Imperial Prague and Bohemian Treasures: where Baroque elegance meets the Bohemian soul. (Port to Port)

We'll leave by coach for the castle complex, Lobkowicz Palace, built in the 16th century in the Renaissance style. The castle underwent significant architectural changes after the Thirty Years’ War, moving to a more baroque style. We'll discover the largest and oldest private collection in Europe in the enchanting palace, strolling through its majestic rooms overflowing with impressive works of art. Twenty-two galleries hold the exhibit, illustrating the challenges the Lobkowicz family has faced over the centuries. Objects include personal items and priceless works, such as manuscripts from Beethoven and Mozart and paintings by Canaletto, Diego Velázquez, and Pieter Bruegel the Elder.

PLEASE NOTE

• Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

We'll head to the Strahov Monastery, whose library holds over 200,000 works—making it one of the most valued and best preserved in Europe. The oldest, baroque-style section of the current library, the Theological Hall, dates back to the 17th century. The main hall, known as the Philosophical Hall, has two-story-high vaulted ceilings that are neo-classical in style. Frescoes by Siardo Nosecký and Anton Maulbertsch adorn the hall ceilings. We'll then continue on to Loreta. Located in Hradcany, also known as the Castle District, the complex consists of a cloister, a church, and a clock with a famous chime. The Italian-inspired complex dates back to 1626. Make sure you stick around to hear the bells ring on the hour to a melody composed by Dvorak. Today, the complex houses a large collection of liturgical objects, many from the 14th to the 18th century—including a monstrance with 6,222 diamonds.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Departure by coach to the Břevnov Monastery Brewery in Prague.
Discover Prague’s brewing traditions at the majestic Břevnov Monastery. Founded in 993, it has survived the vicissitudes of history, from invasions to reforms, and is today the oldest monastery in Bohemia. From the very beginning, Benedictine monks brewed beer here, preserving an ancestral craft. Through the centuries and trials, this tradition has never disappeared.
Today, a modern brewery installed in restored former baroque stables invites visitors to learn about the brewing process. Guests can taste a popular blond beer as well as several special beers in a setting steeped in history.
Return to the ship by coach.

PLEASE NOTE

• Please wear comfortable walking shoes.
  
• The order of visits may be changed.
  
• Timings are given for guidance only.
  

Departure by tram to the Malá Strana district, a true architectural jewel that has preserved all of its character, both authentic and enchanting. The history of Malá Strana dates back to the 13th century, when it was founded as a separate town from Prague under the reign of King Ottokar II of Bohemia. Established as a merchant town for new German-speaking settlers, its proximity to Prague Castle attracted many artisans, merchants, and nobles, contributing to its rapid growth and economic development.

A living testament to these bygone eras that shaped the Czech capital, Malá Strana has retained its cobbled streets, baroque buildings, and centuries-old churches. Guided tour of the district followed by a visit to the Church of Our Lady of Victory, whose extraordinary baroque interior, remarkably preserved, is adorned with works by some of the greatest artists of the 17th and 18th centuries. You will also see the famous statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague.

Return to the ship by tram.