Imperial Capital Cities

Meet at the airport in London or travel to your local airport for your flight to the vibrant city of Berlin. On arrival, you transfer to your hotel for the next two nights.

• Dinner

Today begins with a fascinating guided tour that introduces you to the best of historic Berlin. Take in the city's most famous sights including the Brandenburg Gate, an 18th-century neoclassical structure that was once a symbol of division but now stands as a monument for peace and unity. You also see the 19th-century Reichstag Building, and the remains of the Berlin Wall, which once divided the city from East to West. The afternoon is free to continue exploring. This evening, you may like to visit the Opera House, home of the world-famous Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra.

• Breakfast

After a relaxed morning in Berlin, you catch the train to the exciting city of Prague, checking into your hotel for the next three nights. Prague's cobblestone bridge, medieval streets and remarkable architecture all make up a fantastic city of sights, sounds and cultural charm. Known as the 'City of a Hundred Spires' due to the dozens of soaring spires, towers and steeples that define its skyline, Prague is a delight to explore. Every corner you turn reveals new wonders and it's easy to keep on wandering as you encounter ancient churches, vibrant market squares and unique buildings. Pause to rest in a shady courtyard or pretty park with a city view or spend time in one of the many colourful cafés and bars.

• Breakfast, Dinner

This morning you discover the 'Golden City' of Prague on a guided walking tour, seeing its many cultural and architectural highlights. Admire the medieval Charles Bridge, an arched stone bridge that spans the Vltava River and dates back to 1357. You also see the Old Town Square, surrounded by ancient buildings and towering churches, as well as the city's famous castle. Built in the 9th century, Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world, and the complex offers spectacular views across Prague's iconic skyline from its elevated position.

• Breakfast

Today is free for your own explorations in Prague, and there's plenty here to keep you occupied. You could visit Josefov, also known as 'the Jewish Quarter.' Located between the Old Town Square and the Vltava River, Josefov's history dates back to the 13th century and it is filled with stunning architecture. Make sure to find time to visit one of the city's many lively beer taverns as the beer here is reputed to be the best in the whole of Europe.

• Breakfast

Take the train to Vienna, Austria's capital and the former seat of the Hapsburg Empire, where you spend the next two nights. With its artistic heritage, Imperial architecture and enticing culture, Vienna is one of Europe's great capitals. You're introduced to the city as you head out on a guided tour. You discover the famous Ringstrasse, a grand, circular boulevard that encircles the historic cities. You also stroll amongst the cobbled streets and narrow houses of Vienna's charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy a free day in Vienna to get to know the city at your own pace. You could visit Stephansdom, or St Stephen's Cathedral, the seat of the Archbishop of Vienna. This Gothic masterpiece is famed for its stunning tiled roof, patterned with bright, multi-coloured chevrons and ornately patterned Viennese eagles. Climbing to the top of the spire gives you a superb panorama across the city. Or visit the spectacular Schönbrunn Palace, one of the city's most striking buildings, for a peaceful stroll through its extensive gardens.

• Breakfast

Journey by rail over the Hungarian border to Budapest - a city of two halves, divided by the mighty River Danube and connected by a host of beautiful bridges. A delight to spend time in, Budapest boasts grand 19th-century architecture, cobbled streets, and stunning Baroque bathhouses. You spend three nights here and this evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. After dinner, you take a night-time coach tour, seeing the many sights of the city illuminated against the night sky.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Embark upon a guided tour today that showcases the very best of Budapest. Your tour takes you to the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, the most famous of the city's many bridges, as well as Heroes' Square. Flanked by the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art, Heroes' Square is one of the major squares in Budapest and is home to the iconic Millennium Monument. You also admire the beautiful St Stephen's Basilica and Fishermen's Bastion, a neo-Gothic masterpiece.

• Breakfast

Enjoy free time to continue making your own discoveries in Budapest. You could make an appointment at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, the largest medicinal bath in Europe, or perhaps treat yourself to some cake and coffee at Café New York. Opened at the end of the 19th century, the café is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful coffee houses in the world, and the elegance of its interiors is nothing short of mesmerising. On the way back to the hotel, it's worth stopping off at the Great Market Hall, where you can shop and people-watch like a local.

• Breakfast

After breakfast, travel to the airport for the flight to the UK. Landing in London, or at your local airport, your holiday comes to an end.

• Breakfast