10.07.2015 Views

Download catalogue in PDF - Via Hansa

Download catalogue in PDF - Via Hansa

Download catalogue in PDF - Via Hansa

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS
  • No tags were found...

Create successful ePaper yourself

Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.

GuaranteedEscortedToursSummer 20136 languages20 tours250+ departures


May-September 2013,13 days/12 nights:Dates:GRE05: 26.05-07.06.13GRE06: 02.06-14.06.13GRE07: 09.06-21.06.13GRE08: 16.06-28.06.13GRE09: 23.06-05.07.13GRE10: 30.06-12.07.13GRE11: 07.07-19.07.13GRE12: 14.07-26.07.13GRE13: 21.07-02.08.13GRE14: 28.07-09.08.13GRE15: 04.08-16.08.13GRE16: 11.08-23.08.13GRE17: 18.08-30.08.13GRE18: 25.08-06.09.13GRE19: 01.09-13.09.13GEE20: 08.09-20.09.13GEE21: 15.09-27.09.13Package prices per person:EUR 1295.00 (double occupancy)EUR 600.00 (s<strong>in</strong>gle supplement)Supplement for GRE05-GRE10EUR 100.00 (double occupancy)EUR 100.00 (s<strong>in</strong>gle supplement)Includ<strong>in</strong>g:• 12 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels• 12 x buffet breakfast• Welcome meet<strong>in</strong>g with champagne-cocktail orjuice• Personalised welcome package• Entrances to Old University <strong>in</strong> Vilnius, RundalePalace, St. Peter’s Church and Tower <strong>in</strong> Riga,medieval Great Guild Hall <strong>in</strong> Tall<strong>in</strong>n, Church-<strong>in</strong>theRock <strong>in</strong> Hels<strong>in</strong>ki, Vyborg Castle and Peterand-PaulFortress <strong>in</strong> St. Petersburg• Service of English and German speak<strong>in</strong>g tourescort on all tours• Service of Italian and Spanish speak<strong>in</strong>g tourescort on all tours• Service of Portuguese speak<strong>in</strong>g tour escort ontour GRE09, GRE12 and GRE15• Service of local French speak<strong>in</strong>g guides on tourGRE11,GRE13 and GRE17• Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st classm<strong>in</strong>ivans throughout the it<strong>in</strong>erary• Ferry ticket Tall<strong>in</strong>n-Hels<strong>in</strong>ki OW (2nd class)• Portage at hotelsVOX audio communication system <strong>in</strong> use throughoutthe F<strong>in</strong>nish and Russian parts of the tourBaltic RevelationDAY 1 (SUNDAY): ARRIVAL VILNIUSArrival <strong>in</strong> Vilnius, optional transfer to Hotel Radisson BluLietuva**** or similar, check-<strong>in</strong>, welcome meet<strong>in</strong>g.DAY 2 (MONDAY): VILNIUSVilnius is known for its more than 1.200 medievalbuild<strong>in</strong>gs and 48 churches. The morn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour<strong>in</strong>cludes a panoramic tour of the city and a walk<strong>in</strong>g tourof the Old Town with Vilnius Cathedral, Gedim<strong>in</strong>as Tower,Peter and Paul Church, St. Anne’s Church, Old Universityand the Gates of Dawn. The afternoon offers an optionalexcursion to Trakai, the medieval capital of Lithuania, withthe well preserved Trakai Castle, beautifully located onan island <strong>in</strong> Lake Galve. In the even<strong>in</strong>g enjoy an optionalfolklore d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Belmontas.DAY 3 (TUESDAY): VILNIUS-RIGAHead<strong>in</strong>g for Riga, the first stop is the Hills of Crosses, oneof the most holy sites of Catholic Lithuania. After cross<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>to Latvia we soon reach the magnificent Rundale Palace,the former summer residence of the Duke of Courland.Follow<strong>in</strong>g a guided tour of the palace we travel through theroll<strong>in</strong>g hills of Southern Latvia to reach Riga late afternoon,check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel Radisson Blu Latvija**** or similar.DAY 4 (WEDNESDAY): RIGABefore we get acqua<strong>in</strong>ted with Riga we have the possibilityof discover<strong>in</strong>g medieval Latvia. The optional tour for thismorn<strong>in</strong>g takes us to the stunn<strong>in</strong>g scenery of the GaujaNational Park and the town of Sigulda. We listen to themedieval Latvian legend of the Rose of Turaida and seethe ru<strong>in</strong>s of the Episcopal Castle and of the Castle ofthe Knights of the Sword before we return to Riga. Theafternoon offers an optional visit to the EthnographicalOpen Air Museum, a spacious exposition of 18th centurycountry life. The even<strong>in</strong>g offers an optional organ concertat the Dome Cathedral.DAY 5 (THURSDAY): RIGARiga, founded <strong>in</strong> 1201 by the German bishop Albert, isthe largest of the three Baltic capitals and boasts a realkaleidoscope of architectural styles. The walk<strong>in</strong>g tour ofthe Old Town <strong>in</strong>cludes Riga Castle, the Dome Cathedral,St. Peter’s Church, the Swedish Gate, the Three Brothers,the Large and Small Guilds and the Freedom Monument.The afternoon is reserved for an optional visit to Jurmala,the vibrant Latvian sea resort, famous for its woodenarchitecture and sandy beaches. In the even<strong>in</strong>g enjoyan optional Latvian d<strong>in</strong>ner at the stylish Restaurant LaBoheme.DAY 6 (FRIDAY): RIGA-TALLINNThe tour cont<strong>in</strong>ues along the coastal highway to theEstonian summer resort of Parnu. We do a short tour of theresort before we cont<strong>in</strong>ue through the North Estonian landof forests and arrive <strong>in</strong> Tall<strong>in</strong>n early afternoon, check-<strong>in</strong> atthe Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar.DAY 7 (SATURDAY): TALLINNTall<strong>in</strong>n is a charm<strong>in</strong>g blend of medieval tranquillity andmodern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place<strong>in</strong> the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenirmarkets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. The sightsee<strong>in</strong>gtour takes us around the old medieval city walls and <strong>in</strong>tothe Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church,Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall andGreat Guild Hall. In the afternoon an optional excursionis offered to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU, the awardw<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>gnew Estonian art museum, with its collections ofclassic and contemporary f<strong>in</strong>e art. The even<strong>in</strong>g offers anoptional medieval d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Peppersack.DAY 8 (SUNDAY): TALLINN-HELSINKIIn the morn<strong>in</strong>g we take the hydrofoil from Tall<strong>in</strong>nto Hels<strong>in</strong>ki and enjoy a refresh<strong>in</strong>g tour through theF<strong>in</strong>nish archipelago before arriv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> Hels<strong>in</strong>ki. Uponarrival we are transferred to our hotel and check-<strong>in</strong> atHotel Radisson Blu Royal**** or similar The balanceof the day is reserved for explor<strong>in</strong>g the F<strong>in</strong>nish capital<strong>in</strong>dividually.DAY 9 (MONDAY): HELSINKIHels<strong>in</strong>ki is truly located at the crossroads of Westernand Eastern culture and this is reflected everywhere<strong>in</strong> the green and lively F<strong>in</strong>nish capital. The sightsee<strong>in</strong>gtour takes us around the harbours, up centralMannerheim Street and by the Parliament Build<strong>in</strong>g,the F<strong>in</strong>landia Hall, and the Sibelius Monument and fora visit at the famous Church-<strong>in</strong> the-Rock. The afternoonoffers an optional excursion to Seurasaari Open-AirMuseum, an oasis <strong>in</strong> the midst of the city with cottages,farmsteads and manors from all around F<strong>in</strong>land.Optional:• Transfer airport to Hotel Radisson Blu Lietuva: EUR 35.00for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private m<strong>in</strong>ivan(4-7 persons)• 3-hour excursion to Trakai and visit to Trakai Castle: EUR40.00 pp• Folklore d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Belmontas: EUR 40.00 pp• 4-hour excursion to Gauja National Park: EUR 50.00 pp• 3-hour excursion to the Open Air Museum: EUR 40.00 pp• Organ concert at the Dome Cathedral: EUR 35.00 pp• 4-hour excursion to Jurmala: EUR 45.00 ppDAY 10 (TUESDAY): HELSINKI-ST. PETERSBURGToday we cont<strong>in</strong>ue eastbound to St. Petersburg. Shortlyafter cross<strong>in</strong>g the border <strong>in</strong>to Russia we arrive <strong>in</strong>Vyborg, where we take time for a short sightsee<strong>in</strong>gtour and a visit to Vyborg Castle. In the late afternoonwe arrive <strong>in</strong> St. Petersburg and check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel SokosVasilievsky**** or similar.DAY 11 (WEDNESDAY): ST. PETERSBURGSt. Petersburg is an amaz<strong>in</strong>g city. Its imperial palacesand museums enjoy worldwide fame, while the NevaRiver and the many canals have deservedly given thecity the title “The Venice of the North”. Dur<strong>in</strong>g themorn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour we get acqua<strong>in</strong>ted with allthe splendours of the city: the Peter-Paul Fortress, theW<strong>in</strong>ter Palace, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, the Church of theBleed<strong>in</strong>g Savior, the Nevsky Convent and much more.The afternoon offers an optional visit to Peterhof, anuncontested masterpiece of the time of Peter the Great,with the impressive Grand Palace, Grand Cascade andWater Avenue and its wonderful parks. In the even<strong>in</strong>g• Latvian d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant La Boheme: EUR 45.00 pp• 3-hour excursion to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU: EUR40.00 pp• Medieval d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Peppersack: EUR 40.00 pp• 3-hour excursion to the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum:EUR 45.00 pp• 4-hour excursion to Peterhof and visit to the Grand Palace:EUR 70.00 pp• Visit to folklore show at the Nikolaevsky Palace:enjoy an optional visit to the Nikolaevsky Palacewith an excit<strong>in</strong>g Russian folklore show and Russian„champagne” and snacks.DAY 12 (THURSDAY): ST. PETERSBURGThe morn<strong>in</strong>g is reserved for an optional excursionto Zarskoye Selo with the impressive Cather<strong>in</strong>e’sPalace and the Amber Room, which vanished dur<strong>in</strong>gWorld War II and was restored for St. Petersburg’s tricentennialcelebrations. In the afternoon, an optionalvisit to the world-famous Hermitage Art Museumis offered. In the even<strong>in</strong>g enjoy an optional Russiand<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Na Zdoroviye.DAY 13 (FRIDAY): ST. PETERSBURG DEPARTUREOptional transfer to the airport.• 4-hour excursion to Zarskoye Selo and visit to Cather<strong>in</strong>e’sPalace: EUR 70.00 pp• 3-hour visit to the Hermitage Art Museum: EUR 45.00 pp• Russian d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Na Zdrorovie: EUR 60.00 pp• Transfer Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky to airport: EUR 60.00 forprivate car (1-3 persons), EUR 80.00 for private m<strong>in</strong>ivan(4-7 persons)• Half board at hotels (12 x 3 course d<strong>in</strong>ner with coffee/tea): EUR 335.00 pp14 EUR 50.00 pp15


DAY 4 (FRIDAY): ST. PETERSBURG-MOSCOWThe early morn<strong>in</strong>g is reserved for an optional guided shopp<strong>in</strong>g tour to fashion andsouvenir boutiques on the Nevsky Prospect. Around noon we go to the MoscowRailway Station and board the Sapsan high-speed tra<strong>in</strong> bound for Moscow. The tra<strong>in</strong>ride takes us through endless Russian landscapes along the River Volga. In theeven<strong>in</strong>g we arrive to Moscow and check <strong>in</strong> at Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre**** orsimilar.June-August 2013,10 days/ 9 nights:Dates:GGR09: 25.06-04.07.13GGR11: 09.07-18.07.13GGR13: 23.07-01.08.13GGR14: 30.07-08.08.13GGR15: 06.08-15.08.13GGR16: 13.08-22.08.13Package prices per person:EUR 1095.00 (double occupancy)EUR 500.00 (s<strong>in</strong>gle supplement)Supplement for GGR09-GGR11EUR 100.00 (double occupancy)EUR 100.00 (s<strong>in</strong>gle supplement)Includ<strong>in</strong>g:• 9 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels• 9 x buffet breakfast• Welcome meet<strong>in</strong>g with champagne-cocktail orjuice• Personalised welcome package• Entrances to Peter-Paul Fortress <strong>in</strong> St. Petersburgand Moscow Metro, the Tr<strong>in</strong>ity Lavra of St.Sergius <strong>in</strong> Sergiev Posad and the Church of theIntercession on the Nerl <strong>in</strong> Bogolyubovo• Service of English and German speak<strong>in</strong>g tourescort on all tours• Service of Italian and Spanish speak<strong>in</strong>g tour escortson all tours• Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st classm<strong>in</strong>ivans throughout the it<strong>in</strong>erary• Sapsan high-speed tra<strong>in</strong> St. Petersburg-MoscowOW (2nd class)• Portage at hotels and railway stationsVOX audio communication system<strong>in</strong> use throughout the tourRussian Capitals and Golden R<strong>in</strong>gDAY 1 (TUESDAY): ARRIVAL ST. PETERSBURGArrival <strong>in</strong> St. Petersburg, optional transfer to Hotel SokosVasilievsky**** or similar, check-<strong>in</strong>, welcome meet<strong>in</strong>g.DAY 2 (WEDNESDAY): ST. PETERSBURGSt. Petersburg is an amaz<strong>in</strong>g city. Its imperial palaces andmuseums enjoy worldwide fame, while the Neva River andthe many canals have deservedly given the city the title“The Venice of the North”. Dur<strong>in</strong>g the morn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>gtour we get acqua<strong>in</strong>ted with all the splendours of the city:the Peter-Paul Fortress, the W<strong>in</strong>ter Palace, St. Isaac’sCathedral, the Church of the Bleed<strong>in</strong>g Savior, the NevskyConvent and much more. The afternoon offers an optionalvisit to Peterhof, an uncontested masterpiece of the timeof Peter the Great, with the impressive Grand Palace,Grand Cascade and Water Avenue and its wonderful parks.In the even<strong>in</strong>g enjoy an optional visit to the NikolaevskyPalace with an excit<strong>in</strong>g Russian folklore show and Russian„champagne” and snacks.DAY 3 (THURSDAY): ST .PETERSBURGThe morn<strong>in</strong>g is reserved for an optional excursion toZarskoye Selo with the impressive Cather<strong>in</strong>e’s Palaceand the Amber Room, which vanished dur<strong>in</strong>g World WarII and was restored for St. Petersburg’s tri-centennialcelebrations. In the afternoon, an optional visit to theworld-famous Hermitage Art Museum is offered. In theeven<strong>in</strong>g enjoy an optional Russian d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant NaZdoroviye.DAY 5 (SATURDAY): MOSCOWMoscow, The Mother of Russia, is a genu<strong>in</strong>e Russian city with the Kreml<strong>in</strong> and itsonion domed cathedrals. The dramatic changes over the last decade have made thecity to one of the most dynamic metropolis <strong>in</strong> the world. The morn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>gtour <strong>in</strong>cludes all the highlights of the vast city: the Red Square with Kreml<strong>in</strong>, theTheatre Square with Bolshoi Theatre, Sparrow Hills with Moscow University and avisit to the famous Moscow Metro. In the afternoon is offered an optional excursionto the Kreml<strong>in</strong> grounds with a visit to one of the cathedrals. The even<strong>in</strong>g offers anoptional excursion with a cruise on the Moscow River.DAY 6 (SUNDAY): MOSCOWThe day offers an optional excursion to Novodevichy Convent, a 16th century clusterof sparkl<strong>in</strong>g domes, one of the city’s most beautiful groups of build<strong>in</strong>gs and fullof history and treasures. The adjacent Novodevichy Cemetery is Moscow‘s mostprestigious rest<strong>in</strong>g place after the Kreml<strong>in</strong>. The balance of the day is reserved for anoptional excursion to the Tretyakov Gallery with its outstand<strong>in</strong>g collection of Frenchimpressionists. The even<strong>in</strong>g offers an optional visit to the Old Russian Circus.DAY 7 (MONDAY): MOSCOW-VLADIMIR-SUZDALToday we start our journey on the Golden R<strong>in</strong>g of ancient Russian towns. We firstgo to the town of Sergiev Posad to visit the Tr<strong>in</strong>ity Lavra of St. Sergius, the mostimportant Russian monastery and the spiritual heart of the Russian OrthodoxChurch. After that we drive through scenic Russian landscapes to Vladimir, oneof the ancient capitals of Russia. We see the Assumption Cathedral and the St.Demetrius Cathedral, both world heritage sites and the Golden Gate. In the lateafternoon we cont<strong>in</strong>ue to Suzdal and check-<strong>in</strong> at the Hotel Nikolaevsky Posad****or similar.DAY 8: (TUESDAY): SUZDALDat<strong>in</strong>g back almost a thousand year Suzdal is a small fairytale town with anunsurpassed collection of ancient Russian architecture. Dur<strong>in</strong>g the optional wholeday tour we discover all the treasures of Suzdal <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g the Kreml<strong>in</strong>, the NativityCathedral, the Museum of Wooden Architecture, St. Ethymius Monastery and theTransfiguration Cathedral.DAY 9: (WEDNESDAY): SUZDAL – BOGOLYBOVO-MOSCOWThis morn<strong>in</strong>g we drive to the nearby village of Bogolyubovo to admire the glarewhite light s<strong>in</strong>gle-domed Church of the Intercession on the Nerl. The church is builton a small hill, on a river meadow, <strong>in</strong> all its clarity and beauty it stands like a candle,grow<strong>in</strong>g out over the expanse of the meadow. We drive back to Moscow and <strong>in</strong> theafternoon we check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre**** or similar.DAY 10: (THURSDAY): MOSCOW DEPARTUREOptional transfer to the airport.Optional:• Transfer airport to Hotel Sokos Vasilievsky: EUR 60.00 forprivate car (1-3 persons), EUR 80.00 for private m<strong>in</strong>ivan(4-7 persons)• 4-hour excursion to Peterhof and visit to the GrandPalace: EUR 70.00 pp• Visit to folklore show at the Nikolaevsky Palace:EUR 50.00 pp• 4-hour excursion to Zarskoye Selo and visit to Cather<strong>in</strong>e’sPalace: EUR 70.00 pp• 3-hour visit to the Hermitage Art Museum: EUR 45.00 pp• Russian d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Na Zdrorovie: EUR 60.00 pp• 3-hour guided shopp<strong>in</strong>g tour: EUR 35.00 pp• 3-hour excursion to Kreml<strong>in</strong> and visit to a cathedral:EUR 50.00 pp• 4-hour excursion to Novodevichy Convent: EUR 55.00 pp• 3-hour excursion and cruise on the Moscow River:EUR 45.00 pp• Visit to Old Russian Circus: EUR 70.00 pp• 8-hours tour of Suzdal and visit to Church of the Nativity,Museum of Wooden Architecture, St. Ethymius Monasteryand the Transfiguration Cathedral: EUR 80.00 pp• Transfer Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre to airport:EUR 80.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 100.00 forprivate m<strong>in</strong>ivan (4-7 persons)• Half board (9 x 3 course d<strong>in</strong>ner with coffee/tea):EUR 260.00 pp• 3-hour visit to the Tretyakov Gallery: EUR 45.00 pp20 21


Hels<strong>in</strong>ki and enjoy a refresh<strong>in</strong>g tour through the F<strong>in</strong>nish archipelago before arriv<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong> Hels<strong>in</strong>ki. Upon arrival we are transferred to our hotel and check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel RadissonBlu Royal**** or similar The balance of the day is reserved for explor<strong>in</strong>g the F<strong>in</strong>nishcapital <strong>in</strong>dividually.May-September 2013,16 days/15 nights:Dates:GBX05: 26.05-10.06.13GBX06: 02.06-17.06.13GBX07: 09.06-24.06.13GBX08: 16.06-01.07.13GBX09: 23.06-08.07.13GBX10: 30.06-15.07.13GBX11: 07.07-22.07.13GBX12: 14.07-29.07.13GBX13: 21.07-05.08.13GBX14: 28.07-12.08.13GBX15: 04.08-19.08.13GBX16: 11.08-26.08.13GBX17: 18.08-02.09.13GBX18: 25.08-09.09.13GBX19: 01.09-16.09.13GBX20: 08.09-23.09.13GBX21: 15.09-30.09.13Package prices per person:EUR 1695.00 (double occupancy)EUR 750.00 (s<strong>in</strong>gle supplement)Supplement for GBX05-GBX10EUR 100.00 (double occupancy)EUR 100.00 (s<strong>in</strong>gle supplement)Includ<strong>in</strong>g:• 15 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels• 15 x buffet breakfast• Welcome meet<strong>in</strong>g with champagne-cocktail orjuice• Personalised welcome package• Entrances to Old University <strong>in</strong> Vilnius, RundalePalace, St. Peter’s Church and Tower <strong>in</strong> Riga,medieval Great Guild Hall <strong>in</strong> Tall<strong>in</strong>n, Church-<strong>in</strong>theRock <strong>in</strong> Hels<strong>in</strong>ki, Vyborg Castle, Peter-Paul-Fortress <strong>in</strong> St. Petersburg and Moscow Metro• Service of English and German speak<strong>in</strong>g tour escorton all tours• Service of Italian and Spanish speak<strong>in</strong>g tour escorton all tours• Service of Portuguese speak<strong>in</strong>g tour escort ontour GBX09, GBX12 and GBX15• Service of local French speak<strong>in</strong>g guides on tourGBX11,GBX13 and GBX17• Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st classm<strong>in</strong>ivans throughout the it<strong>in</strong>erary• Ferry Tall<strong>in</strong>n-Hels<strong>in</strong>ki OW• Sapsan high-speed tra<strong>in</strong> St. Petersburg-MoscowOW (2nd class)• Portage at hotels and railway stationsBaltic and Russian ExplorerDAY 1 (SUNDAY): ARRIVAL VILNIUSArrival <strong>in</strong> Vilnius, optional transfer to Hotel Radisson BluLietuva**** or similar, check-<strong>in</strong>, welcome meet<strong>in</strong>g.DAY 2 (MONDAY): VILNIUSVilnius is known for its more than 1.200 medievalbuild<strong>in</strong>gs and 48 churches. The morn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour<strong>in</strong>cludes a panoramic tour of the city and a walk<strong>in</strong>g tourof the Old Town with Vilnius Cathedral, Gedim<strong>in</strong>as Tower,Peter and Paul Church, St. Anne’s Church, Old Universityand the Gates of Dawn. The afternoon offers an optionalexcursion to Trakai, the medieval capital of Lithuania, withthe well preserved Trakai Castle, beautifully located onan island <strong>in</strong> Lake Galve. In the even<strong>in</strong>g enjoy an optionalfolklore d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Belmontas.DAY 3 (TUESDAY): VILNIUS-RIGAHead<strong>in</strong>g for Riga, the first stop is the Hills of Crosses, oneof the most holy sites of Catholic Lithuania. After cross<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>to Latvia we soon reach the magnificent Rundale Palace,the former summer residence of the Duke of Courland.Follow<strong>in</strong>g a guided tour of the palace we travel through theroll<strong>in</strong>g hills of Southern Latvia to reach Riga late afternoon,check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel Radisson Blu Latvija**** or similar.DAY 4 (WEDNESDAY): RIGABefore we get acqua<strong>in</strong>ted with Riga we have the possibilityof discover<strong>in</strong>g medieval Latvia. The optional tour for thismorn<strong>in</strong>g takes us to the stunn<strong>in</strong>g scenery of the GaujaNational Park and the town of Sigulda. We listen to themedieval Latvian legend of the Rose of Turaida and seethe ru<strong>in</strong>s of the Episcopal Castle and of the Castle ofthe Knights of the Sword before we return to Riga. Theafternoon offers an optional visit to the EthnographicalOpen Air Museum, a spacious exposition of 18th centurycountry life. The even<strong>in</strong>g offers an optional organ concertat the Dome Cathedral.DAY 5 (THURSDAY): RIGARiga, founded <strong>in</strong> 1201 by the German bishop Albert, isthe largest of the three Baltic capitals and boasts a realkaleidoscope of architectural styles. The walk<strong>in</strong>g tour ofthe Old Town <strong>in</strong>cludes Riga Castle, the Dome Cathedral,St. Peter’s Church, the Swedish Gate, the Three Brothers,the Large and Small Guilds and the Freedom Monument.The afternoon is reserved for an optional visit to Jurmala,the vibrant Latvian sea resort, famous for its woodenarchitecture and sandy beaches. In the even<strong>in</strong>g enjoyan optional Latvian d<strong>in</strong>ner at the stylish Restaurant LaBoheme.DAY 6 (FRIDAY): RIGA-TALLINNThe tour cont<strong>in</strong>ues along the coastal highway to theEstonian summer resort of Parnu. We do a short tour ofthe resort before we cont<strong>in</strong>ue through the North Estonianland of forests and arrive <strong>in</strong> Tall<strong>in</strong>n early afternoon, check<strong>in</strong>at the Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar.DAY 7 (SATURDAY): TALLINNTall<strong>in</strong>n is a charm<strong>in</strong>g blend of medieval tranquillity andmodern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place<strong>in</strong> the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenirmarkets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. The sightsee<strong>in</strong>gtour takes us around the old medieval city walls and <strong>in</strong>tothe Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church,Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall andGreat Guild Hall. In the afternoon an optional excursionis offered to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU, the awardw<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>gnew Estonian art museum, with its collections ofclassic and contemporary f<strong>in</strong>e art. The even<strong>in</strong>g offers anoptional medieval d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Peppersack.DAY 8 (SUNDAY): TALLINN-HELSINKIIn the morn<strong>in</strong>g we take the hydrofoil from Tall<strong>in</strong>n toDAY 9 (MONDAY): HELSINKIHels<strong>in</strong>ki is truly located at the crossroads of Western and Eastern culture and this isreflected everywhere <strong>in</strong> the green and lively F<strong>in</strong>nish capital. The sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour takesus around the harbours, up central Mannerheim Street and by the Parliament Build<strong>in</strong>g,the F<strong>in</strong>landia Hall, and the Sibelius Monument and for a visit at the famous Church-<strong>in</strong>the-Rock. The afternoon offers an optional excursion to Seurasaari Open-Air Museum,an oasis <strong>in</strong> the midst of the city with cottages, farmsteads and manors from all aroundF<strong>in</strong>land.DAY 10 (TUESDAY): HELSINKI-ST. PETERSBURGToday we cont<strong>in</strong>ue eastbound to St. Petersburg. Shortly after cross<strong>in</strong>g the border <strong>in</strong>toRussia we arrive <strong>in</strong> Vyborg, where we take time for a short sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour and a visitto Vyborg Castle. In the late afternoon we arrive <strong>in</strong> St. Petersburg and check-<strong>in</strong> at HotelSokos Vasilievsky**** or similar.DAY 11 (WEDNESDAY): ST. PETERSBURGSt. Petersburg is an amaz<strong>in</strong>g city. Its imperial palaces and museums enjoy worldwidefame, while the Neva River and the many canals have deservedly given the city thetitle “The Venice of the North”. Dur<strong>in</strong>g the morn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour we get acqua<strong>in</strong>tedwith all the splendours of the city: the Peter-Paul Fortress, the W<strong>in</strong>ter Palace, St. Isaac’sCathedral, the Church of the Bleed<strong>in</strong>g Savior, the Nevsky Convent and much more. Theafternoon offers an optional visit to Peterhof, an uncontested masterpiece of the time ofPeter the Great, with the impressive Grand Palace, Grand Cascade and Water Avenueand its wonderful parks. In the even<strong>in</strong>g enjoy an optional visit to the Nikolaevsky Palacewith an excit<strong>in</strong>g Russian folklore show and Russian „champagne” and snacks.DAY 12 (THURSDAY): ST. PETERSBURGThe morn<strong>in</strong>g is reserved for an optional excursion to Zarskoye Selo with the impressiveCather<strong>in</strong>e’s Palace and the Amber Room, which vanished dur<strong>in</strong>g World War II and wasrestored for St. Petersburg’s tri-centennial celebrations. In the afternoon, an optionalvisit to the world-famous Hermitage Art Museum is offered. In the even<strong>in</strong>g enjoy anoptional Russian d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Na Zdoroviye.DAY 13 (FRIDAY): ST. PETERSBURG-MOSCOWThe early morn<strong>in</strong>g is reserved for an optional guided shopp<strong>in</strong>g tour to fashion andsouvenir boutiques on the Nevsky Prospect. Around noon we go to the Moscow RailwayStation and board the Sapsan high-speed tra<strong>in</strong> bound for Moscow. The tra<strong>in</strong> ride takesus through endless Russian landscapes along the River Volga. In the late afternoon wearrive to Moscow and check <strong>in</strong> at Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre**** or similar.DAY 14 (SATURDAY): MOSCOWMoscow, The Mother of Russia, is a genu<strong>in</strong>e Russian city with the Kreml<strong>in</strong> and its oniondomed cathedrals. The dramatic changes over the last decade have made the city toOptional:• Transfer airport to Hotel Radisson Blu Lietuva: EUR 35.00for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for private m<strong>in</strong>ivan(4-7 persons)• 3-hour excursion to Trakai and visit to Trakai Castle:EUR 40.00 pp• Folklore d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Belmontas: EUR 40.00 pp• 4-hour excursion to Gauja National Park: EUR 50.00 pp• 3-hour excursion to the Open Air Museum: EUR 40.00 pp• Organ concert at the Dome Cathedral: EUR 35.00 pp• 4-hour excursion to Jurmala: EUR 45.00 pp• Latvian d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant La Boheme: EUR 45.00 pp• 3-hour excursion to Kadriorg Park and visit to KUMU:EUR 40.00 pp• Medieval d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Peppersack: EUR 40.00 pp• 3-hour excursion to the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum:EUR 45.00 pp• 4-hour excursion to Peterhof and visit to the GrandPalace: EUR 70.00 pp• Visit to folklore show at the Nikolaevsky Palace:EUR 50.00 pp• 4-hour excursion to Zarskoye Selo and visit to Cather<strong>in</strong>e’sPalace: EUR 70.00 pp• 3-hour visit to the Hermitage Art Museum: EUR 45.00 pp• Russian d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Na Zdrorovie: EUR 60.00 pp• 3-hour guided shopp<strong>in</strong>g tour: EUR 35.00 pp• 3-hour excursion to Kreml<strong>in</strong> and visit to a cathedral:EUR 50.00 ppone of the most dynamic metropolis <strong>in</strong> the world. The morn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour<strong>in</strong>cludes all the highlights of the vast city: the Red Square with Kreml<strong>in</strong>, theTheatre Square with Bolshoi Theatre, Sparrow Hills with Moscow Universityand a visit to the famous Moscow Metro. In the afternoon is offered an optionalexcursion to the Kreml<strong>in</strong> grounds with a visit to one of the cathedrals. Theeven<strong>in</strong>g offers an optional excursion with a cruise on the Moscow River.DAY 15 (SUNDAY): MOSCOWThe morn<strong>in</strong>g offers an optional excursion to Novidevichy Convent, a 16thcentury cluster of sparkl<strong>in</strong>g domes, one of the city’s most beautiful groups ofbuild<strong>in</strong>gs and full of history and treasures. The adjacent Novodevichy Cemeteryis Moscow‘s most prestigious rest<strong>in</strong>g place after the Kreml<strong>in</strong>. The balance ofthe day is reserved for an optional excursion to the Tretyakov Gallery with itsoutstand<strong>in</strong>g collection of French impressionists. The even<strong>in</strong>g offers an optionalvisit to the Old Russian Circus.DAY 16 (MONDAY): MOSCOW DEPARTUREOptional transfer to the airport.• 4-hour excursion to Novodevich Convent: EUR 55.00 pp• 3-hour excursion and cruise on the Moscow River:EUR 45.00 pp• 3-hour visit to the Tretyakov Gallery: EUR 45.00 pp• Visit to Old Russian Circus: EUR 70.00 pp• Transfer Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre to airport:EUR 80.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 100.00 forprivate m<strong>in</strong>ivan (4-7 persons)• Half board at hotels (15 x 3 course d<strong>in</strong>ner with coffee/tea): EUR 425.00 ppVOX audio communication system <strong>in</strong> use throughoutthe F<strong>in</strong>nish and Russian parts of the tour22 23


June-September 2013,19 days/18 nights:Dates:GSR06: 06.06-24.06.13GSR07: 13.06-01.07.13GSR08: 20.06-08.07.13GSR10: 04.07-22.07.13GSR11: 11.07-29.08.13GSR12: 18.07-05.08.13GSR14: 01.08-19.08.13GSR15: 08.08-26.08.13GSR16: 15.08-02.09.13GSR18: 29.08-16.09.13Package prices per person:EUR 2795.00 (double occupancy)EUR 1195.00 (s<strong>in</strong>gle supplement)Supplement for GSR06-GSR08EUR 100.00 (double occupancy)EUR 100.00 (s<strong>in</strong>gle supplement)Includ<strong>in</strong>g:• 16 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels• 1 overnight at ferry Copenhagen-Oslo OW, outside-cab<strong>in</strong>s• 1 overnight at ferry Stockholm-Hels<strong>in</strong>ki OW,promenade cab<strong>in</strong>s• 18 x buffet breakfast• 4 x d<strong>in</strong>ner (3 x 3-course hotel d<strong>in</strong>ner and 1 xbuffet d<strong>in</strong>ner on board the ferry)• Welcome meet<strong>in</strong>g• Entrances Vyborg Castle, Peter and Paul Fortressand Moscow Metro• Service of English speak<strong>in</strong>g tour escorts on alltours• Service of Spanish speak<strong>in</strong>g tour escorts on alltours• Service of 1st class motor coaches and 1st classm<strong>in</strong>ivans throughout the it<strong>in</strong>erary• Sapsan high-speed tra<strong>in</strong> St. Petersburg-MoscowOW (2nd class)• Portage at hotels, ferry term<strong>in</strong>als and railwaystationsVOX audio communication system <strong>in</strong> use throughoutthe F<strong>in</strong>nish and Russian parts of the tourScand<strong>in</strong>avian and Russian TreasuresDAY 1 (THURSDAY): ARRIVAL COPENHAGENArrival <strong>in</strong> Copenhagen, optional transfer to Hotel ScandicCopenhagen**** or similar, check-<strong>in</strong>, welcome meet<strong>in</strong>g.DAY 2 (FRIDAY): COPENHAGEN-OSLOCopenhagen is Scand<strong>in</strong>avia’s largest and most lively cityand one of Europe’s most romantic capitals with its oldcastles and churches and charm<strong>in</strong>g squares and harbours.The morn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour will acqua<strong>in</strong>t us with all thecity’s treasures: the Little Mermaid guard<strong>in</strong>g the port, theRoyal Castle, Nyhavn with its restaurants and small boatsand the City Hall Square. In the afternoon we embark onthe DFDS Seaways overnight ferry bound for Oslo. Theferry offers a wide choice of restaurants, bars, shops andmuch more.DAY 3 (SATURDAY): OSLO-GEILOFounded <strong>in</strong> 1048 Oslo is Scand<strong>in</strong>avia’s oldest capitaland today it is a very pleasant and casual city with an<strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>g jumble of historical and modern architecture.Upon arrival <strong>in</strong> Oslo we start the morn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>gtour. We enjoy a walk around the Frogner Park decoratedwith the unique sculptures of Gustav Vigeland. We passby the City Hall and the ma<strong>in</strong> street, Karl Johan, lead<strong>in</strong>gto the Royal Palace. In the early afternoon we cont<strong>in</strong>ue ourjourney to the beautiful Hall<strong>in</strong>gdal Valley. We visit Gol andarrive <strong>in</strong> Geilo, a small town surrounded by mounta<strong>in</strong>s.Check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel Bardola**** or similar. D<strong>in</strong>ner at hotel.DAY 4 (SUNDAY): GEILO-BERGENToday we enter the breathtak<strong>in</strong>g Norwegian nature. Wecont<strong>in</strong>ue through the Hall<strong>in</strong>gdal Valley, known for itsfolkloric traditions. We cross the Hardanger mounta<strong>in</strong>plateau and on the descent towards the fjord we pass thefamous Vor<strong>in</strong>gsfossen Waterfall. We cross the HardangerFjord by ferry and cont<strong>in</strong>ue along its shores to Bergen.Situated on a pen<strong>in</strong>sula surrounded by 7 mounta<strong>in</strong>s thehistory of Bergen is closely connected with the sea andthis is very noticeable <strong>in</strong> the city, especially at the city’spicturesque waterfront. The afternoon sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour<strong>in</strong>troduces us to this remarkable Hanseatic city with theBryggen area of old wooden houses, the traditional FishMarket and the city centre with the St. Mary’s Church andHaakon’s Hall. We check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel Scandic Neptun****or similar.DAY 5 (MONDAY): BERGEN-STALHEIMThe morn<strong>in</strong>g is at leisure to explore more of the stunn<strong>in</strong>gNorwegian fjord capital. In the early afternoon wetravel to the historical town of Voss, which has a scenicbackground of snow clad mounta<strong>in</strong>s. After a break here wecont<strong>in</strong>ue towards the Naroy Valley and Stalheim, offer<strong>in</strong>g astunn<strong>in</strong>g view down the Stalheim Gorge, Check-<strong>in</strong> at HotelStalheim**** or similar. D<strong>in</strong>ner at hotel.DAY 6 (TUESDAY): STALHEIM-FAGERNESToday we cont<strong>in</strong>ue through the fjord region with itsformidable water-drowned glacial valleys, flankedby impossible rugged terra<strong>in</strong> to Gudvangen wherewe cross the Naroyfjord and reach the village ofFlam. In the afternoon the journey cont<strong>in</strong>ues alongthe Aurlandfjord. We do a photo stop at the famousBorgund Stave Church before we cont<strong>in</strong>ue to Fagernes.Check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel Quality Fagernes**** or similar.D<strong>in</strong>ner at hotel.DAY 7 (WEDNESDAY): FAGERNES-OSLOAfter breakfast we leave the majestic Norwegian fjordsbeh<strong>in</strong>d us and travel back towards Oslo, which we reachearly <strong>in</strong> the afternoon. Check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel Radisson BluScand<strong>in</strong>avia**** or similar. The balance of the day isspent for explor<strong>in</strong>g more of the Vik<strong>in</strong>g capital.DAY 8 (THURSDAY): OSLO-STOCKHOLMToday we head for Stockholm, pass<strong>in</strong>g throughNorwegian forests. We cross the border and enter thecounty of Varmland <strong>in</strong> Sweden. Throughout the balanceof the day we drive through typical Swedish landscapeswith fertile farmland, blue lakes and thick forests,which evoke an atmosphere of <strong>in</strong>trigu<strong>in</strong>g fairytales. Inthe afternoon we arrive at Stockholm. Check-<strong>in</strong> at HotelScandic Grand Central**** or similar.DAY 9 (FRIDAY): STOCKHOLMStockholm – the beauty on the water – is undoubtedlyone of the most beautiful capitals <strong>in</strong> the world, built on14 islands and protected from the sea by Skargarden,the Stockholm archipelago. The morn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>gtour takes us to the Old Town with the Royal Palace,Stockholm Cathedral and the city centre with itsfamous City Hall. The afternoon is free for <strong>in</strong>dividualvisits.DAY 10 (SATURDAY): STOCKHOLM-HELSINKIThe morn<strong>in</strong>g is free to explore more of Stockholm<strong>in</strong>dividually. Mid-afternoon we leave for the pierto embark on the Tall<strong>in</strong>k Silja L<strong>in</strong>e overnight ferrybound for Hels<strong>in</strong>ki. While we travel slowly down thearchipelago past numerous islands and islets we enjoya sumptuous d<strong>in</strong>ner on board the ship. And afterwardsthere is a wide choice of enterta<strong>in</strong>ment with bars,shops, cas<strong>in</strong>o and much more.DAY 11 (SUNDAY): HELSINKIHels<strong>in</strong>ki is truly located at the crossroads of Westernand Eastern culture and this is reflected everywhere<strong>in</strong> the green and lively F<strong>in</strong>nish capital. Directly afterdisembarkation we start a sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour, whichtakes us around the harbours, up central MannerheimStreet and by the Parliament Build<strong>in</strong>g, the F<strong>in</strong>landiaHall, and the Sibelius Monument and the famousChurch-<strong>in</strong> the-Rock. At the end of the tour we check-<strong>in</strong>at Hotel Radisson Blu Royal**** or similar.DAY 12 (MONDAY): HELSINKIThe morn<strong>in</strong>g is reserved for explor<strong>in</strong>g more of theF<strong>in</strong>ish capital <strong>in</strong>dividually. The afternoon offers anoptional excursion to Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, anoasis <strong>in</strong> the midst of the city with cottages, farmsteadsand manors from all around F<strong>in</strong>land.DAY 13 (TUESDAY): HELSINKI-ST. PETERSBURGToday we cont<strong>in</strong>ue eastbound to St. Petersburg. Shortlyafter cross<strong>in</strong>g the border <strong>in</strong>to Russia we arrive <strong>in</strong>Vyborg, where we take time for a short sightsee<strong>in</strong>gtour and a visit to Vyborg Castle. In the late afternoonwe arrive <strong>in</strong> St. Petersburg and check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel SokosVasilievsky**** or similar.DAY 14 (WEDNESDAY): ST. PETERSBURGSt. Petersburg is an amaz<strong>in</strong>g city. Its imperial palacesand museums enjoy worldwide fame, while the NevaRiver and the many canals have deservedly given thecity the title “The Venice of the North”. Dur<strong>in</strong>g themorn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour we get acqua<strong>in</strong>ted with allthe splendours of the city: the Peter-Paul Fortress, theW<strong>in</strong>ter Palace, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, the Church of theBleed<strong>in</strong>g Savior, the Nevsky Convent and much more.The afternoon offers an optional visit to Peterhof, anuncontested masterpiece of the time of Peter the Great,with the impressive Grand Palace, Grand Cascade andWater Avenue and its wonderful parks. In the even<strong>in</strong>genjoy an optional visit to the Nikolaevsky Palacewith an excit<strong>in</strong>g Russian folklore show and Russian„champagne” and snacks.DAY 15 (THURSDAY): ST. PETERSBURGThe morn<strong>in</strong>g is reserved for an optional excursionto Zarskoye Selo with the impressive Cather<strong>in</strong>e’sPalace and the Amber Room, which vanished dur<strong>in</strong>gWorld War II and was restored for St. Petersburg’s tricentennialcelebrations. In the afternoon, an optionalvisit to the world-famous Hermitage Art Museumis offered. In the even<strong>in</strong>g enjoy an optional Russiand<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Na Zdoroviye.DAY 16 (FRIDAY): ST. PETERSBURG-MOSCOWThe early morn<strong>in</strong>g is reserved for an optional guidedshopp<strong>in</strong>g tour to fashion and souvenir boutiques on theNevsky Prospect. Around noon we go to the MoscowRailway Station and board the Sapsan high-speed tra<strong>in</strong>bound for Moscow. The tra<strong>in</strong> ride takes us throughendless Russian landscapes along the River Volga. Inthe late afternoon we arrive to Moscow and check <strong>in</strong> atHotel Novotel Moscow Centre**** or similar.DAY 17 (SATURDAY): MOSCOWMoscow, The Mother of Russia, is a genu<strong>in</strong>e Russiancity with the Kreml<strong>in</strong> and its onion domed cathedrals.The dramatic changes over the last decade have madeOptional:• Transfer airport to Hotel Scandic Copenhagen:EUR 135.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 155.00 forprivate car/m<strong>in</strong>ivan (4-7 persons)• Guests will receive details from the tour escort aboutoptional toursthe city to one of the most dynamic metropolis <strong>in</strong>the world. The morn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour <strong>in</strong>cludes allthe highlights of the vast city: the Red Square withKreml<strong>in</strong>, the Theatre Square with Bolshoi Theatre,Sparrow Hills with Moscow University and a visit tothe famous Moscow Metro. In the afternoon is offeredan optional excursion to the Kreml<strong>in</strong> grounds with avisit to one of the cathedrals. The even<strong>in</strong>g offers anoptional excursion with a cruise on the Moscow River.DAY 18 (SUNDAY): MOSCOWThe day offers an optional excursion to NovidevichyConvent, a 16th century cluster of sparkl<strong>in</strong>g domes,one of the city’s most beautiful groups of build<strong>in</strong>gsand full of history and treasures. The adjacentNovodevichy Cemetery is Moscow‘s most prestigiousrest<strong>in</strong>g place after the Kreml<strong>in</strong>. The balance of the dayis reserved for an optional excursion to the TretyakovGallery with its outstand<strong>in</strong>g collection of Frenchimpressionists. The even<strong>in</strong>g offers an optional visit tothe Old Russian Circus.DAY 19 (MONDAY): MOSCOW DEPARTUREOptional transfer to the airport.• Transfer Hotel Novotel Moscow Centre to airport:EUR 80.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 100.00 forprivate m<strong>in</strong>ivan (4-7 persons)The most scenic, comprehensive and complete tour of24Scand<strong>in</strong>avia, F<strong>in</strong>land and Russia on the market25


June – September 2013,25 days/24 nights:Dates:GMS06: 07.06-01.07.13GMS08: 21.06-15.07.13GMS10: 05.07-29.07.13GMS12: 19.07-12.08.13GMS13: 26.07-19.08.13GMS14: 02.08-26.08.13GMS16: 09.08-02.09.13GMS17: 16.08-09.09.13.Package prices per person:EUR 3195.00 (double occupancy)EUR 1250.00 (s<strong>in</strong>gle supplement)Supplement for GMS06-GMS08EUR 100.00 (double occupancy)EUR 100.00 (s<strong>in</strong>gle supplement)Includ<strong>in</strong>g:• 22 overnights at centrally located 4 star hotels• 1 overnight at ferry Copenhagen-Oslo OW, <strong>in</strong>side-cab<strong>in</strong>s• 1 overnight at ferry Stockholm-Riga OW, <strong>in</strong>sidecab<strong>in</strong>s• 24 x buffet breakfast• 5 x d<strong>in</strong>ners (1 x 3-course hotel d<strong>in</strong>ner, 2 x buffetd<strong>in</strong>ner on board the ferries, 1 x 3 course Latviand<strong>in</strong>ner and 1 x 3 course Russian d<strong>in</strong>ner)• Entrances to St. Peter’s Church and Towers <strong>in</strong>Riga and medieval Great Guild Hall <strong>in</strong> Tall<strong>in</strong>n,Church-<strong>in</strong>-the-Rock <strong>in</strong> Hels<strong>in</strong>ki, Vyborg Castle,Peter-Paul Fortress <strong>in</strong> St. Petersburg and MoscowMetro• Service of English speak<strong>in</strong>g tour escorts on alltours• Service of Spanish speak<strong>in</strong>g tour escorts on alltours• Service of 1st class motor coaches and/or 1stclass m<strong>in</strong>ivans throughout the it<strong>in</strong>erary• Ferry Tall<strong>in</strong>n-Hels<strong>in</strong>ki OW• Sapsan high-speed tra<strong>in</strong> St. Petersburg-MoscowOW (2nd class)• Portage at hotels and railway stationsMagic of Scand<strong>in</strong>avia,Baltic Countries and RussiaDAY 1 (FRIDAY): ARRIVAL COPENHAGENArrival <strong>in</strong> Copenhagen, optional transfer to Hotel ScandicCopenhagen**** or similar, check-<strong>in</strong>, welcome meet<strong>in</strong>g.DAY 2 (SATURDAY): COPENHAGENCopenhagen is Scand<strong>in</strong>avia’s largest and most lively cityand one of Europe’s most romantic capitals with its oldcastles and churches and charm<strong>in</strong>g squares and harbors.The morn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour acqua<strong>in</strong>ts us with all thecity’s treasures: the Little Mermaid guard<strong>in</strong>g the port, theRoyal Castle, Nyhavn with its restaurants and small boatsand the City Hall Square. The afternoon is free for explor<strong>in</strong>gmore of the charm<strong>in</strong>g Danish capital <strong>in</strong>dividually.DAY 3 (SUNDAY): COPENHAGEN-OSLOAfter a leisurely day <strong>in</strong> Copenhagen we embark <strong>in</strong> theafternoon on the DFDS Seaways overnight ferry boundfor Oslo. The ferry offers a wide choice of restaurants,bars, shops and much more. In the even<strong>in</strong>g we enjoy asumptuous d<strong>in</strong>ner on board while cruis<strong>in</strong>g up the Kattegat.DAY 4 (MONDAY): OSLOFounded <strong>in</strong> 1048 Oslo is Scand<strong>in</strong>avia’s oldest capitaland today it is a very pleasant and casual city with an<strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>g jumble of historical and modern architecture.Upon arrival <strong>in</strong> Oslo we start the morn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour.We enjoy a walk around the Frogner Park decorated withthe unique sculptures of Gustav Vigeland and. we pass bythe City Hall and the ma<strong>in</strong> street, Karl Johan, lead<strong>in</strong>g tothe Royal Palace. Check <strong>in</strong> at Hotel Thon Stefan**** orsimilar. The balance of the day is free for explor<strong>in</strong>g moreof the Vik<strong>in</strong>g capital.DAY 5 (TUESDAY): OSLO-BERGENIn the morn<strong>in</strong>g we cont<strong>in</strong>ue our journey to the beautifulHall<strong>in</strong>gdal Valley. We arrive to Geilo, a small townsurrounded by mounta<strong>in</strong>s, and cont<strong>in</strong>ue <strong>in</strong>to the mounta<strong>in</strong>plateau of Hardanger. En route we pass the famous Waterfallof Vor<strong>in</strong>gsfossen and after cross<strong>in</strong>g Hardangerjord byferry we arrive to Bergen <strong>in</strong> the afternoon. Check-<strong>in</strong> atHotel Bergen Brygge**** or similar.DAY 6 (WEDNESDAY): BERGENSituated on a pen<strong>in</strong>sula surrounded by 7 mounta<strong>in</strong>s thehistory of Bergen is closely connected with the sea andthis is very noticeable <strong>in</strong> the city, especially at the city’spicturesque waterfront. The afternoon sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour<strong>in</strong>troduces us to this remarkable Hanseatic city with theBryggen area of old wooden houses, the traditional FishMarket and the city centre with the St. Mary’s Church andHaakon’s Hall. In the afternoon we are explor<strong>in</strong>g more of thestunn<strong>in</strong>g Norwegian fjord capital on our own.DAY 7 (THURSDAY): BERGEN-SOGNEFJORD-GEILOToday we cont<strong>in</strong>ue through the fjord region with its formidablewater-drowned glacial valleys, flanked by impossible ruggedterra<strong>in</strong> to Stalheim, offer<strong>in</strong>g a stunn<strong>in</strong>g view down theStalheim Gorge. From here we cruise over the Sognefjord, thelargest fjord <strong>in</strong> Norway. In the afternoon we arrive to back toGeilo, check <strong>in</strong> at Hotel Bardola **** or similar. D<strong>in</strong>ner atthe hotel.DAY 8 (FRIDAY): GEILO-KARLSTADAfter breakfast we leave Geilo and cont<strong>in</strong>ue through theValdres area, where we enter the country of Varmland <strong>in</strong>Sweden. Throughout the balance of the day we drive throughtypical Swedish landscapes with fertile farmland, blue lakesand thick forests, which evoke an atmosphere of <strong>in</strong>trigu<strong>in</strong>gfairytales. In the afternoon, we arrive to Karlstad and check<strong>in</strong> at Hotel Clarion Plaza**** or similar.DAY 9 (SATURDAY): KARLSTAD-STOCKHOLMOur tour cont<strong>in</strong>ues with a scenic drive towards Stockholm,which we reach <strong>in</strong> the early afternoon. Stockholm – thebeauty on the water – is undoubtedly one of the most beautifulcapitals <strong>in</strong> the world, built on 14 islands and protected fromthe sea by Skargarden, the Stockholm archipelago. Theafternoon sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour takes us to the Old Town with theRoyal Palace, Stockholm Cathedral and the city centre withits famous City Hall. Check <strong>in</strong> at Hotel First Amaranten****or similar.DAY 10 (SUNDAY): STOCKHOLMThe day is free to explore more of beautiful Swedish capital<strong>in</strong>dividually, perhaps visit the City Hall, the Wasa Museum ora take a tour to Uppsala and Sigtuna.DAY 11 (MONDAY): STOCKHOLM-RIGAAfter morn<strong>in</strong>g at own disposal <strong>in</strong> Stockholm we are transferredto the harbor to embark the Tall<strong>in</strong>k Silja L<strong>in</strong>e overnight ferrybound for Riga. The ferry offers a lot of facilities <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>grestaurants, cafes, night club and much more. While we travelslowly down the archipelago past numerous islands and isletswe enjoy a Scand<strong>in</strong>avian buffet d<strong>in</strong>ner on board the ship.DAY 12 (TUESDAY): RIGAIn the morn<strong>in</strong>g, upon arrival to Riga harbor we aretransferred to our hotel, Check <strong>in</strong> at Hotel Radisson BluLatvija**** or similar. The afternoon is best spent forgett<strong>in</strong>g the first impressions of the Latvian capital.DAY 13 (WEDNESDAY): RIGABefore we get acqua<strong>in</strong>ted with Riga we have thepossibility of discover<strong>in</strong>g medieval Latvia. The optionaltour for this morn<strong>in</strong>g takes us to the stunn<strong>in</strong>g sceneryof the Gauja National Park and the town of Sigulda.We listen to the medieval Latvian legend of the Roseof Turaida and see the ru<strong>in</strong>s of the Episcopal Castleand of the Castle of the Knights of the Sword before wereturn to Riga. The afternoon offers an optional visitto the Ethnographical Open Air Museum, a spaciousexposition of 18th century country life. The even<strong>in</strong>goffers an optional organ concert at the Dome Cathedral.DAY 14 (THURSDAY): RIGARiga, founded <strong>in</strong> 1201 by the German bishop Albert,is the largest of the three Baltic capitals and boasts areal kaleidoscope of architectural styles. The walk<strong>in</strong>gtour of the Old Town <strong>in</strong>cludes Riga Castle, the DomeCathedral, St. Peter’s Church, the Swedish Gate, theThree Brothers, the Large and Small Guilds and theFreedom Monument. The afternoon is reserved for anoptional visit to Jurmala, the vibrant Latvian sea resort,famous for its wooden architecture and sandy beaches.In the even<strong>in</strong>g we enjoy a Latvian d<strong>in</strong>ner at the stylishRestaurant La Boheme.DAY 15 (FRIDAY): RIGA-TALLINNThe tour cont<strong>in</strong>ues along the coastal highway tothe Estonian summer resort of Parnu. We do a shorttour of the resort before we cont<strong>in</strong>ue through theNorth Estonian land of forests and arrive <strong>in</strong> Tall<strong>in</strong>nearly afternoon, check-<strong>in</strong> at the Hotel Radisson BluOlympia**** or similar.DAY 16 (SATURDAY): TALLINNTall<strong>in</strong>n is a charm<strong>in</strong>g blend of medieval tranquility andmodern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busyplace <strong>in</strong> the summer with its many shops, galleries,souvenir markets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. Thesightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour takes us around the old medieval citywalls and <strong>in</strong>to the Old Town where we see ToompeaCastle, Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral,medieval Old Town Hall and Great Guild Hall. In theafternoon an optional excursion is offered to KadriorgPark and visit to KUMU, the award-w<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g newEstonian art museum, with its collections of classic andcontemporary f<strong>in</strong>e art. The even<strong>in</strong>g offers an optionalmedieval d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Peppersack.DAY 17 (SUNDAY): TALLINN - HELSINKIIn the morn<strong>in</strong>g we take the hydrofoil from Tall<strong>in</strong>nto Hels<strong>in</strong>ki and enjoy a refresh<strong>in</strong>g tour through theF<strong>in</strong>nish archipelago before arriv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> Hels<strong>in</strong>ki. Uponarrival we are transferred to our hotel and check-<strong>in</strong> atHotel Radisson Blu Royal**** or similar The balanceof the day is reserved for explor<strong>in</strong>g the F<strong>in</strong>nish capital<strong>in</strong>dividually.DAY 18 (MONDAY): HELSINKIHels<strong>in</strong>ki is truly located at the crossroads of Westernand Eastern culture and this is reflected everywhere<strong>in</strong> the green and lively F<strong>in</strong>nish capital. The sightsee<strong>in</strong>gtour takes us around the harbors, up centralMannerheim Street and by the Parliament Build<strong>in</strong>g,the F<strong>in</strong>land Hall, and the Sibelius Monument and for avisit at the famous Church-<strong>in</strong> the-Rock. The afternoonoffers an optional excursion to Seurasaari Open-AirMuseum, an oasis <strong>in</strong> the midst of the city with cottages,farmsteads and manors from all around F<strong>in</strong>land.DAY 19 (TUESDAY): HELSINKI-ST. PETERSBURGToday we cont<strong>in</strong>ue eastbound to St. Petersburg. Shortlyafter cross<strong>in</strong>g the border <strong>in</strong>to Russia we arrive <strong>in</strong>Vyborg, where we take time for a short sightsee<strong>in</strong>gtour and a visit to Vyborg Castle. In the late afternoonwe arrive <strong>in</strong> St. Petersburg and check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel SokosVasilievsky**** or similar.DAY 20 (WEDNESDAY): ST. PETERSBURGSt. Petersburg is an amaz<strong>in</strong>g city. Its imperial palacesand museums enjoy worldwide fame, while the NevaRiver and the many canals have deservedly given thecity the title “The Venice of the North”. Dur<strong>in</strong>g themorn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour we get acqua<strong>in</strong>ted with allthe splendours of the city: the Peter-Paul Fortress, theW<strong>in</strong>ter Palace, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, the Church of theBleed<strong>in</strong>g Saviour, the Nevsky Convent and much more.The afternoon offers an optional visit to Peterhof, anuncontested masterpiece of the time of Peter the Great,with the impressive Grand Palace, Grand Cascade andWater Avenue and its wonderful parks. In the even<strong>in</strong>genjoy an optional visit to the Nikolaevsky Palacewith an excit<strong>in</strong>g Russian folklore show and Russian„champagne” and snacks.DAY 21 (THURSDAY): ST .PETERSBURGThe morn<strong>in</strong>g is reserved for an optional excursionto Zarskoye Selo with the impressive Cather<strong>in</strong>e’sPalace and the Amber Room, which vanished dur<strong>in</strong>gWorld War II and was restored for St. Petersburg’s tricentennialcelebrations. In the afternoon, an optionalvisit to the world-famous Hermitage Art Museum isoffered. In the even<strong>in</strong>g we enjoy a Russian d<strong>in</strong>ner atRestaurant Na Zdoroviye.DAY 22 (FRIDAY): ST. PETERSBURG-MOSCOWThe early morn<strong>in</strong>g is reserved for an optional guidedshopp<strong>in</strong>g tour to fashion and souvenir boutiques on theNevsky Prospect. Around noon we go to the MoscowRailway Station and board the Sapsan high-speed tra<strong>in</strong>bound for Moscow. The tra<strong>in</strong> ride takes us throughOptional:• Transfer airport to Hotel Scandic Copenhagen:EUR 135.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 155.00 forprivate car/m<strong>in</strong>ivan (4-7 persons)• Guests will receive details from the tour escort aboutoptional toursendless Russian landscapes along the River Volga. Inthe even<strong>in</strong>g we arrive to Moscow and check <strong>in</strong> at HotelNovotel Centre Moscow**** or similar.DAY 23 (SATURDAY): MOSCOWMoscow, The Mother of Russia, is a genu<strong>in</strong>e Russiancity with the Kreml<strong>in</strong> and its onion domed cathedrals.The dramatic changes over the last decade have madethe city to one of the most dynamic metropolis <strong>in</strong>the world. The morn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour <strong>in</strong>cludes allthe highlights of the vast city: the Red Square withKreml<strong>in</strong>, the Theatre Square with Bolshoi Theatre,Sparrow Hills with Moscow University and a visit tothe famous Moscow Metro. In the afternoon is offeredan optional excursion to the Kreml<strong>in</strong> grounds with avisit to the cathedrals. The even<strong>in</strong>g offers an optionalexcursion with a cruise on the Moscow River.DAY 24 (SUNDAY): MOSCOWThe day offers an optional excursion to NovodevichyConvent, a 16th century cluster of sparkl<strong>in</strong>g domes,one of the city’s most beautiful groups of build<strong>in</strong>gsand full of history and treasures. The adjacentNovodevichy Cemetery is Moscow‘s most prestigiousrest<strong>in</strong>g place after the Kreml<strong>in</strong>. The balance of the dayis reserved for an optional excursion to the TretyakovGallery with its outstand<strong>in</strong>g collection of Frenchimpressionists. The even<strong>in</strong>g offers an optional visit tothe Old Russian Circus.DAY 25 (MONDAY): MOSCOWDEPARTUREOptional departure transfer to airport.• Transfer Hotel Novotel Centre Moscow to airport:EUR 80.00 for private car (1-3 persons), EUR 100.00 forprivate m<strong>in</strong>ivan (4-7 persons)VOX audio communication system <strong>in</strong> use throughoutthe F<strong>in</strong>nish and Russian parts of the tourThe most scenic, comprehensive and complete tour ofScand<strong>in</strong>avia, F<strong>in</strong>land and Russia on the market26 27


July-August 2013,10 days/9 nights:Dates:GHI11: 05.07-14.07.13GHI13: 19.07-28.07.13GHI15: 02.08-11.08.13Package prices per person:EUR 895.00 (double occupancy)EUR 350.00 (s<strong>in</strong>gle supplement)Includ<strong>in</strong>g:• 9 overnights at centrally located 3-4 star hotels• 9 x buffet breakfast• Welcome meet<strong>in</strong>g with champagne-cocktail orjuice• Personalized welcome package• Entrances to Rundale Palace, Old University <strong>in</strong>Vilnius, St. Peter’s Church and Towers <strong>in</strong> Rigaand medieval Great Guild Hall <strong>in</strong> Tall<strong>in</strong>n• Service of English and German speak<strong>in</strong>g tourescort on all tours• Service of 1st class motor coaches or 1st classm<strong>in</strong>ivans throughout the it<strong>in</strong>erary• Ferry tickets Klaipeda-Smiltyne-Klaipeda andecological fees at the Curonian Spit• Portage at hotelsMax 31 persons <strong>in</strong> the groups.The tours are recommended for guests <strong>in</strong> normalphysical conditions between 35-65 yearsOptional:• Transfer airport to Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia:EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons),EUR 55.00 for private m<strong>in</strong>ivan (4-7 persons)• Lithuanian d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant 19th Century:EUR 35.00 pp• Organ concert at the Dome Cathedral:EUR 35.00 pp• Latvian d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant La Boheme:EUR 40.00 pp• Medieval d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Peppersack:EUR 40.00 pp• Transfer Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia to airport:EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons),EUR 55.00 for private m<strong>in</strong>ivan (4-7 persons)• Half board at hotels (9 x 3 course d<strong>in</strong>ner withcoffee/tea): EUR 225.00 ppBaltic Hik<strong>in</strong>gDAY 1 (FRIDAY): ARRIVAL TALLINNArrival <strong>in</strong> Tall<strong>in</strong>n, optional transfer to Hotel Radisson BluOlympia**** or similar, check-<strong>in</strong>, welcome meet<strong>in</strong>g.DAY 2 (SATURDAY): TALLINN-CESISAfter breakfast we drive to the Lahemaa National Park,where we embark on a walk<strong>in</strong>g tour through the park (2hours, medium). We cont<strong>in</strong>ue to Tartu, the University Town,where Estonian ga<strong>in</strong>ed its statehood. We see the charm<strong>in</strong>gOld Town and the University founded <strong>in</strong> 1632. From Tartuwe drive onwards <strong>in</strong>to Latvia to Cesis, a Hanseatic citywith w<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g streets, castle ru<strong>in</strong>s and beautiful gardens.Check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel Kolonna Cesis*** or similar.DAY 3 (SUNDAY): CESIS-VILNIUSToday we drive through the Gauja National Park to LigatneWild-Life Park. We enjoy a walk<strong>in</strong>g tour through the park,where bears, deer, elks and other wild animals live <strong>in</strong> afenced-off enclosure of natural habitat (2 hours, medium).After a visit to Sigulda, a popular holiday resort, we drivearound Riga to hit the highway down to Vilnius. En routewe reach the magnificent Rundale Palace, the formersummer residence of the Duke of Courland. Follow<strong>in</strong>g aguided tour of the palace we travel through Lithuania toreach Vilnius late afternoon. Check <strong>in</strong> at Hotel RadissonBlu Lietuva**** or similar.DAY 4 (MONDAY): VILNIUS-KLAIPEDAVilnius is known for its more than 1.200 medievalbuild<strong>in</strong>gs and 48 churches. The morn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour<strong>in</strong>cludes a panoramic tour of the city and a walk<strong>in</strong>g tourof the Old Town with Vilnius Cathedral, Gedim<strong>in</strong>as Tower,Peter and Paul Church, St. Anna’s Church, Old Universityand the Gates of Dawn. After the tour we cont<strong>in</strong>ue toTrakai, the medieval capital of Lithuania, where do awalk<strong>in</strong>g tour <strong>in</strong> the area around the well preserved TrakaiCastle, beautifully located on an island <strong>in</strong> Lake Galve (2hours, light). The balance of the day is spent en route toKlaipeda, where we arrive late afternoon. Check-<strong>in</strong> atHotel Radisson Blu Klaipeda**** or similar.DAY 5 (TUESDAY): KLAIPEDAThe day is reserved for a full-day tour to the CuronianSpit, a th<strong>in</strong>, 100 km stretch of land between the Baltic Seaand the Curonian Lagoon with small fish<strong>in</strong>g villages, p<strong>in</strong>eforests and endless sand dunes. Our first stop is at the Hillof Witches <strong>in</strong> Juodkrante. After that we cont<strong>in</strong>ue to Nidaand embark on a walk<strong>in</strong>g tour around the High Dunes (3hours medium) and get acqua<strong>in</strong>ted with the charm<strong>in</strong>gresort town before we drive back to Klaipeda. The even<strong>in</strong>goffers an optional Lithuanian d<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant 19thCentury.DAY 6 (WEDNESDAY): KLAIPEDA-RIGAKlaipeda first became a part of Lithuania <strong>in</strong> 1923 and hada long history as a German town called Memel. A shortsightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour takes us to the Old Town with its narrow,cobblestone streets and old guild houses and we visit theTheatre Square and the Aennchen von Tharau Founta<strong>in</strong>.We now cont<strong>in</strong>ue to the Samogitia National Park, where weenjoy a walk<strong>in</strong>g tour around the picturesque Lake Plateliai(2 hours, medium). After that we cont<strong>in</strong>ue to Siauliai andCross Hills, one of the holiest sites of Catholic Lithuania.We head North <strong>in</strong>to Latvia and reach Riga <strong>in</strong> the afternoon.Check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel Radisson Blu Latvija**** or similar.The even<strong>in</strong>g offers an optional organ concert at the DomeCathedral.DAY 7 (THURSDAY): RIGARiga founded <strong>in</strong> 1201 by the German bishop Albert isthe largest of the 3 Baltic capitals and boasts a truekaleidoscope of various architectural styles. The walk<strong>in</strong>gtour of the Old Town <strong>in</strong>cludes Riga Castle, Dome Cathedral,St. Peter’s Church, Swedish Gates, Three Brothers, Largeand Small Guild House and the Freedom Monument. Theafternoon is reserved for visit to Jurmala, the vibrantLatvian sea resort, famous for its wooden architecture andsandy beaches. We do a walk<strong>in</strong>g tour on the sandy beachesfrom Pumpuri to Bulduri (3 hours, light).In the even<strong>in</strong>g weenjoy an optional Latvian d<strong>in</strong>ner at the stylish RestaurantLa Boheme.DAY 8 (FRIDAY): RIGA-TALLINNThe tour cont<strong>in</strong>ues along the coastal highway to theEstonian summer resort of Parnu. We do a short tour of theresort before we cont<strong>in</strong>ue through the North Estonian landof forests and arrive <strong>in</strong> Tall<strong>in</strong>n early afternoon, check-<strong>in</strong> atthe Hotel Radisson Blu Olympia**** or similar.DAY 9 (SATURDAY): TALLINNTall<strong>in</strong>n is a charm<strong>in</strong>g blend of medieval tranquillity andmodern urban life. The medieval Old Town is a busy place<strong>in</strong> the summer with its many shops, galleries, souvenirmarkets, outdoor cafés and restaurants. The sightsee<strong>in</strong>gtour takes us around the old medieval city walls and <strong>in</strong>tothe Old Town where we see Toompea Castle, Dome Church,Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, medieval Old Town Hall andGreat Guild Hall. In the afternoon we do a walk<strong>in</strong>g tourthrough the Kadriorg Park and the area surround<strong>in</strong>g theKadriorg Palace. The even<strong>in</strong>g offers an optional medievald<strong>in</strong>ner at Restaurant Peppersack.DAY 10 (SUNDAY): TALLINN DEPARTUREOptional transfer to the airport.Package prices per person:EUR 895.00 (double occupancy)EUR 250.00 (s<strong>in</strong>gle supplement)Includ<strong>in</strong>g:• 9 overnights at 3-4-star hotels• 9 x buffet breakfast• Welcome meet<strong>in</strong>g with champagne-cocktail orjuice• Personalized welcome package• Service of English and German speak<strong>in</strong>g tour escorton all tours• Service of 1st class motor coach throughout theit<strong>in</strong>erary• Ferry tickets Klaipeda – Smiltyne – Klaipeda andecological fees for the Curonian Spit• Bicycle rentalBikes are new modern Estonian produced tourbikes, model comfort and cruiser, 3-6 speeds,hand or foot brakes, equipped with bike bags, luggageboots, mud flaps, reflectors, bells and helmet.Child seat available upon request.Max 21 persons <strong>in</strong> the groups.The tours are recommended for guests <strong>in</strong> normalphysical conditions between 35-65 yearsBaltic Bik<strong>in</strong>gDAY 1: ARRIVAL VILNIUSArrival <strong>in</strong> Vilnius, optional transfer to Hotel Europa CityVilnius*** or similar, check-<strong>in</strong>, welcome meet<strong>in</strong>g.DAY 2: VILNIUS-TRAKAI-KAUNASVilnius is known for its more than 1.200 medieval build<strong>in</strong>gsand 48 churches. The morn<strong>in</strong>g sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour <strong>in</strong>clude apanoramic tour of the city and a walk<strong>in</strong>g tour of the OldTown with Vilnius Cathedral, Gedim<strong>in</strong>as Tower, Peter andPaul Church, St. Anna’s Church, Old University and theGates of Dawn. In the afternoon we cont<strong>in</strong>ue to Trakai,the medieval capital of Lithuania, with the well preservedTrakai Castle, beautifully located on an island <strong>in</strong> LakeGalve. We enjoy a 15 km bik<strong>in</strong>g tour <strong>in</strong> the surround<strong>in</strong>gsof Trakai. We cont<strong>in</strong>ue to Kaunas and take a short stroll <strong>in</strong>the Old Town with its elegant Old Town Hall and Gothiccathedral. Check <strong>in</strong> at Hotel Magnus *** or similar.DAY 3: KAUNAS-NIDA-KLAIPEDAWe get up early to cont<strong>in</strong>ue the tour <strong>in</strong> the direction of theCuronian Spit, a 100 km spit of land between the BalticSea and the Curonian Lagoon with small fish<strong>in</strong>g villages,p<strong>in</strong>e forests and endless sand dunes. A ferry from Klaipedatakes us to the Spit and we do down the spit to Nida. Withit location at the Curonian Lagoon and its comb<strong>in</strong>ation ofold-fashioned fish<strong>in</strong>g village and fashionable sea resort,Nida is one of the most attractive places on the entireBaltic Sea Coast. We visit the High Dunes, Thomas Mann’ssummerhouse and get acqua<strong>in</strong>ted with the charm<strong>in</strong>gresort town. In the late afternoon we enjoy a 30 km bik<strong>in</strong>gtour from Nida to Juodkrante before we go back to Klaipedaand check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel Memel*** or similar.DAY 4: KLAIPEDA-PALANGA-LIEPAJAKlaipeda first became a part of Lithuania <strong>in</strong> 1923 andhas a long history as a German town called Memel. Thesightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour takes us to the Old Town with its narrowcobblestone streets and old guild houses and we visit theTheatre Square and the Aennchen von Tharau Founta<strong>in</strong>.We now enjoy a 30 km bik<strong>in</strong>g tour to Palanga, where wemake a sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour and visit the <strong>in</strong> the BotanicalGardens with the Amber Museum <strong>in</strong> the former TiskeviciusPalace before we cont<strong>in</strong>ue <strong>in</strong>to Latvia and arrive <strong>in</strong> Liepaja.Check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel Europa City Amrita**** or similar.DAY 5: LIEPAJA-JURMALA-RIGALiepaja takes its name from the numerous lime trees <strong>in</strong> thecity and we start the day with a short stroll <strong>in</strong> the Old Townwith its Tr<strong>in</strong>ity Church. Afterwards we drive through theformer Duchy of Courland to Kemeri, where we enjoy a25 km bik<strong>in</strong>g tour through the Kemeri National Park, Thebalance of the day is spent for visit<strong>in</strong>g Jurmala, the vibrantLatvian sea resort, famous for its wooden architecture andsandy beaches. We reach Riga early <strong>in</strong> the late afternoon.Check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel Days Riga*** or similar.DAY 6: RIGA-SIGULDA-CESISRiga founded <strong>in</strong> 1201 by the German bishop Albert isthe largest of the 3 Baltic capitals and boasts a truekaleidoscope of various architectural styles. The walk<strong>in</strong>gtour of the Old Town <strong>in</strong>cludes Riga Castle, Dome Cathedral,St. Peter’s Church, Swedish Gates, Three Brothers, Largeand Small Guild House and the Freedom Monument. In theafternoon we cont<strong>in</strong>ue to Saulkrasti and do a 30 km bik<strong>in</strong>gtour to Sigulda, a popular holiday resort. We see the ru<strong>in</strong>sof the Episcopal Castle and the ru<strong>in</strong>s of the Castle of theKnights of the Sword. We cont<strong>in</strong>ue to Cesis and check-<strong>in</strong> atHotel Kolonna Cesis*** or similar.DAY 7: CESIS-TARTUCesis is a Hanseatic city with w<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g streets, castle ru<strong>in</strong>sand beautiful gardens. Dur<strong>in</strong>g the morn<strong>in</strong>g tour we seethe ru<strong>in</strong>s of the Castle of the Livonian Order and St. John’sChurch. We head to Estonia and the Hanja Nature Parkwhere we do a 30 km bik<strong>in</strong>g tour through the nationalpark and around the Munamagi Hill, the biggest hill <strong>in</strong> theBaltic countries at just 300 m. We cont<strong>in</strong>ue on to Tartu.Check-<strong>in</strong> at Hotel Tartu*** or similar.DAY 8: TARTU-LAHEMAATartu is the university town, where Estonia ga<strong>in</strong>ed itsstatehood. Dur<strong>in</strong>g the morn<strong>in</strong>g tour we see the charm<strong>in</strong>gOld Town and the University founded <strong>in</strong> 1632. After thetour we head for Lake Peipus and <strong>in</strong> the middle of the daywe enjoy a 40 km bik<strong>in</strong>g tour from Kolka via Kallaste toRaja along the lake. The balance of the day is spent ona drive to the Lahemaa National Park. Check-<strong>in</strong> at HotelVihula Manor Country Club & Spa**** or similar.DAY 9: LAHEMAA-TALLINNThe day starts with a 45 km bik<strong>in</strong>g tour through theLahemaa National Park from Vihula via Sagadi and Palmseto Kasmu and the Kasmu Pen<strong>in</strong>sula and afterwardswe cont<strong>in</strong>ue to Tall<strong>in</strong>n. Tall<strong>in</strong>n is a charm<strong>in</strong>g blend ofmedieval tranquillity and modern urban life. The medievalOld Town is a busy place <strong>in</strong> the summer with its manyshops, galleries, souvenir markets, out-doors cafés andrestaurants. The sightsee<strong>in</strong>g tour takes us around theold medieval city walls and <strong>in</strong>to the Old Town where wesee Toompea Castle, Dome Church, Alexander NevskyCathedral, medieval Old Town Hall and Great Guild Hall.Check <strong>in</strong> at Hotel City Portus*** or similar.DAY 10: TALLINN DEPARTUREOptional transfer to the airport.34 35July-August 2013,10 days/9 nights:Dates:Tall<strong>in</strong>n-VilniusGBB02: 24.07-02.08.13Vilnius-Tall<strong>in</strong>nGBB01: 15.07-24.07.13GBB03: 02.08-11.08.13Optional:• Transfer airport to Hotel Europa City Vilnius:EUR 35.00 for private car (1-3 persons),EUR 55.00 for private m<strong>in</strong>ivan (4-7 persons)• Transfer Hotel City Portus airport: EUR 35.00 forprivate car (1-3 persons), EUR 55.00 for privatem<strong>in</strong>ivan (4-7 persons)• Half board (9 x 3 course d<strong>in</strong>ner with coffee/tea): EUR 150.00 pp

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!