History and Culture in Prague and East Germany

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Berlin

   A vibrant cosmopolitan city that’s rich in history and contemporary culture, Berlin is constantly evolving. From the ruins of World War II to the Cold War division of the Berlin wall, Berlin has always managed to rebuild. Germany's largest city, this sprawling (by European standards) metropolis has excellent public transportation, from subways to an official rowboat ferry. You’ll find a little of everything here, from history to high gastronomy, art museums to palaces, and plenty of lively bars and nightclubs. The nightlife here is world-class, but there’s more than enough to see during the day. Berlin is made up of distinctive neighborhoods, each with a different character. We recommend several ways of exploring the city, from a Cold War walking tour to a bike tour to see all the must-see sights in a simple and easy way. An exploration of the long and volatile history of Jewish culture in the city is eye-opening as Jewish life in Berlin has been meticulously documented. Many of the city’s art and culture museums offer unforgettable glimpses into history. Potsdam offers the perfect diversion for an afternoon, and Sanssouci Palace, with its well-tended gardens, is a beautiful reminder of the city’s impressive past. The past comes alive in Berlin, but the present is very much alive as well.

   Welcome to Berlin! When you arrive at Berlin Brandenburg airport, we'll arrange for a driver to pick you up from the airport and take you to your accommodations. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes.

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Berlin

   

   Berlin City Group Tour

   Enjoy a three hour walking tour and delve into the turbulent and far-reaching history of Berlin, from its humble beginnings as a fishing village through to the momentous events of the 20th century, when it was the capital of the Nazi Third Reich, then a divided city during the Cold War and, ultimately, the modern capital of a reunified Germany

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   A Museum Paradise

   The historical significance of Berlin as a former imperial capital and its current status as a thriving global cultural hub are vividly reflected in its diverse array of museums, offering an abundance of choices to explore. For enthusiasts of art and archaeology, a visit to Museum Island is a must. This UNESCO-listed museum complex boasts a world-renowned art collection spanning across seven museums. Adjacent to this cultural treasure, the German History Museum, situated on the site of a thwarted assassination attempt against Hitler, provides a comprehensive journey through German history, from its earliest settlements to the present day. Berlin's museums promise a captivating exploration of its rich and multifaceted cultural tapestry.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

3. Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Berlin

   

   Cold War Group Walking Tour

   By the end of WWII, Berlin, the capital of defeated Nazi Germany, lay in ruins. Yet it was to become the epicentre of the Cold War, a pivotal city in the struggle between two superpowers to control war-torn Europe. Your specialist guide will take you to one of the longest remaining stretches of the Berlin Wall and share with you the intriguing history behind its construction and how it went up overnight, as well as tragic stories of the impact on Berliners, who woke up the next morning to a divided city.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Varied Districts and Green Spaces

   Berlin's a vast and sprawling city with some very diverse neighborhoods. You definitely couldn't explore all of our suggestions in a day so we feel it's best to pick one that fits your interests.

   From artsy Kreuzberg to bustling Mitte or leafy Prenzlauer Berg theres so much to explore. Berlin's a city with something for everyone. Get some inspiration from our blog post about six of Berlin's distinct districts or pick a cafe to hang out in. If you are visiting Berlin in summer, we suggest visiting The Tiergarten, which is the city’s largest park and is centered around The Victory Column, which offers incredible views over the city.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

4. Day 4 Your Third Full Day in Berlin

   

   Palatial Potsdam

   Potsdam is a cultural and architectural epicenter that's well worth a visit. Since it's only 30 minutes from Berlin's center by train (the two cities share a border), don't hesitate to visit this relaxed but palatial town. We suggest a walk through the historic part of Potsdam to the gardens containing former royal palaces like Sanssouci, the home of Friedrich the Great. There are plenty of places to relax and areas to explore. And if you are more adventurous, you can also rent a bike in Berlin and take it with you for this day trip.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 6-7 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

   

   Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial Site Group Tour

   After meeting your guide at the Friedrichstrasse train station you'll take a train to the nearby town of Oranienburg and then on to Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp, a mile away. You’ll learn about notable prisoners, such as Stalin’s son, British commandos executed as spies, and homosexuals forced to test military equipment and break in boots through endless marches. The tour will also cover what happened once the Red Army arrived and the camp was turned over to its new owner, the precursor to the KGB. A dark, yet fascinating history awaits on this walking tour.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 6 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

5. Day 5 Traveling to Dresden by Train / Arrival in Dresden

   

   Discover a very different German city - Dresden. Regular train connections between Berlin and Dresden mean you can choose your departure time and the journey takes around two hours. Your hotel reception will be able to arrange a taxi for you to Berlin's Hauptbahnhof station, which is much cheaper than a transfer service, so we haven’t included that in your package. However, a transfer can be arranged upon request. Once on the train, all you need to do is unwind and watch the German countryside speeding by. Your package includes second class tickets with seat reservations, upgrades to first are available for an additional fee.

   

   You can upgrade your transfer

   Dresden by Private Transfer to with a Stop in Spreewald

   Upgrade for an additional cost

   Dresden has had one of the most volatile histories of any city in Europe, being almost totally reduced to rubble in World War II. The city today is a unique combination of remembered and honored history and a vibrant, entertaining present. There are several historical buildings throughout the city that attest to the destruction here, but Dresden has rejuvenated itself since World War II, and today is one of Germany’s most tourist-friendly cities, with an enchanting energy and entertainment all year round. Famous for its Christmas markets, Dresden also has plenty to offer in the warmer months, from museums and memorials, to intriguing new architecture, pleasant parks, and nearby destinations for day trips. History comes alive everywhere you look in Dresden, and we highly recommend taking a closer look at the city’s museums and the traces of the past in the architecture. The city also has a rich cultural program, with numerous galleries and concert taking place quite regularly. You can certainly sample hearty German cuisine here, as well as more modern Continental flavours. You’ll love exploring this lovely city and the surrounding region.

   When you arrive at Dresden Hauptbahnhof you will easily find the station’s taxi rank signposted. We haven’t included a transfer here because in our experience meet & greet transfer services in Dresden are very overpriced, unreliable and the driver can be hard to locate in the station. Dresden's taxis are honest, reasonably priced and you’ll have no problem finding one at the station’s taxi rank, so you’ll save both time and money by taking one to your centrally located accommodation.

   

   The Jewel Box of Europe

   For something unique, visit the “Green Vault” in the Neumarkt section of the old town. Here you will find the largest treasure trove in Europe, if not the world. Located within Dresden’s main palace, the architecture alone is exceptional, with its mix of modern and Baroque elements, to say nothing of its glittering collection. A true gem, you could spend a good portion of the day just looking over its literal gems.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

6. Day 6 Your First Full Day in Dresden

   

   Dresden Old Town Private Walking Tour

   Exploring Dresden’s historic Old Town is an absolute must for anyone wanting to truly experience the city. Wander through the magnificent Theatre Square, home to the world-renowned Semper Opera House, and marvel at the Baroque splendor of Zwinger Palace, with its iconic Crown Gate and picturesque festival square. Stroll along galleries adorned with fountains, and visit Taschenbergpalais, once the residence of the famous Countess Cosel. Dresden stands as a vibrant cultural hub, steeped in history and timeless charm
   

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 2 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   A Day Trip to Meissen

   Meissen is a quaint German city that is one of our favorite destinations for a day trip outside Dresden. Here you can explore a 15th century castle and cathedral, and also admire the lovely architecture and cobblestone streets. The city is world-famous for its porcelain, so a visit to the factory shop should definitely be on the agenda. Domkeller and Frauenkirche are Meissen's two famous cathedrals, and both are beautiful. You'll love settling into the slow pace of life here. For more information about Meissen, please read our blog post.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

   

   Wander in the Footsteps of Wagner

   If you're a classical music fan you're in luck, because none other than the great German composer Richard Wagner spent many productive years in Dresden. We recommend taking a walking tour with an expert local guide who'll show you all of the most significant Wagner sites in the city, including places where he composed and conducted. You'll practically hear the music as the past comes alive for you.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 2 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

7. Day 7 Traveling to Prague by Train / Arrival in Prague

   

   You're headed south to the capital of the Czech Republic, magical Prague. Your hotel reception will be able to arrange a taxi for you, much more economically than a transfer service, so we haven’t included that in your package but can do should you wish. From there you will take a train to Prague. Your package includes 2nd class tickets with seat reservations. 1st class tickets can be arranged for an additional fee. The journey takes around 2 hours 15 minutes.

   

   You can upgrade your transfer

   Prague by Private Transfer with a Stop in the Bohemian Switzerland

   Upgrade for an additional cost

   “The Golden City,” “The City of 100 Spires,” “The Mother of Cities,” Prague has no shortage of nicknames paying homage to its charm and beauty. Prague’s winding cobblestone streets, gorgeous architecture and atmospheric bridges are fabled. Get up early and stroll across the statue-lined Charles Bridge. Soak it from the magnificent Old Town Square with its 600-year old astronomical clock. From exploring history and modern culture on foot, to traveling farther afield to take in the picturesque countryside and fairytale villages, you’ll have an itinerary full of adventure and relaxation. Besides the city’s history, evident on every street, especially in the beautifully preserved former Jewish Quarter, you can delve into the city’s gastronomy. You can literally dive into some of Europe’s best beers by visiting a beer spa, or explore its beloved breweries with walking tours, or enjoy a dinner cruise. Day-trip destinations include scenic castles, the perfect spa town, and Kutna Hora with its “bone church” and gothic cathedral. Prague is a city of history that comes to life for every visitor, no matter their interests.

   When you arrive at Prague's train station, we will have a driver there to meet you and take you to your accommodation.

   

   Stroll the Centuries

   One of the main reasons to visit Prague is because it steadily grew for centuries, building and preserving grand examples of various architectural styles. Largely spared from the effects of WWII, this city is a showcase of many styles at their best, from Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance, to Art Nouveau and even styles popular among Communist architects.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

8. Day 8 Your First Full Day in Prague

   

   Prague Private Walking Tour

   This three-hour walking tour of the Golden City is the ideal way to get to know the beautiful historic center of Prague. You will walk the Royal Route, originally used for the king's coronation procession. The walk takes you through the center of Old Town, where you'll see all of the most famous sights, and also learn about the fascinating history that has made Prague a unique destination throughout the ages. Crossing Charles Bridge, your guide will tell you all the stories of the past as you head up to Lesser Town, where the tour finishes.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Prague Castle Private Tour with Interiors

   This tour of Prague Castle is the best way to quickly and easily take in the main star of the city's skyline. Your guide will pick you up at your accommodation and take you to the castle by tram. Once inside the castle grounds, you'll see the most impressive sites while your guide fills you in on the vibrant history of the area and its importance for the Czech nation. Highlights of the tour include the Basilica of St. George, the Golden Lane, Daliborka Tower, the Royal Gardens and the Old Royal Palace, to name just a few. In three hours you'll take in all the must-sees at the castle, as well as a few hidden gems.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

9. Day 9 Your Second Full Day in Prague

   

   Karlstejn Castle Private Half Day Trip

   If you're fond of castles, Karlstejn is an absolute must-see. Located 20 miles outside Prague, this High Gothic castle was founded by Emperor Charles IV in the mid-14th century to safeguard his collection of holy relics and the Holy Roman Empire's crown jewels. This tour includes an hour-long group tour of this imperial castle's interior, including Charles IV's private rooms, reception halls, and treasury, as well as stops en route, such as the "Czech Grand Canyon."

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 6 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   For Art and History Lovers

   Prague is so full of fascinating sights that it's easy to miss some of the best. For a little bit of peace and quiet, visit the Convent of Saint Anges of Bohemia, where you can find an exhibition on medieval art, and can find tranquility in the gardens, decorated by contemporary Czech sculptures. Our second tip is the Clementinum, a large complex of chapels and other buildings that collectively host the National Library. You can join one of the daily guided tours, or take in a concert in the Mirror Chapel. For more information visit the official Clementinum website.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

10. Day 10 Departure Day

    A driver will pick you up at your accommodation based on your flight time and transfer you to Prague airport for your departure.