Best of Berlin, Prague & Vienna in 12 Days Tour

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

Excellent trip guide, mostly good local guides, too much mass transit used, inadequate single supplement hotel accommodations

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Loved Dresden and Prague"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

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. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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!"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

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."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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! "

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

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."

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

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 "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

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. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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! "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Downtown Dresden"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

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"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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. "

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

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."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

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. "

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Walking and lots of it but we knew that going in.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"All of Vienna"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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"."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

All the little extras , the knowledge of yours guides

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Thicket for an evening Jazz in Prague Surprise "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

(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. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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 "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

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."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

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!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I love touring with Rick Steves because you get to know the places you visit. Instead of a generic hotel you stay in the heart of the city and get to know the local area. Our guide was very knowledgeable about the places we went and gave us great insights into the area.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"When we were doing the Berlin Wall walk, I was struck by just how damaging the division of the city was. Even over 30 years later you can still see the scar across the city. The appreciation for that history and the impact it still has is easy to gloss over."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Well organized, extremely knowledgeable guides, exceptional lead guide, good accommodations, nice balance of historical and cultural perspectives….lots of walking.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Prague! Too many “wows” in Prague to call out a specific example. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my first Rick Steves tour - and it was great! I enjoyed our guides so much.R

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I especially enjoyed the river boat ride on the Danube."

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

I like the trip a lot! But, for me… I think I am more interested in the sign seeing, like the scenery, the architecture of the countries! I’m not in to the deep stories of the history and lengthy explanation…. Of the trip! There are much more about Berlin about the Wall! I know it’s a mark of the world history …. But, I certainly feel I’m not coming here just for that! Another thing… there are too much unstructured time to explore the country… Our tour guide Jana was wonderful !

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Amazing architecture building!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Jana Hronkova is a wonderful guide and person. She was a tremendous asset to the tour. She consistently went above and beyond.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Charles Bridge at night. The Berlin Wall museum complex. The plaque in Prague commemorating where the Velvet Revolution physically started. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I had a great time! Jana is a fantastic lead guide along with the local guides. The members of the group are very friendly to each other. The hotels are super. The bus driver Peter is adorable! I just love him and his mushrooms! The trout dinner in that cute restaurant in Cesky Krumlov was wonderful. The walk back to our little hotel that night after the trout dinner was majestic. Thank you for taking me there.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I didn’t like Berlin that much because it’s so hectic to me but wow! Prague and Cesky Krumlov were my favorite. The town square in Praha is gorgeous, the castle up on the hill. The church in Cesky Krumlov is absolutely beautiful but we couldn’t take pictures! The whole town looks like a fairly tale. Love it!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We’ll thought out and organized

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Enjoyed Prague the most "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was very well organized and very informative. The location of our hotels was conducive to really seeing the historic areas and to getting around each city. Our tour guide, Jana Hronkova, was attentive to everyone's needs and displayed a wealth of knowledge. All the guides in each city were excellent and well informed. On a side note, the breakfasts in each hotel were excellent!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Although there were many special moments, a favorite "wow" moment was in Prague when Jana and Sharka, our local guide, put flowers on the memorial plaque commemorating the Velvet Revolution. We also had a group picture taken there."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our tour guide Jana was excellent making sure we experienced all local customs and food.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Prague Castle complex was our favorite stop. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Rick fulfills his aim for travel—education

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Nearly impossible to choose one, but Cesky Krumlov and Terezin were stand outs."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our 4th Rick Steves tour. The tour was, as usual, well planned, organized and executed. We rave about these tours to all our friends. Berlin was very modern, but given the history of the city, that is understandable. Prague reflected its normal beauty and style. Vienna is a wonder. The Hapsburgs really had their act together as far as projecting power.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The thing that strikes me most is how 400 and 500 year old engineering technology could produce things like the Astronomic clock, the automatons of the Kunsthistorisches museum and the Baroque theater of Cesky Krumlov. The ability to calculate and time the gear ratios in pre-calculus days astounds me. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

How to fit that in 500 words?! It was great, Jana is awesome, the city guides were very good and knowledgeable. The people in my tour were very nice and I will be keeping in touch we a couple of them. The bus driver Peter was fun and had a great helpful attitude.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"All the history, realizing that our guides at their young ages lived through so much of the Hitler era. The other thing for me is the beauty in the buildings and the restoration continually done to retain that. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Understanding thaat Germany has only existed as a unified country for 33 years.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The first sights around the ring of Prague."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I had never been to any of the cities featured on this tour. All my expectations were exceeded - what an incredible experience this was!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I had heard a lot about Prague and in preparing for this tour with my reading, I felt this would be my favorite. All I can say is seeing the astronomical clock and the town square for the first time left me smiling, speechless and in awe. I LOVED EVERYTHING ABOUT PRAGUE."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Wonderful, educational, energizing, thoughtful,

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Fifth Man tour"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Well guided

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Dresden"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Had a great experience. All the guides were very interesting and knowledgeable. There was a variety of experiences and free time to do your own thing.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I found the local guide tours in Berlin to be especially interesting because of the perspective on more recent history. I have to say that I really enjoyed the Danube cruise as it was a lovely day a just very relaxing."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our first Rick Steves tour. It did not disappoint. It was everything we had hoped for and so much more!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"It would have to be Vienna for me. We went to the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the art gallery, and I was amazed at the number of masterpieces housed here. We have been to many galleries in our travels, but this one topped them all."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was a very well run tour and our guide, Jana Kratka, was excellent and well-organized. Everything went off without a hitch.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Terezin Memorial. It was very emotional."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Very busy, informative and fun. Our guide Janna was outstanding

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Prague is wonderful"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Jana, our guide was wonderful. She set us all at ease at our first meeting and was fun and interesting throughout the trip. We visited Berlin, Dresden and Prague and due to Covid wasn’t able to go to Vienna. In Berlin, we had two additional tour guides, one in Terrezin and one in Prague. My overall take away was too much information, repeated often to the point of me tuning out. Perhaps more highlights, a few personal stories and less “chatter”.. Also, have a few mornings that start later.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The astronomical clock in Prague. It was amazing. Built in the 1400’s with amazing accuracy. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We both loved the tour. Our guide Jana was great. We liked how she would interject some of her personal and family experiences with the communism era and the falling of communism. One of us contracted Covid about 2/3rds of the way through out tour. Jana was very helpful in getting us set-up in the hotel and notifying the Rick Steves office. The RS office was also very helpful in making sure that we were OK and made it home safely.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"For me it was when "Pip" was our guide and we went to the Berlin wall park. Being able to actually see some of the wall still standing and the no-man's land, along with where some of the tunnels were dug. Terezin was also very interesting, with another great guide, was very interesting and educational. For my wife, it was seeing all of names of the victims of the holocaust on the walls of the old synagogue in Prague. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Very well organized and great choice of locations

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Danube tour "

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

This was my first RS Tour (but won’t be my last!) and I had a wonderful time and enjoyed all the locations we visited as well as the people on the tour. I did hear from RS veterans that this tour had far more free time than previous tours they had been on, and I too felt that we often “walked around” places without inside. For example, I would have loved to have a guided experience at one of Berlin’s top museums like the Pergamon. That’s the only reason I rated as “very good” vs. “Outstanding”.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The history: The tour was “A Tale of Two H’s”: The Habsburgs and the Holocaust. Reminders of these two periods in history permeated the landscape everywhere we visited. Sadly, due to family history I know all I need to know about the Holocaust. But this trip inspired me to refresh my memory on all the things I forgot from my high school and college classes in world history and Western Civ, which I loved. I’m going to look into “Great Courses” and other classes I can take on European history"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

We loved our tour and Lewis was great and fun to be around- can’t wait to return to more exploring in Europe. We had never been to the three countries we traveled to and it was very enlightening.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"1.Seeing the lovely countryside in Czechia, 2. Our guide,Vera telling us about losing the Russians she was guiding in Italy to defection. 3. Watching the opera ‘Carmen’ in Vienna."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Good tour with a few odd moments ~ “30 minutes” Metro pass in Prague was strange-just get a day pass and turn us loose in the afternoon.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Berlin Wall tour with Matti. Very knowledgeable and helpful."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I learned so much more than I had anticipated about the history and culture of the places we visited. I really enjoyed meeting the other travelers. The schedule pushed us to the limits of our energy, but not beyond, and offered plenty of "down" time to do as we were inclined.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Oddly, my favorite "wow" moments were in Prague, but not durin tour hours. There was a concert on a barge in the Vlatava river (I think in celebration of Prague holding the EU presidency,) and a 6K run through the city. The enthusiasm and pride of the people of Prague was exhilirating and contagious, of course being well-primed by the wonderful Jana Hronkova. That was my favorite."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was a well organized tour that combined historical places and beautiful sites. Our tour guides were very knowledgable and personable. The bus driver was great and it was nice to ride and look at the scenery in between cities. I really enjoyed all the places we visited and the accommodations were very nice and well located.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were a lot of wow moments but Česky Krumlov stands out to me. What a beautiful medieval town. Enjoyed a group dinner in a interesting rock dungeon."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

As a solo traveler, I felt very comfortable and welcome throughout the tour experience. The itinerary offered a nice balance between activity and personal time. Additionally, the vegetarian meals provided were far more delicious than I expected. I thoroughly enjoyed my first Rick Steve's vacation!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Personal highlights included wandering through the charming city of Český Krumlov and cruising through Austria's Wachau Valley along the Danube. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was well organized. We visited interesting places. The tour was a great mix of history and culture.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My favorite “wow” moment was learning from all the guides what it was like to live under communist rule. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour began with the usual meeting, only this time we all showed the results of our recent Covid test to our guide Jana. Jana was a typical RS guide, very knowledgeable, always helpful when needed, and encouraged us to explore on our own.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing where the Berlin Wall stood and existing parts of the wall. Also learning more about the wall and how it affected peoples lives."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour has a great balance between visiting beautiful places, history/political background and opportunities to interact with fellow travelers

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The visit to the remaining sites of the Berlin Wall was very powerful"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I loved the variety of experiences and locations in the tour. The group guide was great, the group was wonderful and the local guides very good. Overall, I am very satisfied with the tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My favorite "wow" moment was seeing Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic (thanks, Rick for discovering this storybook town) and the Baroque Theater, one of only two of the best-preserved baroque theaters in the world. Going under the floorboards of the stage and seeing all the mechanics of how they manually moved the staging apparatus around, etc., was amazing. It really takes you back to the sixteenth century when they created it. Walking around this charming village was lovely!"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

As first timers it was a good introduction to organized touring. We learned a lot and the tour guides, RS and local guides were very organized and informative. The local flavor, food included, is very interesting to us when we travel and that was provided!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"We loved seeing Prague's Old Town square lit up at night! And, wow, for a different reason was learning about the deceitful use of the Terezin Concentration Camp. "

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Very fun, lots of exercise.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I really enjoyed seeing the WWII monuments on the Berlin side of the tour."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Danube cruise, rafting in Czechy Krumlov and that city itself. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our third Rick Steves' Europe tour and they're always tremendous. The group we traveled with was terrific, the guide, the bus driver. We could've used air conditioning in some of the one-night hotels, since the temperatures were 12-15 degrees warmer than average.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I loved the smaller cities that we stopped in. Discovering and roaming around Dresden and Český Krumlov were unforgettable experiences."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Our tour was excellent. Everything was very well planned with a nice combination of group activities and free time

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The theater at Cesky Krumlov was amazing. Watching the way the stage was changed and sets moved with the technology of the day was spectacular. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

From the first hotel to the last, each stop was unique and well crafted for the adventure. The first hotel was a bit off the beaten path and we did spend a good deal of time navigating the streets, but the sites were worth it.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Reduta Jazz Club in Prague - as the event let out, a group of gentlemen who spend their time at the club above the Jazz Club and were quite "happy," blocked our exit. Yana, our tour guide, managed to navigate all of us out of the club and into the street ... where it was pouring down rain with thunder and lightning. As we made our way back, several of us stopped for a traditional Czech Trdelnik. Huddled under an umbrella, we thoroughly enjoyed this treat before slopping our way home."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The Berlin, Prague, and Vienna tour was educational and thoroughly enjoyable. It provided a perfect balance of history, culture, and fun. Each of our city tour guides was extremely knowledgeable and engaging, and our main tour guide, Jana, was exceptional.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"It’s difficult to choose just one, but the Turkish dinner in Berlin and the jazz concert in Prague were both among my top WOW moments!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Excellent content, tour guide and facilities. We enjoyed the tour immensely and will remember these experiences fondly.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Learning about the history in Berlin, I will never be able to unsee those details. "

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

I am a well-traveled (usually tours) person, and had taken a Rick Steves tour several years ago. I admit I do not read all details about a tour before taking it, but I was surprised when the daily itinerary normally ended at noon or 1pm. I expected to have an itinerary for most of the day, as I have with my another company I use, and as I remember on my RS tour in Spain. I obtained a phone plan so I could find my way through cities. I did like the “partial itineraries”, guide, hotels, cities

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Experiencing East Berlin, with its flourishing life! Also, the “Third Man Museum”."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I felt that the first meeting and dinner went well. I received all the information that I needed and felt comfortable right away. I think our guide Ben was well-spoken and knowledgeable, but also approachable and had a sense of humor. The other guides along the way were also good. I think we saw some great sights and probably learned more than if we did this on our own. Some food experiences were better than others. The hotels were mostly good. Myer's was my favorite.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I would say my first walk through Prague and then again at night! It was like being in a different world! The architecture was awesome. The bridge and the river were beautiful! There were so many food choices and many places to sit outdoors and enjoy the scenery."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Very but some reservations. See below

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Danube River cruise"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was wonderful. My husband and I can't stop thinking about it and talking about it. We were constantly learning.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"For me it was seeing the Berlin Wall."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

We saw a lot and learned a lot. Our guide, Ben, was great. We were often exhausted.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The cruise on the Danube was amazingly beautiful!"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Amazing experience exploring Central Europe--an area we didn't have interest in until we saw a RS show on it. Sobering in East Berlin and Terezin, but glad we did it. Ben, our travel guide, was fabulous! Our local guides were also great and added so much. As expected, we not only saw the "must see" sites, but learned about and experienced the local culture.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Loved Chesky Krumlov! What a great vibe! Great dinner that night as well as fun rafting trip. Perfect timing relaxing in a small village before we hit another big city."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We have always wanted to travel to Europe, and finally got our chance…then Covid!!! Seemed like we’d never get there!! I am so glad we waited, though…our tour was better than I ever dreamed!!! Our group seemed genuinely concerned (Covid safety) and interested in each other, an immediate chemistry and ‘good vibe’ between us all. Our tour guide, Ben….beyond compare! He took time to talk and get to know each of us, his calm organization, knowledge of places, and just being a fun guy made it perfect

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I had a total left knee replaced in April 2021and my “inspiration” to work through it was a photo of St Vitus Cathedral as a screensaver on my iPad. Walking into that courtyard was incredible for me…instant happy tears!! "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The pace of the tour was very brisk and we were given a lot of information, which at times was overwhelming. There is so much history in the areas we visited it was challenging to absorb it all, but overall the trip was fantastic!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Probably the visit to Terezin, which was not a "wow" in the typical sense, but a "wow" in learning about a place very few Americans visit or most likely have never heard of. Our guide there was excellent and she brought to life the sobering and tragic history of the place."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Pleasantly surprised by the entire tour. It was physically demanding as announced, but we had a brilliant tour guide and a friendly interactive group that made each day worth celebrating. Each day was full of adventures and amazing sites, and if our afternoon or evening was blank on the itinerary, our guide gave us many suggestions of how we could fill out time based upon our personal desires.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My favorite "wow" moment was the visit to Terezin that highlighted the suffering and dishonesty of the regime that ravaged Europe. Not a happy "wow', but a stunning overwhelming emotional visit."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Guide was great not only in knowledge and organization and helpfulness but also really knew how to bring a group of strangers together into a supportive travel group. We got a good feel for the three large cities, enjoyed the smaller cities, and were moved by the visit to Tetzin (?) and places in Berlin connected to history of Nazi and Communist regimes

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Touring the Schonburg palace in Vienna"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my first Rick Steve’s tour. For me going on a Rick Steve’s Tour was a bucket list item and the Best of Berlin, Prague and Vienna Tour did not disappoint. While we had always used RS books in the past, it was so nice not having to deal with all of the logistics for a change. I appreciated the patience, humor and consideration given by our guide Ben Curtis. The local guides were very knowledgeable and friendly. The hotels were decent and in good locations.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Going down the Danube in a very nice river boat, enjoying the wonderful views and sharing food and wine with new tour friends on beautiful warm pleasant day."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

A delightful surprise in the mixture of relevant history and contemporary art and music.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"On a free night, we booked Rick's recommended Vienna chamber music Mozarthaus concert. It can be tricky to side-step the 'tourist' concerts, but this was the real deal - we were feet from the musicians, in a setting in which Mozart lived and performed. Intimate music and an exquisite Viennese night. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our guide, Ben Curtis, was friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. The sites and activities on this tour were interesting, inspiring and fun. We had a great group of people to travel with.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing the remains of Duke Leopoldo’s castle at Durnstein as we cruised the Danube. Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned there in the 12th century."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I loved all of the places we visited. I just felt the tour was paced way too fast. My brain just could not process the amount of infomation I was receiving. Upon my return, I could not desribe to anyone what I saw.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Terezin"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Well organized. Ben was a resourceful leader who facilitated a great tour. We enjoyed the sites, the cities, and the group.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Cesky Krumlof medieval city from the castle. Seeing Vienna for the first time on the bus riding around the ring. Prague central square. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

My husband and I have used Rick Steves travel books to plan multiple trips abroad over the years but this was our first Rick Steves tour. Overall we were thrilled with our experience from our main guide, Jana, to our local guides, and to the pace of the schedule. Everything was very organized and fun. The small group size allowed us to really make friends with each other. The bus was clean and comfortable and our driver was good humored and very helpful. The experience exceeded my expectations.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Probably that our guide Jana, plus two of our local guides - Toby in Berlin and Sharka in Prague - were so candid in sharing their own personal experiences growing up under communism and also what it was like as it changed. It made it so much more meaningful to talk with someone with a real connection to it."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We always used Rick Steves books to plan our trips and had great experiences. This trip was our first tour experience and we were so glad we did. Our tour guide, Jana, was exceptional! There were 16 of us on tour - a great group of traveling companions. The local tour guides in each city were great. We had the right balance of guided tour time with free time to explore on our own. The group meals were always in interesting places with great food. Planning our next Rick Steves tour!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There wasn’t any one wow moment - it was all great. One of our favorite parts of the trip was the tour guides sharing their personal experiences growing up under Communist rule and the changes after 1989 when the wall fell. While we all learned the history of WWII, one has to visit to fully understand the impact on the people and countries and appreciate the resiliency and rebuilding. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Jana made our tour outstanding. She was an extremely knowledgeable guide and brought out the personal side of life in Germany and Czech Replublic prior to take down of the Berlin wall. Her stories bright to light what life was like during those years in contrast to what we see today. Throughout the tour she was organized, friendly, and helpful especially with free time activities

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Several highlights of the trip include the beautiful city of Prague, jazz concert, rafting in the rain on the Vltava River in Cesky Krumlov, and farewell dinner a traditional Viennese Heuriger"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had a wonderful time on the tour. Enjoyed our travelling companions very much. Everyone was very positive, interesting and fun to be around. Our guide (Jana) was exceptional! Very organized, knowledgeable, consistently pleasant and always on the outlook for a special treat or snack for the group to enjoy. We especially enjoyed the Berliner doughnuts! We were especially impressed that Jana saw us off at 6:30 in the morning on our last day.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Too many to mention just one! Afternoon cruise on a sunny day on the Danube was amazing. Really enjoyed river rafting at Ceski Krumlov even though it was a cold, rainy day. And the jazz concert in Prague was memorable."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was a flawless trip. The tour guide, Jana, was fabulous and everything was well planned and above expectations.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The tour of the Berlin Wall was the high point for me."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I hadn't realized how much of the tour took place in former communist areas (Berlin hotel, Dresden, Czech Republic). Experiencing the areas was something I don't think I could get from books.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There wasn't a single moment, but seeing examples of how Germany/Austria fell into fascism so parallels the United States today."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Fabulous trip. This trip went beyond all my expectations.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"So many the most meaningful was our discussion with Tour Guide Yana and Local Prague Guide Katerina about their lives under the Communist. We were at the plague to honor the students of the Velvet Revolution. Yana and Katerina were about to place flowers when a young boy walked by us. He leaned in and said hello to Yana and kept walking. Yana turned to us (with tears in her eyes) and said that was a Ukranian refugee that the school she teaches in had taken as a student. We were all in tears."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Jana lead an outstanding tour supported by city specialists who added to our experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Jana and city specialist Katerina sharing their story of the “Velvet Revolution “ and leaving flowers are the memorial."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had a stress-free , organized, thoughtful, interesting, tour!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"A tie between The Golden Lane, St Nicholas church, Terezin. Boat trip on the Danube, the theater tour, Cesky Krumlov…"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was a small group which made it very easy to visit sites, enjoy meals and get to know each other. Jana H was an absolute delight to have as a tour guide. She brought love and joy to her country and shared the struggles her country has had during the past years. The entire trip was wonderful.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The wow moment was probably the impromptu coffee break where Katerina (local guide) shared her personal history in Prague as a student. The sharing of flowers in remembrance of their past between Jana and Katerina was so emotional. It was unfortunate that Katerina had a family emergency the second day, but Jana stepped in with all the knowledge and sharing of Prague. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Jana, our guide, created a tour that delivered an outstanding experience. Her enthusiasm, knowledge, and personable demeanor made our travels special and memorable. The sites we visited with our local guides, tied together a narrative that gave me a deeper understanding of history with the rise of fascism, communism, and the emergence of democracy (that we can't take for granted).

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I particularly enjoyed the Danube River cruise and scenic Cesky Krumlov. The optional evening stroll along Prague's Vltava River was a unique experience. To our surprise, Jana lugged bottles of wine in her backpack, allowing our group to share a toast to Prague and our travels. What moved me the most was visiting the Velvet Revolution monument in Prague, and having Katarina (local guide) share her personal experience about living under the communist government as a student."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our experience was amazing. Rick Steves tours provide the best of guided experiences and a free time. We saw things we would never have experienced on our own. We loved our group and guides. Great hotels, excellent food.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"It’s so hard to choose just one! Prague was such a beautiful city, there was “wow” everywhere. The small village of Cesky Kromlov was totally unexpected. Charming with beautiful views. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Overall experience was absolutely wonderful

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The guides: Jana Kratka and Thomas Kreiseler. Especially Jana was so great, detailed and knowledgeable!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I found the organization of the tour to be great. Jana, our wonderful guide, was super organized and very clear in her projections for each day's events. I loved the architecture in all the places we visited--it's what makes Europe so special to me. Still...it was the guides who brought the architecture to life by their history lessons shared along the way.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"SO many wow moments. Though we spent only one day/night in Dresden, witnessing the re-building being done in that beautiful town was probably my biggest wow moment. Not only did I appreciate the high level of craftsmanship, but I was amazed that people collectively have come together to make these structures available to all who visit--preserving/renovating the buildings and the history at the same time. It's a sense of pride in a community that is so often lacking in parts of the world. "

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Jana was our tour guide(with Tomas as assistant/apprentice) who made sure we got in to see all the important sites in all the cities we were exploring. She was incredibly skillful at making sure we were ready and prepared for each day's activities, with surprises and treats thrown in to make our tour experience fulfilling. This was an incredibly educational and historical adventure and I feel like I need to follow up the tour with a refresher from the guidebooks and some independent study.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I think the presentation by Honza in Prague of the history on the Czech struggle for independence by someone who participated in actions in Wenceslas Square was very moving and impactful. He also made the history of the struggle in the Jewish Quarter come alive for us. While I can remember the 1968 protests and the downfall of the Eastern Bloc in 1989, it is much more alive when presented by somebody who was physically present for those historic events. "

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I found the tour very well organized and well-paced. Jana, our tour guide, was very attentive to our needs, questions, etc. and made me feel very welcome. The hotels we stayed in were all clean, unique and had delicious breakfasts. We stayed in a good variety of big cities, smaller cities and a couple of small, charming towns.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were so many! Visiting the Charles Bridge at night--it was beautiful!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I love the itinerary for this tour. The tour met my expectations. Our tour guide Jana was outstanding, very knowledgeable and work well this the tour group.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Cesky Krumlov was just wonderful. The perfect example of the old Europe we were looking for."