Enjoying a prime location on the banks of the River Vltava and a few minutes walk from the Old Town Square, the Hotel President has recently re-opened following complete refurbishment to the highest standards. The city of Prague has always held an allure for the Western traveller. The name itself conjures scenes of elegance and architectural splendour, for this Christmas treat epitomises the grandeur bequeathed by the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Located on the banks of the river Vltava, Prague is also renowned for its magnificent Baroque, Romanesque and Gothic architecture, as well as for its rich cultural heritage dating back centuries. Great composers such as Dvorak were born in the Czech Republic and others including Beethoven, Liszt and Mozart all spent time in the beautiful city of Prague. Situated just off Wenceslas Square in the heart of the city, the 5-star Hotel President, Prague provides the perfect base for discovering the splendours of Prague and its surrounding countryside.
Prague • Karlstejn • Nelahozeves
DAY 1 LONDON • PRAGUE
We begin with Titan's VIP Home Departure Service™ to London Heathrow and your direct scheduled British Airways or Czech Airlines flight to Prague. On arrival our coach transfers us to the Hotel President, Prague. We enjoy a welcome drink with our hosts followed by dinner.
DAY 2 PRAGUE
After breakfast we have arranged a guided walking tour of the old town. Beginning in Wenceslas Square, named after the Good King in the 19th century carol who was murdered by his brother for his Christian beliefs, we continue to the National Theatre and to the Charles Bridge, the latter making Prague one of Europe's most beautiful cities. The afternoon is free to explore this fascinating city. The cobbled streets lined with magnificent Baroque and Romanesque architecture complement the wonderful views from the ancient Charles Bridge which spans the River Vltava. Apart from its historical and architectural attractions, Prague has an abundance of elegant shops and fashionable small boutiques. The Christmas Market is known for the wonderful handmade toys, candles, folk art and puppets that are on sale from the stall vendors, as well as the hot spiced wine and hot chocolate that are local specialities.
DAY 3 NELAHOZEVES
After breakfast we join our coach for the drive to Nelahozeves, the birthplace of Antonjn Dvorak, composer of the Slavonic Dances and the ‘New World’ Symphony. The village is dominated by an austere château, the residence of the Lobkowicz family. The exterior Renaissance facades have been very well preserved as have much of the interiors. You will have the opportunity to view the stunning picture gallery containing works from many European masters alongside the most extensive collection of Spanish portraits outside of Spain. This evening a Christmas Eve dinner has been arranged for you. Your tour manager will have details of local churches should you wish to join the Christmas Eve celebrations.
DAY 4 PRAGUE - CHRISTMAS DAY
This morning is at leisure when you may wish to take a stroll to work up an appetite for your Christmas Day lunch. Perhaps visit the Lesser Town, affording great views of Prague Castle and where one can discover historic squares or walk through Vojan Park, dotted with chapels and statues. This afternoon you are free to relax before enjoying a buffet dinner followed by musical entertainment.
DAY 5 PRAGUE • KARLSTEJN - BOXING DAY
After breakfast we visit the Strahov Monastery, founded in 1140 which, despite the attempts made to dissolve it, survived as a religious community until the arrival of Communism. We continue to the Royal Palace, home to the Kings and Princes of Bohemia and the extravagant St Vitus’ Cathedral. In the afternoon we continue to Karlstejn to view the magnificent castle, a favourite retreat of Emperor Charles IV. The castle was founded in 1348 and consecrated in 1365. Originally in Gothic style, the castle has seen three reconstructions in differing styles, the latter being in the late 19th century in neo-Gothic style. Unique to this castle is the original collection of 129 wall paintings dating back to the 14th century. We return to our hotel for evening dinner.
DAY 6 PRAGUE • LONDON
After a fine breakfast we say farewell to our hosts and depart for Prague Airport and our British Airways or Czech Airlines direct scheduled flight to London. On arrival at London Heathrow our staff will greet you and transfer you to Titan transport for your journey home to your front door.
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