Czech Republic 2026 – Traditions of our culture and Czech folklore
Dates: 10 – 24 August 2026
Vienna (Austria) – Prague – Brno – České Budějovice – Český Krumlov – Písek – Kutná Hora –
Hluboká nad Vltavou – Červený Kostelec – Hradec Králové – Dresden (Germany)
Castle Tours & Sightseeing | Traditional Dance Workshops | Festival Performances |
Cultural Experiences
Cultural Program:
Enjoy the Master class in Czech folk dance of the Moravia region.
Showcase your cultural heritage at:
⭐ Harmony Waves International Cultures Festival Brno, Moravia ⭐
⭐ International Folklore Festival Písek Under the auspices of IOV (International Organisation of Folk Art) ⭐
⭐ 72nd International Folklore Festival Červený Kostelec • Established in the 1950s ⭐
⭐ 37th International Folklore Festival Hradec Králové • FS Kvítek (Optional) ⭐
About the Cultural Value of the Program
Harmony Waves International Cultures Project offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Central Europe through international cultural exchange. This program bringstogether participants from different countries to study, preserve, and promote traditional folklore and
folk art. The journey through the Czech Republic will become a true bridge between cultures, where each participant will not only discover Czech raditions, music, and dance but also share their own cultural heritage at international festivals.
This program goes beyond a typical tourist itinerary—it is an educational and creative experience that includes master classes in Czech folk dance, participation in prestigious international folklore festivals, and meaningful interactions with representatives of various cultures. Through joint performances, exchange of experience, and study of traditions, we strengthen international connections and contribute to preserving the cultural diversity of our world.
Czech Castles – Living History in Stone
The Czech Republic boasts one of the most impressive collections of castles and fortresses in Europe—over 2,000 castles, palaces, and fortifications are located on its territory, many of which are beautifully preserved and open to visitors. Each castle is a unique page of history, an architectural masterpiece reflecting different eras from the Middle Ages to 19th-century Romanticism.
From formidable Gothic fortresses like Špilberk to exquisite Renaissance residences such as Telč Castle, and fairytale Neo-Gothic palaces like Hluboká Castle—Czech castles captivate the imagination with their diversity and grandeur. Many are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and house priceless collections of art, antique furniture, and historical artifacts.
Moravian Wine – Winemaking Traditions
Moravia, the eastern region of the Czech Republic with its capital in Brno, is the heart of Czech winemaking. Thanks to favorable climate and fertile soils, outstanding white and red wines are produced here, gaining international recognition. Moravian winemaking traditions span over two thousand years,
and local wine cellars and castle wineries offer unforgettable tastings in historic settings.
Czech Beer – The Nation’s Liquid Gold
The Czech Republic is rightfully considered the beer capital of the world—it is the birthplace of the legendary Pilsner beer and the world-famous Budweiser Budvar. Czechs rank first in the world in beer consumption per capita, and brewing here has been elevated to an art form and a source of national pride. Visiting historic breweries and tasting local varieties is an integral part of experiencing Czech culture and traditions.
Tour Program
Day 1 | Monday, August 10: Arrival in Vienna or Prague (Meals: -/-/D)
Welcome to the Czech Republic!
Arrival at Vienna or Prague Airport. Meet your group with a comfortable tourist coach and departure to Brno—the second-largest city in the Czech Republic and the historic capital of Moravia.
Check-in at OREA Congress Hotel Brno 4* — a modern hotel with excellent facilities, conveniently located near the historic city center. https://www.orea.cz/en/hotel-congress
Dinner at the hotel.
Evening bus and walking tour of Brno. Introduction to a city that combines rich historical heritage with a modern dynamic atmosphere. You will see the city’s main attractions: Freedom Square with its Baroque and Renaissance buildings, the Gothic Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul on Petrov Hill, and the Old Town Hall with its medieval tower. Brno is known for its functionalist architecture, including Villa Tugendhat—a masterpiece by architect Mies van der Rohe, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day 2 | Tuesday, August 11: Brno – Vienna (Meals: B/-/D)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Departure to Vienna (Austria)—the imperial capital with over 2,000 years of history, a city of music, art, and magnificent palaces.
Bus and walking tour of Vienna. You will discover the majestic attractions of the Austrian capital: Hofburg—the winter residence of the Habsburgs, the famous Vienna State Opera—one of the world’s leading opera houses, aria-Theresien-Platz with its museum complex, St. Stephen’s Cathedral—the symbol of the city, and the magnificent Belvedere Palace. Vienna is a city where every street breathes history, and the architecture tells stories of the mighty Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Free time. Opportunity to try famous Austrian dishes: classic Viennese schnitzel made from veal in golden breadcrumbs, apple strudel, and the legendary Sacher torte—a chocolate dessert with apricot jam, created in 1832.
On the way back to Brno—tasting of renowned Moravian wine at Valtice Castle. The Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is famous for its historic wine cellars. Here you will learn about Moravian winemaking traditions and taste the finest local wines: aromatic white varieties (Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc) and full-bodied reds (Zweigelt, Blaufränkisch).
Return to the hotel. Dinner.
Day 3 | Wednesday, August 12: Brno – Harmony Waves International
Cultures Festival (Meals: B/-/D)
Breakfast at the hotel
Excursion to Špilberk Castle. This medieval castle-fortress, towering over the city of Brno, was built in the 13th century and served for centuries as a royal residence, Baroque fortress, and later as an infamous prison. Today, the castle houses the Brno City Museum with rich historical exhibitions. From the fortress walls, there is an impressive panoramic view of the entire city and surroundings.
🎭 CULTURAL PROGRAM: Master class in Czech folk dance of the Moravia region.
Participants will immerse themselves in the world of traditional Moravian folklore under the guidance of professional choreographers. Moravian dances are distinguished by their special energy, complex rhythmic patterns, and vibrant costumes. You will learn the characteristic elements of such dances as verbunk, odzemek, and polka, as well as become familiar with the features of musical accompaniment on traditional instruments.
PREPARATION FOR THE HARMONY WAVES INTERNATIONAL CULTURES FESTIVAL IN BRNO.
Rehearsals, program refinement, meeting other participants of the international festival. This is an important day of cultural exchange when dance ensembles from around the world prepare to present their national traditions on the big stage.
Dinner at the hotel.
Day 4 | Thursday, August 13: Free Day (Meals: B/-/D)
Breakfast at the hotel. Check-out.
Departure to the town of Telč—a jewel of the Czech Renaissance. This small town in the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its exceptionally well-preserved historic square and Renaissance castle.
Excursion to Telč Castle. Originally a Gothic fortress, it was rebuilt in the 16th century into a luxurious Renaissance residence with richly decorated interiors, painted ceilings, and a unique collection of antique weapons. The castle is surrounded by an English park and picturesque ponds.
Free time in town. Stroll through the famous Market Square of Telč, urrounded by colorful burgher houses with arcades and Renaissance and Baroque facades. This is one of the most photogenic squares in Europe, creating a sense of time travel.
Departure to České Budějovice—the historic center of South Bohemia and birthplace of the legendary Budweiser beer.
Check-in at Clarion Congress Hotel České Budějovice 4**—a modern hotel with excellent service in the city center. https://www.clarioncongresshotelceskebudejovice.com/en/
Dinner. Free time.
Day 5 | Friday, August 14: Free Day (Meals: B/-/D)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Excursion to Budweiser Budvar Brewery with beer tasting. https://www.budejovickybudvar.cz/en/home
Visit one of the most famous breweries in the Czech Republic, founded in 1895. You will learn about thehistory of brewing in South Bohemia, see the production process of the famous lager using traditionalrecipes with only natural ingredients (Moravian barley, Saaz hops, and artesian water), and taste variousvarieties of fresh unfiltered beer right at the brewery. Budweiser Budvar is exported to over 70 countries worldwide and is a source of Czech brewing pride.
Excursion to the town of Český Krumlov—one of the most beautiful towns in Europe, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This medieval town, located in a picturesque bend of the Vltava River, seems frozen in time. You will see the magnificent Český Krumlov Castle—the second-largest castle complex in the Czech Republicafter Prague Castle, with its unique Baroque theater from the 18th century, preserved in its originalstate. Walking through the narrow cobblestone streets of the old town, viewing the Gothic Church of St.Vitus, and visiting viewpoints with panoramic views of red-tiled roofs and river bends will create unforgettable impressions.
Free time. Opportunity to visit local craft shops, try traditional Czech cuisine in historic restaurants, or stroll through the castle park.
Return to the hotel. Dinner.
Day 6 | Saturday, August 15: Free Day (Meals: B/-/D)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Walking tour of the historic center of České Budějovice. Introduction to one of the largest medieval squares in Europe—Přemysl Otakar II Square, surrounded by magnificent Baroque and Renaissance buildings. View the Black Tower (Černá věž), 72 meters high—the symbol of the city, offering a stunning view of South Bohemia, the Gothic Dominican monastery, and the historic Town Hall with gargoyles.
Lunch at the hotel.
PARTICIPATION IN THE INTERNATIONAL FOLKLORE FESTIVAL IN PÍSEK—approximately 70 km from České Budějovice. https://iov.world/international-folklore-festival-pisek/
This is one of the prestigious international folklore festivals in the Czech Republic, held under the auspices of the International Organisation of Folk Art (IOV). The festival brings together dance and music ensembles from around the world to present traditional folk art. Participants perform at various venues throughout the town of Písek, including the main stage on the historic square, where thousands of spectators can enjoy colorful performances in national costumes. This is an excellent opportunity not only to showcase your culture but also to learn about the folkloric traditions of other nations, exchange experiences, and forge international friendships.
Return to the hotel.
Day 7 | Sunday, August 16: (Meals: B/-/D)
Breakfast at the hotel. Check-out.
Excursion to Hluboká nad Vltavou Castle—a true masterpiece of Romantic architecture.
This fairytale white castle, styled after England’s Windsor Castle, is considered one of the most beautiful castles in the Czech Republic and an outstanding monument of Romanticism on a European and world scale. Built in the 13th century as a Gothic fortress, the castle was completely rebuilt in the 19th century in Neo-Gothic style for the Schwarzenberg family. The luxurious interiors are decorated with carved wooden paneling, rich fabrics, weapons collections, and Flemish tapestries. The castle is surrounded by
an extensive English park with centuries-old trees, ponds, and romantic pavilions. Due to its scale, character, original furnishings, and magnificent park, Hluboká is one of the most significant Romantic monuments in European and world context.
Departure to Prague—the golden-spired capital of the Czech Republic, the “City of a Hundred Spires,”and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.
Check-in at Praha TOP HOTEL—a comfortable hotel with a convenient location in Prague. https://www.tophotel.cz/en/
Dinner.
Evening walk through Prague. First encounter with the magic of the capital—a stroll through the evening streets with their romantic lighting, bridges over the Vltava, and medieval towers. Evening
Prague is especially beautiful when historic buildings are illuminated and the city is immersed in the atmosphere of an ancient fairy tale.
Day 8 | Monday, August 17: (Meals: B/-/D)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Bus and walking excursion to Prague Castle (Pražský hrad)—the largest ancient castle complex in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records.
This monumental complex, founded in the 9th century, has been the residence of Czech kings and HolyRoman Emperors for enturies, and today serves as the residence of the President of the Czech Republic.The tour includes a visit to the magnificent Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral—the spiritual symbol of the Czech nation, with its stunning stained glass windows by Alfons Mucha, the royal crypt, and the Chapel of St.Wenceslas, decorated with semi-precious stones. You will walk along Golden Lane with its tiny colorful houses where alchemists and jewelers once lived (and in the 20th century, writer Franz Kafka), visit the Old Royal Palace with its grand Vladislav Hall, and see St. George’s Basilica—the oldest surviving church
in Prague.
Visit to a historic brewery. Introduction to Prague brewing traditions and tasting of local beer varieties in an authentic atmosphere.
Dinner at the hotel.
Day 9 | Tuesday, August 18: Free Day (Meals: B/-/D)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Guided excursion to Křivoklát Castle. https://www.hrad-krivoklat.cz/cs
One of the oldest and most significant Gothic castles in the Czech Republic, located in a picturesque forest area 50 km from Prague. This royal castle was built in the 13th century and served as a hunting residence for Czech kings, as well as a place of confinement for noble prisoners. The castle is famous for
its magnificent Gothic chapel with a unique altar and rich collection of Gothic paintings, a knights’ hall with impressive vaults, a medieval library with 52,000 volumes, and a torture museum. Křivoklát is surrounded by the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Return to Prague.
Walking tour of the Old Town (Staré Město). Stroll through the heart of historic Prague: Old Town Square with its famous Astronomical Clock (Orloj) from the 15th century, the Gothic Týn Church with its characteristic twin towers, the Jan Hus Monument, and the Baroque St. Nicholas Church. You will walk through narrow medieval streets, see Celetná—one of the oldest streets in the city, the House at the Stone Bell, and other architectural treasures.
Free time. Opportunity for independent walks, shopping, or visiting numerous cafés and restaurants.
Dinner at the hotel.
Day 10 | Wednesday, August 19: (Meals: B/-/D)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Rehearsals, master class in Czech folk dance.
Continuation of studying Czech folklore traditions under the guidance of professional choreographers. In-depth work on technique, style, and character of Czech folk dances, preparation for festival performances.
Lunch at the hotel.
Panoramic bus tour of Prague. Introduction to various districts of the capital, each with its unique atmosphere and history.
Vyšehrad Castle—a legendary fortress on a rock above the Vltava, connected with the mythical founding of Prague. According to legend, it was here that Princess Libuše predicted the great future of the city. Vyšehrad features the Romanesque Rotunda of St. Martin (11th century), the Neo-Gothic Basilica of St. Peter and Paul, and Vyšehrad Cemetery—a pantheon of outstanding Czech cultural figures, where composers Dvořák and Smetana, writers Karel Čapek and Jan Neruda, and artist Alfons Mucha are buried.
Petřín Tower (Petřínská rozhledna)—a 63-meter observation tower on Petřín Hill, built in 1891 modeled after the Eiffel Tower. From the top of the tower, there is a breathtaking panorama of the entire city with its red roofs, church spires, and bends of the Vltava.
Free time in the Old Town.
Czech beer tasting. Visit to one of Prague’s historic beer halls, where you can try various types of Czech beer—from light lager to dark and specialty varieties—and learn about the beer culture of a country where beer is an integral part of national identity.
Day 11 | Thursday, August 20: (Meals: B/-/D)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Excursion to the town of Kutná Hora—a historic town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, which in the Middle Ages was one of the richest towns in Europe thanks to silver mines
St. Barbara’s Cathedral (Chrám svaté Barbory)—an outstanding masterpiece of late Gothic architecture, built over 500 years (from 1388 to 1905). This magnificent cathedral with its unique flower-shaped vaults and stained glass windows is dedicated to the patron saint of miners. The interior is decorated with medieval frescoes depicting city life and work in the mines.
Sedlec Ossuary (Kostnice v Sedlci)—a world-famous Gothic chapel whose interior is entirely decorated with human bones. This is a unique art object from the 17th-19th centuries, where chandeliers, coats of arms, ornaments, and even the artist’s signature are created from bones. The ossuary contains the remains of approximately 40,000-70,000 people and is one of the most unusual monuments in Europe.
🎪 PARTICIPATION IN THE 72ND INTERNATIONAL FOLKLORE FESTIVAL IN ČERVENÝ KOSTELEC. https://www.folklorck.cz/
This is one of the oldest and most prestigious folklore festivals in the Czech Republic, held since the 1950s. The festival brings together dance ensembles and music groups from all continents to celebrate cultural diversity through traditional folk art. Participation in this festival is a great honor and an opportunity to present your culture to an international audience, as well as establish creative
connections with ensembles from different countries.
Performances take place at open venues throughout the town, creating a festive atmosphere of cultural unity. Return to TOP Hotel, dinner.
Day 12 | Friday, August 21: (Meals: B/-/D)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Free day. Time for rest and independent walks around Prague, shopping, or visiting additional attractions of your choice.
Optional program (for an additional fee):
● Participation in the International Folklore Festival in Hradec Králové — “FS Kvítek Hradec
Králové organizes the 37th International Folklore Festival.” https://setkanisfolklorem.cz/
● Shopping organization—visit to Prague’s shopping streets (Na Příkopě, Pařížská Street) with boutiques of Czech and international brands, Bohemian crystal shops, garnet jewelry, and
traditional Czech souvenirs.
● Beer SPA center visit https://www.beerspa-beerland.com/en/prague-new-town/—a unique
procedure combining brewing traditions with wellness. A bath in beer with hops and malt has beneficial effects on the skin, relaxes, and provides unusual sensations. The package also includes unlimited fresh beer consumption.
Dinner at the hotel.
Day 13 | Saturday, August 22: (Meals: B/-/D)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Excursion to Dresden (Germany)—approximately 150 km from Prague. Dresden, the capital of Saxony, is known as the “Florence on the Elbe” thanks to its outstanding Baroque architecture and richest art collections. Despite destruction during World War II, the city was carefully restored and regained its magnificence.
The excursion includes viewing the main attractions: Zwinger—a Baroque palace complex from the 18th century with its famous pavilions and fountains, Semperoper—one of the most beautiful opera houses in Europe, Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady)—the symbol of the city with its monumental dome, restored from ruins, the Catholic Court Church, Brühl’s Terrace—the “Balcony of Europe” overlooking the Elbe, and the Residenzschloss with its famous “Procession of Princes” panel made of 25,000 Meissen porcelain tiles.
Optional—visit to the Dresden Picture Gallery (Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister) with a professional guide. https://gemaeldegalerie.skd.museum/en/
This is one of the most significant art galleries in the world, housing a unique collection of European paintings from the 15th-18th centuries. The museum’s crown jewel is Raphael’s “Sistine Madonna” (1512-1513)—one of the most famous works of world art, an embodiment of the ideal of motherhood and divine beauty. The collection also features masterpieces by Titian, Giorgione, Correggio, Rembrandt, Vermeer, Rubens, Van Dyck, and other great masters.
Return to the hotel. Dinner.
Day 14 | Sunday, August 23: (Meals: B/-/D)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Free time. The last day in Prague—an opportunity for independent walks through favorite places, souvenir shopping, museum visits, or simply enjoying the atmosphere of this magical city. You can stroll across Charles Bridge—Prague’s most famous bridge, adorned with 30 statues of saints, visit the Jewish Quarter (Josefov) with its synagogues and ancient cemetery, or climb to one of the viewpoints for a final look at the “City of a Hundred Spires.”
Farewell dinner cruise on the Vltava River with local musicians.
A ceremonial finale to the cultural program—a romantic cruise on the Vltava with dinner and live music. From the deck, unforgettable views of evening Prague open up: the illuminated Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, National Theatre, Dancing House, and other landmarks. Local musicians will perform traditional Czech music and popular melodies, creating a warm atmosphere of farewell to this beautiful country and new friends made during the cultural exchange.
Day 15 | Monday, August 24: (Meals: B/-/D)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer to Prague Airport. Departure home with a wealth of unforgettable impressions, new knowledge about Czech culture, and the experience of international cultural exchange.
Information about the tour
Minimum group size: 40 people. With fewer participants, the price will be recalculated.
During the program preparation period, changes are possible and will be coordinated with the group members.
If necessary, the number of days and meals can be changed according to the group’s wishes.
Approximately two weeks before the start of the tour, an hourly program will be drawn up for the group.
Custom Quotes Upon Request
We believe in transparent, bespoke pricing. Your tour investment is determined by the number of participants and your selected level of production support. Please reach out with your group details, and we will provide a comprehensive quote tailored to your vision.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
⚠️ LUGGAGE: Each festival participant may have no more than 1 large suitcase + carry-on luggage + costume bag. In case of excess luggage that does not fit in the bus luggage compartment, the ensemble must pay for additional transport to carry the luggage throughout the route.
TO REGISTER, YOU NEED:
📋 Documents:
● Professional photo and video promotional materials of the ensemble (for placement in
festival programs)
● Completed participant questionnaire
💳 Payment schedule:
● 20% of the total cost—down payment upon contract signing
● 30% of the total cost—6 months before the start of the trip
● 50% of the total cost—2 months before the start of the trip
