East European Wonders

About the destination: The capital city of Germany, Berlin, is one of the most exciting and historically rich places in both Germany and Europe. No other German city offers as much "visible" history, despite the scars of World War II and the division during the Cold War era. No other German city boasts such a vibrant cultural life. The architecture in Berlin is incredibly diverse. It's now possible to see examples of many different historical periods in a short span of time within the city center, from a few remaining medieval buildings near Alexanderplatz, to the ultra-modern glass and steel structures at Potsdamer Platz. Due to its tumultuous history, Berlin remains a city with many unique neighborhoods. Berlin has many facets. It is a charming, cosmopolitan, multicultural, and multiethnic city with very friendly locals and a plethora of things to do and see.

About the destination: Prague is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic. It is situated on the Vltava River in the heart of Bohemia. Prague is considered one of the most stunning cities in Europe. It is a must-visit for those interested in art, history, classical music, and architecture. Every corner of the city is adorned with beautiful buildings and architecture. The Vltava River flows through the center of Prague. Numerous bridges cross the river, but the pedestrianized Charles Bridge, with its blend of Gothic construction and Baroque statues, is a major attraction for visitors. Street vendors sell a variety of items here, and the Castle, considered the historical heart of the city, can be seen on a hill in the distance. The Old Town Square, one of two main squares in Prague, is home to some of the city's main attractions, including the Old Town Hall Tower, the Astronomical Clock, the Church of Our Lady before Tyn, and St. Nicholas Church. Since 1992, Prague's historic center has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Prague's city center is a 900-year-old architectural museum. It features Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, 19th-century revivals of all these styles, and Art Nouveau architecture, all remarkably untouched by the 20th century. Prague is truly an architectural gem.

About the destination: Krakow is stunning, a gem among European cities. Since the 9th century, people have been residing and constructing here. The Old Town historic district at the heart of Krakow is actually the medieval city established in 1257. Krakow continues to be the unrivaled architectural capital of Poland and houses one of the oldest universities in Europe. The numerous parks and the Planty, the green belt encircling the city center, make Krakow a fantastic city to visit. The entire old town of Krakow, known as stare miasto, is charming, with every street worth a leisurely walk. At its core is the Rynek Glowny, one of the most stunning market squares in Europe. The Kosciol Mariacki, located in its northeast corner, is a lavishly decorated cathedral, boasting a 500-year-old carved altarpiece. Diagonally across the square stands the solitary town hall tower, which was spared when the rest of the building was demolished in 1820. Positioned on the Wista River is the Wawel Castle, the finest surviving example of Renaissance architecture in Poland. The castle was the royal seat of Poland and is the city's main tourist attraction. The grounds include the palace, a massive Cathedral, and a large garden. The Royal Cathedral, which dominates the Wawel complex, was the coronation site and burial place for nearly all of Poland's monarchs. Constructed in the early 11th century in Romanesque style, its tower provides a magnificent view of Krakow. The beauty of its ancient architecture, the atmosphere of rich culture, art, and literature, and the allure of its numerous cafes, bars, and pubs, always bustling with locals and tourists, make this city one of the world's top tourist destinations.

About the destination: Vienna is the capital and the largest city of the Republic of Austria. This beautiful, romantic city is renowned for its coffee culture and cafes, classical music and concert halls, historical buildings, horse-drawn carriages, and its enchanting streets. Vienna boasts a rich cultural diversity, and its central location in Europe makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the continent. Vienna is a remarkable city to visit, characterized by the Ringstrasse, a four-kilometer-long boulevard that encircles the city center. The city is replete with modern amenities and attractions, yet it is also steeped in reminders of its rich historical and cultural heritage. Outstanding museums, palaces, gardens, architectural masterpieces, remnants of ancient inhabitants, statues, and grand cafes coexist with trendy shops, top-notch restaurants, accessible music venues, contemporary museums and sculptures, and luxury hotels, making Vienna incredibly appealing. The extensive pedestrian-only streets of the old city are a joy to explore, lined with beautiful old buildings, bustling with people of all ages, filled with local shops, boutiques and cafes, and offering surprises at every turn. The city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Vienna is a blend of history and music, poetry and culture, modernism and tradition, nostalgia and grandeur.