EASTERN EUROPE'S GRANDEUR: PRAGUE, VIENNA & BUDAPEST

Meals

• Your dream Eastern Europe vacation officially begins today! Get ready for an incredible journey as you depart from the bustling heart of South India on a comprehensive Europe group tour from Bangalore.
• Evening: Journey to the Airport
• Make your way to Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) as per your scheduled reporting time. We recommend arriving at least 3.5 to 4 hours prior to your flight departure to allow for a smooth check-in process.
• Late Evening: Meet, Greet & Gearing Up
• Upon arrival at the departure terminal, you'll be greeted by your friendly and experienced Benchmark Holidays Tour Manager. They will assist you with the group check-in, ensuring a seamless experience for the entire party. This is the perfect time to meet your fellow travelers, share in the excitement, and ask any last-minute questions about your upcoming adventure.
• The Final Formalities
• Once your group check-in is complete, you will proceed to the immigration and security checkpoints. Your Tour Manager will guide you through the process, making sure all formalities are handled efficiently. With your boarding pass in hand and passport stamped, you're officially ready to embark on your European journey.
• Overnight: Flight to Prague
• Board your overnight flight to Prague, the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic. As you settle into your seat, you can start to anticipate the stunning sights and rich history that await you. Enjoy a relaxing journey, get some rest, and prepare to arrive in style, ready for your Prague tour package to begin.

Meals Lunch Dinner

• Morning/Afternoon: Welcome to Prague, the City of a Hundred Spires Upon arrival at Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG), you will be greeted by your friendly Benchmark Holidays tour manager. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to your centrally located hotel, where you will check in and have time to freshen up after your journey. Take a moment to settle in and prepare for an afternoon of enchanting exploration in the Czech Republic's captivating capital.
• Indian Lunch: A delightful Indian lunch will provide a perfect break before your next exciting stop.
• Late Afternoon: An Orientation Tour of Prague's Old Town Begin your Prague city tour with a leisurely orientation walk that feels like stepping back in time. Your guide will lead you through the cobblestone alleys of the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Old Town Square, where centuries of history come to life. Marvel at the stunning Gothic and Baroque architecture, including the intricate facade of the Church of Our Lady before Týn. The highlight of the afternoon will be witnessing the famous Prague Astronomical Clock on the Old Town Hall. As the clock strikes the hour, you'll be treated to the mesmerizing mechanical show of the "Walk of the Apostles."
• Evening: Authentic Flavors in the Heart of Prague Experience the culinary diversity of Prague with a delightful dinner at a top-rated Indian restaurant. Savor authentic Indian cuisine, a perfect blend of rich spices and traditional flavors, offering a taste of home in this European setting.
• Overnight Stay: Hotel in Prague Relax and unwind in a comfortable hotel, strategically chosen for its proximity to Prague's main attractions, ensuring you are never far from the city's charm.

Meals Breakfast Lunch Dinner

• Morning: Explore the Majestic Prague Castle after a hearty breakfast before embarking on a journey to the heart of Bohemian royalty. Today's highlight is a comprehensive Prague Castle tour, a monumental complex that has served as the seat of Czech kings, emperors, and presidents for over a thousand years. Perched majestically on a hill overlooking the city, it is the largest ancient castle in the world and a key landmark on any Prague itinerary.
• Your guided visit will take you through the courtyards and historic buildings, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Prague from various vantage points. Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture of St. Vitus Cathedral, the spiritual heart of the Czech state. Admire its intricate stained-glass windows, including the famous Mucha Window, and the breathtaking flying buttresses. Depending on the day's schedule, you will have the opportunity for both an exterior and interior visit, allowing you to fully appreciate the scale and artistry of this magnificent structure.
• Indian Lunch: A delightful Indian lunch will provide a perfect break before your next exciting stop.
• Afternoon: A Serene Vltava River Cruise After soaking in the royal atmosphere, descend towards the Vltava River for a tranquil and scenic Vltava River cruise. This relaxing one-hour boat tour offers a unique and memorable perspective of Prague's most iconic landmarks. Glide past the majestic Charles Bridge, with its statues looking down upon you, and see the picturesque Old Town from a different angle. The cruise provides excellent photo opportunities of the Prague Castle complex, the Lesser Town (Malá Strana), and the unique architecture lining the riverbanks.
• Evening: Dinner and Prague's Vibrant Nightlife As evening falls, enjoy a delicious dinner at another exceptional Indian restaurant, offering a new array of flavors and culinary delights. Following your meal, the evening is yours to customize. You may opt to immerse yourself in Prague's vibrant cultural scene with an optional visit to a classical music concert or a traditional Czech performance. Alternatively, feel free to explore the local nightlife, from the charming pubs in the Old Town to the bustling bars in the New Town.
• Overnight Stay: Hotel in Prague Return to your comfortable hotel in Prague for a restful night, dreaming of the day's historical and scenic highlights.

Meals Breakfast Lunch Dinner

• Morning: Farewell to Prague, Hello to a New Adventure Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your Prague hotel before checking out. With fond memories of this Bohemian gem, board your comfortable coach as we begin our scenic journey towards Vienna, the imperial capital of Austria. The drive, a comfortable 4 to 5-hour trip, will take us through the beautiful countryside of the Czech Republic and into the heart of Central Europe.
• Afternoon: Bratislava - A Charming Slovakian Interlude Our journey includes a fascinating detour with a special Bratislava day tour. The capital of Slovakia, Bratislava, is a compact city with a rich history and a vibrant atmosphere.
• Upon arrival, you will embark on a walking tour of the historic city center, a pedestrian-friendly area perfect for exploration. Admire the charming , wander through the quaint squares, and discover the city's quirky bronze statues, such as the famous Čumil (the man at work).
• A key highlight of your visit will be the imposing Bratislava Castle. Perched on a hill overlooking the Danube River, this iconic landmark offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and even glimpses of Austria on a clear day. The castle, which has been the site of a fortified settlement for thousands of years, now houses the Museum of History, and its courtyards are a perfect place to absorb the city's unique history and culture.
• Indian Lunch: A delightful Indian lunch will provide a perfect break before your next exciting stop.
• Late Afternoon: Arrival in Vienna, the Imperial City After your enriching visit to Bratislava, we will continue our drive to Vienna, Austria. Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel, providing a much-needed opportunity to relax and settle into your new surroundings.
• Evening: A Taste of India in the City of Music As the evening descends on Vienna, prepare for another delicious dining experience. We will enjoy dinner at a renowned Indian restaurant, offering a comforting and flavorful meal to cap off a day of travel and sightseeing.
• Overnight Stay: Hotel in Vienna Settle in for a comfortable night's rest in Vienna, ready to wake up and explore the city's stunning palaces, grand boulevards, and classical music heritage.

Meals Breakfast Lunch Dinner

• Morning: A Royal Morning at Schönbrunn Palace After a delicious breakfast, prepare to be transported to the golden age of the Habsburg monarchy. Today's main attraction is a visit to the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, the former imperial summer residence and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This grand Baroque masterpiece, with its over 1,441 rooms, offers a glimpse into the lavish lives of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Sisi.
• Your guided tour will take you through the opulent state rooms and private apartments, where you'll hear fascinating stories of the palace's history and its famous residents. Following the interior visit, take a leisurely stroll through the sprawling Schönbrunn Gardens. These meticulously manicured grounds are a highlight in themselves, featuring the stunning Gloriette and a charming array of fountains, statues, and tree-lined avenues.
• Indian Lunch: A delightful Indian lunch will provide a perfect break before your next exciting stop.
• Afternoon: Retail Therapy at Parndorf Designer Outlet After indulging in imperial history, get ready for some world-class shopping. We will travel to the nearby Parndorf Designer Outlet, a shopper's paradise. Known as one of the best outlet centers in Europe, Parndorf offers a vast selection of designer brands at discounted prices. Whether you're looking for high fashion, sportswear, or home goods, you're sure to find a great deal on your favorite labels. Spend the afternoon browsing the collections and finding the perfect souvenirs or gifts.
• Evening: A Delicious Farewell to Vienna's Flavors Return to Vienna in the evening and enjoy a final, savory dinner at another top-rated Indian restaurant. Reflect on your day of both historical immersion and modern-day luxury, savoring a meal that feels both familiar and special.
• Overnight Stay: Hotel in Vienna Relax and recharge at your comfortable hotel in Vienna, ready for another exciting day of exploration.

Meals Breakfast Lunch Dinner

• Morning: After breakfast at the hotel, A Grand Tour of Vienna's Imperial Highlights Start your day with a comprehensive guided city tour of Vienna. This tour will introduce you to the city's most iconic landmarks and historic sites. You'll drive along the famous Ringstrasse, a magnificent boulevard lined with grand buildings, including the Vienna State Opera, the Parliament, City Hall, and the Hofburg Palace.
• A key part of your tour will be a visit to St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom), a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and Vienna's most important religious building. Step inside to admire its towering spires and intricate interior, which has been a spiritual and historical heart of the city for centuries. You'll also explore the bustling city center on foot, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and charming architecture.
• Indian Lunch: A delightful Indian lunch will provide a perfect break before your next exciting stop.
• Afternoon: Free Time for Shopping & Exploration After the guided tour, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. For those who love to shop, this is the perfect opportunity to explore Mariahilfer Strasse, Vienna's largest and most popular shopping street. This bustling boulevard offers a mix of high-street brands, department stores, and local boutiques. Alternatively, you can choose to visit a local cafe, explore a museum, or simply relax in one of Vienna's beautiful parks.
• Evening: Dinner & Optional Viennese Delights Tonight, we'll gather for a final dinner at a delicious Indian restaurant, celebrating our time in Vienna. For those looking for an extra touch of culture, you have the option to attend a classical music concert. Vienna is the "City of Music," and a performance of Mozart or Strauss is a quintessential Viennese experience. For a more thrilling evening, you can opt to visit the iconic Prater Amusement Park, home to the famous Giant Ferris Wheel.
• Overnight Stay: Hotel in Vienna Enjoy your final night in Vienna at your comfortable hotel, reminiscing about the grand palaces, stunning architecture, and rich cultural experiences of the past few days.

Meals Breakfast Lunch Dinner

• Morning: Farewell to Vienna, Journey to Budapest Enjoy your Austrian breakfast before checking out of your hotel. Bid farewell to the imperial city of Vienna as we begin our comfortable journey to Budapest, the vibrant capital of Hungary. The scenic drive of approximately 3 to 4 hours will take us through the picturesque landscapes of Austria and into the heart of Hungary, where the majestic Danube River divides the historic cities of Buda and Pest.
• Afternoon: Arrival in Budapest & Check-in Upon arrival in Budapest, you will check into your hotel. Take some time to freshen up and prepare for an exciting afternoon of discovery in this magnificent city.
• Indian Lunch: A delightful Indian lunch will provide a perfect break before your next exciting stop.
• Late Afternoon: The Grandeur of Budapest Revealed Begin your comprehensive Budapest city tour, a journey through the city's rich history and stunning architecture. Your tour will start at the monumental Heroes' Square (Hősök tere), a landmark adorned with statues of the seven chieftains of the Magyars, symbolizing Hungary's history. From there, you will visit the charming Vajdahunyad Castle, a unique architectural wonder that showcases various Hungarian styles. You will also enjoy a leisurely stroll along the grand Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Budapest's 19th-century golden age, lined with beautiful neo-Renaissance palaces and mansions.
• Evening: A Taste of India in the Heart of Hungary After a day of grand sightseeing, enjoy a comforting dinner at a well-regarded Indian restaurant. The rich flavors will be a perfect way to relax and reflect on your first day in this incredible city.
• Overnight Stay: Hotel in Budapest Settle in for a comfortable night at your hotel in Budapest, ready to explore more of this captivating city in the days to come.

Meals Breakfast

• Morning: A Walk on the Buda Side After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, prepare to explore the historic Buda side of the city. We'll begin by crossing the iconic Chain Bridge, a magnificent suspension bridge that gracefully connects the two sides of the city. As you walk, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Parliament building and the picturesque riverbanks.
• Explore the Buda Castle District Once on the Buda side, we will ascend to the Buda Castle District, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with historic buildings and cobbled streets. Your tour will take you to the magnificent Fisherman's Bastion, a fairytale-like terrace that offers the most incredible panoramic views of the city, including the iconic Parliament building, the Danube River, and Pest's grand boulevards. You'll also visit the stunning Matthias Church, a Gothic masterpiece with a unique diamond-patterned tile roof, where Hungarian kings were crowned.
• Indian Lunch: A delightful Indian lunch will provide a perfect break before your next exciting stop.
• Afternoon: A Danube River Cruise After exploring the historic castle district, we'll embark on a relaxing 1-hour Danube River cruise. This is the perfect way to see Budapest from a different perspective. Glide along the river, passing beneath the city's famous bridges and admiring the stunning architecture of the Parliament, Buda Castle, and the Gellért Hill, all illuminated by the afternoon sun.
• Evening: Dinner at Indian Restaurant, we will celebrate the end of our incredible journey with a special Group Farewell Dinner at a popular Indian restaurant. Share stories and laughter with your fellow travellers, reminiscing about the beautiful sights and unforgettable moments you've experienced together throughout your tour of Eastern Europe.
• Overnight Stay: Hotel in Budapest Return to your hotel for a final night in Budapest, filled with happy memories of your grand tour.

Meals Breakfast

• Morning: A Hungarian Breakfast Enjoy a last delicious breakfast at your Budapest hotel. Take a moment to reflect on your incredible journey through the heart of Eastern Europe, from the historic streets of Prague to the imperial grandeur of Vienna and the vibrant energy of Budapest.
• Check-out and Departure After breakfast, it will be time to check out from the hotel. Your Benchmark Holidays tour manager will assist you with a comfortable transfer to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) for your departure flight.
• Carry Wonderful Memories As you depart, you'll carry with you not just souvenirs, but a collection of unforgettable Eastern Europe travel memories. The fairytale castles, majestic rivers, and charming cityscapes you've experienced will stay with you long after you've returned home. Thank you for choosing Benchmark Holidays for your adventure!

• Your "Eastern Europe's Grandeur: Prague, Vienna & Budapest" package with Benchmark Holidays includes the following to ensure a comfortable and memorable journey:
• International Airfare: Round-trip economy class airfare from Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), Bangalore to Prague (PRG) and from Budapest (BUD) to Bangalore (BLR) as per the itinerary.
• Accommodation: 07 nights accommodation in well-appointed 4-star hotels (or similar category) on a twin/triple sharing basis as per the itinerary.
• 02 Nights Accommodation in Prague
• 03 Nights Accommodation in Vienna
• 02 Nights Accommodation in Budapest
• Daily Breakfast at the hotel.
• All Lunches and Dinners at Indian restaurants as specified in the itinerary.
• Inter-city Transportation: All inter-city transfers and sightseeing by comfortable private air-conditioned coach as per the detailed itinerary. (Please note: Coach will be point-to-point as per itinerary, not on disposal).
• Airport Transfers: All airport transfers (arrival and departure) on a group basis.
• Meet & Greet: Services of a Benchmark Holidays Tour Manager from Bangalore throughout the tour.
• Sightseeing & Excursions: All entrance fees and activities as mentioned in the itinerary:
• Prague: Orientation Tour of Old Town Square (Astronomical Clock), Prague Castle Complex (including St. Vitus Cathedral), Charles Bridge.
• Vienna: Panoramic City Tour (Ringstrasse, Opera, Parliament, City Hall), Schönbrunn Palace (interior visit), St. Stephen's Cathedral, Danube River Cruise (seasonal).
• Budapest: City Tour (Heroes' Square, Vajdahunyad Castle, Andrassy Avenue), Buda Castle District (Fisherman's Bastion, Matthias Church), Chain Bridge.
• Visa Assistance: Guidance and assistance with Schengen visa application process. (Visa fees not included).
• Travel Insurance: Overseas travel insurance for travelers up to 60 years of age. (Specific coverage details will be provided).
• No Hidden Costs: We pride ourselves on transparency. What you see is what you get.

• To ensure complete clarity, the following items are not included in your package cost:
• Government Service Tax (GST) & TCS: As applicable on the total billing amount as per Government regulations.
• Optional Tours/Activities: Any activities or excursions not specifically mentioned in the "Inclusions" section.
• Personal Expenses: Laundry, telephone calls, mini-bar consumption, porterage at hotels/airports, tips to guides/drivers/porters, beverages (alcoholic & non-alcoholic) with meals unless specified, and all other items of personal nature.
• Room Service: Charges for any room service availed at hotels.
• Early Check-in/Late Check-out: Charges for early hotel check-in or late check-out, which are subject to availability and hotel discretion.
• Surcharges: Any peak season, festival, or high demand surcharges that may apply at the time of booking or during the travel period.
• Foreign Exchange Fluctuations: Any increase in the rate of exchange leading to an increase in land arrangements, which may come into effect prior to departure.
• Medical Expenses: Any medical expenses or hospitalization costs not covered by standard travel insurance, or for pre-existing medical conditions.
• Damage Charges: Any damage caused to hotel rooms or the coach during your stay, which shall be borne by the concerned passengers.
• Force Majeure: Expenses incurred due to unforeseen circumstances such as natural calamities (e.g., landslides, floods), strikes, war, political unrest, flight delays/cancellations, or any other events beyond the control of Benchmark Holidays. Any additional costs arising from such situations will be borne by the client.
• Baggage Allowance/Overweight Charges: Any charges for excess baggage or special baggage.
• Meals/Services Not Utilized: No refunds will be provided for any meals, sightseeing, or services not utilized by the passenger during the tour.
• Anything Not Specifically Mentioned: Any item or service not explicitly listed under the "Inclusions" section.