2013 - APT Europe River Cruising

Łazienki Palace, set on an artificial island on Łazienki Lake in Warsaw Day 6. Berlin, Freedom of Choice Inclusions. Enjoy a choice of Freedom of Choice Inclusions in Berlin today. You may like to take a guided bicycle tour along the Berlin Wall and learn about the history behind Germany's divide and subsequent reunification. Alternatively, enjoy a cruise through the city on the pretty Spree River or visit Museum Island, a World Heritage-listed complex of internationally renowned museums and galleries. After your selected activity, the afternoon and evening is yours at leisure to further explore the bustling German capital. POLAND – EUROPE'S BEST KEPT SECRET Day 7. Berlin, Warsaw, Freedom of Choice Inclusions. Departing Berlin after breakfast this morning, board a train bound for Poland and its lovely capital, Warsaw. On arrival, check in to your hotel. This evening, you may like to dine at the stylish Marconi Restaurant within Le Méridien Bristol. Alternatively, perhaps indulge in a special dinner at Kresowa Hawira – a traditional Polish inn that features classic cuisine alongside wonderful performances of folk music. Two Night Stay: Warsaw, Le Méridien Bristol. Day 8. Warsaw. Warsaw is an extraordinary city in which buildings, palaces, churches and architectural complexes, destroyed during World War II, have been reconstructed with great care. On a tour here, you'll gain a glimpse into the effect that the war had on the city and its people. Visit the site of the Jewish Ghetto then head to Łazienki Park, where you'll see Łazienki Palace, set on an artificial island 140 on Łazienki Lake. Then, take an excursion to 17th-century Wilanów Palace, a spectacular second home to many Polish kings over time and one of Poland's most important cultural monuments. Later, enjoy a musical celebration of locally-born composer Frédéric Chopin during a concert performance of his work. B B Day 9. Warsaw, Czestochowa, Kraków. This morning, travel to the city of Kraków, the seat of Polish kings for five centuries. On the way, stop off at Czestochowa. Visit Jasna Góra Monastery to see the Black Madonna, a holy icon of the Virgin Mary and Poland's holiest relic as well as one of the country's national symbols. Then travel to the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum for a tour revealing the tragic history of the concentration camp. Two Night Stay: Sheraton Kraków Hotel. BD Day 10. Kraków, Freedom of Choice BD Inclusions. Today, choose from a guided walking tour of Kraków or perhaps visit Oskar Schindler's Factory Museum to uncover one of the most fascinating stories of the war. This afternoon, visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine, which began operating in the 13th century and only stopped in 2007. At this World Heritage-listed site, see statues and even an intricate chapel carved from salt. THE BLUE DANUBE Day 12. Budapest. Today a tour includes such places as the Fisherman's Bastion, the Royal Palace, Buda Castle and many more. Afterwards, visit the Hungarian State Opera House, one of the world's finest examples of Neo-Renaissance architecture. Absorb the grandeur of the building then venture inside for a tour, a glass of champagne and a private opera recital of two or three ariettas. Tonight, enjoy the Captain's Gala Welcome Dinner. Afterwards, take in the sparkling lights along the river as your ship departs Budapest and cruises through the city. BLD Day 13. Vienna. Disembark in the lovely Austrian capital of Vienna this morning. Enjoy a tour of this historic city followed by coffee and a traditional 'Sachertorte' chocolate cake at Café Hofburg, set in the inner courtyard of the Imperial Palace. After dinner on board, visit Albertina, a Viennese palace built in 1744 in the Neoclassical style. Here, after a Cocktail Reception, discover why Vienna is known as Europe's centre of classical music during a special private concert. BLD Day 14. Vienna, Freedom of Choice B TRAVEL TO BUDAPEST, EMBARK CRUISE Day 11. Budapest. Travel to Budapest, where 11 Day (EULE11) guests depart the tour with a transfer to the airport. Remaining guests board your river ship and begin your cruise. 14 Night Stay: one of APT's luxurious Aria or Concerto river ships. BD Inclusions. Today perhaps enjoy a guided tour of majestic Schönbrunn Palace. You may instead choose to explore the Fine Arts Museum then head to the Imperial Treasury, which houses the Hofburg Crown Jewels. Alternatively visit Vienna's famous Spanish Riding School and enjoy a guided tour, then explore the Imperial Crypt. Or perhaps embark on an excursion to Bratislava, the capital of nearby Slovakia, and see the key landmarks of the city. BLD

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