Step inside the hidden history of the Cold War on this 10-day small-group espionage journey through Berlin, Leipzig, Prague, and Vienna. This is not a standard European tour with a spy theme layered on top. It is an immersive exploration of intelligence, resistance, deception, and statecraft—experienced on the very ground where it unfolded.
Your guide is John Sipher, a retired senior officer of the Central Intelligence Agency and former Chief of Station, who spent decades operating in the world you will be studying. There are history tours, and there are intelligence briefings—but there are no other journeys that combine on-the-ground access with the perspective of someone who lived the profession at the highest levels. John is joined by expert local guides in each city, ensuring both strategic context and deep local insight.
Over ten days, you will explore key Cold War sites, meet regional experts, and still have time to walk, reflect, and absorb each city on your own terms. The program includes guided touring, private transfers, and carefully selected boutique hotels—designed for travelers who want substance, access, and a serious understanding of how espionage shaped modern Europe.
To preserve the depth of discussion and access, the group will be capped at about 15 participants. Final pricing will be determined by the total number of confirmed travelers. Once bookings and flights are secured, Tradecraft Travel will work individually with interested guests to arrange airport transfers in Berlin at the start of the program and in Vienna at its conclusion.
Inclusions:
Accommodation with breakfast included
Private bus on disposal for transfers and tours mentioned on the itinerary
A retired senior CIA officer guide
English speaking local guides for tours mentioned on the itinerary
Welcome dinner (fixed menu)
Entrance fees as mentioned
Not included:
Your international airfare – let Tradecraft Travel know if you’d like to receive pricing
Airport transfers in Berlin, Vienna
Pre- or post-tour extensions
Hotel Porterage (1 piece of luggage per person)
Gratuities for services and experiences
Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
Hotel local city tax, to be paid in destination at time of check out
Any other item mentioned in the program
Agents with serious interest are encouraged to make a deposit of $1,400 per person to reserve space.
Please read the terms, conditions, and cancellation policies thoroughly.
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