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Tomaz Martinek

11872 messages · active 13 hours ago

Reviews for Grand Cuvée Tours

4.8

50 Reviews

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Grand Cuvée Tours

Tomaz Martinek and Mojca Peterka opened our own travel company in 2006 dedicated to selling tours to Central Europe and Balkan countries. From the pioneering days we have worked hard to gain high quality and impressive wide knowledge of different services and exclusive offers for all countries of Central Europe and further to the south along the Balkan area. Our services reflect high-quality, exclusive services which deliver real value to our clients.

Grand Cuvée Tours is part of the following groups: Czech Republic Travel Agents, Germany Travel Agents, Hungary Travel Agents

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Recent Trip Reviews for Grand Cuvée Tours

Cote d'Azur trip 2024
Italy | Sep 13 - Sep 19, 2024

Claudio A.

Woodrow, NY | Reviewed on Dec 02, 2024

Our trip to the Cote d'Azur, just like our trip to Paris last year, was better than anticipated. So many beautiful views, so many art masterpieces, so much history.
In addition, the hotels were clean, comfortable and conveniently located.
Everyone involved in our trip was tremendously cordial and knowledgeable. From the hotels’ staff, to the tour guides, to the drivers. Plus, we had some wonderful food, especially delicious seafood. We saw so many beautiful sights, too many to list... Read more

Local specialist: Tomaz Martinek

Tomaz Martinek

Local specialist in Slovenia | Replied on Dec 03, 2024

Thank you for your kind review! We’re delighted your trip to the Côte d’Azur exceeded expectations, with its stunning views, rich history, and excellent service. Unique highlights like the Cosquer Cave and Port Grimaud sound unforgettable. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to planning your next adventure!

Read all Italy reviews

We had a wonderful time in Slovenia .
Slovenia | Oct 13 - Oct 18, 2024

Lesley J.

United Kingdom | Reviewed on Oct 22, 2024

After initial correspondence with Tomaz, Grand Cuvée Tours put together a great itinerary, both making suggestions and taking on board any requests that we had. Any queries were answered promptly. We ended up with a trip that was exactly what we hoped for. There were days free for us to explore Bled at the start and Ljubljana at the end. In both locations we were given advice on activities and advance bookings were made for us for boat trips. This was particularly useful in Bled where boats to the island were otherwise full with tour groups. We were lucky that Vintgar Gorge was still open and was well worth a visit. We also enjoyed the funicular up to the castle in Ljubljana which was fascinating to explore.
For two days in the middle of our short holiday we had a brilliant driver, Urh, who couldn't be faulted. The drive through the mountains to Kranjska Gora was breathtaking with the added bonus of wall to wall sunshine and fabulous autumn colours. We continued to Velika Korita in the Soca Valley which was equally stunning. The crystal clear turquoise water in both places was beautiful. We also experienced delicious cheese and wine tasting stops on our journey to Piran on the coast. We had the morning to explore Piran before Urh drove us to Ljubljana via stops at the extraordinary Skocjan Caves and then Kobilarna Lipica to see the white horses at the Lipizzaner stud.
All three of our hotels (3star boutique) had helpful and friendly staff, were in great locations and were very comfortable.
All in all a fantastic job by everyone involved.

Hotel Reviews

Garni Hotel Berc

Bled

Very comfortable hotel in a great location, only a few minutes walk from the lake. Great breakfast buffet. Friendly and helpful staff. Added bonus of self-service tea and coffee round the clock.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Art Hotel Tartini

Piran

A very comfortable hotel in a great location overlooking the main plaza and a stone's throw from the harbour. Friendly and helpful staff. Good buffet breakfast. A slight issue with the plumbing in our room was dealt with swiftly.

Authenticity & Character

Quirky artwork throughout the hotel gave it a special feel.

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Slamič

Ljubljana

A very comfortable hotel with only a short walk to the city centre and riverside. Friendly and helpful staff. A La Carte breakfast, ordered the night before. Bistro incorporated so that food and drinks were available to purchase throughout the day.

Authenticity & Character

The bistro in particular had a lovely feel.

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Bovec Cheese Tasting

Bovec

Great to taste unique sheep's cheese where it was produced. Slight issue with over friendly wasps - obviously not something that could really be avoided given the time of year.

Wine tasting in Goriska Brda

Goriška Brda

Fabulous wine in a lovely location. Interesting tour of the cellars and production area. Delicious food to go with the wine.

Lipica Stud Farm

Sezana

We were lucky to be the only visitors on the tour. Our guide was clearly passionate about the horses and we learnt a lot from her. It was fortunate that we saw the mares and foals returning to the stables at the end of the afternoon as our visit was late in the season and we weren't able to see a show or any stallions out training. We did get lovely close-up views of horses in their stalls.

Ljubljanica River Boat Ride

Ljubljana

A very relaxing way to see more of the city. No commentary on the trip.

Pletna boat ride

Bled

A lovely way to get to the island. Nice to ride on a traditional boat. Time was limited to 45mins on the island and it would have been nice to have had longer as there was quite a lot to see.

Local specialist: Tomaz Martinek

Tomaz Martinek

Local specialist in Slovenia | Replied on Nov 04, 2024

Thank you, Lesley, for your kind review! We really look forward to the next time we can welcome you in Slovenia, or even plan a different trip in the region for you. It is wonderful to hear that you enjoyed your trip so much!

Read all Slovenia reviews

Too little too late
Austria | Sep 22 - Oct 2, 2024

margaret m.

Bellaire, TX | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2024

We employed Kimkim's services because of its use of local talent to provide the best experience when touring a foreign city and country. We had an incredible trip with Kimkim to Athens. We expected the same level of concern to planning and detail on our just completed trip to Austria and Poland. That was NOT the case. When we arrived in Vienna, our private trasport driver was nowhere to be found. We circled the arrival hall multiple times. We utilized one of our Verizon cell phone travel passes to call the driver's cell (provided in itinerary). We finally located him and headed to our hotel, K+K Maria Theresia to freshen up after a long flight. The toilet in the room malfunctioned and the bathroom had no soap. We called the front desk and were told that the toilet had just been repaired with the wrong part so would not stop flushing and that soap would be provided. We checked out the following morning and boarded our OBB train from Vienna to Krakow- all according to our Kimkim itinerary. The Austrian conductor scanned our tickets and gave NO indication that there were any issues with the journey. Our tickets were scanned again by a Czech Republic conductor once the train crossed the border. Again nothing was said regarding the journey. When the train reached Hranice, the conductor announced that our journey has ENDED. He told us that due track damage, the OBB train would terminate at Hranice. Using very limited English he told us to try to find a local train or bus to either Bohumin or Ostrava but BEWARE because "bad people will try to cheat or steal from you." We were horrified. We had no roaming cell service so the "emergency kim kim number " was useless. We made our way into the train station and found the Regiojet desk. NO ONE spoke a word of English or German and they responded to all of our questions with "NO." We consulted the posted time tables and found a Regiojet train to Ostrava and purchased two tickets ($8.74). We also found a Regiojet bus from Ostrava to Krakow ($78). We had to take a taxi from the Ostrava train station to the bus station ( $10.90). We bribed a bus station guard to allow us to use the pay toilet (We had NO Czech coins) with a 5 Euro note. We managed to get to Krakow by bus with absolutely NO ONE from Kimkim or Grand Cuvee tours aware of the situation. We realize that the local arrangement staff is not responsible for weather related issues HOWEVER, the damage to the tracks was known in Vienna and in the Czech Republic. The only ones in the dark were the unsuspecting passengers who boarded the train. Our time in Krakow was not arranged by Kimkim and went flawlessly BUT OUR TRAVEL BACK to Vienna and onto Salzburg WAS. I contacted Grand Cuvee repeatedly because we were told by our Polish contacts that the OBB train to Vienna would not run. It was NOT until the evening before our scheduled 9/27 departure from Krakow to Vienna that Grand Cuvee confirmed that we would not be able to take the train from Krakow to Vienna. At this point, a private transfer by car was the best option. I paid Kimkim an additional $1000.00 for the private car and driver. The driver (Maciek) was excellent. He deposited us safely at the Vienna central train station for our train trip to Salzburg. We waited in the OBB lounge where we learned that multiple trains from Vienna to Salzburg were either delayed or cancelled. The OBB desk attendant suggested that we take the next available train. Since our tickets were booked as first class we were able to board an earlier train to Salzburg. The Imlauer Hotel Pitter was lovely. I believe Grand Cuvee upgraded the room which was appreciated. Our walking tour guide, Ms Klinger was very good. The Mozard Dinner Concert as arranged by Grand Cuvee was fantastic. We took the train the next day to Vienna with no issues. We returned to the Maria Theresia, stored our luggage and embarked on a walking tour of Vienna with Mojca. I would give the guide a B-. The most effective guides are those who have an itinerary and are able to weave YOUR interests into their plan. Mojca did not explore our interests but moved somewhat haphazardly from one spot to the next. When we passed the Maria Theresia library and my husband discovered that the library was open free to the public because it was Sunday, Mojca relented and went in. It was one of the highlights of the tour no thanks to the guide. The Mozart and Straus concert at the Kursalon and the Schonbrunn palace tour scheduled by Grand Cuvee were excellent. The Danube Tower tour was so so. The Sisi Museum and Imperial Palace tours were excellent. The concert at St Anne's church as arranged was lovely. Our stay at the Maria Theresia went well. The amenities in the room were functional. The hotel staff was incredibly friendly and helpful. Our transfer to the airport with Herr Wolfgang was on time and pleasant.
After our trip to Athens with Kimkim, we not only recommended your services but could not wait to use them again. After this trip- we will have second thoughts about a repeat. Your strength is in the intel that your local agents provide. The local agents did not stay informed. The trip to Krakow was incredibly stressful. The uncertainty of the transfer from Krakow to Salzburg created constant anxiety. Why were we telling Grand Cuvee that the trains were in question?
We feel that we spent a significant amount of money and then had to spend MORE. We also feel that we did not get good value for our money. We asked Grand Cuvee to petition OBB for refunds for our train fares. They have but why did we need to ask. I feel that Kimkim should cover the additional train, bus, taxi and private car fares. The Grand Cuvee team did try to turn this trip around for us but it was too little too late.

Local specialist: Tomaz Martinek

Tomaz Martinek

Local specialist in Slovenia | Replied on Oct 18, 2024

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback on the trip. Regarding the challenges you faced during your trip, we regret that we were not made aware of these issues at the time. With several channels to reach us, including our emergency phone and email, we were always available to assist. However, our ability to provide support relies on being informed about any concerns during your travels. We encourage our travelers to reach out to us immediately so that we can resolve any... Read more

Several mistakes were made
Switzerland | Oct 3 - Oct 7, 2024

Joshua H.

Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Oct 10, 2024

I do not think I would this company again for future trips. While we had a mostly enjoyable vacation, there were several avoidable mistakes made for our trip to Switzerland. The initial issue was that our company waited for about four weeks after our deposit to arrange our hotel reservations. At this point, one of the hotels was full, so the company switched us to a different hotel. That hotel ended up being our least favorite, with stiff beds and no one at reception for much of the day. I... Read more

I do not think I would this company again for future trips. While we had a mostly enjoyable vacation, there were several avoidable mistakes made for our trip to Switzerland.

The initial issue was that our company waited for about four weeks after our deposit to arrange our hotel reservations. At this point, one of the hotels was full, so the company switched us to a different hotel. That hotel ended up being our least favorite, with stiff beds and no one at reception for much of the day. I believe it was the same tier hotel as the one quoted, but it begs the question as to why they delayed four weeks.

The second issue, which was much larger, was that they booked one hotel room for our trip when we had requested two. When I caught their mistake, the tour company’s response was that this was our fault, since we did not catch their mistake on their first itinerary. They wrote saying we needed to pay them an additional $1300 to get the second room. I had to call Kimkim to sort it out, and ultimately we received the two rooms that we had requested. However, this experience left a bad taste in our mouths given the initial response and having to argue about it. And for the record, follow-up communication from Kimkim was non-existent: I heard nothing from either company for a week while this was being resolved, which was stressful, and in fact never received a single follow-up from Kimkim about it at all.

The third issue was another attention-to-detail mistake. The tour company told us they made seat reservations for our train trip to Jungfrau, a popular tourist destination. This was written, in bold, on our itinerary. When we got to the station, we encountered hundreds of people, and we got stopped at the turnstiles and turned back for not having reservations at all. Two ticket attendants confirmed that we were holding non-reservation 2nd class tickets, and we were told to wait in line for the next available train with open seats. Long story short, our 1.5 hour trip took 3.5 hours, as we waited a full two hours in line, as train after train filled up with pre-reserved travelers and tour groups. This was a truly miserable experience.

My conclusion is that the time needed to double-check and correct the tour company’s mistakes could be better spent simply planning the trip on my own.

Activity Review

Funky chocolate workshop

Switzerland

This was an enjoyable experience. We learned a bit about chocolate, got to taste many varieties from dark to white chocolate and each made three chocolate bars.

Quality of Experience

This was a fun time.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

There was no guide or driver, so this rating isn't really for anything.

Transport

There was no transport.

Local specialist: Tomaz Martinek

Tomaz Martinek

Local specialist in Slovenia | Replied on Oct 18, 2024

Thank you for sharing your review of your recent trip to Switzerland. We appreciate your insights and understand the importance of precise communication, especially when multiple parties are involved.
We would like to clarify that, following your initial booking, we secured one room for your stay, as per the confirmed itinerary at that time. When we were later informed of your need for a second room, we worked closely with KimKim to find a solution that would be both accommodating and fair.... Read more

Switzerland on our own (with help from KimKim)!
Switzerland | Sep 14 - Sep 26, 2024

Robin F.

Rockville, CT | Reviewed on Oct 05, 2024

This was our second trip using KimKim. Tomaz and Zala helped us plan our amazing trip to Switzerland. Each day was an adventure! We went to the ‘Top of Europe’, explored ice caves, hiked down grassy mountainsides, rode e-bikes through the Lauderbrunnen Valley, watched the sunrise on the Matterhorn and the moonrise on Lake Lucerne. Our accommodations were really nice, with only 2 disappointing room selections (one was changed). The breakfasts provided were delicious with local meats, cheeses, eggs and fresh fruits and breads that kept us going all day (the champagne offering was over the top). We had never traveled exclusively by train and we were so appreciative that each train/funicular/tram journey was planned for us in great detail. Within a day we were completely comfortable with not using a car. We do not prefer group trips so our 13 day adventure was designed by Tomaz carefully to allow us to explore all the places and activities we enjoy. The was a trip one that we will always treasure. We have so, so many pictures!!

Hotel Reviews

Art Deco Hotel Montana

Luzern

This was our favorite hotel. The staff was wonderful and they changed our room from street view to balcony lake view. We shared a letter from 1966 when my husband’s mom and dad stayed there and raved about the accommodations and service. The staff at the Art Deco Montana were thrilled with this little piece of history and upgraded us to a most beautiful room as a thank you.

Authenticity & Character

This hotel has a grand location, overlooking Lake Lucerne. It was built in a time of elegance. The funicular from the lobby to the street was unique.

Location

Our initial room looked over the street in the back, but our upgrade was lakeside and lovely.

Staff

The staff was wonderful and called us “the letter people”. We felt welcomed.

Cleanliness & Comfort

So clean, and lovely quality in every respect.

Eiger Swiss Quality Hotel Mürren

Mürren

This hotel was welcoming and so very comfortable. Located directly across from the train station, it is especially easy for on-foot travellers. There was a champagne cocktail hour for guests which we enjoyed.

Authenticity & Character

The front desk was helpful and friendly.

Location

Located on a quiet street (no cars) at the top of the Lauderbrunnen Valley, how could it be any nicer?

Staff

One guest helped us figure out how to use the hotel washer and dryer. Many laughs.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Love the individual comforters, beautiful bath and balcony room.

Boutique Hotel Helmhaus

Zürich

Although clean and welcoming, our room was tiny and the bath was barely big enough for one person.

Location

Close enough to the train station for a quick trip to the airport. And an easy location for a walk about Zurich.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Stella Swiss Quality Hotel

This was off the main street, very clean and an excellent breakfast. This seemed like an older building, but nice and accommodating.

Alpen Resort Zermatt

Zermatt

Again, a balcony room with lovely views and easy for weary travellers to find.

Location

Zermatt is a lovely place to visit and this hotel was convenient for foot-travellers.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Reine Victoria 4*

St. Moritz

After the long Glacier Express train we were happy to arrive in St. Moritz. We were again overlooking the lake and mountains in a beautiful room. The hotel was elegant.

Location

In town, convenient, great food.

Staff

The last morning we arrived for breakfast to find the dining room filled with bus groups. The staff did their best to help everyone but they were overwhelmed. We still had a nice breakfast.

Angleterre & Résidence

Lausanne

This was a clean hotel, with beautiful view. The room was fine, and comfortable. However the water in the shower was hot-cold-hot. The staff was notified and basically did not help us.

Location

Nice location, easy walk from the train. Lots of guests.

Staff

Helpful, friendly.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Local specialist: Tomaz Martinek

Tomaz Martinek

Local specialist in Slovenia | Replied on Oct 18, 2024

Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review. We’re happy to hear that our team helped make your second trip with KimKim such an amazing adventure. From mountain peaks to train travel, it sounds like you had incredible experiences, and we’re glad our planning made your trip smooth and stress-free. Those amazing memories will last a lifetime, and we love that you have so many pictures to look back on—what better souvenirs could there be?

Read all Switzerland reviews

Austria & Germany
Austria | Sep 2 - Sep 12, 2024

Karen C.

Sarasota, FL | Reviewed on Sep 16, 2024

When we started the thoughts of going to Austria I reached out to a company ( KimKim) that I never heard of. It took us awhile to finally say yes we’re using this company. Tomaz was very patient with me while we made our decision to use them. Once we made the decision Tomaz was wonderful picking out places to see and places to stay at. We had 4 of us that were traveling. . We flew into Vienna and stayed a few days then picked up a rental car and drove to Salzburg & Hallstatt. We stayed there for a few days & on to Munich for a few more days. Tomaz was so good at giving suggestions of sites to see. We were then handed off to Zala who made the reservations for hotels and sites to see. She did a great job of putting together the times, directions to the places and all the tickets. Directions were easy to follow and we never felt lost. Every thing we saw was amazing. She was always responsive to my emails that I sent her frequently throughout the trip. The only complaints we had were the hotels. While they were in great locations and nice places to stay they were not our idea of 5 star as we requested. Rooms were small and only queen size beds. My suggestion would be to throughly review your documents on the hotels. We had to upgrade in Vienna, at our expense. And in Munich they had king size beds but our agent did not book this. The hotel was fully booked so we could not get an up grade. Our room was so small and no mirror in the room, not even a chair to sit on the do my hair or makeup. Our friends who traveled with us got a larger room. Still only a queen size bed. Both the men in our group were over 6”. So check your reservation’s thoroughly. We would give this company a 5star. But go over your itinerary really closely because we probably could have had things done differently with the hotels. Thank KimKim for a wonderful vacation.

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Sans Souci Wien

Vienna

Super terrific hotel. Beautiful place and great location. The staff was always eager to help in any way they could. The man who helped us the first day with our luggage was visible through out our stay. Always eager to please and help. . The restaurant was wonderful. We mostly ate there because the food was spectacular.

Authenticity & Character

It was a very lovely place all around.

Location

Easy to walk to everything.

Staff

The bell hop. The desk crew. The restaurant staff.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Super immaculate.

LOUIS Hotel

München

The location was the best of this hotel. Outstanding complimentary breakfasts. Rooms were very small and not accommodating for luggage placement or dressing and makeup area.

Authenticity & Character

Larger rooms

Location

Walk out the hotel and there is a fresh market everyday. City center is right there.

Staff

Average

Cleanliness & Comfort

Larger room. Make up area, mirror.

Activity Reviews

Guided Tour of the Historic Center of Vienna

Vienna

Maria was a wonderful guide. She knows her Vienna.

Quality of Experience

My special place was the Spanish Riding School

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Maria who did the walking tour

Spanish riding school performance

Vienna

We had front row seats and watched as these beautiful horses and riders went thru their paces. The school is in the middle of the city. My favorite thing to see.

Quality of Experience

Both horses and riders

Guided private walking tour of Hallstatt

Austria

Our guide Lisa was so sweet and gave us a wonderful tour of this quaint place.

Quality of Experience

Such a beautiful place nestled between the mountains.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Lisa was a delight.

Hallstatt Salt Mine

Austria

To think they found this mine high in the mountains all those years ago. Very interesting how they mined the salt. It’s a terrific ride up the funicular and see the view from up there. Our guide was informative and our group was not too large.

Quality of Experience

A must see place.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

She really knew the history of the mines and guided us thru easily

Transport

Riding up the funicular beautiful

Castle with fortress above Salzburg

Salzburg

Lots of things to see in this castle on the mountain. Great views of the city.

Quality of Experience

Zwölftenhorn Cable car St. Gilgen

Salzburg

Beautiful exhilarating walk once you ride up the cable car. OMG the views are spectacular. Watching all the hang gliders jump off the top was exciting. It was a Sunday morning and there was a special religious service on the very top. Everyone was dressed in tradition dress.

Quality of Experience

Unbelievable place to see. I could live there.

Hellbrun Palace

Salzburg

It’s a very special place. Lots of unexpected shooting water. The king had a terrific sense of humor. All the features are still working. The sculptures are so unique. We had a rainy day but brought an umbrella. Once in the castle you were high and dry. Lots of things to see and hear about. We used the whisper to take a tour.

Quality of Experience

All the quirky fountains.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Everyone had a smile on there faces and happy you came.

Local specialist: Tomaz Martinek

Show 19 more photos

Tomaz Martinek

Local specialist in Slovenia | Replied on Sep 17, 2024

Hi Karen, Thank you for your thoughtful review! We're delighted you had a wonderful trip exploring Austria and Germany. Your feedback is valuable and we're glad you enjoyed your journey. Thank you for choosing KimKim, and we hope to help plan another fantastic trip for you soon!

Great retirement trip
Czech Republic | Sep 1 - Sep 10, 2024

Elizabeth H.

Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Sep 11, 2024

Overall, we had a fabulous trip. Our driver and guide, Lenka in Prague is amazing. I wish she could have stayed with us for the entire trip!!
Our hotels in Prague (Rott) and in Budapest (Moments) were both fantastic. We didn't like our hotel in Vienna as much. It wasn't as convenient as the other two and the rooms were not as nice. Our drivers in Budapest were great. (Gergo and Gyula) and tour guide (Tibi) was fabulous as well. Kimkim made the process very easy and I would... Read more

Overall, we had a fabulous trip.

Our driver and guide, Lenka in Prague is amazing. I wish she could have stayed with us for the entire trip!!
Our hotels in Prague (Rott) and in Budapest (Moments) were both fantastic. We didn't like our hotel in Vienna as much. It wasn't as convenient as the other two and the rooms were not as nice. Our drivers in Budapest were great. (Gergo and Gyula) and tour guide (Tibi) was fabulous as well.

Kimkim made the process very easy and I would use them again.

Hotel Review

Hotel Rott

Prague

We loved staying at the Hotel Rott, Prague. The location is fabulous! Rooms are very clean and comfortable and the breakfasts are great! I would stay there again!

Location

Perfect location in Prague!

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Guided tour of Prague

Prague

Lenka was fabulous! We don't have any recommendations, just wish we had more time in Prague!!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Trip to UNESCO Kutna Hora

Prague

This is worth the trip when you go to Prague! Again, Lenka was fabulous!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Guided tour of Cesky Krumlov

Cesky Krumlov

If you go, have lunch at Papa's! I wish we had more time here, but worth the time we spent. Very beautiful!! Lenka was the perfect tour guide and driver!!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Danube bend day trip from Budapest

Budapest

The Danube is beautiful and this day trip is a must when you go to Budapest. Ask for Tibi!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Local specialist: Tomaz Martinek

Tomaz Martinek

Local specialist in Slovenia | Replied on Sep 16, 2024

Thank you for your review! We're delighted to hear you had a fabulous trip and that the planning process was easy for you, and we look forward to helping you with future adventures!

Read all Czech Republic reviews

Three weeks in Austria
Austria | Jul 25 - Aug 15, 2024

Elizabeth F.

Casa Grande, AZ | Reviewed on Aug 18, 2024

We just arrived back in the USA after three wonderful weeks in Austria. With the help of both Tomaz and Zala, our Austrian assigned travel specialists, we visited Zell Am See, Kitzbuhel, Salzburg, Graz and Vienna. Throughout the stays in the amazing cities we had many day trips and excursions. Thank you Tomaz and Zala! From Zell Am See, our driver / guide David took us along the Grossglockner road and up to the Grossglockner glacier and National Park and down the other side of the... Read more

From Zell Am See, our driver / guide David took us along the Grossglockner road and up to the Grossglockner glacier and National Park and down the other side of the mountain to Heilegeblut. What a spectacular ride with exquisite views and highly educational at the National Park. David is a wonderful guide as he is from the area and quite knowledgable. Another activity suggested by Tomaz and Zala was the Top of Salzburg which was an amazing adventure taking at least 4 ski lifts / cable cars taking about 1&1/2 hours up to the top of the Kitzhorn. We were up on a glacier and experienced the first ski lift built into a glacier. Again, there is a museum to visit which is informative along with spectacular views. An experience like none other.

In Salzburg, we started our trip in the birthplace of Mozart at an evening Mozart string performance and two opera singers in one of the oldest buildings in Salzburg, dating from the 900's. We highly recommend such an experience in Salzburg. We also enjoyed a walking tour of historic old town Salzburg which helped us improve our understanding of the history and architecture and better directed our sightseeing during our remaining stay. One of the highlights was our visit to the Salt mine (Salzburg means Salt area) near Hallstatt. Along the way our very kind, knowledgeable driver took us through beautiful villages and made stops along the way.

Graz was truly a find and not heavily touristed which is refreshing. From here we did two days of traveling to wine regions with our guide David. Have to say, the Austrian and Slovenian (both Styrian regions) white wines are delicious but not well known. We came away converts and cannot say enough nice words about our guide David as he entertained all our ignorant questions and helped us better understand history and culture.

Vienna was our last stop and a city not to be missed. One of the highlights was a food tour guided by Peter. We knew enough to only have some fruit for breakfast which was a good call as 7 hours later we returned back to the hotel with belts way too tight! We liked one of the stops so much we returned the next evening for our last meal in Vienna before heading back to the USA.

This trip marks our fourth time utilizing KimKim, so clearly we think highly of the company. We very much appreciate being taken care of by a local company / individual and have not been disappointed in the level of service and ideas presented. We will be back for more adventures utilizing KimKim.

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Grüner Baum Zell am See

Zell am See

This hotel is in an excellent location for walking all over the small village of Zell and very convenient to walk to/from the train station with luggage. Rooms are quite spacious and the staff is very friendly.

Authenticity & Character

Typical Tyrolian architecture with a lot of wood and beautiful flowers.

Location

Staff

Big smiles and very friendly. They knew our room number when checking in for breakfast after the first day and think about how many customers they meet daily!

Cleanliness & Comfort

Schwarzer Adler Kitzbühel

Kitzbühel

This hotel is near the old historic city center and is exquisite. We were greeted with a glass of Prosecco and made to feel as though we were the most important clients. The hotel is exquisite and a wonderful place to unwind and relax with a roof tip pool including great views and a bar.

Authenticity & Character

Beautiful, old historic building.

Location

Easy access to the city center but a taxi is required from the train station.

Staff

We felt right at home and it was hard to leave

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel IMLAUER & Bräu

Salzburg

Very convenient location to the train station. An easy walk with luggage. And also very easy walk into the city and the historic old town of Salzburg across the river. The staff is quite friendly and helpful making recommendations on where to eat and the easiest way to walk and begin exploring the city. The hotel has a beer garden attached to the restaurant which is lovely and shaded. Restaurant serves authentic Austrian dishes and the breakfast buffet is extensive.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Palais-Hotel Erzherzog Johann 4*

Graz

This hotel is right at the one of the main squares of the historic area of Graz and an easy walk to get to the top of the hill overlooking Graz. Staff is friendly and as usual, they all speak multiple languages so will gladly accommodate the visitor. The trams are right out the door so it is easy to travel around the city if your feet are too tired.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Stefanie

Vienna

Hotel Stefanie is the oldest hotel in Vienna, located in the second district so there is a lot of history packed into the hotel, the city and the district. Very easy to walk across the Danube canal right into the historic city center, about a 10 minute walk. And once across the canal, the metro and trams are all available again making it easy to travel around the area. Staff is immaculate and friendly. This is an "old fashion" hotel in that the room keys are gigantic so you give your key to the staff when leaving the hotel. Amazingly, they have it ready for you with a smile on their face upon your return. So, very friendly and helpful staff. The rooms are far from "old fashion" and are well appointed.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Explore Zell am See on your own

Zell Am See

Started the day with a leisurely boat ride around the lake, approximately 1&1/4 hour. Then, we actually walked around the lake following the walking path. It is about 10 miles total around the lake but there are small little hamlets along the way with restaurants and toilets combined with beautiful views. Spent the remainder of the day wandering the village of Zell am See and having a beer lakeside around 5:30pm.

Top of Salzburg

Zell Am See

This was a highlight and the experiences was very unanticipated. The day started out cloudy and rainy so we debated going as we were certain the views would not be visible given the clouds. But, one never knows so we boarded the bus to Kaprun, about 10km. Ultimately, we then spent the next 1&1/2 hours traveling via 4 different ski cable cars up to the top of the mountain, the Spitz Einhorn. Miraculously, the clouds went during our transport up the mountainside so we were treated with a preview of outlooks to come and could hear the bells of the cattle below us and the sounds of the mountain streams rushing downhill. At the top of the Spitz Einhorn there is plenty to see and do. Ultimately, an amazing day.

Graz City Tour

Graz

This was a small group tour led by an employee of the Graz Tourist Information office. We recommend this tour as it helps you truly look at the buildings and architecture in a different way and truly see them. Lots of stories and history provided as well as tips on where to stop for ice cream and other delicacies.

Classic Concert in Salzburg with dinner

Salzburg

Highly recommend as Salzburg is all about the music and Mozart.

Hallstatt Salt Mine

Austria

This was an unexpected surprise. The mine is an active mine, still used today and has been in use for about 8,000 years. The old original remains are visible and the history is explained along the way. It is a bit "disneyland" but nonetheless an excellent experience tailored to both children and adults. We had a private driver to get us from Salzburg to the mine and had time to wander around Hallstatt afterwards. Hallstatt is picturesque, just like in the guidebooks. But, very crowded.

Day trip to Slovenian Styrian region (Ptuj and Maribor) - the oldest vine in the world!

Graz

David took us wine tasting two days in a row. The first day was to the Syrian region of Austria near the Slovenian border. This particular trip was into Slovenia, our first time into the country of Slovenia. Beautiful and picturesque given the steep rocky hills, vines and trees. Delightful wines. And both Maribor with the oldest vine in the world and Ptuj with the castle were beautiful. The wine was an added bonus.

Vienna's Sweet and Savory Food Scene

Vienna

Our guide Peter provided us with both history of Vienna, explained the architecture and also helped us understand the importance of the foods / beverages we were tasting. So, overall a very educational and delicious tour. We spent about 7 hours total which included a lot of walking and the riding the metro into local neighborhoods with no tourists. This was refreshing as we could see everyday life. One of our stops was at a local market which was amazing to the sense for the sounds, sights, and smells. Highly recommend this tour if you like food and history. This company limits the size of the group and there were 8 of us including Peter.

Wachau Valley wine tour

Vienna

If you like wine and tasting and learning about new wines, this is a good day trip. The company limits the size of the group, there were 6 of us on this trip with 2 guides. We drove for about 1 hour outside of Vienna into the Wachau Valley with explanations along the way. We stopped at two wineries total, one before lunch and the second after lunch. Lunch was at a typical Heuriger which was excellent and unexpected. We had wanted to visit a Heuriger but were unsure of how to do this without a car so this solved the issue. After the second wine visit, we boarded a river steamboat and cruised the Danube to Melk, ending with a beautiful view of the Melk Abbey. Then returned to Vienna. A fun filled, delicious day.

Local specialist: Tomaz Martinek

Tomaz Martinek

Local specialist in Slovenia | Replied on Sep 16, 2024

Thank you for sharing your fantastic experience in Austria! We're thrilled you enjoyed exploring Austria. It sounds like every part of your trip, from the Grossglockner road to the Salzburg Mozart performance and Graz's hidden gems, was filled with unforgettable moments.

We’re honored to have been a part of your fourth journey with KimKim and delighted our team could provide you with memorable and unique experiences. We look forward to helping you plan many more adventures ahead. Thank you for choosing KimKim, and we hope to see you again soon!

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KimKim delivered a GREAT trip experience (again)!
Austria | Jul 4 - Jul 11, 2024

Marla G.

Canada | Reviewed on Jul 15, 2024

This is the second time we've used kimkim to book a trip (the first was Paris two years ago), and our experience was again fantastic. This time, I was even more "hands off" in terms of planning - I basically let kimkim know the dates we were flying into Munich and out of Vienna, and let them know we love history, culture, and food & wine experiences.
Tomaz, Zala and team did the rest! I really appreciate the hotels the team booked for us. Given our lack of knowledge about the areas... Read more

I really appreciate the hotels the team booked for us. Given our lack of knowledge about the areas we were travelling in, we would have had to spend countless hours (and stress!) trying to decide on these small, boutique hotels in the heart of everything....and we probably still would have booked some questionable spots. Tomaz, Zala and team made sure we were in great hotels, in great areas and close to all the transit options we needed.

Our guided walking tours were all excellent! In Munich, Salzburg and Vienna, we started with private walking tours to get a sense of each city. The guides were all fantastic, and the tours helped get us oriented and ready to appreciate all our other experiences.

And speaking of other experiences, we loved our History and Beer tour in Munich, our Baroque Music Dinner in Salzburg and we adored our Vienna food tour with Christof!

The crown jewel of guided experiences on our trip was our tour and wine tasting in the Wachau Valley. Tomas was an extraordinary guide and host. His love of wine, his connection to people & place in the region, and his own long-standing experience as a winemaker added a wonderful dimension to our day. We tasted apricots right off the tree (still warm from the sun!), saw the commanding presence of Melk Abbey, cruised the Danube and visited Durnstein and had the most memorable and delicious wine tasting and lunch at the Lagler Winery. Tomas also introduced us to one of the next generation winemakers in the region, and we brought home some incredible "souveniers."

There is so much more I could say, but I'll end by recommending travel by train between Munich, Salzburg and Vienna (such a lovely way to see the region!) and for using public transit in all three cities - it's easy, much more efficient than driving, and you see and experience so much more!

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Mercure Munich City Centre

Munich

Great location by the Alstadt and close to the train station. Breakfast was fantastic and we loved trying all their different gins and tonics!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Elefant

Salzburg

Extraordinary location on a medieval street with a charming patio!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

K+ K Hotel Maria Theresia

Wien

Great location, close to transit and a LOT of great restaurant options! In walking distance of the museum district and so much more.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Private guided tour of Munich

Munich

We loved our guide and all the context she provided for the unique-ness of Munich!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Bavarian Beer and Food Evening Tour

Munich

Our guide was so friendly and provided entertaining insight aboutn Munich's beer culture and history!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Guided walking tour of Salzburg

Salzburg

Our guide provided a warm welcome to this charming city, it's history and it's community. Born and raised in Salzburg, she was able to share context and worldviews that helped us appreciate this beautiful place, all the more!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Classic Concert in Salzburg with dinner

Salzburg

The musicians and singers were wonderful and the food was good! Loved the setting.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Guided walking tour of Vienna

Vienna

Our guide was exceptionally knowledgable about the history, cultural history and heartbeats of Vienna!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Vienna's Sweet and Savory Food Scene

Vienna

This was SUCH a fun (and tasty!) experience. Wolfli has a great team of guides....we loved our time with Christof! The food, the markets, the beverages.....it was all shared with great stories and local highlights. Highly recommend!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Wachau Valley wine tour

Vienna

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Local specialist: Tomaz Martinek

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Tomaz Martinek

Local specialist in Slovenia | Replied on Jul 25, 2024

Hi Marla, thank you so much for your extensive review! We are happy you enjoyed your trip so much and we look forward to seeing you soon travelling with us! Tomaz

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If you haven't yet been there, you owe yourself a visit to Czech Republic!
Czech Republic | Jun 19 - Jun 23, 2024

Fred L.

Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2024

This was our first trip to Czech Republic and we were very favorably impressed with the country and the amenities we saw. All of us left thinking we should have had more time in the country, but we didn't know that when we planned the trip because we knew so little about the country. We were six: grandfather (me), two daughters and one son-in-law, and two sixteen year-old granddaughters. We left all the plannig to Kim-kim, who contracted it out to Grand Cuvée Tours, and they did a good... Read more

We were six: grandfather (me), two daughters and one son-in-law, and two sixteen year-old granddaughters. We left all the plannig to Kim-kim, who contracted it out to Grand Cuvée Tours, and they did a good job of selecting international connections, airport transfers, lodging, and tours.

International flights were on Ryan Air, a first on that carrier. We were not impressed with them: airport check-in was poorly organized in Rome (chaotic is a better description) and we would not fly with Ryan Air again if there were an alternative.

Connection from the airport to the hotel in Prague was easy and comfortable, and accommodations at the Hotel Cube were very good. We would recommend them for others going to Prague.

We had three tours while in Czech Republic:

1. a walking tour of Prague Castlle, old town, and Charles Bridge with Lenka while in Prague,

2. a road trip by van with guide and driver Pavel to Kutna Hora, where we saw the gothic cathedral and the bone church and learnend the importance of silver mining to the prosperity of the town, and

3. a road trip by van with guide and driver Pavel to the castle of Český Krumlov, where we walked through the gardens and the walkways of the castle. On the way back to Prague from Český Krumlov, we stopped to walk around Pisek, across the bridge, and to a restaurant where we enjoyed a light meal and local beer. This was an added stop for the day's tour, and a very worthwhile stop.

Both Lenka and Pavel were very good tour guides, with extensive knowledge of the history of the sites we were visiting and good English so they could explain what we were seeing and its significance to the history of the country. Both also had interesting insights on the long-term history of the Czech people and the place of the country in the wider history of Europe. My granddaughters (and all the adults) learned more about the pre-war and post-war of history Europe than they had learned in secondary school.

We also discovered over the course of four days that Prague has outstanding beer and dining facilities. We enjoyed the complimentary breakfast at the hotel (a full breakfast, not just coffee and rolls), but we really enjoyed the lunches and dinners we found each day. The itinerary and guide for our tour said we would find good restaurants, and we truly did. Some were pricey, others were very reasonable, but all were good and we enjoyed menus that were new to us. An eating tour of Czech Republic would be a good plan!

We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to the Czech Republic and very much appreciated the program put together by Grand Cuvée Tours, contracted by Kim kim. Our big takeaway from this is that the Czech Republic is a real treasure for tourists looking for a new and special experience. We were delighted with the time we had and the people who worked with us on every aspect of the tour. We will say we were somewhat surprised by the cost of the visit to Prague -- it actually cost us more than our subsequent visit to Rome, which lasted two days longer than our Prague visit.

Our sincere thanks to Lenka, Pavel, Hotel Cube staff, Grand Cuvée Tours, Kim Kim and the hundreds of people we talked and interacted with during the time we were in Czech Republic. Top marks and thanks to the organizers and guides!

Hotel Review

Hotel CUBE Prague

Prague

Very good hotel, great breakfast, excellent location (convenient to local dining), highly recommended.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Very convenient for local dining, great location for walking tours of the city.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Local specialist: Tomaz Martinek

Tomaz Martinek

Local specialist in Slovenia | Replied on Jul 08, 2024

Hi Fred, thank you for your great review and I look forward to see you travelling with KimKim again.

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Tomaz Martinek

Grand Cuvée Tours

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