Two of the most beautiful castles in Europe are in Prague and Budapest

There are castles and cathedrals galore in Europe.  So why not visit the best!

The largest castle in the world is also one of the most beautiful in Central-Eastern Europe. Prague Castle started its life in the 9th century with a church. Centuries later a Romanesque palace was erected here and in the 14th century the royal palace was rebuilt in Gothic style. After a big fire which destroyed much of the castle in the 16th century, it has been renovated and some buildings in renaissance style appeared.

Today the castle houses several museums and important buildings. Most of it is open to the public. To properly explore the place (without visiting the museums) you will need about half a day.

Vajdahunyad Castle is actually (in part) a copy of the Castle with the same name located in the Transylvania region of Romania. The one in Budapest started its life in cardboard at the millennial exhibition in 1896. It was so popular with the locals that it was decided to build it from stone and brick. You can find it right by Heroes’ Square.

A Gothic gate leads to the courtyard. Inside, there is a beautiful chapel – where newlyweds love to take their wedding photos – which is flanked by two pseudo-medieval ambulatory with a corner turret. Among the other replicas, is the castle-tower from Sighisoara Citadel in Romania. Also in the courtyard, we can find the statue of the Anonymus. It is believed that touching its pen brings luck.

You can see these castles and much more by joining us on our Bohemian Holiday, May 26 through June 15.  Park free at Bradley University.  We'll take you to O'Hare airport for you flight to Budapest via Amsterdam. For a brochure call (309) 677-4907, or visit our travel page online where you can download a brochure and reservation form.