Mystic castles and cultures, distinctive UNESCO World Heritage sites and spectacular natural wonders are just a few elements that make up a quartet of countries that delicately balance the old world and new. Located in the heart of Eastern Europe, the foursome includes the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia. Beyond borders, these four Eastern Europe countries share customs and heritages while offering a new, remarkable perspective to travelers in search of architectural splendors and natural beauty.
Attractions certain to exceed visitor expectations include the Czech Republic’s enchanting medieval city and World Heritage site of Ceský Krumlov, Poland’s historic capital of Warsaw, Hungary’s award-winning artistic town of Pécs and Slovakia’s economic center Bratislava, which is perched amid the sloping banks of the Danube.
We recommend spending several days to a few weeks wandering through the vibrant historical cities, modern restaurants and shops, exquisite Gothic cathedrals and vast, green forests of these intriguing nations.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic has a vibrant culture, strong economy and modernized feel without comprising its rich history and cultural heritage. Founded as an independent country in 1993, it is situated at the crossroads of European culture sharing its borders with Poland, Austria, Germany and Slovakia. Prague, the country’s capital city, is set amid graceful bridges overlooking the Vltava River offering an energetic yet historical culture. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Charles Bridge, one of the oldest stone bridges in Eastern Europe with construction dating back to 1357. Stroll across the bridge and browse for local artwork, antiques or exquisite Bohemian crystal while enjoying street performers and a magical view of the city.
Another must-see sight in Prague is the city’s medieval 1,000-year-old Prague Castle, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, Prague Castle – a UNESCO World Heritage site – is the largest coherent castle complex in the world. With stunning Roman and medieval Gothic architecture, this castle is open daily and should be included on your itinerary.
Not just colorful, the beautiful stained glass windows of the Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral sit high above the striking red-tiled rooftops of the Old Town. In the square, be sure not to miss the medieval astronomical clock that adorns the southern wall of the Old Town City Hall. The clock announces every hour with a show of the 12 Apostles and other moving sculptures in the window above the dial. Top off your day by touring the Pilsner Urquell brewery, home to the world’s first bottom-fermented beer known today as Pilsner. Its 1842 Bavarian-style brewing served as a prototype throughout the world. From its wealth of 12 UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the perfectly preserved Jewish Quarter in the town of Trebic (South Moravia) or the one-of-a-kind modernist villa Tugendhat in Brno (the newest addition), to its exquisite Bohemian red garnets, the Czech Republic is clearly a shining jewel in the center of Europe.
Hungary – A Love for Life
Hungary is home to the world’s largest church and second largest synagogue, as well as the more diminutive Szentendre, a picturesque town popular among artists. Throughout history, Hungary has inspired great artists, such as 18th-century classical composer, Joseph Haydn, who lived and worked in the Eszterhazy Family Palace in Fertod.
Budapest, long considered the “city of a thousand faces,” boasts nearly one million residents. Budapest also claims an astonishing eight UNESCO World Heritage sites including the city itself. Budapest’s booming contemporary Hungarian art scene hosts the annual international Art Market Budapest. Also within Budapest is the Hungarian State Opera House, which is widely considered one of the worlds finest. To stroll back in time, spend an afternoon exploring the cobblestone streets of the renowned Castle District to the glorious Matthias Church, constructed in the late Gothic style of the 14th century. Or explore the expansive 900-foot-long Parliament building along the banks of the Danube River. The city also offers more thermal pools or “Turkish baths” than any other capital in Europe. These Turkish baths date back to the 16th and 17th centuries and most locals insist by the pools healing qualities claiming a dip can help fight fatigue and depression while relieving the pain of arthritis and aching joints.
With it’s bustling cafes and world-class dining, relaxing mineral baths and more, Hungary’s modern culture exists side-by-side with natural wonders making it a charming and magical destination.
Poland – Perfectly Diverse
Rebuilt from the ground up following World War II, Poland’s capital city, Warsaw, truly showcases the tenacity of the Polish people. The rich cultural and religious heritage of Eastern Europe thrives here, including Warsaw’s reconstructed Royal Castle, medieval Old Town and Museum of the Polish Jews to be opened in 2013 on the grounds of the former Historic Ghetto.
The most verdant capital in Europe, more than 23 percent of Warsaw is dedicated to parklands, such as the magnificent Royal Lazienki Park. This beautiful palace and garden complex includes many historical monuments and a park – formerly a wild forest. Join music lovers who gather here every Sunday from May to September to enjoy free piano concerts next to the famous Chopin
monument. Poland’s former capital, Krakow, was awarded the title of European City of Culture in 2000. Its plethora of monuments, museums and cathedrals, such as the renowned Gothic St. Mary’s Church with the tallest wooden alter on the continent, and priceless works of Leonardo da Vinci, make it a popular destination for travelers. Nearby, walk through the extraordinary labyrinth of giant caverns and underground lakes of Wieliczka Salt Caves. This UNESCO World Heritage site contains the oldest salt mines in the world continuously operated since the 13th century.
Enjoy a traditional meal of perogies, cooked cabbage and sauerkraut at one of the many family-owned restaurants and shop at antique stores or art galleries of the unique Old Town Market and Royal Castle Square. Poland offers something to satisfy every taste.
Slovakia – Naturally Exquisite
For centuries, the deep blue vein of the Danube River has provided a lifeline to Slovakia and Western Europe. From its towering Tatra Mountains in the north to its agricultural lowlands of the south, Slovakia’s stunning landscape of natural beauty and untouched wilderness awaits your discovery. The lively capital of Bratislava beats at the heart of the country’s political, economic and cultural center. Its flourishing downtown area showcases an eclectic mix of nearly every architectural period including Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo and Classical. Fine examples include the 13th-century Town Hall, 14th- through 15th-century St. Michael’s tower and St. Martin’s Cathedral, and the meticulously restored Bratislava Castle. Visit the Main Square, Hlavne Namestie, lined with unique statues and pastel-colored Baroque and Renaissance edifices. Many enjoy the climb of the tower at Michael’s Gate, Bratislava’s only remaining preserved medieval city gate.
Explore the tastes of Slovak cuisine in the city center where you can practically find a restaurant, café or pub on every corner – there are hundreds in the pedestrian zone alone. Try the typical Slovak dish Bryndzové halušky (a kind of cheesy potato dumpling) paired with a local wine such as Tokaj, Riesling or Veltliner or a distinctive Slovak beer for a true local culinary experience.? Revitalize body and soul in one of Slovakia’s 1,160 therapeutic mineral springs. Explore its mesmerizing cathedrals, nine national parks, including a UNESCO World Heritage site – the Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians. Clearly, this two-thousand-year-old nation will inspire visitors for centuries to come.
