54ab12c2ac5c5 munichsalzburgviennaandkrakow2015 1 5 by Go Real Europe

An Adventure in Europe Specially created for Jane Example and John Example Itinerary Preview Munich, Salzburg, Vienna, and Krakow September 01 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; September 15, 2015

ITINERARY OVERVIEW Members of the Travel Group: Jane Example and John Example 1. This is only a summary of your trip! Full-length itineraries include destination information, travel directions, maps, pictures, tips, and other details. 2. Select “Hotels” on your client dashboard to see hotel pictures and descriptions.

Pre-Paid Tours and Activities: • Guided Full-Day Excursion to the Neuschwanstein Castle

• Walking Tour of Krakow’s Historic Center

• Sound of Music Guided Bus Tour

• Guided Excursion to the Auschwitz Concentration Camp

• Evening Guided Walk through Vienna’s Inner City

• Guided Bus Excursion to the Salt Mine in Wieliczka

Pre-Paid Transportation: • 2nd Class Train Tickets from Munich to Salzburg

• Train Tickets from Vienna to Krakow

• 2nd Class Train Tickets from Salzburg to Vienna

• Private Transfer from Krakow Rail Station to Your Hotel

• Public Transport Tickets for Vienna

Pre-Paid Hotels, including Daily Breakfast: • 3 nights in the (Hotel T.B.D.) in Munich

• 3 nights in the (Hotel T.B.D.) in Vienna

• 4 nights in the (Hotel T.B.D.) in Salzburg

• 3 nights in the (Hotel T.B.D.) in Krakow

Travel Information included in your itinerary: • City Maps of Vienna • Point to point travel directions

• Free Skype calling to landlines worldwide, and to mobile phones in the U.S. and Canada

• Destination information & travel advice

Total Trip Cost for All Travelers:

N/A e

Please see payment details and travel conditions here.

ITINERARY CONTENTS 1 September 01, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Arrival in Munich Airport and Transfer to Hotel by Taxi . Self Guided Visit to Munich’s Altstadt . . . . . . . . . . . The Hofbräuhaus, Munich’s Famed Beerhall . . . . . . .

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2 September 02, 2015 . . . . . . . . Visit to the Deutsches Museum . . . . Tour of the Residence Palace . . . . . Stroll through the English Garden . .

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3 September 03, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Guided Full-Day Bus Excursion to the Neuschwanstein Castle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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4 September 04, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Taxi Transfer to the Munich Main Rail Station . . . . . . . Rail Journey from Munich to Salzburg . . . . . . . . . . . Arrival in Salzburg and Transfer to Hotel by Public Taxi . Self Guided Visit to the Fortress Hohensalzburg . . . . . Self Guided Visit to the Altstadt (Old Town) . . . . . . . .

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4 4 4

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5 September 05, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Sound of Music Guided Bus Excursion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Self Guided Visit to the Neustadt and Mirabell Palace Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 6 September 06, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Self Guided Excursion to the Peak of the Untersberg . . . . Visit to the Hellbrunn Palace and Gardens . . . . . . . . . . Visit to the Mönchsberg and the Augustinian Beer Hall . . .

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12 12 12 12

7 September 07, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Self Guided Excursion to the Königssee (King’s Lake) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Self Guided Excursion to Berchtesgaden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 8 September 08, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Self-Arranged Taxi Transfer to Salzburg Main Train Station for Rail Departure . Rail Journey from Salzburg to Vienna on Westbahn Railways . . . . . . . . . . Arrival in Vienna’s Westbahnhof Station and Transfer to Hotel by Public Taxi . Self Guided Visit to Vienna’s Inner City (Innere Stadt) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Evening Guided Walk through Vienna’s Inner City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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9 September 09, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Self Guided Visit to Imperial Vienna . . . . . . . Self Guided Visit to the Ringstrasse . . . . . . . Self Guided Visit to the Spittelberg Quarter . . .

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15 15 15 16 16

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10 September 10, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hip Vienna: Self Guided visit to the Naschmarkt and Museum Quarter . Self Guided Visit to the Karlskirche and Belvedere Palace . . . . . . . . . Self Guided Visit to the Wine Village of Grinzing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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17 17 18

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11 September 11, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 3

Visit to the Schönbrunn Palace and Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Visit to the Hundertwasserhaus and the Prater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Self-Arranged Taxi Transfer to Vienna’s Westbahnhof Station for Rail Departure Overnight Rail Journey from Vienna to Krakow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

12 September 12, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Arrival at Krakow Glowny Train Station and transfer to Hotel . Guided Walking Tour of Historic Krakow . . . . . . . . . . . . . Visit to Wawel Castle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Self Guided Tour of Krakow’s Old Town . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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21 21 22 22

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23 23 23 23 24

13 September 13, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Guided Bus Excursion to the Auschwitz Concentration Camp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Visit to the Schindler’s Factory Museum and the Former Jewish Ghetto . . . . . . . . . . . 25 14 September 14, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Guided Bus Excursion to the Salt Mines of Wieliczka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Self Guided Tour of Kazimierz - Krakow’s Jewish Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 15 September 15, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Self-Arranged Drop off at Airport by Taxi, Depart Krakow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

DAY 1 Arrive Munich

September 01, 2015 (Hotel T.B.D.)

Arrival in Munich Airport and Transfer to Hotel by Taxi To Be Determined For your arrival in Munich we will provide information on the customs and passport procedures. We will also provide advice on taking a taxi to your hotel, including an estimate of the cost and time of the ride to your hotel. We will also provide some very basic directions for taking rail service into central Munich to save on the taxi fare. Included: Arrival and transfer advice. Not Included: Taxi fare (about 65 EUR)

Self Guided Visit to Munich’s Altstadt Afternoon Munich boasts a large old town (Altstadt) with many beautiful historic buildings. Sometimes called the world’s largest village, it is a perfect place to wander. You will discover many Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings, as well as several stunning examples of modern architecture. Pleasant cafes, beer halls, cozy restaurants, and great shopping all add to the charming atmosphere. The heart of the Altstadt is the Marianplatz. This historic square is home to the New Town Hall and has been the center of Munich since the Middle Ages. The New Town Hall features a famous Glockenspiel clock tower, which at 11 A.M. and noon sends forth 32 life-sized ﬁgures to reenact Bavarian history. A golden bird chirps 3 times to mark the end of the display. Nearby is also the massive Frauenkirche Cathedral. This Gothic church can hold over 20,000 worshippers and a climb to its lofty bell tower affords a breathtaking view of the city and, in good weather, the nearby Alps. Munich is not a “full service” Go Real Europe destination. Itineraries only provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel directions in Munich.

The Hofbräuhaus, Munich’s Famed Beerhall Evening The Hofbräuhaus is Munich’s most famous beer hall, which in fact, makes it the world’s most famous beer hall. The Hofbräuhaus was founded as the Bavarian king’s royal brewery over 400 years ago. In the beer hall you and up to 1,300 other revelers will sit on long wooden benches, many of them over a hundred years old themselves. Musicians will play Bavarian polkas and the atmosphere is only made more festive by the waiters and waiters dressed in traditional garb, balancing 5

DAY 1 Arrive Munich

September 01, 2015 (Hotel T.B.D.)

trays filled with huge liter-sized beer steins. With all that beer, you will need something to fill your stomach as well, but luckily there is plenty of hearty and filling Bavarian cuisine to choose from as well. Munich is not a “full service” Go Real Europe destination. Itineraries only provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel directions in Munich.

DAY 2 Munich

September 02, 2015 (Hotel T.B.D.)

Visit to the Deutsches Museum Morning The Deutsches Museum (i.e., the German Museum) is the world’s largest museum of science and technology. It is located on a small island in the River Isar, which ﬂows through central Munich. The museum’s vast and fascinating collection is spread out among 40 different exhibitions. You will encounter examples of technology stretching across humanity’s long history, from a reproduction of pre-historic cave paintings, to the laboratory where the atom was split. Munich is not a “full service” Go Real Europe destination. Itineraries only provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel directions in Munich. Entry (8.50 EUR) is not included.

Tour of the Residence Palace Early Afternoon The Munich Residenz was the seat of government for Bavaria’s Dukes and Kings from 1508 to 1918. Originally a medieval castle, it was transformed over the centuries into a beautiful palace. Today it is open to the public and you can explore its magniﬁcent interiors, numerous courtyards, and elegant garden. The living quarters of the royal family have been transformed into a museum which provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Kings and Queens. In the treasury museum you can also see the many precious jewels and great works of art which Bavaria’s rulers collected. Munich is not a “full service” Go Real Europe destination. Itineraries only provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel directions in Munich. Entry into the palace is not included (7 EUR).

Stroll through the English Garden Late Afternoon The English Garden is one of Europe’s largest parks; in fact it is larger than New York’s Central Park. While it is called the “English Garden” after the style of the park, it was actually designed by an American, and is now a symbol of the very Bavarian city of Munich. The park is a perfect place to escape the city for a long stroll, where you can enjoy the natural scenery and the people watching. You can even enjoy a refreshing swim in the river Eisbach, which ﬂows through the middle of the park, or rent a paddle boat for a cruise on Lake Kleinhesseloher. When you are ready for some refreshment, you can ﬁnd several large beer gardens in the park, where you can mix with the locals and enjoy some of Munich’s famous brews. 7

DAY 2 Munich

September 02, 2015 (Hotel T.B.D.)

Munich is not a â&#x20AC;&#x153;full serviceâ&#x20AC;? Go Real Europe destination. Itineraries only provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel directions in Munich.

DAY 3 Munich

September 03, 2015 (Hotel T.B.D.)

Guided Full-Day Bus Excursion to the Neuschwanstein Castle Full Day Inspiration for the Disney Castles, numerous fairy tales, and countless dreamers, the Castle of Neuschwanstein is probably the most famous castle in the world. Perched on a peak in the foothills of the Alps, the setting provides the perfect backdrop to the spiraling towers and turrets of the castle. On this full day excursion, you will not only visit this amazing castle, but also another fantastic creation of its builder, King Ludwig II of Bavaria. In his Linderhof Palace you will discover an elegant palace surrounded by a beautiful park. You will learn about how the shy, reclusive, and eccentric (some even say mad) king built the castle and palace to escape society and pursue his favorite passions â&#x20AC;&#x201C; such as Wagnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s operas. Your trip will also include a stop to the charming Bavarian village of Oberammergau. Oberammergau is home to a famous Passion Play, staged only once each ten years, which draws visitors from around the world. THIS IS NOT A PRIVATE TOUR Included: Cost of the guided tour and bus transportation. Not Included: Entry into individual sites (23 EUR per person)

DAY 4 Munich to Salzburg

September 04, 2015 (Hotel T.B.D.)

Taxi Transfer to the Munich Main Rail Station 8:45 AM Munich taxis are generally reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. If you are picked up one hour prior to departure, you should have plenty of time to catch your train. Included: Instructions on taking a taxi to the rail station, instructions for ﬁnding your train. Not included: Taxi fare.

Rail Journey from Munich to Salzburg 09:34 – 11:02 by Rail Tickets and seat reservations will be included with the purchase of your itinerary for this approximately one and a half hour rail journey. Detailed directions and instructions that make the trip easy and stress free will also be provided in your full itinerary. Included: Tickets, seat reservations.

Arrival in Salzburg and Transfer to Hotel by Public Taxi 11:02 AM Upon arrival in Salzburg, you will exit the rail station and proceed to the taxi stand where you will ﬁnd taxis waiting for arriving passengers. Taxis in Salzburg are generally reliable and honest, and are less expensive than using a pre-arranged pick up service for your transfer to the Hotel. Detailed arrival information and instructions for taking a taxi are provided in the Full Length itinerary with purchase of an itinerary. Included: Arrival information and instructions. TAXI FARE IS NOT INCLUDED

Self Guided Visit to the Fortress Hohensalzburg Early Afternoon The Festung Hohensalzburg (roughly translated as the High Salzburg Fortress) dominates Salzburg, appearing simultaneously formidable and enticing. From one side of the fortress you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the city, and from the other a beautiful view of the nearby Alps. A fortress has been located at this location since Roman times, although the current fortress dates its history back to the 11th century A.D. In the Renaissance the fortress was enlarged and its exterior 10

DAY 4 Munich to Salzburg

September 04, 2015 (Hotel T.B.D.)

has remained mostly unchanged since then. The state rooms of the fortress are richly decorated with intricate Gothic wood-carvings and Renaissance ornamental paintings. In addition to touring the fortress state rooms, you can also visit the Fortress Museum, a Marionette Museum, the torture Chamber, an observation tower, and more. An audio tour is available which covers many of these sites. The fortress was never taken by force, even though it was not for a lack of trying. Luckily for you, today you can easily reach the fortress by a steep funicular railway that leaves from Salzburg’s Altstadt. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the sites and history of the fortress. Not Included: Cost of entry (8.00 EUR - 11.30 EUR)

Self Guided Visit to the Altstadt (Old Town) Late Afternoon Filled with narrow lanes, elegant squares, and an abundance of ornate baroque architecture, Salzburg is certainly one of Europe’s most beautiful towns. Although its growth was initially fueled by salt from nearby mines (Salzburg means salt mountain), the town is now associated with music, Catholic churches, and baroque architecture. For Americans, it was made famous by the movie Sound of Music, but most Austrians remain completely unaware of the movie. An independent bishopric until becoming part of Austria in 1816, Salzburg has always had a keen sense of local identity. Ironically however, its charm, hospitality, cultural heritage, and the beauty of its natural surroundings have made it into a symbol of Austria as a whole. The Altstadt is where Mozart was born and music continues to be closely associated with it. It possesses an amazing wealth of Baroque buildings due to the fact that during the 17th and 18th centuries its bishop rulers focused on beautifying and enriching their town, and attempted to stay out of the foreign conflicts that often surrounded them on all sides. A series of squares runs through the town, and you will find that all the squares are dominated by a beautiful church. Throughout the Altstadt you will find markets, pleasant shops, and cozy restaurants. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area.

DAY 5

September 05, 2015

Salzburg

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Sound of Music Guided Bus Excursion 9:00 - 1:00 PM In this approximately 4 hour tour by motor coach you will relive the most magical moments from the Sound of Music while taking in the breathtaking beauty of Salzburg’s surroundings, including the landscape which inspired Julie Andrews to burst into song at the beginning of the movie. As you enjoy the tour, you will relax and listen to the original Sound of Music soundtrack, perhaps even singing along a bit. On the tour you will see the places where the movie was ﬁlmed, and will also learn how these places tie into Salzburg’s history. Notable spots you will visit include the Mirabell Gardens, where Maria and the children sang “Do-Re-Mi”, the Leopoldskron Palace which served as the von Trapp family home, the pavillion where Maria and the Captain fell in love, Maria’s abbey, and the wedding church. You will also see the picturesque lake district. Included: Cost of the guided bus excursion. THIS IS NOT A PRIVATE TOUR

Self Guided Visit to the Neustadt and Mirabell Palace Gardens Afternoon TOP SITES: MIRABELL PALACE AND GARDENS, LINZERGASSE (STREET), ST. SEBASTIAN’S CEMETERY On the right bank of Salzach river lies the Neustadt, or New Town in English. Although it may be slightly newer than the Altstadt, it still boasts hundreds of years of history in it’s winding and narrow Medieval lanes. The Mirabell Palace, a Baroque masterpiece built in 1606 by the Prince Archbishop of Salzburg for his concubine, is the most famous site in the Neustadt. As impressive as the palace and its interior are, the elaborate gardens surrounding the palace are more famous than the palace itself. In the gardens you will ﬁnd statues of pegasus, unicorns, lions and other exotic animals, a dwarf garden, grand staircases, and other picturesque spots. Sound of Music fans may remember the garden from the movie, as this is where several parts of the “Do-Re-Me” song were ﬁlmed. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area.

DAY 6

September 06, 2015

Salzburg

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Self Guided Excursion to the Peak of the Untersberg Morning The nearly 6,000 foot high Untersberg is Salzburg’s nearest Alpine Mountain, and a visit to its peak is the perfect way to experience the Alps without traveling too far. Don’t worry, there’s no need to bring your climbing gear. You can take a bus from Salzburg to the base of the mountain, and then take an exhilarating cable lift ride all the way to the limestone summit. There you will ﬁnd a stupendous view of the Alps spread out before you, and if you feel like wandering a bit, a network of rocky trails spreads out from the summit. If you aren’t in the mood for a hike, you can just enjoy the view some more and have a meal or a drink in a mountain top restaurant. Included: Detailed travel directions and information for an easy and stress free trip. Not Included: Local bus fare (2.30 EUR), Lift tickets (21 EUR).

Visit to the Hellbrunn Palace and Gardens Afternoon Built as a summer palace by Salzburg’s Prince-Bishop, the Hellbrunn Palace is a picturesque palace surrounded by even more beautiful gardens. The early baroque palace was built exclusively for the purpose of entertainment, as the Prince-Bishop would actually return to Salzburg in the evening. It can be toured with an audio guide and includes several beautiful frescoed ceilings. There is a great deal to discover in the gardens - hidden grottos, clever statues, reﬂecting pools, as well ﬂora and fauna. What’s more, the gardens are also home to famous Wasserspiele, trick water fountains that never fail to delight, astonish, and befuddle. The fountains were actually built with the express purpose of playing practical jokes on guests, and they continue to provide plenty of amusement today. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Not Included: Entry to the gardens and palace (10.50 EUR)

Visit to the Mönchsberg and the Augustinian Beer Hall Evening Although tiny in comparison to the mountains of the nearby Alps, the Mönchsberg (Monk’s Mountain) dominates the Altstadt. While the highest portion of the mountain is occupied by the Fortress Hohensalzburg, the rest of the mountain is covered by idyllic forests and pastures, 13

DAY 6 Salzburg

September 06, 2015 (Hotel T.B.D.)

romantic homes, and castle ruins. A stroll through this enchanting landscape also affords numerous beautiful views of Salzburg’s Altstadt below. Perhaps best of all, it can all be enjoyed away from the crowds of the city. At the foot of the Mönchsberg, in the village-like neighborhood of Mülln, lies Austria’s largest beer hall. Since 1621 it has served the famously delicious brew of the Augustinian monks. Although it attracts many visitors, it remains a favorite among locals. Even if you don’t drink beer, it is still a great way to try some traditional Austrian cuisine and mingle with locals in a wonderfully authentic atmosphere. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Not Included: Beer or meal in the beer hall.

DAY 7

September 07, 2015

Salzburg

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Self Guided Excursion to the Königssee (King’s Lake) Morning The breath-takingly beautiful Königssee (King’s Lake) is the deepest lake in the Alps and is surrounded by steep mountains. Taking a cruise on the lake is an unforgettable experience. The boat will take you to the red-onion domed Kloster St. Bartolomä (Monastery of St. Bartholomew), where you then take a relaxing and enchanting walk along the forested lake shore, gazing up at the majestic mountains surrounding you. For serious hikers, you can also continue on the boat to the far end of the lake, and then take a hike to a dramatic waterfall. For those who don’t want to spend money on the cruise, you can simply take a short walk to an overlook offering a perfect view of the lake. If you want to spend more time in the area, you can also take a cable car up into the mountains and explore the rocky alpine peaks and enjoy amazing panoramic views. Included: Detailed travel directions to and from Königssee. Not Included: Cost of the bus ticket (approx 8 EUR), boat cruise (approx. 14 EUR - optional), or cable lift pass (approx. 16 EUR - optional).

Self Guided Excursion to Berchtesgaden Afternoon About 20 miles from Salzburg, just across the German border, lies Berchtesgaden. This charming Bavarian town is nestled amidst a dramatic Alpine valley, and is actually located within a national park. In additional to natural beauty, it is also blessed with 900 years of history, and its control of nearby salt mines allowed it to create a surprisingly rich architectural legacy. Berchtesgaden boasts charming market squares, imposing churches, and even a Medieval palace. There are also plenty of traditional Bavarian restaurants and shops selling local crafts and art, making Berchtesgaden a great destination for those wishing to combine the best of all worlds in a relaxed and bucolic setting. Included: Detailed directions to and from Berchtesgaden, and background information on the town.

DAY 8 Salzburg to Vienna

September 08, 2015 (Hotel T.B.D.)

Self-Arranged Taxi Transfer to Salzburg Main Train Station for Rail Departure 9:00 AM Your hotel front desk will also be happy to arrange a taxi pick up for you. Salzburg taxis are generally reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. Your itinerary will provide more information on ordering a taxi, as well as detailed information on navigating the train station and ﬁnding your train, making the whole process simple and stress free. Included: Instructions on taking a taxi to the rail station, instructions for ﬁnding your train. Not included: Taxi fare.

Rail Journey from Salzburg to Vienna on Westbahn Railways 09:52 – 12:22 by Rail Tickets and seat reservations for this scenic two and a half hour journey to Vienna are included with purchase of an itinerary. The journey is aboard a comfortable, modern train with wi-ﬁ. The verdant rolling countryside of northern Austria makes for a pleasant voyage, and on clear days, you can also enjoy a view on the Alps in the distance. You will also receive detailed instructions for the voyage, as well as a translation and explanation of your tickets. Included: Tickets, seat reservations (in an open seating system), and detailed travel information.

Arrival in Vienna’s Westbahnhof Station and Transfer to Hotel by Public Taxi 12:22 PM Upon arrival in Vienna, you will exit the rail station and proceed to the taxi stand where you will ﬁnd taxis waiting for arriving passengers. Taxis in Vienna are generally reliable and honest, and are less expensive than using a pre-arranged pick up service for your transfer to the Hotel. Detailed arrival information and instructions for taking a taxi are provided in the Full Length itinerary with purchase of an itinerary. Included: Arrival information and instructions. TAXI FARE IS NOT INCLUDED

DAY 8 Salzburg to Vienna

September 08, 2015 (Hotel T.B.D.)

Self Guided Visit to Vienna’s Inner City (Innere Stadt) Afternoon TOP SITES: ST. STEPHEN’S CATHEDRAL, THE GRABEN, MOZART HOUSE, CHURCH OF ST. PETER When the Viennese say they are going “into the city”, they are talking about the Inner City (Innere Stadt). The Inner City corresponds to Vienna’s original medieval city, which was once surrounded by defensive walls that stood where the Ringstrasse (Ring Street) now runs. A warren of medieval alleyways crowded into the protected space between the walls, creating a dense network of pedestrian streets that remains to this day. Now these narrow lanes hum with constant excitement as a tremendous assortment of restaurants, cafes, bars, and fashionable shops fill the ground floors of beautiful historic buildings. Among many other historic attractions, the Inner City is home to the magnificent Gothic Cathedral of St. Stephan (Stephansdom), which has become the most lasting and recognized symbol of the city. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Map marked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest in the area.

Evening Guided Walk through Vienna’s Inner City 5:00 - 6:30 PM This tour takes you back in history to explore the Vienna that stood within the old city walls. You will learn about the humble beginnings of Vienna before it became the capital of a great empire and one of the most important cities in Europe. You will discover how Vienna’s early inhabitants lived and how they left their mark on the city and its beautiful Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Your guide will discuss illustrious former residents such as Emperors and Empresses, but will also tell stories of ordinary Viennese who helped to create a great city of trade and commerce. You will also learn about the tragic end of Vienna’s Medieval Jewish community. At the end of your tour, your guide will give you his or her personal recommendations for restaurants in Vienna which capture its sense of history and charm. Included: 90-minute Private Guided Walking Tour.

DAY 9 Vienna

September 09, 2015 (Hotel T.B.D.)

Self Guided Visit to Imperial Vienna Morning TOP SITES: SPANISH RIDING SCHOOL, IMPERIAL TREASURY, ALBERTINA MUSEUM, BURGGARTEN, STATE OPERA HOUSE In this area of Vienna you will discover the very heart of the Habsburg Empire that once covered most of central Europe. Much of this district is consumed by the vast Hofburg Palace complex, once home to Austria’s emperors and their administrators. Majestically stunning, the buildings of the Hofburg still evoke awe in the observer even if the Empire they were built for is now long gone. Within the Hofburg you will ﬁnd many of the city’s top attractions, including the nearly 500 year old Spanish Riding School, which stages equestrian performances by the famous Lipizzaner Stallions. You can also visit the imperial apartments, gaze upon the imperial crown and other treasures, or browse through the imperial silver collection. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Map marked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest in the area. For those interested in the Spanish Riding School entry to Morning Exercises costs 14 EUR.

Self Guided Visit to the Ringstrasse Afternoon TOP SITES: RING STREET TRAMS, CITY HALL, NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, ART HISTORY MUSEUM The Ringstrasse, or the Ring Street, surrounds Vienna’s old town where the city walls once stood. The Austro-Hungarian Empire was at the height of its prosperity when the monumental buildings which line the Ringstrasse were built in the late 19th century. In this section of the Ringstrasse, you can see some of the most impressive of these buildings, including the neo-Gothic town hall, which is particularly magniﬁcent when lit up in the evening hours. The large park and square in front of the town hall also serves as one of the city’s favorite gathering places. A visit to the Kunsthistorisches (Art History) Museum or the Naturhistorisches Museum (Natural History) Museum, both of which are both located on the Ringstrasse, is particularly rewarding. Another fun experience is to take a tram ride around the entire length of the Ringstrasse. From the strassenbahn line you can relax and soak in the full richness of the spectacle. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Map marked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest in the area.

DAY 9 Vienna

September 09, 2015 (Hotel T.B.D.)

Self Guided Visit to the Spittelberg Quarter Evening One of most enjoyable places for an evening out in Vienna is the Spittleberg quarter. Its narrow lanes are ﬁlled with pleasant traditional restaurants. The Spittelberg Quarter’s history stretches back to the 1600’s, when the Austrian rulers imported artisans and servants from Hungary, Croatia, and other subject lands to help serve the Emperor’s court. Other immigrants were drawn to work in the nearby silk factories. They built charming burgher homes which still line the Spittelberggasse and nearby streets, lending a particular quaint atmosphere to the area. Several streets are fully pedestrianized, making it easy to stroll at leisure. Restaurants also take advantage of the absence of autos to set up tables directly in the street. Throughout the district you can also ﬁnd crafts shops and art galleries. Included: Restaurant recommendations, Travel information on the area

DAY 10

September 10, 2015

Vienna

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Hip Vienna: Self Guided visit to the Naschmarkt and Museum Quarter Morning TOP SITES: NASCHMARKT, LEOPOLD MUSEUM, THE MUSEUM QUARTER The Naschmarkt is a long narrow market which has occupied this area since the 1500’s. The market is over a kilometer long and is filled with a delightful variety of booths and small shops selling cheeses, meats, fresh fruits & vegetables, spices, and other exotic foods from around the world. You can also find souvenirs and other interesting tidbits. If you need a break from shopping, a number of nice sit-down cafes and restaurants are located within the market. On Saturdays the market is extended even further by a huge flea market. In the flea market you will find paintings, beer steins, heirlooms, and other great finds to make your friends back home jealous. Near the market you will find perhaps the most fun spot in all of Vienna - the Museumsquartier. Once home to the Imperial Stables, the Museumsquartier is now home to several museums. In typical Viennese fashion, the courtyard of the Museumsquartier has been transformed into an open air entertainment district. A delightful mix of unpretentious cafes and bars attracts visitors to the Museumsquartier long after the museums have all closed. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Map marked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest in the area.

Self Guided Visit to the Karlskirche and Belvedere Palace Afternoon TOP SITES: KARLSKIRCHE (CHARLES’ CHURCH), BELVEDERE PALACES AND GARDEN Southeast of the Ringstrasse you will ﬁnd two of Vienna’s greatest treasures - the Belvedere Palace and the Karlskirche (St. Charles’s Church). More than just a Viennese treasure, the Belvedere and Karlskirche are actually two of the Europe’s most signiﬁcant examples of Baroque architecture. The Belvedere is actually two palaces connected by a formal 3-level garden designed in the French style. A visit to the garden offers many delights to the senses with its playful fountains, multi-tiered design, and setting amidst the two elaborate palaces. The palaces now house works of art, including a permanent exhibition which includes the most famous works of Gustav Klimt, such as “The Kiss”. 20

DAY 10

September 10, 2015

Vienna

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Many consider the Karlskirche second only to St. Peter’s Basilica among baroque churches. What makes a visit to the Karlskirche especially notable is that you can ride an elevator up into the cupola of the church and then climb stairs up to the very top of the church, where you can examine the dome’s magniﬁcent frescoes up close. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area. Not Included: Entry fee to visit the palace (approx. 11 EUR) or church (8 EUR) interiors.

Self Guided Visit to the Wine Village of Grinzing Evening Nothing better symbolizes the Viennese love of “gemütlichkeit” (roughly translated as coziness) than the wine villages and vinyards which hug the gentle slopes beneath the Vienna woods. They are home to wine taverns known as Heurigen. The Viennese come to the Heurigen to while away warm evenings drinking wine, listen to musicians play traditional Viennese tunes (Wienerlieder), and enjoy each other’s conversation and company. The most famous of the wine villages is Grinzing, which is easily reached from the city center by tram. Despite its closeness to the city center, a visit to Grinzing seems to transport you to the countryside, as quaint cottages and cozy old farmhouses create a charming village atmosphere. Included: Directions to Grinzing (including tram tickets), Tips on ordering wine and food. Not Included: The cost of meals and drinks.

DAY 11

September 11, 2015

Vienna

Visit to the Schönbrunn Palace and Park Morning / Early Afternoon The magnificent Baroque palace of Schönbrunn is most famously associated with the Empress Maria Theresa, who lived here surrounded by her administrators, retainers, and 16 little archdukes and duchesses who also happened to be her children. On your tour of the palace, you will see numerous reminders of Maria Theresa, as well as many of its other past imperial residents. The grounds surrounding the palace form a beautiful park with a mix of formal gardens and woodlands. Throughout the park you will find enchanting fountains and statues. On a rise opposite the palace sits the Gloriette pavilion. From there you can take in a wonderful view - the meticulously groomed green park draws your eye to the graceful yellow Schönbrunn Palace, and then to the red roofs of the city stretched out beyond. If you have kids, you will definitely want to visit the labyrinth and its adjoining playground, although even without kids it can be great fun. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Not Included: Cost of entry into the palace interior (about $15 USD) or labyrinth (about $6 USD). Entry to the park is free.

Visit to the Hundertwasserhaus and the Prater Late Afternoon TOP SITES: Hundertwasserhaus, Wiener Riesenrad (Ferris Wheel), Schweizerhaus The charming and unusual Hundertwasserhaus is one of Austria’s architectural highlights. This extraordinary building was constructed between 1983 and 1985 as an imaginative apartment house and features a roof covered with soil and grass, trees growing from inside the rooms and a colorfully decorated exterior facade. Nearby is the Prater, a large and pleasant public park. There you can ﬁnd a towering ferris wheel called the Wiener Riesenrad, one of Vienna’s symbols and most popular tourist attractions since its construction in 1897. A ﬁfteen minute ride is like a trip back in time with breathtaking views over the roofs of the city. The Riesenrad is a part of a famous amusement park, which houses also carousels, swings, roller coasters, ghost trains and a number of coffee houses and restaurants, such as the Schweizerhaus. This traditional restaurant has arguably the most beautiful beer garden in the city. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Not Included: Cost of a ride on the Wiener Riesenrad (8 EUR), cost of a ride on the Liliputbahn (2.20 EUR), cost of meals and drinks at the Schweizerhaus.

DAY 11

September 11, 2015

Vienna

Self-Arranged Taxi Transfer to Vienna’s Westbahnhof Station for Rail Departure 9:15 PM Your hotel front desk will also be happy to arrange a taxi pick up for you. Vienna taxis are generally reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. Your itinerary will provide more information on ordering a taxi, as well as detailed information on navigating the train station and ﬁnding your train, making the whole process simple and stress free. Included: Instructions on taking a taxi to the rail station, instructions for ﬁnding your train. Not included: Taxi fare.

Overnight Rail Journey from Vienna to Krakow 22:12 – 06:54 by Rail Tickets and sleeper reservations will be included with the purchase of your itinerary for this overnight rail journey. Detailed directions and instructions that make the trip easy and stress free will also be provided in your full itinerary. Included: Tickets, Sleeping Car Reservations, Detailed Instructions.

DAY 12

September 12, 2015

Krakow

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Arrival at Krakow Glowny Train Station and transfer to Hotel 6:54 AM Upon your arrival in Krakow your driver will meet you on the platform. He will be carrying a sign with your name on it. The driver will drop you off at your hotel. This is a private transfer. The price of the pickup is already included in your itinerary cost so you will not have to pay the driver. Included: Cost of the private transfer to your hotel, Arrival information.

Guided Walking Tour of Historic Krakow 9:00 - 12:00 PM On this 3 hour guided walking tour, you will discover the history and legends of old Krakow and gain an excellent overview of the city. The many layers of the city will be revealed to you as your guide points out medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, and also shows you some of the city’s most well-known as well as most-overlooked churches and squares. You will learn about not only Krakow’s glory days many centuries past, but also about its more recent struggles during Nazism and Communism oppression, and how they left a mark on the city and its inhabitants. Included: Cost of the Private Guided Walking Tour.

Visit to Wawel Castle Early Afternoon Krakow’s dramatic castle is situated on top of Wawel Hill, a limestone hill rising above the Vistula River and the city. During the earliest days of Polish history a castle was built here and throughout the Medieval and Renaissance era it was an important residence of Poland’s rulers and a center of Christian inﬂuence. In addition to residing in the castle there, Polish kings were also coronated and then buried in the castle’s beautiful cathedral. Much of the carefully restored Royal palace is now open for tours, and you will also ﬁnd several important historical, archeological, and artistic collections within the castle. As the Medieval capital of Poland and the resting place of so many of its past rulers, Wawel Castle represents for many the very heart of the Polish nation. Krakow is not a “full service” Go Real Europe destination. Itineraries only provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel directions in Krakow. Entry costs into the interiors of sites is not included. 24

DAY 12

September 12, 2015

Krakow

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Self Guided Tour of Krakow’s Old Town Late Afternoon Krakow’s Old Town is the part of the city once contained within the historic Medieval walls. While the walls are now mostly gone, you will still discover a rich heritage of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. The Market Square is one of the largest and most breathtaking town squares in all of Europe, and is lined by colorful Gothic buildings with Baroque facades. The two most famous attractions on the Market Square are St. Mary’s Basilica and the Cloth Hall. The magniﬁcent 600 year old basilica was built from a combination of red brick and stone, creating a striking appearance both in its exterior and interior. The Cloth Hall sits in the very center of the square, and today merchants sell hand made goods and souvenirs there. Krakow is not a “full service” Go Real Europe destination. Itineraries only provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel directions in Krakow.

DAY 13

September 13, 2015

Krakow

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Guided Bus Excursion to the Auschwitz Concentration Camp 8:30 - 2:00 PM There is no shortage of cruelty and evil to be found in human history, but the Holocaust stands out as perhaps the greatest of these evils, in both scale and conception. The Holocaust’s most signiﬁcant historical sites, the concentration camp of Auschwitz and its auxiliary camp of Birkenau, are located a little over an hour from Krakow. Auschwitz was designated by Heinrich Himmler as the place for the “ﬁnal solution to the Jewish question in Europe” and over 1 million Jews were murdered in Birkenau’s extermination factories. Many thousands of Poles, gypsies, and other groups persecuted by the Nazis were also murdered or worked to death in the camps. Your tour will take you beneath the wrought iron gates, with their ironic admonition that “Arbeit macht frei” (work makes you free), and into the vast guarded complexes where so much suffering occurred. It is a sobering and troubling visit, but at the same time it is a fascinating journey and a necessary reminder to all of us of the evil that mankind is still capable of exercising. THIS IS NOT A PRIVATE TOUR Included: Guided bus excursion, Standard visit to the Concentation Camps Auschwitz and Birkenau, Documentary movie about Auschwitz, Services of the Museum Guide, and Headphones.

Visit to the Schindler’s Factory Museum and the Former Jewish Ghetto Afternoon During World War II Oscar Schindler saved the lives of more than 1,100 Jews by employing them in his enamelware factory in Krakow. Until recently still used as a factory, the building now houses one of Europe’s most impressive new museums. It tells not only the story of Schindler and the Jews he protected, but of the wider experience of Krakow during World War II. You will experience the history from the perspective of the persecuted Jewish community in Krakow, as well as from the experience of other residents of Krakow, who also experienced terror and oppression during the war. You will even see some events from the perspective of the German occupiers. Using a combination of images, videos, music and street sounds, interviews, and artifacts, the experience of visiting the museum is both chilling and enlightening. It is a must for those interested in World War II history. Nearby, you can walk the streets of the former Jewish Ghetto, and also see how locals live today in the neighborhood of Podgórze. Just above the neighborhood, the pleasant forested park of Bednarskiego provides a respite from the city, and for those with extra energy, a walk up to the Krakus 26

DAY 13

September 13, 2015

Krakow

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Mound provides an excellent view of the city. Krakow is not a â&#x20AC;&#x153;full serviceâ&#x20AC;? Go Real Europe destination. Itineraries only provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel directions in Krakow. Entry to the museum is not included.

DAY 14

September 14, 2015

Krakow

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Guided Bus Excursion to the Salt Mines of Wieliczka 8:30 - 12:00 PM Wieliczka has been the site of Salt Mines since the Middle Ages. Over the centuries, miners created a subterranean world so fascinating that the mines are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will explore mine shafts, cavernous chambers, and underground saline lakes, all spread out over nine different levels reaching of depth of over 1000 feet. You will see the beautiful carving and statues the miners hewn into the salt rock, even visiting one cavern where a chapel was formed out of the rocky walls. You will also learn how mining technology has developed over time. This tour is not recommended for those who are claustrophobic or have diﬃcult walking. THIS IS NOT A PRIVATE TOUR Included: Guided bus excursion, Standard visit to the Mines, Elevator passage out of the Mines, and Headphones. Not included: Elevator passage into the mines.

Self Guided Tour of Kazimierz - Krakow’s Jewish Quarter Afternoon Krakow was once home to one of Europe’s largest and most inﬂuential Jewish communities - numbering over 60,000 residents at its height. While most of its residents were tragically killed in the Holocaust, they left behind a rich historical legacy, including numerous beautiful synagogues now open for visitors. The greatest concentration of Jewish heritage in Krakow is in the district known as Kazimierz. Originally founded as a separate town from Krakow, Kazimierz grew to become Krakow’s Jewish Quarter, although Christians have also always lived there as well. While most residents today are no longer Jewish, the remaining structures left behind by the Jewish community still indelibly mark the district as Krakow’s Jewish Quarter. Today, the quaint architecture and narrow streets of the district make it a popular locale for social life, and it offers an abundance of cafes, restaurants, and shops. You can also visit the Galacia Jewish museum, which attempts to recreate the distinct Jewish culture that left such a deep mark on southern Poland. If your itinerary does not include it separately, you may also want to ﬁt in a visit to the outstanding Schindler Factory Museum across the river. Krakow is not a “full service” Go Real Europe destination. Itineraries only provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel directions in Krakow.

DAY 15

September 15, 2015

Depart Krakow

Self-Arranged Drop off at Airport by Taxi, Depart Krakow To Be Determined Your hotel will be happy to arrange a taxi pick up for you and can give you an estimate of the price. If you are picked up two hours and 45 minutes prior to departure, you should have plenty of time to catch your ďŹ&#x201A;ight. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra ten to ďŹ fteen minutes. The Included: Recommended Taxi Company, Information on taking a taxi or train to the airport. Not Included: Cost of the taxi or train fare.