We admire the rich interior of the caste and the stunning views of Karlstejn and the surrounding countryside. The rest of the day is reserved for exploring more of the Golden City on own hand.
Central European Panorama DAY 1 (SATURDAY): ARRIVAL PRAGUE Arrival in Prague, optional transfer to Hotel Park Inn Prague**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting.
June-August 2013, 8 days/7 nights: Dates: GCP10: 29.06-06.07.13 GCP12: 13.07-20.07.13 GCP14: 27.07-03.08.13 GCP15: 03.08-10.08.13 GCP16: 10.08-17.08.13 GCP17: 17.08-24.08.13
Package prices per person: EUR 695.00 (double occupancy) EUR 300.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • •
• • • •
4
7 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels 7 x buffet breakfast Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice Personalized welcome package Entrances to Old Town Hall in Prague, Wawel Castle in Krakow, Jasna Gora Monastery in Czestochowa and St. John’s Cathedral in Warsaw Service of German and English speaking tour escort on all tours Service of Italian and Spanish speaking tour escort on all tours Service of 1st class coach or 1st class minivan throughout the itinerary Portage at hotels
DAY 2 (SUNDAY): PRAGUE Prague has been a cultural centre of central Europe for the over 1,100 years of its existence and 20 years after the velvet revolution it is more than ever one of the most beautiful and exciting cities of the world. The morning sightseeing tour takes us to the Old Town with the Old Town Square surrounded by historical buildings such as the Old Town Hall with the famous Astronomical Clock, the imposing
St. Nicholas Church and Church of Our Lady, the Jewish Quarter and the Wenceslas Square. The afternoon offers an optional tour to the castle area with Prague Castle, residence of Czech Kings, St. Vitus Cathedral, the Golden Lane with fairy small houses, the Kings Road, the Lesser Town and the Charles Bridge. The evening is offering a fabulous dinner cruise on the Vltava-River. DAY 3 (MONDAY): PRAGUE The morning offers an optional half day tour to the impressive Bohemian Gothic Karlstejn Castle, located about 35 km southwest of Prague in the Karlstejn village.
DAY 4 (TUESDAY): PRAGUE-KRAKOW Today we head for Brno, the capital of Moravia and a charming historical town dominated by the Spilberk Royal Castle and the Peter and Paul Cathedral. After a lunch break we continue via the mining town of Ostrava into the picturesque mountainous South of Poland. We reach Krakow in the late afternoon and check-in at Hotel Park Inn Krakow****. DAY 5 (WEDNESDAY): KRAKOW For half a millennium Krakow was the royal capital of Poland and for centuries the city walls have guarded its traditions and secrets. The morning sightseeing tour takes us to the Old Town with the St. Mary’s Church, the Jagiellonian University, the Cloth Halls and Wawel with the Wawel Castle and the Wawel Cathedral. The afternoon offers an optional excursion to the famous Wieliczka Salt Mine, an amazing labyrinth of tunnels going down as far as 327 meters. The evening offers an optional Polish dinner at Restaurant Hawelka. DAY 6 (THURSDAY): KRAKOW-WARSAW We leave for Czestochowa, the spiritual heart of Poland, where we visit the Jasna Gora Monastery with the Black Madonna. Through the flat lowlaying plain of Central Poland we reach Warsaw in the early afternoon. Check-in at Hotel Novotel Centrum Warsaw**** or similar. DAY 7 (FRIDAY): WARSAW Warsaw is essentially a post-war city with a meticulously reconstructed Old Town. The morning sightseeing tour includes the Royal Route and the Old Town with the Royal Castle, St John’s Cathedral, the Old Town Market Square and the Barbican. In the afternoon is offered an optional excursion to the Royal Lazienki Park with the Palace on the Water. The evening offers an optional Polish dinner at Restaurant Podwale. DAY 8 (SATURDAY): WARSAW DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
Optional: •
• •
Transfer from airport to Hotel Park Inn Prague: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) 3 hours tour of the Prague Castle area: EUR 35.00 pp 4 hours excursion and dinner cruise at the VltavaRiver: EUR 55.00 pp
• • • •
4 hours excursion to Karlstejn Castle: EUR 50.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Wieliczka Salt Mine: EUR 60.00 pp Polish dinner at Restaurant Hawelka: EUR 40.00 pp 3-hour excursion to the Royal Lazienki Park with Palace on the Water: EUR 40.00 pp
• •
•
Polish dinner at Restaurant Podwale: EUR 40.00 pp Transfer from Hotel Novotel Centrum Warsaw to airport: EUR 30.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 50.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Half board at hotel (7 x 3 course dinner with coffee/ tea): EUR 175.00 pp
5
DAY 8 (TUESDAY): VILNIUS-RIGA Heading for Riga, the first stop is the Hills of Crosses, one of the most holy sites of Catholic Lithuania. After crossing into Latvia we soon reach the magnificent Rundale Palace, the former summer residence of the Duke of Courland. Following a guided tour of the palace we travel through the rolling hills of Southern Latvia to reach Riga late afternoon, check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Latvija**** or similar.
Polish and Baltic Jewels DAY 1 (TUESDAY): ARRIVAL KRAKOW Arrival in Krakow, optional transfer to Hotel Park Inn Krakow**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting.
July-September 2013, 13 days/12 nights: Dates: GPB10: 02.07-14.07.13 GPB12: 16.07-28.07.13 GPB14: 30.07-11.08.13 GPB15: 06.08-18.08.13 GPB16: 13.08-25.08.13 GPB17: 20.08-01.09.13
Package prices per person: EUR 1195.00 (double occupancy) EUR 550.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • •
• • • •
6
12 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels 12 x buffet breakfast Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice Personalized welcome package Entrances to Wawel Castle in Krakow, Jasna Gora Monastery in Czestochowa, St. John’s Cathedral in Warsaw, Old University in Vilnius, Rundale Palace, St. Peter’s Church and Tower in Riga and medieval Great Guild Hall in Tallinn Service of English and German speaking tour escort on all tours Service of Italian and Spanish speaking tour escort on all tours Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary Portage at hotels
DAY 2 (WEDNESDAY): KRAKOW For half a millennium Krakow was the royal capital of Poland and for centuries the city walls have guarded its traditions and secrets. The morning sightseeing tour takes us to the Old Town with the St. Mary’s Church, the Jagiellonian University, the Cloth Halls and Wawel with the Wawel Castle and the Wawel Cathedral. The afternoon offers an optional excursion to the famous Wieliczka Salt Mine, an amazing labyrinth of tunnels going down as far as 327 meters. The evening offer an optional Polish dinner at Restaurant Hawelka. DAY 3 (THURSDAY): KRAKOW-WARSAW We leave for Czestochowa, the spiritual heart of Poland, where we visit the Jasna Gora Monastery with the Black Madonna. Through the flat low-laying plain of Central Poland we reach Warsaw in the early afternoon. Check-in at Hotel Novotel Centrum Warsaw**** or similar. DAY 4 (FRIDAY): WARSAW Warsaw is essentially a post-war city with a meticulously reconstructed Old Town. The morning sightseeing tour includes the Royal Route and the Old Town with the Royal Castle, St John’s Cathedral, the Old Town Market Square and the Barbican. In the afternoon is offered an optional excursion to the Royal Lazienki Park with the Palace on the Water. The evening offers an optional Polish dinner at Restaurant Podwale. DAY 5 (SATURDAY): WARSAW-MRAGOWA We continue through the well forested North Poland into the Masurian Lakeland, a myriad of postglacial lakes representing some of the most beautiful nature in the whole of Poland. The afternoon excursion of the Masurian Lakeland takes us to the quaint town of Ketrzyn, to the beautiful Baroque church in Swieta Lipka and to the town of Gizycko, surrounded to all sides by the lakes. In the late afternoon we check-in at Hotel Mercure Mrongovia Resort & Spa**** or similar. DAY 6 (SUNDAY): MRAGOWA-VILNIUS Today we continue along the eastern fringe of the Masurian Lakeland with endless blue lakes and attractive resort
towns into Lithuania. We do a stop in Kaunas, the former capital of Lithuania, to admire the beautiful Old Town and the elegant white Baroque Town Hall before we arrive in the late afternoon to Vilnius. Check in at Hotel Radisson Blu Lietuva**** or similar. DAY 7 (MONDAY): VILNIUS Vilnius is known for its more than 1.200 medieval buildings and 48 churches. The morning sightseeing tour includes a panoramic tour of the city and a walking tour of the Old Town with Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, Peter and Paul Church, St. Anne’s Church, Old University and the Gates of Dawn. The afternoon offers an optional excursion to Trakai, the medieval capital of Lithuania, with the well preserved Trakai Castle, beautifully located on an island in Lake Galve. In the evening enjoy an optional folklore dinner at Restaurant Belmontas.
DAY 9 (WEDNESDAY): RIGA Before we get acquainted with Riga we have the possibility of discovering medieval Latvia. The optional tour for this morning takes us to the stunning scenery of the Gauja National Park and the town of Sigulda. We listen to the medieval Latvian legend of the Rose of Turaida, and see the ruins of the Episcopal Castle and of the Castle of the Knights of the Sword before we return to Riga. The afternoon offers an optional visit to the Ethnographical Open Air Museum, a spacious exposition of 18th century country life. The evening offers an optional organ concert at the Dome Cathedral. DAY 10 (THURSDAY): RIGA Riga founded in 1201 by the German bishop Albert is the largest of the 3 Baltic capitals and boasts a true kaleidoscope of various architectural styles. The walking tour of the Old Town includes Riga Castle, Dome Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, Swedish Gates, Three Brothers, Large and Small Guild House and the Freedom Monument. The afternoon is reserved for an optional visit to Jurmala, the vibrant Latvian sea resort, famous for its wooden architecture and sandy beaches. In the evening enjoy an optional Latvian dinner at the stylish Restaurant La Boheme. DAY 11 (FRIDAY): RIGA-TALLINN The tour continues along the coastal highway to the Estonian summer resort of Parnu. We do a short tour of the resort before we continue through the North Estonian land of forests and arrive in Tallinn early afternoon, check-in at the Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar. DAY 12 (SATURDAY): TALLINN Tallinn is a charming blend of medieval tranquillity and modern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place in the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenir markets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. The sightseeing tour takes us around the old medieval city walls and into the Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall and Great Guild Hall. In the afternoon an optional excursion is offered to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU, the award-winning new Estonian art museum, with its collections of classic and contemporary fine art. The evening offers an optional medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack. DAY 13 (SUNDAY): TALLINN DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
Optional: •
• • • •
Transfer airport to Hotel Park Inn Krakow: EUR 40.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 60.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) 4-hour excursion to Wieliczka Salt Mine: EUR 60.00 pp Polish dinner at Restaurant Hawelka: EUR 40.00 pp 3-hour excursion to the Royal Lazienki Park and visit to Palace on the Water: EUR 40.00 pp Polish dinner at Restaurant Podwale: EUR 40.00 pp
• • • • • • •
3-hour excursion to Trakai and visit to Trakai Castle: EUR 40.00 pp Folklore dinner at Restaurant Belmontas: EUR 40.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Gauja National Park: EUR 50.00 pp 3-hour excursion to the Open Air Museum: EUR 40.00 pp Organ concert at the Dome Cathedral: EUR 35.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Jurmala: EUR 45.00 pp Latvian dinner at Restaurant La Boheme: EUR 45.00 pp
• • •
•
3-hour excursion to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU: EUR 40.00 pp Medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack: EUR 40.00 pp Transfer Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia to airport: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Half board at hotels (12 x 3 course dinner with coffee/ tea): EUR 300.00 pp
7
Baltic Highlights DAY 1 (SUNDAY): ARRIVAL VILNIUS Arrival in Vilnius, optional transfer to Hotel Radisson Blu Lietuva**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting.
April-September 2013, 8 days/7 nights: Dates: GBH01: 28.04-05.05.13 GBH05: 26.05-02.06.13 GBH06: 02.06-09.06.13 GBH07: 09.06-16.06.13 GBH08: 16.06-23.06.13 GBH09: 23.06-30.06.13 GBH10: 30.06-07.07.13 GBH11: 07.07-14.07.13 GBH12: 14.07-21.07.13
GBH13: 21.07-28.07.13 GBH14: 28.07-04.08.13 GBH15: 04.08-11.08.13 GBH16: 11.08-18.08.13 GBH17: 18.08-25.08.13 GBH18: 25.08-01.09.13 GBH19: 01.09-08.09.13 GBH20: 08.09-15.09.13 GBH21: 15.09-22.09.13
Package prices per person: EUR 595.00 (double occupancy) EUR 250.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • •
• • • • • •
8
7 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels 7 x buffet breakfast Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice Personalised welcome package Entrances to Old University in Vilnius, Rundale Palace, St. Peter’s Church and Tower in Riga and medieval Great Guild Hall in Tallinn Service of English and German speaking tour escort on all tours Service of Italian and Spanish speaking tour escort on all tours Service of Portuguese speaking tour escort on tour: GBH09, GBH12 and GBH15 Service of French speaking tour escort on tour GBH11, GBH13 and GBH17 Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary Portage at hotels
DAY 2 (MONDAY): VILNIUS Vilnius is known for its more than 1.200 medieval buildings and 48 churches. The morning sightseeing tour includes a panoramic tour of the city and a walking tour of the Old Town with Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, Peter and Paul Church, St. Anne’s Church, Old University and the Gates of Dawn. The afternoon offers an optional excursion to Trakai, the medieval capital of Lithuania, with the well preserved Trakai Castle, beautifully located on an island in Lake Galve. In the evening enjoy an optional folklore dinner at Restaurant Belmontas. DAY 3 (TUESDAY): VILNIUS-RIGA Heading for Riga, the first stop is the Hills of Crosses, one of the most holy sites of Catholic Lithuania. After crossing into Latvia we soon reach the magnificent Rundale Palace, the former summer residence of the Duke of Courland. Following a guided tour of the palace we travel through the rolling hills of Southern Latvia to reach Riga late afternoon, check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Latvija**** or similar. DAY 4 (WEDNESDAY): RIGA Before we get acquainted with Riga we have the possibility of discovering medieval Latvia. The optional tour for this morning takes us to the stunning scenery of the Gauja National Park and the town of Sigulda. We listen to the medieval Latvian legend of the Rose of Turaida and see the ruins of the Episcopal Castle and of the Castle of the Knights of the Sword before we return to Riga. The afternoon offers an optional visit to the Ethnographical Open Air Museum, a spacious exposition of 18th century country life. The evening offers an optional organ concert at the Dome Cathedral.
Optional: •
• • • • •
Transfer airport to Hotel Radisson Blu Lietuva: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) 3-hour excursion to Trakai and visit to Trakai Castle: EUR 40.00 pp Folklore dinner at Restaurant Belmontas: EUR 40.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Gauja National Park: EUR 50.00 pp 3-hour excursion to the Open Air Museum: EUR 40.00 pp Organ concert at the Dome Cathedral: EUR 35.00 pp
Baltic Highlights Deluxe DAY 5 (THURSDAY): RIGA Riga, founded in 1201 by the German bishop Albert, is the largest of the three Baltic capitals and boasts a real kaleidoscope of architectural styles. The walking tour of the Old Town includes Riga Castle, the Dome Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, the Swedish Gate, the Three Brothers, the Large and Small Guilds and the Freedom Monument. The afternoon is reserved for an optional visit to Jurmala, the vibrant Latvian sea resort, famous for its wooden architecture and sandy beaches. In the evening enjoy an optional Latvian dinner at the stylish Restaurant La Boheme. DAY 6 (FRIDAY): RIGA-TALLINN The tour continues along the coastal highway to the Estonian summer resort of Parnu. We do a short tour of the resort before we continue through the North Estonian land of forests and arrive in Tallinn early afternoon, check-in at the Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar. DAY 7 (SATURDAY): TALLINN Tallinn is a charming blend of medieval tranquillity and modern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place in the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenir markets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. The sightseeing tour takes us around the old medieval city walls and into the Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall and Great Guild Hall. In the afternoon an optional excursion is offered to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU, the awardwinning new Estonian art museum, with its collections of classic and contemporary fine art. The evening offers an optional medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack. DAY 8 (SUNDAY): TALLINN DEPARTURE Optional transfer to airport.
DAY 1 (SUNDAY): ARRIVAL VILNIUS Arrival in Vilnius, optional transfer to Hotel Radisson Blu Astorija***** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting.
June-August 2013, 8 days/7 nights: Dates: GBD07: 09.06-16.06.13 GBD09: 23.06-30.06.13 GBD11: 07.07-14.07.13
Package prices per person: EUR 695.00 (double occupancy) EUR 350.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • •
• •
• • • • •
•
4-hour excursion to Jurmala with City Museum: EUR 45.00 pp Latvian dinner at Restaurant La Boheme: EUR 45.00 pp 3-hour excursion to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU: EUR 40.00 pp Medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack: EUR 40.00 pp Transfer Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia to airport: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Half board at hotels (7 x 3 course dinner with coffee/tea): EUR 175.00 pp
GBD13: 21.07-28.07.13 GBD15: 04.08-11.08.13 GBD17: 18.08-25.08.13
• • • •
7 overnights at centrally located 5 star hotels 7 x buffet breakfast Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice Personalised welcome package Entrances to Old University in Vilnius, Rundale Palace, St. Peter’s Church and Tower in Riga and medieval Great Guild Hall in Tallinn Service of English and German speaking tour escort on all tours Service of Italian and Spanish speaking tour escort on all tours Service of Portuguese speaking tour escort on tour: GBD09 and GBD15 Service of French speaking tour escort on tour GBD11, GBD13, GBD17 Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary Portage at hotels
DAY 2 (MONDAY): VILNIUS Vilnius is known for its more than 1.200 medieval buildings and 48 churches. The morning sightseeing tour includes a panoramic tour of the city and a walking tour of the Old Town with Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, Peter and Paul Church, St. Anne’s Church, Old University and the Gates of Dawn. The afternoon offers an optional excursion to Trakai, the medieval capital of Lithuania, with the well preserved Trakai Castle, beautifully located on an island in Lake Galve. In the evening enjoy an optional folklore dinner at Restaurant Belmontas. DAY 3 (TUESDAY): VILNIUS-RIGA Heading for Riga, the first stop is the Hills of Crosses, one of the most holy sites of Catholic Lithuania. After crossing into Latvia we soon reach the magnificent Rundale Palace, the former summer residence of the Duke of Courland. Following a guided tour of the palace we travel through the rolling hills of Southern Latvia to reach Riga late afternoon, check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Ridzene***** or similar. DAY 4 (WEDNESDAY): RIGA Before we get acquainted with Riga we have the possibility of discovering medieval Latvia. The optional tour for this morning takes us to the stunning scenery of the Gauja National Park and the town of Sigulda. We listen to the medieval Latvian legend of the Rose of Turaida and see the ruins of the Episcopal Castle and of the Castle of the Knights of the Sword before we return to Riga. The afternoon offers an optional visit to the Ethnographical Open Air Museum, a spacious exposition of 18th century country life. The evening offers an optional organ concert at the Dome Cathedral.
Optional: •
• • • • •
Transfer airport to Hotel Radisson Blu Astorija: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) 3-hour excursion to Trakai and visit to Trakai Castle: EUR 40.00 pp Folklore dinner at Restaurant Belmontas: EUR 40.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Gauja National Park: EUR 50.00 pp 3-hour excursion to the Open Air Museum: EUR 40.00 pp Organ concert at the Dome Cathedral: EUR 35.00 pp
DAY 5 (THURSDAY): RIGA Riga, founded in 1201 by the German bishop Albert, is the largest of the three Baltic capitals and boasts a real kaleidoscope of architectural styles. The walking tour of the Old Town includes Riga Castle, the Dome Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, the Swedish Gate, the Three Brothers, the Large and Small Guilds and the Freedom Monument. The afternoon is reserved for an optional visit to Jurmala, the vibrant Latvian sea resort, famous for its wooden architecture and sandy beaches. In the evening enjoy an optional Latvian dinner at the stylish Restaurant La Boheme. DAY 6 (FRIDAY): RIGA-TALLINN The tour continues along the coastal highway to the Estonian summer resort of Parnu. We do a short tour of the resort before we continue through the North Estonian land of forests and arrive in Tallinn early afternoon, check-in at the Hotel Savoy Boutique***** or similar. DAY 7 (SATURDAY): TALLINN Tallinn is a charming blend of medieval tranquillity and modern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place in the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenir markets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. The sightseeing tour takes us around the old medieval city walls and into the Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall and Great Guild Hall. In the afternoon an optional excursion is offered to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU, the awardwinning new Estonian art museum, with its collections of classic and contemporary fine art. The evening offers an optional medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack. DAY 8 (SUNDAY): TALLINN DEPARTURE Optional transfer to airport
• • • • •
•
4-hour excursion to Jurmala: EUR 45.00 pp Latvian dinner at Restaurant La Boheme: EUR 45.00 pp 3-hour excursion to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU: EUR 40.00 pp Medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack: EUR 40.00 pp Transfer Hotel Savoy Boutique to airport: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Half board at hotels (7 x 3 course dinner with coffee/tea): EUR 210.00 pp
9
Baltic Classical June-September 2013, 8 days/7 nights: Dates: GCL06: 02.06-09.06.13 GCL07: 09.06-16.06.13 GCL08: 16.06-23.06.13 GCL09: 23.06-30.06.13 GCL10: 30.06-07.07.13 GCL11: 07.07-14.07.13 GCL12: 14.07-21.07.13
GCL13: 21.07-28.07.13 GCL14: 28.07-04.08.13 GCL15: 04.08-11.08.13 GCL16: 11.08-18.08.13 GCL17: 18.08-25.08.13 GCL18: 25.08-01.09.13 GCL19: 01.09-08.09.13
Package prices per person: EUR 595.00 (double occupancy) EUR 250.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • •
• •
• •
7 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels 7 x buffet breakfast Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice Personalised welcome package Entrances to Old University in Vilnius, St. Peter’s Church and Tower in Riga and medieval Great Guild Hall in Tallinn Service of English and German speaking tour escort on all tours Service of Italian and Spanish speaking tour escort on tour GCL08, GCL10, GCL12, GCL14, GCL16 and GCL18 Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary Portage at hotels
10
Baltic Triangle
DAY 1 (SUNDAY): ARRIVAL VILNIUS Arrival in Vilnius, optional transfer to Hotel Radisson Blu Lietuva**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting.
Cross Hills, one of the holiest sites of Catholic Lithuania. We head North into Latvia and reach Riga in the afternoon, check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Latvija**** or similar. The evening offers an optional organ concert at the Dome Cathedral.
DAY 2 (MONDAY): VILNIUS-KLAIPEDA Vilnius is known for its more than 1.200 medieval buildings and 48 churches. The morning sightseeing tour includes a panoramic tour of the city and a walking tour of the Old Town with Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, Peter and Paul Church, St. Anna’s Church, Old University and the Gates of Dawn. After the tour we continue to Trakai, the medieval capital of Lithuania and we visit the well preserved Trakai Castle, beautifully located on an island in Lake Galve. The balance of the day is spent en route to Klaipeda, where we arrive late afternoon. Checkin at Hotel Radisson Blu Klaipeda**** or similar.
DAY 5 (THURSDAY): RIGA Riga founded in 1201 by the German bishop Albert is the largest of the 3 Baltic capitals and boasts a true kaleidoscope of various architectural styles. The walking tour of the Old Town includes Riga Castle, Dome Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, Swedish Gates, Three Brothers, Large and Small Guild House and the Freedom Monument. The afternoon is reserved for an optional visit to Jurmala, the vibrant Latvian sea resort, famous for its wooden architecture and sandy beaches. In the evening enjoy an optional Latvian dinner at the stylish Restaurant La Boheme.
DAY 3 (TUESDAY): KLAIPEDA The day is reserved for a full-day optional tour to the Curonian Spit, a thin, 100 km stretch of land between the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon with small fishing villages, pine forests and endless sand dunes. Our first stop is the Hill of Witches in Juodkrante. After that we continue to Nida, where we visit the High Dunes, Thomas Mann’s summerhouse and get acquainted with the charming resort town before we drive back to Klaipeda. The evening offers an optional Lithuanian dinner at Restaurant 19th Century. DAY 4 (WEDNESDAY): KLAIPEDA-RIGA Klaipeda first became a part of Lithuania in 1923 and had a long history as a German town called Memel. A short sightseeing tour takes us to the Old Town with its narrow, cobblestone streets and old guild houses and we visit the Theatre Square and the Aennchen von Tharau Fountain. We now continue to the Samogitia National Park, where we embark on a walking tour around the picturesque Lake Plateliai. After that we continue to Siauliai and
DAY 6 (FRIDAY): RIGA-TALLINN The tour continues along the coastal highway to the Estonian summer resort of Parnu. We do a short tour of the resort before we continue through the North Estonian land of forests and arrive in Tallinn early afternoon, check-in at the Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar. DAY 7 (SATURDAY): TALLINN Tallinn is a charming blend of medieval tranquillity and modern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place in the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenir markets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. The sightseeing tour takes us around the old medieval city walls and into the Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall and Great Guild Hall. In the afternoon an optional excursion is offered to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU, the award-winning new Estonian art museum, with its collections of classic and contemporary fine art. The evening offers an optional medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack. DAY 8 (SUNDAY): TALLINN DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
Optional: •
• • • • •
Transfer airport to Hotel Radisson Blu Lietuva: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) 8-hour excursion to the Curonian Spit: EUR 80.00 pp Lithuanian dinner at Restaurant 19th Century: EUR 35.00 pp Organ concert at the Dome Cathedral: EUR 35.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Jurmala: EUR 45.00 pp Latvian dinner at Restaurant La Boheme: EUR 45.00 pp
May-September 2013, 8 days/7 nights: Dates: GBT05: 31.05-07.06.13 GBT06: 07.06-14.06.13 GBT07: 14.06-21.06.13 GBT08: 21.06-28.06.13 GBT09: 28.06-05.07.13 GBT10: 05.07-12.07.13 GBT11: 12.07-19.07.13 GBT12: 19.07-26.07.13 GBT13: 26.07-02.08.13
Package prices per person: EUR 795.00 (double occupancy) EUR 350.00 (single supplement) Supplement for GBT05-GBT10 EUR 100.00 (double occupancy) EUR 100.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • •
• • • •
• • •
•
3-hour excursion to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU: EUR 40.00 pp Medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack: EUR 40.00 pp Transfer Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia to airport: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Half board at hotels (7 x 3 course dinner with coffee/tea): EUR 175.00 pp
GBT14: 02.08-09.08.13 GBT15: 09.08-16.08.13 GBT16: 16.08-23.08.13 GBT17: 23.08-30.08.13 GBT18: 30.08-06.09.13 GBT19: 06.09-13.09.13 GBT20: 13.09-20.09.13 GBT21: 20.09-27.09.13
• • •
7 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels 7 x buffet breakfast Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice Personalized welcome package Entrances to medieval Great Guild Hall in Tallinn, Church-in-the-Rock in Helsinki, Vyborg Castle and Peter-Paul Fortress in St. Petersburg Service of English and German speaking tour escort on all tours Service of Italian and Spanish speaking tour escort on all tours Service of Portuguese speaking tour escort on tour GBT09, GBT12 and GBT15 Service of local French speaking guides on tour GBT11 GBT13 and GBT17 Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary Ferry Tallinn-Helsinki OW Portage at hotels
VOX audio communication system in use throughout the Finnish and Russian parts of the tour
DAY 1 (FRIDAY): ARRIVAL TALLINN Arrival in Tallinn, optional transfer to Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting. DAY 2 (SATURDAY): TALLINN Tallinn is a charming blend of medieval tranquillity and modern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place in the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenir markets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. The sightseeing tour takes us around the old medieval city walls and into the Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall and Great Guild Hall. In the afternoon an optional excursion is offered to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU, the awardwinning new Estonian art museum, with its collections of classic and contemporary fine art. The evening offers an optional medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack. DAY 3 (SUNDAY): TALLINN-HELSINKI In the morning we take the hydrofoil from Tallinn to Helsinki and enjoy a refreshing tour through the Finnish archipelago before arriving in Helsinki. Upon arrival we are transferred to our hotel and check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Royal**** or similar The balance of the day is reserved for exploring the Finnish capital individually. DAY 4 (MONDAY): HELSINKI Helsinki is truly located at the crossroads of Western and Eastern culture and this is reflected everywhere in the green and lively Finnish capital. The sightseeing tour takes us around the harbours, up central Mannerheim Street and by the Parliament Building, the Finlandia Hall, and the Sibelius Monument and for a visit at the famous Church-in the-Rock. The afternoon offers an optional excursion to Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, an oasis in the midst of the city with cottages, farmsteads and manors from all around Finland.
DAY 5 (TUESDAY): HELSINKI-ST. PETERSBURG Today we continue eastbound to St. Petersburg. Shortly after crossing the border into Russia we arrive in Vyborg, where we take time for a short sightseeing tour and a visit to Vyborg Castle. In the late afternoon we arrive in St. Petersburg and check-in at Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky**** or similar. DAY 6 (WEDNESDAY): ST. PETERSBURG St. Petersburg is an amazing city. Its imperial palaces and museums enjoy worldwide fame, while the Neva River and the many canals have deservedly given the city the title “The Venice of the North”. During the morning sightseeing tour we get acquainted with all the splendours of the city: the Peter-Paul Fortress, the Winter Palace, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, the Church of the Bleeding Savior, the Nevsky Convent and much more. The afternoon offers an optional visit to Peterhof, an uncontested masterpiece of the time of Peter the Great, with the impressive Grand Palace, Grand Cascade and Water Avenue and its wonderful parks. In the evening enjoy an optional visit to the Nikolaevsky Palace with an exciting Russian folklore show and Russian „champagne” and snacks. DAY 7 (THURSDAY): ST. PETERSBURG The morning is reserved for an optional excursion to Zarskoye Selo with the impressive Catherine’s Palace and the Amber Room, which vanished during World War II and was restored for St. Petersburg’s tri-centennial celebrations. In the afternoon, an optional visit to the world-famous Hermitage Art Museum is offered. In the evening enjoy an optional Russian dinner at Restaurant Na Zdoroviye. DAY 8 (FRIDAY): ST. PETERSBURG DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
Optional: •
• • • •
Transfer airport to Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) 3-hour excursion to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU: EUR 40.00 pp Medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack: EUR 40.00 pp 3-hour excursion to the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum: EUR 45.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Peterhof and visit to the Grand Palace: EUR 70.00 pp
• • • • •
•
Visit to folklore show at the Nikolaevsky Palace: EUR 50.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Zarskoye Selo and visit to Catherine’s Palace: EUR 70.00 pp 3-hour visit to the Hermitage Art Museum: EUR 45.00 pp Russian dinner at Restaurant Na Zdrorovie: EUR 60.00 pp Transfer Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky to airport: EUR 60.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 80.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Half board at hotels (7 x 3 course dinner with coffee/tea): EUR 210.00 pp
11
Baltic Capitals May-September 2013, 10 days/9 nights: Dates: GBC05: 29.05-07.06.13 GBC06: 05.06-14.06.13 GBC07: 12.06-21.06.13 GBC08: 19.06-28.06.13 GBC09: 26.06-05.07.13 GBC10: 03.07-12.07.13 GBC11: 10.07-19.07.13 GBC12: 17.07-26.07.13 GBC13: 24.07-02.08.13
GBC14: 31.07-09.08.13 GBC15: 07.08-16.08.13 GBC16: 14.08-23.08.13 GBC17: 21.08-30.08.13 GBC18: 28.08-06.09.13 GBC19: 04.09-13.09.13 GBC20: 11.09-20.09.13 GBC21: 18.09-27.09.13
Package prices per person: EUR 995.00 (double occupancy) EUR 450.00 (single supplement) Supplement for GBC05-GBC10 EUR 100.00 (double occupancy) EUR 100.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • •
• • • • • • •
9 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels 9 x buffet breakfast Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice Personalised welcome package Entrances to St. Peter’s Church and Tower in Riga, medieval Great Guild Hall in Tallinn, Church-in-the-Rock in Helsinki, Vyborg Castle and Peter-Paul Fortress in St. Petersburg Service of English and German speaking tour escort on all tours Service of Italian and Spanish speaking tour escorts on all tours Service of Portuguese speaking tour escort on tour GBC09, GBC12 and GBC15 Service of local French speaking guides on tour GBC11, GBC13 and GBC17 Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary Ferry ticket Tallinn-Helsinki OW (2nd class) Portage at hotels
VOX audio communication system in use throughout the Finnish and Russian parts of the tour
12
DAY 1 (WEDNESDAY): ARRIVAL RIGA Arrival in Riga, optional transfer to Hotel Radisson Blu Latvija**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting. DAY 2 (THURSDAY): RIGA Riga, founded in 1201 by the German bishop Albert, is the largest of the three Baltic capitals and boasts a real kaleidoscope of architectural styles. The walking tour of the Old Town includes Riga Castle, the Dome Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, the Swedish Gate, the Three Brothers, the Large and Small Guilds and the Freedom Monument. The afternoon is reserved for an optional visit to Jurmala, the vibrant Latvian sea resort, famous for its wooden architecture and sandy beaches. In the evening enjoy an optional Latvian dinner at the stylish Restaurant La Boheme. DAY 3 (FRIDAY): RIGA-TALLINN The tour continues along the coastal highway to the Estonian summer resort of Parnu. We do a short tour of the resort before we continue through the North Estonian land of forests and arrive in Tallinn early afternoon, check-in at the Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar. DAY 4 (SATURDAY): TALLINN Tallinn is a charming blend of medieval tranquillity and modern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place in the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenir markets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. The sightseeing tour takes us around the old medieval city walls and into the Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall and Great Guild Hall. In the afternoon an optional excursion is offered to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU, the award-winning new Estonian art museum, with its collections of classic and contemporary fine art. The evening offers an optional medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack. DAY 5 (SUNDAY): TALLINN-HELSINKI In the morning we take the hydrofoil from Tallinn to Helsinki and enjoy a refreshing tour through the Finnish archipelago before arriving in Helsinki. Upon arrival we are transferred to our hotel and check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Royal**** or similar The balance of the day is reserved for exploring the Finnish capital individually.
DAY 6 (MONDAY): HELSINKI Helsinki is truly located at the crossroads of Western and Eastern culture and this is reflected everywhere in the green and lively Finnish capital. The sightseeing tour takes us around the harbours, up central Mannerheim Street and by the Parliament Building, the Finlandia Hall, and the Sibelius Monument and for a visit at the famous Churchin-the-Rock. The afternoon offers an optional excursion to Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, an oasis in the midst of the city with cottages, farmsteads and manors from all around Finland. DAY 7 (TUESDAY): HELSINKI-ST. PETERSBURG Today we continue eastbound to St. Petersburg. Shortly after crossing the border into Russia we arrive in Vyborg, where we take time for a short sightseeing tour and a visit to Vyborg Castle. In the late afternoon we arrive in St. Petersburg and check-in at Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky**** or similar. DAY 8 (WEDNESDAY): ST. PETERSBURG St. Petersburg is an amazing city. Its imperial palaces and museums enjoy worldwide fame, while the Neva River and the many canals have deservedly given the city the title “The Venice of the North”. During the morning sightseeing tour we get acquainted with all the splendours of the city: the Peter-Paul Fortress, the Winter Palace, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, the Church of the Bleeding Savior, the Nevsky Convent and much more. The afternoon offers an optional visit to Peterhof, an uncontested masterpiece of the time of Peter the Great, with the impressive Grand Palace, Grand Cascade and Water Avenue and its wonderful parks. In the evening enjoy an optional visit to the Nikolaevsky Palace with an exciting Russian folklore show and Russian „champagne” and snacks DAY 9 (THURSDAY): ST. PETERSBURG The morning is reserved for an optional excursion to Zarskoye Selo with the impressive Catherine’s Palace and the Amber Room, which vanished during World War II and was restored for St. Petersburg’s tri-centennial celebrations. In the afternoon, an optional visit to the world-famous Hermitage Art Museum is offered. In the evening enjoy an optional Russian dinner at Restaurant Na Zdoroviye. DAY 10 (FRIDAY): ST. PETERSBURG DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
Optional: •
• • • •
Transfer airport to Hotel Radisson Blu Latvija: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) 4-hour excursion to Jurmala: EUR 45.00 pp Latvian dinner at Restaurant La Boheme: EUR 45.00 pp 3-hour excursion to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU: EUR 40.00 pp Medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack: EUR 40.00 pp
• • • •
3-hour excursion to the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum: EUR 45.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Peterhof and visit to the Grand Palace: EUR 70.00 pp Visit to folklore show at the Nikolaevsky Palace: EUR 50.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Zarskoye Selo and visit to Catherine’s Palace: EUR 70.00 pp
• • •
•
3-hour visit to the Hermitage Art Museum: EUR 45.00 pp Russian dinner at Restaurant Na Zdorovie: EUR 60.00 pp Transfer Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky to airport: EUR 60.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 80.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Half board at hotels (9 x 3 course dinner with coffee/ tea): EUR 260.00 pp
13
DAY 8 (SUNDAY): TALLINN-HELSINKI In the morning we take the hydrofoil from Tallinn to Helsinki and enjoy a refreshing tour through the Finnish archipelago before arriving in Helsinki. Upon arrival we are transferred to our hotel and check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Royal**** or similar The balance of the day is reserved for exploring the Finnish capital individually.
Baltic Revelation May-September 2013, 13 days/12 nights: Dates: GRE05: 26.05-07.06.13 GRE06: 02.06-14.06.13 GRE07: 09.06-21.06.13 GRE08: 16.06-28.06.13 GRE09: 23.06-05.07.13 GRE10: 30.06-12.07.13 GRE11: 07.07-19.07.13 GRE12: 14.07-26.07.13 GRE13: 21.07-02.08.13
GRE14: 28.07-09.08.13 GRE15: 04.08-16.08.13 GRE16: 11.08-23.08.13 GRE17: 18.08-30.08.13 GRE18: 25.08-06.09.13 GRE19: 01.09-13.09.13 GEE20: 08.09-20.09.13 GEE21: 15.09-27.09.13
Package prices per person: EUR 1295.00 (double occupancy) EUR 600.00 (single supplement) Supplement for GRE05-GRE10 EUR 100.00 (double occupancy) EUR 100.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • •
• • • • • • •
12 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels 12 x buffet breakfast Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice Personalised welcome package Entrances to Old University in Vilnius, Rundale Palace, St. Peter’s Church and Tower in Riga, medieval Great Guild Hall in Tallinn, Church-inthe Rock in Helsinki, Vyborg Castle and Peterand-Paul Fortress in St. Petersburg Service of English and German speaking tour escort on all tours Service of Italian and Spanish speaking tour escort on all tours Service of Portuguese speaking tour escort on tour GRE09, GRE12 and GRE15 Service of local French speaking guides on tour GRE11,GRE13 and GRE17 Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary Ferry ticket Tallinn-Helsinki OW (2nd class) Portage at hotels
VOX audio communication system in use throughout the Finnish and Russian parts of the tour
14
DAY 1 (SUNDAY): ARRIVAL VILNIUS Arrival in Vilnius, optional transfer to Hotel Radisson Blu Lietuva**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting. DAY 2 (MONDAY): VILNIUS Vilnius is known for its more than 1.200 medieval buildings and 48 churches. The morning sightseeing tour includes a panoramic tour of the city and a walking tour of the Old Town with Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, Peter and Paul Church, St. Anne’s Church, Old University and the Gates of Dawn. The afternoon offers an optional excursion to Trakai, the medieval capital of Lithuania, with the well preserved Trakai Castle, beautifully located on an island in Lake Galve. In the evening enjoy an optional folklore dinner at Restaurant Belmontas. DAY 3 (TUESDAY): VILNIUS-RIGA Heading for Riga, the first stop is the Hills of Crosses, one of the most holy sites of Catholic Lithuania. After crossing into Latvia we soon reach the magnificent Rundale Palace, the former summer residence of the Duke of Courland. Following a guided tour of the palace we travel through the rolling hills of Southern Latvia to reach Riga late afternoon, check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Latvija**** or similar. DAY 4 (WEDNESDAY): RIGA Before we get acquainted with Riga we have the possibility of discovering medieval Latvia. The optional tour for this morning takes us to the stunning scenery of the Gauja National Park and the town of Sigulda. We listen to the medieval Latvian legend of the Rose of Turaida and see the ruins of the Episcopal Castle and of the Castle of the Knights of the Sword before we return to Riga. The afternoon offers an optional visit to the Ethnographical Open Air Museum, a spacious exposition of 18th century country life. The evening offers an optional organ concert at the Dome Cathedral. DAY 5 (THURSDAY): RIGA Riga, founded in 1201 by the German bishop Albert, is the largest of the three Baltic capitals and boasts a real kaleidoscope of architectural styles. The walking tour of the Old Town includes Riga Castle, the Dome Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, the Swedish Gate, the Three Brothers, the Large and Small Guilds and the Freedom Monument.
The afternoon is reserved for an optional visit to Jurmala, the vibrant Latvian sea resort, famous for its wooden architecture and sandy beaches. In the evening enjoy an optional Latvian dinner at the stylish Restaurant La Boheme.
DAY 9 (MONDAY): HELSINKI Helsinki is truly located at the crossroads of Western and Eastern culture and this is reflected everywhere in the green and lively Finnish capital. The sightseeing tour takes us around the harbours, up central Mannerheim Street and by the Parliament Building, the Finlandia Hall, and the Sibelius Monument and for a visit at the famous Church-in the-Rock. The afternoon offers an optional excursion to Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, an oasis in the midst of the city with cottages, farmsteads and manors from all around Finland.
DAY 10 (TUESDAY): HELSINKI-ST. PETERSBURG Today we continue eastbound to St. Petersburg. Shortly after crossing the border into Russia we arrive in Vyborg, where we take time for a short sightseeing tour and a visit to Vyborg Castle. In the late afternoon we arrive in St. Petersburg and check-in at Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky**** or similar. DAY 11 (WEDNESDAY): ST. PETERSBURG St. Petersburg is an amazing city. Its imperial palaces and museums enjoy worldwide fame, while the Neva River and the many canals have deservedly given the city the title “The Venice of the North”. During the morning sightseeing tour we get acquainted with all the splendours of the city: the Peter-Paul Fortress, the Winter Palace, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, the Church of the Bleeding Savior, the Nevsky Convent and much more. The afternoon offers an optional visit to Peterhof, an uncontested masterpiece of the time of Peter the Great, with the impressive Grand Palace, Grand Cascade and Water Avenue and its wonderful parks. In the evening
enjoy an optional visit to the Nikolaevsky Palace with an exciting Russian folklore show and Russian „champagne” and snacks. DAY 12 (THURSDAY): ST. PETERSBURG The morning is reserved for an optional excursion to Zarskoye Selo with the impressive Catherine’s Palace and the Amber Room, which vanished during World War II and was restored for St. Petersburg’s tricentennial celebrations. In the afternoon, an optional visit to the world-famous Hermitage Art Museum is offered. In the evening enjoy an optional Russian dinner at Restaurant Na Zdoroviye. DAY 13 (FRIDAY): ST. PETERSBURG DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
DAY 6 (FRIDAY): RIGA-TALLINN The tour continues along the coastal highway to the Estonian summer resort of Parnu. We do a short tour of the resort before we continue through the North Estonian land of forests and arrive in Tallinn early afternoon, check-in at the Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar. DAY 7 (SATURDAY): TALLINN Tallinn is a charming blend of medieval tranquillity and modern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place in the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenir markets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. The sightseeing tour takes us around the old medieval city walls and into the Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall and Great Guild Hall. In the afternoon an optional excursion is offered to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU, the awardwinning new Estonian art museum, with its collections of classic and contemporary fine art. The evening offers an optional medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack.
Optional: •
• • • • • •
Transfer airport to Hotel Radisson Blu Lietuva: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) 3-hour excursion to Trakai and visit to Trakai Castle: EUR 40.00 pp Folklore dinner at Restaurant Belmontas: EUR 40.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Gauja National Park: EUR 50.00 pp 3-hour excursion to the Open Air Museum: EUR 40.00 pp Organ concert at the Dome Cathedral: EUR 35.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Jurmala: EUR 45.00 pp
• • • • • •
Latvian dinner at Restaurant La Boheme: EUR 45.00 pp 3-hour excursion to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU: EUR 40.00 pp Medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack: EUR 40.00 pp 3-hour excursion to the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum: EUR 45.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Peterhof and visit to the Grand Palace: EUR 70.00 pp Visit to folklore show at the Nikolaevsky Palace: EUR 50.00 pp
• • • •
•
4-hour excursion to Zarskoye Selo and visit to Catherine’s Palace: EUR 70.00 pp 3-hour visit to the Hermitage Art Museum: EUR 45.00 pp Russian dinner at Restaurant Na Zdrorovie: EUR 60.00 pp Transfer Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky to airport: EUR 60.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 80.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Half board at hotels (12 x 3 course dinner with coffee/ tea): EUR 335.00 pp
15
with Bolshoi Theatre, Sparrow Hills with Moscow University and a visit to the famous Moscow Metro. In the afternoon is offered an optional excursion to the Kremlin grounds with a visit to one of the cathedrals. The evening offers an optional excursion with a cruise on the Moscow River. DAY 8 (SUNDAY): MOSCOW The morning offers an optional excursion to Novodevichy Convent, a 16th century cluster of sparkling domes, one of the city’s most beautiful groups of buildings and full of history and treasures. The adjacent Novodevichy Cemetery is Moscow‘s most prestigious resting place after the Kremlin. The balance of the day is reserved for an optional excursion to the Tretyakov Gallery with its outstanding collection of French impressionists. The evening offers an optional visit to the Old Russian Circus.
The Czar Route June-September 2013, 9 days/8 nights: Dates: GCR06: 02.06-10.06.13 GCR07: 09.06-17.06.13 GCR08: 16.06-24.06.13 GCR09: 23.06-01.07.13 GCR10: 30.06-08.07.13 GCR11: 07.07-15.07.13 GCR12: 14.07-22.07.13 GCR13: 21.07-29.07.13 GCR14: 28.07-05.08.13
GCR15: 04.08-12.08.13 GCR16: 11.08-19.08.13 GCR17: 18.08-26.08.13 GCR18: 25.08-02.09.13 GCR19: 01.09-09.09.13 GCR20: 08.09-16.09.13 GCR21: 15.09-23.09.13 GCR22: 22.09-30.09.13
Package prices per person: EUR 995.00 (double occupancy) EUR 450.00 (single supplement) Supplement for MCR06-MCR11 EUR 100.00 (double occupancy) EUR 100.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • •
• • • • • • •
8 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels 8 x buffet breakfast Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice Personalised welcome package Entrances to Church-in-the-Rock in Helsinki, Vyborg Castle, Peter-Paul Fortress in St. Petersburg and Moscow Metro Service of English and German speaking tour escort on all tours Service of Italian and Spanish speaking tour escorts on all tours Service of Portuguese speaking tour escort on tour GCR10, GCR13 and GCR16 Service of local French speaking guides on tour GCR12, GCR14 and GCR18 Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary Sapsan high-speed train St. Petersburg-Moscow OW (2nd class) Portage at hotels and railway stations VOX audio communication system in use throughout the tour
16
DAY 1 (SUNDAY): ARRIVAL HELSINKI Arrival in Helsinki, optional transfer to Hotel Radisson Blu Royal**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting. DAY 2 (MONDAY): HELSINKI Helsinki is located at the crossroads of Western and Eastern culture and this is reflected everywhere in the green and lively Finnish capital. The sightseeing tour takes us around the harbours and Mannerheim Street and by the Parliament Building, the Finlandia Hall, and the Sibelius Monument and for a visit at the famous Churchin the-Rock. The afternoon offers an optional excursion to Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, an oasis in the midst of the city with cottages, farmsteads and manors from all around Finland.
DAY 9 (MONDAY): MOSCOW DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
DAY 3 (TUESDAY): HELSINKI-ST. PETERSBURG Today we continue eastbound to St. Petersburg. Shortly after crossing the border into Russia we arrive in Vyborg, where we take time for a short sightseeing tour and a visit to Vyborg Castle. In the late afternoon we arrive in St. Petersburg and check-in at Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky**** or similar. DAY 4 (WEDNESDAY): ST. PETERSBURG St. Petersburg is an amazing city. Its imperial palaces and museums enjoy worldwide fame, while the Neva River and the many canals have deservedly given the city the title “The Venice of the North”. During the morning sightseeing tour we get acquainted with all the splendours of the city:
the Peter-Paul Fortress, the Winter Palace, and St. Isaac’s Cathedral, the Church of the Bleeding Savior, the Nevsky Convent and much more. The afternoon offers an optional visit to Peterhof, an uncontested masterpiece of the time of Peter the Great, with the impressive Grand Palace, Grand Cascade and Water Avenue and its wonderful parks. In the evening enjoy an optional visit to the Nikolaevsky Palace with an exciting Russian folklore show and Russian „champagne” and snacks. DAY 5 (THURSDAY): ST. PETERSBURG The morning is reserved for an optional excursion to Zarskoye Selo with the impressive Catherine’s Palace and the Amber Room, which vanished during World War II and was restored for St. Petersburg’s tri-centennial celebrations. In the afternoon, an optional visit to the world-famous Hermitage Art Museum is offered. In the evening enjoy an optional Russian dinner at Restaurant Na Zdoroviye. DAY 6 (FRIDAY): ST. PETERSBURG-MOSCOW The early morning is reserved for an optional guided shopping tour to fashion and souvenir boutiques on the Nevsky Prospect. Around noon we go to the Moscow Railway Station and board the Sapsan high-speed train bound for Moscow. The train ride takes us through endless Russian landscapes along the River Volga. In the late afternoon we arrive to Moscow and check in at Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre**** or similar. DAY 7 (SATURDAY): MOSCOW Moscow, The Mother of Russia, is a genuine Russian city with the Kremlin and its onion domed cathedrals. The dramatic changes over the last decade have made the city to one of the most dynamic metropolis in the world. The morning sightseeing tour includes all the highlights of the vast city: the Red Square with Kremlin, the Theatre Square
Optional: •
• • •
Transfer airport to Hotel Radisson Blu Royal: EUR 80.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 100.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) 3-hour excursion to the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum: EUR 45.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Peterhof and visit to the Grand Palace: EUR 70.00 pp Visit to folklore show at the Nikolaevsky Palace: EUR 50.00 pp
• • • • • •
4-hour excursion to Zarskoye Selo and visit to Catherine’s Palace: EUR 70.00 pp 3-hour visit to the Hermitage Art Museum: EUR 45.00 pp Russian dinner at Restaurant Na Zdrorovie: EUR 60.00 pp 3-hour guided shopping tour: EUR 35.00 pp 3-hour excursion to Kremlin and visit to a cathedral: EUR 50.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Novodevichy Convent: EUR 55.00 pp
• • • •
•
3-hour excursion and cruise on the Moscow River: EUR 45.00 pp 3-hour visit to the Tretyakov Gallery: EUR 45.00 pp Visit to Old Russian Circus: EUR 70.00 pp Transfer Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre to airport: EUR 80.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 100.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Half board at hotels (8 x 3 course dinner with coffee/ tea): EUR 250.00 pp
17
Russian Capitals April-September 2013, 7 days/ 6 nights: Dates: GRC01: 30.04-06.05.13 GRC04: 21.05-27.05.13 GRC05: 28.05-02.06.13 GRC06: 04.06-10.06.13 GRC07: 11.06-17.06.13 GRC08: 18.06-24.06.13 GRC09: 25.06-01.07.13 GRC10: 02.07-08.07.13 GRC11: 09.07-15.07.13 GRC12: 16.07-22.07.13
GRC13: 23.07-29.07.13 GRC14: 30.07-05.08.13 GRC15: 06.08-12.08.13 GRC16: 13.08-19.08.13 GRC17: 20.08-26.08.13 GRC18: 27.08-02.09.13 GRC19: 03.09-09.09.13 GRC20: 10.09-16.09.13 GRC21: 17.09-23.09.13 GRC22: 24.09-30.09.13
Package prices per person: EUR 695.00 (double occupancy) EUR 350.00 (single supplement) Supplement for GRC06-GRC11 EUR 100.00 (double occupancy) EUR 100.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • • • • • • • • •
6 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels 6 x buffet breakfast Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice Personalised welcome package Entrances to Peter-Paul Fortress in St. Petersburg and Moscow Metro Service of English and German speaking tour escort on all tours Service of Italian and Spanish speaking tour escorts on all tours Service of Portuguese speaking tour escort on tour GCR10, GCR13 and GCR16 Service of local French speaking guides on tour GRC12, GRC14 and GRC18 Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary Sapsan high-speed train St. Petersburg-Moscow OW (2nd class) Portage at hotels and railway stations VOX audio communication system in use throughout the tour
18
DAY 1 (TUESDAY): ARRIVAL ST. PETERSBURG Arrival in St. Petersburg, optional transfer to Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting. DAY 2 (WEDNESDAY): ST. PETERSBURG St. Petersburg is an amazing city. Its imperial palaces and museums enjoy worldwide fame, while the Neva River and the many canals have deservedly given the city the title “The Venice of the North”. During the morning sightseeing tour we get acquainted with all the splendours of the city: the Peter-Paul Fortress, the Winter Palace, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, the Church of the Bleeding Savior, the Nevsky Convent and much more. The afternoon offers an optional visit to Peterhof, an uncontested masterpiece of the time of Peter the Great, with the impressive Grand Palace, Grand Cascade and Water Avenue and its wonderful parks. In the evening enjoy an optional visit to the Nikolaevsky
Palace with an exciting Russian folklore show and Russian „champagne” and snacks. DAY 3 (THURSDAY): ST .PETERSBURG The morning is reserved for an optional excursion to Zarskoye Selo with the impressive Catherine’s Palace and the Amber Room, which vanished during World War II and was restored for St. Petersburg’s tri-centennial celebrations. In the afternoon, an optional visit to the world-famous Hermitage Art Museum is offered. In the evening enjoy an optional Russian dinner at Restaurant Na Zdoroviye. DAY 4 (FRIDAY): ST. PETERSBURG-MOSCOW The early morning is reserved for an optional guided shopping tour to fashion and souvenir boutiques on the Nevsky Prospect. Around noon we go to the Moscow
Railway Station and board the Sapsan high-speed train bound for Moscow. The train ride takes us through endless Russian landscapes along the River Volga. In the evening we arrive to Moscow and check in at Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre**** or similar. DAY 5 (SATURDAY): MOSCOW Moscow, The Mother of Russia, is a genuine Russian city with the Kremlin and its onion domed cathedrals. The dramatic changes over the last decade have made the city to one of the most dynamic metropolis in the world. The morning sightseeing tour includes all
the highlights of the vast city: the Red Square with Kremlin, the Theatre Square with Bolshoi Theatre, Sparrow Hills with Moscow University and a visit to the famous Moscow Metro. In the afternoon is offered an optional excursion to the Kremlin grounds with a visit to one of the cathedrals. The evening offers an optional excursion with a cruise on the Moscow River.
and full of history and treasures. The adjacent Novodevichy Cemetery is Moscow‘s most prestigious resting place after the Kremlin. The balance of the day is reserved for an optional excursion to the Tretyakov Gallery with its outstanding collection of French impressionists. The evening offers an optional visit to the Old Russian Circus.
DAY 6 (SUNDAY): MOSCOW The day offers an optional excursion to Novodevichy Convent, a 16th century cluster of sparkling domes, one of the city’s most beautiful groups of buildings
DAY 7 (MONDAY): MOSCOW DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
Optional: •
• • •
Transfer airport to Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky: EUR 60.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 80.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) 4-hour excursion to Peterhof and visit to the Grand Palace: EUR 70.00 pp Visit to folklore show at the Nikolaevsky Palace: EUR 50.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Zarskoye Selo and visit to Catherine’s Palace: EUR 70.00 pp
• • • • • •
3-hour visit to the Hermitage Art Museum: EUR 45.00 pp Russian dinner at Restaurant Na Zdrorovie: EUR 60.00 pp 3-hour guided shopping tour: EUR 35.00 pp 3-hour excursion to Kremlin and visit to a cathedral: EUR 50.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Novodevichy Convent: EUR 55.00 pp 3-hour excursion and cruise on the Moscow River: EUR 45.00 pp
• • •
•
3-hour visit to the Tretyakov Gallery: EUR 45.00 pp Visit to Old Russian Circus: EUR 70.00 pp Transfer Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre to airport: EUR 80.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 100.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Half board (6 x 3 course dinner with coffee/tea): EUR 180.00 pp
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DAY 4 (FRIDAY): ST. PETERSBURG-MOSCOW The early morning is reserved for an optional guided shopping tour to fashion and souvenir boutiques on the Nevsky Prospect. Around noon we go to the Moscow Railway Station and board the Sapsan high-speed train bound for Moscow. The train ride takes us through endless Russian landscapes along the River Volga. In the evening we arrive to Moscow and check in at Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre**** or similar.
Russian Capitals and Golden Ring
June-August 2013, 10 days/ 9 nights: Dates: GGR09: 25.06-04.07.13 GGR11: 09.07-18.07.13 GGR13: 23.07-01.08.13
GGR14: 30.07-08.08.13 GGR15: 06.08-15.08.13 GGR16: 13.08-22.08.13
Package prices per person: EUR 1095.00 (double occupancy) EUR 500.00 (single supplement) Supplement for GGR09-GGR11 EUR 100.00 (double occupancy) EUR 100.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • •
• • • • •
9 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels 9 x buffet breakfast Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice Personalised welcome package Entrances to Peter-Paul Fortress in St. Petersburg and Moscow Metro, the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius in Sergiev Posad and the Church of the Intercession on the Nerl in Bogolyubovo Service of English and German speaking tour escort on all tours Service of Italian and Spanish speaking tour escorts on all tours Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary Sapsan high-speed train St. Petersburg-Moscow OW (2nd class) Portage at hotels and railway stations
DAY 1 (TUESDAY): ARRIVAL ST. PETERSBURG Arrival in St. Petersburg, optional transfer to Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting.
Grand Cascade and Water Avenue and its wonderful parks. In the evening enjoy an optional visit to the Nikolaevsky Palace with an exciting Russian folklore show and Russian „champagne” and snacks.
DAY 2 (WEDNESDAY): ST. PETERSBURG St. Petersburg is an amazing city. Its imperial palaces and museums enjoy worldwide fame, while the Neva River and the many canals have deservedly given the city the title “The Venice of the North”. During the morning sightseeing tour we get acquainted with all the splendours of the city: the Peter-Paul Fortress, the Winter Palace, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, the Church of the Bleeding Savior, the Nevsky Convent and much more. The afternoon offers an optional visit to Peterhof, an uncontested masterpiece of the time of Peter the Great, with the impressive Grand Palace,
DAY 3 (THURSDAY): ST .PETERSBURG The morning is reserved for an optional excursion to Zarskoye Selo with the impressive Catherine’s Palace and the Amber Room, which vanished during World War II and was restored for St. Petersburg’s tri-centennial celebrations. In the afternoon, an optional visit to the world-famous Hermitage Art Museum is offered. In the evening enjoy an optional Russian dinner at Restaurant Na Zdoroviye.
DAY 5 (SATURDAY): MOSCOW Moscow, The Mother of Russia, is a genuine Russian city with the Kremlin and its onion domed cathedrals. The dramatic changes over the last decade have made the city to one of the most dynamic metropolis in the world. The morning sightseeing tour includes all the highlights of the vast city: the Red Square with Kremlin, the Theatre Square with Bolshoi Theatre, Sparrow Hills with Moscow University and a visit to the famous Moscow Metro. In the afternoon is offered an optional excursion to the Kremlin grounds with a visit to one of the cathedrals. The evening offers an optional excursion with a cruise on the Moscow River. DAY 6 (SUNDAY): MOSCOW The day offers an optional excursion to Novodevichy Convent, a 16th century cluster of sparkling domes, one of the city’s most beautiful groups of buildings and full of history and treasures. The adjacent Novodevichy Cemetery is Moscow‘s most prestigious resting place after the Kremlin. The balance of the day is reserved for an optional excursion to the Tretyakov Gallery with its outstanding collection of French impressionists. The evening offers an optional visit to the Old Russian Circus. DAY 7 (MONDAY): MOSCOW-VLADIMIR-SUZDAL Today we start our journey on the Golden Ring of ancient Russian towns. We first go to the town of Sergiev Posad to visit the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, the most important Russian monastery and the spiritual heart of the Russian Orthodox Church. After that we drive through scenic Russian landscapes to Vladimir, one of the ancient capitals of Russia. We see the Assumption Cathedral and the St. Demetrius Cathedral, both world heritage sites and the Golden Gate. In the late afternoon we continue to Suzdal and check-in at the Hotel Nikolaevsky Posad**** or similar. DAY 8: (TUESDAY): SUZDAL Dating back almost a thousand year Suzdal is a small fairytale town with an unsurpassed collection of ancient Russian architecture. During the optional whole day tour we discover all the treasures of Suzdal including the Kremlin, the Nativity Cathedral, the Museum of Wooden Architecture, St. Ethymius Monastery and the Transfiguration Cathedral. DAY 9: (WEDNESDAY): SUZDAL – BOGOLYBOVO-MOSCOW This morning we drive to the nearby village of Bogolyubovo to admire the glare white light single-domed Church of the Intercession on the Nerl. The church is built on a small hill, on a river meadow, in all its clarity and beauty it stands like a candle, growing out over the expanse of the meadow. We drive back to Moscow and in the afternoon we check-in at Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre**** or similar. DAY 10: (THURSDAY): MOSCOW DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
Optional: •
• •
VOX audio communication system in use throughout the tour
20
•
Transfer airport to Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky: EUR 60.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 80.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) 4-hour excursion to Peterhof and visit to the Grand Palace: EUR 70.00 pp Visit to folklore show at the Nikolaevsky Palace: EUR 50.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Zarskoye Selo and visit to Catherine’s Palace: EUR 70.00 pp
• • • • • • •
3-hour visit to the Hermitage Art Museum: EUR 45.00 pp Russian dinner at Restaurant Na Zdrorovie: EUR 60.00 pp 3-hour guided shopping tour: EUR 35.00 pp 3-hour excursion to Kremlin and visit to a cathedral: EUR 50.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Novodevichy Convent: EUR 55.00 pp 3-hour excursion and cruise on the Moscow River: EUR 45.00 pp 3-hour visit to the Tretyakov Gallery: EUR 45.00 pp
• •
•
•
Visit to Old Russian Circus: EUR 70.00 pp 8-hours tour of Suzdal and visit to Church of the Nativity, Museum of Wooden Architecture, St. Ethymius Monastery and the Transfiguration Cathedral: EUR 80.00 pp Transfer Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre to airport: EUR 80.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 100.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Half board (9 x 3 course dinner with coffee/tea): EUR 260.00 pp
21
Helsinki and enjoy a refreshing tour through the Finnish archipelago before arriving in Helsinki. Upon arrival we are transferred to our hotel and check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Royal**** or similar The balance of the day is reserved for exploring the Finnish capital individually.
Baltic and Russian Explorer May-September 2013, 16 days/15 nights: Dates: GBX05: 26.05-10.06.13 GBX06: 02.06-17.06.13 GBX07: 09.06-24.06.13 GBX08: 16.06-01.07.13 GBX09: 23.06-08.07.13 GBX10: 30.06-15.07.13 GBX11: 07.07-22.07.13 GBX12: 14.07-29.07.13 GBX13: 21.07-05.08.13
GBX14: 28.07-12.08.13 GBX15: 04.08-19.08.13 GBX16: 11.08-26.08.13 GBX17: 18.08-02.09.13 GBX18: 25.08-09.09.13 GBX19: 01.09-16.09.13 GBX20: 08.09-23.09.13 GBX21: 15.09-30.09.13
Package prices per person: EUR 1695.00 (double occupancy) EUR 750.00 (single supplement) Supplement for GBX05-GBX10 EUR 100.00 (double occupancy) EUR 100.00 (single supplement)
Including: • 15 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels • 15 x buffet breakfast • Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice • Personalised welcome package • Entrances to Old University in Vilnius, Rundale Palace, St. Peter’s Church and Tower in Riga, medieval Great Guild Hall in Tallinn, Church-inthe Rock in Helsinki, Vyborg Castle, Peter-PaulFortress in St. Petersburg and Moscow Metro • Service of English and German speaking tour escort on all tours • Service of Italian and Spanish speaking tour escort on all tours • Service of Portuguese speaking tour escort on tour GBX09, GBX12 and GBX15 • Service of local French speaking guides on tour GBX11,GBX13 and GBX17 • Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary • Ferry Tallinn-Helsinki OW • Sapsan high-speed train St. Petersburg-Moscow OW (2nd class) • Portage at hotels and railway stations VOX audio communication system in use throughout the Finnish and Russian parts of the tour
22
DAY 1 (SUNDAY): ARRIVAL VILNIUS Arrival in Vilnius, optional transfer to Hotel Radisson Blu Lietuva**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting.
architecture and sandy beaches. In the evening enjoy an optional Latvian dinner at the stylish Restaurant La Boheme.
DAY 2 (MONDAY): VILNIUS Vilnius is known for its more than 1.200 medieval buildings and 48 churches. The morning sightseeing tour includes a panoramic tour of the city and a walking tour of the Old Town with Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, Peter and Paul Church, St. Anne’s Church, Old University and the Gates of Dawn. The afternoon offers an optional excursion to Trakai, the medieval capital of Lithuania, with the well preserved Trakai Castle, beautifully located on an island in Lake Galve. In the evening enjoy an optional folklore dinner at Restaurant Belmontas.
DAY 6 (FRIDAY): RIGA-TALLINN The tour continues along the coastal highway to the Estonian summer resort of Parnu. We do a short tour of the resort before we continue through the North Estonian land of forests and arrive in Tallinn early afternoon, checkin at the Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar.
DAY 5 (THURSDAY): RIGA Riga, founded in 1201 by the German bishop Albert, is the largest of the three Baltic capitals and boasts a real kaleidoscope of architectural styles. The walking tour of the Old Town includes Riga Castle, the Dome Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, the Swedish Gate, the Three Brothers, the Large and Small Guilds and the Freedom Monument. The afternoon is reserved for an optional visit to Jurmala, the vibrant Latvian sea resort, famous for its wooden
DAY 10 (TUESDAY): HELSINKI-ST. PETERSBURG Today we continue eastbound to St. Petersburg. Shortly after crossing the border into Russia we arrive in Vyborg, where we take time for a short sightseeing tour and a visit to Vyborg Castle. In the late afternoon we arrive in St. Petersburg and check-in at Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky**** or similar. DAY 11 (WEDNESDAY): ST. PETERSBURG St. Petersburg is an amazing city. Its imperial palaces and museums enjoy worldwide fame, while the Neva River and the many canals have deservedly given the city the title “The Venice of the North”. During the morning sightseeing tour we get acquainted with all the splendours of the city: the Peter-Paul Fortress, the Winter Palace, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, the Church of the Bleeding Savior, the Nevsky Convent and much more. The afternoon offers an optional visit to Peterhof, an uncontested masterpiece of the time of Peter the Great, with the impressive Grand Palace, Grand Cascade and Water Avenue and its wonderful parks. In the evening enjoy an optional visit to the Nikolaevsky Palace with an exciting Russian folklore show and Russian „champagne” and snacks. DAY 12 (THURSDAY): ST. PETERSBURG The morning is reserved for an optional excursion to Zarskoye Selo with the impressive Catherine’s Palace and the Amber Room, which vanished during World War II and was restored for St. Petersburg’s tri-centennial celebrations. In the afternoon, an optional visit to the world-famous Hermitage Art Museum is offered. In the evening enjoy an optional Russian dinner at Restaurant Na Zdoroviye.
DAY 3 (TUESDAY): VILNIUS-RIGA Heading for Riga, the first stop is the Hills of Crosses, one of the most holy sites of Catholic Lithuania. After crossing into Latvia we soon reach the magnificent Rundale Palace, the former summer residence of the Duke of Courland. Following a guided tour of the palace we travel through the rolling hills of Southern Latvia to reach Riga late afternoon, check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Latvija**** or similar. DAY 4 (WEDNESDAY): RIGA Before we get acquainted with Riga we have the possibility of discovering medieval Latvia. The optional tour for this morning takes us to the stunning scenery of the Gauja National Park and the town of Sigulda. We listen to the medieval Latvian legend of the Rose of Turaida and see the ruins of the Episcopal Castle and of the Castle of the Knights of the Sword before we return to Riga. The afternoon offers an optional visit to the Ethnographical Open Air Museum, a spacious exposition of 18th century country life. The evening offers an optional organ concert at the Dome Cathedral.
DAY 9 (MONDAY): HELSINKI Helsinki is truly located at the crossroads of Western and Eastern culture and this is reflected everywhere in the green and lively Finnish capital. The sightseeing tour takes us around the harbours, up central Mannerheim Street and by the Parliament Building, the Finlandia Hall, and the Sibelius Monument and for a visit at the famous Church-in the-Rock. The afternoon offers an optional excursion to Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, an oasis in the midst of the city with cottages, farmsteads and manors from all around Finland.
DAY 13 (FRIDAY): ST. PETERSBURG-MOSCOW The early morning is reserved for an optional guided shopping tour to fashion and souvenir boutiques on the Nevsky Prospect. Around noon we go to the Moscow Railway Station and board the Sapsan high-speed train bound for Moscow. The train ride takes us through endless Russian landscapes along the River Volga. In the late afternoon we arrive to Moscow and check in at Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre**** or similar.
DAY 7 (SATURDAY): TALLINN Tallinn is a charming blend of medieval tranquillity and modern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place in the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenir markets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. The sightseeing tour takes us around the old medieval city walls and into the Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall and Great Guild Hall. In the afternoon an optional excursion is offered to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU, the awardwinning new Estonian art museum, with its collections of classic and contemporary fine art. The evening offers an optional medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack. DAY 8 (SUNDAY): TALLINN-HELSINKI In the morning we take the hydrofoil from Tallinn to
DAY 14 (SATURDAY): MOSCOW Moscow, The Mother of Russia, is a genuine Russian city with the Kremlin and its onion domed cathedrals. The dramatic changes over the last decade have made the city to
one of the most dynamic metropolis in the world. The morning sightseeing tour includes all the highlights of the vast city: the Red Square with Kremlin, the Theatre Square with Bolshoi Theatre, Sparrow Hills with Moscow University and a visit to the famous Moscow Metro. In the afternoon is offered an optional excursion to the Kremlin grounds with a visit to one of the cathedrals. The evening offers an optional excursion with a cruise on the Moscow River. DAY 15 (SUNDAY): MOSCOW The morning offers an optional excursion to Novidevichy Convent, a 16th century cluster of sparkling domes, one of the city’s most beautiful groups of buildings and full of history and treasures. The adjacent Novodevichy Cemetery is Moscow‘s most prestigious resting place after the Kremlin. The balance of the day is reserved for an optional excursion to the Tretyakov Gallery with its outstanding collection of French impressionists. The evening offers an optional visit to the Old Russian Circus. DAY 16 (MONDAY): MOSCOW DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
Optional: •
• • • • • • • •
Transfer airport to Hotel Radisson Blu Lietuva: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) 3-hour excursion to Trakai and visit to Trakai Castle: EUR 40.00 pp Folklore dinner at Restaurant Belmontas: EUR 40.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Gauja National Park: EUR 50.00 pp 3-hour excursion to the Open Air Museum: EUR 40.00 pp Organ concert at the Dome Cathedral: EUR 35.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Jurmala: EUR 45.00 pp Latvian dinner at Restaurant La Boheme: EUR 45.00 pp 3-hour excursion to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU: EUR 40.00 pp
• • • • • • • • •
Medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack: EUR 40.00 pp 3-hour excursion to the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum: EUR 45.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Peterhof and visit to the Grand Palace: EUR 70.00 pp Visit to folklore show at the Nikolaevsky Palace: EUR 50.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Zarskoye Selo and visit to Catherine’s Palace: EUR 70.00 pp 3-hour visit to the Hermitage Art Museum: EUR 45.00 pp Russian dinner at Restaurant Na Zdrorovie: EUR 60.00 pp 3-hour guided shopping tour: EUR 35.00 pp 3-hour excursion to Kremlin and visit to a cathedral: EUR 50.00 pp
• • • • •
•
4-hour excursion to Novodevich Convent: EUR 55.00 pp 3-hour excursion and cruise on the Moscow River: EUR 45.00 pp 3-hour visit to the Tretyakov Gallery: EUR 45.00 pp Visit to Old Russian Circus: EUR 70.00 pp Transfer Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre to airport: EUR 80.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 100.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Half board at hotels (15 x 3 course dinner with coffee/ tea): EUR 425.00 pp
23
DAY 6 (TUESDAY): STALHEIM-FAGERNES Today we continue through the fjord region with its formidable water-drowned glacial valleys, flanked by impossible rugged terrain to Gudvangen where we cross the Naroyfjord and reach the village of Flam. In the afternoon the journey continues along the Aurlandfjord. We do a photo stop at the famous Borgund Stave Church before we continue to Fagernes. Check-in at Hotel Quality Fagernes**** or similar. Dinner at hotel.
Scandinavian and Russian Treasures June-September 2013, 19 days/18 nights: Dates: GSR06: 06.06-24.06.13 GSR07: 13.06-01.07.13 GSR08: 20.06-08.07.13 GSR10: 04.07-22.07.13 GSR11: 11.07-29.08.13
GSR12: 18.07-05.08.13 GSR14: 01.08-19.08.13 GSR15: 08.08-26.08.13 GSR16: 15.08-02.09.13 GSR18: 29.08-16.09.13
Package prices per person: EUR 2795.00 (double occupancy) EUR 1195.00 (single supplement) Supplement for GSR06-GSR08 EUR 100.00 (double occupancy) EUR 100.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • • • • • • • • •
16 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels 1 overnight at ferry Copenhagen-Oslo OW, outside-cabins 1 overnight at ferry Stockholm-Helsinki OW, promenade cabins 18 x buffet breakfast 4 x dinner (3 x 3-course hotel dinner and 1 x buffet dinner on board the ferry) Welcome meeting Entrances Vyborg Castle, Peter and Paul Fortress and Moscow Metro Service of English speaking tour escorts on all tours Service of Spanish speaking tour escorts on all tours Service of 1st class motor coaches and 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary Sapsan high-speed train St. Petersburg-Moscow OW (2nd class) Portage at hotels, ferry terminals and railway stations
DAY 1 (THURSDAY): ARRIVAL COPENHAGEN Arrival in Copenhagen, optional transfer to Hotel Scandic Copenhagen**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting. DAY 2 (FRIDAY): COPENHAGEN-OSLO Copenhagen is Scandinavia’s largest and most lively city and one of Europe’s most romantic capitals with its old castles and churches and charming squares and harbours. The morning sightseeing tour will acquaint us with all the city’s treasures: the Little Mermaid guarding the port, the Royal Castle, Nyhavn with its restaurants and small boats and the City Hall Square. In the afternoon we embark on the DFDS Seaways overnight ferry bound for Oslo. The ferry offers a wide choice of restaurants, bars, shops and much more. DAY 3 (SATURDAY): OSLO-GEILO Founded in 1048 Oslo is Scandinavia’s oldest capital and today it is a very pleasant and casual city with an interesting jumble of historical and modern architecture. Upon arrival in Oslo we start the morning sightseeing tour. We enjoy a walk around the Frogner Park decorated with the unique sculptures of Gustav Vigeland. We pass by the City Hall and the main street, Karl Johan, leading to the Royal Palace. In the early afternoon we continue our journey to the beautiful Hallingdal Valley. We visit Gol and arrive in Geilo, a small town surrounded by mountains. Check-in at Hotel Bardola**** or similar. Dinner at hotel.
DAY 4 (SUNDAY): GEILO-BERGEN Today we enter the breathtaking Norwegian nature. We continue through the Hallingdal Valley, known for its folkloric traditions. We cross the Hardanger mountain plateau and on the descent towards the fjord we pass the famous Voringsfossen Waterfall. We cross the Hardanger Fjord by ferry and continue along its shores to Bergen. Situated on a peninsula surrounded by 7 mountains the history of Bergen is closely connected with the sea and this is very noticeable in the city, especially at the city’s picturesque waterfront. The afternoon sightseeing tour introduces us to this remarkable Hanseatic city with the Bryggen area of old wooden houses, the traditional Fish Market and the city centre with the St. Mary’s Church and Haakon’s Hall. We check-in at Hotel Scandic Neptun**** or similar. DAY 5 (MONDAY): BERGEN-STALHEIM The morning is at leisure to explore more of the stunning Norwegian fjord capital. In the early afternoon we travel to the historical town of Voss, which has a scenic background of snow clad mountains. After a break here we continue towards the Naroy Valley and Stalheim, offering a stunning view down the Stalheim Gorge, Check-in at Hotel Stalheim**** or similar. Dinner at hotel.
DAY 7 (WEDNESDAY): FAGERNES-OSLO After breakfast we leave the majestic Norwegian fjords behind us and travel back towards Oslo, which we reach early in the afternoon. Check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Scandinavia**** or similar. The balance of the day is spent for exploring more of the Viking capital. DAY 8 (THURSDAY): OSLO-STOCKHOLM Today we head for Stockholm, passing through Norwegian forests. We cross the border and enter the county of Varmland in Sweden. Throughout the balance of the day we drive through typical Swedish landscapes with fertile farmland, blue lakes and thick forests, which evoke an atmosphere of intriguing fairytales. In the afternoon we arrive at Stockholm. Check-in at Hotel Scandic Grand Central**** or similar. DAY 9 (FRIDAY): STOCKHOLM Stockholm – the beauty on the water – is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, built on 14 islands and protected from the sea by Skargarden, the Stockholm archipelago. The morning sightseeing tour takes us to the Old Town with the Royal Palace, Stockholm Cathedral and the city centre with its famous City Hall. The afternoon is free for individual visits. DAY 10 (SATURDAY): STOCKHOLM-HELSINKI The morning is free to explore more of Stockholm individually. Mid-afternoon we leave for the pier to embark on the Tallink Silja Line overnight ferry bound for Helsinki. While we travel slowly down the archipelago past numerous islands and islets we enjoy a sumptuous dinner on board the ship. And afterwards there is a wide choice of entertainment with bars, shops, casino and much more. DAY 11 (SUNDAY): HELSINKI Helsinki is truly located at the crossroads of Western and Eastern culture and this is reflected everywhere in the green and lively Finnish capital. Directly after disembarkation we start a sightseeing tour, which takes us around the harbours, up central Mannerheim Street and by the Parliament Building, the Finlandia Hall, and the Sibelius Monument and the famous Church-in the-Rock. At the end of the tour we check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Royal**** or similar.
optional excursion to Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, an oasis in the midst of the city with cottages, farmsteads and manors from all around Finland. DAY 13 (TUESDAY): HELSINKI-ST. PETERSBURG Today we continue eastbound to St. Petersburg. Shortly after crossing the border into Russia we arrive in Vyborg, where we take time for a short sightseeing tour and a visit to Vyborg Castle. In the late afternoon we arrive in St. Petersburg and check-in at Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky**** or similar. DAY 14 (WEDNESDAY): ST. PETERSBURG St. Petersburg is an amazing city. Its imperial palaces and museums enjoy worldwide fame, while the Neva River and the many canals have deservedly given the city the title “The Venice of the North”. During the morning sightseeing tour we get acquainted with all the splendours of the city: the Peter-Paul Fortress, the Winter Palace, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, the Church of the Bleeding Savior, the Nevsky Convent and much more. The afternoon offers an optional visit to Peterhof, an uncontested masterpiece of the time of Peter the Great, with the impressive Grand Palace, Grand Cascade and Water Avenue and its wonderful parks. In the evening enjoy an optional visit to the Nikolaevsky Palace with an exciting Russian folklore show and Russian „champagne” and snacks.
24
DAY 12 (MONDAY): HELSINKI The morning is reserved for exploring more of the Finish capital individually. The afternoon offers an
DAY 18 (SUNDAY): MOSCOW The day offers an optional excursion to Novidevichy Convent, a 16th century cluster of sparkling domes, one of the city’s most beautiful groups of buildings and full of history and treasures. The adjacent Novodevichy Cemetery is Moscow‘s most prestigious resting place after the Kremlin. The balance of the day is reserved for an optional excursion to the Tretyakov Gallery with its outstanding collection of French impressionists. The evening offers an optional visit to the Old Russian Circus. DAY 19 (MONDAY): MOSCOW DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
DAY 15 (THURSDAY): ST. PETERSBURG The morning is reserved for an optional excursion to Zarskoye Selo with the impressive Catherine’s Palace and the Amber Room, which vanished during World War II and was restored for St. Petersburg’s tricentennial celebrations. In the afternoon, an optional visit to the world-famous Hermitage Art Museum is offered. In the evening enjoy an optional Russian dinner at Restaurant Na Zdoroviye. DAY 16 (FRIDAY): ST. PETERSBURG-MOSCOW The early morning is reserved for an optional guided shopping tour to fashion and souvenir boutiques on the Nevsky Prospect. Around noon we go to the Moscow Railway Station and board the Sapsan high-speed train bound for Moscow. The train ride takes us through endless Russian landscapes along the River Volga. In the late afternoon we arrive to Moscow and check in at Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre**** or similar. DAY 17 (SATURDAY): MOSCOW Moscow, The Mother of Russia, is a genuine Russian city with the Kremlin and its onion domed cathedrals. The dramatic changes over the last decade have made
Optional: •
• VOX audio communication system in use throughout the Finnish and Russian parts of the tour
the city to one of the most dynamic metropolis in the world. The morning sightseeing tour includes all the highlights of the vast city: the Red Square with Kremlin, the Theatre Square with Bolshoi Theatre, Sparrow Hills with Moscow University and a visit to the famous Moscow Metro. In the afternoon is offered an optional excursion to the Kremlin grounds with a visit to one of the cathedrals. The evening offers an optional excursion with a cruise on the Moscow River.
Transfer airport to Hotel Scandic Copenhagen: EUR 135.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 155.00 for private car/minivan (4-7 persons) Guests will receive details from the tour escort about optional tours
•
Transfer Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre to airport: EUR 80.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 100.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons)
The most scenic, comprehensive and complete tour of Scandinavia, Finland and Russia on the market
25
DAY 12 (TUESDAY): RIGA In the morning, upon arrival to Riga harbor we are transferred to our hotel, Check in at Hotel Radisson Blu Latvija**** or similar. The afternoon is best spent for getting the first impressions of the Latvian capital.
Magic of Scandinavia, Baltic Countries and Russia June – September 2013, 25 days/24 nights: Dates: GMS06: 07.06-01.07.13 GMS08: 21.06-15.07.13 GMS10: 05.07-29.07.13 GMS12: 19.07-12.08.13
GMS13: 26.07-19.08.13 GMS14: 02.08-26.08.13 GMS16: 09.08-02.09.13 GMS17: 16.08-09.09.13.
Package prices per person: EUR 3195.00 (double occupancy) EUR 1250.00 (single supplement) Supplement for GMS06-GMS08 EUR 100.00 (double occupancy) EUR 100.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • •
•
• • • • • •
22 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels 1 overnight at ferry Copenhagen-Oslo OW, inside-cabins 1 overnight at ferry Stockholm-Riga OW, inside cabins 24 x buffet breakfast 5 x dinners (1 x 3-course hotel dinner, 2 x buffet dinner on board the ferries, 1 x 3 course Latvian dinner and 1 x 3 course Russian dinner) Entrances to St. Peter’s Church and Towers in Riga and medieval Great Guild Hall in Tallinn, Church-in-the-Rock in Helsinki, Vyborg Castle, Peter-Paul Fortress in St. Petersburg and Moscow Metro Service of English speaking tour escorts on all tours Service of Spanish speaking tour escorts on all tours Service of 1st class motor coaches and/or 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary Ferry Tallinn-Helsinki OW Sapsan high-speed train St. Petersburg-Moscow OW (2nd class) Portage at hotels and railway stations
VOX audio communication system in use throughout the Finnish and Russian parts of the tour
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DAY 1 (FRIDAY): ARRIVAL COPENHAGEN Arrival in Copenhagen, optional transfer to Hotel Scandic Copenhagen**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting. DAY 2 (SATURDAY): COPENHAGEN Copenhagen is Scandinavia’s largest and most lively city and one of Europe’s most romantic capitals with its old castles and churches and charming squares and harbors. The morning sightseeing tour acquaints us with all the city’s treasures: the Little Mermaid guarding the port, the Royal Castle, Nyhavn with its restaurants and small boats and the City Hall Square. The afternoon is free for exploring more of the charming Danish capital individually. DAY 3 (SUNDAY): COPENHAGEN-OSLO After a leisurely day in Copenhagen we embark in the afternoon on the DFDS Seaways overnight ferry bound for Oslo. The ferry offers a wide choice of restaurants, bars, shops and much more. In the evening we enjoy a sumptuous dinner on board while cruising up the Kattegat. DAY 4 (MONDAY): OSLO Founded in 1048 Oslo is Scandinavia’s oldest capital and today it is a very pleasant and casual city with an interesting jumble of historical and modern architecture. Upon arrival in Oslo we start the morning sightseeing tour. We enjoy a walk around the Frogner Park decorated with the unique sculptures of Gustav Vigeland and. we pass by the City Hall and the main street, Karl Johan, leading to the Royal Palace. Check in at Hotel Thon Stefan**** or similar. The balance of the day is free for exploring more of the Viking capital. DAY 5 (TUESDAY): OSLO-BERGEN In the morning we continue our journey to the beautiful Hallingdal Valley. We arrive to Geilo, a small town surrounded by mountains, and continue into the mountain plateau of Hardanger. En route we pass the famous Waterfall of Voringsfossen and after crossing Hardangerjord by ferry we arrive to Bergen in the afternoon. Check-in at Hotel Bergen Brygge**** or similar. DAY 6 (WEDNESDAY): BERGEN Situated on a peninsula surrounded by 7 mountains the history of Bergen is closely connected with the sea and this is very noticeable in the city, especially at the city’s picturesque waterfront. The afternoon sightseeing tour
introduces us to this remarkable Hanseatic city with the Bryggen area of old wooden houses, the traditional Fish Market and the city centre with the St. Mary’s Church and Haakon’s Hall. In the afternoon we are exploring more of the stunning Norwegian fjord capital on our own. DAY 7 (THURSDAY): BERGEN-SOGNEFJORD-GEILO Today we continue through the fjord region with its formidable water-drowned glacial valleys, flanked by impossible rugged terrain to Stalheim, offering a stunning view down the Stalheim Gorge. From here we cruise over the Sognefjord, the largest fjord in Norway. In the afternoon we arrive to back to Geilo, check in at Hotel Bardola **** or similar. Dinner at the hotel. DAY 8 (FRIDAY): GEILO-KARLSTAD After breakfast we leave Geilo and continue through the Valdres area, where we enter the country of Varmland in Sweden. Throughout the balance of the day we drive through typical Swedish landscapes with fertile farmland, blue lakes and thick forests, which evoke an atmosphere of intriguing fairytales. In the afternoon, we arrive to Karlstad and check in at Hotel Clarion Plaza**** or similar. DAY 9 (SATURDAY): KARLSTAD-STOCKHOLM Our tour continues with a scenic drive towards Stockholm, which we reach in the early afternoon. Stockholm – the beauty on the water – is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, built on 14 islands and protected from the sea by Skargarden, the Stockholm archipelago. The afternoon sightseeing tour takes us to the Old Town with the Royal Palace, Stockholm Cathedral and the city centre with its famous City Hall. Check in at Hotel First Amaranten**** or similar. DAY 10 (SUNDAY): STOCKHOLM The day is free to explore more of beautiful Swedish capital individually, perhaps visit the City Hall, the Wasa Museum or a take a tour to Uppsala and Sigtuna. DAY 11 (MONDAY): STOCKHOLM-RIGA After morning at own disposal in Stockholm we are transferred to the harbor to embark the Tallink Silja Line overnight ferry bound for Riga. The ferry offers a lot of facilities including restaurants, cafes, night club and much more. While we travel slowly down the archipelago past numerous islands and islets we enjoy a Scandinavian buffet dinner on board the ship.
DAY 13 (WEDNESDAY): RIGA Before we get acquainted with Riga we have the possibility of discovering medieval Latvia. The optional tour for this morning takes us to the stunning scenery of the Gauja National Park and the town of Sigulda. We listen to the medieval Latvian legend of the Rose of Turaida and see the ruins of the Episcopal Castle and of the Castle of the Knights of the Sword before we return to Riga. The afternoon offers an optional visit to the Ethnographical Open Air Museum, a spacious exposition of 18th century country life. The evening offers an optional organ concert at the Dome Cathedral. DAY 14 (THURSDAY): RIGA Riga, founded in 1201 by the German bishop Albert, is the largest of the three Baltic capitals and boasts a real kaleidoscope of architectural styles. The walking tour of the Old Town includes Riga Castle, the Dome Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, the Swedish Gate, the Three Brothers, the Large and Small Guilds and the Freedom Monument. The afternoon is reserved for an optional visit to Jurmala, the vibrant Latvian sea resort, famous for its wooden architecture and sandy beaches. In the evening we enjoy a Latvian dinner at the stylish Restaurant La Boheme. DAY 15 (FRIDAY): RIGA-TALLINN The tour continues along the coastal highway to the Estonian summer resort of Parnu. We do a short tour of the resort before we continue through the North Estonian land of forests and arrive in Tallinn early afternoon, check-in at the Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar. DAY 16 (SATURDAY): TALLINN Tallinn is a charming blend of medieval tranquility and modern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place in the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenir markets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. The sightseeing tour takes us around the old medieval city walls and into the Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall and Great Guild Hall. In the afternoon an optional excursion is offered to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU, the award-winning new Estonian art museum, with its collections of classic and contemporary fine art. The evening offers an optional medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack. DAY 17 (SUNDAY): TALLINN - HELSINKI In the morning we take the hydrofoil from Tallinn to Helsinki and enjoy a refreshing tour through the Finnish archipelago before arriving in Helsinki. Upon arrival we are transferred to our hotel and check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Royal**** or similar The balance of the day is reserved for exploring the Finnish capital individually.
DAY 18 (MONDAY): HELSINKI Helsinki is truly located at the crossroads of Western and Eastern culture and this is reflected everywhere in the green and lively Finnish capital. The sightseeing tour takes us around the harbors, up central Mannerheim Street and by the Parliament Building, the Finland Hall, and the Sibelius Monument and for a visit at the famous Church-in the-Rock. The afternoon offers an optional excursion to Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, an oasis in the midst of the city with cottages, farmsteads and manors from all around Finland. DAY 19 (TUESDAY): HELSINKI-ST. PETERSBURG Today we continue eastbound to St. Petersburg. Shortly after crossing the border into Russia we arrive in Vyborg, where we take time for a short sightseeing tour and a visit to Vyborg Castle. In the late afternoon we arrive in St. Petersburg and check-in at Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky**** or similar. DAY 20 (WEDNESDAY): ST. PETERSBURG St. Petersburg is an amazing city. Its imperial palaces and museums enjoy worldwide fame, while the Neva River and the many canals have deservedly given the city the title “The Venice of the North”. During the morning sightseeing tour we get acquainted with all the splendours of the city: the Peter-Paul Fortress, the Winter Palace, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, the Church of the Bleeding Saviour, the Nevsky Convent and much more. The afternoon offers an optional visit to Peterhof, an uncontested masterpiece of the time of Peter the Great, with the impressive Grand Palace, Grand Cascade and Water Avenue and its wonderful parks. In the evening enjoy an optional visit to the Nikolaevsky Palace with an exciting Russian folklore show and Russian „champagne” and snacks.
endless Russian landscapes along the River Volga. In the evening we arrive to Moscow and check in at Hotel Novotel Centre Moscow**** or similar. DAY 23 (SATURDAY): MOSCOW Moscow, The Mother of Russia, is a genuine Russian city with the Kremlin and its onion domed cathedrals. The dramatic changes over the last decade have made the city to one of the most dynamic metropolis in the world. The morning sightseeing tour includes all the highlights of the vast city: the Red Square with Kremlin, the Theatre Square with Bolshoi Theatre, Sparrow Hills with Moscow University and a visit to the famous Moscow Metro. In the afternoon is offered an optional excursion to the Kremlin grounds with a visit to the cathedrals. The evening offers an optional excursion with a cruise on the Moscow River. DAY 24 (SUNDAY): MOSCOW The day offers an optional excursion to Novodevichy Convent, a 16th century cluster of sparkling domes, one of the city’s most beautiful groups of buildings and full of history and treasures. The adjacent Novodevichy Cemetery is Moscow‘s most prestigious resting place after the Kremlin. The balance of the day is reserved for an optional excursion to the Tretyakov Gallery with its outstanding collection of French impressionists. The evening offers an optional visit to the Old Russian Circus. DAY 25 (MONDAY): MOSCOW DEPARTURE Optional departure transfer to airport.
DAY 21 (THURSDAY): ST .PETERSBURG The morning is reserved for an optional excursion to Zarskoye Selo with the impressive Catherine’s Palace and the Amber Room, which vanished during World War II and was restored for St. Petersburg’s tricentennial celebrations. In the afternoon, an optional visit to the world-famous Hermitage Art Museum is offered. In the evening we enjoy a Russian dinner at Restaurant Na Zdoroviye. DAY 22 (FRIDAY): ST. PETERSBURG-MOSCOW The early morning is reserved for an optional guided shopping tour to fashion and souvenir boutiques on the Nevsky Prospect. Around noon we go to the Moscow Railway Station and board the Sapsan high-speed train bound for Moscow. The train ride takes us through
Optional: •
•
Transfer airport to Hotel Scandic Copenhagen: EUR 135.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 155.00 for private car/minivan (4-7 persons) Guests will receive details from the tour escort about optional tours
•
Transfer Hotel Novotel Centre Moscow to airport: EUR 80.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 100.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons)
The most scenic, comprehensive and complete tour of Scandinavia, Finland and Russia on the market
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Fabulous Scandinavia June-August 2013, 10 days/9 nights: Dates: GFS06: 06.06-15.06.13 GFS08: 13.06-22.06.13 GFS09: 20.06-29.06.13 GFS10: 04.07-13.07.13 GFS11: 11.07-20.07.13
GFS12: 18.07-27.07.13 GFS14: 01.08-10.08.13 GFS15: 08.08-17.08.13 GFS16: 15.08-24.08.13 GFS18: 15.08-24.08.13
Package prices per person: EUR 1595.00 (double occupancy) EUR 595.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • • • • • •
8 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels 1 overnight at ferry Copenhagen-Oslo OW, outside-cabins 9 x buffet breakfast 3 x dinner (3 x 3-course hotel dinner) Welcome meeting Service of English speaking tour escorts on all tours Service of Spanish speaking tour escorts on all tours Service of 1st class motor coaches and 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary Portage at hotels and ferry terminals
Optional: •
• •
Transfer airport to Hotel Scandic Copenhagen: EUR 135.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 155.00 for private car/minivan (4-7 persons) Guests will receive details from the tour escort about optional tours Transfer Hotel Courtyard Stockholm to airport: EUR 135.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 155.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons)
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DAY 1 (THURSDAY): ARRIVAL COPENHAGEN Arrival in Copenhagen, optional transfer to Hotel Scandic Copenhagen**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting. DAY 2 (FRIDAY): COPENHAGEN-OSLO Copenhagen is Scandinavia’s largest and most lively city and one of Europe’s most romantic capitals with its old castles and churches and charming squares and harbours. The morning sightseeing tour will acquaint us with all the city’s treasures: the Little Mermaid guarding the port, the Royal Castle, Nyhavn with its restaurants and small boats and the City Hall Square. In the afternoon we embark on the DFDS Seaways overnight ferry bound for Oslo. The ferry offers a wide choice of restaurants, bars, shops and much more. DAY 3 (SATURDAY): OSLO-GEILO Founded in 1048 Oslo is Scandinavia’s oldest capital and today it is a very pleasant and casual city with an interesting jumble of historical and modern architecture. Upon arrival in Oslo we start the morning sightseeing tour. We enjoy a walk around the Frogner Park decorated with the unique sculptures of Gustav Vigeland. We pass by the City Hall and the main street, Karl Johan, leading to the Royal Palace. In the early afternoon we continue our journey to the beautiful Hallingdal Valley. We visit Gol and arrive in Geilo, a small town surrounded by mountains. Check-in at Hotel Bardola**** or similar. Dinner at hotel. DAY 4 (SUNDAY): GEILO-BERGEN Today we really enter the breathtaking Norwegian nature. We continue through the Hallingdal Valley, known for its folkloric traditions. We cross the Hardanger mountain plateau and on the descent towards the fjord we pass the famous Voringsfossen Waterfall. We cross the Hardanger Fjord by ferry and continue along its shores to Bergen. Situated on a peninsula surrounded by 7 mountains the history of Bergen is closely connected with the sea and this is very noticeable in the city, especially at the city’s picturesque waterfront. The afternoon sightseeing tour introduces us to this remarkable Hanseatic city with the Bryggen area of old wooden houses, the traditional Fish Market and the city centre with the st. Mary’s Church and Haakon’s Hall. We check-in at Hotel Scandic Neptun**** or similar.
Estonian Manors and Resorts
DAY 5 (MONDAY): BERGEN-STALHEIM The morning is at leisure to explore more of the stunning Norwegian fjord capital. In the early afternoon we travel to the historical town of Voss, which has a scenic background of snow clad mountains. After a break here we continue towards the Naroy Valley and Stalheim, offering a stunning view down the Stalheim Gorge, Check-in at Hotel Stalheim**** or similar. Dinner at hotel. DAY 6 (TUESDAY): STALHEIM-FAGERNES Today we continue through the fjord region with its formidable water-drowned glacial valleys, flanked by impossible rugged terrain to Gudvangen where we cross the Naroyfjord and reach the village of Flam. In the afternoon the journey continues along the Aurlandfjord. We do a photo stop at the famous Borgund Stave Church before we continue to Fagernes. Check-in at Hotel Quality Fagernes**** or similar. Dinner at hotel. DAY 7 (WEDNESDAY): FAGERNES-OSLO After breakfast we leave the majestic Norwegian fjords behind us and travel back towards Oslo which we reach early in the afternoon. Check in at Hotel Radisson Blu Scandinavia**** or similar. The balance of the day is spent for exploring more of the Viking capital. DAY 8 (THURSDAY): OSLO-STOCKHOLM Today we head for Stockholm, passing through Norwegian forests. We cross the border and enter the county of Varmland in Sweden. Throughout the balance of the day we drive through typical Swedish landscapes with fertile farmland, blue lakes and thick forests, which evoke an atmosphere of intriguing fairytales. In the afternoon we arrive at Stockholm. Check-in at Hotel Scandic Grand Central**** or similar. DAY 9 (FRIDAY): STOCKHOLM Stockholm – the beauty on the water – is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, built on 14 islands and protected from the sea by Skargarden, the Stockholm archipelago. The morning sightseeing tour takes us to the Old Town with the Royal Palace, Stockholm Cathedral and the city centre with its famous City Hall. The afternoon is free for individual visits. DAY 10 (SATURDAY): STOCKHOLM DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
July-August 2013, 8 days / 7 nights: Dates: GEM12: 07.07-14.07.13 GEM14: 04.08-11.08.13 GEM16: 18.08-25.08.13
Package prices per person: EUR 595.00 (double occupancy) EUR 250.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • • • • • • •
7 overnights at unique 4 star hotels 7 x buffet breakfast 1 x dinner at Restaurant La Boheme Welcome meeting with champagne cocktail or juice Personalized welcome package Entrance to medieval Great Guild Hall in Tallinn Service of English and German speaking tour escort on all tours Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st class minivan throughout the itinerary Ferry Virtsu-Kuivastu-Virtsu Portage at hotels
Optional: •
• • • •
Transfer airport to Hotel von Stackelberg Tallinn: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 pax), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) 3-hour excursion to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU: EUR 40.00 pp 6-hour excursion around Saaremaa including visit to Episcopal Castle: EUR 80.00 pp 6-hour excursion around Lahemaa National Park including visit to Palmse Manor: EUR 80.00 pp Transfer Hotel Vihula Manor Country Club & Spa to airport: EUR 80.00 for private car (1-3 pax), EUR 120.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons)
DAY 1 (SUNDAY): ARRIVAL TALLINN Arrival in Tallinn, optional transfer to Hotel von Stackelberg Tallinn****, which is located in the restored city estate of Baron Theophil von Stackelberg, check-in, welcome meeting.
to Vihula Manor, a large, charming 16th century estate, which has been painstakingly restored to a comfortable hotel and leisure resort. Check-in at Hotel Vihula Manor Country Club & SPA****.
DAY 2 (MONDAY): TALLINN Tallinn is a charming blend of medieval tranquillity and modern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place in the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenir markets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. During the morning walking tour of the Old Town we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall and Great Guild Hall. In the afternoon an optional excursion is offered to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU, the awardwinning new Estonian art museum, with its collections of classic and contemporary fine art.
DAY 6: (FRIDAY): LAHEMAA The Lahemaa National Park has been a protected park since the 1970es and offers a blend of unspoiled flora and fauna, untouched rivers and lakes, small quaint villages and coastal towns, sandy beaches and old manor houses. During an optional 6-hour trip we visit the ethnographical village in Altja, the harbour in Vergi and the coastal towns of Vosu and Kasmu. The highlight of the trip is the visit to the Palmse Manor, a memorial to the von Pahlen family. On the way back to Vihula we also see the Sagadi Manor, a 17th century restored manor with a beautiful manor house and delightful parks.
DAY 3 (TUESDAY): TALLINN-SAAREMAA After breakfast we leave Tallinn for Haapsalu, a coastal city with a turbulent history dating back to 1291 and a favourite retreat of the Russian czars in the 19th century. We take a stroll through the city centre and visit the large medieval Haapsalu Castle before we continue to Virtsu, where we embark on the ferry to Kuivastu on Muhu Island and from here it is only an hour’s drive to Kuressaare and Hotel Arensburg Boutigue SPA****, check-in. The late afternoon is reserved using the spa facilities at the hotel. DAY 4 (WEDNESDAY): SAAREMAA Saaremaa is the biggest Island in Estonia and during the optional 6-hour tour we explore all its secrets. We start with a tour of Kuressaare, the largest town on the island, where many conquerors have left a worthy heritage of Baroque, Gothic and Classicist architecture. We stroll though the town and visit the Episcopal Castle, the best preserved medieval fortress in Estonia. After that we visit the windmills in Angla, the St. Catherine’s Church in Karja and Kaali Craters before we return to Kuressaare. DAY 5 (THURSDAY): SAAREMAA-LAHEMAA The ferry brings us back to the mainland and we head south for Parnu, the prime summer resort in Estonia. We do a tour of the resort and a leisurely stroll along the beach. After lunch break we head north through a magnificent scenery to Rakvere, a peaceful provincial town still benefiting from its Hanseatic legacy. We stop to see Rakvere Castle and after that a short drive brings us to the Lahemaa National Park and
DAY 7 (SATURDAY): LAHEMAA The day is reserved for leisure and individual activities. Vihula Manor is beautifully set along the Mustoja River forming a pond around which the historical manor buildings are located. Explore the beautiful parks, embark on a hiking tour in the forested area around the estate, enjoy a picnic in the unspoiled nature, discover more about Lahemaa National Park on a bike, visit the sandy beaches at the Baltic Sea, visit the estate’s unique Eco-SPA or the in-door swimming-pool, play a round of mini-golf, visit the Old Water Mill or the Vodka Museum, the options are endless. The tour is concluded with a fine dinner at the stylish Restaurant La Boheme in the main manor house. DAY 8 (SUNDAY): LAHEMAA DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
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DAY 6 (WEDNESDAY): KLAIPEDA-RIGA Klaipeda first became a part of Lithuania in 1923 and had a long history as a German town called Memel. A short sightseeing tour takes us to the Old Town with its narrow, cobblestone streets and old guild houses and we visit the Theatre Square and the Aennchen von Tharau Fountain. We now continue to the Samogitia National Park, where we embark on a walking tour around the picturesque Lake Plateliai. After that we continue to Siauliai and Cross Hills, one of the holiest sites of Catholic Lithuania. We head North into Latvia and reach Riga in the afternoon, check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Latvija**** or similar. The evening offers an optional organ concert at the Dome Cathedral.
Baltic Impressions DAY 1 (FRIDAY): ARRIVAL TALLINN Arrival in Tallinn, optional transfer to Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting.
May-September 2013, 10 days/9 nights: Dates: GBI06: 31.05-09.06.13 GBI07: 07.06-16.06.13 GBI08: 14.06-23.06.13 GBI09: 21.06-30.06.13 GBI10: 28.06-07.07.13 GBI11: 05.07-14.07.13 GBI12: 12.07-21.07.13 GBI13: 19.07-28.07.13
GBI14: 26.07-04.08.13 GBI15: 02.08-11.08.13 GBI16: 09.08-18.08.13 GBI17: 16.08-25.08.13 GBI18: 23.08-01.09.13 GBI19: 30.08-08.09.13 GBI20: 06.09-15.09.13
Package prices per person: EUR 795.00 (double occupancy) EUR 350.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • •
• • •
9 overnights at centrally located 3-4 star hotels 9 x buffet breakfast Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice Personalised welcome package Entrances to Palmse Manor House, Rundale Palace, Old University in Vilnius, St. Peter’s Church in Riga and medieval Great Guild Hall in Tallinn Service of English and German speaking tour escort on all tours Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary Portage at hotels
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DAY 2 (SATURDAY): TALLINN-CESIS After breakfast we drive to the Lahemaa National Park, where we visit the Manor Houses in Palmse and Vihula. We continue to Tartu, the university town, where Estonia gained its statehood. We see the charming Old Town and the University founded in 1632. From Tartu we drive onwards into Latvia to Cesis, a Hanseatic city with winding streets, castle ruins and beautiful gardens. Check-in at Hotel Kolonna Cesis*** or similar.
DAY 5 (TUESDAY): KLAIPEDA The day is reserved for a full-day optional tour to the Curonian Spit, a thin, 100 km stretch of land between the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon with small fishing villages, pine forests and endless sand dunes. Our first stop is the Hill of Witches in Juodkrante. After that we continue to Nida, where we visit the High Dunes, Thomas Mann’s summerhouse and get acquainted with the charming resort town before we drive back to Klaipeda. The evening offers an optional Lithuanian dinner at Restaurant 19th Century.
DAY 7 (THURSDAY): RIGA Riga founded in 1201 by the German bishop Albert is the largest of the 3 Baltic capitals and boasts a true kaleidoscope of various architectural styles. The walking tour of the Old Town includes Riga Castle, Dome Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, Swedish Gates, Three Brothers, Large and Small Guild House and the Freedom Monument. The afternoon is reserved for an optional visit to Jurmala, the vibrant Latvian sea resort, famous for its wooden architecture and sandy beaches. In the evening enjoy an optional Latvian dinner at the stylish Restaurant La Boheme. DAY 8 (FRIDAY): RIGA-TALLINN The tour continues along the coastal highway to the Estonian summer resort of Parnu. We do a short tour of the resort before we continue through the North Estonian land of forests and arrive in Tallinn early afternoon, check-in at the Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar.
DAY 3 (SUNDAY): CESIS-VILNIUS Today we drive through the Gauja National Park to Sigulda, a popular holiday resort. We see the ruins of the Episcopal Castle and the ruins of the Castle of the Knights of the Sword before we drive around Riga to hit the highway down to Vilnius. En route we reach the magnificent Rundale Palace, the former summer residence of the Duke of Courland. Following a guided tour of the palace we travel through Lithuania to reach Vilnius late afternoon. Check in at Hotel Radisson Blu Lietuva**** or similar. DAY 4 (MONDAY): VILNIUS-KLAIPEDA Vilnius is known for its more than 1.200 medieval buildings and 48 churches. The morning sightseeing tour includes a panoramic tour of the city and a walking tour of the Old Town with Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, Peter and Paul Church, St. Anna’s Church, Old University and the Gates of Dawn. After the tour we continue to Trakai, the medieval capital of Lithuania and we visit the well preserved Trakai Castle, beautifully located on an island in Lake Galve. The balance of the day is spent en route to Klaipeda, where we arrive late afternoon. Check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Klaipeda**** or similar.
Optional: •
• • • • •
Transfer airport to Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) 8-hour excursion to the Curonian Spit: EUR 80.00 pp Lithuanian dinner at Restaurant 19th Century: EUR 35.00 pp Organ concert at the Dome Cathedral: EUR 35.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Jurmala: EUR 45.00 pp Latvian dinner at Restaurant La Boheme: EUR 45.00 pp
• • •
•
3-hour excursion to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU: EUR 40.00 pp Medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack: EUR 40.00 pp Transfer Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia to airport: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Half board at hotels (9 x 3 course dinner with coffee/tea): EUR 225.00 pp
DAY 9 (SATURDAY): TALLINN Tallinn is a charming blend of medieval tranquillity and modern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place in the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenir markets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. The sightseeing tour takes us around the old medieval city walls and into the Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall and Great Guild Hall. In the afternoon an optional excursion is offered to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU, the award-winning new Estonian art museum, with its collections of classic and contemporary fine art. The evening offers an optional medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack. DAY 10 (SUNDAY): TALLINN DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
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DAY 12 (TUESDAY): NIDA-KLAIPEDA The last day in paradise. You still have the whole day to enjoy Nida, take a last swim in the Baltic Sea, make the last stroll through the fishermen’s village, enjoy a last breathtaking view of the Curonian Lagoon, do you last bargains in the amber and souvenir stalls in the pedestrian centre of the resort and shoot your last holiday photos from the Curonian Spit. Late in the afternoon we board the coach which brings us up the spit and back to Klaipeda. Check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Klaipeda**** or similar. The evening offers an optional Lithuanian dinner at Restaurant 19th Century.
Baltic Adventure June-September 2013, 16 days/ 15 nights: Dates: GBA07: 07.06-22.06.13 GBA08: 14.06-29.06.13 GBA09: 21.06-06.07.13 GBA10: 28.06-13.07.13 GBA11: 05.07-20.07.13 GBA12: 12.07-27.07.13
GBA13: 19.07-03.08.13 GBA14: 26.07-10.08.13 GBA15: 02.08-17.08.13 GBA16: 09.08-24.08.13 GBA17: 16.08-31.08.13 GBA18: 23.08-07.09.13
Package prices per person: EUR 1095.00 (double occupancy) EUR 500.00 (single supplement)
It is also possible to start to Baltic Adventure tour in Riga or Vilnius FROM RIGA
Dates:
GBR07: 05.06-20.06.13 GBR08: 12.06-27.06.13 GBR09: 19.06-04.07.13 GBR10: 26.06-11.07.13 GBR11: 03.07-18.07.13 GBR12: 10.07-25.07.13
GBR13: 17.07-01.08.13 GBR14: 24.07-08.08.13 GBR15: 31.07-15.08.13 GBR16: 07.08-22.08.13 GBR17: 14.08-29.08.13 GBR18: 21.08-05.09.13
DAY 1 (FRIDAY): ARRIVAL TALLINN Arrival in Tallinn, optional transfer to Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting. DAY 2 (SATURDAY): TALLINN-CESIS After breakfast we drive to the Lahemaa National Park, where we visit the Manor Houses in Palmse and Vihula. We continue to Tartu, the university town, where Estonia gained its statehood. We see the charming Old Town and the University founded in 1632. From Tartu we drive onwards into Latvia and Cesis, a Hanseatic city with winding streets, castle ruins and beautiful gardens. Checkin at Hotel Kolonna Cesis*** or similar. DAY 3 (SUNDAY): CESIS-VILNIUS Today we drive through the Gauja National Park to Sigulda, a popular holiday resort. We see the ruins of the Episcopal Castle and the ruins of the Castle of the Knights of the Sword before we drive around Riga to hit the highway down to Vilnius. En route we reach the magnificent Rundale Palace, the former summer residence of the Duke of Courland. Following a guided tour of the palace we travel through Lithuania to reach Vilnius late afternoon. Check in at Hotel Radisson Blu Lietuva**** or similar. DAY 4 (MONDAY): VILNIUS-KLAIPEDA Vilnius is known for its more than 1.200 medieval buildings and 48 churches. The morning sightseeing tour includes a panoramic tour of the city and a walking tour of the Old Town with Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower,
Peter and Paul Church, St. Anna’s Church, Old University and the Gates of Dawn. After the tour we continue to Trakai, the medieval capital of Lithuania and we visit the well preserved Trakai Castle, beautifully located on an island in Lake Galve. The balance of the day is spent en route to Klaipeda, where we arrive late afternoon. Check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Klaipeda**** or similar. DAY 5 (TUESDAY): KLAIPEDA-NIDA Today we continue to the Curonian Spit, a thin, 100 km stretch of land between the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon with small fishing villages, pine forests and endless sand dunes. The first stop is at the Hill of Witches in Juodkrante. After that we continue to Nida where we visit the High Dunes, Thomas Mann’s Summer House and get acquainted with the charming resort town. Check-in at Hotel Nidos Smilte***. DAY 6 (WEDNESDAY) – DAY 11 (MONDAY): NIDA With its location at the Curonian Lagoon and its combination of old-fashioned fishing village and fashionable sea resort Nida is one of the most attractive places on the entire Baltic Sea Coast You will be spending a whole week on your own in this small paradise and there is enough to do: biking on the spit, hiking in the dunes, boating in the lagoon, swimming in the sea, sun bathing on the sandy beach, playing tennis in the sun, lunching on smoked fish, attending the many summer concerts and enjoying life in full scale.
The tour has one night less in Tallinn and one night more in Riga FROM VILNIUS
Dates:
GBV07: 09.06-24.06.13 GBV08: 16.06-01.07.13 GBV09: 23.06-08.07.13 GBV10: 30.06-15.07.13 GBV11: 07.07-22.07.13 GBV12: 14.07-29.07.13
GBV13: 21.07-05.08.13 GBV14: 28.07-12.08.13 GBV15: 04.08-19.08.13 GBV16: 11.08-26.08.13 GBV17: 18.08-02.09.13 GBV18: 25.08-09.09.13
The tour has one night less in Tallinn and one night more in Vilnius
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Including: • • • • •
15 overnights at centrally located 3-4 star hotels 15 x buffet breakfast Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice Personalised welcome package Entrances to Palmse Manor House, Rundale Palace, Old University in Vilnius, Thomas Mann’s Summerhouse in Nida, and St. Peter’s Church in Riga
• • • •
Service of English and German speaking tour escort on all tours (no tour escort Day 06-12 in Nida) Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary Ferry tickets Klaipeda – Smiltyne – Klaipeda and ecological fees for the Curonian Spit Portage at hotels
DAY 13 (WEDNESDAY): KLAIPEDA-RIGA Klaipeda first became a part of Lithuania in 1923 and had a long history as a German town called Memel. A short sightseeing tour takes us to the Old Town with its narrow, cobblestone streets and old guild houses and we visit the Theatre Square and the Aennchen von Tharau Fountain. We now continue to the Samogitia National Park, where we enjoy a walking tour around the picturesque Lake Plateliai (2 hours, medium). After that we continue to Siauliai and Cross Hills, one of the holiest sites of Catholic Lithuania. We head North into Latvia and reach Riga in the afternoon. Check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Latvija**** or similar. The evening offers an optional organ concert at the Dome Cathedral. DAY 14 (THURSDAY): RIGA Riga founded in 1201 by the German bishop Albert is the largest of the 3 Baltic capitals and boasts a true kaleidoscope of various architectural styles. The walking tour of the Old Town includes Riga Castle, Dome Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, Swedish Gates, Three Brothers, Large and Small Guild House and the Freedom Monument. The afternoon is reserved for an optional visit to Jurmala, the vibrant Latvian sea resort, famous for its wooden architecture and sandy beaches. In the evening enjoy an optional Latvian dinner at the stylish Restaurant La Boheme. DAY 15 (FRIDAY): RIGA-TALLINN The tour continues along the coastal highway to the Estonian summer resort of Parnu. We do a short tour of the resort before we continue through the North Estonian land of forests and arrive in Tallinn early afternoon, check-in at the Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar. Tallinn is a charming blend of medieval tranquillity and modern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place in the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenir markets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. The afternoon sightseeing tour takes us around the old medieval city walls and into the Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and medieval Old Town Hall. DAY 16 (SATURDAY): TALLINN DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
Optional: •
• • •
Transfer airport to Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Lithuanian dinner at Restaurant 19th Century: EUR 35.00 pp Organ concert at the Dome Cathedral: EUR 35.00 pp 4-hour excursion to Jurmala: EUR 45.00 pp
• •
•
Latvian dinner at Restaurant La Boheme: EUR 45.00 pp Transfer Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia to airport: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Half board at hotels (15 x 3 course dinner with coffee/ tea): EUR 340.00 pp
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and the Curonian Lagoon with small fishing villages, pine forests and endless sand dunes. Our first stop is at the Hill of Witches in Juodkrante. After that we continue to Nida and embark on a walking tour around the High Dunes (3 hours medium) and get acquainted with the charming resort town before we drive back to Klaipeda. The evening offers an optional Lithuanian dinner at Restaurant 19th Century.
Baltic Hiking July-August 2013, 10 days/9 nights: Dates: GHI11: 05.07-14.07.13 GHI13: 19.07-28.07.13 GHI15: 02.08-11.08.13
Package prices per person: EUR 895.00 (double occupancy) EUR 350.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • •
• • • •
9 overnights at centrally located 3-4 star hotels 9 x buffet breakfast Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice Personalized welcome package Entrances to Rundale Palace, Old University in Vilnius, St. Peter’s Church and Towers in Riga and medieval Great Guild Hall in Tallinn Service of English and German speaking tour escort on all tours Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st class minivans throughout the itinerary Ferry tickets Klaipeda-Smiltyne-Klaipeda and ecological fees at the Curonian Spit Portage at hotels
Max 31 persons in the groups. The tours are recommended for guests in normal physical conditions between 35-65 years
Optional: •
• • • • •
•
Transfer airport to Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Lithuanian dinner at Restaurant 19th Century: EUR 35.00 pp Organ concert at the Dome Cathedral: EUR 35.00 pp Latvian dinner at Restaurant La Boheme: EUR 40.00 pp Medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack: EUR 40.00 pp Transfer Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia to airport: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Half board at hotels (9 x 3 course dinner with coffee/tea): EUR 225.00 pp
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DAY 1 (FRIDAY): ARRIVAL TALLINN Arrival in Tallinn, optional transfer to Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting. DAY 2 (SATURDAY): TALLINN-CESIS After breakfast we drive to the Lahemaa National Park, where we embark on a walking tour through the park (2 hours, medium). We continue to Tartu, the University Town, where Estonian gained its statehood. We see the charming Old Town and the University founded in 1632. From Tartu we drive onwards into Latvia to Cesis, a Hanseatic city with winding streets, castle ruins and beautiful gardens. Check-in at Hotel Kolonna Cesis*** or similar. DAY 3 (SUNDAY): CESIS-VILNIUS Today we drive through the Gauja National Park to Ligatne Wild-Life Park. We enjoy a walking tour through the park, where bears, deer, elks and other wild animals live in a fenced-off enclosure of natural habitat (2 hours, medium). After a visit to Sigulda, a popular holiday resort, we drive around Riga to hit the highway down to Vilnius. En route we reach the magnificent Rundale Palace, the former summer residence of the Duke of Courland. Following a guided tour of the palace we travel through Lithuania to reach Vilnius late afternoon. Check in at Hotel Radisson Blu Lietuva**** or similar. DAY 4 (MONDAY): VILNIUS-KLAIPEDA Vilnius is known for its more than 1.200 medieval buildings and 48 churches. The morning sightseeing tour includes a panoramic tour of the city and a walking tour of the Old Town with Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, Peter and Paul Church, St. Anna’s Church, Old University and the Gates of Dawn. After the tour we continue to Trakai, the medieval capital of Lithuania, where do a walking tour in the area around the well preserved Trakai Castle, beautifully located on an island in Lake Galve (2 hours, light). The balance of the day is spent en route to Klaipeda, where we arrive late afternoon. Check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Klaipeda**** or similar. DAY 5 (TUESDAY): KLAIPEDA The day is reserved for a full-day tour to the Curonian Spit, a thin, 100 km stretch of land between the Baltic Sea
DAY 6 (WEDNESDAY): KLAIPEDA-RIGA Klaipeda first became a part of Lithuania in 1923 and had a long history as a German town called Memel. A short sightseeing tour takes us to the Old Town with its narrow, cobblestone streets and old guild houses and we visit the Theatre Square and the Aennchen von Tharau Fountain. We now continue to the Samogitia National Park, where we enjoy a walking tour around the picturesque Lake Plateliai (2 hours, medium). After that we continue to Siauliai and Cross Hills, one of the holiest sites of Catholic Lithuania. We head North into Latvia and reach Riga in the afternoon. Check-in at Hotel Radisson Blu Latvija**** or similar. The evening offers an optional organ concert at the Dome Cathedral. DAY 7 (THURSDAY): RIGA Riga founded in 1201 by the German bishop Albert is the largest of the 3 Baltic capitals and boasts a true kaleidoscope of various architectural styles. The walking tour of the Old Town includes Riga Castle, Dome Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, Swedish Gates, Three Brothers, Large and Small Guild House and the Freedom Monument. The afternoon is reserved for visit to Jurmala, the vibrant Latvian sea resort, famous for its wooden architecture and sandy beaches. We do a walking tour on the sandy beaches from Pumpuri to Bulduri (3 hours, light).In the evening we enjoy an optional Latvian dinner at the stylish Restaurant La Boheme. DAY 8 (FRIDAY): RIGA-TALLINN The tour continues along the coastal highway to the Estonian summer resort of Parnu. We do a short tour of the resort before we continue through the North Estonian land of forests and arrive in Tallinn early afternoon, check-in at the Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar. DAY 9 (SATURDAY): TALLINN Tallinn is a charming blend of medieval tranquillity and modern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place in the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenir markets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. The sightseeing tour takes us around the old medieval city walls and into the Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall and Great Guild Hall. In the afternoon we do a walking tour through the Kadriorg Park and the area surrounding the Kadriorg Palace. The evening offers an optional medieval dinner at Restaurant Peppersack. DAY 10 (SUNDAY): TALLINN DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
DAY 5: LIEPAJA-JURMALA-RIGA Liepaja takes its name from the numerous lime trees in the city and we start the day with a short stroll in the Old Town with its Trinity Church. Afterwards we drive through the former Duchy of Courland to Kemeri, where we enjoy a 25 km biking tour through the Kemeri National Park, The balance of the day is spent for visiting Jurmala, the vibrant Latvian sea resort, famous for its wooden architecture and sandy beaches. We reach Riga early in the late afternoon. Check-in at Hotel Days Riga*** or similar.
Baltic Biking July-August 2013, 10 days/9 nights: Dates: Tallinn-Vilnius GBB02: 24.07-02.08.13
Vilnius-Tallinn GBB01: 15.07-24.07.13 GBB03: 02.08-11.08.13
Package prices per person: EUR 895.00 (double occupancy) EUR 250.00 (single supplement)
Including: • • • • • • • •
9 overnights at 3-4-star hotels 9 x buffet breakfast Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice Personalized welcome package Service of English and German speaking tour escort on all tours Service of 1st class motor coach throughout the itinerary Ferry tickets Klaipeda – Smiltyne – Klaipeda and ecological fees for the Curonian Spit Bicycle rental
Bikes are new modern Estonian produced tour bikes, model comfort and cruiser, 3-6 speeds, hand or foot brakes, equipped with bike bags, luggage boots, mud flaps, reflectors, bells and helmet. Child seat available upon request. Max 21 persons in the groups. The tours are recommended for guests in normal physical conditions between 35-65 years
Optional: •
•
•
Transfer airport to Hotel Europa City Vilnius: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Transfer Hotel City Portus airport: EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private minivan (4-7 persons) Half board (9 x 3 course dinner with coffee/ tea): EUR 150.00 pp
DAY 1: ARRIVAL VILNIUS Arrival in Vilnius, optional transfer to Hotel Europa City Vilnius*** or similar, check-in, welcome meeting. DAY 2: VILNIUS-TRAKAI-KAUNAS Vilnius is known for its more than 1.200 medieval buildings and 48 churches. The morning sightseeing tour include a panoramic tour of the city and a walking tour of the Old Town with Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, Peter and Paul Church, St. Anna’s Church, Old University and the Gates of Dawn. In the afternoon we continue to Trakai, the medieval capital of Lithuania, with the well preserved Trakai Castle, beautifully located on an island in Lake Galve. We enjoy a 15 km biking tour in the surroundings of Trakai. We continue to Kaunas and take a short stroll in the Old Town with its elegant Old Town Hall and Gothic cathedral. Check in at Hotel Magnus *** or similar. DAY 3: KAUNAS-NIDA-KLAIPEDA We get up early to continue the tour in the direction of the Curonian Spit, a 100 km spit of land between the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon with small fishing villages, pine forests and endless sand dunes. A ferry from Klaipeda takes us to the Spit and we do down the spit to Nida. With it location at the Curonian Lagoon and its combination of old-fashioned fishing village and fashionable sea resort, Nida is one of the most attractive places on the entire Baltic Sea Coast. We visit the High Dunes, Thomas Mann’s summerhouse and get acquainted with the charming resort town. In the late afternoon we enjoy a 30 km biking tour from Nida to Juodkrante before we go back to Klaipeda and check-in at Hotel Memel*** or similar. DAY 4: KLAIPEDA-PALANGA-LIEPAJA Klaipeda first became a part of Lithuania in 1923 and has a long history as a German town called Memel. The sightseeing tour takes us to the Old Town with its narrow cobblestone streets and old guild houses and we visit the Theatre Square and the Aennchen von Tharau Fountain. We now enjoy a 30 km biking tour to Palanga, where we make a sightseeing tour and visit the in the Botanical Gardens with the Amber Museum in the former Tiskevicius Palace before we continue into Latvia and arrive in Liepaja. Check-in at Hotel Europa City Amrita**** or similar.
DAY 6: RIGA-SIGULDA-CESIS Riga founded in 1201 by the German bishop Albert is the largest of the 3 Baltic capitals and boasts a true kaleidoscope of various architectural styles. The walking tour of the Old Town includes Riga Castle, Dome Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, Swedish Gates, Three Brothers, Large and Small Guild House and the Freedom Monument. In the afternoon we continue to Saulkrasti and do a 30 km biking tour to Sigulda, a popular holiday resort. We see the ruins of the Episcopal Castle and the ruins of the Castle of the Knights of the Sword. We continue to Cesis and check-in at Hotel Kolonna Cesis*** or similar. DAY 7: CESIS-TARTU Cesis is a Hanseatic city with winding streets, castle ruins and beautiful gardens. During the morning tour we see the ruins of the Castle of the Livonian Order and St. John’s Church. We head to Estonia and the Hanja Nature Park where we do a 30 km biking tour through the national park and around the Munamagi Hill, the biggest hill in the Baltic countries at just 300 m. We continue on to Tartu. Check-in at Hotel Tartu*** or similar. DAY 8: TARTU-LAHEMAA Tartu is the university town, where Estonia gained its statehood. During the morning tour we see the charming Old Town and the University founded in 1632. After the tour we head for Lake Peipus and in the middle of the day we enjoy a 40 km biking tour from Kolka via Kallaste to Raja along the lake. The balance of the day is spent on a drive to the Lahemaa National Park. Check-in at Hotel Vihula Manor Country Club & Spa**** or similar. DAY 9: LAHEMAA-TALLINN The day starts with a 45 km biking tour through the Lahemaa National Park from Vihula via Sagadi and Palmse to Kasmu and the Kasmu Peninsula and afterwards we continue to Tallinn. Tallinn is a charming blend of medieval tranquillity and modern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place in the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenir markets, out-doors cafés and restaurants. The sightseeing tour takes us around the old medieval city walls and into the Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall and Great Guild Hall. Check in at Hotel City Portus*** or similar. DAY 10: TALLINN DEPARTURE Optional transfer to the airport.
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