Globus

Imperial Splendors

The over-the-top homes. The complicated relationships. The relentless quest for power. Ruling Austria-and later the Austro-Hungarian Empire-for nearly 650 years, the Habsburgs formed one of history’s greatest, yet often overlooked, European dynasties. This fascinating tour of Central Europe traces the family’s steps-and missteps-as you enjoy the imperial sights of Prague, Budapest, and Vienna with additional overnights in melodious Salzburg and lively Munich. Ornate castles and cathedrals, stunning palaces and parks, and gorgeous gardens and grounds provide glimpse into the intriguing lives and lavish lifestyles of one of history’s most powerful and controversial families. In-depth sightseeing and a cruise along the legendary Danube offer varied vantage points to witness the magnificent marks this royal family left on Central Europe.

04/14/2025 through 09/09/2026
04/14/2025 through 09/22/2026

Day 1

Munich is known for its architecture, fine culture, the annual Oktoberfest beer celebration, its vibrant cultural scene and its museums. But there is much more to Munich than Oktoberfest! Olympics enthusiasts can marvel over Munich Olympic Stadium, the site of the 1972 Summer Olympics and now a park. Visitors may tour important areas such as the swim hall, stadium and view a poignent memorial to the Israeli athletes who perished during the Games. There is also a "Walk of Stars" around the Olympic Lake with handprints from various musicians who have played the stadium, and a Rock museum at the top of Olympic Tower. If you have an urge to go surfing, Munich has you covered. The manmade Eisbach (German for "ice brook") is a small river that flows through the park known as the Englischer Garten, and contains a wave that surfing enthusiasts may practice their skills on.

For traditional Bavarian beauty, don't miss out on Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most visited castles in Germany. The castle is located in Bavaria, near the town of Fussen. It was built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, also known as the “Fairytale King”.

Christmastime in Munich is nothing short of magical, and each market in the city has something unique to offer whether it is the traditional Neuhauser Strasse market at Marienplatz, the rackus party atmosphere at Tollwood to the charmingly quirky vibe at Schwabing. Nothing will get you in the spirit of the season like sipping a warming cup of Glühwein as you browse the multiple stalls of artisan crafts and traditional German food.


Day 2

Munich is known for its architecture, fine culture, the annual Oktoberfest beer celebration, its vibrant cultural scene and its museums. But there is much more to Munich than Oktoberfest! Olympics enthusiasts can marvel over Munich Olympic Stadium, the site of the 1972 Summer Olympics and now a park. Visitors may tour important areas such as the swim hall, stadium and view a poignent memorial to the Israeli athletes who perished during the Games. There is also a "Walk of Stars" around the Olympic Lake with handprints from various musicians who have played the stadium, and a Rock museum at the top of Olympic Tower. If you have an urge to go surfing, Munich has you covered. The manmade Eisbach (German for "ice brook") is a small river that flows through the park known as the Englischer Garten, and contains a wave that surfing enthusiasts may practice their skills on.

For traditional Bavarian beauty, don't miss out on Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most visited castles in Germany. The castle is located in Bavaria, near the town of Fussen. It was built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, also known as the “Fairytale King”.

Christmastime in Munich is nothing short of magical, and each market in the city has something unique to offer whether it is the traditional Neuhauser Strasse market at Marienplatz, the rackus party atmosphere at Tollwood to the charmingly quirky vibe at Schwabing. Nothing will get you in the spirit of the season like sipping a warming cup of Glühwein as you browse the multiple stalls of artisan crafts and traditional German food.


Day 3 The dazzling capital of the Czech Republic, the explorable Prague has fittingly been nicknamed "the City of a Hundred Spires." Halved by the Vltava River and notable for architecture Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic, visitors will find much to take in here. Stroll Old Town Square, bear witness to Astronomical clock's hourly show, marvel at the immense Prague Castle, and be sure to cross the Charles Bridge, with its continuous alley of Catholic statues. And don't miss the breathtaking stained glass at St. Vitus Cathedral.

When in Prague, a cruise on the picturesque Vltava provides great views of the city from a new perspective. Nightlife is plentiful, with many jazz music venues, clubs and pubs to choose from. Beer has also become a great reason to be in Prague, with excellent regional and microbrewed libations delighting thirsty travelers.

Medieval streets, stunning monuments, historic gardens and gorgeous views everywhere you look... Prague is everything a traveler could hope for!
Day 4 The dazzling capital of the Czech Republic, the explorable Prague has fittingly been nicknamed "the City of a Hundred Spires." Halved by the Vltava River and notable for architecture Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic, visitors will find much to take in here. Stroll Old Town Square, bear witness to Astronomical clock's hourly show, marvel at the immense Prague Castle, and be sure to cross the Charles Bridge, with its continuous alley of Catholic statues. And don't miss the breathtaking stained glass at St. Vitus Cathedral.

When in Prague, a cruise on the picturesque Vltava provides great views of the city from a new perspective. Nightlife is plentiful, with many jazz music venues, clubs and pubs to choose from. Beer has also become a great reason to be in Prague, with excellent regional and microbrewed libations delighting thirsty travelers.

Medieval streets, stunning monuments, historic gardens and gorgeous views everywhere you look... Prague is everything a traveler could hope for!
Day 5 The capital and largest city in Hungary, Budapest is a favorite European destination for millions of tourists each year. Once the center of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, this cosmopolitan city and UNESCO World Heritage site has plenty of historical and cultural landmarks to explore.

The prominent Chain Bridge, built in 1849, connected the former villages of Buda, Óbuda, and Pest, separated by the glistening Danube, and led to the establishment of today’s Budapest. Despite extensive destruction to the city during World War II, major efforts to restore historic castles and build new hotels led to an influx of tourists in the decades that followed. Visitors will marvel at the stunning architectural beauty of Budapest’s many cathedrals, basilicas, and synagogues. Climb to the top of famed St. Stephen’s Basilica in Pest to find a spectacular panoramic view of the city, or visit Dohány Street Synagogue, the largest synagogue on the continent and a paradigm of Moorish Revival architecture.

A cruise down the mighty Danube will provide ample sightseeing opportunities for many of the city’s most famous attractions. Find the striking Buda Castle, crafted in a Baroque style and once home to Hungarian royalty, in the “Castle District” of Castle Hill and old-town Budapest, not to mention a host of galleries, museums, and the Hungarian National Library. The Hungarian Parliament building, resembling the Neo-Gothic architectural style of London’s Parliament building, lies across the Danube from Buda Castle. Here, guests can visit the crown jewels and regalia of Hungary’s royalty and take guided tours of the building’s many halls. Even the ruins of Budapest have become exciting tourist attractions, including one of many “ruin bars,” Szimpla Kert, which doubles as a flea market and nighttime music bar. Lovers of theater and the arts will appreciate tours of the opulent Hungarian Opera House or authentic folk dancing shows at Danube Palace Theater.
Day 6 The capital and largest city in Hungary, Budapest is a favorite European destination for millions of tourists each year. Once the center of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, this cosmopolitan city and UNESCO World Heritage site has plenty of historical and cultural landmarks to explore.

The prominent Chain Bridge, built in 1849, connected the former villages of Buda, Óbuda, and Pest, separated by the glistening Danube, and led to the establishment of today’s Budapest. Despite extensive destruction to the city during World War II, major efforts to restore historic castles and build new hotels led to an influx of tourists in the decades that followed. Visitors will marvel at the stunning architectural beauty of Budapest’s many cathedrals, basilicas, and synagogues. Climb to the top of famed St. Stephen’s Basilica in Pest to find a spectacular panoramic view of the city, or visit Dohány Street Synagogue, the largest synagogue on the continent and a paradigm of Moorish Revival architecture.

A cruise down the mighty Danube will provide ample sightseeing opportunities for many of the city’s most famous attractions. Find the striking Buda Castle, crafted in a Baroque style and once home to Hungarian royalty, in the “Castle District” of Castle Hill and old-town Budapest, not to mention a host of galleries, museums, and the Hungarian National Library. The Hungarian Parliament building, resembling the Neo-Gothic architectural style of London’s Parliament building, lies across the Danube from Buda Castle. Here, guests can visit the crown jewels and regalia of Hungary’s royalty and take guided tours of the building’s many halls. Even the ruins of Budapest have become exciting tourist attractions, including one of many “ruin bars,” Szimpla Kert, which doubles as a flea market and nighttime music bar. Lovers of theater and the arts will appreciate tours of the opulent Hungarian Opera House or authentic folk dancing shows at Danube Palace Theater.
Day 7 Classical music, palaces, exhilarating art... and did we mention the coffee? Vienna, Austria is a city of elevated tastes and a must-see experience for any European traveler.

Set on the Danube River, Vienna's attractions include Schönbrunn Palace, The Hofburg, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and the public park Prater, which boasts a giant ferris wheel.

This modern capital of Austria can be navigated on foot and via public transportation. Though it endured heavy damage during World War II, the character of Vienna lures visitors in, and stays with them long after they depart.
Day 8

Nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Alps, Salzburg, Austria, exudes a timeless charm that combines Baroque splendor, musical heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty. The city is famously known as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of the world's greatest composers. Visitors can immerse themselves in the life and works of Mozart by visiting his birthplace, now a museum, on Getreidegasse, a picturesque street lined with wrought-iron signs and colorful facades. Salzburg's Altstadt, or Old Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, characterized by its stunning Baroque architecture, including the magnificent Salzburg Cathedral and the Residenz Palace, both of which tell the tale of the city's rich history as a powerful ecclesiastical state.

For those enchanted by the magic of cinema, Salzburg offers a unique connection to the beloved musical "The Sound of Music." Fans can relive iconic scenes by visiting locations such as Mirabell Gardens, where the "Do-Re-Mi" song was famously filmed, and the Leopoldskron Palace, which served as the backdrop for the Von Trapp family home. Beyond its film legacy, the city is renowned for its classical music scene. The annual Salzburg Festival, held each summer, draws music enthusiasts from around the world to experience a series of opera, concert, and drama performances, bringing Mozart's compositions to life in the very city that shaped him.

Salzburg is also a gateway to the natural wonders of the Austrian Alps. Just a short distance from the city, travelers can explore the stunning Salzkammergut region, with its crystal-clear lakes and towering mountains that provide opportunities for hiking, cycling, and skiing. The imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of the largest fully preserved castles in Europe, offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. A walk up to this hilltop fortress is a journey through centuries of history, with exhibits showcasing medieval weaponry, historical artifacts, and the princely apartments of the archbishops who once ruled Salzburg.

A fun fact about Salzburg is its unique culinary scene, which is heavily influenced by both Austrian and Bavarian traditions. The city is famous for its traditional sweet treats, such as the "Mozartkugel," a chocolate and marzipan confection named in honor of Mozart. Another local delicacy, the "Salzburger Nockerl," is a light, fluffy dessert meant to resemble the snow-capped mountains surrounding the city. Whether it's savoring these delights in a traditional café or dining in a centuries-old inn, Salzburg offers a feast for the senses that combines its cultural, musical, and natural heritage into one unforgettable experience.


Day 9

Nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Alps, Salzburg, Austria, exudes a timeless charm that combines Baroque splendor, musical heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty. The city is famously known as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of the world's greatest composers. Visitors can immerse themselves in the life and works of Mozart by visiting his birthplace, now a museum, on Getreidegasse, a picturesque street lined with wrought-iron signs and colorful facades. Salzburg's Altstadt, or Old Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, characterized by its stunning Baroque architecture, including the magnificent Salzburg Cathedral and the Residenz Palace, both of which tell the tale of the city's rich history as a powerful ecclesiastical state.

For those enchanted by the magic of cinema, Salzburg offers a unique connection to the beloved musical "The Sound of Music." Fans can relive iconic scenes by visiting locations such as Mirabell Gardens, where the "Do-Re-Mi" song was famously filmed, and the Leopoldskron Palace, which served as the backdrop for the Von Trapp family home. Beyond its film legacy, the city is renowned for its classical music scene. The annual Salzburg Festival, held each summer, draws music enthusiasts from around the world to experience a series of opera, concert, and drama performances, bringing Mozart's compositions to life in the very city that shaped him.

Salzburg is also a gateway to the natural wonders of the Austrian Alps. Just a short distance from the city, travelers can explore the stunning Salzkammergut region, with its crystal-clear lakes and towering mountains that provide opportunities for hiking, cycling, and skiing. The imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of the largest fully preserved castles in Europe, offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. A walk up to this hilltop fortress is a journey through centuries of history, with exhibits showcasing medieval weaponry, historical artifacts, and the princely apartments of the archbishops who once ruled Salzburg.

A fun fact about Salzburg is its unique culinary scene, which is heavily influenced by both Austrian and Bavarian traditions. The city is famous for its traditional sweet treats, such as the "Mozartkugel," a chocolate and marzipan confection named in honor of Mozart. Another local delicacy, the "Salzburger Nockerl," is a light, fluffy dessert meant to resemble the snow-capped mountains surrounding the city. Whether it's savoring these delights in a traditional café or dining in a centuries-old inn, Salzburg offers a feast for the senses that combines its cultural, musical, and natural heritage into one unforgettable experience.


Day 10

Munich is known for its architecture, fine culture, the annual Oktoberfest beer celebration, its vibrant cultural scene and its museums. But there is much more to Munich than Oktoberfest! Olympics enthusiasts can marvel over Munich Olympic Stadium, the site of the 1972 Summer Olympics and now a park. Visitors may tour important areas such as the swim hall, stadium and view a poignent memorial to the Israeli athletes who perished during the Games. There is also a "Walk of Stars" around the Olympic Lake with handprints from various musicians who have played the stadium, and a Rock museum at the top of Olympic Tower. If you have an urge to go surfing, Munich has you covered. The manmade Eisbach (German for "ice brook") is a small river that flows through the park known as the Englischer Garten, and contains a wave that surfing enthusiasts may practice their skills on.

For traditional Bavarian beauty, don't miss out on Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most visited castles in Germany. The castle is located in Bavaria, near the town of Fussen. It was built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, also known as the “Fairytale King”.

Christmastime in Munich is nothing short of magical, and each market in the city has something unique to offer whether it is the traditional Neuhauser Strasse market at Marienplatz, the rackus party atmosphere at Tollwood to the charmingly quirky vibe at Schwabing. Nothing will get you in the spirit of the season like sipping a warming cup of Glühwein as you browse the multiple stalls of artisan crafts and traditional German food.


04/12/26 - 04/21/26

Starting At $3,569

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04/26/26 - 05/05/26

Starting At $4,299

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05/10/26 - 05/19/26

Starting At $3,699

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05/24/26 - 06/02/26

Starting At $3,749

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06/07/26 - 06/16/26

Starting At $3,639

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06/21/26 - 06/30/26

Starting At $4,299

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07/05/26 - 07/14/26

Starting At $3,569

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07/19/26 - 07/28/26

Starting At $3,679

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08/02/26 - 08/11/26

Starting At $4,499

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08/16/26 - 08/25/26

Starting At $2,869

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08/30/26 - 09/08/26

Starting At $3,749

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09/13/26 - 09/22/26

Starting At $3,829

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The “Starting at” or listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per passenger based on double occupancy and does not include international airfare. Some tours require intra-vacation flights (and in some cases intra-vacation segments must be purchased from Globus) in which case intra-vacation air and taxes are included in the price shown.

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