Prague Extension

Prague tour extension

Extend your holiday in picture-perfect Prague, undoubtedly one of the world’s most enchanting and beautiful capitals, spanning the lovely Vltava river that idles its way through this charismatic European gem. Spend three days exploring ‘The Magical City’, painstakingly restored and bursting at its seams with magnificent palaces, cathedrals, exquisite churches and elegant bridges.

Your itinerary

DAY 8/DAY 1 EXTENSION – Brno & Prague

We leave the ship and the magnificent Budapest skyline behind as we head north-west on a scenic drive along the Danube basin, towards the Slovakian border. Enjoy the stunning countryside views – vast swathes of thick forests, interspersed with verdant pastureland strewn with wildflowers and a scattering of vineyards, the occasional sleepy hamlet and isolated farm dotted here and there.

Heading north we cross the border into the Czech Republic and the eastern region of Moravia, one of three historic lands together with Bohemia and Czech Silesia that formed this picturesque European nation. An imperial state of the Holy Roman Empire and then forming part of Austria-Hungary, the land takes its name from the Morava river which runs north to south. The rolling landscape is gently undulating, lush and green, as we enjoy a drive through the region known as Czech Tuscany, before arriving in historic Brno, once the region’s capital, and enjoy some time at leisure to explore this attractive city. Perhaps visit the impressive Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul set high on a hill in the centre with its lofty Gothic spires. Admire its beautiful baroque altars and 14th-century statue of the Madonna and Child, and you’ll enjoy amazing views from its steeple. Or head to the medieval Špilberk Castle, its bright red roofs and freshly painted stonework, belie its sinister history. Dating from the first half of the 13th century it became a major royal castle but its impregnable walls ensured its gradual metamorphosis into a huge baroque citadel, at one time considered the harshest prison in the Austrian Empire, and later it was used by occupying Nazis to hold political prisoners during World War II. Visit the Old Town Hall, now the tourist information centre; dating from 1240, it’s the oldest secular building in Brno,

3 DAYS FROM £499

April to October 2022 & April to October 2023

with elegant twin spires and a fine baroque façade. Admire its delicate sculptures and impressive Gothic portal, then perhaps climb the sixty-three metre tower for wonderful views over the square to the cathedral and castle beyond. There’s time to seek out a local restaurant for a spot of lunch before we continue our drive north, arriving in Prague and our hotel, early evening. Enjoy free time to settle in and dine at leisure. (B)

DAY 9/DAY 2 EXTENSION – Prague

As you wake this morning in the ‘city of a hundred spires’, set yourself up for the day with some delicious options from the hotel’s breakfast buffet, before it’s time to set off on our guided tour. Prague’s unique atmosphere is a consequence of its remarkable history and there really are few more enchanting European cities to spend a couple of days absorbing the sights and sounds of a bygone age. Centuries of royal patronage have created this masterpiece - in particular Prague’s wonderful medieval old town with its winding cobbled alleys, fine stone buildings and elegant squares, and there’s a captivating view around every corner. Our expert local guide will provide an in-depth guided tour, with a fascinating insight into the city’s past and present, as well as revealing its abundance of architectural splendours. Hear the echoes of history as you stroll over the classic Charles Bridge, soaking up the exquisite view, with its fascinating turrets and perfectly-preserved 14thcentury stone arches, and gaze in wonder at the lofty spires of the Gothic Tyn Church and the immense Powder Tower – one of thirteen of the city’s original gates. After free time over lunch, this afternoon we enjoy a guided tour to Hradčany, Prague’s spectacular Castle and Cathedral complex and the centre of political power for a thousand years. Perched on a cliff towering over the city, Prague Castle, dating from 880, is said to be the largest ancient castle in the world – a staggering 70,000 square metres in fact! Our guide will relay tales of the great history of royal rulers, medieval warfare and the differing religions and politics that have been responsible for such an intriguing mix of palaces, churches and fortifications contained within this UNESCO-listed site. These include such remarkable buildings as the 16th-century Spanish Hall, with its amazing art, including works by Brueghel, Durer, Holbein, Da Vinci and Titian and Golden Lane, a delightful row of quaint timber-framed cottages, once inhabited by goldsmiths during the 17th century. Admire the striking façade of St George’s Basilica and the majestic spires of the cathedral with its brilliant stained glass. The view from here is simply breathtaking – a panorama of soaring spires and historic rooftops, laid out before you in a dazzling array. This evening is at leisure. (B)

DAY 10/DAY 3 EXTENSION – Prague & Lodi Brewery

There’s the opportunity for a relaxed breakfast this morning with free time for you to return to the old town and explore under your own steam; perhaps amble back to your favourite spot from the tours or take a scenic cruise along the Vltava river to take in the cityscape from a very different perspective. Linger a while on the Charles Bridge and admire skilful pavement artists at work, capturing a scene unchanged for centuries. Perhaps you’ll head for the authentic ambience of the old Jewish Quarter, or bustling Wenceslas Square and the 11th-century Staromestske Namesti – without doubt one of the world’s most beautiful squares, trimmed with fine public buildings and the legendary 15th-century astronomical clock taking centre-stage. Perhaps after lunch and a spot of people watching, browse the characterful shops for some last-minute souvenirs.

Later there’s the opportunity to visit the local Lodi Brewery – the only boat

Our hand-picked hotels

Hermitage Hotel – Prague

This excellent hotel is centrally located close to the Vltava river, with easy access to the historic centre. A former printing house, this elegant early 20th-century building is furnished in a contemporary style with smart lobby, bar and restaurant, serving local and world cuisine, plus there is a rooftop fitness room. The air-conditioned rooms are attractively decorated, light and spacious with minibar, tea & coffeemaking facilities and Wi-Fi. brewery in Europe! Czech beer is famed the world over but there are plenty of local brewers in the capital too. Moored in the heart of the city, enjoy learning more about how this historic beverage is produced as we tour the on-board brewery , enjoying a tasting directly from the tanks and sampling some of their different beers. Enjoy some delicious local Czech fare and you’ll receive a souvenir from your visit to take home too. Your evening is at leisure, so perhaps you’ll opt to dine in the hotel’s restaurant or stay in the old town to savour the magical ambience of this exquisite city for the final time. (B)

DAY 11/DAY 4 EXTENSION – Return home

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. (B)

Tyn Church - Day 9

Your cruise price includes

• 3 nights in an excellent, centrally located hotel with breakfast • Experience magical Prague, the captivating Czech capital and ‘city of a hundred spires’ with an expert-led guided tour • Explore the magnificent

Castle District, with an insightful local guide plus included entrance to the

Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world • Fascinating visit to the only boat brewery in Europe with a guided tour and tasting

(B) Breakfast

Prices are per person. Departure dates, prices and ship information –visit our website