Best of Eastern Europe – April 17 to October 23, 2026 (11 Days) - From £1,245

Welcome to Rome! This morning, meet your tour leader and tour group to begin this eastern European adventure! Then, leave Rome's churches and basilicas behind as the tour heads to Venice's enchanting canals. Keep an eye out for iconic sights like the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's Square. Tonight is free to spend as you wish. Opt for the An Evening in Venice optional excursion to experience a gondola ride and water taxi on Venice's waterways, offering a unique perspective of this remarkable city! This excursion also includes a delicious dinner.Please note: This tour does not include Rome accommodation. An optional 2-night Rome pre-tour accommodation add-on is available - please contact Expat Explore for more information.

Today’s first destination is Slovenia's capital, Ljubljana! This capital city is often described as a hidden European gem because of its natural beauty, castles, and stunning architecture. Upon arrival, enjoy an orientation tour led by your tour leader. Then, journey to Zagreb, Croatia's capital, for an orientation walk highlighting its fascinating blend of Hapsburg and Communist architecture. Delve into Zagreb's history, culture, and daily life during free time. Then, check into your hotel and freshen up before an included dinner this evening.

Venture across the border to Hungary today, pausing at the scenic Lake Balaton before reaching Budapest. Cited as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Budapest charms with its Danube River setting, numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and natural geothermal springs. Explore the city with a locally guided driving tour, then enjoy free time this evening. Why not indulge in the city's bathhouses, sample local cuisine, or admire its striking architecture on a leisurely stroll? Tonight, join the Danube Dinner Cruise optional excursion for a unique view of Budapest's twilight glow.

This morning, journey to Bratislava, Slovakia's capital, nestled amidst mountains, vineyards, ski runs, and wilderness! Upon arrival, embark on an orientation tour of the city and see if you can spot Bratislava Castle. Then, continue to Vienna, Austria's capital. Arrive and join a local guide on a walking and driving tour of Austria’s cultural hub, uncovering its classical heritage, renowned concert halls, museums, palaces, and vibrant nightlife. Tonight, enjoy authentic Viennese cuisine at a local restaurant.

Enjoy a free day to immerse yourself in Vienna's imperial grandeur today! Once the centre of the powerful Habsburg monarchy, which dominated Europe between the 16th-18th centuries, history enthusiasts will be captivated by the era's incredible palaces. Delve into this legacy by visiting Schönbrunn Palace on an optional excursion, including a visit to a historic Viennese café for coffee and cake. Classical music lovers can join the optional excursion to attend a concert featuring music from the legendary Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, showcasing Vienna's rich musical heritage from the classical period. This excursion includes a delicious, three-course dinner before the concert held in the Schönbrunn Palace Orangery.

The tour heads to the Czech Republic today! Arrive in the beautiful city of Prague, adorned with diverse and elaborate architectural styles and hidden gems. Join a walking tour led by a local guide, unveiling must-see landmarks like the Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the Charles Bridge. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to further discover Prague's charms. Explore its enchanting lanes, quirky bars, secluded courtyards, and historical treasures at your leisure. This evening, indulge in an optional four-course dinner accompanied by traditional Czech folk music and dance to make the most of your cultural experience in this vibrant city.

The tour's first stop today is in the German city of Dresden. This city was meticulously reconstructed after the WW2 bombings destroyed the city centre and today boasts an immaculate and stylish finish. Explore with an orientation walk and enjoy free time afterward to wander the beautifully paved streets and savour local delights like Bratwurst. Then, travel to Berlin, Germany's capital, for a driving tour. Visit poignant landmarks including the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, and Checkpoint Charlie.

Take advantage of this free day to immerse yourself in Berlin's history. Consider joining the optional Berlin+ tour for a guided exploration of the city's rich past and contemporary culture. Reflect on the Berlin Wall's significance, now adorned with vibrant street art, symbolising resilience and acknowledging the city's history without defining it. Explore Berlin's free museums and galleries, offering insights into its modern history and cultural heritage. The city is yours to discover as you will!

This morning, say auf Wiedersehen to Germany as the tour heads to the Netherlands. Watch the landscape transform into windmills and waterways en route to Amsterdam, the capital city. This evening, enjoy a twilight canal cruise with insightful commentary on the city's history and development. Then, dine at a local restaurant before exploring Amsterdam's bars, cafés, or the infamous Red Light District at your leisure.

Indulge in a full day of exploration of Amsterdam today! Visit renowned museums like the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, or Van Gogh Museum. Alternatively, opt for the Dutch countryside excursion to witness cheese and clog-making, and visit the charming villages of Volendam and Zaanse Schans to see their iconic windmills. As it's the last night of the tour, consider joining the Dutch Pancake Soiree optional excursion for a delightful farewell dinner with fellow travellers!

Leave Amsterdam and enjoy a picturesque stop in Bruges, Belgium, before setting off to the UK. Known as the 'Venice of the North', Bruges may be small but that just adds to its charm and so does its breathtaking architecture! Explore this quaint city and treat yourself to authentic Belgian waffles or beer. Then, journey back to London, crossing the English Channel on the way. Share contact details with newfound friends as you prepare to disembark in the capital. After 11 days of unforgettable travel, this Eastern Europe tour comes to an end in London this evening. Safe travel onwards!