Scandinavia with Eastern Europe

Today we enjoy Copenhagen city, we visit Christiansburg palace- a palace and government building. It is the seat of the Danish Parliament, the Danish Prime Minister's Office, and the Supreme Court of Denmark.
Later in the orientation tour we see Renaissance Stock Exchange- also known as Børsbygningen, a 17th-century stock exchange in the centre of Copenhagen, followed by a famous statue of the Little Mermaid- a bronze statue by Edvard Eriksen, depicting a mermaid becoming human. Later we embark on an overnight cruise to Oslo.

Today morning we arrive at Oslo – capital of Norway, a cosmopolitan city with an abundance of world-class architecture and museums. Upon arrival we explore Oslo city, we visit Vigeland Sculpture Park- the largest sculpture park in the world by a single artist, boasting over 200 pieces by Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland, Holmenkollen Ski Museum and its observation deck - World's oldest ski museum, it represents more than 4,000 years of skiing history, Norwegian polar exploration artefacts and an exhibition on snowboarding and modern skiing. The observation deck on top of the jump tower offers panoramic views of Oslo, Kon Tiki Museum- It houses vessels and maps from the Kon-Tiki expedition. Later we take a photo stop at Opera House- home of the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet, and the national opera theatre in Norway.

Today we travel on the scenic route to Geilo – Upon arrival we have free time to relax and explore the surroundings.

Today we experience the essence of Norway through Norway in a nutshell tour. In the morning we take a train from Geilo to Myrdal- Myrdal is a mountain railway station and junction, located on the Bergen Line. It is also the upper terminal of the Flåm Line local railway. From Myrdal we change our train and proceed to Flam- one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. This train will take us through some of the most beautiful mountain scenery, valleys and countless waterfalls. Later we proceed to Gudvangen by ferry and visit Sogne Fjord - King of the Fjords, is the largest and deepest fjord in Norway. Further we proceed to Bergen – known as the city with seven mountains. Upon arrival we explore Bergen city, we travel by a Funicular Tram ride to Mt. Floyen and enjoy the panoramic views of the Bergen city from the top.

Today we fly to Stockholm – the capital of Sweden combines modern attractions with historic charm. Upon arrival we visit Sky View Globe Arenas - world’s largest spherical building. From here we enjoy an amazing view of Stockholm city.

Today we explore Stockholm city, we visit Magnificent Town Hall- the building of Municipal Council which houses offices, conference rooms, ceremonial halls, and luxury restaurants, Royal Palace- the official residence of His Majesty the King of Sweden, with over 600 rooms. The palace dates back to the 18th century and is one of the most interesting historic buildings in Stockholm, Vasa Ship museum- Vasa is the only preserved seventeenth-century ship in the world and a unique art treasure. More than 95 percent of the ship is original, and it is decorated with hundreds of carved sculptures, Ice Bar- a magical fairy tale adventure with the wondrous surroundings of snow and ice. In the evening we embark on an overnight cruise to Tallinn- capital city of Estonia.

Today morning we arrive at Tallinn. Upon arrival we explore Tallinn city, we visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral- a Russian Orthodox Church. Later we walk through the city and see Toompea Hill- a limestone hill in the central part of the city. Today Toompea is the centre of the Government of Estonia and the parliament house, Old Town- a UNESCO World Heritage Site and world’s most recognised landmarks, Parliament building- also known as Toompea Castle, it was built in 13th century. Today the castle is home to Estonian parliament, Dome church- also known as St. Mary's Cathedral, is the oldest church in Tallinn and Estonia, 15th century Luhike Jalg Gate- also known as the walls around Tallinn city. Later we return back to Helsinki. Upon arrival we enjoy Helsinki City, during the city orientation tour we see Modern Finlandia Hall- a dynamic, multipurpose venue located in the centre of Helsinki, City Hall- a central administrative building of Helsinki, Parliament House- the official location of the governing body of Finland, Presidential Palace- the official residence of the President, although today it is used primarily for presidential functions and receptions, the Monumental railroad station- one of the most visited site in the city, Lutheran Cathedral- the symbol of Helsinki. The church was originally built from 1830-1852 as a tribute to the Grand Duke of Finland, Olympic Stadium- built in 1938. Olympic Games were held here in 1952. Today it hosts both national and international sporting events and outdoor concerts, Sibelius monument- dedicated to the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius, Market Square- the most famous market in Finland, it has been a center of trade for hundreds of years.

Today we fly to Warsaw – capital of Poland, was the last residence of the Polish royalty and the place where the 1944 uprising happened. Upon arrival, we enjoy Warsaw city, during the city orientation tour we see Old Town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the oldest part of Warsaw, with cobblestone alleys and medieval buildings reconstructed after WWII, Warsaw Ghetto – it was the largest of all the Jewish ghettos in German-occupied Europe during World War II, the sites evoked in Polanski's 'The Pianist', and the Palace of Culture and Science - a ‘gift of friendship’ from the Soviet Union, it was completed in 1955 and is, at 237m high, the tallest building in Poland.

Today we visit the Baroque Wilanow Palace – also known as the ‘Polish Versailles’, was built as a home for king John III Sobieski during the late 17th century. Later we proceed to Krakow – the city of salt mines, is the second largest and one of the oldest cities in Poland.

Today we explore Krakow city, we see Royal Castle- also known as Wawel Castle. It was built in 14th century and then for centuries was the residence of the kings of Poland, St. Mary's Basilica – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a roman catholic church. Followed by a visit to Auschwitz concentration camp - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was a complex of over 40 concentration and extermination camps built and operated by Nazi Germany in occupied Poland during World War II and the Holocaust. Later we visit the Salt mine of Wieliczka – a UNESCO world Heritage site, it dates back to medieval times and has a history of around 9 centuries of salt exploitation.

Today we proceed to Berlin - the capital and the largest city of Germany, its former glory ended in 1945, but the city survived the destruction of World War II and was rebuilt to show amazing economic and cultural growth.

Today we explore Berlin city, we see magnificent Berlin Cathedral – the Evangelical Supreme Parish and Collegiate Church with a striking main altar made of white marble and onyx, City Hall – the home to the governing mayor, Berlin Victory Column – an iconic sight built to commemorate the Prussian victories in the unification wars in 1864, Monument Brandenburg Gate – a former symbol of German - German divide during the Cold War, is now a national symbol of reunification, freedom, peace and unity, Unter den Linden – a boulevard that runs from the City Palace to Brandenburg Gate named after the linden trees that line the sidewalks, Check Point Charlie – the best-known border crossing between East and West Berlin during the Cold War and is also a setting for many thrillers and spy novels of Ian Fleming’s James Bond stories, German State Opera House – the first freestanding theatre in Germany built in 1741 and Reichstag Building – an internationally recognisable symbol of democracy and the current home of the German Parliament. Later we visit Berlin Wall – An enduring symbol of the cold war, a 140 km long concrete barrier was built in 1961 to prevent access to East Berlin and East Germany people, eventually this wall was brought down in 1990 during German reunification, followed by a visit to Berlin Wall Museum – to know story of the Berlin Wall through the eyes of the people whose lives were directly affected by it and also hear about people who were given only a few hours’ notice to leave their homes when the Wall was built. In the afternoon we proceed to Potsdam - The capital and largest city of the German federal state of Brandenburg which was a residence of the Prussian kings and the German Kaiser until 1918. Upon arrival we explore Potsdam city, we see Cecilienhof Palace - a palace in Potsdam, built in the layout of an English Tudor manor house and it is the site of the famous 1945 conference between the United States, Soviet Union, and United Kingdom. Later we take a walk through City Palace - the second official residence of the margraves and electors of Brandenburg, later kings in Prussia and German emperors, St. Nicolas Church - one of the most significant examples of architecture of German classicism, Old town hall and Dutch quarter - built of red bricks in the Dutch style.

Today we proceed to Dresden - also called ‘Florence at the Elbe’. Upon arrival we explore Dresden city, we see Semper Opera- one of the most beautiful and prestigious opera houses in the world, Dresden cathedral- a symbol of the suffering of German civilians after its destruction in World War II bombing and now of reconciliation. Later we proceed to Prague – also known as the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’, is the capital of Czech Republic.

Today we explore Prague city, we see Hradcany Castle - one of the biggest caste in the world. Built in 9th century and is the official office of the President of the Czech Republic, Cathedral of St. Vitus - a Roman Catholic metropolitan cathedral in Prague and is the seat of the Archbishop of Prague, Astronomical Clock - the most striking aspects of the clock are the moving 12 Apostles sculptures carved out of wood, Old Town Square - an historic square in the Old Town quarter of Prague, Charles Bridge - a stone Gothic bridge that crosses Vltava river and connects the Old Town and Lesser Town. In the evening we enjoy Cruise on the river Vltava and admire the spectacular view of Prague.

Today we proceed to Bratislava – The Capital of the Slovak Republic. Also referred to as the Beauty on the Danube. during the orientation tour we see Old Town - a historic centre of Bratislava with cobbled streets, colourful pastel buildings and narrow pathways, St Martins Cathedral - Gothic church from the 15th century and the former coronation church, St Michael Tower- also known as Michael's Gate, is the only city gate that has been preserved of the medieval fortifications and ranks among the oldest town buildings. Later we drive through Most SNP - a road bridge over the river Danube. Commonly referred to as the UFO Bridge. Further we proceed to Budapest – also called the 'Little Paris' of Europe. Upon arrival we enjoy Danube river cruise and admire the beauty of the Danube River - the magnificent scenic divider and connector of Buda and Pest.

Today we explore Budapest city, we see Heroes' Square – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the main squares in Budapest, stands in honour and memory of the great leaders in Hungary's history, Fishermen's Bastion - a fairy-tale castle on the Buda side of the city, is a lookout point which offers stunning panorama of Budapest, the historic Matthias Church – a Roman Catholic church, Gellert hill – a 235 m high hill overlooking the Danube River, Parliament house – a magnificent example of Neo-Gothic architecture, is the seat of the National Assembly of Hungary, Royal palace – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also known as the Buda Castle, is the historical castle and palace complex of the Hungarian kings, the famous chain bridge on the Danube River - first permanent suspension bridge which connected the twin cities Buda and Pest. In the evening we have free time for shopping at Central Market Hall and Vaci Street.

Today we proceed to Bled - an alpine lake with the only island in Slovenia, also called as 'Alpine Pearl'. Upon arrival we visit the Bled Castle – a medieval castle built on a precipice above the city of Bled, overlooking Lake Bled. Later we enjoy a traditional wooden boat ride ‘Pletnas’ to visit the tiny island in the middle of Lake Bled. Here we visit the glorious 17th century Baroque Church of the Assumption- also known as The Church of Mary the Queen. Further we proceed to Ljubljana – capital of Slovenia, is one of the smallest European capitals. Upon arrival we enjoy walking tour of Ljubljana, we see Preseren square – the central square in Ljubljana, Triple Bridge – a group of three bridges across the Ljubljanica River, it connects the Ljubljana's historic old town on one bank and the modern city of Ljubljana, Central market – an open air market, Town hall - seat of the Municipality of Ljubljana, Dragon Bridge – a road bridge, built across the Ljubljana River and adorned with dragon statues. Further we take a funicular ride and enjoy a beautiful view of the city from the top.

Today we proceed to visit Postojna Caves - The caves were created by the Pivka River. It is an intricate network of tunnels decorated by stalagmites and other natural features which are shaped by tiny droplets over millions of years. Upon arrival we take a train to the magical underground world. Postojna Cave is the only karst cave with a railway, which was built more than 140 years ago. Later we proceed to Plitvice National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to 16 lakes connected by a series of waterfalls and surrounded by close-packed woodland.

Today early morning we explore Plitvice National Park with a choice of numerous walking trails and hikes, as you enjoy the sight of thousands of sparkling water falls, Lakes and various viewpoints. Later we proceed to Zadar – a city on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, which is known for the Roman and Venetian ruins, also for the unique modern wonders. Upon arrival we visit Zadar’s incredible Sea Organ - an architectural sound art object which plays music by way of sea waves and Sun Salutation - It consists of a 22-meter diameter circle, with photovoltaic solar modules underneath. Further we proceed to Mostar - a city in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, straddling the Neretva River.

Today we walk around Mostar city, we see Stari Most bridge - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a 16th century Ottoman-style bridge that spans the Neretva River and connects the two sides of the city. Further we proceed to Dubrovnik – a stunningly intact walled city on the Adriatic Seacoast. Upon arrival we walk through Dubrovnik’s Old Town exploring Game of Thrones shooting locations to see the sights of King’s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms. We see Onofrio’s Fountain- a Circular spring water fountain built in 1438 & decorated with ornate, carved-stone masks, Franciscan Monastery- one of the finest features of Dubrovnik’s architecture, Orlando's Column- it features armoured knight Orlando who according to the legend saved Dubrovnik from a 15 month long Saracen siege. Bell Tower- an important public and communal structure of the Renaissance features. Rector's Palace- that used to serve as the seat of the Rector, Church of St Blaise- One of the most beautiful sacral buildings in Dubrovnik, Fort Revelin and Minceta Tower. Later we visit Fort Lovrijenac - an 11th-century castle perched high above the sea, Blackwater Bay- which is featured in battle scenes of Game of Thrones, in the evening Sail on the same Karaka ship used in filming of Game of Thrones and the view of King’s landing from the sea side.

Today we proceed to Kotor - a fortified town on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast. Upon arrival we explore Kotor city, we see Square of Arms - Kotor’s largest city square, Bizanti Palace- a fine example of Renaissance architecture with elements of Baroque style. The building still bears the initials and coat of arms of one of its previous owners – Nikola Bizanti, Beskuca Palace - It was built in the middle of the eighteenth century, St Tryphon Cathedral - one of only two Roman Catholic Cathedrals in Montenegro, Ozana Church- represents a fine example of Romanesque architecture. Further we travel back to Dubrovnik.