This is a past tour program.
The itinerary is shown here for information only. To see the current program and tour dates, click here.
Join us as we visit Central & Eastern Europe's three most popular and lovely cities: Budapest, splendid and sparkling, Vienna, regal and lovely, and Prague, often called the "Paris of the East". Our tour also includes a bonus visit to the charming Baltic city of Helsinki. This feature-rich tour is offered to you at extraordinarily affordable prices.
Our Touring Program
Day 1: Depart New York. Your fascinating journey begins as you depart New York this evening on your overnight flight bound for Budapest.
Day 2: Arrive Budapest, the delightful Hungarian capital. Welcome dinner and briefing tonight at your hotel, located in the heart of the city. NH Budapest Hotel or similar (B,D).
Day 3: Budapest is one of Eastern Europe's most lively cities. On your morning tour, your guide will introduce you to the history and sights of the city. Enjoy a panoramic view from Fishermen's Bastion located on Castle Hill. You'll also see the 13th century Matthias Coronation Church and the Citadel on Mount Gellert. Afternoon at leisure. Perhaps take a leisurely cruise on the romantic Danube River. (B)
Day 4: Danube Bend Excursion. Embark on a morning excursion to the scenic Hungarian countryside. Voyage to the charming artist's town of Szentendre, a real gem at the gateway to the picturesque Danube Bend region. Free time to explore before returning to Budapest where you may revel in the fine arts and architecture at your own pace. (B)
Day 5: Budapest & Vienna, Austria. Cross the border into Austria and drive to splendid Vienna, the center of the Hapsburg Empire. Experience the city's glorious past on a panoramic tour taking you along the Ring Boulevard, past Emperor Franz Josef's Hofburg Palace and the ornate State Opera to a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the Cathedral of St. Stephen's. Hilton Vienna Danube or similar. (B)
Day 6: Vienna. A full day at leisure to explore on your own and relax in a charming Viennese cafe. A must see is the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace, the baroque summer residence built for the Hapsburgs. You may also head to the wine village of Grinzing for a lively dinner complete with local entertainment. (B)
Day 7: Vienna & Prague, Czech Republic. Journey across the Czech border through rich farmlands to Moravia. Visit the quaint towns of Duernstein and Telc en route to Prague, one of Europe's most vibrant and colorful cities. Don Giovanni Hotel or similar (B)
Day 8: Prague. The beautiful city of Prague was built on seven hills and served as a former capital of the Roman Empire. On this morning's tour, visit the impressive Hradcany Castle and the Old Royal Palace, former residence of Bohemian kings. See the 14th-century Charles Bridge and explore the charming Old Town. Afternoon at leisure. (B)
Day 9: Prague. A day at leisure to relax at an outdoor cafe, shop the bustling markets or explore the fascinating Jewish Quarter on your own. Tonight, celebrate with your fellow travelers at a festive dinner. (B,D)
Day 10: Prague & Helsinki, Finland. After breakfast, bid farewell to the glorious cities of Eastern Europe and board a short flight to Helsinki, the charming capital of Finland, situated on the Baltic Sea. Orientation tour is included on arrival. Scandic Hotel (B)
Day 11: Helsinki/New York. Enjoy your "bonus" day in Helsinki and explore on your own. Or, try a real Finnish sauna! Early this afternoon, transfer to the airport for your non-stop flight back to the USA. Your exciting journey ends as you touch down in New York. (B)
Destination FAQs
For quick answers to Frequently Asked Questions about travel to Hungary, click here.
For quick answers to Frequently Asked Questions about travel to Austria, click here.
For quick answers to Frequently Asked Questions about travel to the Czech Republic, click here.
For quick answers to Frequently Asked Questions about travel to Finland, click here.
We weren't sure what to expect (especially at this price), and quite honestly, we were thoroughly impressed. The tour guides were not only knowledgeable but very friendly. The accommodations were pristine and the adventure—well, enough cannot be said for all that Egypt has to offer. We were a little concerned about any anti-American feelings that could be present there. On the contrary, the locals seemed to be warm, wonderful people who opened themselves up to us so very easily. We felt completely safe every step of the way! I highly recommend this trip to anyone who may have an interest in seeing Egypt.
— Scott Hebert, Gardner, MA
To Peggy & Staff, thanks so much for your professional and timely service. We really enjoyed the tour.
— Gloria Jaquez, Camarillo, CA
We travel with many companies and Friendly Planet is right at the top of our list.
— J.K. Deuel
