Discover Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Austria and the Czech Republic
Overview
On this comprehensive journey to Eastern Europe discover five distinctly different—and fascinating—nations. In Warsaw and Krakow you’ll explore important sites of Polish culture and history, including the charming Old Town areas, both World Heritage sites. During two days in Budapest, discover both the Buda and Pest sides of the Hungarian capital, which stretches along the Danube River.
Travel through the Austrian countryside to Vienna to follow in the footsteps of Habsburg monarchs at the grand Schönbrunn Palace and enjoy a classical music performance. Experience warm hospitality in the Slovakian capital of Bratislava, dining with local families after exploring their charming city. Spend two full days in the enchanting Czech city of Prague, with its acclaimed museums and cultural treasures, including the Hradcany castle district and historic Jewish area, Josefov. Top off your tour with a special dinner within the Prague Castle complex.
Special Value
This tour is specially designed for a small group of 16 to 24 Smithsonian travelers and offers outstanding travel value. Prices include airfare, airline taxes, fuel surcharges, and departure fees.
Smithsonian Experts
Throughout the tour, travel in the company of an exceptional Smithsonian Study Leader. Carol Reynolds is a music historian and Slavic Specialist. A retired professor (Southern Methodist University) she designs curricula and travels widely as a speaker and researcher. Carol will lead the April and September 28 departures. Alexander J. Motyl is professor of political science at Rutgers University-Newark, and an expert in contemporary politics of Eastern Europe, Ukraine, and Russia. Alexander will lead the May 2013 departure. Hugh Agnew has been fascinated by Czech history and the Czech lands since first arriving in Prague as a graduate student in 1977. Hugh will be on the September 7 departure.
Special Highlights
Explore the faithfully rebuilt Old Town of Warsaw, now a World Heritage site.
Visit the Wieliczka Salt Mines, a World Heritage site, and admire the intriguing salt sculptures created by mine workers and contemporary artists.
Discover Budapest’s cultural, historical, and architectural heritage, including a curator-led tour of the prestigious Museum of Fine Arts.
Follow in the footsteps of Habsburg monarchs at Vienna’s grand Schönbrunn Palace, and enjoy a classical music performance.
Explore Prague’s many architectural gems, including the colorful Old Town, Charles Bridge, and the Lobkowicz Museum at Prague Castle.
Don't forget to check out our photo slide show to glimpse the excitement of this special program!
View photos by clicking "Next Photo" at top of page!
World Heritage Sites
This tour features the following World Heritage sites:
Auschwitz Birkenau, Poland
Krakow's Historic Center, Poland
Historic Center of Warsaw, Poland
The Salt Mines in Wieliczka, Poland
The Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue, in Budapest, Hungary