Eastern Bloc

Welcome to Prague. We will meet you on arrival and transfer you to your hotel.

This evening, a welcome reception awaits. Stay Three Nights: Almanac X Prague

Take in city views at Prague Castle, then stroll over Charles Bridge to the Old Town Square.

Tonight, dine at Alcron restaurant, a fine dining restaurant known for its use of local Czech produce. (B/D)

• Descendants of the Czech Republic's oldest aristocratic family welcome you to their 18th-century baroque home, Chateau Jemniste. Explore the estate and enjoy a special lunch then watch on in awe as birds of prey free-fly during a falconry display.

Venture into Germany and on to the Dresden Elbe Valley. Visit the Transparent Factory, a building where innovation and stunning architecture meet, which also happens to be the showroom of renowned car manufacturer, Volkswagen. Continue to Berlin for dinner. Stay Three Nights: Westin Grand Berlin (B/D)

Embark on a fascinating discovery of Berlin including a visit to Checkpoint Charlie and Brandenburg Gate, as well as the Checkpoint Charlie Museum. (B)

• Perhaps take a boat ride on the river Spree. Alternatively, visit the one-of-a-kind small streets and renovated courtyards of the artist district, which was once the centre of Jewish life in Berlin. On your route you will encounter traces of the eventful past of this former ‘tolerance district', in which different religions lived peacefully together.

Travel into Poland and arrive in Warsaw. Enjoy dinner at a Polish inn that features classic cuisine alongside live folk music. Stay Two Nights: Warsaw, Hotel Bristol (B/D)

• Later, enjoy a musical celebration of locally-born composer Frederic Chopin during a private concert performance of his famous work.

Today in Auschwitz, visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum for a tour revealing the sombre history of the concentration camp, as well as a walk through the grounds.

Later, travel to Krakow, where you will have dinner. Stay Two Nights: Sheraton Grand Krakow Hotel or similar (B/D)

• Take in the sights of Krakow on a walking exploration, including its 13th-century square. Alternatively, learn to make authentic Polish food, such as pierogis, with a local cook as you learn the secrets to this tasty cuisine.

Gain insight into over 700 years of history of mining in Europe with a visit to the World Heritage-listed Wieliczka Salt Mine. Be amazed by the underground passageways that began operating in the 13th century.

Afterwards, travel to Budapest, the romantic capital city of Hungary. After checking into your hotel, the remainder of this evening is at your leisure to relax or explore. Stay: Budapest, Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest (B)

Be transferred to the airport. (B)