Experience a truly royal journey through Austria, Slovakia, and Poland, where you’ll stay in magnificent, real castles that bring history to life. Settle into luxurious castle accommodations, explore stunning landscapes, and immerse yourself in rich cultures as you experience the splendor of royal living.
DAYS 1-2—WELCOME TO VIENNA!
After arriving in Vienna following an overnight flight, the afternoon is yours to settle into our hotel before our welcome dinner as a group. D
DAY 3—VIENNA/SCHOENBRUNN CASTLE
Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before exploring Austria’s captivating capital. Enjoy a guided walking tour through Vienna, marveling at its grand Baroque architecture and iconic landmarks. Together, we’ll pause for a coffee break featuring a slice of the region’s famous Sacher Cake. After some free time to explore the city and enjoy lunch on your own, step into the grand Schoenbrunn Palace to see this 1,441-room residence and learn the history of the Habsburg monarchs. B
DAY 4—BRATISLAVA/CHATEAU BELA CASTLE
This morning, journey to Bratislava, the vibrant capital of Slovakia and one of Europe’s youngest capital cities. Nestled along the banks of the Danube River, Bratislava offers a blend of old-world charm and modern energy. Together we’ll experience a city walking tour to see the ancient trading routes, unique architecture, and learn the history of the Austro- Hungarian Empire. Later, enjoy free time to explore before we head to our home for the next two nights: the stunning Château Bela Castle. Tonight, we’ll gather for a group dinner in the castle’s restaurant. B, D
DAY 5—WINE TASTING/CHÂTEAU BÉLA CASTLE
Today, immerse yourself in the history and charm of Château Bela Castle with a guided tour, followed by a wine tasting featuring locally produced wines. After a group lunch in our castle, the afternoon is yours to unwind and explore the property’s luxurious amenities. Take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool, relax in the wellness center, or stroll through the serene gardens. B, L
DAY 6—BANSKÁ ŠTIAVNICA/GALICIA NUEVA CASTLE
This morning we travel to Banská Štiavnica, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning beauty and rich history. Enjoy a guided tour of this town, which includes a fascinating falconry demonstration! After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace and enjoy lunch at a local café. This afternoon, transfer to Galicia Nueva Castle for our second royal stay, where we’ll enjoy a tour of the castle and its park before dinner and live music at the castle. B, D
DAY 7—HIGH TATRAS
After breakfast, we’ll set off for the High Tatras, pausing along the way to enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant and sample local cheeses. Our journey continues to the charming village of Štrbské Pleso, where we’ll check in at the luxurious 5-star Grand Hotel Kempinski High Tatras. Nestled on the shores of Lake Štrbské Pleso within High Tatras National Park, this historic property is often hailed as one of the world’s finest hotels. During our stay, we’ll take a guided tour of this stunning castle-like retreat to learn the history and see exactly why this property has won Europe’s most prestigious hotel awards. The evening will then be yours to savor dinner at your leisure and explore the beautiful regal surroundings. B, L
DAY 8—HIGH TATRAS
Start your day with a relaxing morning at your own pace, perhaps indulging in the hotel’s spa and wellness center or venturing out to explore the scenic trails of High Tatras National Park. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike, the park offers stunning vistas and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Slovakia’s oldest national park. In the afternoon, we’ll come together at the hotel for a traditional tea, complete with coffee and cakes, as we continue enjoying this shared travel experience. The evening is yours to enjoy dinner and unwind as you wish. B, Afternoon Tea
DAY 9—KRAKÓW/KAZIMIERZ
Today we’ll travel to Kraków, Poland, where we’ll begin with a guided walking tour of the city’s historic Old Town. Following some free time to enjoy lunch at your leisure, we’ll delve deeper into Kraków’s rich heritage with a guided tour of Kazimierz, the city’s former Jewish quarter. In the evening, we’ll come together for a delightful dinner, complete with live music, at a traditional Jewish restaurant in the heart of Kazimierz. B, D
DAY 10—KRAKÓW
After breakfast, enjoy a full day to explore Kraków at your own pace, with the option to visit Schindler’s Factory (tickets must be purchased in advance and on your own). Alternatively, join the group for an optional excursion to Auschwitz, a solemn and powerful experience honoring the memory of those who lost their lives in the Holocaust. In the evening, we’ll come together for a farewell dinner at a delightful local restaurant in the heart of Old Town. B, D
Option—Auschwitz/Birkenau Tour
Take part in a poignant and deeply moving experience through this former Nazi concentration camp. Learn about the tragic stories of the Holocaust and reflect on the impact this site has had on world history. L Price: $145 per person
DAY 11—FAREWELL
This morning concludes your castle adventure as you depart for home, taking with you exciting regal memories and new friends. B
Quality Accommodations
Nights 2-3: Hotel Stefanie, Vienna (or similar)
Nights 4-5: Château Bela Castle, Belá
Night 6: Galicia Nueva Castle Hotel, Halič
Nights 7-8: Grand Hotel Kempinski High Tatras, Štrbské Pleso
Nights 9-10: Grand Ascot, Krakow (or similar)
Dates:
Sep 25-Oct 5, 2025
Price Per Person:
Double $5,997
Single $6,645
Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
Call for pricing
Depart/Return:
Chicago, IL
Inclusions:
Round-trip airfare from the U.S.
Professional, English speaking Tour Director
Welcome Reception and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Available about 90 days prior to departure.
Departure Time
Available about 90 days prior to departure.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our Pre and Post hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport. Free parking can be offered during the tour with a pre or post night, please let us know ahead of time if you desire this service.
Walking Distance
To fully enjoy your CTD vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace for a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, many US and international airports require lengthy walks to get from ticketing counters to your departure gate. Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
We are finding that larger international cities are closing their historic districts to motor traffic. This, of course, adds to the amount of walking involved when visiting a city (sometimes on uneven and/or cobblestone walkways). In addition, you should know that you may be required to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law often does not allow travelers to remain on the motorcoach while it is parked for a scheduled stop.
Average Temps
High of 68°, low of 45°
Currency
Euro in Austria & Slovakia; Polish złoty in Poland
Time Zone
GMT+1
Hotel Amenities
Hair dryers, TV/cable, telephone, and spa services are available.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for
your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
A valid US Passport is required for travel to/from the United States.
Land Tours begin one day later. Airport transfers are not included with Land Only Tours.
“Smart casual” dress is required for dining at the Chateau Bela, Hotel Kempinski, and Galicia Nueva:
For ladies: long trousers, skirt, dress, polo shirt or blouse, dress sandals or close-toed shoes
For gentlemen: long trousers, jacket, collared shirt, fully close-toed shoes
Shorts, three-quarter trousers, flip-flops, or slippers are not allowed.
Travel Protection Available
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
