Historic Museum. In the middle of the attic, above the clock, you can see two metal goats butting their horns 12 times every day at noon. After lunch at a local restaurant, we continue to Torun.

DAY 10 ● TORUN – GDANSKIn the morning, take a tour of Torun, the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus and one of the most magnificent historic citiesof Poland. Its Old Town has been included in the UNESCO’s list for its impressive 13th century Town Hall, superb

churches and streets that recall Torun’s past glory. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant in Torun. In the afternoon, we drive to Gdansk where we will get acquainted with the city on a brief walk through its Old Town.

DAY 11 ● GDANSK – GDYNIA – SOPOT

Today, we tour Gdansk in depth. We start from the Upland Gate - a fragment of the city's former fortifications and one of its main gates. Just behind it, we pass by a baked-brick construction consisting of the Prison Tower and the Torture House- relics of the 15th century Gothic defense walls. The Golden Gate, situated next to the Prison Tower, opens onto Long Market - a magnificent street, with grand mansions decorated with late Renaissance and Baroque facades. A real feast for the eyes!!! It is here that the richest burghers of Gdansk once lived. Next, we come upon the Main Town and the Artus Court - a building used for Hanseatic League meetings. It is renowned as the most beautiful court among all of Europe’sHanseatic cities. Just behind it stands the tower of St. Mary's Basilica, a part of the most precious and largest red-brick Gothic church in Gdansk. On our way back we pass by Mariacka Street, with its gabled terraced houses and elegantboutiques. From here we drive to Gdynia, youngest of the tri-city complex, which also includes Sopot. Here we visit Oliwa Cathedral famous for its one-of-a-kind pipe organ, to enjoy a concert. After lunch at a local restaurant, we continue our drive to Sopot, the famous and fashionable seaside resort. Here you can still see the oldest and longest wooden pier in Europe. The balance of the day is free and gives you time for shopping Baltic arts and crafts, including unique amber jewelry and trinkets.

DAY 12 ● GDANSK – MALBORK – OLSZTYN

After breakfast, we drive to Olsztyn. We stop at the Teutonic Knights Castle in Malbork. It is the largest brick building in Europe and one of Poland’s greatest tourist attractions. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we continue to Olsztyn, a town located in a region of lakes and forests. The most attractive part of the city is the old town, encircled by a set of fortified walls. In the evening, take part in an open-air picnic with folkloric entertainment in Gietrzwlad.

DAY 13 ● OLSZTYN – OLSZTYNEK – LOWICZ – WARSAW

After breakfast, we return to Warsaw. On the way, we visit the Ethnographic Park in Olsztynek, site of the Museum of Folk Architecture, one of the oldest open-air museums in Europe. The Museum contains many interesting examples of folk architecture, including houses, barns, windmills and other traditional buildings. A particular attraction of the Ethnographical Park are the interiors of

old houses, the evangelical church, a smithy, a pottery stand, a Dutch windmill as well as various temporary displays representing items of traditional craftsmanship and modern folk art and handicraft from the region.

The main objective of the Museum is to preserve the legacy of the past for future generations and to encourage the study of the rich cultural and spiritual values of days gone by. In the afternoon, as we continue our drive to Warsaw, we will stop in Lowicz, a typical Mazovian town famous for folk art: especially noteworthy are the colorful costumes and beautiful paper cut-outs. You will be invited for a home-hosted dinner by a local family, whose charming cottage islocated at the foot of the former Lowicz Castle. we continue your drive to Warsaw.

DAY 14 Friday ● WARSAW

After breakfast this morning, we transfer you to the airport for the return flight home.

• Airport transfers (only on tour start and end date) • Selected class hotels, rooms with private facilities • English-speaking tour escort assistance • Obligatory local guides • Private air-conditioned motor coach/minibus/car (depending on the group size) • Meals as per itinerary: breakfast daily,

• Sightseeing tours as per itinerary

• Chopin concert with a glass of sparkling wine

THE BEST OF POLAND



Day 1. ● WARSAWAfter arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city. The afternoon is free.

DAY 2 Sunday ● WARSAW.

After breakfast city tour of Warsaw. A half-day sightseeing tour includes Old Town, beautifully rebuilt after World War II, with the impressive Royal Castle, seat of the kings of Poland. Here the Constitution of May 3rd was proclaimed in 1791, the second oldest constitution, after the US Constitution, in the world. You will admire some of its 300 rooms and see the Canaletto Room with 23 of his paintings, the Throne Room, the magnificent Knight’s Hall with six large paintings by Marcello Bacciarelli, the Marble room with its 22 portraits of Polish kings and the largest and most impressive of all the castle’s chambers, the Ballroom. After lunch served at a local restaurant in Old Town, we continue our tour with a drive to the area of the former Warsaw Ghetto. En route, you will see the building of the National Opera House and Town Hall. During your tour of Warsaw. This evening you will have a chance to listen to a piano recital of the works of Chopin, Polands' greatest composer, with a glass of sparkling wine served during intermission.

DAY 3. ● WARSAW – CZESTOCHOWA – ZAKOPANE After breakfast, we depart for Zakopane – one of the most popular vacation resorts in the Tatra Mountains. En route, we stop in Czestochowa to visit the Jasna Gora Monastery and the Black Madonna Shrine with its miraculous icon. Lunch will be served a local restaurant in Czestochowa. In the evening we arrive in Zakopane beautifully situated at the foot of the Tatra Mountains, in the valley between Gubalowka and Giewont. It is the most popular resort in Poland and one of the most beautiful places in all of Poland, owing to its

picturesque location. Once, a small mountain village, Zakopane became a fashionable artist’s retreat at the beginning of the 20th century.

DAY 4 ● ZAKOPANE – KRAKOW

In the morning, you will have a sightseeing tour of Zakopane, whose wooden architecture blends with the natural landscapes and it is copied in other parts of Poland and is known as Zakopianski Style. You will visit the Jaszczurowka Chapel, a great example of the wooden architecture in Zakopane, and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima at Krzeptowki, which was built by the people of Zakopane to thank the Lady of Fatima for saving the Pope after an attempt on his life. Admire the breathtaking views of the Tatras from the top of Gubalowka Mountain and shop for souvenirs of arts and crafts of the Highlanders (Gorale) in the local shops. After lunch on your own you will have a free time. Before we continue on to Krakow, take a spectacular rafting trip on the Dunajec River in Pieniny National Park.

DAY 5 ● KRAKOW – AUSCHWITZ – KRAKOW The morning sightseeing tour will feature Wawel, the Royal Castle, home to three dynasties of Poland’s monarchs. Its stately halls and exquisite chambers are filled with priceless art, valuable period furniture and rare ancient objects. The collection of monumental 16th century tapestries is matchless. You will also visit the Wawel Cathedral, the place of the cult of St. Stanislaw and St. Jadwiga, Queen of Poland. Its 18 chapels are true architectural masterpieces. The giant bell, Zygmunt from 1520 ranks with the world’s largest. This is the place where Polish kings were crowned and buried. Following a short break for coffee and cake at the famous Krakow café, “Jama Michalika”, a place designed by local artists with beautiful glass-painted windows and interesting drawings, we drive to Old Town with its restored Main Square of magnificent houses and palaces. There, you stop at St. Mary’s Basilica where to see the magnificent wooden altar by Wit Stwosz. In the middle of the square is Cloth Hall built before 1349, but renovated in the 16th century with many shoppingstalls inside. After lunch we derive to Auschwitz to visit the Martyrdom Museum of the former Nazi concentration camp, the infamous factory of death.

DAY 6 ● KRAKOW – WIELICZKA – KRAKOW In the morning time on your own. Afternoon drive to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, an unforgettable tourist attraction with underground chambers, grottoes, and chapels carved from salt. Dinner with a folkloric show will be served at a local restaurant in Wieliczka, before we drive back to Krakow.

DAY 7 Friday ● KRAKOW (Breakfast)After breakfast this morning, we transfer you to the airport for the return flight home.

Tour Includes:• Airport transfers (only tour departure and end date) • Selected class hotels, rooms with private facilities• English-speaking tour escort assistance• Service of local guides• Private air-conditioned motor coach/minibus/car (depending on the group size)• Meals as per itinerary: breakfast daily, • Sightseeing tours as per itinerary• Chopin concert with a glass of sparkling wine

CZECH REPUBLIC – BOHEMIAN TOUR



Day 1 - - Prague - Karlovy Vary (130 km)

Departure from the Hilton Prague Hotel at 8:30 a.m. for the world famous spa town of Karlovy Vary (Carlsbad). Sightseeing tour. Overnight in Karlovy Vary. Hotel Růže or similar.

Day 2 - Karlovy Vary - Česky Krumlov (250 km)

Breakfast. Drive to Plzen (Pilsen), home of the famous Pilsner Urquell Brewery. A visit to the Pilsner Urquell Brewery will be organised. A short sightseeing tour. Continue to the metropolis of South Bohemia, Česke Budějovice (Budweis) with its unique historical market square. Continue to the UNESCO town of Česky Krumlov and admire its numerous medieval buildings. Overnight in Česky Krumlov.

Day 3 - Česky Krumlov - Třeboň (50 km)

Breakfast. Sightseeing tour of Česky Krumlov will include a visit to Česky Krumlov Castle. In the afternoon depart for Třeboň, the famous centre of the Bohemian fishing lake area and awell-known spa town. Visit to Třeboň Castle. In the evening a walking tour of the town or a spa visit with optional spa therapy treatment could be arranged. Overnight in Třeboň. Zlata Hvězda Hotel or similar.

Day 4 - Třeboň - Lednice (160 km)

Breakfast. Continue through the lush countryside of South Bohemia, stopping in the UNESCO listed historical town of Telč with beautiful Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque houses. Continue to Valtice and Lednice in South Moravia. Dinner followed by a visit to a local wine shop to taste the famous local wines. Overnight in Lednice. Day 5 - Lednice - Brno (55 km)

Breakfast. Visit the Valtice and Lednice Chateaux. Drive to the national nature reserve of the Moravian Karst. A boat ride on its subterranean River Punkva will be combined with a visit to the Macocha Abyss. Drive on to Brno, the metropolis of Moravia. Overnight in Brno.

Day 6 - Brno - Hradec Kralove (150 km)

Breakfast. After a short sightseeing tour of Brno, drive to Central Moravia where two historical cities will be visited - the garden city of Kromeriz and Olomouc, the city of churches, featuring one of the largest collections of historical monuments in the country. After a short sightseeing tour depart for Hradec Kralove. Overnight in Hradec Kralove.

Day 7 - Sunday - Hradec Kralove - Prague (120 km)

Breakfast. Departure for Prague, en route stop in the beautiful historical UNESCO town of Kutna Hora where St. Barbora's Cathedral and the Royal Mint will be visited. Drive on to the Hilton Prague Hotel where this tour ends.

* 1 night first class accommodation in Karlovy Vary, Cesky Krumlov & Brno * 1 night standard class accommodation in Trebon, Lednice & Hradec Kralovy * Breakfast daily , wine-tasting in a wine cellar in Moravia * Air-conditioned transportation throughout * Walking city tours of Karlovy Vary, Plzen, Ceske Budejovice, Cesky Krumlov, Trebon, Brno, Olomouc and Kutna Hora* Excursion to the Pilsner Urquell Breweries * Excursions to Cesky Krumlov Castle, Trebon Castle, Lednice and Valtice Chateau, Kromeriz Chateau, St. Barbora’s Cathedral and Royal Mint including

all entrance fees * Services of English speaking tour escort throughout and bus or private car transportation (depending the number of participants) * Taxes and Service Charges

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