New year's in Prague (port-to-port cruise)

We’ll set out on foot for the center of Prague. Holiday markets pop up across the city at the beginning of December and run through the beginning of January. We'll visit the largest and most beautiful in the Old Town, where an immense Christmas tree, nativity scene, and small chalets await. This is also the perfect time to see the city's medieval-style astronomical clock—the most legendary in the world—where the Twelve Apostles appear hourly. Master clockmaker Mikulas of Kadan built the oldest part of the clock in 1410. Wooden statues were added in the 17th century, and the Apostles became the figures in the 18th century. Our sweet treat will be a tasting of the local pastry, known as trdelník, and a cup of mulled wine.

PLEASE NOTE

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

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.