Czech Republic & Austria Family Insider
Our Insider family journey begins in magical Prague, whose architecture of spires, turrets and onion-shaped domes tops its list of surprising pleasures, and leads you through the stunning Bohemian landscape, from the peaceful countryside and the authentic Czech city of Tabor to the perfectly restored Cesky Krumlov. Discover the terraced vineyards of the Wachau, Austria's premiere wine region, and the historical and architectural gold along the Danube River, including the famous Melk Abbey and the castle ruins of Dürnstein. Our regional experts and guides, longtime friends of Backroads, help uncover the history and culture of these two intriguing countries, highlighted by World Heritage sites and more subtle treasures. If you and your family are looking for a storybook adventure, leap into the pages of the Czech Republic and Austria on this unique Insider vacation.
The Tunnels of Tabor
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.
Praise for Preservation
The architecture of Austria and the Czech Republic embodies a rich history and is an outstanding feature of your trip. You and your family visit three World Heritage sites, beginning with the Wachau and its castles and monasteries. UNESCO also recognizes historic Prague and the fortress of Cesky Krumlov for their many architectural treasures that have survived through the centuries.
The Enlightened Empress
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 (17171780). 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.
Blue Danube
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 for you and your family. 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.
What's Your Pleasure?
Adults will enjoy raising 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.
COMFORT AND CHARM : Casual Inns
Hotel Nautilus (1 night): Located in the center of town, this artful hotel resides in a recently restored historic building. The British owners, both geologists, have created a unique ambience combining elements of art deco and art nouveau with ancient rock and fossils throughout. And you'll sleep like royalty on comfortable beds the manufacturer is also the official supplier to the British Royal Family.
Hotel Zlaty Andel (2 nights): Three buildings in the Gothic style comprise this spacious hotel set on the town's historic main square. Stylish rooms with all the amenities and three restaurants to choose from, including the funky Restaurant Don Julius, a piano bar and a pub make this one of the most appealing locations on the square.
Romantik Hotel Richard Löwenherz (2 nights): Offering fabulous views of the Danube, this former convent is surrounded by the remains of the medieval city wall. The hotel features lovely gardens, a swimming pool and a romantic terraced restaurant overlooking the river.
2008 DATES
FAMILY TRIPS
Reserve early for the best available price. Prices may change during the course of the year--if they do change, the best prices are available earlier. Once you book your trip, your price is guaranteed.
Recommended Kids Ages
Minimum Ages:
Recommended minimum age for the trip: 9 years
General Info on Minimum Ages:
We strongly encourage families to join our Family Trips, designed with kid- and adult-friendly features. Please note that we have a minimum age requirement of 1 year for all Inn trips and 2 years for all Camping trips. Other than that, we do not restrict trips to a minimum age except in the rare case of a hotel age restriction. We do, however, recommend minimum ages based on the following criteria:
- 12+ cultural appreciation, difficulty of activities
- 9+ difficulty of activities
- 6+ several long adult dinners; there may be multiple activity restrictions
- 3+ activities are suited to young kids; there are few or no activity restrictions; and no long dinners (or we offer alternatives)
Trip praise
Backroads is really excited to add our latest way to explore the world - Insider Trips - to our award-winning biking, hiking and multisport vacations. These are experiences you cannot have behind the wheel of a car, or on a train or a tour bus, or in a few excursions from a cruise ship or a secluded resort.- Backroads President and Founder