About the Journey 

Discover three of Central Europe’s great capitals on this Princeton-exclusive adventure to Budapest, Hungary; Bratislava, Slovakia; and Prague, Czech Republic. 

The journey begins with an in-depth look at Budapest with four nights at the iconic Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal, a landmark property that has hosted legends such as Franz Liszt and Josephine Baker. Explore Budapest’s atmospheric Hapsburg architecture, tour the lavish neo-Renaissance Opera House, and walk Castle Hill, taking in breathtaking city views. 

Uncover layers of the city’s millennia of history, including moving stories of the Holocaust at the Dohany Street Synagogue and the Shoes on the Danube Bank Monument, where a local Jewish youth joins the group. The monumental parliament building defines Budapest’s skyline; see this grand structure by both day and night, cruising past its dramatically lit façade from the Danube River during a private dinner cruise. 

Travel next to Bratislava, Slovakia’s riverside capital, for an overnight with panoramic views of the castle and Old Town. Take a guided tour of the medieval streets, historic sites, and quirky street art of this compact city, a hidden gem among Europe’s capitals. Stop in Brno, the Czech Republic’s second largest city, taking in its magnificent churches, hilltop Spilberk Castle, and the crooked spire of its Old Town.

Conclude the adventure with the Gothic spires, baroque squares, and beautifully-preserved churches and palaces of Prague. Tour Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world; see St. Vitus Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture; tour the Jewish Quarter; and discover the treasures of the Strahov Monastery, including an organ played by Mozart and one of the world’s oldest working libraries. 

As you journey through these beautiful, fairytale-esque cities, enjoy musical performances, hands-on activities, a variety of local flavors, and the great company of fellow Princetonians. 

Accommodation 

Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal Budapest, Hungary 
The five-star Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal belongs to the selective list of the Most Famous Hotels in the World, and its prominent façade has been a city landmark since 1896. The distinguished interior features a six-story sunlit atrium and the lavish Art Deco-era Royal Spa, and its stunning rooms have hosted an array of global icons, including Franz Liszt, Josephine Baker, and Wes Anderson. The hotel features a variety of restaurants serving refined global cuisine, bars with evening musical performances, and 24-hour room service. 

Grand Hotel River Park Bratislava, Slovakia 
Located on the banks of the Danube River, the centrally located Grand Hotel River Park offers panoramic views of Bratislava Castle and the Old Town. The hotel features a lounge, cigar bar, a luxurious spa and fitness center with an indoor pool, and a riverside restaurant offering outdoor seating with a river promenade view. A rooftop heliport and a private river pier and terrace round out the hotel’s unique amenities. 

Hilton Prague Old Town Prague, Czech Republic 
The stylish, Art Deco-style Hilton Prague Old Town is situated in the heart of Prague’s historic district, steps from the Powder Tower and Republic Square. The hotel features three hundred well-appointed guest rooms and contemporary interior design. Amenities include a pool, fitness center, sophisticated onsite Zinc Restaurant, Lounge & Bar, and 24-hour room service. 

Reservations 

Registration is not yet open for this journey. Please request a brochure or contact the Princeton Journeys team at journeys@princeton.edu / 609.258.8686 with questions.