Holiday Markets on the Rhine Discovery

Approximately $1,995 per person, plus airfare and V.A.T., based on double occupancy.

Operated by Alumni Holidays International (AHI)

Recapture the magic of the holidays and step into scenes that glitter with fairy-tale charm in Austria. Explore the mazes of wooden booths decorated with fragrant pine boughs and displaying unique, handcrafted decorations and gifts. The smell of warm glühwein, roasted chestnuts and spicy gingerbread will fill the air and tickle your senses as you immerse yourself in this beloved tradition. You will also get to know Austria’s great cities. Marvel at the opulent architecture of Vienna, Austria’s beloved capital. Meander along the streets of charming Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace and the setting of one of the world’s most beloved films, The Sound of Music. Explore the stunning abbey at Melk and discover Germany’s lovely Passau. Believe in holiday magic once again while discovering Holiday Markets on the Rhine!

ITINERARY

Day 1
Depart for Vienna, Austria, aboard scheduled jet service. (Provided for Air Program participants only.)

Day 2 - VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Upon arrival, transfer by deluxe motorcoach to the ship. (Transfer provided for Air Program participants only.)
Excursion: Vienna.
This afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing tour of this enchanting city. See the State Opera, the famous Hotel Sacher and the Imperial Burial Vaults where members of the Hapsburg family lie. Also, see the Imperial Apartments and the Holiday Market at the Vienna City Hall. Return to the ship late in the afternoon.

Tonight, gather with fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception and Dinner.

Day 3 - VIENNA
Today is at leisure to experience the magic of Vienna on your own. Those who wish may take the shuttle from the pier to the city’s central district to indulge in some Christmas shopping in the festive holiday markets at the City Hall and Bellevue Palace.

Optional Excursion: Schönbrunn Palace.
This morning, visit the stunning Schönbrunn Palace for a tour showcasing its many treasures. Afterward, take advantage of some free time to browse the stalls of the Christmas market located on the grounds.

Day 4 - MELK
This morning, admire the picturesque towns of Krems and Dürnstein as you sail along the Rhine River.

Excursion: Melk.
Enjoy a visit to the impressive Melk Abbey. Located on the banks of the Rhine, it is a truly stunning architectural masterpiece.

Day 5 - PASSAU, GERMANY / SALZBURG, AUSTRIA
Excursion: Passau.
Begin your visit to Passau with a walking tour showcasing the Rathaus; the medieval Veste Oberhaus, an imposing fortress; and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, whose organ is one of the largest in the world. After the tour, enjoy lunch, then board the waiting motorcoach for your transfer to Salzburg.

Upon arrival in Salzburg, transfer to the Crowne Plaza Salzburg~The Pitter.

The remainder of the day is free to explore the nearby holiday market at Mirabelle Palace.

Day 6 - SALZBURG
Excursion: Salzburg.
During today’s walking tour, see stately Mirabelle Palace, Mozart’s House and the Salzburg Cathedral before concluding at a Christmas market in the Old Town.

Day 7 - SALZBURG
Educational Focus: Salzburg and The Sound of Music.
Enjoy an informative talk about Salzburg’s most famous residents, the Family von Trapp whose adventures were immortalized in the film, The Sound of Music.

Enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

Optional Excursion: Sound of Music.
Admire the breathtaking landscape on a ride through Salzburg to see the sites where the opening scenes of The Sound of Music were filmed. Relax while listening to the original The Sound of Music soundtrack and view the beautiful locations shown in the movie. You will also see many historical and architectural landmarks of the city and part of the picturesque lake district on this memorable ride.

Day 8 - SALZBURG
Today, the day will be at leisure to do some last-minute shopping, visit the delightful holiday markets, explore the city or relax.

Optional Excursion: Sleigh Ride.
Immerse yourself in the winter wonderland surrounding Salzburg with a festive sleigh ride through its rolling hills. Your journey includes a stop for mulled wine and snacks.

This evening, attend a Farewell Reception, followed by a dinner with holiday specialties.

Day 9
After breakfast, transfer to the Munich airport for the return flight to North America. (Provided for Air Program participants only.)