Tour to Italy and Austria

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Monday June 1: Overnight Flight

Departure from the United States.

Day 2, Tuesday June 2: Verona

Arrive in the enchanting "City of Canals," Venice, Italy! Meet your tour manager and embark on a scenic journey to Verona, the romantic city immortalized by Shakespeare’s timeless tale of Romeo and Juliet. Enjoy free time to explore this picturesque town, including a visit to Juliet's famous house. After checking into your hotel and taking some time to refresh, join us for a delicious group dinner to conclude your day. (D)

Day 3, Wednesday June 3: Verona

Today is a symphony of musical experiences! Start your day with a visit to Cremona, home to an exclusive collection of historic violins, including the iconic 1715 Stradivarius. Dive deeper into the city's rich musical heritage with a tour of local violin-making workshops, where you’ll witness artisans at work. Enjoy dinner on your own this evening. (B)

Day 4, Thursday June 4: Verona

Today, embark on a full-day adventure to the enchanting "Queen of the Adriatic," Venice! Begin with a scenic boat transfer to St. Mark’s Square, just like the locals do. Your guided walking tour will take you through this Byzantine masterpiece, including a visit to the breathtaking St. Mark’s Basilica and the majestic Doge’s Palace. Here, you’ll cross the historic "Bridge of Sighs," once the final view of the world for many prisoners. Take a moment to peer through its tiny window and imagine the silent stories it holds. Spend your afternoon soaking in the unique atmosphere of Venice. In the spring and summer, Piazza San Marco is alive with vibrant activity and live music—grab a drink and let the melodies of local musicians mix with the distant tunes of gondoliers. Your afternoon includes a peaceful gondola ride through the iconic canals of Venice. After an unforgettable day, enjoy a delicious dinner before returning to Verona. (B,D)

Day 5, Friday June 5: Salzburg

Today, travel to the charming city of Salzburg, with a delightful stop in Innsbruck, a favorite vacation destination of the Hapsburgs. Explore this picturesque city with a visit to the Hofkirche, an iconic symbol of Innsbruck’s rich history. Continue your journey to Salzburg, where you’ll check into your hotel and enjoy an afternoon visit to the impressive Hohensalzburg Fortress, offering stunning panoramic views of the city. Then, step into the world of the legendary composer at Mozart’s House, where you’ll gain insight into the life and music of Salzburg’s most famous son. Dinner will be on your own this evening. (B)

Day 6, Saturday June 6: Salzburg

This morning, embark on a magical 4-hour Sound of Music tour through Salzburg, where you'll step into the world of the iconic film that captured hearts around the globe. Visit some of the most memorable filming locations, starting with the stunning Mirabell Gardens, where the famous "Do-Re-Mi" song came to life. Continue to Nonnberg Abbey, the real-life setting where Maria (Julie Andrews) was a postulant. Explore the grand Leopoldskron Palace, the exterior of the von Trapp family home, and stroll through the picturesque Sound of Music Meadow, where the von Trapp children sang "Do-Re-Mi." You’ll also visit the charming Gazebo at Hellbrunn Palace, where Liesl and Rolf shared a romantic moment, and the historic Felsenreitschule, where Maria and the von Trapp family performed before their daring escape. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Salzburg at your leisure before your rehearsal and performance in Salzburg! After, gathering for a delightful dinner together. (B,D)

Day 7, Sunday June 7: Vienna

This morning, depart for Vienna, with a visit to Mondsee for a Mass participation, adding a special touch to your journey. Next, enjoy an informal sing at the magnificent Melk Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upon arrival in Vienna, transfer to your centrally located hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore this elegant and vibrant city at your own pace. Enjoy dinner on your own. (B)

Day 8, Monday June 8: Vienna

This morning, step into the grandeur of Schönbrunn Palace, the sprawling Habsburg summer retreat, where you’ll tour both the Imperial state rooms and the private quarters of the Austrian Emperors. Enjoy a traditional strudel demonstration at the Palace, a delightful treat for all your senses! Next, embark on a sightseeing tour of Vienna with an expert local guide, who will lead you through the city's historic highlights, including the Ringstrasse, the Hofburg Palace complex, the Opera House, and the iconic St. Stephen's Cathedral. In the afternoon, take time to rehearse for your concert performance later this evening as part of a memorable exchange concert. (B,D)

Day 9, Tuesday June 9: Vienna

Today, journey to Eisenstadt, the home of the great composer Joseph Haydn. Enjoy a guided tour of the Esterházy Palace, where you'll explore the stunning 17th-century "Haydnsaal," renowned for its exceptional acoustics. You may even have the opportunity for an informal performance in this historic venue. Also included is a visit to the Haydn Mausoleum, where the composer is laid to rest. Afterward, return to Vienna for some final free time to explore the city before setting sail on a scenic cruise down the Danube. (B,D)

Day 10, Wednesday June 10: Departure

Transfer to the airport for return flight to the United States. (B)