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Best of Berlin, Prague & Vienna in 12 Days Tour
Any listing of Europe's great cities must include these three, where a banquet of travel thrills awaits you. Beginning in Berlin and ending in Vienna — with Prague, Dresden, and the Danube in between — our dozen-day tour explores the very heart of Europe. From the music of Strauss to the dynasty of the Habsburgs and the idealism of the Velvet Revolution, these remarkable cities have sparked the dangers, hopes, and beauty of Europe — yesterday and today. Join us for the Best of Berlin, Prague & Vienna in 12 Days!
Dates & Prices
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What's Included
You'll get at least 23 group sightseeing events — at no extra cost!
Here's what you'll see and do on our 2024 Berlin, Prague & Vienna tour:
- Historic Berlin walking tour
- East Berlin walking tour
- National Memorial to the Berlin Wall
- Berlin's Kreuzberg neighborhood
- Berlin cultural Q&A
- Dresden walking tour
- Frauenkirche (when available)
- Nelahozeves Castle
- Terezín Memorial
- Historic Prague walking tour
- Czech beer tasting
- Prague Castle
- St. Vitus Cathedral
- St. George's Basilica (when available)
- Jewish Museum in Prague pass
- Český Krumlov Castle and Baroque Theater
- Melk Abbey
- Danube River cruise
- Historic Vienna walking tour
- Belvedere Palace
- Habsburg Vienna walking tour
- Vienna Opera House (when available)
- Hofburg Imperial Apartments
Plus you'll get all this, too.
- A small, friendly group of 24–28 people — half the size of most tour groups
- Full-time services of a professional Rick Steves guide and local experts who will make the fascinating history, art, and culture of Berlin, Prague, and Vienna come alive for you
- All group transportation from Berlin to Vienna
- 11 nights' accommodations (all but two are three-night stays) in memorable, centrally located hotels
- All breakfasts and 6 other meals
- All tips for guides and driver
- A tour kit including a guidebook (when available) and a moneybelt
- Guaranteed tour price, locked in the moment you make your deposit
- Tour alum discount of $50 for each tour you've taken with us
- Flexibility should you need to transfer or cancel your tour
Fine print: You are responsible for the cost of your drinks and free-time sightseeing. See our Tour Conditions for important details regarding everything listed above.
Group sightseeing events subject to change.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Berlin
We'll have a "Welcome to Berlin" meeting at 5 p.m. at our hotel. On our way to dinner together, we'll get oriented to our neighborhood and marvel at the modernity of 21st-century Berlin.
Light walking: 2–4 miles throughout the day on mostly level terrain. No bus. Sleep in Berlin.
Day 2: Berlin's Historic Heart
We'll begin our day with a walking tour through the historic heart of Berlin. At the Brandenburg Gate, we'll hear how locals felt on the day in 1989 when the Berlin Wall suddenly became irrelevant. We'll continue our walk past thought-provoking memorials tracing this city's most tumultuous century, from World War I to today. After a full day of sightseeing, you'll be set free to take in Berlin's vibrant culinary scene or simply relax at a neighborhood beer garden.
Strenuous walking: 2–8 miles throughout the day with lots of hills, stairs, and uneven terrain. No bus. Sleep in Berlin.
Day 3: Berlin's Wall and Kreuzberg Neighborhood
This morning we'll visit the poignant Berlin Wall Memorial and take a walk along an intact stretch of the original wall preserved to memorialize the victims of the Cold War. Then, we'll journey to Berlin's vibrant, multicultural district of Kreuzberg, traditionally home to many Turkish immigrants, where we'll be introduced to the neighborhood and some tasty Turkish specialties. The rest of the day is free for you to explore more of Berlin's leafy boulevards, grand buildings, and world-class museums.
Strenuous walking: 2–8 miles throughout the day with lots of hills, stairs, and uneven terrain. No bus. Sleep in Berlin.
Day 4: Resurrected Dresden
Today we'll board our bus and head south to delightfully Baroque Dresden. We'll start our visit with a walking tour of the reborn-from-the-ashes city, including the city's greatest symbol of pride: the inspiring Frauenkirche, destroyed during World War II and rebuilt in the 1990s with donations from around the world. From there you'll be free to contemplate the priceless pieces in the Zwinger Museums' Old Masters Gallery, Royal Palace, or Green Vault.
Light walking: 2–4 miles throughout the day on mostly level terrain. Bus: 3 hours. Sleep in Dresden.
Day 5: Terezín and Prague
We'll continue south to the Czech Republic today, stopping in the fortified town of Terezín, which was converted into a concentration camp in 1941. Today it's the Terezín Memorial, and we'll go inside to learn its story. Just down the road, we'll find a completely contrasting experience in Nelahozeves, birthplace of Czech composer Antonín Dvořák, where we'll stop for lunch and a tour of the Renaissance castle perched high above the Vltava River. Later this afternoon we'll arrive at our hotel in Prague's Baroque Old Town. After settling in, we'll take an orientation walk through the Old Town and end our day with dinner together.
Moderate walking: 2–6 miles throughout the day with some hills and stairs. Bus: 5 hours. Sleep in Prague.
Day 6: The People's Prague
We'll enjoy a full morning of sightseeing with our local guide, beginning with a walking tour of the Old Town Square. After learning about the Velvet Revolution — the people's march that toppled the Communist regime in 1989 — our morning will end in the proudly preserved Josefov neighborhood, with its Old Jewish Cemetery and historic synagogues. Is Prague really home to the best beers in Europe? We'll find out by sampling one together at a local brewery. Afterwards, you'll have time to explore more of the Josefov neighborhood (with your Jewish Museum in Prague pass) on your own.
Strenuous walking: 2–8 miles throughout the day with lots of hills, stairs, and uneven terrain. No bus. Sleep in Prague.
Day 7: Royal Prague
This morning we'll hop on a local tram to take us across the Vltava River and up the hill to the most massive castle complex in continental Europe: Prague Castle. We'll tour the impressive St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica (when available), and the Golden Lane. The rest of the day is yours to see more of Prague. Tonight is a great time to catch a classical concert in one of Prague's many venues.
Strenuous walking: 2–8 miles throughout the day with lots of hills, stairs, and uneven terrain. No bus. Sleep in Prague.
Day 8: Delightful Český Krumlov
Today we'll hop on our bus and head for the centuries-old town of Český Krumlov. Our first stop is the castle fortress and one of Europe's best-preserved and still-functioning 18th-century Baroque theaters. Later this afternoon you'll have time to explore this photogenic old town of quaint shops and cobbled lanes — maybe even join your guide and fellow tour members on an afternoon rafting expedition before dinner together.
Moderate walking: 2–6 miles throughout the day with some hills and stairs. Bus: 3 hours. Sleep in Český Krumlov.
Day 9: Melk and Vienna
After an early morning drive to the Danube Valley, we'll tour the artistic treasures and Baroque wonders of Melk Abbey and cruise Austria's prettiest stretch of the Danube: the Wachau Valley. Then we'll set course for the one-time capital of a powerful empire — and our tour's grand finale — Vienna. Tonight, we'll enjoy an orientation walk, then set you free for dinner on your own.
Moderate walking: 2–6 miles throughout the day with some hills and stairs. Boat: 2 hours. Bus: 5 hours. Sleep in Vienna.
Day 10: Habsburg Vienna
This morning we'll stroll through Vienna's most sophisticated sight: the royal Hofburg Imperial Apartments. Afterwards, we'll explore more of opulent Habsburg Vienna on a walking tour through town. Your afternoon is free to explore a world-class museum or two, or to slow down and enjoy sipping a coffee in the city where Europe's café scene was born.
Strenuous walking: 2–8 miles throughout the day with lots of hills, stairs, and uneven terrain. No bus. Sleep in Vienna.
Day 11: Historic Vienna
This morning we'll make our way to Vienna's dazzling Opera House (when available) before continuing by tram to the elegant Belvedere Palace for a tour, including a roomful of Gustav Klimt's wildly gilded — he called them "erotic" — paintings. (Ponder The Kiss and decide for yourself.) The rest of your day is free to explore more of Vienna's highlights and maybe stop to savor every chocoholic's dream: Viennese Sacher torte. Tonight we'll meet for our last dinner together at a traditional Viennese restaurant, where we'll share travel memories and toast new friends. Prost!
Moderate walking: 2–6 miles throughout the day with some hills and stairs. No bus. Sleep in Vienna.
Day 12: Tour Over After Breakfast
Breakfast is provided, but there are no group activities today. It's a breeze to reach Vienna's airport by train, bus, or taxi. You'll have easy connections to home, back to Prague, or on to Budapest and other points in Europe. Auf Wiedersehen!
Itinerary specifics subject to change.
Physical Demands
Our tours are physically active! It's an essential part of the Rick Steves tour experience. On our Best of Berlin, Prague & Vienna in 12 Days tour — among other things — you'll need to happily…
- Carry/roll your luggage over uneven pavement (possibly several blocks) and up stairways to reach your hotel, then up several flights of stairs to reach your room.
- Be on your feet, walking and standing, for up to three hours, indoors and outdoors, in all weather conditions.
- Sleep with street noise and no (or weak) air conditioning.
- After orientation and transportation lessons, be able to navigate towns and cities on your own.
Reviews
Mary
Tour: 06/09/24
Overall rating:
Three scheduled days each in the major cities was useful to explore these Central European gems. Tour guide Ben was very knowledgeable about history, culture, current life etc. Local guides Matt, Barbara, Gerhart were excellent. Tour of Terazin was an historic "must-see". Enjoyed the nontraditional European insights and food by the Turkish-ancestry guide in Berlin. Overall the tour gave us knowledge about Central Europe history and current life. Enjoyed the opportunity to use public trans
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Entering the Baroque Theatre at the castle in Cezky Krumlov - magical"
Jeanette
Tour: 06/09/24
Overall rating:
This was our 4th Rick Steves tour and every one of them has been fantastic. We chose this one because we had never been to central Europe and because it didn't have a lot of time on the bus. We had no idea that it would be so informative and such a pleasant trip.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Berlin Wall and Terezin. I didn't know about Terezin. I did know something about the wall and divided Germany, but not as much as I should have. I am still thinking of the parallels between the Berlin wall and the wall along the US/Mexico border. I was also impressed with the food. Being vegetarian, I was afraid wouldn[t find much to eat."
Alice
Tour: 06/09/24
Overall rating:
This central European tour surpassed my expectations. I wasn't expecting to be overwhelmed by the history, horrors, and opulence of this part of the world. Although I'm sure I will forget many details of the tour, I won't forget how it broadened my understanding of the complex histories of the people of these countries. It was also a lot of fun with a great group of people.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My most impactful moments were the "dead zone" in Berlin, the showers in Terezin concentration camp, and the Jewish cemetery in Prague. Favorite is not a word I can use for those images."
Vickie
Tour: 06/09/24
Overall rating:
Our tour guide Ben was remarkably. Inclusive , knowledgeable and very professional.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The theatre at cesky Krumlov "
Kyle
Tour: 06/09/24
Overall rating:
A wonderful, thought-provoking tour through several unique and cities. We saw some of the best and the worst of human history from the last century. While I missed spending more time outside of major cities, this trip checked off a lot of must-see destinations for understanding European and modern history. The combination of many guided museum tours, not much time on the bus, and the tone of the group made the tour feel more hurried and tiring than others, but I would recommend it to others.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Matt, our local tour guide in Berlin was the best local tour guide I think I've encountered on any of the tours I've been on. Highly engaging and entertaining even while grappling with the very difficult topic of WWII and Cold War era Berlin. I want to also say that the Baroque theater in Český Krumlov was an unexpected delight and that the content covered by the Third Man Museum in Vienna was excellent."
George
Tour: 06/09/24
Overall rating:
Guides were excellent, hotels were conveniently located to areas we explored, and the group was exceptional. The main guide, Ben, was great.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Visiting the baroque theater in Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic; visit to the concentration camp in Tirezin; Austrian coffee shops and restaurants. "
Patsy
Tour: 06/09/24
Overall rating:
We had a congenial group of people with a knowledgeable guide and some interesting destinations. All in all in it was a really good trip. This was my first "city" tour and while I enjoyed all the destinations, I personally needed a little more away from the big city time.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"I have two. Matt, our guide in Berlin, made the city and the history come alive for me. I was not really expecting to enjoy Berlin as much as I did and it is thanks to him. The beauty and uniqueness of Prague did not disappoint!"
Elizabeth
Tour: 06/09/24
Overall rating:
Expectations exceeded
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Organisation & time management perfect "
Randall
Tour: 06/09/24
Overall rating:
Very positive experience. Guides top-notch, especially Ben, our Berlin guide, our Prague guide, and Gerhard in Vienna
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Visiting Cesky Krumlov"
Roger
Tour: 06/09/24
Overall rating:
Very personable guides eager to share their knowledge and very personable companion travelers continues to be a successful formula to insure a memorable tour experience.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Having Gerhard give us a personal tour of his very own "Third Man Museum" in Vienna. Ausgezeichnet! "
Joe
Tour: 05/19/24
Overall rating:
A wonderful tour with good people. Lots of great places to visit and sights to see.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Lots of Wow moments. Prague. Seeing the baroque theatre in Cesky Krumlov."
Mark
Tour: 05/19/24
Overall rating:
wonderful group, we all got along; terrific guides, a "good" tired from a lot of walking! Venerable old cities with a lot of history to enrich the experience.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"hard to pick one - ok, the Vienna Opera House"
Rebecca
Tour: 05/19/24
Overall rating:
We had a wonderful tour with a diverse group of fellow travelers. There was living history, intriguing stories, beautiful art, gorgeous scenery plus lots of laughs
Favorite "WOW" moment
"I think coming face to face with a part of Europe that has been so affected by war, politics and cultural change was my “wow” moment."
Philip
Tour: 05/19/24
Overall rating:
This was my first Rick Steves' tour and it exceeded my expectations. Our guide, Anna, could not have been nicer, more informed, or more organized. Everything on the tour went smoothly. The local guides were all well-informed and helpful. I liked the balance between the structures tour and free time. The hotels were nice enough with delicious and extensive breakfast. The tour members were all friendly and kind. All in all, it couldn't have gone better.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Learning about Austria being declared a victim of Nazi Germany and thus not being required to restitute victims of the Holocaust was truly shocking."
Leslie
Tour: 05/19/24
Overall rating:
Tour was everything I expected from a Rick Steves tour. Hotels were in good locations, safe and clean. Tour guide, Anna, and local guides were outstanding. Itinerary gave ample free time to explore or rest. Days were clearly planned and well communicated.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Delighted by Chesky Krumlov"
Steve
Tour: 05/19/24
Overall rating:
Really enjoyed the history information regarding these cities.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"A better understanding of “the rock and the hard place” people were caught between in regards to communism or Hitler."
Shane
Tour: 05/12/24
Overall rating:
The guide was excellent. She was very knowledgeable and warm. She anticipated problems well in advance and was ready with a variety of solutions and alternatives. Always upbeat and cheerful. Would tour with her again in a heartbeat. Can't say enough about her very professional abilities and approach to guiding this tour.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Boat cruise-no walking."
John
Tour: 05/12/24
Overall rating:
A great mix of tour time and free time.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Jazz performance in Prague."
Marcy
Tour: 05/12/24
Overall rating:
This was our first group tour, and we are thrilled with how it went! The tour was well organized and reasonably priced. Our overall tour guide, Jana, was outstanding. Her insight and personal experiences growing up in the Czech Republic, as well as stories of her parents and grandparents, added so much. Plus she is fun. Each of the local tour guides introduced us to very significant history of these amazing cities. The bus rides were comfortable and entertaining. We can recommend this tour.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There were many light moments, beer garden, wine garden, shared meals, cool baroque theatre, and incredible points of interest. Each of the guides, also, wanted us to deeply understand and feel/ experience the history of the cities, including some very horrific and troubling history. They did not gloss over anything, and they emphasized that history can repeat itself and one must always be aware. "
David
Tour: 05/12/24
Overall rating:
The local guides in Berlin, Dresden, Prague, Cesky Krumlov and Vienna were fantastic, and our tour leader, Jana, is a delightful human being — always cheerful and helpful. The tour introduces you to neighborhood hotels and restaurants you wouldn’t otherwise know about, while also providing plenty of free time for exploring. And as good as the tour was, maybe the best part was meeting and getting to know the interesting and fun fellow tour members.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Charles Bridge in Prague at night; rafting the Vltava River in Cesky Krumlov, guided by Garo, our expert oarsman; and our cruise on the Danube."
Michalle
Tour: 05/12/24
Overall rating:
This was our 7th Rick Steves' Tour and it did not disappoint! Our guide was superb, hotels comfortable, and adequate free time.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Berlin wall and its associated history."
Barry
Tour: 05/12/24
Overall rating:
This was number seven, and it was as good as the previous six. Good ratio of guided events and free time. Great guide.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Berlin wall and its history."
Richard
Tour: 05/12/24
Overall rating:
Wonderful in every way.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Very first day in Berlin."
Sherry
Tour: 05/12/24
Overall rating:
Excellent. The right amount of guided, and free time. The guide was excellent.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Two: The Berlin museum about life in the GDR, and the beautiful Czech countryside"
Jon
Tour: 05/12/24
Overall rating:
Christine
Tour: 05/12/24
Overall rating:
Extremely well organized with knowledgeable guides. Jana surprised us almost daily with little treats from places we visited. Local guides were also knowledgeable and entertaining.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Too many spectacular views to just pick one."
Gene
Tour: 05/12/24
Overall rating:
I enjoyed the tour. We visited many interesting sites and the group I was with was very positive and fun to be with.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Visiting the concentration camp at Terizini. It was an eye opening experience to personally observe the conditions under which the Jewish population had to endure."
Joe
Tour: 05/12/24
Overall rating:
Randy
Tour: 05/05/24
Overall rating:
Clair was an outstanding guide and really made this tripe special. She was on time and made sure that our group was on time for everything. She constantly had special treats for us which was always unexpected. She knew so much about the places we were going that it made going there that much more enjoyable.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"For me the wow moment was walking into the small little church were the two paratroopers setup a field Hospitol to take care of both US and German soldiers wounded on the D Day beach just outside their door. The story told by the guide and the auther of the book that he signed and gave us a copy of was amazing and I listened to every word he said, and stared at the blood stained booths were the soldiers that that had bleed so heavily that there blood soaked so deeply it was permenante. "
Victoria
Tour: 05/05/24
Overall rating:
Jana was a wonderful guide. Her sense of humor, patience and kindness were evident throughout the entire trip. I loved it when she and the local guides shared their experiences with living behind the Iron Curtain and how life has evolved in both Berlin and the Czech Republic.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Our favorite wow moment was the first night in Prague. We had an outstanding meal which is normally served at Czech weddings. Just delicious. What made it even more special was when Jana took us to the Charles Bridge so we could see the castle at night, all lit up. It was just magical. "
Janet
Tour: 05/05/24
Overall rating:
Great tour guide and local guides, interesting itinerary, good hotels, very good meals, nice group of people.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"During my free time I visited the Neue Nationalgalerie in Berlin. I've been interested in Egyptology since I was quite young, and was excited to see the bust of Nefertiti. It's stunning, and so much more vibrant than any photos I've seen. I was absolutely mesmerized by her and thrilled to see her in person. This kind of emotional reaction is why we appreciate great art. Having such opportunities is why I travel."
Mark
Tour: 05/05/24
Overall rating:
Everything went very well starting with our guide, Jana, who was knowledgeable, ultra orgainized and tuned into our every need.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Really wasn't one, there were many"
Katherine
Tour: 05/05/24
Overall rating:
Jana our guide was at the top of my list for overall experience
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Cruise on the Danube "
Patricia
Tour: 05/05/24
Overall rating:
A great tour - well organized and managed. Our tour guide was always available and offered appreciated recommendations and insights.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My husband, Peter, really enjoyed visiting Cesky Krumlov. i thoroughly enjoyed revisiting Prague and going to a jazz club."
Dianne
Tour: 05/05/24
Overall rating:
Mary Anne
Tour: 05/05/24
Overall rating:
Wonderful tour with great guides and good balance of planned activities and free time.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Riding the public transportation so easily!"
Yujing
Tour: 05/05/24
Overall rating:
The tour exceeded my expectations, and it was educational, inspiring and touching. Our lead guide, Jana did an outstanding job. She’s warm, thoughtful and genuinely care about the people. She went above and beyond to help us and make us feel comfortable. Her knowledge around the EU countries are broad and insightful. I’d recommend anyone to join the tour.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There were so many wow moments. Everyday was a wow. Visiting Cesky Krumlov and cruising on Danube were relaxing. Third man museum was also a highlight. "
Nancy
Tour: 05/05/24
Overall rating:
Great guide, well organized, kept to schedule.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The beautiful neighborhood the stay in Berlin provided. So many multinational families living in harmony. Second to that was the main piazza of Prague. And third to that was the town of cesky Krumlov, but that might really be the top wow moment. "
Ed
Tour: 05/05/24
Overall rating:
It was my second Rick Steves tour and I’m more convinced that you have this process figured out. An elite tour guide with great local folks educate us. And the fact that we are given time to explore on our own heightens the experience.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The city of Prague was the “hook” our trip. Our expectations were high and the experience exceeded them. We are already exploring ways to return."
Ruth
Tour: 10/01/23
Overall rating:
The tour was delightful. We experienced thought-provoking moments (Terezin and East Berlin), special events ( a jazz club), and the pleasure of our thoughtful and knowledgeable guide (Jana).
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Although they were not joyful moments, I found the exposure to parts of East Berlin, Dresden, Terezin and Prague to be extraordinarily moving. And well worth learning more about. The Third Man museum was an amazing collection of information I would not have encountered elsewhere. "
Nancy
Tour: 10/01/23
Overall rating:
(Nancy and Tom) We really enjoyed this tour. Our guide, Jana Kratka, was personable, knowledgeable, and very capable of managing all the details. It was interesting to hear her personal stories about Prague, and we enjoyed the treats she gave us along the way. The local guides were informative and provided insights into tragic historical events. The hotels were comfortable and in great locations. Our meals (esp. the Turkish restaurant in Berlin and the beer tasting in Prague) were special.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Prague at night! Cesky Krumlov and its Baroque Theatre, one of only two such theatres preserved in their original working condition, and seeing how set changes and sound effects were made. The section of the Third Man Museum displaying documents, diaries and videos explaining the traumatic events in Vienna including the expulsion of Jews and Kindertransport. Overall, a good balance between visiting beautiful places, experiencing fascinating culture, and learning about sobering historical events."
Todd
Tour: 10/01/23
Overall rating:
Information, logistics, locations, sites met and exceeded our expectations.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Historical context of all locations provided by tour guide Jana and local guides."
James
Tour: 10/01/23
Overall rating:
Wonderful guides, so much valuable information, great cities.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Seeing the renovation of Dresden. Incredible history"
Kristie
Tour: 10/01/23
Overall rating:
This tour, our 5th with Rick Steves', had a good balance of group activities and free time. It was very educational and our group leader, Jana, was terrific. There were a couple of planned activities that did not work out but she came up with alternatives to fill in the gaps. The hotels were clean, nice, and in great locations for exploring.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My "wow" moment was in Berlin at Checkpoint Charlie then at the Berlin Wall Memorial as the local guide shared tales of everyday life in East Berlin, escape attempts, people on the wall of remembrance, etc. My dad was a military policeman at Checkpoint Charlie in the mid 1960s so seeing/hearing about those people/events was the primary reason for this trip. It was eye opening and I am glad I could come back home to share it with my dad."
Kevin
Tour: 10/01/23
Overall rating:
The tour was well-organized, with a good balance of group activities and time for personal pursuits. Jana did an exceptional job of leading the group! Her dedication, informative approach, and flexibility made for a memorable experience.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Topography of Terror Museum in Berlin; it answered my questions about how Nazism arose and was accepted (and willingly followed) by the majority of the German population. It's a lesson in the dangers posed by populist leaders who offer simple answers to complex questions, and appeal to humanity's worst instincts, while demanding obedience to the detriment of democratic norms and values. "
Susan
Tour: 10/01/23
Overall rating:
Visited three great cities in Central Europe, along with some amazing places in between. Lots of beautiful scenery, architecture, and delicious food, shared with a great group of travelers and a charming guide, Janna.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The amazing Baroque theatre at Chesky Krumlov was like walking into a dream! So beautiful and just astounding that it has survived!"
Herbert
Tour: 10/01/23
Overall rating:
well organized, great city guides, just the right amount of “on you own time”.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"East Berlin history and the Third Man Museum in Vienna"
Christine
Tour: 09/24/23
Overall rating:
Excellent tour guide (Barbara). Kept us all together and made the tour fun. Excellent local guides. Guides had living experiences of the areas we toured.They provided great insight into how living there really was.Restaurant and Hotel selections were very good.Great group of fellow travelers.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Berlin wall tour. The local guide (Tobi) was raised in East Berlin and reflected on how life was there. Very informative."
James P
Tour: 09/24/23
Overall rating:
It was a good 12 days. We learned a great deal of history and culture and saw some amazing sights. The group was compatible and everyone was pretty relaxed.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Of all things, when we got lost in Vienna, found where the U-bahn was supposed to be, but it was a construction site. I stopped a random well-dressed man and asked him if there was another way to the U-Bahn, and he said of course, cross the street and open the door and take the escalator. No sign for U-Bahn. We went down and found a huge supermarket where we finally found some Ricola miniatures to take home. Had to ask again for the U-Bahn. We were forced to get help from a local. It worked."
Barbara J.
Tour: 09/24/23
Overall rating:
Overall, the journey was enlightening and sobering especially in Germany. The history of the holocaust and the aftermath of Soviet rule truly sobering.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"I loved the Belvedere Art Museum in Vienna. Our docent was especially knowledgeable and engaging."
Ed
Tour: 09/17/23
Overall rating:
I had an amazing time in Europe, our tour guide Jhana did a wonderful job, made things very personal and had a great attitude for our group. Great idea taking everyone out on the public transportation in Berlin to educate us.And enjoyed her personal side of their freedom in Prague,
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Don't now if I had a wow moment as I enjoyed everything, lunch at the castle, boat trip on the Danube,and the Third Man museum was very memorable"
Marianne
Tour: 09/17/23
Overall rating:
Great, well-balanced tour. Lots of fun
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The boat trip down the Danube. And Cesky Krumlov. And the Prague Castle (esp at night)"
Cynthia
Tour: 09/17/23
Overall rating:
The tour was well planned and very informative. Our main guide, Jana Hronkova, was wonderful!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Prague Castle and lights at night, the Vienna Opera House, and many of the cathedrals."
Cynthia
Tour: 09/17/23
Overall rating:
The tour activities were well-rounded, informative, and executed as smoothly as possible considering the size of these cities and their transportation systems.Our outstanding tour guide, Jana, and the local guides included befitting history and stories to humanize large sights and small. Almost magically, many sights not listed in the itinerary I sought to see during free-time were covered on the tour. Special touches such as music/oratories and local foods/beverages on the bus were so pleasing.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Favorite somber 'wows': Berlin Wall Memorial and Terezin former concentration camp. Favorite cultural/natural "wows": The Czech Republic in general. Prague history and art, and the lovely, natural Cesky Krumlov."
Susan
Tour: 09/10/23
Overall rating:
Rena
Tour: 09/10/23
Overall rating:
Our tour was well planned and well led by Thomas, our tour director. A thoroughly enjoyable time together! We especially appreciated the overall tour design of dividing most days into a morning devoted to an in-depth guided tour led by a very knowledgeable local guide and an afternoon and evening left free for personal exploration. The group dinners were also pleasant experiences, hosted in wonderful restaurants favored by the locals. Our Rick Steves' Tour delivered a fabulous experience!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"We would have to list two "wow" moments, one on each end of the spectrum. On the relaxing end, our cruise on the Danube provided a relaxing afternoon to enjoy the beauty along the river. On the serious end, our guided tour of Terezin, the Nazi transfer camp where thousands of Jews were abused and murdered, was a sobering reminder of the evil done by the Nazi regime. Both "wow" moments were appreciated--and needed."
Sarah
Tour: 09/10/23
Overall rating:
We had a fabulous time on our first Rick Steve tour. Fun and interesting group of fellow travelers and our tour guide was amazing. Learned a great deal of history from our local tour guides in the cities we visited. We will definitely take another tour next year.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Several WOW moments but I think seeing remnants of the Berlin Wall for the first time and the emotions it raised was powerful."
Linda
Tour: 09/10/23
Overall rating:
Our tour guide, Thomas, was perfect for this trip. He is thoughtful, kind, knowledgable and despite some serious content, comes across as a cheerful person.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"I would not describe many of the experiences on this tour as "wow" moments due to the somber and serious history and past events involved. There were, however, many meaningful events. I can say that this trip provided information and left impressions that I will ponder for a long time. It was a very thought-provoking experience for me."
Terri Pauline
Tour: 09/10/23
Overall rating:
This was a terrific tour. Our guide Thomas was fantastic! The local guides were great as they educated us about the history of Berlin & Terezin. Dresden was a surprise having expected a 'big city' & instead discovering a lovely & quaint old town core. Cesky Krumlov was adorable, Vienna was lovely, & Prague was awesome!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"While Cesky Krumlov was adorable & delightful to explore, I fell in love with Prague instantly. Prague has incredible buildings, history, food, drinks, bridges, corners to peak around &narrow streets to explore. It is very exciting while still maintaining a small town charm."
Gary
Tour: 09/10/23
Overall rating:
This tour was outstanding. It all begins with a tour leader that keeps it light, informative, and heards his sheep to keep the tour on time and moving. Thomas was an outstanding leader and kept us informed and entertained the whole trip. From historic Berlin, to the breath taking Prague, and romantic Vienna, it had it all. It was great hearing Thomas's view growing up in Berlin during the communist times. Every stop on this tour was a hit and our tour group turned into one big group of friends.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Finally getting to visit Cesky Krumlov. Ever since seeing this little village on the Rick Steves episodes over ten years ago I have always wanted to visit. It did not disappoint. "
Stephanie
Tour: 09/10/23
Overall rating:
Everything on the trip went extremely well. The guides, places we visited and the people on the tour were fabulous
Favorite "WOW" moment
"the square and clock in Prague"
Amanda
Tour: 09/10/23
Overall rating:
This is my 3rd Rick Steves tour. It was excellent. Thomas was an outstanding tour director.
Judy
Tour: 09/03/23
Overall rating:
Jana was a wonderful tour leader. She had fun stories and activities. The people we met were all friendly, enthusiastic, and very knowledgeable--I can't recall a single "dumb" question from any of them. We chose this tour because of the locations--places we were never able to visit when we lived in Germany in the 1980s. The history was amazing and we loved every minute.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"We really enjoyed Berlin the best. The history was fascinating and it was so interesting to see how the E area had changed from what it had been under the Soviets. Matte the local tour guide was excellent--very knowledgeable and able to impart a sense of life under Soviet rule. "
Bonnie
Tour: 09/03/23
Overall rating:
Overall the tour was excellent. We were happy with the choice of cities, the pacing, the tour guides and the sites we visited.We enjoyed the history of Central Europe and felt the tour offered a good education. We walked about 6.5 miles a day.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My favorite moment was the tour of the State Jewish Museum in Prague looking at the exceptional artwork from the children of Terezin. It took my breath away. My husband was wowed by the performance at the Reduta Jazz club. Both entertaining and surprising to see a singer from Czech Republic performing songs by Frank Sinatra!"
Mary Lou
Tour: 09/03/23
Overall rating:
As always my fellow tour members were cooperative, engaging, and collegial. Jana led us all on our journey graciously, sharing her personal family stories.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My wow was the Third Man Museum. I had never heard of the movie until a friend of mine shared his experience on his Berlin RS tour. Prompting me to watch the movie. Profound. "
Richard
Tour: 09/03/23
Overall rating:
Well informed. Tour guide was terrific; knowledgeable, solicitous, invested in our experience!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"off-tour moment in Dresden when local cellist played ‘Claire de Lune’ on a cobblestone walkway from the opera house. "
Stephanie
Tour: 09/03/23
Overall rating:
Excellent trip guide, mostly good local guides, too much mass transit used, inadequate single supplement hotel accommodations
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Loved Dresden and Prague"
Lonney
Tour: 08/20/23
Overall rating:
The tour experience for me was generally very good. I think I was one of the oldest if not the oldest member on the tour. The walking parts of the tour were at times tiring but manageable. My biggest problem was the amount of time spent standing at each site without opportunities to sit and rest briefly. The tour itself and the knowledge of all the guides was incredible. Unfortunately my life partner became ill with Covid in Prague and we had to leave the tour. Very stressful getting home.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Since the hotel in Berlin in which the tour group stayed was relatively close to the TV Tower, my life partner and I walked to it and went to the viewing area at the top. What an amazing view. We could see most of the places we would see close up later on the tour. I would add the small city of Dresden had a lot of beautiful architecture and great food but also on the other side of the river near our hotel was beautiful tree lined streets. We sat and ate ice cream. A place I could live in."
Karen
Tour: 08/20/23
Overall rating:
As usual your tour accommodations and tour guides were outstanding.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Our wow moment was cruising on the Danube River viewing all the beautiful landscape and Castles. "
Jane
Tour: 08/20/23
Overall rating:
We had a good tour group with Jana as our excellent guide, assisted by apprentice guide, Barbara. We learned a lot of history and its impact on our present-day world, we enjoyed some excellent food, and made some new friends. Unfortunately COVID struck and we lost about half our group over several days. For those of us who survived, it was a good experience.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Our group meal in Prague at Mincovna was outstanding, followed closely by our group meal in Berlin at the Turkish restaurant Hasir. The Prague Castle and Cesky Krumlov were also wonderful."
Nancy
Tour: 08/20/23
Overall rating:
This tour was so much more than I expected. My background knowledge of Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic was somewhat limited so I "ate up" every bit of information we learned from our main tour guides and the city guides and came back with new understandings of how - in particular - propaganda played in the history of those areas as well as how it continues to be used today - even here in the USA.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Better knowledge of circumstances in these areas which lead up to WWII, what happened during the war (to an extent) and what happened afterwards as well. I was a history major and love this learning opportunity from guides who could share first-hand or second-generation family experiences. And - I have another degree in Art so could appreciate that perspective as well! "
Gregory
Tour: 06/11/23
Overall rating:
Excellent overview of impact of lst 30 years on those parts of Europe impacted by Nazi and Communist control
Favorite "WOW" moment
" those group activates that allowed group to share in local activities such as rafting, beer fest and portions of guided tours "
Katy
Tour: 06/04/23
Overall rating:
I was very pleased with this tour with my only reservation being the fairly large group of 25. It was my first Rick Steve’s tour and previous tours with other companies have been much smaller groups. That said, our leader managed the group beautifully and I found the other participants to be lovely people. I have some hearing problems and the combination of the headsets, noisy backgrounds and accents of some local guides made it hard for me to understand all of the information.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There were many but I would pick seeing the plaque in Prague about the Velvet Revolution. The personal stories of both our lead guide and the local guide really brought home what it was like under Communism and how lucky we Americans are to live under Democracy, even though our system is far from perfect. "
Sharon
Tour: 06/04/23
Overall rating:
The tour was far beyond our expectations. Our tour guide, Jana, was spectacular, as were many of the local guides -- Sarka, Heidi, Gerhard. We have recommended the tour to everyone we have encountered and spoken about our vacation, since we returned -- including someone from Germany!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There are two "wow" moments. First, when we got to the site of the Berlin Wall and Heidi showed us pictures of those who escaped, and shared their stories (and her mother's story of escaping). Being in the presence of that oppressiveness was moving. Second, in Prague at the memorial to the student uprising -- when Jana and Sarka sang a song about the Velvet Revolution, and described so movingly how it unfolded. It was also incredibly moving."
Debby
Tour: 06/04/23
Overall rating:
Extraordinary trip-- superb guides; beautiful places; interesting and lovely tourmates
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Truly hard to identify just one-- perhaps the day in Prague, when Jana and Sarka laid a flower on the plaque honoring students of the Velvet Revolution"
Jeff
Tour: 06/04/23
Overall rating:
We had a fabulous tour experience. The itinerary was well planned, with small town visits alternating with big city experiences. The high quality of the overall guides and the local guides are a real strength of the Rick Steves tours. I liked the mix of group activities and free time to explore what interested my husband and me.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"This was an optional activity, but attending the opera in Vienna was a wow moment! "
Colleen
Tour: 06/04/23
Overall rating:
The tour was well organized with great guides, comfortable hotels, and a friendly tour group that was interested in seeing everything. I appreciated having a mix of activities as well as time to do your own exploring in the afternoon and evenings. My only complaint was that some of the guides walked too fast, and I couldn't admire the sites along the way because I was running to keep up. Also, if the guide is going to make a long speech, it would be nice to do that in a spot with benches!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Being in the historic Old Town of Prague was my favorite. While there, my husband and I used our free evening to hear Dvorak's New World Symphony in the beautiful Smetana Hall played by the Prague Symphony Orchestra. That was fantastic -- a Czech composer's music performed in a Czech Art Nouveau venue. "
James
Tour: 06/04/23
Overall rating:
Overall the tour was great. The hotels were very good and Jana and the local guides were all excellent.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The baroque theater in Cesky Krumlov and the river cruise on the Danube of the Wachau Valley were both amazing."
Paul
Tour: 06/04/23
Overall rating:
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Downtown Dresden"
Olga
Tour: 06/04/23
Overall rating:
We enjoyed all of it: the places visited, the guide and fellow travelers.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Astronomical Clock in Prague. As someone posted on Youtube, 21 sec of awesome. It was so much fun watching the apostles appear in the windows, and to think it has been working since 1410."
Richard
Tour: 06/04/23
Overall rating:
Overall it was great fun. Most of the guides and hotels were good with a couple of exceptions.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Sitting in the Royal Box at the Vienna Opera House"
Mary
Tour: 05/21/23
Overall rating:
This trip exceeded my expectations. We chose the tour based on the itinerary, but the selected hotels, arranged meals and varied guides really enhanced our cultural experience. Our main guide, Anna, was simply a delight everyday, and perhaps we were just lucky to end up with a quirky, interesting and kind group of fellow travelers.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"I have to choose a "moment" at Prague Castle which lasted for hours, where I was overwhelmed by St Vitus cathedral, the Old Royal Palace jousting room with horse-accessible stairs, vistas of the city in all directions, and the bustling castle district with hidden byways full of history. Our guide Sarka was the best!"
Charmaine
Tour: 05/21/23
Overall rating:
Beautiful cities, great group, good food, and fun times learning about historically significant landmarks.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Our orientation walk when we arrived in Vienna. I had dreamed of going there for years and it did not disappoint."
Trudith
Tour: 05/21/23
Overall rating:
Anna was a wonderful guide, caring, kind, considerate and very knowledgeable. Tobi, Sharka, and Gerhardt were very entertaining as well as informative. Anna along with Tobi provided excellent information on growing up behind the iron curtain. I liked the the three night stays with three interesting stops along the way.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Cesky Krumlov, cruise on the Danube and Prague with its beautiful squares and lighted towers. "
Juli
Tour: 05/21/23
Overall rating:
Overall the tour was run very well. Compared to my other Rick Steve's tour, this one was slightly less satisfying.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Dresden was the city that surprised me. Seeing the preserved buildings was the "wow" for me on this tour."
Neil
Tour: 05/21/23
Overall rating:
H
Tour: 05/21/23
Overall rating:
It was much more pleasant experience because hotels were much better than my last trip from 2018 "Heart of Belgium & Holland".
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There wasn't one "wow" moment but lots of great moments. "
Dalas
Tour: 05/14/23
Overall rating:
Walking and lots of it but we knew that going in.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"All of Vienna"
Lindsey
Tour: 05/14/23
Overall rating:
Overall, I had a great time on our tour. The guides were knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly, and the pacing of tour activities was good. The hotels were all in safe, accessible locations, close to public transportation so we could get around on our own. We had a good balance of tour time and free time. Our tour was extremely well organized and professionally run. There were a couple hiccups due to weather and unforeseeable events, but Jana handled them well and adjusted quickly.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"As a specific "wow", St. Vitus Cathedral was the most impressive piece of architecture I've ever seen. It really is a marvel to behold in person. As a general "wow", I was amazed at the amount of things we were able to stuff into our tour. I don't feel like I missed out on anything. "
Emily
Tour: 05/14/23
Overall rating:
As has been typical of all our Rick Steves' experiences, the guides were special- knowledgeable, helpful, patient, resourceful and creative. The tour was well organized and the recommendations for "extracurricular" were very good.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My "wow" moment is actually several piled-on top of each other. Experiencing the many layers of Berlin was eye-opening, to say the least. To know that Berlin had been divided is one thing, but to connect the dots and understand the horrors of the Hitler era (beginning in 1933), WWII then the Cold War suppression and hardship is mind-blowing. That the people of Berlin could rebound so completely from those 50-plus years is astounding. Today, Berlin is alive and bubbling with joy and excitement."
Brian
Tour: 05/14/23
Overall rating:
Well planned tour. Excellent introduction to Berlin, Prague and Vienna. Our guide Jana and her assistant Levente were outstanding.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The history, museums and the feel of the cities of Berlin , Prague and Vienna were all Wow moments."
Maurice
Tour: 05/14/23
Overall rating:
All the little extras , the knowledge of yours guides
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Thicket for an evening Jazz in Prague Surprise "
Stephen
Tour: 05/14/23
Overall rating:
This was our first group tour and it was wonderful. Every part of the experience was memorable and well managed. We made new friends and we will plan to take additional Rick Steves tours in the future.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The camaraderie that developed so very rapidly was "WOW"."
Elizabeth
Tour: 05/14/23
Overall rating:
Welcoming tour guides, superb accommodations, great balance between tour time and free time.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Jan Hus monument in Prague. I was good to hear the good news about christians fighting for what was right, and not always what was wrong with the faith."
Lisa
Tour: 05/07/23
Overall rating:
This was our first Rick Steves tour and we couldn't be happier. The trip was well planned and our tour guides were outstanding in the time and attention they gave us.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Prague in general was our favorite city- from the Charles Bridge to the Jewish cemetary. It was so moving."
James
Tour: 05/07/23
Overall rating:
Loved the trip, guides, and even out group.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Learning from people who had experienced it about life under Soviet control and the experience of the transition."
John
Tour: 05/07/23
Overall rating:
Such a nice variety of cities and countries jamb packed into 12 days. Awesome guides with great patience and cheerful attitudes who spontaneously added unplanned experiences to our tour.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Cesky Krumlov and the baroque theatre...so interesting to see how they did set changes and make sounds...an early "Foley Sound System" ...also loved the quaint fortress city and the prospect of rafting around it although the weather didn't permit. Another "wow" was the Ishtar Exhibit at the Pergamon Museum in Berlin. Felt so fortunate to see it especially since it will soon close for a 10 year renovation!"
James
Tour: 05/07/23
Overall rating:
(James & Michael) - The tour was as active as described and we liked that fast pace. Guide Thomas Kreiseler and assistant Anna provided fantastic leadership for the organized activities and consultation for our free time. The different viewpoints provided by our guide and by the local guides about life during the communist era were informative. Enough free time was available to visit the art museums not covered by the tour.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Our "wow" tour moment was the Danube cruise through the beautiful Wachau Valley and our non-tour "wow" moment was the roomful of Breugel the Elder paintings at the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna. "
Mark S
Tour: 05/07/23
Overall rating:
This tour is a great exposure to the history of the area from the time of the renaissance to current time. The trip encompasses the many interesting historical sites. There is ample free time for exploring specific sights that interest the individual tour members.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The ease of using European public transportation to explore the major cities."
Emilie
Tour: 05/07/23
Overall rating:
I learned many new facts about Eastern Europe and I loved having my previously held convictions changed! Guides were superb, fellow travelers friendly, and the itinerary was very well thought-out and executed. Hotels were excellent. Wonderful trip.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Seeing the Infant of Prague statue in St. Mary Victorious church in Prague. It was a huge icon in my childhood."
Leon
Tour: 05/07/23
Overall rating:
Thomas, our guide was fantastic. He was very knowledgeable about the areas we were traveling through. Guides in the various cities knew a lot about the history of Berlin, Dresden, Prague and Vienna. Informed us about things we would definitely no learned on our own.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"I don’t know that there was one thing that I could say was a wow moment "
When To Go & Weather
Any time between May and September is a good time to visit Berlin, Prague, and Vienna. However, the months of May, June, and September are best for combining the convenience of peak season with generally good weather and lighter crowds.
Germany / Berlin
Czech Republic / Prague
Austria / Vienna
Hotels & Flights
Tour Hotels
In case you wish to book pre- or post-tour hotel accommodations, the contact information for the tour's first and last hotels is included in your tour confirmation email as well as the Itinerary section of your tour account. One month prior to the tour departure, you'll find the directions to your first tour hotel and a complete list of hotels where we'll be staying while on tour in the Documents section of your tour account.
Flights
Our tours don't include airfare, so your flight arrangements and transfers are completely up to you.
Most tour members arrange to fly into Berlin (BER) and out of Vienna (VIE) — choose "multicity" on flight-booking websites. Booking round-trip to one city will require a connecting flight, train trip, or additional overnight stay in Europe.
We suggest arriving a day or two before your tour begins to allow ample time to get over jet lag and be well-rested for the first few days of your tour. For more information about transportation options for getting to and from your tour, see your Rick Steves Berlin guidebook.