Compare Prague to Paris & Legends of Moselle, Rhine and Main by Emerald Waterways vs Barcelona to Venice by Intrepid Travel

Day 1: Arrive Prague

Welcome to Prague, one of Europe’s magical cities. Situated on the banks of the River Vltava in central Bohemia, this beautiful city is rich in history and is home to some of the world’s most pristine collections of architecture. You will be met at Prague International Airport and transferred* to your centrally located hotel. This evening meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a welcome drink.

Day 2: Prague Sightseeing

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

This morning we explore the sights of the Old Town Square on a guided walking tour. We see Mozart´s Theatre, Little Square and Astronomical Clock. After lunch we continue our tour and walk across the Charles Bridge spanning the River Vltava, to board our coach to drive to the 1,000-year-old Prague Castle area. With our local guide we walk through Hradcany Square, and see the magnificent Loreta Monastery, and arrive at Hradcany Castle. Here we see Old Kings Palace, St. George´s Monastery, The National Gallery painting exhibition and Golden Lane. This evening we experience a night of dancing and entertainment at a Czech Highlight Dinner in a local tavern.

Day 3: Prague Day at Leisure

Meals: Breakfast

Your Tour Director is on hand to help plan your day’s exploring. The baroque quarter of Mala Strana is a must see, as is Josefov, the Jewish quarter. You will no doubt return to the lively atmosphere around the Charles Bridge for another look.

OPTIONAL TOUR Blatná Castle (additional expense)

Day 4: Prague - Nuremberg Embarkation

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

This morning travel by coach from Prague to Nuremberg. A warm welcome awaits you from your Captain and crew as you board your award-winning Emerald Waterways river cruise ship.

Day 5: Bamberg

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

This morning we arrive at Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage city. Boasting one of Europe’s largest intact medieval town centres, Bamberg is bursting with original character and charm. At the centre of the town is the largest preserved old quarter in Europe. Around 2,400 listed buildings and the centuries–old garden quarter form a special cultural heritage.

Day 6: Wurzburg

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Known as the “Pearl of the Romantic Road”, Würzburg is surrounded by sloping hills covered with vineyards. Join our guide for a walking tour of Würzburg followed by a visit to the Bishops’ Residenz, one of Germany’s largest and most ornate baroque palaces and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 7: Wertheim – Miltenberg

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Welcome to Miltenberg, a picturesque village on the Main River, which creates an imitable feeling of Bavarian life in medieval times due to the Old Town being lined with well-preserved half-timbered buildings. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the village and pass by the gothic Merchant Hall, an impressive symbol of past affluence created by trade from river traffic. This afternoon cruise to Koblenz.

Day 8: Koblenz

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today’s cruising will be a highlight of your trip, as we cruise through the spectacular Rhine Gorge. We’ll pass the infamous Lorelei Rock where sailors are said to have been lured onto treacherous rocks by enchanted temptresses. This afternoon enjoy a walking tour of the 2,000 year old town of Koblenz before free time to wander through the town and take in the views from the cable car.

Day 9: Bernkastel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Dating back to 3000BC, Bernkastel is situated along the banks of the Moselle River and home to well-preserved buildings dating back to 1416. Stroll through the medieval marketplace with its gabled timber-framed houses, castle ruins and town gate on your guided walking tour. Historically a winegrowing town, vines cover the steep-slopes surrounding the village.

Day 10: Trier

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Explore the ruins of the old city baths, once a hive of activity during ancient times and the Porta Nigra, the best preserved Roman city gate north of the Alps on your guided walking tour of Trier.

Day 11: Disembarkation Amsterdam

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast we journey by coach from Trier to Metz then train to Paris. This evening meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a welcome drink.

Day 12: Paris

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

A sightseeing tour with a local guide takes you to see Notre Dame Cathedral famous for the tale of Quasimodo, the hunchback of Notre Dame. See the Obelisk in the centre of the Place de la Concorde and drive along the elegant Champs Élysees to the Arc de Triomphe. Enjoy a sightseeing cruise on the River Seine finishing at the Eiffel Tower. This tour will give you an excellent overview of the city. Our day is completed with a Parisian dinner.

Day 13: Paris

Sightseeing is an endless pleasure in Paris, and your Tour Director is on hand to help you plan your day to explore the romance capital of the world. View the Mona Lisa at The Louvre or stroll the Champs Elysees.

OPTIONAL TOUR Excursion to Vaux-le-Vicomte Chateau and Garden (additional expense)

Day 14: Depart Paris

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast you will be transferred* to Charles de Gaulle International Airport for your onward or home bound flight.

*Check transfer entitlements with your travel agent. For guests who have already received documentation - refer to your booking summary

Day 1 Barcelona

Hola! Welcome to Barcelona, Spain. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting around 6 pm followed by a vermouth aperitivo to whet your appetite for the adventure ahead. If you arrive early, why not use this time to get your bearings. There are plenty of galleries, cafes and historic corners to keep you busy. Perhaps take the funicular to the top of Montjuic or Tibidabo for panoramic views of the harbour. After the welcome meeting, maybe head out for some tapas with your fellow travellers so you can get to know them – your group leader will have all the best recommendations on where to go.

Day 2 Barcelona / Girona

Say good morning to Barcelona before heading out with your group on a leader-led orientation walk of the city, sampling a favourite local treat along the way. Then exploring the city at your own pace, why not visit Gaudi's La Sagrada Familia Basilica – possibly the most iconic landmark in Barcelona. Or, head to Park Guell – the largest green space in the city, where you can stroll through the gardens and explore more of the incredible architectural work by Gaudi. This afternoon you’ll make your way to the train station, where you’ll head off to the city of Girona. Arriving in the early evening, your leader will take you on a walk through the city. Then, you have the chance to explore at your leisure. This jewel of Catalonia is known for its medieval architecture, sitting alongside the Onyar River. Make sure you get the best local dinner recommendations from your leader tonight!

Day 3 Girona

Head off with your group this morning for a walk along the medieval walls of the city. Originally built by the Romans, and then rebuilt and extended in the Middle Ages, these walls have stood watch over the city since the 14th century. From the walkway along the top, the city of Gerona spreads out beneath you, giving you a birds-eye view over the streets and houses, the river and the iconic cathedral and bell tower of San Felix. This afternoon is yours to explore the city. Why not take a visit to the Arabic Baths or stop at the Rocambolesc Gelateria where you can grab a cup or cone of some of Spain’s finest gelato. Fancy yourself a bit of a TV buff? Several scenes of HBO’s Game of Thrones were filmed in the city! Chat to your leader about joining a Game of Thrones walking tour and find yourself transported to the streets of Braavos and King’s Landing.

Day 4 Nimes / Avignon

Leaving the city after breakfast, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Nimes. Arriving in the town of southeastern France, your leader will take you on a walk through the town, giving you the lay of the land before your free time to explore at your own pace. Why not chat to your leader about visiting the famous Amphitheatre of Nimes – one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in Europe, built around the year AD 100. This evening, take the train to Avignon. When you arrive, check in to your hotel and take a walk around a walled city that was once home to French popes for more than a century.

Day 5 Avignon

Waking up in Avignon, your leader will take you for an orientation walk, through the markets where you’ll find fresh produce that’s locally grown in the fertile soil surrounding the city. After, explore the local sites at your own pace. Maybe comb the city's impressive collection of art, visit the grand Palais des Papes (Pope's Palace) or cross the iconic bridge of Pont St-Benezet. You could even hire a bike to see more of this picturesque valley and head to one of the city's amazing bakeries. There are also many small local bistros that serve up great regional cuisine – why not get some of your travel pals together for a French-inspired feast.

Day 6 Beaune

This morning, you’ll be heading by train to the city of Beaune. In the heart of France’s Burgundy wine region, this little town packs a punch. Following a leader led walk through the town, this afternoon you can explore the town's rich history of food and wine production. Ask your leader about visiting the Caves Patriarche – the largest cellars in the Bourgogne wine region, located in the 17th century former convent of Les Vistandines. Here, you’ll find several million bottles of wine, some of which are from the most prestigious winemaking names in the region. Continuing your exploration of the town, see if you can find a fresh bread vending machine, or visit the incredible Hospices de Beaune. Founded in 1443 and originally a hospital that offered care to the less fortunate, it is now a museum and the host of an annual charity wine auction.

Day 7 Paris

Leaving Beaune, travel by train to the city of light and love – Paris, of course! Rich in museums, art galleries, monuments, fashion and delicious food, Paris offers a wealth of major sights and things to do. When you arrive, check into the hotel and then join your leader for an orientation walk through the famous city streets before exploring at your leisure. Wandering around the Champs-Elysees, the student-filled Latin Quarter, or bohemian Montmartre will give you a good feel for the city. There is so much to do in Paris that it might be a good idea to make a plan before you arrive, so you can get to see all you want! Don’t know where to start? Check in with your leader for tons of advice and tips on how to make the most of your time in this incredible city.

Day 8 Paris

Enjoy another free day to explore Paris. If you didn’t get the chance already, why not spend today checking out the world-famous Louvre, where you can see the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Maybe climb the Eiffel Tower – or take the lift – for some impressive aerial views of Paris. For a simple picnic lunch of baguette and cheese, The Tuileries, Plantes and Jardin du Luxembourg all make excellent backdrops. Later, you’ll have a second meeting with the new members of your group at 6 pm. After you meet your fellow travellers and trip leader, you might choose to head out for an optional dinner at one of the gorgeous local restaurants or explore the surrounding neighbourhoods and further discover why this city is known for its romantic appeal.

Day 9 Brussels

Leave Paris behind and jump on a train to Brussels, where your leader will take you on a walk around the city, and you can enjoy some traditional Belgian fries. After, explore at your own pace. Maybe wander down to the Manneken Pis (Little Peeing Man) – an iconic symbol of Belgium. If you’re interested in music, a must-see place is The Musical Instrument Museum. Three floors of musical instruments coming from every corner of the world and hundreds of years of musical history in one place. If you feel like a night out, Ilot Sacre is a great place to find good food and fun bars. Perhaps visit the iconic Atomium – a silver structure built in 1958 for the Brussels World’s Fair. As always, you can chat to your leader for advice – it’s why they’re here!

Day 10 Bruges

This morning, enjoy some free time in Brussels, before making your way to the train station in the early afternoon to head to your next destination – Bruges. Arriving mid-afternoon, your leader will take you around the city to give you the lay of the land before you explore at your own speed. Wander along the picturesque river this evening, watching the city illuminate around you in the setting sun. Your leader will be able to give you the best recommendations for dinner spots tonight, or maybe even where you can find the best beer in town.

Day 11 Bruges

Today you have a free day to explore Bruges. This town on the coast of Belgium looks like it's been plucked straight from the pages of a fairytale, and there’s so much to see and explore. Why not take a stroll through the UNESCO Protected Old Town, starting in the iconic Burg square. Right in the centre of town, this square is home to a mix of Gothic, Renaissance and neoclassicism architecture, and features the town hall, which was built in the 14th century. Don’t forget to check out the Basilica of the Holy Blood, which is said to be home to a vial of cloth stained with a drop of the blood of Jesus. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, hunt down the best bowl of moules-frites – a Flemish classic of mussels cooked in white wine and served with a side of crunchy fries.

Day 12 Antwerp - Amsterdam

Bid Bruges a fond farewell as you hop on the train and head to Antwerp. Your leader will take you around the city to help you get your bearings before you have the chance to explore on your own. Why not visit the Het Steen Castle – a medieval fortress in the Old City centre. Built in the early 1200s and with towering walls and turrets, it’s not hard to imagine knights on horseback and princesses wandering through the castle grounds. Then, jump back on the train and cross another border into the capital of the Netherlands – Amsterdam! Arriving in the evening, why not find somewhere for dinner and plan your time in the city. The best way to get your head around Amsterdam is to do as locals do and cycle. Amsterdam is a network of canals, bridges and parks perfect for exploring on a bike. If you’re an art-lover, Amsterdam is home to plenty of museums. One of its best is the Rijksmuseum, which houses one of Rembrandt’s most famous works – 'The Night Watch'. Alternatively, the Van Gogh Museum, which comprises nearly every painting, sketch, print, etching and piece of correspondence that Van Gogh ever produced, including 'Sunflowers'.

Day 13 Amsterdam

This morning, your leader will show you around Amsterdam before your free day to explore. You could visit Anne Frank's House – the former hiding place of the famous child diarist and her family during WWII, which has now been preserved as a museum. Or, perhaps visit the De Waag – a 15th-century building on Nieuwmarkt Square first constructed as a gate for the city’s fortified walls. For a snack, pannekoeken will go down a treat – sometimes sweet, sometimes savoury, but always delicious! You could order some salty fries, taste some of the rich cheeses on offer, or discover the local café culture. A popular activity is to bask in the glory of liquid sunshine – visit the best bars, breweries and beer halls of this brew-loving city with some new travel pals. From a place where nuns used to brew ales, to the mothership of Dutch beer brewing (the original Heineken building) you can go on a tasting tour of the Netherlands’ strong beer history.

Day 14 Berlin

Rise bright and early this morning before jumping on the train to Berlin. Today is a long travel day, so grab a window seat if you can. Berlin has plenty of impressive sites and is known for a great bar scene. Get some of the best recommendations and must-see spots from your leader while you make your way towards the city. Arriving in the evening, your leader will show you around and share all the insider tips and tricks, like where to find the best schnitzel for dinner and the best beers to celebrate a trip well-travelled!

Day 15 Berlin

After yesterday’s late arrival, today is free for you to get your bearings in Berlin. You may like to take a Spree River cruise, visit the multiple museums and galleries at Kulturforum Potsdamer Platz or stop by the impressive Berliner Dom Cathedral. Tonight, you’ll have another meeting with the new members of your group at 6 pm. After, why not join your newfound travel pals for dinner? Berlin’s food is a mix of classic German with Bavarian, Italian and Middle Eastern influences. But who can go past a traditional schnitzel or pretzel together with a stein of beer?

Day 16 Berlin

Set out to discover more of Berlin in detail today, as you’ll have free time to enjoy it as you please. There are plenty of impressive sites for you to check out – the Brandenburg Gate, remnants of the Berlin Wall and the dominating Reichstag building – either on your own, during a bike tour or all at once from the observation deck of the Berlin TV Tower. There are also a couple of unique memorials, like the Jewish Memorial and the Topography of Terror, which are well worth your time. Tonight, maybe explore Berlin’s thriving foodie scene with a few dinner suggestions from your leader.

Day 17 Dresden - Bastei

This morning, say goodbye to Berlin and hop on an early train to Dresden. After checking in to your accommodation, another quick train trip will take you to Rathen, where you can enjoy a hike to the sandstone pinnacles of Bastei. The unique rock formation offers some of Germany’s best views and is home to the remnants of the medieval Neurathen Castle. If a hike doesn’t take your fancy, you’re welcome to join in on the journey to Rathen and spend your time exploring the riverside village or stay in Dresden, immersing yourself in the city’s history and heritage.

Day 18 Prague

Leaving Germany behind, board the train to Prague. When you arrive, check-in at your hotel and then see the highlights of this beautiful city on a leader-led orientation walk. Prague's architecture can be traced from the Middle Ages through to the avant-garde of the Gehry-designed Dancing Building (also called the Fred and Ginger Building). Your walk will finish with a visit to a Czech brewery, where you can sample a pilsner in its homeland. Spend your free afternoon at Prague Castle – the biggest in the Czech Republic – where you'll find the famous St Vitus Cathedral and Golden Lane. Continue to wander through the old Jewish Quarter to see what remains of the city's formerly significant Jewish community.

Day 19 Prague

Another day in Prague and so many possibilities! Perhaps learn how the Bohemian artists, writers, dissidents and the Bohemian mentality shaped the nation. Don’t forget to sample some traditional and modern Czech snacks along the way. If you feel like a day trip out of the city, ask your leader to help you organise a trip to Kutna Hora. See the Church of Santa Barbara and Sedlec ossuary or The Church of Bones – a small Roman Catholic chapel that contains the skeletons of between 40,000 and 70,000 people. At night, Prague’s Old Town comes alive with many great restaurants and pubs, some in old vaulted cellars. The nightlife in Prague is also some of the best in Central Europe. Whether you're after dance clubs, beer halls, jazz clubs or underground absinthe bars, there's something for everyone.

Day 20 Bratislava

Leave Prague and travel to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Set along the Danube, Bratislava blends past and present with its charming Old Town and lively boutiques and cafes. You have a free day to explore it all today. You could climb to the top of the tower at Michael’s Gate or UFO Tower for a bird’s eye view of Bratislava, visit the Bratislava City Museum to learn about the country’s communist past or spot as many of the city’s quirky statues as you can. For dinner, maybe seek out some local delicacies like kapustnica (a sauerkraut and sausage soup) – your leader will have the lowdown on the best spots.

Day 21 Budapest

Transfer from Bratislava to Budapest and enjoy a free day in the self-proclaimed Pearl of the Danube. Perhaps explore the historical Buda Castle and palace complex. Forget about the bustling city and lose yourself in the history of the winding streets of the Castle District, which dates back to the 13th century. In the afternoon, you could take a slow cruise along the Danube for some pretty epic views of the riverside Parliament Building, the Castle District and the bridges linking Buda to Pest. The spectacle is particularly beautiful, especially at sunset and at night.

Day 22 Budapest

Today, you’ll have another meeting with the new members of your group at 6 pm. Before then, the day is yours. Why not stroll around the grand architecture and boulevards to get your bearings? Maybe explore one of the local markets and pick up a langos (a deep-fried Hungarian pastry with an assortment of different toppings). Why not head out to Statue Park to get an insight into the city’s past or take a soak in one of the many thermal bath complexes around town? After the meeting tonight, perhaps get a group of friends together for a Hungarian feast of goulash or stroll to the Jewish quarter and check out some ruin bars – unique nightlife hubs that are great for groups and feature a whole heap of weird and wonderful decor.

Day 23 Vienna

Hop on a train this morning to the cosmopolitan city of Vienna. After dropping your bags at your accommodation, you’re in for a real treat! Stop for kaffe and kuchen (coffee and cake) with your group at Vollpension – a local cafe that empowers older members of the community by providing them with employment and purpose, while bridging the gap between the staff and the younger patrons who visit the cafe. Have a chat with the friendly staff while enjoying your sweet treat in this warm and welcoming environment. 

Day 24 Vienna

You’re free to choose your own adventure today, and Vienna has a lot to offer! Art lovers will be delighted by the vast array of museums, including the Albertina, the Leopold, Kunsthalle Wien and the Museum of Modern Art. Those interested in 19th- and 20th-century Austrian art should visit the Belvedere Palace – home to Gustav Klimt's painting 'The Kiss'. Check out the colourful Hundertwasserhaus or admire the dome of the Secession building. Perhaps visit Hofburg Palace – once the imposing winter retreat of Habsburg royals and now the official residence of the Austrian president, or visit the gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the neo-classical Graben. If you want to see something impressive, head to the State Opera House – one of the world's most important opera houses and the heart of classical Viennese culture. 

Day 25 Salzburg

Travel to Salzburg this morning via train – this Austrian hub on the border of Germany is backdropped by the Eastern Alps and divided by the Salzach River. When you arrive, you’ll have a full free day to explore all this gorgeous city has to offer, from the Old City to the New City. Maybe head to Mirabell Palace and Gardens for a picnic or discover Mozart’s birthplace. Head to the medieval walls of Fortress Hohensalzburg and marvel at the architecture (you can also pay to get inside) or find a great viewpoint and snap some epic photos of the city in the shadow of the mountains, with the fortress looming above on the hill. Tonight, why not ask your local leader for the best spot for dinner?

Day 26 Bled

Travel to the stunning Slovenian resort town of Bled today. Sitting at the edge of the Julian Alps, this place is full of picturesque sights that are sure to take your breath away. When you arrive, follow your leader to the shore of glistening Lake Bled, from which many of the town’s attractions can be seen, and walk along the shoreline. After soaking in the sights with your group, you’ll have a free afternoon to choose your own route. For a taste of the local cuisine, try some Bled cake made of vanilla, custard, cream and pastry (many local cafes and cake shops claim theirs is the best, so if you must, maybe try a few and compare). After settling into your accommodation tonight, why not get together with your group for dinner, feasting on local specialities?

Day 27 Bled

There’s no better place to get active than in Bled! Today you have a free day to enjoy all the fun activities Bled has to offer (calling all nature lovers!) Maybe take a full-day adventure around Triglav Massive – there are many outdoor activities available here to get the blood pumping, such as rafting, caving, canoeing and swimming. Why not hire a bike and head four kilometres out of town to Vintgar Gorge, where you can walk through a beautiful natural canyon. Perhaps explore Bled Castle, perched atop the cliff overlooking the lake, or catch a pletna (small wooden boat) over to the island in the middle of the lake to ring the wishing bell. Your leader will have all the best options, so be sure to chat with them for their recommendations. If you’d prefer to have a relaxing day and just enjoy the beauty of Lake Bled, find a quiet spot near the lake and spend the day reading or people-watching.

Day 28 Venice

Travel by train and local bus through stunning scenery to one of the world's most unique cities today – postcard-perfect Venice. A city of canals, Venice is built over a hundred small islands connected by 400 bridges. When you arrive, head out for an orientation walk with your tour leader – the best way to see Venice is by foot – passing by the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, Palace of the Doge, Piazza San Marco and the Bridge of Sighs. Wander the cobblestone streets and spacious piazzas, crossing bridges and stopping for a gelato on your way, if the moment calls. There are shops, markets, galleries and churches around every corner here, so there’s plenty to explore. Tonight, what better to do than tuck into some iconic Italian cuisine (and maybe a big glass of vino?).

Day 29 Venice

With no activities planned for today, you’re free to leave your accommodation at any time after checkout. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to end! Italy’s city of canals is an extraordinary place to see on foot, and if you’d like to spend an extra day or two exploring, just speak to your booking agent.