Heart of Central Europe
Tours / Heart of Central Europe
Experience the heart of Central Europe from Prague to Budapest, exploring historic towns, grand castles, opulent palaces, scenic landscapes, and vibrant cultural landmarks.
DATE
Aug 19 - 30 2026
BOARD
3 & 4 Star Hotels
DURATION
12 Days
TRANSPORT
Cars, Public Transit
GROUP SIZE
6-10 People
ACTIVITY
Leisure
Tour Itinerary
DAY 1: Travel Day
International flights should be arranged to depart from the US on or before Wednesday, August 19th, 2026, to arrive in Prague on Thursday, August 20th, 2026. Late arrivals will need to find their own way to the arranged hotel and may miss out on some tour activities. Discounts will not be provided for late arrivals. Early arrivals will need to secure any additional hotel nights and/or activities they wish to participate in prior to tour commencement.
DAY 2: Arrive in Prague
​Experience the highlights of Prague’s Old Town, with its rich history and bustling squares. Cross the historic Charles Bridge, adorned with statues and offering scenic river views. Watch the famous Astronomical Clock come alive on the hour and admire the striking Church of Our Lady before Týn, a prominent feature of Prague’s skyline. Enjoy some free time to explore nearby shops and cafés. Overnight in Prague.
DAY 3: Prague
Discover Prague’s architectural and cultural heritage with visits to notable landmarks. Tour the Klementinum, a grand complex featuring an ornate Baroque library and astronomical tower. Continue to Prague Castle, the hilltop fortress that has served as the seat of Czech rulers for centuries. Step inside St. Vitus Cathedral to admire its soaring Gothic design and colorful stained glass. Walk along the charming Golden Lane, lined with colorful houses that once housed castle guards and artisans. Overnight in Prague.
DAY 4: Czech Countryside and Cesky Krumlov
Depart Prague and travel south through the scenic Czech countryside to ÄŒeský Krumlov. Explore the town’s iconic castle, including its picturesque courtyards, gardens, and historical interiors. Continue south into Austria for a visit to Kremsmünster Abbey, where you can admire the baroque architecture, impressive library, and astronomical clock. Enjoy a peaceful evening at Hotel Jägerwirt, surround by the tranquil landscape. Overnight in Lengau.
DAY 5: Salzburg
Visit the magnificent Herrenchiemsee Palace, exploring its lavish rooms and expansive gardens inspired by King Ludwig II’s “Bavarian Versailles.” Continue to Salzburg to see the Salzburg Cathedral (Dom), a remarkable Baroque landmark in the city’s historic center. Explore Salzburg Castle, perched above the city and offering breathtaking views. Take a leisurely stroll along Salzburg’s famous Getreidegasse. Overnight in Salzburg.
DAY 6: Bavaria
Begin the day with a visit to Hellbrunn Palace, exploring its elegant rooms, beautiful gardens, and playful trick fountains. Head to Berchtesgaden to tour the famous salt mines, learning about centuries of local mining history and enjoying a fun underground adventure. Visit the Parish Church of St. Sebastian, a Baroque landmark known for its striking architecture and peaceful surroundings. Conclude the day at the scenic Königssee, where you can admire the emerald-green waters framed by dramatic alpine cliffs. Overnight in Salzburg.
DAY 7: Melk Abbey & Schönbrunn Palace Gardens
Travel from Salzburg to Vienna, stopping to visit the magnificent Melk Abbey, a stunning Baroque monastery overlooking the Danube River. Discover its ornate interiors, grand library, and beautifully landscaped terraces, and take time to admire the views of the river and surrounding countryside. Continue to Vienna and spend the afternoon wandering the gardens of Schönbrunn Palace, strolling along the fountains, manicured flowerbeds, and peaceful walking paths while enjoying the palace’s grand architecture. Overnight in Vienna.
DAY 8: Vienna
Admire Karlskirche, an impressive Baroque church known for its striking dome. Explore the Imperial Crypts, the resting place of the Habsburg rulers, and learn about Vienna’s rich imperial history. Discover St. Stephen’s Cathedral, admiring its Gothic design and intricate roof tiles, in the heart of Vienna. Wander through the city to view iconic landmarks such as the Rathaus (City Hall) and the Vienna State Opera, taking in their stunning architecture. Enjoy an authentic Wienerschnitzel, tasting this classic dish in its place of origin. Overnight in Vienna.
DAY 9: Following The Danube
Follow the scenic Danube River, passing through picturesque landscapes and historic towns. Explore Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, with its charming old town, cobbled streets, and riverside promenade. Continue to Komárno, known for its impressive fortifications and rich history. Stop in Szentendre, a colorful Hungarian town famed for its baroque buildings and art galleries. Conclude the day in Budapest, arriving in the vibrant capital and enjoying evening views along the river. Overnight in Budapest.
DAY 10: The Pest Of Budapest
Explore Pest, the area of Budapest on the east bank of the river, known for its grand boulevards, historic squares, and lively city center. See Shoes on the Danube Bank, a moving memorial honoring victims of World War II. Admire the grandeur of the Hungarian parliament building, the city’s most iconic landmark. Discover St. Stephen’s Basilica, taking in its impressive interior and sweeping city views. Walk through Heroes’ Square and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the adjacent Városliget (City Park), a spacious green area perfect for relaxing walks. Overnight in Budapest.
DAY 11: The Buda Of Budapest
​Experience Buda, on the Danube’s west bank, with its hilly streets, historic architecture, and charming neighborhoods. From the Fisherman’s Bastion, enjoy expansive perspectives of the city, and admire St. Matthias Church, a Gothic-style landmark dating back to the 14th century in the heart of the Buda Castle district. Explore Buda Castle, a grand historic complex dominating the skyline. Stop at the Central Market Hall, a lively space filled with local foods, crafts, and authentic city atmosphere. Overnight in Budapest.
DAY 12: Return Home
The tour concludes with hotel check-out by 11 a.m. Arrangements to the airport will be made for those leaving prior to 9 a.m. Early departures or later departures should plan their own transportation to the airport.
Tour Pricing And Payment Schedule
The Heart of Central Europe tour scheduled for August 2026 will be $3,050 per person, based on double occupancy. A $100 discount is given for payment in full at initial deposit; otherwise, the following payment schedule applies per person:
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Non-refundable deposit of $600 reserves spot - deposits made prior to Dec 31st, 2025 receive a $100 discount, making the deposit $500.
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Payment of $490 due on Jan 1st, 2025
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Payment of $490 due on Mar 1st, 2026
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Payment of $490 due on May 1st, 2026
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Payment of $490 due on Jun 1st, 2026
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Final payment of $490 due on July 1st, 2026​
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If signing up after any deposit deadline, payment for any previous deposits will be due upon sign-up. Prompt payment is appreciated. Late payments are assessed a $25 late fee.
Only 1 discount on tour pricing is permissible. A discount of $100 is available to all those who place their deposit prior to December 31st, 2025. After December 31st, 2025, a $100 discount is available to all those who pay their full tour price at the time of their initial deposit.
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Solo supplement (single occupancy hotel rooms): $800​
Minimum Number of Participants: 6
Tour Inclusions and Exclusions
Included in the tour cost:
Pre-tour information, such as what to pack and how to exchange currency
Expertise of a tour guide throughout the tour
All sight-seeing and visits, as noted in the itinerary
All on-tour transportation, including trains, ferries, rental vehicles, and buses
One carry-on suitcase and one personal item due to space restraints in rental vehicles
All on-tour accommodations, based on double occupancy; typically, 3-star and 4-star hotels
Not included in the tour cost:
International airfare and any related expenses
Travel insurance
Expenses due to flight delays, strikes, inclement weather or other irregularities
Passport fees, visas (including ETIAS for EU entry) and visa photos as required
Personal items such as souvenirs, laundry services, beverages, snacks, and healthcare
Optional excursions as indicated in the itinerary
Meals as indicated in the tour itinerary
Checked baggage fees and excess baggage charges
Seat requests and seat upgrades
Singular traveler supplement
Refunds for tour services not utilized
Other items not specifically mentioned as included
Tour Information
Terms and Conditions
Please thoroughly review the Terms and Conditions on our website. Submitting a deposit for services constitutes a contractual agreement with Aticus Travel and represents your acceptance of the Aticus Travel, LLC Terms & Conditions.
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View Terms and Conditions >
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​Liability Waiver and Release Form
Please sign and return the Liability Waiver and Release Form for each tour participant. A parent or guardian must sign the form for any minor participants. A tour request is officially submitted when both the tour deposit and the Waiver and Release form are received by Aticus Travel, LLC for each tour participant.
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​Travel Insurance
Due to the strict cancellation policy, in order to protect your investment, and to provide you with peace of mind, we strongly recommend you purchase travel insurance. Many reputable companies exist and you can look into any of them, but here are a few recommendations to consider: Allianz Global Assistance, TravelEx, World Nomads and Travel Guard.
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​Packing Checklist and Tips
Please review the packing list for suggestions and tips on what to pack, how much you can take and what to leave at home.
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View / Download Packing Checklist and Tips >
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