An Overview of the Historic Attractions of Prague

Prague, capital of the Czech Republic and one of Central Europe’s economic and cultural centers. Prague is considered one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

 

 

Charles Bridge

Prague Astronomical ClockMany of the city’s most famed landmarks are located here, including:

  • Charles Bridge, which is the city’s oldest surviving bridge. Charles IV commissioned the bridge in 1357 and it was completed in 1390. It is notable for its striking Gothic towers on either side as well as the historic statues that can be found along its length.
  • Hradcany Castle, which was once the seat of the country’s rulers but is currently the Czech president’s official residence. Established in the ninth century, it is a complex encompassing 45 acres where many historical landmarks can be found.
  • St Vitus Cathedral is a must see attraction in the Hradcany Castle complex. It is where the coronation ceremonies of Bohemia’s kings were once held. The cathedral also has several underground tombs were a number of kings are buried.
  • The Prague Astronomical Clock, which is installed outside of the Old Town Hall in Old Town Square. Originally installed in 1410, the clock is the oldest one of its type to be still operating. It’s marking of the hour draws visitors from all over the world.
  • Prague Castle, which overlooks the Lesser Town and dates back to the ninth century. The castle complex encompasses an area of nearly 70,000 square meters and includes ecclesiastical buildings and palaces in a variety of architectural styles ranging from the Gothic to the Romanesque. It has also been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • St. Vitus Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral notable as an outstanding example of Gothic architecture. Located in the Prague Castle complex, the cathedral is currently the seat of Prague’s Archbishop.

St Victus Cathedral located in Prague

Visitors who want to learn about Prague’s rich history can visit some of the city’s many museums. The most interesting of these include:

  • The Jewish Museum is a complex of preserved monuments that include synagogues, the Old Jewish Cemetery and the Jewish Ceremonial Hall. Walking through the cobblestoned streets of the exhibits offers visitors a glimpse into the history of Prague’s Jewish community.
  • The Museum of Communism shows how Czechs lived under Communist rule from 1948 until 1989. Visitors can view multimedia exhibits as well as the museum’s collection of propaganda and other artifacts from the period.
  • The St. Cyril and St. Methodus Cathedral is an Orthodox Church whose basement hosts a memorial to Czech resistance fighters who assassinated the city’s Nazi governor Reinhard Heydrich in May 1942 and hid in the cathedral’s crypt afterwards. The church itself is of historic interest since it was Prague’s first Orthodox cathedral.

There are several ways to visit Prague, including river cruises from Prague.

We offer river cruises on the Elbe River and Vitavia River aboard an 80 passenger Paddleboat – Elbe Princess I and II.  Cruise itineraries include 7-night round trip Prague and 9 day Elbe River Cruise between Belin and Prague.

Another way to see Prague from a river cruise tour is with as pre or post land program from a Danube or Main-Danube River Cruise or Mosel River Cruise.  There are even Christmas Market cruises between Budapest and Nuremberg or Budapest and Vilshofen, so you can enjoy Prague Christmas Markets.

For more information contact us:  888-869-7907 / 713-240-6753  jan@europeanbarging.com

 

Europeanbarging Presents a Bordeaux Wine Cruise From August 14 – 21, 2025

Europeanbarging, a Texas based company offering barge and river cruises in Europe, announced a SPECIAL DISCOUNT of $1000 pp on a Bordeaux Wine Cruise, departing August 14 – 21, 2025.

Wine Tasting

The Bordeaux cruise, scheduled on the AMA Dolce ship will be hosted by Barons Creek Winery’s wine maker D Russell Smith.  Russell will offer several tastings and discussions on their wines and winery, as well as wine making. A pairing of their wines will be offered with a special Amawaterways gourmet meal. In addition to the multiple included excursions offered, there are many wine themed excursions as well.  Book by March 30, 2024 for the discounted rate starting at $3830 per person.

BORDEAUX SITES

Travel to France’s legendary wine capital, Bordeaux, on an epicurean experience. Iconic châteaux, timeless vineyards and delicious wine tastings are plentiful on this wine-themed journey. Attend an exclusive wine festival in Bourg, sample Grand Cru Classé wines and experience the wonderful world of viticulture with all your senses at the immersive Cité du Vin museum in Bordeaux.  The AmaWaterways Cruise departs on August 14th and will disembark on August 21st, 2025.

The 7- day cruise promises a great time aboard the ship and on land during each scheduled port. There’s no more fitting starting point for this sailing along the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers than Bordeaux, an undisputed wine capital. Enjoy exquisite tastings just as unforgettable as the wines you’ll sip. Visit the renowned vineyards of Saint-Émilion, Pauillac and Libourne, discovering timeless wine-making traditions, and visit the Bordeaux Wine Museum, a spectacular sensory experience with the power to turn even the most hesitant wine drinkers into connoisseurs.  Various cities and sights are part of the AmaWaterways Wine Cruise destinations that includes: Bordeaux, Libourne, Saint-Emilion, Blaye, Bourg, Pauillac and Cadillac.

 

Grapes in Bordeaux

Grapes from Bordeaux

EXCURSIONS

The following Multi-Choice excursions are included in the cruise price:

In Saint-Emilion, choose from a tour of Saint-Emilion and Grand Cru Classe wine tasting OR Saint Émilion bike tour;

In Libourne choose Ancient Watermill and breadmaking OR Bastide town and market visit OR Château Boutinet hike with wine & tapas tasting;

In Blaye, a visit to the Citadel OR Blaye bike tour towards Les Etauliers Blaye to Bourg bike tour.

Bourg offers a walking tour including Carriage Museum and WWII Petrol Cistern.  Later enjoy an Exclusive wine festival.

In Cussac-Fort-Medoc, Medoc Grand Cru Classé wine tasting and scenic vineyard tour  OR Margaux Vineyard hike and local specialties tasting  OR  Seaside Soulac-sur-Mer excursion;

Cadillac features the Roquetaillade Castle with Sauternes wine tasting OR  Roquetaillade and Cadillac visit OR Cadillac bike tour;

In Bordeaux a UNESCO city tour and market tasting  OR Bordeaux bike tour.  Evening  Wine Museum OR  Bassins de Lumieres (Digital arts centre).

Optional, pre cruise land program featuring 2 nights in Bilbao and 2 nights in San Sebastian Spain ($1320 pp). A post cruise land program in France with 2 nights in the Loire Valley and 1 night in Paris ($1485 pp).

Barons Creek Vineyards was started back in 2016 as a venture of the Chase Family. In 2018, Marc and Marta Chase took over full ownership and management of Barons Creek with Wine Maker Russell Smith.   With a team of over 50 employees that operate four separate locations throughout Texas.

WINE HOST

D Russell Smith, our winemaker, has an impressive 41 years of experience. Originally from Houston, Russell began his winemaking career in Napa Valley in 1983. Russell returned to Texas in 1989 and has been making wine here ever since. In 2012, Russell bought two vineyards in northeastern Spain and makes wine there part of the year. Russel has been crafting exceptional wines in the picturesque vineyards of Texas, California, and Spain for Barons Creek Vineyards since they opened in 2015. His touch transforms grapes into liquid art. Each blend reflects his decades of expertise, capturing the essence of the vineyards and the spirit of BCV.

Europeanbarging, founded in 1998, is an ARC accredited agency, and specializes in European barge and river cruise products.

AmaWaterways, is the only cruise line that has the privileged of being inducted into La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, one of the world most prestigious culinary organizations.   Additionally, they are members of the Prestigious Tables et Auberges de France – leading the way in the cruise industry as one of the most innovative food and wine  experiences both on-board and on-shore.

The $1000 per person discount ends March 30, 2024.

For more information contact Europeanbarging at: 888-869-7907 or http://www.europeanbarging.com.

Burgundy Wine Cruise hosted by Texas Winery – Messina Hof

Europeanbarging, a Texas-based company offering barge and river cruises, today announced a SPECIAL DISCOUNT of $750 per cabin on a Wine Cruise for its clients, slated for Spring, starting from March 20 – 27, 2025. Book by March 31, 2024 and Discounted rates start at $3280 per person, including port tax.

 

The wine cruise is scheduled on the AMACello ship and will be the 8th wine cruise hosted by the owners of Messina Hof Winery – Paul and Merrill Bonarrigo, who will offer several tastings and discussions on their wines and winery, as well as winemaking. A pairing of their wines will be offered with a special AmaWaterways gourmet meal. In addition to the many wine-themed excursions, there are multiple included excursions offered in each port, including hiking and cycling tours.  Excursions feature Gentle, regular, active, and late-riser tour options.

YOUR JOURNEY ALONG THE SAÔNE RIVER

Experience the viticultural pleasures of the Burgundy region on this river cruise curated for new and experienced wine enthusiasts alike. Indulge in wine tastings set against the backdrop of picturesque destinations. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes of graceful vineyards and storied landmarks along the Saône River. Delve into the techniques that shape the renowned wines of this region, gaining insight into traditional processes that have stood the test of time. Hosted by a dedicated wine expert, this journey is a must for anyone interested in the best of Burgundy’s wines.  Cruise ports include:  starting in Dijon, Seurre, Beaune, Chalon-sur-Saône, Tournus, Brancion, Mâcon, and ending in Lyon.

Messina Hof is the most awarded and renowned Texas wine in national and international competitions. In a community steeped in tradition, Messina Hof Winery & Resort holds its own with a 200-year history of award-winning wines. Although the winery itself was officially established with the first vintage release in 1983, the rich wine heritage of Winemaker Paul Bonarrigo dates back six generations to Messina, Sicily. Merrill Bonarrigo’s family originates from Hof, Germany. Together they have pioneered the Texas wine industry in creating premium wines of distinction and a landmark wine country destination.

The cruise rate includes all sightseeing, meals, wine with dinner, a daily happy hour before dinner, free internet, and the use of bicycles on board.  There is an optional pre-cruise land program in Paris France ($1485 per person), and a post-cruise land program in Geneva Switzerland ($1530 per person).  The special $750 per person discount offer ends March 30, 2024. Port tax is an additional $231 per person. A deposit of $400 per person is due with booking, balance is due 90 days before departure. Payment plans are available.

Europeanbarging was founded in 1998 and specializes in European barge and river cruise products. Located in Texas, Europeanbarging is an ARC-accredited company. AmaWaterways, the only cruise line that has the privilege of being inducted into La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, one of the world’s most prestigious culinary organizations and Tables et Auberges, leading the way in the cruise industry as one of the most innovative food and wine experiences both on-board and on-shore.

For more information contact Europeanbarging at 888-869-7907 or http://www.europeanbarging.com.

 

Cruising the Canals of France on the Deborah barge

MS Deborah barge, cruising the Champagne region of France as well as cruising from Paris to Burgundy, is a superb Premium canal barge, accommodating 22 passengers, in 11 cabins offering amenities and providing guests with all the comforts they need during their stay.

Deborah barge cruising the Champagne region of France

On board, everything has been taken care of down to the smallest detail with 6 crew members to guarantee a personalized service. The decoration creates a particularly soft and welcoming atmosphere. Located on the upper deck is the restaurant, which offers delicate cuisine in a refined setting, a lounge bar, and a relaxation area with a jacuzzi. Comfortable sun loungers are provided on the sun deck, the ideal place to relax and admire the surrounding landscapes.  The barge also features bicycles for cycling along the canal towpath or for cycling the nearby towns and countryside.

Excursions on the Champagne itinerary can include Reims Cathedral featuring stained glass windows by Marc Chagall, champagne tastings, a falconry show at Chateau-Thierry, and a tasting of Meaux cheese in Meaux.

On the Paris and Petite Seine, enjoy a tour of Paris, a tour of the Palace of Fontainebleau and its gardens, the Medieval town of Troyes, a champagne-tasting, and a visit to Chateau de Vaux-le-Vicomte.

The Deborah has comfortable cabins, with safes, telephone, and tv with lots of movies in English.  The ship is a new build rather than a converted cargo barge from the past.  The barge features lots of windows and a white interior to give it an open feel.

Dining on the Deborah is in one sitting.  Breakfast is usually a buffet of fruits, cereals, and pastries as well as meats and cheese.  Lunch has a buffet and served food.  Dinner is a served meal featuring regional wines paired with the meal and regional cheeses.  For travelers with special dietary needs, the barge chef can accommodate most requests.   Check out our dining video on sister ship Raymond.

For more information or to check availability, please contact us at www.europeanbarging.com  or jan@europeanbarging.com or 888-869-7907.

Rhine and Mosel Wine Cruise hosted by Texas Winery – Messina Hof

Europeanbarging Presents a German Wine Cruise From November 7 – 14, 2023.

Mosel Riv

Europeanbarging, announced a SPECIAL DISCOUNT of $2500 per cabin on a Wine Cruise for its clients, slated for late fall, starting from November 7 to 14, 2023. Discounted rates start at $2249 per person.

The cruise, scheduled on the AMA Prima ship will be hosted by the owners of Messina Hof Winery – Paul and Merrill Bonarrigo, who will offer several tastings and discussions on their wines and winery, as well as wine making. A pairing of their wines will be offered with a special AmaWaterways gourmet meal. In addition to the many wine themed excursions, there are multiple included excursions offered in each port, including hiking and cycling tours. This will be the sixth wine cruise that Paul and Merrill have hosted with AmaWaterways.

From the Medieval towns of Nuremberg, Bamberg, Wurzburg and Wertheim, on the meandering Main to the UNESCO-designated Upper Middle Rhine Valley and Rhine Gorge with its multitude of castles dotting its shores to the vineyard-clad hills – flowing past the wine villages of Cochem, Zell and Trier on the Mosel, before ending the cruise in Luxembourg. Enjoy Europe at its most picturesque during this fall itinerary. Savor the many flavors of Germany with a chance to sample the world-famous wines of the Rheingau and the hearty smoked beer of Bamberg.

Messina Hof is the most awarded and renowned Texas wine in national and international competitions. In a community steeped in tradition, Messina Hof Winery & Resort holds its own with a 200-year history of award-winning wines. Although the winery itself was officially established with the first vintage release in 1983, the rich wine heritage of Winemaker Paul Bonarrigo dates back six generations to Messina, Sicily. Merrill Bonarrigo’s family originates from Hof, Germany. Together they have pioneered the Texas wine industry in creating premium wines of distinction and a landmark wine country destination.

There is an optional pre cruise land program to Prague, Czech Republic and a post cruise land program to Champagne France. There will also be a special pre cruise land program to Hof Germany offered – more details later.

Cruise rate includes all sightseeing, meals, wine with dinner, daily happy hour before dinner, free internet, use of bicycles on board. The special $1250 per person discount offer ends December 30, 2021. Port tax an additional $210 per person. Deposit of $400 per person due with booking, balance due 90 days before departure. Payment plan available.

Europeanbarging was founded in 1998 and specializes in European barge and river cruise products. Located in Texas, Europeanbarging is an ARC accredited company. AmaWaterways, the only cruise line that has the privileged of being inducted into La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, one of the world most prestigious culinary organizations and Tables et Auberges, leading the way in the cruise industry as one of the most innovative food and wine experiences both on-board and on-shore.

For more information contact Europeanbarging at: 888-869-7907 or http://www.europeanbarging.com