Backroads

The 15th-century hilltop town of Tabor was founded by a radical group of Hussites who envisioned it as a utopia. Stroll the cobbled streets of its lovely Old Town, lined with colorful homes displaying a mix of architectural styles. Then Backroads helps you uncover the secrets of the town’s most intriguing feature: a clever labyrinth of tunnels hidden below the streets, which used to protect its citizens in times of danger. 

The architecture of Austria and the Czech Republic embodies a rich history and is an outstanding feature of your trip. You visit three World Heritage sites, beginning with the Wachau and its castles and monasteries. UNESCO also recognizes historic Prague and the fortress of Český Krumlov for their many architectural treasures that have survived through the centuries.

This part of central Europe saw a renaissance in art and architecture throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly during the reign of Maria Theresa of Austria (1717–1780). The Empress’ initial conservatism gave way to an attitude of tolerance during her last 15 years, in which she shared the throne with her son Joseph II. The only female in the 650-year history of the Hapsburg dynasty, Maria Theresa is considered one of its most capable monarchs – and you see much of her impressive legacy on our Insider journey from Prague to Vienna.

The famous Danube River offers up a historical medley of monasteries, castles and World Heritage sites. On a walking tour of Dürnstein, a local expert brings its past to life. And our cruise down the river – with stops to explore – takes you through landscapes that have captured the imaginations of artists and composers for centuries.

Raise a glass to the wines of Austria’s famous Wachau Valley: The unusual convergence of warm and cold weather patterns from neighboring valleys gives the grapes an added complexity that comes through in wines as a cool fruitiness with a glimmer of the exotic. Prefer a glass of ale to a Riesling? Then you’ll love the Czech Republic. Exceptional beers have been brewed here for a thousand years. Indeed, in 1088 the first Czech king even decreed that a tithe of hops be paid to the church.