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Premium Prague to Bucharest

22 Days

  • TOUR DESCRIPTION
  • Itinerary
  • Dates & Prices
  • Enquire Now
  • Travel Insurance by Allianz

Tour Description

Embark on a journey through Central and Eastern Europe, exploring six diverse countries and cultures along the way. Wander Prague’s streets, unwind in a Slovakian castle and sample local flavours with alcohol tastings and a Pierogi cooking class. Reflect on history with a private tour of Auschwitz and embrace Paloc culture in Holloko, where you can try your hand at local crafts and try on traditional costumes. Travel across borders to Transylvania to explore vampiric lore and cobbled Old Towns and get to know Romania’s top sights and lesser-known charms. Through mountain scenery, UNESCO World Heritage sites, winery tours and local immersions, this trip will give you the full experience of these regions, all with a local by your side.

Priced From:

$ 14905.00pp *

Valid From: 01JAN2026

Valid To: 31DEC2026

Start Location: Prague

End Location: Bucharest

Countries: Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia,

Tour Advisors

Tiffany McCrea-Lennon

Managing Director

Russell Mein

Travel Specialist

Caitlin Lennon

Travel Coordinator

Michelle Baldwin

Travel Specialist

Gaylyn Murdoch

Administration Manager

Holly Skene

Travel Co-ordinator

Kim Thomas

Broker

Highlights

  • Step into another world as you walk through ancient halls and hear the myths and legends surrounding some of the most impressive castles in Europe – Bran, Peles, Buda and Prague Castle.
  • Visit six different countries on this trip – from the streets of Prague to the historic depths of Bucharest, you’ll get a sense of every city with local leader insights.
  • Savour a variety of local flavours with unique culinary experiences, including a beer tasting tour in the Czech Republic, a wine tasting session in Serbia, a hands-on Pierogi cooking class in Poland, street food delights in Hungary and a winery visit in Romania.
  • Spend three nights in Feature Stays – a 13th-century castle in the Slovakian countryside with a spa and swimming pool, and a mansion in Romania in the Trascau Mountains.
  • Engage with history during a private tour of Auschwitz to understand the region’s past in Poland and explore UNESCO World Heritage cities like the medieval Sighisoara and the Transylvanian Saxon villages.
  • Included Activities

  • Timisoara - City Tour
  • Sibiu - Evening Walking Tour
  • Sarmizegetusa Regia - Guided Tour
  • Sibiu - ASTRA Village Museum
  • Alba Lulia - Citadel Tour
  • Turda - Salt Mines Tour
  • Sighisoara - Walking Tour
  • Malancrav - Village Stop
  • Medias - Town Stop
  • Biertan - Town Stop
  • Rupea - Fortress Stop
  • Bran Castle - Tour
  • Brasov - Walking Tour
  • Peles - Castle Visit
  • Brasov - Chimney Cake Tasting
  • Azuga - Winery Tour and Tasting with Lunch
  • Itinerary

    Day 1 Location: Prague
    Ahoj! Welcome to Prague. When you arrive at Prague Airport, you’ll be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. Until then, you can explore Czech Republic's capital city as you wish. Steeped in history, there’s plenty to see here – maybe check out the National Gallery, with Czech and international art on display, or the Franz Kafka Museum – a wonderful dedication to the life and work of the famous Prague writer. After your meeting, get to know your group over a traditional Czech dinner – look out for goulash (a beef stew), svickova (marinated beef) or trdelnik (a sweet pastry, also called chimney cake) on the menu.
    Day 2 Location: Prague
    Get up and out this morning on a leader-led orientation walk around the city. You’ll probably spot Prague Castle – one of the largest ancient castles in the world, visible from different parts of the city. See Charles Bridge, another medieval structure that crosses the Vltava River and venture into the charming Old Town with its own architectural highlights, like the astronomical clock that’s been ticking away since 1410. If you’re a fan of beer, you’re probably familiar with a Pilsner – but did you know this pale lager originated in the Czech Republic? Try some out on a visit to the Pilsner brewery, where you’ll also learn all about the brewing process and its origins.
    Day 3 Location: Olomouc
    Hop on a train to Olomouc today, east of Prague. Although often overshadowed by the capital, this city has plenty to offer – like the Holy Trinity Column, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Olomouc Castle, which dates back to the 12th century. Olomouc even has its own astronomical clock in its Old Town, offering an insight into how people kept time in the medieval period. Learn about these and more during a leader-led orientation walk. You’re then free to explore as you wish. Make sure to ask your leader for any restaurant recommendations in the city centre or go for a walk around Smetana Gardens.
    Day 4 Location: Krakow
    This morning, you’ll drive across the border into Poland and on to Auschwitz – one of the trip’s most difficult but profoundly impactful experiences. As you walk around what once was the largest Nazi concentration camp with a guide, you’ll learn about the suffering of millions of Jewish people, as well as other persecuted groups, during the Holocaust. While visiting Auschwitz is incredibly emotional, it’s essential for understanding the past and ensuring such atrocities aren’t repeated in the future. Decompress after in Krakow, your next destination, and perhaps head to the Old Town for dinner.
    Day 5 Location: Krakow
    Krakow is best known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, so take it all in as you tour the city with a local guide this morning. They’ll likely bring you to Main Market Square in the Old Town, one of the largest squares in Europe, and St. Mary’s Basilica, a church known for its Gothic architecture. As you walk, learn about how Krakow changed during the Austro-Hungarian Empire and World War II. Then, get hands-on with Krakow’s culinary scene with a cooking class – learn how to make Pierogi (Eastern European dumplings) and enjoy tucking into them after.
    Day 6 Location: Banska Stiavnica
    Make your way to central Slovakia today and stop in Banska Bystrica – a city with medieval origins. When you arrive, head out on a leader-led tour, where you might see the Main Square in the Old Town and the Church of St. Francis Xavier – an excellent example of Baroque architecture. Maybe learn about the city’s role in the Slovak National Uprising of 1944 in the square dedicated to it. Then, head to your Feature Stay accommodation for the night – Hotel Grand Viglas. Feel like royalty in this converted castle that offers modern amenities like a swimming pool and spa, as well as an upscale restaurant for dinner.
    Day 7 Location: Banska Stiavnica
    Check out the nearby town of Banska Stiavnica today, which sits in the middle of a caldera created by the collapse of an ancient volcano with the whole town declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Start with a visit to the Slovak Mining Museum to see first-hand the role that mining precious metals has had in shaping this region and its communities. After, your leader will take you on a short but rewarding hike to Kalveria Church, which sits on a hill overlooking the city. You’ll start from the city centre and take a well-marked trail, with plenty of good views of the city. Finally, relax with a free evening back at your Feature Stay.
    Day 8 Location: Budapest
    Pack up and head for Budapest today, stopping at Holloko on the way. This village, tucked away in the Cserhat Mountains, is a well-preserved representation of Paloc culture – an ethnic subgroup in Hungary. You might feel as though you're stepping back in time as you walk around Holloko, where residents often wear traditional clothing, and crafts like pottery and weaving remain integral to village life. Walk around with a local guide and learn about these different traditional crafts at demonstrations – where you can even try on traditional clothing! Sample brandy and cheese pie (a local delicacy) then continue to Budapest for the evening.
    Day 9 Location: Budapest
    Get your bearings in Hungary’s capital today with an orientation walk with your leader. Many associate Budapest with its thermal bath culture, which is why it’s also known as the City of Spas. You can opt to visit the Szechenyi Baths – one of the largest and most famous thermal baths in Budapest, featuring several outdoor pools. Buda Castle is also a highlight, standing tall on the west side of the Danube River. Join your leader for the Buda Castle Walk – a well-loved route that allows you to see lots of historical parts of the city, like Chain Bridge, the bridge that connects Buda and Pest, and Matthias Church. After, refuel with a langos (a deep-fried flatbread, very popular in Budapest)!
    Day 10 Location: Belgrade
    Drive to Serbia this morning and stop off at Subotica. Enjoy a guided tour of the border city, where you’ll spot notable Art Noveau architecture around the place, namely the City Hall and the Synagogue. Your leader can also explain how the Roman, Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian periods influenced the city. You’ll then drive to a local winery, where you’ll learn about the winemaking process in Serbia. Put your wine-tasting skills to the test by sampling various wines from their signature collection. After, continue to Belgrade, your last destination.
    Day 11 Location: Belgrade
    As Serbia’s capital, Belgrade has a rich history and your leader will touch on this today on an orientation walk. Located where the Danube River and the River Sava meet, this city has been a centre of power for various empires over the centuries. Once you know your way around the city, the day is yours to explore as you wish. Perhaps check out Knez Mihailova Street if you’re in the mood to shop, or head to Kalemegdan Fortress for good views of the rivers converging. Maybe visit the Nikola Tesla Museum, where you can learn all about how the engineer shaped technological advancement in the 20th century. Then, get together with your group for a traditional Serbian dinner – think cevapi (grilled sausages), sarma (cabbage rolls with minced meat) and prebranac (a bean stew).
    Day 12 Location: Belgrade
    Enjoy a day at leisure in Belgrade. Perhaps check out the city’s many museums, or maybe get a caffeine fix with a Turkish coffee at a kafana. Since this is a combination trip, another welcome meeting will take place at your hotel at 6pm this evening to meet your new leader welcome any new travellers joining you for the next part of your adventure. After your meeting, head out for dinner at a local restaurant showcasing Serbia’s traditional cuisine.
    Day 13 Location: Timisoara
    This morning, travel by private vehicle to Timisoara, crossing the Serbia-Romania border. Timisoara is a park-filled city where an uprising of local people sparked the Romanian Revolution in 1989. This saw the fall of the country’s Communist regime – reflecting the broader political change seen across Eastern Europe at the time. On a guided walking tour, you’ll take in some of Timisoara’s most significant sights – including the grand and aptly named Victory, Liberty and Union Squares – and learn more about the city’s history.
    Day 14 Location: Sibiu
    Head to Sibiu after breakfast, stopping on the way to visit Sarmizegetusa Regia – the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Dacia. Romania’s answer to Stonehenge, Sarmizegetusa Regia was a centre of religious, military and political significance until it was invaded by the Romans in 102 AD. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest and most mysterious historical sites in Romania. After touring the site with a local guide, continue to Sibiu, where you’ll get acquainted with the cobbled streets and squares on a guided walking tour. Sibiu is known for its creative, bohemian atmosphere, rich history and architecture. Explore what remains of the city’s medieval walls and towers, cross the legend-shrouded Bridge of Lies and take in the grandeur of Brukenthal National Museum before a free evening.
    Day 15 Location: Sibiu
    This morning head to the outskirts of the city to explore ASTRA Village Museum. Set across 96 acres surrounding a sparkling lake, this open-air living museum seeks to preserve, showcase and celebrate Romanian folk culture and traditional ways of life. Wander the grounds to discover reconstructed old dwellings, windmills and workshops and learn how Romanian people of centuries past grew food, raised families and made a living. The afternoon is free to visit the Orthodox Cathedral or admire the slightly less imposing (but equally magnificent) Gothic Lutheran church. Alternatively, grab a covrigi (a tasty Romanian pretzel), wander the old town and snap photos of the colourful, Wes Anderson-style architecture.
    Day 16 Location: Coltesti Village
    Depart Sibiu and head to Alba Lulia – one of the oldest cities in Romania. It is home to an 18th-century citadel with a history that dates to Roman times. Shaped like a seven-point star, the fortress features a collection of ornate gates and vantage points, as well as numerous museums and cafes. Wander the cobbled streets with an expert guide to hear more about what went on within these ancient walls over the last two millennia. Next, drive to the Trascau Mountains to reach Coltesti and check in to Szekler Mansion – your exclusive Feature Stay. This evening, sit down for a traditional meal which might feature hearty bowls of borsch or goulash, locally made cheese and sarmale (smoky, meat-filled cabbage rolls).
    Day 17 Location: Sighisoara
    On your way to Sighisoara today, stop off at the Turda Salt Mine. This huge subterranean space was renovated and opened to the public in the early 1990s and resembles an alien planet or a Bond villain’s lair. Don’t forget to pack a sweatshirt – it gets chilly 119 m down! When you resurface, head to the nearby town Medias, where you can catch a glimpse of the Trumpeter Tower, a medieval structure with a distinctive tilt. Finish your journey in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sighisoara – your home for the next two nights and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure and inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Explore the colourful streets of Sighisoara’s old town on a guided walk and then enjoy a free evening.
    Day 18 Location: Sighisoara
    Start your day by visiting the UNESCO World Hertiage site Biertan, home to a 15th century fortified church perched high on a hill in the centre of town. Then, drive to Malancrav for lunch in a bucolic setting – the Saxon village was once owned by one family, the Apafis, and populated with German farmers. Maybe see the Apafi Mansion and the 14th-century church that features the oldest wall paintings in Transylvania. Head back to Sighisoara after your sightseeing and spend the rest of the day exploring as you wish.
    Day 19 Location: Brasov
    After breakfast, set off for Brasov, making a pit stop at hilltop Rupea Fortress along the way. The restored citadel’s steep and rocky pathways spiral up to the highest point, offering sweeping views over the surrounding fields. Next, you'll visit Bran Castle – perhaps Romania’s most famous attraction, given its associations with the tale of Count Dracula. Vampire myths aside (it was never actually home to Vlad the Impaler or Bram Stoker), the forested surroundings and lofty location of this 14th-century castle is a great setting. This evening you’ll reach Brasov and have dinner together at a local restaurant.
    Day 20 Location: Brasov
    Your tour of Romanian castles continues with Peles. Built in the late 19th century, the neo-Renaissance creation is even more extravagant on the inside than it is on the outside. Return to Brasov and, in the afternoon, join your leader for a walk, learning about the city’s most notable sights. You’ll see the remnants of the old medieval fortifications, the Black Church – damaged in the 1689 Great Fire but now restored – and the wedge-shaped Council Square, lined with historic buildings. Round the day off with the Romanian sweet treat of chimney cake (or kurtoskolacs as the locals call it).
    Day 21 Location: Bucharest
    Today, you have a free morning in Brasov. Maybe seek out tiny String Street, which is 44 inches at its narrowest point or indulge in some Romanian sweet treats like papanasi (a sweet cream doughnut topped with blueberry jam). Depart the city and head for lunch in the Prahova Valley, where you’ll tour a local winery known for its sparkling rose in the mountain town of Azuga. Hit the road one last time, reaching Bucharest in the late afternoon.
    Day 22 Location: Bucharest
    Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. If you’d like to spend some more time in Bucharest, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

    Dates & prices

    Dates
    Prices
    Availability
    Departure Date :
    18MAY2026
    Return Date :
    08JUN2026
    15500NZD
    available
    Departure Date :
    01JUN2026
    Return Date :
    22JUN2026
    15500NZD
    available
    Departure Date :
    15JUN2026
    Return Date :
    06JUL2026
    14905NZD
    available
    Departure Date :
    06JUL2026
    Return Date :
    27JUL2026
    14905NZD
    available
    Departure Date :
    17AUG2026
    Return Date :
    07SEP2026
    14905NZD
    available
    Departure Date :
    24AUG2026
    Return Date :
    14SEP2026
    14905NZD
    available
    Departure Date :
    07SEP2026
    Return Date :
    28SEP2026
    15500NZD
    available
    Departure Date :
    14SEP2026
    Return Date :
    05OCT2026
    15500NZD
    available
    Departure Date :
    17MAY2027
    Return Date :
    07JUN2027
    16275NZD
    available
    Departure Date :
    31MAY2027
    Return Date :
    21JUN2027
    16275NZD
    available

    Trip Notes

    Trip title

    Premium Prague to Bucharest

    Trip code

    WMPEC

    Validity

    Validity: 01 Jan 2026 to 31 Dec 2026

    Introduction

    Embark on a journey through Central and Eastern Europe, exploring six diverse countries and cultures along the way. Wander Prague’s streets, unwind in a Slovakian castle and sample local flavours with alcohol tastings and a Pierogi cooking class. Reflect on history with a private tour of Auschwitz and embrace Paloc culture in Holloko, where you can try your hand at local crafts and try on traditional costumes. Travel across borders to Transylvania to explore vampiric lore and cobbled Old Towns and get to know Romania’s top sights and lesser-known charms. Through mountain scenery, UNESCO World Heritage sites, winery tours and local immersions, this trip will give you the full experience of these regions, all with a local by your side.

    Style

    Premium

    Themes

    Explorer

    Transport

    Private vehicle,train

    Physical Rating

    2

    Joining point

    Prague Leon D'oro

    Havelská 496/29, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia

    Prague

    CZECH REPUBLIC

    Phone: +420 224 282 010

    Joining point instructions

    Pre booked arrival transfer from Prague airport: If you have pre booked an arrival transfer, your transfer driver will be waiting in the arrivals hall holding a board with the Intrepid Logo or your name. In case of flight cancellations, changes, if you experience severe delays at immigration, baggage collection or customs, or if you are not able to find to the driver, please contact the operator's emergency number. +420778031448

    Finish point

    Continental Forum Bucharest

    82-84, Izvor Street, Romania

    Bucharest

    050564

    ROMANIA

    Finish point description

    Hotel Continental Forum Bucharest is situated in the centre of Bucharest close to the Palace of Parliament, right next to the Izvor Park and Metro Station and just a few minutes away from the Old Town and Unirii Square. There are many important government institutions and business centres nearby. Constitution Square and the National Museum of Contemporary Art are also within easy reach. The hotel allows its guests quick and easy access to all the major points of interest in the city. All units are air conditioned and fitted with cable TV and a private bathroom, offering free WiFi internet access.

    Finish point instructions

    To Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport (airport code OTP) take a 5 min taxi to Bucharest North Train sation (Gara de Nord) where you can take a train TFC AEROPORTRE 10103Aeroport Henri Coandă T1 (Otopeni) directly to ariport (cca 30 min). If you have pre booked a deparuture transfer your transfer driver will be waiting at the hotel 3 hours before your flight departure time.

    Important information

    1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 3. Porterage will not be available in Olomouc and Banska Stiavnica.

    Group leader

    All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Premium leaders are Intrepid’s most experienced, with in-depth knowledge and extensive local networks to make it a trip of a lifetime. Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. When not already included in your trip, your leader will be able to recommend a local guide service who can share more detailed or specialised information at specific sites should you be interested in delving deeper.

    Safety

    TRAVEL ADVISORIES & ALERTS We recommend that you check your government's foreign travel advisory for the latest information about the destination before you travel. You will also need to ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. We also recommend saving the phone number for emergency consular assistance for your government’s consulate in the destination/s you’ll be travelling. Links to travel advisories and any current travel alerts for our trips can be found here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/travel-alerts PERSONAL SAFETY Ensure you have a secure method of carrying your passport, phone, credit cards and cash while travelling such as a money belt. Leave all other high value items, including jewellery, at home Use safety deposit boxes at hotels to store your valuables when available and ensure your luggage is lockable. Be aware of the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft. Exercise caution when walking at night, don’t walk alone and stick to well-lit streets wherever possible. Be vigilant on public transport and look out for your fellow travellers. Take precautions such as carrying your bag in front of you and never leaving personal items unattended. LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS Intrepid welcomes all LGBTQIA+ customers on our trips, however we operate in parts of the world that are less accepting. We support LGBTQIA+ customers to travel to these destinations and are committed to ensuring they face no discrimination on any part of the trip we control. We recommend you visit Equaldex (https://www.equaldex.com/) and your government's foreign travel advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers when choosing your trip.

    https://www.intrepidtravel.com/safety-guidelines

    FIRE PRECAUTIONS: Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in this region differ from those in your home country and not all the accommodation which we use has a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.

    PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.

    SEAT BELTS: Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and not all the transport which we use is able to provide seat belts.

    SCAMS Common scams operating in Europe include ploys to get you fined on the metro without a validated ticket. Ensure that you always travel with a validated ticket (have your ticket stamped). Another common scam is used by children who distract you with a map or a newspaper and while you are attending to them, steal your valuables. You may also come across players offering you to participate in the so-called "shell game". This is a scam and you will most certainly lose your money.

    Visas

    PASSPORT You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date. We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends. VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here:  www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements

    Why we love it

    Step into another world as you walk through ancient halls and hear the myths and legends surrounding some of the most impressive castles in Europe – Bran, Peles, Buda and Prague Castle.

    Visit six different countries on this trip – from the streets of Prague to the historic depths of Bucharest, you’ll get a sense of every city with local leader insights.

    Savour a variety of local flavours with unique culinary experiences, including a beer tasting tour in the Czech Republic, a wine tasting session in Serbia, a hands-on Pierogi cooking class in Poland, street food delights in Hungary and a winery visit in Romania.

    Spend three nights in Feature Stays – a 13th-century castle in the Slovakian countryside with a spa and swimming pool, and a mansion in Romania in the Trascau Mountains.

    Engage with history during a private tour of Auschwitz to understand the region’s past in Poland and explore UNESCO World Heritage cities like the medieval Sighisoara and the Transylvanian Saxon villages.

    Is this trip right for you

    Many of the wonderful cities and sites of this trip are explored on foot. Please ensure you bring sturdy walking shoes and comfortable clothes, plus suitable luggage for navigating cobblestone streets. Summer temperatures can be very high in many of the regions visited (over 40°C/104°F), which can be uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat S heat and drink plenty of water. Please carefully consider the time of year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.

    Health

    GENERAL HEALTH All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. 

    Food and dietary requirements

    While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader or local representative will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule, our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let your booking agent know prior to departure. VEGETARIANS Vegetarians might find the menu selection in Europe less varied than they would see at home. Vegetarianism is not as common in this region and generally the choices are basic, involving vegetables, soups, salads, bread, cheese, fruit, yoghurt, eggs etc. Vegans and those on gluten-free diets may find this region very challenging and may need to supplement meals with their own supplies from supermarkets and markets. Wherever possible we will cater for dietary needs for any included meals, but there may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own.

    Money matters

    SPENDING MONEY When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling. EUROPE The Euro (EUR) is the official currency in the following destinations: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Kosovo, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain. All other European countries still have their own national currencies. You can use your credit/debit card in ATMs, which are common throughout Europe. You can obtain EUR cash prior to arriving through normal outlets such as banks and currency exchange offices. Below are any additional currencies used in countries visited on this itinerary. The local currency in the Czech Republic is the Koruna (CZK). The local currency in Poland is the Polish Zloty (PLN). The local currency in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF) The local currency in Serbia is the Dinar (RSD). TIPPING Tips are included on all Intrepid Premium trips, covering hotel staff, local guides and the people who will take care of you during your travels. This amount does not include a tip for your group leader, so you may wish to set aside some funds for this. Tipping your group leader is highly appreciated if you feel they’ve provided outstanding services throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline, the recommended amount is 8 – 10 USD or EUR per traveller per day (in a currency relevant to your destination). Of course, you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your group leader on your trip. CONTINGENCY FUNDS We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.

    What to take

    What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. We recommend you pack as lightly as possible, ensuring that you are able to carry and lift your own luggage and walk with it for short distances or up or down a flight of stairs. Help will be on hand in most locations, but there may be times you need to handle your own luggage, for example in airports and train stations. A lockable suitcase with wheels is ideal for this trip. It is recommended that you keep your main luggage weight around 15kg and certainly no more than 20kg. A small or medium-sized backpack (45-50 litres) is another good option. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, camera, jacket, etc. when you’re exploring during the day. Below is a link to our ultimate packing list, a guide to get you started:

    https://www.intrepidtravel.com/packing-list

    WATER BOTTLE Please bring your own water bottle to refill. Although it can be difficult to avoid bottled water when travelling, please use the water dispensers which are provided on some of our vehicles and at some of our accommodation. When unable to avoid bottled water, it is better to buy the largest available and distribute it into your smaller bottle for the day. Some travellers like to bring a bottle with its own filtration system or water purification tablets. If you are walking or trekking as part of your trip, you will need to carry at least 2 litres of water with you.

    Climate and seasonal

    SUMMER Summer temperatures can be extreme in many of the regions visited (over 40°C/104°F), which can be uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection and drink plenty of water. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season. SHOULDER SEASON In contrast, weather in shoulder season can be unpredictable, and snow is not unheard of at higher altitudes. If you travel at the start or towards the end of the European season please pack accordingly with warm and/or waterproof clothes (preferably layers). The advantage of travelling during this time is that there are less tourists around.

    A couple of rules

    Intrepid won't tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams or local communities. To ensure the wellbeing of everyone on the trip, decisions made by your group leader are final. Romantic relationships between travellers and group leader or local representative are not permitted while on trip. Any behaviour that prevents your leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines may result in Intrepid denying your booking or removing you from the trip. If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your group leader immediately. Alternatively, you can contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in the Problems and Emergency Contact Information section of this Essential Trip Information.

    Feedback

    Can’t stop thinking about your adventure? Tell us all about it! We read each piece of feedback carefully and use it to make improvements for travellers like you. Share your experience with us at: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback/

    Emergency contact

    While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip. We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager. You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time. For general contact details please use the following page: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us If you have booked an arrival transfer, and you experience severe delays at immigration, baggage collection or customs, or if you are not able to find to the driver, please contact the transfer operator directly on the number listed in the joining point instructions in the section above. In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the numbers below: Intrepid's Local Operator: +49 8024 4679 540

    Responsible travel

    Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our trip group leaders or local representatives, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel. Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/responsible-travel

    The Intrepid Foundation

    Our non-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, gives travellers more opportunities to make a positive impact in the places they visit. We have over 50 Intrepid Foundation partners across the globe addressing four key focus areas: protecting the environment, taking a stand for wildlife, addressing inequality and empowering communities. Intrepid matches all post-trip donations dollar for dollar and takes care of the admin fees – this doubles your impact and ensures every cent goes to our partners on the ground. Visit our website for more info: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/ This trip directly supports Eden Reforestation Projects, who are tackling climate change by restoring forests across the world; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within local communities. Donations support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries, including Madagascar, Kenya and Nepal. To find out more or make a donation, visit: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/t/eden-reforestation-projects 

    Accommodation notes

    The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available. OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances. TWIN SHARE BASIS Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite and rare occasions when you share a room with passengers travelling on different Intrepid trips than your own. CHECK-IN TIME Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination. PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights. FACILITIES Your accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning. European hotels generally don't provide kettles or fridges.

    Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses, including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region, please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your group leader or local representative. If you have credit card insurance, your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number, rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country. For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or the USA, the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However, the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and each country you visit may have its own specific entry requirements. For example, some mandate travel health insurance for all foreign travellers, regardless of their nationality. Travellers from the European Union, Switzerland or the USA who decline travel insurance when travelling outside their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise. For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-resources/our-services

    Your fellow travellers

    As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure. SOLO TRAVELLERS On our trips, rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender, as per the gender marker on each of their passports. We also offer an optional single supplement on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. This only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will always be on a single-room basis. On a small selection of trips some accommodation will be open-gender and multishare, such as a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam. Please review the Accommodation section of the Essential Trip Information for details about your trip. LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. If your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you.

    Itinerary disclaimer

    ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk. MUSEUM VISITS & OPENING TIMES Many sites, attractions and museums are closed on Mondays (and sometimes Tuesdays). We recommend checking the opening times of anywhere you're interested to visit and making reservations where required/possible.

    Accommodation

    Comfortable hotel (18 nights) Feature Stay Hotel (3 nights)

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    13 Sep 2027

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