Overview: Golden Prague!  The city of Slavic legends comes alive as you join a local guide for a walking tour around the Castle, Cathedral and Old Town.   From atop the hill at the castle you will see “Golden Prague”, with over 500 church spires and the silvery winding ribbon of the Vltava River.  Prague’s castle is the largest preserved fortress from the middle ages in all of Europe.  Personal time can be spent wandering off the beaten track into Prague’s side streets and courtyards, visiting the Christmas markets on Old Town and Wenceslas Squares, or the smaller markets ten minutes away at Havelske Trziste and Namesti Republiky.  Perhaps you will be tempted by the crystal and garnet shops, or the windows full of traditionally painted decorations and unique table linens. Street musicians and performers liven the atmosphere, and tempting Czech winter foods scent the air – so be sure to keep some change available!

In Karlovy Vary, your time is your own.  Discover Christmas treasures among the traditional wares of this shoppers’ paradise. You can fulfill your grandest dreams of crystal chandeliers and stemware - or look for the Pupp Hotel,  Russian Orthodox Cathedral and other architectural gems.  Or escape from the hustle and bustle with a spa visit.

Day 1:  The tour begins with departures for overnight travel to Prague.

Day 2:  After arrival in Prague, enjoy breakfast in your centrally-located hotel (included). Travel by bus downtown and explore the castle area and Old Town with a local guide.  After the walking tour, the RTT guide and bus return to the hotel. Alternatively, individual return to the hotel later in the afternoon with tram or metro is possible.  The afternoon hours allow free time for lunch and exploring the sights, Christmas market stalls, and entertainment.  After freshening up, enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise on the Moldau River (included).  Passengers are free for the rest of the evening to pursue their own plans. Taxi, tram or metro service is available from the hotel lobby or near the hotel.

Day 3:  After breakfast (included), depart and travel directly to Karlovy Vary to take advantage of the luxury town’s shops and hospitality.  A walking orientation opens the way for personal explorations in this world-famous spa resort.  Shops and sights are open to visit.  Purchases are possible for crystal, chandeliers, garnet and amber jewelry and much more! 

Begin the journey homeward in the afternoon with a dinner stop in Germany, arriving at points of departure before midnight.