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Central Europe; Fascinating History in a Mesmerizing Setting

on February 5, 2020

Central Europe is a vibrant mosaic of beauty, culturally important cities and villages. Dense forests blanket large areas, rolling rivers meander through fairy-tale landscapes, and snow-capped peaks reach high into the sky. Among these natural wonders, some of the world’s most important cities evolved. Tiny villages flourished into richly layered cultural capitals that are the pride of the area today.

It’s easy to become enthralled by the awe-inspiring architecture and welcoming people that all you feel is gratitude toward all that made these cities and villages what they are now. However, the story of how Central Europe emerged into one of the most frequently visited places in the world is neither straightforward nor simple. Gate 1 Travel’s itineraries and knowledgeable tour managers help you understand the complexities of local history and cultural outcomes of war that helped shape these nations. After experiencing this area with our seasoned experts, you’ll return home feeling encouraged and inspired.

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic, once ruled by Communists with an iron fist, is today a vibrant and creative corner of Europe. Its political and cultural capital, Prague, is a scenic showcase of Gothic and Renaissance architecture and one of the best-preserved medieval cities of its size. So authentic are the narrow-cobbled streets of its Old Town they are often used to film movies set in the Middle Ages. Prague is aptly named the “City of a Hundred Spires” for the many towers that soar above the red rooftops.  Its Lesser Town, or Mala Strana, is a cluster of old burgher houses and the Old Town Square lures the curious with its magnificent Orloj. This 600-year-old Astronomical Clock sends out a procession of figurines with the chiming of every hour. Across the 14th-century Charles Bridge, which spans the leisurely waters of the Vltava River, the Royal Castle District beckons from a hillside. The former residence of Bohemian kings, this town within a town was the site of early Prague, a collection of stately buildings, tiny enclaves and pretty courtyards built around the grand St. Vitus Cathedral.

Hungary

If you were to continue down the Danube River by river ship, offered on some of our Gate 1 Travel River Cruise itineraries, you would arrive in Budapest, Hungary’s fascinating capital. The city gracefully straddles the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other. In Buda, sloping hills rise up to the fortress-like Fisherman’s Bastion, an ornate riverside terrace that seems torn from a movie. Not to be forgotten, the Romanesque St. Matthias Church and the Royal Palace with its wings and imposing dome.

On the opposite bank, Pest stretches eastward with a cosmopolitan air. Here, the mighty Parliament Building parallels the river’s shore. The sophisticated Andrassy Avenue, the city’s version of the Champs-Elysees, stretches to Heroes’ Square, a monumental square dedicated to the country’s leaders. To witness the spirituality of Budapest at its grandest, visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral, named for the first King of Hungary. The Great Market Hall is lined with endless stalls of goods that provide an unparalleled snapshot of the city’s culture.

Poland

For many, Poland stands out as one of Europe’s most resilient nations. Its capital Warsaw illustrates the country’s resolve. This beautiful city on the Vistula River was completely destroyed during World War II. After the war, its citizens took to rebuilding their beloved Old Town exactly as it was constructed in the 14th century. Its restored cobbled lanes lead to Market Square, its heart, where the Royal Castle and Cathedral of St. John invite exploration.

Medieval Krakow dates to the 7th century. Many consider this one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Its cultural and architectural heritage spans the centuries, leaving masterworks of the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque eras in the Wawel Royal Castle District, in St. Mary’s soaring basilica, in the Sukiennice Cloth Hall and all along its vast medieval market square. A more sobering sight here is Oskar Schindler’s enamelware factory. Schindler employed more than 1,000 Jews in order to save them from certain extermination at camps such as Auschwitz, which is right outside Krakow.

Germany

Behind Germany’s position as an economic powerhouse is a nation that has tightly held onto its historic influences over the years.The city of Mainz, birthplace of Gutenberg’s printing press, to the castle-dominated town of Heidelberg reveal Germany at its legendary best. Picturesque Heidelberg is one of the country’s most romantic destinations, thanks to its pretty location between the hills of Odenwald and the Neckar River. Home to the oldest university in Germany, Heidelberg is dominated by the red sandstone of the Heidelberg Castle, originally built in the 12th century. As far as authentic historic towns go, Rothenberg is definitely Germany’s best preserved. Untouched by the wars that have swept through Europe over the centuries, Rothenberg even escaped the bombings of World War II. It provides one of the most authentic snapshots of medieval life in the world.

Other German cities were forever altered by war and stand today as triumphant testaments to the human spirit. Berlin today enjoys a free and transparent democracy; the Reichstag, Berlin’s Parliament building, is crowned with a see-through glass dome to symbolize the new transparent atmosphere. Art is embraced here, with the East Side Gallery comprised of 105 paintings on a mile-long length of the old Berlin Wall. The city’s Museum Island in the River Spree is home to five cultural institutions. The past is also well-preserved in Berlin at the 18th-century Brandenburg Gate and at the Checkpoint Charlie Museum.

Dresden also rose from the ashes of World War II, so painstaking was its resurrection, you would never know today that it was completely decimated by Allied bombing. This city of Baroque art has been called the “Florence on the Elbe River” for its rich artistic heritage and elegant beauty. From the rococo-style Zwinger Palace and gardens, to the layered exterior of the Semper Opera House, to the stunning Frauenkirche with its massive dome, the city’s elegance is truly unrivaled.

One of Germany’s most striking sights is the Cologne Cathedral. It is a huge piece of architecture with its double spires comprising the largest façade of any church. It was the tallest manmade structure in the world from 1880 to 1884, surpassed then by the Washington Monument. The cathedral stands on the perimeter of the Altstadt, where you’ll find ample beer pubs. In fact, Cologne boasts the most pubs per capita in Germany, an excellent claim to fame!

The city of Hamburg is an underappreciated gem. Situated on the Elbe River, which flows into the North Sea, it is Europe’s second largest port city. Its official name, the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, dates back to its time as a key trader in the medieval Hanseatic League and to its role as a free imperial city of the Holy Roman Empire. Today, it is a remarkably clean and graceful city. Its citizens embrace the great outdoors in several green spaces, while strolling the walkways at Alster Lake and exploring the fountains and gardens at Planten un Blomen Park.

The capital of Bavaria, Munich, enjoys a breathtaking setting near the foothills of the German Alps. The city is most often associated with Oktoberfest, but its highlights point to a rich history and charming ambiance. At the Baroque Nymphenburg Palace, Bavarian kings whiled away the summer and strolled through their extensive gardens. At Marienplatz, or Old Town Square, the splendid Gothic Revival New Town Hall takes center stage each day at 11am when life-size carved figures emerge to enact fabled stories of Bavaria.

Switzerland

The German Alps outside Munich continue on to form the majestic peaks of Switzerland. This land of chocolate, Gruyere cheese, and watches welcomes you with vistas and landmarks so breathtaking, you will fall in love upon arrival.

Three of its cultural centers sit on namesake lakes, each with a glorious alpine backdrop. The highlight of German-speaking Lucerne is its 14th-century wooden Chapel Bridge. This footbridge spans across the Reuss River, is the oldest truss bridge in Europe, and its interiors are adorned with 17th-century paintings, each one depicting scenes from the city’s history.

In French-speaking Geneva, life seems to revolve around its Jet d’Eau, a single geyser-like fountain that shoots up from the lake more than 400 feet. The green parks and promenades around the lake provide expansive views. Though Geneva hosts the most international organizations in the world, including the United Nations and the Red Cross, its Old City is home to 82 historic Swiss heritage sites. 

Zurich, too, enjoys a charming lakeside setting. This stunning city is often cited as having the best quality of life in the world so you know it’s beautiful. Fraumünster Church, with its five stained-glass windows designed by Marc Chagall, has been turning heads for centuries and its St. Peter’s Church boasts the largest clock face on a church in Europe.

Zermatt is perhaps the nation’s most laid-back resort town, if only because it is a traffic-free alpine paradise tucked on a plateau 5,300 feet above sea level. It is only accessible by a steep mountain tram. Long a base from which to ascend the nearby Matterhorn, whose distinctive summit is visible on clear days, it’s also where you can catch gondolas and a cog railway to some of the other peaks for incredible views.

Not to be outdone, St. Moritz is Switzerland’s other mountain resort city, nestled amidst soaring peaks at an elevation of 5,900 feet. This winter retreat for the wealthy of Europe is one of the most luxurious places on earth.

Austria

For almost 500 years, Vienna was at one time or another the capital of much of Central Europe, thanks to the Habsburg Dynasty and its descendants. They made Vienna their elegant center of culture, with the grandest gifts along the city’s famed Ringstrasse; the Hofburg Palace, Opera House, City Hall, Belvedere Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The monarchy built their 1,441-room summer home at Schonbrunn Palace, an opulent and sprawling estate. While in the city, be sure to take some time to experience Vienna’s famous café life, perhaps sampling the city’s decadent sacher torte, a delicious chocolate cake dessert.

While waltz-composer Johann Strauss called Vienna home, Mozart was born in Salzburg. His music still spills into these streets from concert halls, but it was the film, The Sound of Music, that put this dreamy alpine city on every traveler’s map. Embraced by lofty hills, the city is a tapestry of elegant buildings, lovely squares and manicured gardens, all watched over by the looming 11th-century Hohensalzburg Castle perched atop the Festungsberg Hill.

The city of Innsbruck gained its fame as the host of the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics. Like Salzburg, Innsbruck is home to a stunning collection of splendid architecture, including the Gothic Hofburg Palace and the Baroque-rococo Helblinghaus. The elegant symbol of the city, the Golden Roof, is decorated with 2,738 fire-gilded copper tiles.

One of Lower Austria’s most beautiful regions is the Danube Valley. Long a lure for oenophiles, it has produced high-quality wines for centuries. Charming wine villages, vineyards, and whitewashed churches dot the landscape. Amidst all this beauty in the riverside city of Melk, the Melk Abbey rests on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube River. The Baroque masterpiece, built in the early 1700s, features priceless frescoes and a library of thousands of medieval manuscripts.

So Many Ways to Explore Central Europe with Gate 1 Travel

Our Gate 1 Travel land programs take you to some of the most fascinating pockets of Central Europe, with some of the region’s best-value hotels keeping you comfortable along the way. Want to add some cruising to your journey? Join our European River Cruises along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers that provide an equally rewarding option, with the opportunity to begin or conclude your trip with stays in some of the exciting cities we’ve told you about above. The beauty of a European river cruise is the luxury of unpacking your bags just once and letting fairy-tale villages and glittering cultural capitals come to you. All onboard meals are included, and you’ll explore at the leisurely pace of the waterways. You can even take advantage of the freedom and value of our independent vacations, a great way to follow your own interests in the great cities of Central Europe.

If Christmas Markets are more your scene, Gate 1 has an array of itineraries that visit incredible towns such as Munich, Dresden, Salzburg, Krakow, Prague and more! A variety of stalls awaits full of decorations, gifts, sweets, mulled wine and warm food. Imagine spending the Christmas season in some of the most historic and majestic backdrops in the entire world. From the most famous and largest Christmas Market in Munich, Germany to the Old Town Square location of Prague, Czech Republic, there are truly unforgettable adventures to be had.

Whether you have eight days or fifteen, whether you want to explore one country or five. Gate 1 Travel has the ideal itinerary, each one enriched by the professional service, local insight, and cultural know-how of our attentive tour managers (unless you choose an independent vacation, of course). Join Gate 1 Travel in Central Europe, and enjoy unmatched discovery, unparalleled service and a value that no one can equal. We hope to see you soon in Central Europe!

EuropeGate 1 Connections

Russia, Baltics & Balkans: Incredible Histories Amid Resilient Nations

on December 21, 2019

By their very geography, Russia, the Baltics and Balkans have been at a cultural crossroads since the emergence of the first civilizations. Valuable goods from spices and amber to silver and gold have been traded here, cultural traditions from clothing to dance have been shared, religions from Eastern Orthodox to Judaism have been practiced. It all converged and transformed here. Which is why these far reaches of Europe and Russia are among the most enlightening places to explore in the world. Although each country is very different, from the massive cities of St. Petersburg and Moscow in Russia to the UNESCO World Heritage cities of Tallinn in Estonia and Riga, Latvia to the city rebuilt from the ashes, Warsaw, Poland, comforting similarities will arise when traveling to these beautiful countries. Incredible sights, underrated natural landscapes and the warm hospitality of the people endure in their own ways while old-European charm, Soviet influence and Central European attitudes are all alive and well. Gate 1 Travel gets you to all these countries in comfort and style, and our knowledgeable local guides reveal the secrets and mysteries that make this such a captivating region.

Explore our north-to-south guide to Russia, the Baltics & Balkan’s proud nations and cities on Gate 1’s itineraries.

Russia

British Prime Minister Winston Churchill called Russia, “a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma.” Of course, that was at the dawn of the Cold War, when the then Soviet Union operated behind a tightly closed door. Fast forward to the present where travelers are visiting this culture-rich country in droves. Russia may still exude an enigmatic side, but we love nothing more than seeing travelers unwrap its mysteries, whether they’re exploring this fascinating country by land during our Russia escorted tours or by river during one of our leisurely and eye-opening Russian river cruises.

Moscow:

When most people think of Russia, the imposing red walls of Moscow’s Kremlin come to mind. Once a symbol of intimidation and control, today’s Kremlin is a sign of history and culture that invites endless exploration. Inside are the remains of a czarist heritage and an unrivalled collection of architecture and art. Cathedral Square, surrounded by a stunning trio of cathedrals, is where all the streets of the Kremlin once converged. Nearby, the Kremlin Armory reflects of the imperial days, a breathtaking collection of royal crowns, embossed carriages and the world-famous collection of royal Fabergé eggs.

The vast Red Square is the center of culture in today’s Moscow. Its most recognized landmark is St. Basil’s Cathedral, a soaring demonstration of vibrant color and architectural brilliance created by architects Ivan Barma and Postnik Yakovlev. Its nine onion domes pose a striking profile and not to mention, an excellent photo-op.

In Moscow, even shopping takes on a glamourous style at the GUM department store, a stunning mall of shops covered with a glass roof. If you prefer shopping outdoors, Arbat Street boasts boutiques and cafes where artisans display their wares and Muscovites linger over Russian tea.

Art lovers will find many opportunities to admire some of the world’s finest works while in Moscow. The State Tretyakov Gallery is home to 150,000 pieces that span several centuries while the metro stations are famously decorated in marble, mosaics, chandeliers and statues.

St. Petersburg:

When Peter the Great ordered the construction of his northern city, he envisioned a gilded capital that would rival that of Europe’s cultural capitals; lined with canals, beautiful bridges and cultural institutions. St. Petersburg is all of this, and is often called Russia’s most “Western” city because of it. View the magnificent St. Isaac’s Cathedral and the Bronze Horseman, Peter himself, standing out front. Admire the neoclassical Mariinsky Theater, the last of its style to be built in the city. The Yusopov Palace is shrouded in mystery. It is here that, according to some, Prince Yusopov and some co-conspirators murdered the royal faith healer Grigori Rasputin after the prince grew concerned about the influence the mystic carried with the czar and his family.

The grand centerpiece of St. Petersburg is the Winter Palace, part of the city’s massive Hermitage Museum. During her rule, Catherine the Great, known as a great admirer of the arts, acquired one of the world’s largest private collections in her palace. After her death, the city ensured that her beloved art be shared with the people by opening the doors of the Winter Palace as the Hermitage Museum in 1852. More than six million pieces are held by the museum, with only a fraction on display, including masterpieces by Michelangelo, Picasso, Rembrandt, Monet and countless others. It is truly a must visit.

To see where St. Petersburg began, visit the Peter and Paul Fortress. This was the first structure raised in the city, intended to keep intruders away as Peter built his metropolis. Today, many Russian czars are entombed here. The spectacular Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is dedicated to one of them, Alexander II. This splendid church was constructed as a shrine to him after a bomb was thrown into his carriage on this exact site. It is a stunning example of Russian Romantic Nationalist architecture and stands out for its extravagance and rich appearance.

Russian River Cruise:

A remarkable and culture-rich network of canals, lakes and rivers connect Moscow and St. Petersburg, and you can explore them during Gate 1’s Russian river cruises. These magnificent voyages explore the heart of rural Russia, calling on lesser-known towns and cities where smiling babushkas sell colorful nesting dolls, gilded onion domes peer out from behind forests and wooden architecture dots the landscape. The beauty of exploring Russia by ship is the leisurely pace you’ll experience. Unpack your bags once after you embark, then let the cultural and historic wonders come to you as you are whisked away from place to place. What’s more, you’ll travel aboard a ship that we’ve hand-selected for your comfort and enjoy the service of an attentive staff.

In Lake Ladoga, the island village of Mandrogi clings to rugged shores. Part of the Valaam archipelago, this reconstructed 18th-century traditional village mirrors simpler times when houses, or izba, were constructed from locally felled trees. Kizhi Island is an open-air museum and UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprising more than 80 structures, including the Church of the Transfiguration, built without a single nail.

The 14th-century monastery of Kirillo-Belozersky in Goritsy was once northern Russia’s largest. Though it may appear to lie in the middle of nowhere along the Volga-Baltic Waterway, it is one of the nation’s most important and historic religious sites.

Two other cities are worth a stop along the Volga River. Yaroslavl is one of Russia’s Golden Ring cities for the role it has played in Russia’s eventful history. The 800-year-old Transfiguration of the Savior Monastery and its impressive Cathedral comprise the oldest structures in the city. Both the Church of Elijah the Prophet, with its finely wrought frescoes and icons, and the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonder Worker are both central to the city’s religious past. Uglich, also on the Volga, is most famous as a place of hiding as this is where Prince Dmitry came to escape the wrath of his father, Ivan the Terrible. Dmitry was found by Ivan’s forces and murdered on the spot where the blue-domed Church of St. Dmitry-on-Blood now stands in honor.

The Baltics

Estonia:

Estonia has long been sought after for its strategic location on the Baltic Sea. The capital of Estonia, Tallinn is a UNESCO World Heritage city and is filled with cobbled streets and 14th century churches. Tallinn was a favored post location coveted by its more powerful neighbors, starting centuries of war until the country finally achieved its independence in 1991. Layers of history can be seen at Peter the Great’s Kadriorg Palace while spectacular ruins are seen at the 15th century Bridget’s Convent rising along the banks of the Pirita River. In the Old Town district, the Toompea Castle, Gothic Town Hall and Alexander Nevsky Russian Orthodox Cathedral further demonstrate the beauty of Tallinn.

Latvia:

The “Little Paris of the North” nickname refers to the capital city of Riga, Latvia due to its beauty, numerous museums and concert halls. This historic city is located on the Baltic coast and is a charming UNESCO World Heritage Site. Architectural styles such as Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassical and Art Noveau can be seen displayed on buildings throughout the city. Riga Castle dates back to the 1440s while St Jacob’s Cathedral and St. Paul’s Church are some of the oldest and most valuable monuments of medieval architecture in all of the Baltic States. The Freedom Monument honors soldiers killed during the Latvian War of Independence and bears a symbolic female holding three stars representing the 3 regions of Latvia during the first republic.

Lithuania:

Flat landscapes blanketed with forests and lakes greet you as you drive through Lithuania. The capital, Vilnius, boasts one of the largest historic quarters in Europe, an array of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Vilnius Upper Castle has lorded over the scene for centuries and its adjacent Gediminas Tower is a symbol of national pride. The city boasts more than 40 historic churches and former places of worship. Among them, the Gothic St. Anne’s captivated Napoleon so much that in 1812 he exclaimed he wanted to take it home to Paris, France “in the palm of his hand”.

Poland

For many, Poland stands out as one of Europe’s most resilient nations. Its beautiful capital Warsaw, straddling the Vistula River, plainly illustrates this sentiment. The city saw dark times during World War II, as Jews were imprisoned in the Warsaw Ghetto. The city was completely destroyed by war’s end. After the war, its citizens took to rebuilding their beloved Old Town exactly as it was constructed in the 14th century. Today the restored cobbled lanes lead to Market Square where the Royal Castle and Cathedral of St. John invite travelers for exploration.

The Balkans

Romania:

There is much more to Romania than its legendary Dracula stories. Stunning vistas at every turn, soaring Carpathian Mountains, deeply held folkloric traditions, and beautifully preserved Orthodox churches housed within medieval walled cities combine to make it one of travel’s best-kept secrets.

The nation’s capital, Bucharest, has been compared to Paris for its emerging elegance, wide boulevards, and intentional 1935 replica of the Arc de Triomphe. Neoclassical buildings and Orthodox churches dominate the cityscape of this former communist enclave. Today, museums, opera, and theater set the tone for an increasingly creative cultural center. The most imposing building of Bucharest is the Parliament Palace.

Brasov, Sibiu, and Sighisoara have been lovingly preserved and each evokes the seductive splendor of Old Romania. Transylvania is home to the legendary Dracula, Bram Stoker’s vampire inspired by the towers and turrets of Bran Castle. You will also visit castles less notorious: the 19th-century Peles Castle and the 14th-century Hunedoara. Immerse yourself in Transylvanian culture in Targu Mures, once a rural village and today a small city rich in local tradition and Timisoara, the cultural center of the West.

Bulgaria:

Perhaps it is because so few travelers visit Bulgaria that it remains one of Eastern Europe’s most authentic and untarnished nations. Its capital, Sofia, lies scenically at the foot of Vitosha Mountain and is at the geographic center of the Balkan peninsula. The city has been inhabited since 7000 BC and is rich in Roman and Thracian ruins. Remarkably, many of its Bulgarian Orthodox monasteries survived centuries of iron-fisted Ottoman rule. Today, the National Museum of History chronicles its long past while the gold-domed Alexander Nevsky Church stands proudly as a neo-Byzantine symbol of the city’s enduring spiritual heart.

Serbia:

With rolling hills and enchanting villages, Serbia transports you back to the simpler times of the Balkans. There is much to endear you to its charms, particularly the three-kiss hello you will receive from the famously friendly locals. Along the changing landscape of the Danube River you will reach Novi Sad, a fascinating mix of Serbian and Austro-Hungarian culture and architecture. Enjoy an introductory walking tour of the city and view highlights including the Petrovaradin Citadel, or the “Gibraltar of the Danube”, that towers over the majestic river.

Skirting the Sava River, Belgrade is often thought of as the bohemian cousin to the continent’s more refined cities. It might have gotten this reputation because of the Skadarlija quarter, which has often been compared to the artistic enclave of Montmartre in Paris. Soak it all in as you browse Republic Square and the café-lined pedestrian zone of Knez Mihajlova Street. To get a glimpse into the city’s long history and architectural treasures, visit the imposing Kalemegdan Fortress, erected strategically where the Sava meets the Danube.

North Macedonia:

With its secluded location north of Greece, North Macedonia boasts a rich and enduring culture that has been shaped and sometimes tested, by its geography and its history. The nation’s capital of Skopje wears its pride with the confidence of any European cultural center. Ottoman Turks ruled here for 500 years and vestiges of their culture are everywhere, lending the city an “east-meets-west” atmosphere. Its historic centerpiece, the Kale, overlooks the city. Much of the city’s historic flavor also seeps through the stone lanes of the Turkish Bazaar, known locally as Čaršija or Old Bazaar. Home to some 30 mosques and a number of historic caravansaries, its stalls are brimming with colorful carpets, handmade crafts, carved dolls, and all the traditional makings of North Macedonia.

Ohrid is a true gem to be discovered in the Balkans due to its beauty and serene location. Discover the city, set beside a pristine lake and topped by a medieval castle, by spending some leisure time to walk along the waterfront, lay on the beach or walk to the Roman amphitheater. Take a tour of the Old City where you will discover the Monastery of St. Naum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a stop at the statue of St. Cyril and Methodius, the National Museum, Church of St. Sophia, the Roman Amphitheatre and much more. A unique boat cruise on scenic Lake Ohrid surrounds you with beautiful mountains, villages and beaches.

Albania:

The beating heart and capital of Albania lies in Tirana, known for its vibrant café culture and public art scene. Here you will view the incredible Skanderberg Square, Opera House and National Historic Museum. Step back in time with a special visit to the hometown of the country’s hero Skanderberg in Kruje. The Skanderberg Museum is a seven-level building with display replicas of armor and paintings depicting the battle where Skanderberg fought off the Ottomans. Also visit the Ethnographic Museum and a stroll through the Ottoman style Bazaar where you can browse antiques, gems and handicrafts.

Thank you for joining us on our journey through Russia, the Baltics and Balkans. If you want to further immerse yourself into the rich traditions of these areas, then a Gate 1 Travel tour is an excellent way to do so. Uncover the countless wonders of Russia, the Baltics and Balkans with us and when you do so you will close each remarkable day in comfortable accommodations with delicious cuisine and all the while gaining in-depth knowledge from local guides who call these destinations home.

Travel Tips

Our Top 12 Most Popular Tours of 2018

on May 14, 2018

Gate 1 Travel is letting you in on a little secret. Today we are sharing the top 12 best performing tours thus far in 2018 because you deserve to know! These tours vary greatly in destination but they all excel in showing you must-see sites, beautiful cities, unique cultures and natural beauty all in one escorted tour! We are giving you a countdown of our top 12 tours in hopes of giving you some inspiration when it comes to planning your next unforgettable adventure. Journey with us from Ireland to Vietnam to the United States with a whole world in between and enjoy our list.

12. 9 Day Enchanting Ireland
Enchanting Ireland is right. Ireland is a beautiful country known for a warm culture, lush greenery and excellent sites to see. While on this tour of Ireland you will see some Blarney_Castleof the can’t miss spots including the city of Dublin, where you will enjoy a city tour, visit Trinity College to see the Book of Kells, and have free time to explore. Also enjoy the Killarney area where you will drive through the world-famous Ring of Kerry and see sites on your way. On this tour you will also see Blarney Castle, Waterford, Bunratty Castle, Cliffs of Moher and Galway. If you have been wanting to visit Ireland, there is no better time than the present to go green.

11. 8 Day Essential Vietnam
Vietnam is a country that is so incredibly different from anywhere else that it’s popularity is no surprise. Your tour of Vietnam will most likely begin with a visit to Ho Ch Minh City, formerly Saigon, where you will have the chance to take an optional excursion to Cu Chi Tunnels, enjoy a optional half day tour of the city or explore the city on your own at your leisure. You will also visit the incredible Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see caves, grottos, islands, stalactites, stalagmites and waterfalls, to name a few! You will also have a full day in Hanoi to either explore the city leisurely or take some optional tours that include the Museum of Ethnology and a Cyclo Ride/Water Puppet Show. This genuine country will win you over and you will enjoy every minute of it.

10. 8 Day Classic National Parks, Mt. Rushmore, Yellowstone & Grand Teton
What better way to see what the world has to offer than by visiting parts of your own country? Although our country doesn’t have a history as old as some others, we do have amazing sites, national parks, natural phenomenon and plenty of great cities with their own special elegance. On this tour you will see 3 national parks, stay in 6 different locations and have the experience of a lifetime, all in 8 days! Visit Rapid City, the gateway to South Dakota’s Black Hills and iconic Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. Experience the beauty of Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the United States and home to “Old Faithful”, hot springs, thermal features, rock cliffs and more! You will also get to visit Grand Teton National Park, with its dense forests and rich wildlife and then continue to Salt Lake City, Utah. It’s time to see what the United States has to offer and explore some of our greatest treasures.

9. 15 Day Cambodia & Vietnam
This excellent tour gets you seeing two of the greatest countries of Southeast Asia and experiencing some of the greatest sites they have to offer. In just over two weeks you will Vietnam HalongBay_1109_dt_16304888experience 7 different cities and add two different countries to your list! While on tour, visit Siem Reap, home to some of the most famous sites in the world; Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat. Travel to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy leisure time or take some optional tours to get to know this fascinating city. While on your Cambodia & Vietnam tour you will also see the city of Phnom Penh, Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia, the ancient town of Hoi An, Hue; home to a wealth of palaces, temples, museums and libraries, Halong Bay and Hanoi. This tour covers so much of these two amazing countries that it is a truly unmissable experience.

8. 13 Day Turkish Treasures
Welcome to the true crossroads of Europe and Asia; Turkey. This country has history that dates back to B.C. and has ancient sites to see that are some of the oldest on earth! On your journey to Turkey you will tour the city of Istanbul and see the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace and the Spice Market. Traverse the ancient city of Cappadocia with its surreal rock formations, rock-cut temples and plenty of hot air balloons in the sky, with an optional have your own hot air balloon ride! This extensive tour also includes visits to the classical city of Troy, the port city of Izmir, the resort town of Antalya and Ankara the modern capital of Turkey. Learn about the country and sites you have read about in books like The Illiad and venture to this country today.

7. 13 Day Kaleidoscope of Central Europe
Central Europe has so much to offer in such a small area of the world. On this tour you will visit 5 major cities with a few stops along the way, and potentially add 5 new countries to your list. You will travel to the medieval city of Krakow, Poland, a city that was greatly affected by WWII and see the Jewish Quarter and Ghetto of the city as well as taking a solemn visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau. Experience the former center of the Hapsburg Empire; Vienna, Austria, where you will view Schonbrunn Palace, Empress Maria Theresia Monument, Votive Church, City Hall, Parliament and more. This tour will also bring you to more unforgettable places such as Warsaw, Czestochowa, Budapest, Bratislava and Prague. If you enjoy history, culture, music and experiencing unforgettable places, this tour is perfect for you.

6. 11 Day Affordable Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia is a travel location that is increasingly popular for good reason! This seaside country has excellent cities by the water and a neighboring country of Slovenia that you will not want to miss. This tour includes stops in 7 towns and cities with optional tours to see even more. This extraordinary tour takes you to Dubrovnik, the walled and cobbled-street city that you have probably seen on Game of Thrones, as King’s Landing, and in many pictures. Also explore the lake-side city of Bled, set among the Julian Alps and one of Slovenia’s most popular resort towns. Opatija, Zadar, Split, Krka National Park, Vodice, Zagreb and Ljubjana, Slovania are all included on this fully-packed tour. Come see why so many people are visiting this country and discover many of your own reasons!

5. 11 Day Enchanting Italy
Italy is always a great idea and this tour covers places you have always wanted to visit. If Venetian canals, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Michelangelo’s David, and Pompeii are things you have dreamed about, this tour covers it all and so much more. Visit and stay in the city of Florence, where David, the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and Signoria Square await you. Take a tour of ancient Rome, home of the Colosseum, excellent food and a tiny country called Vatican City. This tour will also take you to Venice, Tuscany, Pisa, Assisi, Pompeii, Sorrento, Bay of Naples and more! If a friendly culture, excellent food and beautiful sites are on your travel list, you will surely cross them off with this tour of Italy.

4. 8 Day Essential Greece
This country, in the heart of the Mediterranean, is home to some of the most famous landmarks in the world; the Acropolis, Olympia and Delphi. This tour has an unbeatable DelphiAthenaprice and gets you all around Greece in just over a week! You will likely arrive in Athens, the capital of Greece and home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Acropolis. Take a tour of the archaeological site of Olympia and see where the games were first held in 776 B.C. Visit the excavated site of Delphi, enjoy the coastal road to the mighty Corinth Canal and take an optional day tour to Hydra, Poros and Aegina Islands. Discover this ancient country that is the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of Western Civilization on this unforgettable tour.

3. 12 Day Danube River Cruise with Prague
A river cruise through Europe is an excellent way to see many destinations while returning to the comfort of a ship between each. Being on a cruise means that while you are busy sleeping or enjoying the ship, you are being whisked away to a new and exciting destination. On your river cruise you will sail along the Danube river and visit Slovakia, Hungary, Austria, and Germany, you will also see the Czech Republic on this specific tour. Visit the essential Danube village town of Melk, Austria where you will walk along medieval cobblestone streets leading to 16th century houses and wine taverns. You will also visit the city of Prague on this tour, where you will see the world-famous Astronomical Clock. The Town Hall, Jewish Quarter and many more sites. Other stops on this tour include Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Durnstein, Linz, Passau, Vilshofen and Regensberg. It’s time to experience Europe in one of the most unique and special ways; on a European river cruise with Gate 1 Travel!

2. 10 Day Affordable Peru
Seeing Machu Picchu is on the bucket list of many travel enthusiasts. If you are one of these enthusiasts this tour was made for you. Visit the city of Lima, the capital of Peru and its excellent landmarks including the Palace of the Archbishop, the Government Palace and the Cathedral of Lima. You will, of course, experience the ancient capital of the Incan Empire, Cuzco, which contains some ruins of its own and will be your gateway to touring the incredible Machu Picchu. This tour also visits Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Uros Islands, Puno and more! This exceptional tour brings you to some of the most photographed and visited places in the world and is affordable as well. Get out your hiking gear because Peru awaits.

1. 13 Day Kaleidoscope of Morocco
If you have not been to Morocco yet, it is a must-visit! This up and coming country has been hugely popular this year thanks to its unique culture, vast array of things to do and excellent pricing! This tour offers many essential locations in Morocco including Fez, an OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAancient city with breathtaking views that you can decide to discover on your own or join the optional city tour. You will also visit Marrakesh where you will visit the Saadian Tombs, Koutoubia Minaret, the Medina and the Bahia Palace. On this Moroccan tour you will also visit Rabat, Erfoud, Rissani, Ouarzazate and Casablanca. There’s no better time than now to start seeing the world and all its beauty and culture. What better way to explore, than to enjoy our most popular tour of the year to beautiful Morocco?