16 DAY | Eastern Express

EEGERL-7

This tour visits: Italy, Vatican City, Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Netherlands Join us on a different route from Rome to London as we journey through the hot new travel destinations of Eastern Europe. After witnessing timeless classics in Venice and Rome, we take the road less toured and explore Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian Coast, Slovenia’s natural charms and the Gothic glories of Prague. As we head west we will get to grips with funky Berlin and join the party in lively Amsterdam. Yet there is so much else to experience along this route and you’ll want to do all of it; making this tour of Europe one you’re unlikely to forget anytime soon.

The Bucket List

More Inclusions

Walking tour of Prague

15 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 8 dinners

Driving tour of Berlin

10 nights in hostels, 3 nights in bungalows at European

Visit former concentration camp Mauthausen

campsites & 2 nights in an Austrian Gasthof

Dutch cheese and clogs demonstration

English Channel crossing

Pag Island getaway

Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi

Farewell canal dinner cruise in Amsterdam

Guided tours of all major cities Awesome Trip Leader + Driver + On-Site Chefs

Trip Itinerary Day 1 - Rome, Italy Meet with the group today and create the ultimate Roman Holiday. If you arrive early, shop ‘til you drop on Via Condotti, head to Capitoline Hill for awesome views of the Roman Forum and Colosseum or just kick back in Piazza Navona. Get excited, it’s about to be one heck of a trip. Meals: -Dinner

Day 2 - Rome to Venice including Vatican City visit Say buongiorno to Venice from across the lagoon as we check into our accommodation, have an Eat Pray Love-worthy relationship with an irresistible Italian (meal) and get pumped for living out your own version of The Italian Job tomorrow. Meals: -Breakfast -Dinner Optional activities: -Vatican City tour

Day 3 - Venice You know it as the floating city, but this place is actually sinking (slowly). Check out St. Mark's Square, Accademia Bridge and a who's who of Venice's usual suspects on a guided walking tour then jump on a vaporetto and explore the Grand Canal. Also on the schedule: an optional gondola ride through the maze of marble bridges and gelato shops we call Venice. Throw away your map in the afternoon and try to find the world's most epic little bookshop; Libreria Acqua Alta, or just go on a mission to find the perfect gelato. Included today: -Walking tour of Venice -Vaporetto ride on the Grand Canal Meals: -Breakfast -Dinner Optional activities: -Gondola ride on the Grand Canal

Day 4 - Venice to Pag Island, Croatia via Postjana Caves, Slovenia Check out Postojna Caves and karst your eye out for stalagmites on the way to one of Croatia's coolest today. Set your watch to island time. Included today: -Visit to Postojna en route

Optional activities: -Entry to Postojna Caves Meals: -Breakfast -Lunch -Dinner

Day 5 - Pag Island Two whole days to relax and chill out in the sun. The water is warm, the food is awesome. Then later on, well, let's just say this island knows how to party. Meals: -Breakfast

Day 6 - Pag Island Eat, sleep, party, repeat. Meals: -Breakfast

Day 7 - Pag Island to Ljubljana, Slovenia Shoot one last longing look at Pag before arriving in Ljubljana (lyoob-lya-nah) – capital of Slovenia. Tonight, band together with your fellow #Topdeckers and see the city come alive on an optional nightlife tour. Meals: -Breakfast

Optional activities -Ljubljana at Night Tour

Day 8 - Ljubljana to Austrian Alps, Austria Lake Bled is one of those names that keep popping up in all those lists of amazing places; find out why as we climb the Austrian Alps to the Sound of Music. Take in the mountain air by foot, bike or goat (if you can get them to stand still long enough). With all the canyoning or mountain biking potential in these mountains, dinner will be calorie neutral. Included today: -Visit to Lake Bled en route to the Austrian Alps Meals: -Breakfast -Dinner

Day 9 - Austrian Alps The snow-capped hills (Alps, really) are alive with the sound of carving. The mountains have shaped virtually all aspects of life here. (Also: Toblerone.) Skydive. Tandem paraglide. Go canyoning. Repeat. Or just sit and stare at the storybook landscape like a lovesick puppy. Kirchdorf does that to people. You haven't really been there without a few sneaky selfies, right? Say edelweiss! Meals: -Breakfast -Lunch Optional activities: -Skydiving -Tandem paragliding -Bike tour -Canyoning -Griesner Alm mountain-side dinner

Day 10 - Austrian Alps to Prague, Czech Republic Begin the day with a sobering visit to the former concentration camp Mauthausen, then set the sat nav for the gothic city. Guinness World Record-setting (and Disney-inspiring) castle spires are Prague's way of welcoming weary travellers. Fuel up on trdelník (pastry deliciousness) before a walking tour amongst the spires and cobblestone streets. Sus out the castle deemed worthy by Guinness World Records as being the largest ancient castle in the world, cross medieval Charles Bridge and watch 'Death' toll the hour on an astronomical clock that's over 600 years old. Included today: -Visit former concentration camp Mauthausen -Prague walking tour Meals: -Breakfast -Lunch -Dinner

Day 11 - Prague Another free day for the win. Channel your inner bohemian and seek out the John Lennon wall, then soak up some more Czech history at the National or Communist Museum or get a taste of the quirky local culture at a marionette puppet opera (you gotta see it to believe it). Snap a selfie at Prague's own Eiffel Tower, visit a miniatures museum, eat roast pork from one of the street vendors lining Old Town Square and drink beer. Really. Good. Beer. Meals: -Breakfast Optional activities: -Beer Tasting

Day 12 - Prague to Berlin, Germany Get acquainted with 800 year-old Dresden – a city virtually destroyed in WWII and then rebuilt – and ogle the Frauenkirche before making your beard all the more ironic in Berlin. Prep yourself for currywurst, pilsner and more hipsters per capita than anywhere else. We'll drive you around to see (what's left of) the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag building before making your food baby sing with a hearty German meal. Included today: -Walking tour of Dresden -Driving tour of Berlin Meals: -Breakfast -Dinner

Day 13 - Berlin Shake off last night with a wander around the German capital. Optional: Third Reich walking tour and local insight into what the city was like under Nazi rule during World War II. Hackescher Markt is a hit for lunch. Tonight: hit the hotspots on an optional Berlin Alternative Tour and Nightlife tour. Meals: -Breakfast Optional activities: -Third Reich walking tour -Berlin Alternative Tour and Nightlife tour

Day 14 - Berlin to Amsterdam, Netherlands Cheese lovers, rejoice. Your next stop is a local Dutch farm to see how cheddar (and clogs) gets made. Next: Amsterdam, mayo-dipped fries and red lights. Get your bearings on a walking tour of the vibrant capital and see the Dam Square, Royal Palace and National Monument. Then: explore all that this notoriously liberal city has to offer. Included today: -Dutch cheese and clogs demonstration -Walking tour of Amsterdam Meals: -Breakfast

Day 15 - Amsterdam Join the 881,000 bicycles and get local on a city bike tour of Amsterdam's iconic canals, bridges and parks. Culture fiends, delve deeper with a visit to the Anne Frank House, Van Gogh or Rijksmuseum. Still thirsty for more? Check out the Heineken Experience for an interactive visit and tasting at the brewery. Top it off with a dinner cruise on the canal. Included today:

-Canal dinner cruise Meals: -Breakfast -Dinner Optional activities: -Amsterdam bike tour

Day 16 - Amsterdam to London, England After all the Amster-damage has been done and dusted, it’s time to hit the road and make tracks to ol’ Blighty. Soak up all the happy group vibes you can possibly handle – this is your last coach ride with the gang. #sadface. Meals: -Breakfast

Accommodation   Hostel Plus* trips host our most eclectic types of accommodation. While modern hostels make up the majority of your overnighters you could also stay in hotels (free upgrade – yeah!) or bungalows. The ‘More Inclusions’ section details what type of accommodation will be used for overnight stops on your trip. The number of people to a room on Hostel Plus trips will vary. For hostels you will have multi-share rooms and share with between 3 and 5 others while in hotels there will be twin or triple-shares (and the odd quad-room). Bungalows can be up to 4 people to a room. Please note: When staying on a Hostel Plus trip, multi-share accommodation follows a single-sex policy. *New name, same great experience - From May 2016 we're renaming our Trip Style Club to Hostel Plus. Travellers will enjoy the same great experience, just under a new name.  

Optional Activities On all trips we have arranged extra activities that we think will enhance your travel experience, but you have a choice as to whether or not you will participate. These are not included in the cost of your trip. They are usually organised on a group participation basis and should be taken into consideration when budgeting your spending money. None of the Optional Activities on your trip are operated by Topdeck, nor do they form part of your contract with Topdeck for your trip. Topdeck arranges the activity as an agent of the local supplier. Should you participate in any Optional Activities your contract will be with the local supplier and their conditions will apply.

Please note: while we make every effort to keep these prices as accurate and up-to-date as possible, they are subject to change and in rare circumstances the actual price may vary slightly to what is published here. Italy - Rome Vatican tour €40 Italy - Venice Personalised group shirts between €19 and €30 and hoodies Gondola ride €20 Slovenia – Postojna Postojna Caves €23.90 Slovenia - Ljubljana Ljubljana at Night Tour €15 Germany - Berlin Third Reich walking tour €10 Berlin Alternative Tour €18  and Nightlife Tour Austria - Kirchdorf - Tyrol Canyoning half-day €65 plus €15 deposit Tandem Paragliding €129 plus €24 deposit Skydiving €249 plus €40 deposit Mountain biking half-day €12 Mountain biking full-day €16 Greisner Alm Dinner €23 Czech Republic - Prague Beer Tasting 700 CZK Netherlands - Amsterdam Bike tour €14"

Meals Included Meals Your included meals are detailed in the 'More Inclusions' section of this document. Breakfasts are included every day (except on the first morning). Included meals will be a combination of those prepared by Topdeck On-Site Chefs, local restaurants and places in which we stay. If you have any dietary requirements we will make every effort to cater to your specific needs as long as you advise your travel agent or Topdeck Trip Consultant when you book, or make note of this in the Topdeck app when you check in (refer below). But please be aware that although we will do everything in our power to arrange it, we cannot guarantee that every restaurant we use will be able to cater to all dietary needs, particularly in Eastern Europe. We also cannot cater for tastes or dislikes, as most of our included evening meals feature a set

menu.  

No Tip Necessary Your Topdeck crew never expect tips themselves and will not ask for any; that’s not what friends do! We also know how much tipping can cost you. So go ahead, spoil yourself with the money you will save by travelling with Topdeck (just don’t forget Mum’s souvenir).

Topdeck Travel App Please note the Topdeck App is not currently available in Asia.  Our travel app has landed! With a range of awesome features including a Currency Converter, Budget Tracker, Check-In tool and Social Timeline you can plan your trip like a pro. Think of it like your very own Topdeck Trip Leader, always on call with the latest info, weather, maps and city guides to give you the trip of a lifetime, all in the palm of your hand. Please note: The Topdeck Travel App should only be downloaded once you have booked onto your trip. You will not be able to log in unless you have a Topdeck Booking Reference Number. Get it for iPhone Get it for Android

Other Information Finances Changing Money ATMs/cashpoints are available all over Europe and are the safest and easiest way to access money. Major credit cards are also accepted and we recommend you bring yours along in case you see something special that you hadn't budgeted for. Some nationals may have access to pre-paid cards that you can use at any ATM just like a debit card that you may want to consider as a viable alternative or addition to your bank card. We recommend that you change approximately €100 in cash before departure and approximately 30 Swiss francs (if your trip goes through Switzerland). This will cover you for spending money until you have the chance to change more or find an ATM on the ground. Please note credit cards cannot be used to pay for Optional Activities.

Spending Money Based on experience, we recommend at least €50 – €60 per day. This is to cover daily expenses including sightseeing, small souvenir shopping and non-included meals.

Remember, this is a rough figure only and spending habits vary greatly between individuals according to their budget and habits!

Tipping Although you may not be accustomed to tipping at home, in many European countries it is customary. In some countries a service charge may be added to your bill, in other countries it is usual to round the bill up to the nearest Euro or to leave an additional amount of between 5% and 10%. Your Trip Leader will be able to advise you further on the tipping customs in the countries you visit. Topdeck Top Tip: it is a really good idea to hide away somewhere a small amount of cash and/or extra card; this will really come in handy in the unlikely event that you lose your wallet or any other kind of emergency.

European Currencies While the predominant currency throughout Europe is the euro (€), there are still many European countries that sit outside the Eurozone for which you will need to use local currency (or rely on your credit/debit cards). It is generally always possible to exchange money into local currency after arriving in the country, but the easiest way is to make a withdrawal from a local ATM/cashpoint. Below is a list of all the other currencies you will use on your trip: Croatia - Kuna (HRK) Czech Republic - Koruna (Crown) (CZK)

Insurance It is compulsory for all passengers to take out comprehensive travel insurance before the trip departs covering cancellation, medical expenses including repatriation, loss or damage to baggage and personal belongings, money and personal liability. For more information go to www.topdeck.travel/travel-insurance. You must bring a copy of your travel insurance policy with you on the trip. Details of your policy must be uploaded into the Topdeck app before your trips departs, otherwise they will be requested by your Trip Leader on Day One

Passports and Visas Please make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after the last day of your trip. Some countries will refuse entry if there is not at least six months validity remaining on your passport after your departure date from their country. Depending on your nationality, you may require a visa to enter certain countries. It is your responsibility to obtain these prior to the departure of this trip. You can consult the government websites of the countries in which you will be travelling or your own government’s website to determine which visas you will require. We also have a visa chart on our website listing the visas required by some nationalities travelling on our trips. To check go to www.topdeck.travel/visas. Remember that some visas can take up to six weeks to acquire, so don’t leave it until the last minute. Also bear in mind that the validity of the visa often runs from the date of issue rather than date of entry into the country. Please check with the appropriate embassies prior to departure as requirements do change periodically.

Transport

Coach Time We try to spend as little time on the coach as possible so that you have more time to enjoy the places you visit. But do please remember that Europe is a large continent and it takes time to get around! On driving days between cities you will be on the coach during the day, stopping off to visit places of interest where possible. Strict driving rules apply in Europe that limit the maximum number of hours your Driver can drive each day. They also limit the maximum number of days that can be driven before a day off must be taken. We have worked hard to make sure this does not affect your trip, but in some cities it means we will use public transport while your Driver has a well-earned rest day. The cost for this is included in your trip price and your Trip Leader will show you how to get around town as the locals do! Please note: this doesn't cover your own local transport while in a city, only when the coach is not in operation Wi-Fi Free Wi-Fi is available for all passengers in Europe, this includes both coach and sailing trips. For more information about our Wi-Fi allowance and availability per country, please head to our website www.topdeck.travel/wi-fi.

Please note: Wi-Fi charges are subject to change. If you feel necessary, please enquire with us to ensure your particular coach has Wi-Fi availability.

Health and Safety We want to make sure you’re having the time of your life while travelling with us. Therefore, if you suffer from any kind of medical condition or allergies, we will need to know at the time of booking, or at least six weeks prior to the departure of your trip. If you require regular medication, you must have a sufficient supply before your trip departs, as it may be difficult to obtain while travelling. You must be able to administer your own medication, as Topdeck Road Crew will not be able to administer it, and there are no guarantees that there will be anyone with first aid training on board.

Vaccinations There are currently no compulsory vaccinations required for any of the countries this trip visits. Please reconfirm this with your GP or health professional before you leave as conditions can change.

General Information Public toilets In most European countries you can expect to pay a small amount to use public toilets at service stations and in city centres. It is a common practice in Europe and should be regarded as a form of ‘tipping’, as the money goes to the people who clean and/or maintain the facilities. It is very rare that public toilets do not supply toilet paper, but it may be useful to carry a pack of tissues with you.

Power All European countries (with the sole exception of the United Kingdom) use a CEE7/16 standard round, two-prong plug and a single adaptor will work in all countries.

Voltage Throughout Europe the voltage is a uniform 220v. If the voltage is the same or similar in your home country your appliance will comply. If you have a 110v appliance you will need to use a transformer to avoid damaging your appliance.

In Cases of Emergency While we hope you never have to use it, if for any reason you need to contact someone from Topdeck, whether it be that you have missed a trip departure meeting, have become separated from your trip on the road or any other unforeseeable problem, the following options are available to you.

London Office Your best recourse to assistance during the day is to call our team between 8am-9pm Monday to Friday and 9.30am-4pm on Saturdays UK time. Tel: +44 (0)20 8987 3305

Emergency Contact If you need to contact Topdeck outside of the above hours the following number is available: Mobile: +(44) 7792 775 415 Please remember if it is a genuine emergency, we of course want you to call us; however, if it can wait until the next day, we ask that you call during our office hours.

What to Bring We recommend soft bags, suitcases or frameless backpacks, plus a small day pack or carry bag. No external framed bags please, as they damage other bags on the coach. Please limit your luggage to a maximum of 20kg. Luggage must not exceed dimensions of 70cm in height, 45cm in width and 25cm in depth. Only one piece of luggage is allowed. Please note that due to space and weight restrictions on our coaches, passengers with too much luggage on departure morning may be told that they cannot take their entire luggage with them. Luggage storage facilities are usually available at the departure point, if they are not available you will have to make your own arrangements to have it stored or shipped home. Any luggage left behind will be at your own risk and you will be required to pay any costs incurred.

Sleeping Bags A sleeping bag will not be required for your trip.

Suggested Packing List The golden rule is to travel as light as you can. Only bring what you really need and leave plenty of space for things you might want to buy. Don't forget you will have to carry your bag around yourself before and after the trip, as well as in and out of where you’re staying while on your trip! The following is a suggested clothing list only, based on our experience: 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes 1 pair of smart casual shoes 1 pair thongs/jandals/flip-flops

2 pairs jeans/trousers 2 pairs shorts/skirts 4 shirts/t-shirts 2 sweaters/jumpers Smart casual evening wear 1 rainproof jacket 1 warm jacket Underwear and socks! Other things to pack: Swimwear Towel Toiletries Hat and Sunscreen Basic medical kit (including plasters, aspirin etc.) Washing powder Insect repellent Conversion plug Optionals to consider: Sewing kit Pillow case Torch Travel pillow Please note: entry into some religious sites, such as cathedrals and mosques, requires clothing to cover the knees, chest and shoulders.

Final Checklist Passport (with visas if required!) Airline tickets (where applicable) Insurance Policy (you must bring these details with you) Camera; batteries; chargers; conversion plug That’s it – you’re now ready for your trip of a lifetime! If you have any further questions feel free to give our team a shout at any time. Happy travels!