Helsinki to Prague

Welcome to Helsinki, Finland's largest city situated on the shore of the Gulf of Finland between Stockholm, Tallinn and Saint Petersburg. In 2012, it earned the prestigious title of World Design Capital, drawing a wave of travellers. In the early 19th century, Carl Ludvig Engel masterminded a neoclassical city centre, with the iconic Senate Square as its centrepiece. Helsinki showcases a rich tapestry of architectural styles, including neoclassical, Art Nouveau, and sleek modern functionalism.

We don't want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don't, we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 5.00pm. You will meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director this evening for a welcome drink at the hotel.

This morning, we'll embark on a city tour to explore the fascinating town of Helsinki. During our sightseeing tour, we will journey past Helsinki's most iconic attractions, with photo stops along the way. Marvel at the splendour of Senate Square, the grace of Uspenski Cathedral, and the grandeur of Parliament House. We'll also see Finlandia Hall, the Sibelius Park & Monument, and the Underground Temple.

We also visit the architectural gem, Temppeliaukio Church, also known as the Rock Church. Both a tourist attraction and an active Lutheran church, it was built directly into solid rock.

Next, we'll explore a local market, granting you some free time to savour a leisurely lunch. Later in the evening, we'll reconvene for a group welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

This morning we visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Suomenlinna. Set on a cluster of islands connected by bridges, it was a maritime fortress and base for the Archipelago Fleet built in the 1700s by Sweden and known at the time as Viapori. It was then under the rule of the Russian Imperial Government in the 1800s. In 1917 Finland gained independence from Russia and in 1918 they renamed the site Suomenlinna, or ‘Castle of Finland', to reflect their new independence. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Finland.

Returning to the city, the remainder of the day is at leisure for you to explore more of Helsinki to your own pace. Why not immerse yourself in the Finnish culture? Seek warmth in one of the thousand saunas dotted around the capital or walk to the nearest bakery and try a traditional lingonberry pie - the choice is yours!

After breakfast we bid farewell to Helsinki and set sail on a ferry to our next destination. This afternoon, we'll reach Tallinn, the capital situated on the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland. Tallinn is a city that caters to every palate, blending the charming Old Town, known for its medieval architecture, with a bustling modern hub of skyscrapers, vibrant bars, and enticing restaurants.

After some free time for lunch, we begin with a drive around Tallinn's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, that offers a mesmerising perspective of the ancient city wall.

We arrive in the Upper Town (Castle Hill) and commence our walking tour through the narrow, cobbled streets towards the viewing platform where we'll enjoy a magnificent view of the Old Town below.

We'll then descend to the much livelier lower Old Town. Highlights include the Town Wall with its beautiful towers, the 15th-century Gothic Town Hall, Saint Nicholas Church, now a museum of medieval art, and one of the oldest working pharmacies in the world that dates back to 1422! We'll also pass by numerous authentic merchant houses which were used by the Hanseatic League (an alliance of traders spanning Northern Europe) during the 13th-17th centuries.

We wrap up our tour with a leisurely stroll along the bustling main shopping street. The evening is yours to savour at your own pace.

Enjoy the day at leisure to relax or discover more of Tallinn at your own pace. Perhaps consider a relaxing promenade through the Old Town square, where you can immerse yourself in the local ambiance at one of the numerous charming cafes or restaurants.

Today we cross the border into Latvia, and begin making our way to Riga, the dynamic coastal capital of this Baltic gem. Regardless of the wars endured, political regime changes and economic upheavals, Riga remains a lively and spirited city with its own distinct charm and style. Over the years, visitors have been drawn to the city thanks to its old town, historical importance, and reputation for having one of the most buzzing nightlife scenes in Europe.

Before arriving in Riga, we stop at Sigulda, a picturesque town with some amazing scenery. On the town's outskirts, we explore the historic Turaida Castle, a medieval marvel erected in the 13th century, now an integral part of the encompassing museum reserve.

Special Experience: Visit the once top secret Ligatne Soviet Bunker, concealed 9 metres beneath the surface. Declassified in 2003, the bunker was constructed in the 1980s for the political elite who would govern the state in the event of a nuclear war. Its 2,000 square metres of space was intended to accommodate up to 250 people. The bunker had direct communication lines with the Kremlin and was self-sustaining, able to produce its own electricity and filter oxygen and water.

We then continue to Riga, arriving in the evening.

Our morning sightseeing tour features Riga's most significant landmarks. We begin with a drive along the central boulevards, taking in the views of the City Canal parks, Bastion Hill, the Powder Tower, the Latvian National Theatre, the Fine Arts Museum, and the Art Nouveau buildings from the early 20th century. Next, we encounter the Freedom Monument, the University of Latvia, and the Daugava River.

Special Experience: Go behind the scenes of the beautiful Riga Opera House, with a backstage pass including a champagne reception. Lastly, we'll discover Old Riga on a walking tour. Sights include the Dome Cathedral, Saint Peter's Church, Parliament House and Old Riga Castle. Wandering through the picturesque streets of the Old Town, you'll notice many of the old buildings have been restored and now house restaurants, cafes, bars, and souvenir shops – a great spot to return to for dinner.

The afternoon is yours to savour at your own pace. If you'd like to connect with the locals, relish a distinctive shopping adventure, and admire the architecture from the 20th century, consider a visit to the vibrant Riga Central Markets.

Today we make our way to Vilnius, the captivating capital of Lithuania. This picturesque city is anchored by its enchanting Baroque old town and nestled along the serene banks of the Neris and Vilnia Rivers.

We depart Riga in the morning and travel to Rundale Palace. This magnificent 18th-century palace stands as a remarkable testament to Baroque and Rococo art in northern Europe, featuring an impressive total of 136 lavish rooms. Constructed over a span of four years, this palace initially served as a summer retreat for Duke Ernst Johann of Courland. The period from 1765 to 1768 saw extensive redecoration by a German sculptor and Italian painters, and their artistic influence remains evident in the palace's interior to this day.

Special Experience: Receive a rococo-style welcome at Rundale Palace, including a tour through the opulent apartments, before enjoying a short baroque music concert. Continuing south, we make a stop to visit the sacred pilgrimage site known as the Hill of Crosses. The exact origin of the tradition of placing crosses on the hill remains uncertain, but it is widely believed to be a memorial to those who lost their lives during the Eastern European and Russian Empire uprisings in the 1800s. During Soviet times, the authorities would remove the crosses, only for them to reappear within hours. Today the Hill of Crosses stands to remind us of the suffering, hope, devotion and undefeated faith of the Lithuanian people.

This morning, our city tour of Vilnius kicks off at the Cathedral of Vilnius. We then proceed to explore the charming Old Town located on the left bank of the Neris River, showcasing the rich heritage of Lithuania. Along the way, we pause to admire the 16th-century Gothic masterpiece, Saint Anne's Church, and the baroque-style Church of Saint Peter and Paul, dating back to the 17th century.

Our next stop is Vilnius University, established in 1579 and renowned as the oldest and most prestigious institution in the Baltic region. Throughout its long history, the university faced various challenges, including an 80 year closure following the November Uprising and periods of occupation by Soviet and German forces. Following Lithuania's independence in 1991, the university proudly regained its position as one of Eastern Europe's top higher education institutions.

Continuing our journey, we proceed to the 17th-century Baroque Chapel of the Gate of Dawn, a significant pilgrimage destination for Catholics. This chapel is renowned for its housing of the Madonna of Vilnius painting. Our tour concludes at the Amber Gallery. This afternoon is free for you to enjoy at leisure.

We farewell Lithuania today and cross the border into Poland. Nestled in the heart of Europe, Poland has played the dual role of being a connecting link and a historical battleground between Eastern and Western Europe. Our route takes us to Bialystok, the largest city in the northeastern part of the country. This city, enriched by the fusion of Polish, Jewish, and Belarusian influences, has cultivated a distinctive and unique culture all its own.

On our way to Bialystok, we stop in the village of Wigry. Here we'll stretch our legs and have the opportunity to take a photo of the former Camaldolese Monastery, built on a Peninsula of Lake Wigry by the Camaldolese monks in the 1600s.

We'll then stop in the leisurely town of Augustow, where we enjoy some free time to explore this peaceful and serene city. Arriving in Bialystok in the afternoon, we'll meet with a local guide for a short, panoramic tour of the town.

Today, we sit back and watch the rolling hills and verdant forests pass us by as we make our way to Warsaw, the largest city and capital of Poland. You will notice the difference in architectural styles and charms as we move further into central Europe.

Along the way we stop at Bialowieza, a small village in the heart of the Bialowieza Forest. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is one of the last remaining parts of the primeval forest that once stretched across the European plain.

Special Experience: Enjoy a horse and carriage ride through the Bialowieza Forest, the natural habitat of the majestic European bison. We return to the village for some leisure time, before continuing to Warsaw.

During a morning tour of Warsaw, we will delve into the rich history of Poland's capital city. We begin in the Old Town, intricately reconstructed after WWII. The Old Town is an excellent example of a compromise between historic values and modern needs and is filled with art galleries, shops, restaurants, cafes, and workshops. We'll learn more about the city at the Historical Museum of Warsaw. The museum is a collection of exhibits depicting the ups and downs of Warsaw throughout its long history.

Next, we embark on a scenic drive along a section of the 'Royal Route,' graced by magnificent palaces, aristocratic mansions, renowned sculptures, and historic churches. Today we'll also see the Warsaw Ghetto Memorial, the Monument of the Warsaw Uprising and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the Jewish Ghetto. We conclude our day with a visit to the Chopin Monument, situated in the elevated section of Lazienki Park, and the Belvedere Palace, which has served as the residence for Polish Presidents.

The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. For a memorable experience, consider ascending the 150 stone steps of the Saint Anne's Church Bell Tower, where you'll be treated to the most enchanting vista of the Old Town and the eastern side of Warsaw, especially at sunset. To satisfy your palate, don't miss the opportunity to savour Poland's renowned culinary delight, the Pierogi, a delectable dumpling prepared in a multitude of mouthwatering variations, featuring fillings like meat, potato, cheese, or spinach.

Optional Excursion: Chopin Recital - Enjoy a recital of Chopin's music performed by celebrated Polish pianists. The concert consists of two parts with intermission when a glass of sparkling wine is served. 1hr - from Euro 65pp

Today we continue to the enchanting city of Krakow via train, granting us the opportunity to relax and admire the picturesque landscapes unfolding before us. Renowned as Poland's medieval capital, Krakow sits gracefully along the banks of the Vistula River. The city boasts a wealth of Gothic and Renaissance churches, monasteries, and abbeys, imbuing visitors with a sense of stepping back in time. Upon our arrival, we will embark on a tour of the city's highlights. At its heart is the historic Old Town Square which is surrounded by a series of public parks called 'The Planty'.

Within the Old Town we'll see the old defence walls and the market square, Rynek Glowny. Here we see the impressive Wawel Royal Cathedral and explore the interior of Saint Mary's Basilica, a church distinguished by its two distinct towers of varying heights. Erected in the 14th century with foundations tracing back to the early 13th century, it stands as an exemplary masterpiece of Polish Gothic architecture. We'll also see the Town Hall Tower, the only remaining part of the Town Hall, and the Cloth Hall where merchants would meet to discuss the state of business.

Delve into history at the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mine, one of the world's oldest operating mines, dating back to the 13th century. The Wieliczka Salt Mine continually produced table salt right up until 2007. Made up of approximately 300 kilometres of shafts throughout nine levels, the mine reaches a depth of 327 metres into the earth's surface.

Throughout the levels, there are many galleries that show magnificent works of art, all carved out of salt. The most impressive of all is the Saint Kinga's Chapel, a place of worship since 1896. Its walls are decorated with carvings of scenes from the New Testament and chandeliers with crystals made from salt.

In the afternoon we pay a moving visit to Auschwitz, (located 70 kilometres from Krakow) where the most horrific crimes were committed under Nazi occupation during WWII. Today, the preserved buildings house displays of photographs and articles that evoke the personal tragedy of individuals. They also bear witness to the grand scale of the horrors that occurred between 1940 and 1945 when an estimated 4 million people lost their lives in these camps.

Spend the day at leisure, enjoying this glorious city at your own pace.

Optional Excursion: Jewish Quarter - Visit the Jewish Quarter in Kazmirizh district which was described in Australian author's Thomas Keneally book ‘Schindler's Ark' and later produced into a film. Please note this optional tour includes an English-speaking guide & entrance to the Schindler's Museum. 3hrs - from Euro 48pp (minimum 8 pax)

Today, revel in the scenic drive as we journey through the picturesque Polish countryside. We will then cross the border into the Czech Republic, heading towards the tranquil town of Kroměříž. The Czech Republic is one of Europe's newest countries, filled with medieval towns and fairytale castles. Kroměříž boasts the remarkable Archbishop's Chateau, along with several Renaissance and Baroque churches, as well as lovely gardens.

In the afternoon, we visit the Moravian Karst, a breathtaking natural wonderland comprising over 1,100 caverns and coves. This region stands as one of Central Europe's foremost karst landscapes. During our visit, we'll embark on a brief stroll to the Mococha Gorge, a remarkable sinkhole plunging to a depth of 138.7 metres. Following this, we'll delve deeper into the area's marvels as we explore the impressive Punkva Caves. We continue to Kroměříž, checking into our hotel in the evening.

This morning we will travel to the southern bohemian town of Český Krumlov. Situated on the banks of the Vltava River, which gracefully divides the town in two, Český Krumlov appears as if it's been plucked from the pages of a fairy tale.

En route we'll stop at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed and historical town of Třeboň for some free time. As one of the most picturesque towns in the Czech Republic, it is the perfect place to take in the idyllic countryside which has been thoroughly transformed since the 14th century. This transformation has resulted in over 6,000 lakes, numerous islands, magnificent wetlands and countless, rare flora and fauna. Upon arrival into Český Krumlov the evening is at your leisure to relax or explore at your own pace.

Today we travel north to Prague, a city often hailed as the most beautiful in Europe. While many European capitals suffered extensive destruction during World War II, Prague emerged from the war unscathed, adding to its allure.

First, we explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Český Krumlov and its castle complex. Construction of the castle began back in the late 13th century and the town started to form around it. The town became very popular as it was an important stop along the Vltava River and the trade routes in Bohemia. Surrounded by rolling hills, the cobblestone streets of Český Krumlov are dotted with over 300 protected medieval buildings and the second largest castle complex in the Czech Republic.

In 1253 the Český Krumlov Castle was completed as the residence of the Lords of the Krumlov (members of the Rosenburg family for over 300 years). Throughout the next few hundred years many Emperors, Lords and Dukes added to the castle which gives it its charm today.

Special Experience: Enjoy a tea or coffee in the Český Krumlov Castle Tower, a great location to sit back and take in the historic surroundings. We arrive in Prague in the evening.

Today we will see the amazing Baroque and Renaissance buildings that give Prague so much character. First, we pass by the National Museum and the National Theatre that stand at the top of Wenceslas Square, before continuing to the area known as 'Mala Strana' or the Lesser Town.

We explore Hradčany, the castle district of Prague and visit Prague Castle, the largest castle complex in the world. Dating back to the 9th century, the castle is where kings of Bohemia, Holy Emperors and presidents of Czechoslovakia have had their offices. Prague Castle is also where the Crown Jewels of the Czech Republic are housed and where we'll see the world-famous Saint Vitus Cathedral.

While in the castle complex, we also visit the Golden Lane, a small street of 11 historic houses that date back to the 15th century. Each house is painted in a different colour to represent their origin and showcases weapons, armoury, and textiles.

We'll then cross the river into the Jewish Quarter and continue to the famous Old Town Square, home to the Astronomical Clock and imposing Gothic Church of Our Lady before Týn. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in this amazing city, before a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning, marking the completion of our incredible adventure through Finland and Central Europe. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!