Itinerary

Day 1 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Depart U.S.

Depart from the U.S. for the Czech Republic. The particulars of your arrival overseas are detailed with your flight itinerary and airline tickets.

Day 2 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Independent exploration of Prague

Upon arrival at the Prague airport, claim your luggage and clear customs. If your luggage is lost, you must fill out a PIR form before leaving the customs area—VBT representatives are not allowed into the customs area. Also, make sure that your VBT luggage tags are attached to your bags so that your representative can identify you.

Leave customs, then enter the arrival hall and look for your VBT representative, who will be holding a VBT sign. Your representative welcomes you to Prague and helps you transfer via taxi or van (approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic) to your Prague hotel. Note: At this time, please verify with your VBT representative the time of your transfer from your Vienna hotel to the Vienna airport at the end of your trip.

If you arrive early, your hotel room may not be available until 1 p.m. You may store your luggage with the Reception Desk. The rest of the day is free to relax or begin your exploration of the city with your included 3-day Prague Transportation Pass.

At the hotel our VBT Representative, Barbara, will be available to offer information about getting around and about restaurants and sites of interest. You will also have the option to book a walking tour of the city (at additional cost of approximately 22-28€). Barbara's schedule varies and is dependent on the group members' arrivals. Her actual schedule will be relayed upon arrival in Prague.

VBT provides you with City Information in your Final Travel Booklet that includes information and recommendations on what to see and do in Prague during your stay.

Day 1 of AIR PACKAGE Depart the U.S.

You depart from the U.S. for the Czech Republic. The particulars of your arrival overseas are detailed with your flight itinerary and airline tickets.

Day 3 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Independent exploration of Prague

Explore Prague's unsurpassed culture and history. You may wish to visit Prague Castle, the city's most popular site. It is the largest ancient castle in the world: 570 meters (1,870 feet) long, on average, and 128 meters (420 feet) wide with an area of 18 acres. Constructed in the ninth century, the castle was transformed from a wooden fortress surrounded by earthen bulwarks to the imposing structure it is today. Subsequent rulers made their own additions, resulting in a mixture of styles. Prague Castle has had four major reconstructions, but it keeps the classical Baroque facade that it took on in the 18th century during the reign of Maria Theresa. The Jewish Quarter, “Josefov,” is also well worth a visit. Named after the Emperor Josef II, whose reforms helped to ease living conditions there, the Jewish Quarter contains the remains of Prague's former Jewish ghetto. Since many Jewish people died during World War II or were forced by the Communist regime to leave the country, the current Prague community numbers only 5,000 to 6,000 people. The Jewish Quarter is located in the Old Town, which is mentioned in history as far back as 1091. It is the oldest of Prague's towns. The center of the Old Town has always been the Old Town Square, dominated by the Gothic-style Church of Our Lady Before Tyn and the Town Hall. The “New” Town was founded in the 14th century.

Day 2 of AIR PACKAGE Arrive in Prague

Upon arrival at the Prague airport, claim your luggage and clear customs. If your luggage is lost, you must fill out a PIR form before leaving the customs area. VBT representatives are not allowed into the customs area. Also, make sure that your VBT luggage tags are attached to your bags so that your representative can identify you.

Leave customs, then enter the arrival hall and look for your VBT representative, who will be holding a VBT sign. Your representative welcomes you to Prague and helps you transfer via taxi or van (approximately 30 minutes, depending upon traffic) to your Prague hotel. Note: At this time, please verify with your VBT representative the time of your transfer from your Vienna hotel to the Vienna airport at the end of your trip.

If you arrive early, your hotel room may not be available until 1 p.m. You may store your luggage with the Reception Desk. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the city with your included 1-day Prague Transportation Pass.

VBT provides you with City Information in your Final Travel Booklet that includes information and recommendations on what to see and do in Prague during your stay.

Day 4 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Independent Exploration of Prague / Join VBT Air Package guests

Spend another day enjoying Prague.

VBT Air Package guests arrive throughout the day.

Day 1 of BIKE TOUR All guests meet in Prague / Meet Trip Leaders / Warm-up ride and welcome reception

At 8:45 a.m., all guests meet the VBT representative at the hotel in Prague and transfer to Cesky Krumlov in the south of the Czech Republic (approximately 3 hours including a stop on the way). Our hotel in Prague is the Mamaison Hotel Riverside Prague (address: Janáckovo nábreží 15 – Prague 5 – phone + 420 225 994 611). Meet your Trip Leaders during a planned stop on the way.

Cesky Krumlov is a unique town in Bohemia, built in the protection of a curve of the river Vltava. The historical center has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992. In Cesky Krumlov, meet our local guide, Standa, and follow him for a short walking tour and introduction to Czech life. Get some tips from Standa on finding a restaurant for lunch on your own.

At 2 p.m., check in at the beautiful, 5-star Hotel Ruze. This former Jesuit monastery (built in Renaissance style) dates to the 16th century. Settle in and join your Trip Leaders for a safety and bike-fitting session, followed by a warm-up ride around the city.
Later, gather with the group for a welcome cocktail reception on the hotel's panoramic terrace and have dinner at the hotel restaurant.

Day 2 of BIKE TOUR Cycle to Plav / Guided tour in the Historical Center of Cesky Krumlov

After breakfast we will cycle through a beautiful and conserved landscape to Plav, a typical little Bohemian village on the banks of a small river. Lunch today is hosted by a local family, and we'll get a feel for Czech daily life during our visit. On the way, we take the opportunity to stop in the quiet countryside at Zlatá Koruna, one of the best-preserved Gothic monasteries in Bohemia. If you like, board the VBT shuttle to avoid pedaling the few small hills.

Return to the hotel in time to visit a gem of Cesky Krumlov on an included walking tour, the Rosemberg family chateau. Its preserved Baroque theater and original stage are still used for Baroque opera performances three times a year. Afterward, continue exploring the city center, discovering examples of Baroque, Renaissance and Gothic architecture, and find a restaurant where you may enjoy dinner on your own.

Day 3 of BIKE TOUR Discover Sumava, the largest national park in the Czech Republic / Cross the Czech – German border / Cycle to Passau

In the morning, travel by train through the Sumava National Park to Nova Pec, not far from the German border. Take an amazing bike ride through a beautiful forest, far from traffic and villages. At Nove Udoli, walk across the border. This border crossing was closed in 1945 and reopened some time ago for pedestrians and bicycles only.

Across the border, begin cycling in Bavaria on a downhill stretch of former railway track. Bavaria is among Europe's most beautiful and serene cycling areas. On your way, stop at a Bavarian tavern for a typical lunch, prepared by the owner-family. Continue cycling to Waldkirchen, where you shuttle or bike to the historic Baroque city of Passau, which is situated at the confluence of three rivers: the Danube, Inn and Ilz. Tonight, enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant, right on the romantic Danube River.

Day 4 of BIKE TOUR Ride along the River Inn / Explore Passau

Enjoy a leisurely cycle along the River Inn, the frontier between Germany and Austria. Start by following the German bike path. At Neuhaus, cross the river to the Austrian town of Schärding with its colorful, Baroque-style burgher houses on the two town squares. After exploring Schärding, return to Passau. En route, stop for a delicious picnic lunch on the river's opposite bank, where the Neuberg fortress looms. Use the rest of the afternoon to look around Passau and shop the flea market and antique shops. You might choose to visit magnificent St. Stephen's Cathedral. Dinner is on your own tonight; you'll find that Passau offers many dining choices.

Day 5 of BIKE TOUR Danube impressions by bike and boat / Schlögener Schlinge

Start your day with a boating adventure on the most popular river route in Europe. Cruise through the famous Schlögener Schlinge in Austria, where the Danube snakes through steep, forested mountains in a series of sharp and scenic, serpentine bends. Silence surrounds you, except for the occasional hum of passing barges. (Note: In October, cruising is not available and is replaced by a coach transfer.)

Begin cycling at Schlögen towards Aschach, where you stop for lunch on your own. Continue through a beautiful forested region, then follow the Danube bike path to Ottensheim, renowned for its hilltop castle, before we conclude our ride in Linz. Here, we transfer by private motorcoach to our hotel at Weissenkirchen. The village is dominated by St. Michael's Church, which dates to 987. There are also many Renaissance buildings with romantic inner courtyards. One of them houses our charming, family-run hotel. Many vinegut (winemakers) and wine cellars call Weissenkirchen home and are located in beautiful, ancient manor houses. Have a famous young heuriger wine in one of the taverns. Later, gather for a group dinner in a typical local Austrian guesthouse.

Day 6 of BIKE TOUR Cycle through Wachau Valley / Melk Abbey / The romantic town of Dürnstein

In the morning, cycle through the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to Melk. The Wachau is one of Austria's most striking landscapes, featuring a mix of hillside orchards and vineyards among ruined castles, abbeys and churches. In Melk, take an included, guided tour of the spectacular Benedictine Abbey, one of Europe's largest Baroque monasteries. Eat lunch on your own, perhaps in the abbey gardens, before cycling along the Danube to the lovely village of Spitz. From Spitz, cycle back to Weissenkirchen and maybe opt to continue farther to Dürnstein, where Richard the Lionhearted was kept prisoner in 1193. Tonight's farewell dinner is in a local restaurant within a private, ancient winepress room.

Day 7 of BIKE TOUR Transfer to Vienna / Free Day / VBT No-Air Package ends

After breakfast, transfer to Vienna, arriving at approximately 10:30 a.m.

VBT No-Air Package guests: Your tour ends at the Hotel Stefanie in Vienna. Important: Train departures from Vienna prior to 11 a.m. are not recommended. If you depart earlier, you are responsible for your own transfer arrangements from the last hotel in Weissenkirchen. A taxi ride to the Vienna train station costs approximately 15 euros/22 USD (approximately 20 minutes). A taxi ride to the Vienna airport costs approximately 30 euros/45 USD (approximately 40 minutes).

VBT Air Package guests: Your room at Hotel Stefanie may not be available until 1 p.m., but you can leave your luggage with the Reception Desk. VBT provides City Information included in your Final Travel Booklet containing recommendations for cafés, restaurants, museums and transportation. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Vienna. Your hotel is located near the historic “Inner Ring” in the Old Town; many of the Old World palaces and concert halls are easily accessible.

Day 8 of AIR PACKAGE Depart for U.S.

After breakfast*, transfer to the Vienna airport (approximately 30 minutes) for your departing flight**. Please note: Ensure that you are ready in the hotel reception area at the designated time. VBT recommends that you check your transfer time in your “Transfer Reminder” or with the hotel's reception desk the night before your flight.

*Please note: For guests with early-morning departures, breakfast at the hotel may not be available. Please check with the Front Desk to verify the times that breakfast is served.

**Please note: VBT transfer times and departure points are finalized in advance and cannot be modified for individual guests. If you extend your stay beyond the scheduled program dates, return transportation to the airport will be at your own expense.

Day 1 of POST-TRIP EXTENSION Independent Exploration of Vienna

If you have chosen the Post-Trip Extension, continue to explore Vienna on your own during your independent trip extension.

Vienna is famous for its museums, and today you may want to start your discovery of the city with a stop at some of the best. The Secession Building is renowned for its architectural design as well as for its Art Nouveau collections. The Kunsthistorisches, rated one of Europe's finest art museums, has a superb collection of Rubens, along with a large collection of works by Pieter Brueghel the Elder. In the evening, enjoy dinner on your own in one of the city's many fine restaurants.

Day 2 of POST-TRIP EXTENSION Independent exploration of Vienna

Today, continue your exploration of the city, perhaps visiting the Spanish Riding School of Vienna. The school trains both horses and riders according to centuries-old methods and is famous for its Lipizzaner horses. Or spend the afternoon at the Hofburg Imperial Palace. Built in 1279, it remains an impressive tribute to the Habsburgs' great power and wealth. Today it houses the offices of the Austrian president, the chapel where the Vienna Boys' Choir performs, and the hall where the Spanish Riding School's Lipizzaner stallions amaze their audiences. Another notable sight is St. Stephen's Cathedral, renowned for its Gothic stonework and the largest bell in Austria. The Schönbrunn Palace Gardens offer symmetrical paths and manicured trees. Be certain to shop at the Nachsmarkt — Austria's largest and grandest open-air market.

If you've already explored the urban charms of Vienna, head for the rolling hills and trails of the Wienerwald or the Prater woods. Beethoven used the Viennese woods for inspiration and often strolled through them while composing music in his head. Strauss also incorporated the woods and their charms into his music. The delightful woods of Vienna are within easy reach of the city.

Day 3 of POST-TRIP EXTENSION Vienna extension concludes / Depart for U.S.

After breakfast* on the final morning, transfer to the Vienna airport (approximately 30 minutes) for your departing flight**. Please ensure you are waiting in the hotel reception area at the designated transfer time. VBT recommends that you check your transfer time in your “Transfer Reminder” or with the hotel's reception desk the night before your flight.

*Please note: For guests with early-morning departures, breakfast at the hotel may not be available. Please check with the Front Desk to verify the times that breakfast is served.

** Please note: VBT transfer times and departure points are finalized in advance and cannot be modified for individual guests. If you extend your stay beyond the scheduled program dates, return transportation to the airport will be at your own expense.

Czech Republic, Germany & Austria 2012

Pre and Post Trip Extensions

Pre-Trip Extension

Prague 2012 - 2 nights for only $295

Make your own discoveries in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Tour the enormous and spectacular Prague Castle, believed to be the largest ancient castle in the world. Stroll along the pedestrian-only Charles Bridge, where you find street vendors, artists and entertainers, as well as a fantastic city view. Visit Wenceslas Square and the National Museum in the bustling New Town, or sightsee in elegant Vinohrady, a residential area that once was covered in vineyards. Today, the district is known for its gardens, parks and colorfully restored old homes.

Available only with the Air Inclusive Package.

Note: Single supplement for this extension is $195.

Post-Trip Extension

Vienna 2012 - 2 nights for only $345

Once the capital of the vast Austro-Hungarian Empire, Vienna is a fascinating mix of gilded palaces and royal buildings interspersed with modern European flair. Spend three days in the city of music, cafés, parks, pastries and Baroque and Gothic architecture. Visit the Schönbrunn Palace and stroll through its gardens. In 1772, a six-year-old Mozart performed in the lavish Hall of Mirrors.

Immerse yourself in the city’s musical history. Tour the Vienna Opera, or visit the home where Beethoven wrote his Fourth Symphony. You’ll have plenty of time to window-shop on the trendy Mariahilfer Strasse or enjoy an espresso in one of Vienna’s many coffeehouses.

Available only with the Air Inclusive Package.

Note: Single supplement for this extension is $145.

Accommodations

Mamaison Hotel Riverside Prague

The Mamaison Hotel Riverside Prague is ideally located on the west bank of the Vltava River near the Charles Bridge. The upscale boutique hotel boasts award-winning Art Nouveau design. The hotel’s location offers easy access to Prague’s historical and tourist districts. The National Theatre, Dancing House, Prague Castle and numerous other architectural and cultural treasures are situated within walking distance. Music lovers will also appreciate the proximity to Mozart’s Prague residence. VBT has also included Prague Transportation passes that allow you easy unlimited public transportation to other areas of Prague.

Hotel Ruze

The Hotel Ruze (the “Rose”) was constructed in the 16th century as a Jesuit monastery and university. It preserves the beauty and style of the Renaissance, with beautiful wooden floors and old furniture in its bedrooms. The hotel features a beautifully decorated conference and concert hall, where, thanks to superior acoustics, concerts are held from time to time. The panoramic terrace overlooking the river and countryside is the ideal place for relaxing after a day of sightseeing and activities. An Internet connection is available in the hotel lobby.

Altstadt Hotel

The Altstadt Hotel is located in the quietest part of the wonderful city of Passau (its address means, “in the corner, where the three rivers meet”), right on the banks of the Danube From its terrace, bar and restaurant, guests can enjoy a wonderful view of the river and castle overlooking the water. The hotel is located in an ancient German building, and it preserves a warm, family character in an intimate atmosphere. The rooms are quite spacious with a modern touch. An Internet connection is available in the hotel lobby.

Hotel Raffelsberger Hof

Decorated with blooming flowers and plants, the Raffelsberger Hof was built in 1574 as a shipmaster’s house and is an architectural highlight of the late Renaissance. Antiques and numerous detailed touches, such as old door locks and lamps, give this house a special flair of days gone by. The hotel was carefully renovated by its owners, the Anton family. It features vaulted ceilings, a beautifully tended garden with cherry trees, and 15 tastefully decorated bedrooms. It’s a wonderful and quiet place to stay. An Internet connection is available in the hotel lobby.

Hotel Stefanie

Typical of Viennese tradition, the 4-star Stefanie Hotel was named after the wife of the Crown Prince Rudolph, Princess Stefanie. It has been known for its superior quality and friendly service for more than 100 years. Located near the Danube River on Taborstrasse, the main road into the very heart of the city, its location makes it close to notable sights like St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The hotel is located in an area full of restaurants and shops, and it is well served by city transportation, making it a great location from which to discover the city on foot. An Internet connection is available in the hotel lobby.

Rating Level

Easy

This tour offers easy terrain throughout the trip and is ideal for beginning cyclists.