Fly Stay Cruise - 27 Day Eastern European Escapade Tour & Splendours of Europe

Your journey begins with an international flight from Australia to the Czech Republic, where you'll enjoy award-winning service, complete with in-flight entertainment and complimentary dining.

Arrive in Prague, the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic. Upon landing, you'll be greeted and transferred to your hotel, where you'll settle in for a three-night stay. This evening, join your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a relaxed welcome drink. Special InformationArrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

Today, you'll be transferred by coach from your hotel to the Prague Castle area, where your walking tour begins. After passing through the castle's three courtyards, you'll visit the magnificent St. Vitus Cathedral. From there, you'll descend the Castle Steps, enjoying beautiful panoramic views over Prague, before continuing on to Charles Bridge. Crossing the bridge brings you into the Old Town, where the tour concludes at Old Town Square in front of the iconic Astronomical Clock. Inspiring Highlights Prague Walking Tour Visit to St. Vitus Cathedral

Enjoy a leisurely day at your own pace. We recommend wandering through the charming Baroque streets of Mala Strana and soaking in the history of Josefov, the Jewish Quarter.

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive along the Elbe Valley to Dresden, often called the “Florence on the Elbe.” Explore the stunning Frauenkirche, the Castle of the Electors of Saxony, and the Green Vault with its exquisite collection of Meissen porcelain. Inspiring Highlights Drive along Elbe Valley to Dresden

Today you'll explore the heart of Germany's capital. Since the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, Berlin has transformed into the vibrant and dynamic city it is today. Highlights include the striking Reichstag, the iconic Brandenburg Gate, the elegant State Opera House, and bustling Alexanderplatz. You'll also visit historic sites from the Cold War era, including the former Checkpoint Charlie. Inspiring Highlights Orientation tour of Berlin Explore Alexanderplatz and the State Opera House

This morning, you'll be transferred to Warsaw, the vibrant capital of Poland. With its rich history, lively streets, and fascinating sights, there's plenty to discover.

On your guided sightseeing tour, explore Warsaw's historic centre, much of which was rebuilt after the war. Reflect on the story of the Jewish Ghetto, brought to life in Polanski's film The Pianist, as you visit with a local guide. See the Ghetto Heroes Monument, the Palace of Culture, the Chopin Memorial, and enjoy an excursion to the Royal Castle. In the evening, join your fellow guests for a special highlight dinner, accompanied by beautiful classical melodies. Inspiring Highlights Guided tour of Warsaw's historic centre Dinner with classical music Visit the Ghetto Heroes Monument and Chopin Memorial

This morning, you'll leave Warsaw and travel to Kraków. Discover this impressive medieval city on a guided sightseeing tour, including Wawel Hill with its cathedral and castle. Stroll through the Old Town, visiting the beautiful St. Mary's Church and the historic Cloth Hall. Inspiring Highlights Orientation tour of Kraków

This morning, visit the Auschwitz Concentration Camp for a guided tour, offering a moving insight into the atrocities of World War II. Afterwards, return to Kraków where the afternoon and evening are free at your leisure. Take the opportunity to enjoy traditional Polish cuisine at one of the city's many outdoor restaurants, and experience the lively atmosphere that brings Krakow to life in the evening. Inspiring Highlights Visit to Concentration Camp at Auschwitz

Today, journey past the dramatic Castle of Oravský Hrad and cross the scenic Tatra Mountains, travelling through Slovakia and onward to Budapest, the capital of Hungary. This evening, enjoy a special dinner paired with a traditional folklore show, offering a truly immersive taste of local culture in Budapest. Inspiring Highlights Dinner with traditional folklore show

Today, you begin an exciting new chapter of your journey, cruising along Europe's majestic waterways. After checking out of your hotel, you'll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your welcoming captain and crew will be ready to greet you. This evening, settle in and relax on board as you enjoy an authentic Hungarian folklore show. Special Information This itinerary is intended as a guide and may be subject to change due to operational considerations, including variations in water levels. The cruise may therefore operate differently from the outline above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further details.

Budapest is a city of striking contrasts. On one side of the Danube, Buda is home to many of the city's elegant landmarks, while Pest reflects its fascinating history and vibrant energy. Linking the two is the iconic Chain Bridge, one of the capital's most recognisable symbols.Today, you'll discover Budapest's story on a guided city tour, exploring many of its highlights and learning more about its impressive architecture and scenic setting. The Hungarian capital reveals a unique blend of cultures, cuisine, and lively atmosphere, making it a captivating destination for visitors from around the world. If you're feeling active, you may alternatively choose to hike up Gellért Hill for rewarding views over the city. Cruise Highlights Guided tour of Budapest's historic and modern landmarks

Bordering Austria and Hungary, the Slovakian capital is yours to discover today. Stroll along charming cobblestone streets and admire the elegance of ornate Baroque palaces as you explore with a local guide, passing the Renaissance courtyard of the Old Town Hall and the picturesque gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace.Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace, perhaps browsing the quaint boutiques that line the streets.This afternoon, you'll be welcomed into the home of a local family, where you'll gain insight into Slovak culture while enjoying traditional sweet treats and coffee. Cruise Highlights Walking tour of Bratislava Home-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian family

A rich wave of culture defines life in the Austrian capital, where some of history's most celebrated composers once walked the streets in search of inspiration. Today, explore Vienna by coach and on foot, passing iconic imperial palaces and the grand buildings that line the Ringstrasse, including the Vienna State Opera.Alternatively, you may choose a guided cycling tour, riding along idyllic riverbanks, past monuments and lush green parks, before continuing by the famous Prater. Cruise Highlights Guided tour of Vienna See imperial palaces and the Vienna State Opera

This morning, you may choose to hike up to Dürnstein Castle, pausing to imagine how it once appeared when Richard the Lionheart was held captive here after the Third Crusade.Alternatively, enjoy a guided cycling tour from Dürnstein to Melk, passing rolling vineyards and picturesque landscapes along the way.After your visit to Dürnstein Castle, relax on the Sun Deck as you cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Wachau Valley toward Melk, set in the heart of the region's renowned wine country. Upon arrival, a local guide will lead you on a tour of the magnificent 900-year-old Benedictine abbey, including its historic monastic library and medieval manuscripts preserved by monks during fires in the 13th century. Cruise Highlights Dürnstein Castle Tour of Melk Abbey Cruise along the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley

Set at the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers, Passau is a postcard-perfect town shaped by its surrounding waterways. Romantic, maze-like lanes wind through the city, opening onto spacious squares and charming promenades lined with classical boutiques.This afternoon, join your local guide for a tour of Passau, where you'll discover a collection of beautiful Baroque buildings, many dating back to the 17th century. Pause to admire the striking hilltop silhouette of Oberhaus Fortress and visit St. Stephen's Cathedral, home to the largest church organ in Europe.Later, return to the ship and enjoy a peaceful afternoon cruising through the heart of Europe. Cruise Highlights Guided tour of Passau's historic centre and Baroque landmarks Visit St. Stephen's Cathedral, home to Europe's largest organ

After breakfast, set out to explore one of Germany's best-preserved medieval cities, where more than two millennia of history await. Accompanied by a local guide, you'll wander through Regensburg's UNESCO World Heritage–listed Old Town, once the seat of parliament. Elegant patrician houses line the streets, offering a vivid reminder of the city's former importance as a major trading centre.Later, return to your Star-Ship and enjoy a scenic cruise through the picturesque landscapes of the Main–Danube Canal, passing Kelheim as you continue onward to Nuremberg. Cruise Highlights Guided tour of Regensburg's UNESCO-listed Old Town Scenic cruise along the Main–Danube Canal

Today, enjoy an included guided tour of Nuremberg, where centuries of history unfold through striking architecture that has inspired artists and thinkers from across the globe.Following the tour, you'll have free time to wander at your own pace, strolling past charming streets and beautifully restored homes that tell a powerful story of resilience and renewal after the war. Cruise Highlights Guided sightseeing through Nuremberg's historic heart

This morning, discover the UNESCO World Heritage town of Bamberg, celebrated for its exceptionally well-preserved medieval centre. With thousands of protected buildings, the old town is rich in atmosphere, historic detail and timeless European charm.Join your local guide for a walk through streets lined with ornate façades, pausing at the grand New Residence, once home to the powerful prince-bishops. Unwind in the tranquil Rose Garden before taking in sweeping views from medieval Altenburg Castle, set high above the town. Cruise Highlights Guided exploration of Bamberg's UNESCO-listed old town

Set on the banks of the Main River, Würzburg is a captivating gateway to the Romantic Road, Bavaria's iconic scenic route connecting some of Germany's most enchanting medieval towns. The surrounding hills, draped in vineyards, reveal one of the country's most important wine-growing regions and create a picture-perfect backdrop for your exploration.Today's sightseeing includes a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Würzburg Residence, where grand Baroque design meets Italian-inspired elegance. With insight from your local guide, discover how the palace's architects blended a range of influential styles to create this extraordinary masterpiece. Afterwards, continue with a guided walking tour through the historic centre, taking in landmarks such as the Gothic Marienkapelle and the Town Hall. Cruise Highlights Guided walk through Würzburg's historic old town Visit the UNESCO-listed Würzburg Residence

This morning begins with an exclusive glassblowing presentation at the Glass Art Museum, offering a fascinating insight into this time-honoured craft. Afterwards, travel by coach to the charming riverside village of Miltenberg, a place that beautifully reflects traditional Bavarian life.Join your local guide for a walking tour through Miltenberg's winding cobblestone lanes, lined with vividly painted houses. Prosperity once flowed through the village via river trade, and traces of this historic wealth remain visible throughout the town today. Alternatively, choose a more active option with a walk up to Mildenburg Castle. Once in ruins, the restored fortress now houses an impressive art collection and rewards visitors with atmospheric surroundings. Cruise Highlights Glassblowing demonstration at the Glass Art Museum Guided walk through Miltenberg's historic streets

Enjoy a leisurely morning aboard your Star-Ship as it glides toward Rüdesheim, a town renowned for centuries of winemaking tradition. On arrival, take a charming ride on the Winzerexpress to Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum, where an extraordinary collection of historic music boxes is displayed within a postcard-perfect, half-timbered building.Alternatively, opt for a more active experience with a guided walk through the surrounding vineyards, offering insight into the landscape that has shaped this celebrated wine region.After lunch, relax as you cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Rhine Gorge. From the Sun Deck, keep watch for dramatic castles and fortresses rising above the river from the forested hillsides. Cruise Highlights Visit to Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum Sail through the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge, dotted with castles

Cruise the Rhine this morning from Koblenz to Cologne, where over 2,000 years of history come vividly to life. Founded by the Romans in 50 AD, Cologne is among Germany's oldest cities, with layers of ancient remains, medieval landmarks and enduring monuments shaping its character.Later today, join your local guide for a walking tour through the Old Town, crossing historic bridges that withstood the air raids of World War II. Stand before the awe-inspiring Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site whose delicate twin spires dominate the skyline, before setting off on a playful exploration to uncover some of the city's most iconic local treasures.This evening, your crew will be delighted to host a special farewell dinner on board. Cruise Highlights Guided walk through Cologne's historic Old Town Scenic Rhine cruise from Koblenz to Cologne

Begin your day with a glass-top canal cruise through Amsterdam's UNESCO World Heritage–listed waterways, gliding past graceful merchant houses that speak to the city's wealth and influence during the Dutch Golden Age, when Amsterdam stood at the heart of global trade. Afterwards, enjoy time at leisure to explore the city at your own pace.Alternatively, choose a more active adventure with a guided cycling tour from your Star-Ship into the tranquil countryside of Waterland, passing classic Dutch villages and iconic windmills along the way. Cruise Highlights Glass-top canal cruise through Amsterdam's UNESCO-listed waterways

After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow travellers as you disembark your Star-Ship and transfer to the airport, carrying with you lasting memories of the dramatic Rhine Gorge and the serene landscapes of the Dutch countryside. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience. Special InformationDeparture transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your ship at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight.

Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience.