Prague, Dresden, and the Castles of Bohemia: A Spectacular Cruise on the Elbe and Vltava Rivers

We’ll spend the morning cruising the Vltava to Stechovice. Nestled in peaceful surroundings, the Vltava River reveals its bucolic landscapes and natural beauty. Once known for its gold mines, Stechovice is now famous for its traditional handmade pottery. In the afternoon, join us for the excursion proposed for both packages to Konopiste Castle. Located in an idyllic setting, this 13th-century fortress, entirely renovated in the 18th century, was the Habsburg's hunting lodge. In addition to its sumptuously decorated apartments, the castle is home to an impressive collection of medieval weapons and armor that once belonged to Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria. The castle was his last abode prior to his assassination in Sarajevo in 1914. Enjoy an evening of entertainment on board.

We'll cruise on the beautiful Vltava River to the Slapy dam. We’ll follow the winding river lined with hillsides on each bank and catch glimpses of castles in romantic, restful landscapes so typical of central Bohemia. The Slapy Reservoir is a popular vacation spot for residents of Prague, offering water sports and numerous recreational activities. We’ll return to Prague at the end of the afternoon.

Join us this morning for an excursion for both packages: Tour the Old Town in Prague. Stare Mesto dates back more than 1,000 years and is one of the most important places in Bohemian history. As you stroll through the city’s narrow streets, you’ll discover many points of interest, including the Jewish quarter, the old town hall and its famous astronomical clock, the Gothic church of Our Lady before Tyn, and the Charles Bridge. Lunch on board. In the afternoon, join us for an excursion proposed for both packages: Guided tour of the Prague Castle district. Palaces, churches, and convents stand harmoniously in the vicinity of the castle, sitting high on a hill watching over the city. We’ll discover St. Vitus Cathedral, the largest and most important church in the country and one of the most prestigious Gothic cathedrals in Europe; the Old Royal Palace; and the Golden Lane, named after the goldsmiths that thrived there during the 17th century. This evening there will be traditional entertainment on board.

We’ll spend the morning cruising to Melnik, at the confluence of the Elbe. Lunch on board. This afternoon, join us for the excursion proposed for both packages: Tour of Nelahozeves Castle and the birth house of Antonin Dvorak. We’ll visit one of the most beautiful Renaissance castles in Bohemia that was home to 23 different Bohemian queens and princesses. The castle walls are elaborately adorned with Italian-style stucco and wall paintings depicting scenes from the Old Testament and Greek mythology. It is also home to a rich, private collection of furniture and paintings—including works by Rubens, Velazquez, and many others—all belonging to the Lobkowicz family, the oldest and most eminent Bohemian noble family. We’ll discover the luxurious lifestyle of the Bohemian nobility during the Baroque period. At the end of our tour, there will be a tasting of a selection of wines from the castle’s vineyard. Nelahozeves is the birthplace of Antonin Dvorak. During our visit to the house in which he was born, we’ll discover the life and works of one of the greatest composers of the 19th century, the man who composed the famous “New World Symphony.” The remainder of the evening is at leisure.

Join us for the excursion proposed for both packages: Full-day excursion to Dresden, a fantastic city known as the “Florence of the Elbe.” A relatively recent city with Slavic origin, Dresden became the capital of the Margravate of Meissen in the 13th century and the seat of the Dukes of Saxony in the 15th century. Dresden offers a wide variety of attractions, including magnificent promenades on the bank of the Elbe, fascinating museums, monuments, and charming details. We’ll have lunch in a local restaurant. In the afternoon, a guided tour of the Royal Palace, the former residence of the Saxon Dukes and Electors and the Kings of Saxony. Today, we can revel in the splendor of its architecture and its collections, including the historic Green Vault, which contains the largest collection of treasures in Europe. After our excursion, we’ll return to Prague by bus. Tonight is our festive gala evening.

Enjoy one last buffet breakfast on board before disembarking at 9:00 a.m. End of our services.

• Your cruise with all meals from dinner the first evening to breakfast on the final day
• All onboard beverages included (except for drinks from our special lists)
• Double-occupancy, climate-controlled cabin with shower in bathroom
• Assistance from our onboard multi-lingual host/hostess
• Welcome cocktail
• Gala dinner
• Onboard entertainment
• Travel assistance and repatriation insurance
• All port fees
• Prepaid classic sightseeing package.

• Drinks from our special wine list, or drinks ordered during excursions or transfers
• Cancellation and baggage insurance
• Optional excursions (must be reserved and paid for on board or at travel agency)
• Transfers/travel to and from departure/arrival points
• Personal expenses.