Day 1: Frankfurt – Heidelberg
Arrive at the airport in Frankfurt, & take off on a scenic journey through Rhineland. This western German region features lush, wine-producing valleys & one of Europe’s most famous waterways, the breathtaking Rhine River. See the legendary rock, Lorelei, as you enjoy a relaxing cruise along the river today. Afterward, travel to Heidelberg. Before tonight’s welcome dinner, discover some of the city’s enchanting sites, such as the Castle & the University (time permitting).
Day 2: Heidelberg – Rothenburg – Bamberg
Travel east to Rothenburg. In addition to its medieval presence, this German town features charming houses, decorated with colorful flowers blooming from window boxes. Enjoy performing outside one of the town’s famous buildings. Then, explore St. Jakobs Church, where you’ll marvel at the incredible detail of Tilman Riemenschneider’s “Holy Blood Alter,” an early 16th-century masterpiece portraying the Last Supper. Other highlights in Rothenburg include the 14th-century town wall & market square. Afterward, head to historic Bamberg, home to the “Little Venice,” a scenic row of houses situated alongside the Regnitz River. Take a stroll through Bamberg’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, & see the famous Old Town Hall, which features a bridged entrance to its off-land location.
Day 3: Bamberg – Nuremberg – Prague
Leave Bamberg this morning, & drive to Nuremberg, a city world-renowned for its World War II history. Enjoy attending a local worship service before continuing today’s journey. Afterward, it’s “Auf Wiedersehen” to Germany on a ride that takes you across the border, through the lush landscapes of the Czech Republic, & into one of Europe’s most enchanting cities, Prague. Enjoy dinner upon arrival. Experience the taste of tradition with a meat & dumplings dish this evening, such as savory “Goulash” or creamy “Svickova.”
Day 4: Prague
Discover a variety of architecture today as you take an exciting tour around Prague. Begin the tour by visiting historic Mala Strana, also known as Lesser Town. Then visit Prague Castle. Once inside the royal complex, discover the Gothic-style St. Vitus Cathedral, see the colorful houses on a walk down Golden Lane, & visit the Old Royal Palace. Next, take a ride up the Petrin funicular, & enjoy incredible views of the city from the hilltop. Then, cross over the Vltava on the famous Charles Bridge, where you’ll find street vendors selling handicrafts, musicians playing for the crowds passing by, & thirty statues of saints that line the bridge. See one of the world’s most famous clocks, the Astronomical Clock, & hear the fascinating legend behind it. The morning tour concludes with a visit to Prague’s New Town. Highlights include the Powder Tower, the National Museum, Wenceslas Square, Charles Square, & unlike the older architectural beauties you will have seen so far today, the Dancing House, an eccentric work of modern architecture. Later today, browse the shops in Old Town for souvenirs & gifts, or discover another incredible view of the city from atop the Zizkov Television Tower. Tonight, your choir will perform at a local church.
Day 5: Prague – Cesky Krumlov – Linz – Salzburg
Follow the road that leads to Cesky Krumlov, a town situated in the Czech Republic’s lovely South Bohemian Region. Enjoy walking down the quaint, cobblestone streets of the city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before crossing the border into Austria. Visit the city of Linz before continuing to Salzburg, where the movie “The Sound of Music” was filmed. Enjoy a traditional Austrian-style dinner, & an overnight stay in Salzburg.
Day 6: Salzburg
See some of Austria’s most famous, Baroque-style buildings. Visit the 17th-century Salzburg Cathedral, home to the baptismal font used during the baptism of one of the world’s most celebrated composers, Mozart. Take a walk through the colorful gardens at Mirabell Palace, discover the surprise fountains situated in the park at Hellbrunn Palace, & see the famous statue of Mozart in Mozart Square. Other highlights include Mozart’s home & set locations for the 1965 musical film “The Sound of Music.” Later today, enjoy time of leisure. Other famous places to visit include the Salzburg Museum & the Hohensalzburg Fortress. Before the day’s end, let your voices be heard as your choir performs at a local church.
Day 7: Salzburg – Vienna
Enjoy scenic views of the graceful Danube River as you head northeast to Austria’s capital city. After checking in to the hotel, enjoy the remainder of the day in Vienna at leisure. Possible activities include attending an opera.
Day 8: Vienna
Visit the residence of Austria’s president, Hofburg Palace. Explore the collections at the Museum of Fine Arts & the Natural History Museum, which features around 30 million items. Other buildings along the famous Ringstrasse route include the State Opera House. Visit the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace, & discover the grandeur of Gothic & Romanesque architecture at St. Stephen’s Cathedral. After the tour, enjoy time of leisure. The evening concludes with a farewell dinner.
Day 9: Vienna – USA
Transfer to the airport in Vienna, & board return flight home.