DAY 1: UK - Prague.
Fly to Prague where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for two nights. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore this magnificent city. (D)

DAY 2: Prague. Included sightseeing.
The Czech capital is a beautiful treasure trove of Gothic and Baroque architecture that inspired the works of Dvorak and Smetana, two of the city's best-known composers. This morning, our sightseeing tour takes you on a delightful journey around this stunning capital's major landmarks, including the elegant National Theatre, ornate Baroque Church of St Nicholas, stately Charles Bridge and fabled old Town Hall with its Astronomical Clock. In the afternoon, there is time to enjoy the city at your leisure, perhaps revisiting some of the sights witnessed this morning or just watching the world go by over a drink or meal at an al-fresco café in the bustling Old Town Square. Tonight, don't miss the optional folklore dinner. (B)

DAY 3: Prague - Cesky Krumlov - Vienna.
This morning, travel through beautiful south Bohemian countryside into Moravia, stopping en-route to enjoy the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cesky Krumlov, sitting on the banks of the Vltava River. Wander around the historic, winding streets of this fairytale medieval town and take photos of its splendid castle, the second largest in the Czech Republic and known as the 'Pearl of the Renaissance'. Next, continue on to Vienna, Austria's elegant capital, for a two-night stay, with the evening free for you to relax and introduce yourself to this captivating city. Alternatively, an optional dinner is available. (B)

DAY 4: Vienna. Included sightseeing.
Your day starts with an interesting tour taking in the best-known highlights of Baroque Vienna, for centuries the seat of the powerful Habsburg Empire, and also known as the 'City of Music'. Gaze at the graceful State Opera house, handsome Parliament building and impressive Town Hall, before strolling around Heroes' Square to marvel at the vast Hofburg Palace, home to 22 museums. This afternoon, grab the opportunity of an optional trip to the famous Schönbrunn Palace, the summer residence of the Habsburgs, to admire its frescoes, ornate chambers and exquisite gardens. This evening, another optional highlight is available - a splendid Hofburg concert outing. (B)

DAY 5: Vienna - Esztergom - Budapest.
Bid farewell to Vienna today as you cross the border into Hungary, stopping to visit historic Esztergom, the birthplace of St Stephen and the country's oldest town, crowned by a colossal hilltop Basilica. Next, enjoy the scenic splendour of the famous Danube Bend, where Europe's longest river twists through a narrow valley of green hills, fortresses and beautiful villages. Later, arrive in Budapest for a two-night stay, with plenty of time for you to enjoy an optional Danube cruise, allowing you to wonder at the Hungarian capital's beautiful illuminations. (B, D)

DAY 6: Budapest. Included sightseeing.
Known as the 'Queen of the Danube', Hungary's lovely capital comprises the cities of Buda and Pest dissected by the broad blue ribbon of the Danube. The impressive Heroes' Square, with its grand monuments, typifies the modern capital, whilst along the Danube banks, rows of charming old inns and wine cellars reveal the older, enchanting side of this multi-faceted city. This morning, our included sightseeing tour takes you to many of the principal landmarks, such as the Parliament house in Pest and then on to Buda to see the grandiose Royal Castle, the ramparts of the Fisherman's Bastion and the 700-year old Matthias Church. This afternoon, enjoy time to explore the city independently, maybe revisiting some of the sights enjoyed this morning. Tonight, there is a chance to enjoy an optional Hungarian night. (B)

DAY 7: Budapest - Bratislava - Prague.
Another fascinating day as we head north west into Slovakia, with time in Bratislava, its capital. Nestled in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, this charming town boasts paved streets, handsome mansions and the imposing Gothic St Stephen's Cathedral, coronation site of many Hungarian kings. Later, cross the Czech border and continue through the rich farmlands of Moravia to Prague for one night. (B, D)

DAY 8: Prague - UK.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK. (B)