Day 1: Sunday, July 04, 2010
Overnight Flight
Welcome to Austria! Embrace the beauty of the Austrian Alps with quaint villages, pristine lakes and the fertile valleys of Innsbruck and Salzburg. Plus, enjoy two nights in the famous Bavarian village of Oberammergau, Germany, where you experience the historic Passion Play.
Day 2: Monday, July 05, 2010
Innsbruck, Austria - Tour Begins
Your tour begins in the enchanting “capital of the Alps” – Innsbruck. Here, modern architecture stands beside 800-year-old buildings and the Austrian Alps create a post-card perfect backdrop. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.
Today Dinner is included.
Day 3: Tuesday, July 06, 2010
Innsbruck
Join a local guide for a panoramic tour of the Imperial city of Innsbruck featuring Maria Theresienstrasse; the famous Golden Roof, built in 1500 by Archduke Friedrich IV; and the Hofburg, once the seat of Habsburg princes. The remainder of your day is at leisure to relax or further explore Innsbruck.
Today Breakfast is included.
Day 4: Wednesday, July 07, 2010
Innsbruck - Bavaria, Germany - Innsbruck
Set off for the beautiful Bavarian Alps and find storybook settings comprised of charming villages and enchanting castles. Stop at the Wies Church in the foothills of the Alps. This pilgrimage church, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built in the late 1740s to protect a famous statue of the Scourged Saviour which miraculously shed tears in 1738. Later, the sight of Neuschwanstein Castle brings fairytales to life during a picture stop. This 19th-century Bavarian castle, known for its famous neo-romantic architectural style, is the most photographed building in Germany and the inspiration for the Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland. LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Today your Tour Manager helps you discover the origin and history of German – the official language in Austria – and teaches you key words and phrases to help you communicate with the locals.
Today Breakfast is included.
Day 5: Thursday, July 08, 2010
Innsbruck - Salzburg
Travel through the picturesque Austrian countryside to the musical city of Salzburg. Beautiful gardens, old-world architecture and friendly locals paint Salzburg’s delightful canvas. Home to Mozart, dotted with sights from the beloved film The Sound of Music, and with an Old City that is a UNESCO World Heritage site, Salzburg truly has something for everyone. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely-paced walking tour featuring Mirabell Gardens, famously featured during the song “Do Re Mi” from The Sound of Music; and Getreidegasse – a busy street in the Old Town section of Salzburg and birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. This evening, join your fellow travelers for dinner at the centuries-old St. Peter’s Restaurant, one of the city’s most popular dining establishments and the city’s oldest restaurant, first mentioned in a document dating back to 803.
Today
Breakfast and Dinner
is included.
Day 6: Friday, July 09, 2010
Salzburg
Enjoy a day at leisure to independently explore this Baroque city on the banks of the Salzach River. Perhaps visit the city’s amazing historic area, browse its wonderful shops or enjoy a coffee at a local café while soaking in the charming atmosphere. Your Tour Manager will be on hand to offer suggestions. However you choose to spend your day, Salzburg is sure to delight!
Today Breakfast is included.
Day 7: Saturday, July 10, 2010
Salzburg - Munich, Germany - Oberammergau Region
This morning journey to the Bavarian capital of Munich – idyllically situated at the foot of the Alps. A locally guided panoramic tour of Munich showcases its unique blend of folkloric ambience and modern sophistication. Visit Olympic Park, site of the 1972 Olympic games and a stunning example of modern architecture. Next, marvel at the Baroque-influenced architecture of the city as you visit the Marienplatz – the heart of Munich and the most scenic square of the old town. Here, behold the Rathaus-Glockenspiel – an ornate clock comprised of 43 bells and 32 life-sized figures that depict medieval jousting and dancing – reflecting different pieces of Bavaria’s history. Some leisure time allows you to explore Munich’s lovely historic center, visit one of its many museums or discover more of the city’s beauty on your own. Travel to the picturesque village of Oberammergau, your home for the next two nights. Upon arrival, enjoy a brief tour to acquaint you with the village.
Today
Breakfast and Dinner
is included.
Day 8: Sunday, July 11, 2010
Oberammergau - Passion Play
Unwind during a morning at leisure. This afternoon, experience the world-famous Passion Play – a powerful once-in-a-decade event. The original performance dates back to 1634 when the villagers of Oberammergau vowed to perform a play depicting the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ every ten years if God would spare its residents from the clutches of the Bubonic Plague. No one died after that and a legend was born. The Passion Play has become an epic event. The 41st production, once again by natives of Oberammergau, takes the world by storm. During a break in the performance, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner celebrating the end of an unforgettable journey.
Today Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner is included.
Day 9: Monday, July 12, 2010
Oberammergau Region - Tour Ends
Today Breakfast is included.