Real Central Europe

Intrepid Travel · 15 days
Real Central Europe
Real Central Europe
Real Central Europe
Real Central Europe
Real Central Europe
Real Central Europe
Real Central Europe
Real Central Europe
Real Central Europe
Real Central Europe
Real Central Europe
Real Central Europe
Real Central Europe
Real Central Europe
Real Central Europe
15 Days
From AUD $2965
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


 (20 reviews)

Real Central Europe

Real Central Europe

Intrepid Travel · 15 days
4.5
20 Reviews
View Map
Duration

15 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Beginning in Germany and ending in Italy, this 15-day trip hits a whopping seven countries. Joining other solo travellers, you’ll see historic landmarks, medieval squares, hilltop castles, romantic canals and thriving nightlife as you make memories with new friends that last a lifetime.

Highlights

  • Discover the magical Cesky Krumlov – you'd be forgiven for thinking you were in a fairytale, as this place is filled with medieval buildings, lush countryside and the flowing Vltava River.
  • Step into the pages of a fable on the shore of Slovenia’s Lake Bled – home to the bluest waters you might ever see. Explore the church on the island, walk around the lake surrounded by mountains and treat yourself to a slice of cream cake.
  • Eat your way through Europe with a local leader who knows all the best spots. Enjoy langos in Budapest, try Zapiekanka in Krakow, have dinner at a classic Polish milk bar and find delicious street food in Italy and Prague.
  • Explore Berlin, where history and modern culture intertwine. If it’s nightlife you’re after, Germany’s capital is home to thriving bars, underground clubs and an alternative scene not to be missed.
  • Dive into Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Venice and Krakow – with two nights spent in almost every destination and loads of free time, you can eat, shop and sightsee at your own pace and not just catch a glimpse from a bus window!

Trip Details

Duration

15 days

Transportation

Train,Metro,Private vehicle,Public bus,Taxi

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Berlin, Austria

Finishes

Venice, Austria

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

18 - 39 Year Olds Only

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Berlin
Guten Tag! Welcome to Germany. Your adventure kicks off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight in Berlin. If you arrive in Berlin early, maybe explore the city on foot – Berlin is packed with historic sites, cutting-edge galleries and iconic architecture. The city also boasts a party scene that makes NYC’s nightlife seem tame. If you’re keen to see what Berlin is about, it’s highly recommended that you arrive a couple of days early. Why not get to know your new travel crew tonight and head out for currywurst (hot dogs covered in ketchup, Worcester sauce and curry powder) and a stein.

Optional Activities:

  • Berlin - Storyline of Berlin Urban Adventure (65 EUR)
  • Berlin - German History Museum (7 EUR)
  • Berlin - Kulturforum Potsdamer Platz (12 EUR)
  • Berlin - TV Tower (25 EUR)
  • Berlin - Checkpoint Charlie Museum (18 EUR)
  • Berlin - Story of Berlin Museum (14 EUR)
  • Berlin - Topography of Terror - Free
  • Berlin - Reichstag (time slot must be booked online in advance) - Free
  • Berlin - Schloss Charlottenburg (12 EUR)
  • Berlin - Berliner Dom Cathedral (10 EUR)
  • Berlin - Jewish Museum (10 EUR)
  • Berlin - Bike Tour (30 EUR)
  • Berlin - Museum Pass (3 Day Ticket) (32 EUR)
  • Berlin - National History Museum (10 EUR)
  • Berlin - Spree River Cruise (27 EUR)
  • Berlin - Pergamon Museum (18 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Wroclaw
This morning, say goodbye to Germany and hop on a train to Wroclaw – the cultural centre of southwest Poland sitting on the banks of River Oder. You’ll arrive in the early afternoon. Settle into your hotel, then follow your leader on an orientation walk around the city that makes it feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. The rest of the day is free for you to explore how you wish. Maybe check out Ostrów Tumski (Cathedral Island), the Old Town Square and the Four Denominations District, where the city’s incredible architecture and history are on display. Or appreciate Wroclaw from River Oder and picnic with a few of your new travel buddies.

Optional Activities:

  • Wroclaw - Panorama Raclawicka entrance (50 PLN)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Krakow
This morning, board a train to Krakow – your base for the next two nights. As you stroll the streets of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, glimpse the medieval architecture, castles, churches and sprawling squares with your leader. Grab some zapiekanka along the way (a baguette topped with mushroom and cheese) – a beloved street snack. Later, strike out on your own and maybe visit Wawel Royal Castle, which sits atop a hill next to the Vistula River or glimpse the impressive St Mary's Basilica and its extraordinary wood-carved Gothic altarpiece. If churches are your thing, the neo-Gothic St Francis' Basilica is worth a visit.

Included Activities:

  • Krakow - Zapiekanka Snack in Kazimierz Quarter

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Krakow
Today is a free day for you to explore Krakow. Walking the ‘Royal Route’ – the former path of Polish monarchs – takes you past most of the Old Town’s greatest treasures, including Florianska Gate and the Barbican. Tonight, visit a traditional bar mleczny (milk bar) for dinner. Polish Milk Bars, which were popular in World War II, are local canteens where you can get a home-cooked meal. Offering a glimpse into authentic Polish life, having dinner here means no English menus, sharing tables when its busy and soaking up the local atmosphere. There are very few tourists who think to visit a milk bar, unless they know a local!

Included Activities:

  • Krakow - Bar Mleczny

Optional Activities:

  • Krakow - Bike Tour (Day or Night) (100 PLN)
  • Krakow - Galicia Jewish Museum (20 PLN)
  • Krakow - History Museum (28 PLN)
  • Krakow - St Mary's Basilica (15 PLN)
  • Krakow - Wawel Royal Castle (35 PLN)
  • Wieliczka - Salt Mines Tour (230 PLN)
  • Oswiecim - Half-Day Trip & Guided Tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau (180 PLN)
  • Krakow - Walking Tour - Free

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Prague
This morning after breakfast, head to the Czech Republic. Take a bus to the town of Ostrava, then board the train to Prague. After checking into your hotel, your leader will show you some of Prague’s best sites on an orientation walk. Then you’re free to explore on your own. Maybe wander the streets of the Jewish Quarter and check out the oldest surviving synagogue in Europe or learn about Prague’s favourite son at the Franz Kafka Museum. Make sure to take a scenic stroll along the Charles Bridge and watch the Astronomical Clock in action as it ticks over. This is a gorgeous city, so exploring on foot is often people’s go-to activity.

Optional Activities:

  • Prague - Kafka Museum (300 CZK)

Accommodation:

  • Hostel (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Prague
Today you can enjoy more free time in Prague to visit the sites you missed yesterday. Prague Castle has a great viewpoint that provides sweeping views of the city’s red rooftops and medieval architecture. Consider a day trip to Kutna Hora, where you can visit Sedlec Ossuary – an eerie chapel decorated with human skeletons – or St Barbara Church and its medieval frescoes. Prague’s Old Town becomes particularly magical at night. Return for an evening stroll to soak up the atmosphere before checking out some of the town’s cosy cellar hangouts or underground Absinthe bars. If you’re into jazz, Prague also boasts one of the best scenes in Europe! Ask your leader for suggestions if you’re not sure where to head out tonight.

Optional Activities:

  • Prague - Bike Tour (650 CZK)
  • Prague - Jewish Quarter (500 CZK)
  • Prague - Kafka Museum (300 CZK)
  • Kutna Hora - Day Trip (by public transport) (250 CZK)
  • Prague - Mucha Museum (300 CZK)
  • Prague - Museum of Communism (380 CZK)
  • Prague - National Museum (350 CZK)
  • Prague - Castle Visit (450 CZK)
  • Kutna Hora - Sedlec Ossuary & Bone Church (160 CZK)
  • Kutna Hora - Church of St Barbara (160 CZK)
  • Prague - Town Hall Clock Tower (300 CZK)

Accommodation:

  • Hostel (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Cesky Krumlov
Bid farewell to Prague today and travel south to the fairytale-like town of Cesky Krumlov. Dating back to the 13th century, this tiny town closely resembles Prague with its gorgeous castle across the river and pretty mix of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Head out on a leader-led walk around town, as they provide insight into the architectural symbolism and Old Town mysteries. After, use some free time to head to the top of the Castle Tower for a great view of the town’s red rooftops and distant rolling green hills, explore the castle and its gardens or browse the shops that line the riverfront. If you’re feeling active, ask your leader about rafting and canoeing activities on offer (time and weather permitting).

Optional Activities:

  • Cesky Krumlov - Brewery Tour (350 CZK)
  • Cesky Krumlov - Guided walking tour (300 CZK)
  • Cesky Krumlov - Egon Schiele Art Centrum (200 CZK)
  • Cesky Krumlov - Rafting or Canoe Trip (per person) (1200 CZK)
  • Cesky Krumlov - Guided Castle Tour (300 CZK)

Accommodation:

  • Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Vienna
Hop into your private transfer and travel across the border to Austria and the Baroque city of Vienna. A perennial favourite for the world’s most liveable city, Vienna is also a dream for starry-eyed travellers looking for delicious coffee and pastries (sachertorte in particular), classical music and grand palaces. Get acquainted with the city on a leader-led walk and then enjoy some free time to explore on your own. Art lovers have their pick of museums to explore – maybe check out modern Austrian art at the Leopold Museum, paintings by Monet, Degas and Picasso at the neo-classical Albertina or the world’s largest collection of paintings by Austrian painter Gustav Klimt at Belvedere Palace. This evening, why not sample Vienna’s incredible musical heritage and catch a performance at one of the city’s historic venues such as the Vienna State Opera House.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
9
Day 9: Vienna
Spend another day exploring Vienna’s rich artistic and intellectual heritage. Maybe head to Schloss Belvedere (Belvedere Palace), Schoenbrunn Palace or the Hofburg Palace complex to discover Austria’s symmetrical take on over-the-top grandeur. Exploring some of the city’s more specific museums such as the Schnapps Museum, the Sigmund Freud Museum or the Globe Museum, which is located inside the impressive Austrian National Museum. Climb the tower of St Stephen’s Cathedral, take a spin on the Prater Ferris Wheel or catch a dressage show at the Spanish Riding School. If you didn’t head out last night, maybe cap off a culture-filled day with a spot of Mozart Bach or Schubert at the opera house.

Optional Activities:

  • Vienna - Albertina Museum (19 EUR)
  • Vienna - Belvedere Gallery (Lower Gallery) (17 EUR)
  • Vienna - Hofburg Palace & Sisi Museum (20 EUR)
  • Vienna - Leopold Museum (17 EUR)
  • Vienna - Prater Ferris Wheel (15 EUR)
  • Vienna - Schoenbrunn Palace (22 EUR)
  • Vienna - Spanish Riding School Practice (28 EUR)
  • Vienna - St Stephen's Tower (6 EUR)
  • Vienna - Vienna Boys Choir Concert (70 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
10
Day 10: Budapest
This morning you’ll continue your exploration of Europe’s opulent past in Budapest. Take a train and watch the scenery pass you by – when you arrive, your leader will show you around the city on an orientation walk where you can sample a Hungarian specialty - langos (fried dough). More than just a fairy-tale-like ode to the past, Budapest is also a bustling city with hip bars, trendy cafes and plenty of cheap eats. Your evening is free and your leader will make sure that you're equipped with all the insider knowledge when it comes to which are the best (and best-kept secret) ruin bars. A night out here might just be your highlight of the trip!

Included Activities:

  • Budapest – Ruin Bar Visit
  • Budapest - Langos Snack

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
11
Day 11: Budapest
Enjoy a free day to explore Budapest further today. Visible from pretty much everywhere in the city, the 13th-century Buda Castle is a must-see. Why not imagine how Hungarian kings used to live by touring the palace complex, which houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. Or you could head to Fisherman’s Bastion for the best view of the city before taking a leisurely stroll along the cobbled streets of the Castle District. Another option is a boat trip along the Danube River, where you’ll get a different view of the Parliament buildings, the Castle District and the bridges that link Buda and Pest. Tonight, find one of the many great dinner spots or head back to the ruin bars for a night out.

Optional Activities:

  • Budapest - Bike Ride (6000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Great Synagogue (13000 HUF)
  • Budapest - House of Terror (4000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Hungarian National Museum (2900 HUF)
  • Budapest - Hungarian State Opera House Tour (9000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Parliament Tour (12000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Pub Crawl (starting from) (9000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Szechenyi Thermal Baths (starting from) (13500 HUF)
  • Budapest - Transport and Entry to Statue Park (5000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Central Market - Free

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
12
Day 12: Bled
Get ready for a long day of travel today as you make the journey to Ljubljana. From there, you’ll travel to Bled – a scenic lakeside town tucked at the foothills of the Julian Alps. Arrive in the late afternoon and head to the iconic lake. Here, your leader will point out the town’s best attractions, like its 11th-century clifftop castle and the small island in the lake’s centre. Use the rest of the day to search for Bled’s famous cream cake (which shouldn’t be hard, every cafe in town claims to make the best one) or choose to join the group for an optional dinner of Slovenian specialties.

Accommodation:

  • Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
13
Day 13: Bled
Postcard-perfect Bled (the perfect spot if you need a new banging Instagram) is also tailor-made for adventure, and as today is a free day, it’s up to you how you’d like to get active (or chill out and stare at the scenery – it never gets old). Hiking, biking, canoeing and rafting are all on the cards so you can choose to hire a bike and explore the surrounds, head to Vintgar Gorge for a walk through its natural canyon or go rafting along the Soca River. If you’d like to keep it more lowkey, head to Bled Castle for some exploration or take a plenta (small wooden boat) to the church on the island in the middle of the lake to ring the wishing bell. You could even venture further afield and take a day trip to Bohinj – another lakeside town.

Optional Activities:

  • Bled - Mountain Bike Hire (25 EUR)
  • Bled - Pletna Boat Trip (14 EUR)
  • Triglav National Park - Canyoning (65 EUR)
  • Bled - Castle (15 EUR)
  • Triglav National Park - River Rafting (55 EUR)
  • Triglav National Park - Bus and Cable Car Trip to Mt Vogel (32 EUR)
  • Triglav National Park - Emerald River Adventure (full day) (110 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
14
Day 14: Venice
This morning, travel to Venice – brace yourself for some amazing scenery on the way. Venice is one of a kind, built over a hundred small islands connected by 400 bridges. As well as all those romantic canals, it has all the hallmarks of a fine old Italian city – world-class food, performance, art and architecture. Use your free time to explore – the best way to go is on foot. Try to take in all the famous sights, like the Grand Canal, the shops of the Rialto Bridge, the Palace of the Doge (ruler of Venice), the Piazza San Marco and its golden basilica, and the Bridge of Sighs. Don't even think about leaving until you've eaten some tiramisu! This is where the dish was born, and they know how to do it just right.

Optional Activities:

  • Venice - Doge's Palace & Bridge of Sighs (30 EUR)
  • Peggy Guggenheim Collection (17 EUR)
  • Venice - St Mark's Campanile (12 EUR)
  • Venice - St Mark's Basilica Treasury (5 EUR)
  • Venice - Accademia Gallery (16 EUR)
  • Ca’ D’Oro - Galería Franchetti (15 EUR)
  • Venice - Gondola Ride (80 EUR)
  • Venice - Chicchetti & Wine Tour of Venice Urban Adventure (112 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (multi-share) (Number of Nights: 1)
15
Day 15: Venice
Your trip comes to an end today after breakfast. As there is much to see here, you may want to book an extra couple of days in Venice to give yourself more time to explore – just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $2,965
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 15 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Beginning in Germany and ending in Italy, this 15-day trip hits a whopping seven countries. Joining other solo travellers, you’ll see historic landmarks, medieval squares, hilltop castles, romantic canals and thriving nightlife as you make memories with new friends that last a lifetime.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 28 Mar 2026

View Map

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
4.5
Amanda
Traveled, August 2023

08/23/2023

This tour was the trip of a lifetime. It allows you to see and experience so many different places within the two week time frame. Met some amazing new friends and our tour guide Jo who was the most kind and knowledgeable tour guide!

5.0
Ankitha
Traveled, July 2023

08/06/2023

This trip was absolutely fantastic! The destinations you visit are incredibly unique, and you really get to explore and do activities you have an interest in. Our group leader was superb at showing us around and providing recommendations for each place - highly recommend!

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Book Now