Passage to Eastern Europe

Stroll the delightful streets of Szentendre, a colorful village of galleries and artists, and pay a visit to one of its renowned museums commemorating one of the town’s beloved. With cobblestone streets, pastel facades and a red-roofed townscape, Szentendre overflows with charm. In the 1500s, the Hungarian-Serbian community laid the foundations of what we see here today; at one time, eight Serbian Orthodox churches served this rural hamlet. The town holds fast to its roots. And today, it is home to a thriving artists’ community, embodied in the richly hued houses and decorated storefronts. Journey here with your guide and amble along the narrow, picturesque streets, pausing to browse inviting galleries that display the work of local artists. You will also visit the Margit Kovács Museum; this artist’s early 20th-century ceramics and other sculptures won her international accolades as they captured a rich tableau of past times in the Hungarian countryside.

Visit one of Hungary’s most beloved monuments, built by a count in the 1760s. Gödöllö Royal Palace was built by Count Antal Grassalkovich, well-respected among the monarchy and a confidante of Empress Maria Theresa. When the last direct male descendant in the family died, it was bought for the royal couple as a summer house. In the 20th century, Soviet troops used it as a barracks and transformed some wings into rest homes for the elderly. Restoration began in 1985 and continues today. Upon arrival, explore the elegantly adorned rooms of King Franz Joseph’s suite. See the lush furnishings and finely detailed woodwork of Empress Elisabeth’s private apartments. Pause in the impressive Grand Hall to imagine the royal court gathering for ceremonial occasions. Later, discover the French-inspired gardens and the vast, manicured park surrounding the palace.

Step inside Hungary’s grand parliament building and get a flavor for the nation’s hearty cuisine. Transfer with your guide to the Budapest Parliament building, the world’s third largest. As the nation’s business goes on around you, you will enjoy a guided tour of select public rooms. Next, walk to Szabadság Square, or Liberty Square, stopping to view the statue of Ronald Reagan and the art nouveau treasures that surround this public space. You will also see the US Embassy and the decorative Postal Savings Bank. Pause to taste some pogácsa, or salty scones, enroute to the Urban Betyár Restaurant, where you will sample heart sausages and a cup of goulash soup. Finish your tasting tour with a delicious Somlói Galuska and hear the story behind this beloved sweet treat.

Explore Budapest’s Jewish history and heritage, including the Jewish Quarter and massive synagogue. A century ago, Budapest had a thriving Jewish community. In the years leading up to and including World War II, half of the city’s 250,000 Jews were killed. The 19th-century Moorish-Revival Dohány Street Synagogue (Great Synagogue), the largest in Europe, was converted to a stable. Today, a rich Jewish history is preserved, as you will see with your guide. During a walking tour of the Jewish Quarter, once the Budapest Ghetto, admire the Great Synagogue with its glittering interior. In the synagogue complex, browse religious relics at the Jewish Museum and view the “Tree of Life” memorial to the 400,000 Hungarian Jews killed by Nazis. Note that the synagogue is not open to tours on Saturdays and Jewish holidays.

Delight in Etyek’s culinary and viticultural treasures during tastings at four different venues. Take a scenic drive through the rolling hills of the Hungarian countryside to Etyek. Known for its picturesque vineyards and fine sparkling wines, this charming village’s tradition of winemaking goes back more than a millennium; for centuries it played an important role in supplying the wine merchants and the restaurants of Budapest. Upon arrival, take a walk to the village’s historic cellars, stopping at one for a tasting of locally produced pálinka, a traditional fruit spirit. At another cellar, savor a variety of aged hams, then visit a renowned winery, where you will enjoy striking vineyard views and sample their exceptional wines. Conclude your tour at a family-run cheese manufacturer, learning about local production traditions and tasting the delicious end results.