Downs Music World Tour to Central Europe

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, Friday March 27: Overnight Flight

Departure from the United States.

Day 2, Saturday March 28: Salzburg

Your Tour Manager will meet you upon arrival in Europe this morning and transfer you to the musical city of Salzburg, Austria. Located in the Salzach River Valley, Salzburg is one of the most picturesque of all European cities - indeed, it is all of Europe in concentrated form with a castle, cathedral, squares, gardens, spires and rivers. The city's reputation is based on a living musical tradition being the city of Mozart. Its beauty and vibrant musical life have made it one of Europe's foremost cultural cities. Enjoy a traditional Heurigen dinner together this evening to begin your European adventure! (D)

Day 3, Sunday March 29: Salzburg

Discover the enchanting sights of the musical city of Salzburg on a guided sightseeing tour. Journey through the historical town to see the Mozartplatz, the cathedral, Pegasus Fountain, and Mirabell Gardens. Next, visit Mozart's Birthplace Museum on the crowded shopping street, the Getreidegasse before taking the funicular up to the fortress that dominates the city. Later today your will rehearse and perform your first concert performance as an exchange concert with a local school! (B,D)

Day 4, Monday March 30: Salzburg

This morning you have time to explore Salzburg at your own pace. This afternoon, marvel at the picturesque lakeside town of Halstatt. Surrounded by mountains, Halstatt is ideal to wander the streets and see the pastel-coloured houses casting shimmering reflections onto the looking-glass lake. (B,D)

Day 5, Tuesday March 31: Vienna

Check out of the hotel and journey east to the Austrian capital of Vienna, the historical center of the musical world and a must-visit for any musician. En route, stop in the town of Melk to visit the Abbey, of the grandest religious structures this side of the Vatican. An informal performance opportunity may be possible. Continue your journey through the scenic Wachau Valley to Vienna. Upon arrival begin to explore the Baroque façades and lively squares of this musical city in which Beethoven, Strauss and Mozart once composed. (B,D)

Day 6, Wednesday April 1: Vienna

Vienna is the historical center of the musical world as well as being a UNESCO heritage city. Discover the rich architectural wonders from the great Stephansdom and Baroque castles to the 19th century Ringstrasse lined with grand buildings, monuments and parks. Your morning panoramic guided tour will include the highlights of the city including the Stephansdom, Vienna Opera and Hofburg Palace. Enjoy lunch on your own and then take a guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace. Today, you will participate in a master class with a member of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra! (B,D)

Day 7, Thursday April 2: Vienna

Today journey to Eisenstadt, home of Joseph Haydn. Enjoy a guided tour through the Esterházy Palace including the 17th century "Haydnsaal" with its wonderful acoustics. An informal performance may be possible. Entrance is also included to the Haydn Mausoleum. Return to Vienna for some last-minute exploring. (B,D)

Day 8, Friday April 3: Prague

Check out of your hotel this morning and depart for Prague, one of Central Europe's most beautiful cities. After breakfast, take a guided walking tour of historic Prague. See the major highlights of this beautiful city as you pass through the Castle district, the Lesser Town, on to Charles Bridge, through the Old Town and to the medieval Astronomical Clock. In the afternoon, travel to your performance venue and get ready to perform your final concert. Have dinner together in a local restaurant before turning in for the night. (B,D)

Day 9, Saturday April 4: Prague

Entire morning is free to explore at your leisure. You may wish to visit the grand St. Vitus Cathedral, marvel at its stunning stained glass and climb up the tower to discover the amazing view of the city below. Or, venture to the Jewish Quarter to visit the Museum, Europe's oldest surviving Jewish cemetery, the Holocaust Memorial, or one of the many synagogues. You could also relax and spend your time sipping coffee at a classical cafe. Tonight, celebrate your successful concert tour to the Czech Republic with a farewell dinner cruise on the River Vltava. (B,D)

Day 10, Sunday April 5: Departure

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