Prague

Upon arrival, transfer to our hotel, centrally located within walking distance of Old Town Square. This evening, meet fellow travelers during a welcome reception and dinner in our hotel.

Begin today at Strahov Monastery, a Premonstratensian abbey founded in 1143. Spend time in the library, filled with rare books dating from the 16th century and adorned with stunning frescoes, and enjoy a private classical concert. Stop for lunch on our way to the Pilsner Urquell Brewery, where we learn about the brewing process and explore brew houses from three different centuries.

Spend a special morning at the historic Lobkowicz Palace, which we have all to ourselves.  The only privately-owned building within the Prague Castle complex, the palace served as the seat of the Bohemian kings and Holy Roman emperors. After lunch, we visit Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the Basilica of St George and take a stroll along Golden Lane. This row of tiny colorful cottages was built at the end of the 15th century to house castle marksmen and goldsmiths and later attracted artists and writers such as Franz Kafka. Enjoy dinner together at a local restaurant.

Today, venture outside Prague to Mladá Boleslav, where cars have been manufactured for over 120 years. We gain an in-depth perspective of past and present car manufacturing during a special visit to the Škoda Factory and Škoda Museum with its rare, vintage cars. Enjoy lunch in Mladá Boleslav before returning to Prague for an afternoon at leisure. Gather for an early dinner followed by a concert.

At the Václav Havel Library, enjoy a special lecture on President Havel, who served as a playwright, fighter against totalitarianism, leader of the 1989 Velvet Revolution, Czechoslovak and Czech president, and symbol of vigilance against despotism. After lunch, discover the city’s rich Jewish Heritage during a visit to the largest collection of Judaica in Europe, including the Old Jewish Cemetery, the Old New Synagogue, and a number of other important synagogues, each with its own unique collection. Finally, partake in Prague’s favorite activity—walking the 14th-century Charles Bridge. Dinner is on our own this evening.

Travel west toward the border to the charming spa town of Karlovy Vary, known as Carlsbad in Germany. Explore the spa buildings and the grounds, which include geysers as well as thermal springs. After lunch, witness local glass makers crafting incredible pieces of art at Moser Glassworks. Tour the museum established by Ludwig Moser in 1857 and try your hand at engraving a glass souvenir to bring home.

Journey out of the city to Nelahozeves, birthplace of Czechia’s greatest composer, Antonín Dvořák. Visit the house where he spent his childhood and discover the environment that influenced and inspired him to become a musical genius. Continue to Nelahozeves Castle to marvel at the incredible Renaissance architecture and visit the permanent exhibition showcasing the daily life of an influential 19th-century noble family who once inhabited this castle. Conclude our tour in the Knight’s Hall where a local sommelier guides us through a wine tasting paired with cheese and charcuterie. Return to Prague for an afternoon at leisure. Later this evening, toast our journey over dinner at a local restaurant.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for flights returning home.