Celebrate the holiday season Alpine style. On this great itinerary, you'll spend six nights in one hotel in the heart of Austria, and explore the Christmas markets of Austria and southern Bavaria. Highlights of your tour include a picture stop of the fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle which is even more magical during the holidays; a visit to Wies Church, proclaimed a World Heritage Site; and the small town of Oberammergau, which owes its fame to the internationally-known Passion Play, performed only every ten years. Explore the scenic cities of Innsbruck, Munich and Salzburg with informative tours in each location. In Salzburg, savor a delightful dinner at the centuries-old St. Peter's Restaurant. This tour includes plenty of independent time for shopping the wonderful Christmas markets found in these lovely cities where you are sure to return home with one-of-a-kind treasures for you or those on your gift list.

Behold spectacular Alpine vistas and enjoy a performance of the famed Oberammergau Passion Play on this journey through Italy, Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. After a drive through Italy’s Lake District, cross over to Switzerland for views of Lake Lugano or a chance to peruse the shops. In Zermatt, climb aboard the Glacier Express for an unforgettable train ride through the Alpine scenery of majestic mountains, verdant valleys, picturesque canyons, glistening glaciers and snowcapped peaks. The birthplace of Mozart and Mirabell Gardens are featured during your leisurely walking tour of Salzburg, Austria, before treating your taste buds to a scrumptious dinner at the centuries-old St. Peter’s Restaurant. You’ll cross the border into Germany and the Bavarian capital of Munich, where a walking tour includes the Marienplatz, the Glockenspiel and the Olympic Park. Your final destination finds you in Oberammergau, a quaint village nestled in the Bavarian Alps. Here, you’ll witness a performance of the world-renowned Passion Play, whose origins date back to 1634, when the villagers of Oberammergau vowed to perform a play every ten years in honor of Christ’s life if they were spared from the Black Plague.

Welcome to Collette Vacations' holiday program featuring the traditional Christmas markets, historic towns and spectacular scenery of Europe. Each stop will beckon you with unique handcrafted gifts like Hummels, Cuckoo clocks, and wood carvings. Highlights include a visit to the magical village of Oberammergau which owes its fame to the internationally known "Passion Play," as well as guided tours of Innsbruck, Austria; Munich, Germany; Strasbourg, France; and Lucerne, Switzerland. Enjoy a traditional Black Forest dinner and a concert inside an 850-year-old church; enjoy a picture stop at Wies Church, proclaimed a World Heritage Site; view the most famous castle in Bavaria, Neuschwanstein; and traverse the vineyard fields of the Alsace. There will be plenty of time on this tour to explore the many specialty markets, enjoy the amenities offered at your hotel, or simply savor the breathtaking Alpine scenery.

Travel through three of Europe’s most picturesque countries: Austria, Germany (Bavaria), and Switzerland. Marvel at the baroque architecture of Schoenbrunn and Belvedere Palace during your stay in the Imperial city of Vienna. Watch as the beautiful scenery of the historic Wachau Valley glides past during your Danube River cruise. In the “City of Music,” Salzburg, a city tour features the Cathedral, Mozart’s birthplace, and Mirabell Gardens. Music lovers will delight in the Mozart Dinner Concert at the centuries-old St. Peter's Restaurant. In the quaint village of Oberammergau, you’ll watch as the entire village gathers to put on their world-renowned Oberammergau Passion Play. Enjoy reserve seating as you witness this event that dates back to 1634. Search for authentic cuckoo clocks, Hummels, and wood carvings in the mysterious Black Forest before arriving in the spectacular Alpine village of Zermatt. Travel to the beautiful medieval city of Lucerne for a leisurely-paced walking tour featuring the covered Chapel Bridge (1833) and the Lion Monument, carved from natural rock to commemorate the heroic Swiss Guard. Explore delightful Bern on a panoramic sightseeing tour highlighting the Bundeshaus (the Swiss Parliament), the famous Bear Pit, the Rose Gardens, and the gothic cathedral.

Explore three of Europe's most picturesque countries: Austria, Germany (Bavaria) and Switzerland. Austria's stunning vistas, Alpine splendor, sophisticated shopping, classical culture and culinary adventure makes it ideally suited for every style and taste. On a tour showcasing Vienna's architectural marvels, you will see the historic Schoenbrunn Palace and St. Stephan's Cathedral. Enjoy a lovely cruise along the Danube River and visit the Benedictine Melk Abbey before continuing to Salzburg. While in Salzburg, birthplace to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, enjoy a walking tour of Old Town and visit Mirabell Gardens. Munich, Germany, the capital of Bavaria since 1503, features museums and a vibrant art scene. At its center lies an open expanse of cafes and shops called Marienplatz. The Glockenspiel chimes away at noon and draws masses to the city hall. One of the most spectacular sights on this tour is Neuschwanstein Castle, epitomizing the fairytale landscape of Bavaria. This stunning castle sits perched high atop the mountain range. From the stunning Black Forest of Germany, you're off to Switzerland! A tour of the city of Bern, one of Europe's loveliest capitals, reveals one of the few medieval cities that has been preserved intact and in its entirety. Selected by UNESCO for its list of World Cultural Heritage sites, the city has great charm. Finally, you'll be riveted by the tranquil shimmering waters of Lake Geneva where you'll tour the Castle of Chillon before heading off to the Alpine village of Zermatt and the picturesque city of Lucerne.

See some of Europe’s most precious gems on this magnificent mosaic of European culture. Begin in London with two overnights and free time to discover the UK’s capital. Cross the English Channel by ferry and board your motorcoach to Amsterdam, where guided sightseeing and a canal cruise await. In Germany, travel along the castle-dotted Rhine River and join the Romantic Road as it passes by medieval towns with fairytale-looking, half-timbered houses. Overnight in Munich and continue south through the majestic Dolomites on your way to Venice. A boat ride along one of the main canals takes you to St. Mark’s Square, with time to admire the famous Venetian landmarks. On to Florence, “Cradle of the Renaissance,” for a guided walking tour that features Palazzo Vecchio, sculpture-filled Signoria Square, the Duomo, and more. Heading north, cross the Lombardy plain into Switzerland’s Canton Ticino for a stop in lovely subtropical Lugano before climbing toward St. Gotthard Tunnel and then descending to Lake Lucerne. Your vacation ends in Paris, the “City of Light,” where a local expert shows you the sites, and you’ll enjoy free time to soak up the romantic beauty.

See some of Europe’s most precious gems on this magnificent mosaic of European culture. Begin in London with two overnights and free time to discover the UK’s capital. Cross the English Channel by ferry and board your motorcoach to Amsterdam, where guided sightseeing and a canal cruise await. In Germany, travel along the castle-dotted Rhine River and join the Romantic Road as it passes by medieval towns with fairytale-looking, half-timbered houses. Overnight in Munich and continue south through the majestic Dolomites on your way to Venice. A boat ride along one of the main canals takes you to St. Mark’s Square, with time to admire the famous Venetian landmarks. On to Florence, “Cradle of the Renaissance,” for a guided walking tour that features Palazzo Vecchio, sculpture-filled Signoria Square, the Duomo, and more. Heading north, cross the Lombardy plain into Switzerland’s Canton Ticino for a stop in lovely subtropical Lugano before climbing toward St. Gotthard Tunnel and then descending to Lake Lucerne. Next: Paris, the “City of Light,” where a local expert shows you the sites, and you’ll enjoy free time to soak up the romantic beauty. Return to London via the Channel ferry for a final overnight in this magnificent city!

This comprehensive vacation focuses on the crown jewels of Germany, starting and ending in Frankfurt. Begin with a panoramic Rhine River cruise. Then, see Cologne with its gothic cathedral, the historic buildings of legendary Hamelin, the harbor city of Hamburg, and Hanseatic Lübeck. Enjoy two overnights in Berlin, Germany’s once-divided capital, then the cultural centers of Dresden and Leipzig. Stop in Weimar, where the Bauhaus movement started in the 1920s, and Coburg, with its medieval fortress. From Nuremberg, discover the half-timbered houses of picture-postcard Rothenburg, then follow some of the scenic Romantic Road. Wander at leisure in Munich’s Marienplatz and experience the gem of the Bavarian Alps: King Ludwig’s fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle. Enjoy more German panoramas as you drive through the famed Black Forest and stop in Heidelberg before returning to Frankfurt, where you’ll say “Prost!” to this exciting adventure.

The rediscovered jewels of Imperial Europe are the focus of this popular vacation, which includes overnights in Munich, Prague, Vienna, Budapest, and Salzburg. In Prague, see the tolling of the Astronomical Clock, when a sinister medieval figure of death emerges to pull the bell cord. Operating for over six centuries, this is a highlight of any trip to Prague. Also enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of Vienna—maybe sit in a café with a piece of scrumptious Sachertorte while listening to a legendary waltz, or explore the inside of St. Stephen’s Cathedral with its Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Even more fabulous architecture awaits you in Budapest, where you’ll see the Matthias Coronation Church, founded in 1015, which has witnessed several coronations and royal weddings.

Breakfast is included daily, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sample the local cuisine in each city. Sample the sauerkraut in Munich, savor Apfelstrudel in Salzburg, and enjoy the plum dumplings and Pilsner in Prague. You’ll also enjoy the enchanting natural scenery you’ll witness, including the Alps and Danube River Valley—amazing features of a marvelous vacation.

This popular vacation takes you through the heart of Central Europe. Starting and ending in Frankfurt, spend two overnights each in Berlin, Warsaw, Kraków, Budapest, and Prague. See Germany’s major cities, including the one-time intellectual hub of Weimar; reunified Berlin; and Munich, the lively Bavarian capital. From Germany, it’s on to the highlights of Poland: charming Poznan, magnificent Warsaw, the historic Jasna Góra monastery, the Auschwitz concentration camp, and romantic Kraków. As you travel to Hungary, admire the majestic Tatra Mountains and pass through some of the most scenic parts of Slovakia. The legendary Danube welcomes you to Budapest with Buda Castle, Fishermen’s Bastion, and Matthias Coronation Church. Austria’s capital of Vienna beckons next, the elegant city known for the waltz, delectable pastries, and awe-inspiring Habsburg palaces. On to Prague with its Charles Bridge, Jewish Quarter, and world-famous Astronomical Clock. Head through the Bohemian Forest into Bavarian Munich, and along the Romantic Road with the fairytale villages of Nördlingen and Rothenburg, medieval jewels with traditional 16th-century, half-timbered houses.

The breathtaking Alps span the borders of several European countries, and this vacation gives you the opportunity to see the best of the alpine region. Begin in Bavaria’s capital, Munich, and see how the landscape changes from flatland to gentle hills to magnificent mountains. Visit King Ludwig’s rococo Linderhof Castle and cross the border into Austria to overnight in Innsbruck. From Tyrol, travel via the Grossglockner Pass to the majestic Dolomites, now a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. See quaint villages, imposing peaks, and enchanting forests, and learn about the alpine culture. Journey through South Tyrol and to Engadine National Park, one of the most beautiful mountain areas in the world. Stay in St. Moritz and enjoy leisure time. Experience the scenic Bernina Express train, which returns you to Italy, and skirt the blue shores of Lake Como. Visit Turin (Torino), recent host of the Winter Olympics. Back in Switzerland, visit car-free Zermatt at the foot of the Matterhorn, then ride on the Glacier Express train to Andermatt. Rejoin your motorcoach and travel to Lake Lucerne for an overnight. Then experience Interlaken and Berne (capital of Switzerland), and conclude your grand adventure in Zürich.

Discover the magic of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest on this amazing vacation. Three overnights in each of these cities set a leisurely pace that lets you truly immerse yourself in the local cultures. Your journey begins in Bavarian Munich, then travel to Nuremberg, famous for its WWII trials; Prague with its Astronomical Clock, Jewish Quarter, Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square; Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital by the Danube River; Budapest with Fishermen’s Bastion; Mayerling, where Archduke Rudolf died tragically at a hunting lodge with his young lover; and Vienna, home of Austria’s State Opera and Hofburg Palace. Then, head west to Mozart’s Salzburg—with its charming Getreidegasse—before motoring back to Munich for the end of your memorable vacation.

Hotel accommodation with full buffet breakfast; Local Host service in each city; Destination Guides; sightseeing with a Local Guide and transportation as outlined in the day-by-day itinerary (inside visits and special features are shown in UPPERCASE); transfers to/from train stations

Hotel accommodation with full buffet breakfast; Local Host service in each city; Destination Guides; sightseeing with a Local Guide and transportation as outlined in the day-by-day itinerary (inside visits and special features are shown in UPPERCASE); transfers to/from train stations.

Hotel accommodation with full buffet breakfast; Local Host service in each city; Destination Guides; sightseeing with a Local Guide and transportation as outlined in the day-by-day itinerary (inside visits and special features are shown in UPPERCASE); transfers to/from train stations.

This vacation consists almost entirely of two-night stays in a variety of famous cities and picturesque towns. Experience Amsterdam through the guided sightseeing and a canal cruise. Enjoy a romantic cruise on the Rhine River, and stop in Cologne, Heidelberg, medieval Rothenburg, and Munich. Stay two nights in Ettal, near the Passion Play village of Oberammergau, and visit beautiful Ettal Abbey, founded in 1330, followed by a liqueur tasting in the company of the abbey monks. Also included is a visit to nearby King Ludwig’s Castle in Neuschwanstein, the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Next, drive through the Alps via Innsbruck to Italy. Stay overnight in Bolzano in the Dolomites, the “Rocky Mountains of Europe,” and join a Prosecco wine tasting in Conegliano before arriving in Venice, where guided sightseeing includes St. Mark’s Basilica and Doges’ Palace with its Bridge of Sighs. From Venice, drive to Lake Maggiore and stop in Stresa, with the possibility to visit enchanting Isola Bella. Enter Switzerland and arrive in car-free Zermatt for an overnight at the foot of the Matterhorn. In the morning, an optional ride on Europe’s highest rack-railway to the Gornergrat is available. Next is French-speaking Montreux, of festival fame, for an overnight stay, before boarding the high-speed TGV train from Lausanne to Paris, where guided sightseeing features a visit to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower and a full day at leisure offers the possibility to visit the Palace of Versailles and the Louvre Museum.

This vacation consists almost entirely of two-night stays in a variety of famous cities and picturesque towns. Experience Amsterdam through the guided sightseeing and a canal cruise. Enjoy a romantic cruise on the Rhine River, and stop in Cologne, Heidelberg, medieval Rothenburg, and Munich. Stay two nights in Ettal, near the Passion Play village of Oberammergau, and visit beautiful Ettal Abbey, founded in 1330, followed by a liqueur tasting in the company of the abbey monks. Also included is a visit to nearby King Ludwig’s Castle in Neuschwanstein, the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Next, drive through the Alps via Innsbruck to Italy. Stay overnight in Bolzano in the Dolomites, the “Rocky Mountains of Europe,” and join a Prosecco wine tasting in Conegliano before arriving in Venice, where guided sightseeing includes St. Mark’s Basilica and Doges’ Palace with its Bridge of Sighs. From Venice, drive to Lake Maggiore and stop in Stresa, with the possibility to visit enchanting Isola Bella. Enter Switzerland and arrive in car-free Zermatt for an overnight at the foot of the Matterhorn. In the morning, an optional ride on Europe’s highest rack-railway to the Gornergrat is available. Next is French-speaking Montreux, of festival fame, for an overnight stay, before boarding the high-speed TGV train from Lausanne to Paris, where guided sightseeing features a visit to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower and a full day at leisure offers the possibility to visit the Palace of Versailles and the Louvre Museum. Finally, hop aboard the high-speed Eurostar train and head north to London for two overnights, guided sightseeing of the major attractions, and free time to enjoy yourself in jolly old England!

Start this amazing family vacation with a welcome dinner, then discover London on a traditional London double-decker bus. See the major sites like Big Ben beside the River Thames, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace. Enjoy a “flight” on the London Eye, the world’s tallest observation wheel with stunning views of the city. Then enjoy time for independent sightseeing. Next, an exciting ride on the high-speed Eurostar train to Paris. Upon arrival, ride the elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower. The next morning, sightseeing with a Local Guide features all the major sites of Paris, like the Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysées, and the Opéra. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral and taste a French crêpe.

Travel to Strasbourg on the border with Germany, and enjoy a canal cruise. Next: Lucerne in the heart of the Alps for a walking tour and excursion to Mount Pilatus, with spectacular panoramic views of central Switzerland. On the way to Austria, visit an original Swiss chocolate confectionary and learn all about chocolate making. Also stop in Vaduz, capital of the Principality of Liechtenstein, before arriving in Innsbruck in Tyrol. See Maximilian’s Golden Roof and enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride. In Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace, visit Hohenwerfen Fortress, which dates to 1077 and where you will learn about traditional hunting methods using birds of prey. In Munich, Germany, guided sightseeing features Marienplatz, and you can try a German brezel. Another highlight is a visit to King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein Castle, used as inspiration for the Disney Castle. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Experience two of Europe’s most famous high-speed trains: the Eurostar train from London to Brussels and the high-speed TGV train from Strasbourg to Paris. Guided sightseeing is included in London, Vienna, Salzburg, and Paris, with included visits to St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, the Strauss House in Vienna, Mirabell Gardens in Salzburg, a ride to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and more. Also stay in Amsterdam, where an included canal cruise is the best way to see the 17th-century capital of Holland; in Germany’s Koblenz with a romantic Rhine River cruise; in Munich, where dinner at the 200-year-old Donisl restaurant gives you a chance to try out traditional Bavarian fare; in Innsbruck, Tyrol’s capital, where a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Alps is included; in picture-book Lucerne, with time to climb a mountain or attend a folklore party; and in the Black Forest, where you will learn all about the cuckoo clock and taste traditional Black Forest Cake. Scenic drives along the Rhine River, past the Salzkammergut area, and through the Alps make this vacation an unforgettable experience.

Experience two of Europe’s most famous high-speed trains: the Eurostar train from London to Brussels and the high-speed TGV train from Strasbourg to Paris. Guided sightseeing is included in London, Vienna, Salzburg, and Paris, with included visits to St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, the Strauss House in Vienna, Mirabell Gardens in Salzburg, a ride to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and more. Also stay in Amsterdam, where an included canal cruise is the best way to see the 17th-century capital of Holland; in Germany’s Koblenz with a romantic Rhine River cruise; in Munich, where dinner at the 200-year-old Donisl restaurant gives you a chance to try out traditional Bavarian fare; in Innsbruck, Tyrol’s capital, where a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Alps is included; in picture-book Lucerne, with time to climb a mountain or attend a folklore party; and in the Black Forest, where you will learn all about the cuckoo clock and taste traditional Black Forest Cake. Scenic drives along the Rhine River, past the Salzkammergut area, and through the Alps make this vacation an unforgettable experience. Finally, hop aboard the high-speed Eurostar train and return to London for free time to enjoy one final night in jolly old England!

This trip from Paris to Amsterdam is paced to give you a quick taste of Europe. Enjoy two-night stays in Paris, Rome, Venice, and Amsterdam, with guided sightseeing in all major cities, like Paris, Florence, Rome, Venice, and Amsterdam. Start with a special welcome dinner with wine at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, followed by a cruise on the Seine River to get a first impression of the “City of Light”. Continue to Switzerland, and stay overnight in German-speaking Lucerne and Italian-speaking Lugano. In Italy, take pictures of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Florence to try out Tuscan specialties, and admire Michelangelo’s David. Visit St. Peter’s, the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, and more in Rome; enjoy a private boat cruise and visits to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doges’ Palace with its Bridge of Sighs in Venice; and stop in Ferrara and Innsbruck. Stay overnight in Munich, and enjoy a stein of beer or spätzi at the famous Hofbräuhaus, dating back to 1589. Visit medieval Rothenburg, stay overnight at the Rhine River, and cruise past the many castles. Stop in Cologne to admire the cathedral and end in Amsterdam, where a canal cruise is the perfect way to see the 17th-century city.

This trip from Paris to Amsterdam is paced to give you a quick taste of Europe. Enjoy two-night stays in Paris, Rome, Venice, and Amsterdam, with guided sightseeing in all major cities, like Paris, Florence, Rome, Venice, and Amsterdam. Start with a special welcome dinner with wine at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, followed by a cruise on the Seine River to get a first impression of the “City of Light”. Continue to Switzerland, and stay overnight in German-speaking Lucerne and Italian-speaking Lugano. In Italy, take pictures of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Florence to try out Tuscan specialties, and admire Michelangelo’s David. Visit St. Peter’s, the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, and more in Rome; enjoy a private boat cruise and visits to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doges’ Palace with its Bridge of Sighs in Venice; and stop in Ferrara and Innsbruck. Stay overnight in Munich, and enjoy a stein of beer or spätzi at the famous Hofbräuhaus, dating back to 1589. Visit medieval Rothenburg, stay overnight at the Rhine River, and cruise past the many castles. Stop in Cologne to admire the cathedral and end in Amsterdam, where a canal cruise is the perfect way to see the 17th-century city. Travel to Brussels, Belgium, for a visit to magnificent Grand’Place, then hop aboard the high-speed Eurostar train to London for two overnights, guided sightseeing of the major attractions, and free time to enjoy yourself in jolly old England!

This trip covers all the “must-see” cities and sights in Europe, but also includes a Eurostar train ride from London to Brussels, a canal cruise in Amsterdam, a Rhine cruise, the Black Forest, the Rhine Falls, Liechtenstein, Innsbruck, Munich, and Salzburg, a private boat transfer in Venice, and stops in Ferrara and Pisa in Italy and Avignon in France. In all cities, visit the stand-out features like St. Paul’s in London; St. Stephen’s in Vienna; St. Mark’s Basilica and Doges’ Palace in Venice; St. Peter’s, the Sistine Chapel, and the Colosseum in Rome; Michelangelo’s David in Florence; and more. In Nice at the Côte d’Azur, enjoy a full day at leisure with the possibility to visit Monte Carlo. In Paris, a visit to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower has been included in your city tour. Special highlights are a wine tasting at the famous Breuer winery, followed by dinner with local specialties, a visit to the Palace of the Popes in Avignon, and a farewell dinner at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, followed by a cruise on the Seine River as a proper Au Revoir, Paris.

This trip covers all the “must-see” cities and sights in Europe, but also includes a Eurostar train ride from London to Brussels, a canal cruise in Amsterdam, a Rhine cruise, the Black Forest, the Rhine Falls, Liechtenstein, Innsbruck, Munich, and Salzburg, a private boat transfer in Venice, and stops in Ferrara and Pisa in Italy and Avignon in France. In all cities, visit the stand-out features like St. Paul’s in London; St. Stephen’s in Vienna; St. Mark’s Basilica and Doges’ Palace in Venice; St. Peter’s, the Sistine Chapel, and the Colosseum in Rome; Michelangelo’s David in Florence; and more. In Nice at the Côte d’Azur, enjoy a full day at leisure with the possibility to visit Monte Carlo. In Paris, a visit to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower has been included in your city tour. Special highlights are a wine tasting at the famous Breuer winery, followed by dinner with local specialties, a visit to the Palace of the Popes in Avignon, and a special dinner at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, followed by a cruise on the Seine River. Finally, hop aboard the high-speed Eurostar train and return to London for free time to enjoy one final night in jolly old England!

Hotel accommodation with full buffet breakfast; Local Host service; Destination Guide; sightseeing with a Local Guide as outlined in the day-by-day itinerary (inside visits and special features are shown in UPPERCASE).

This is a magnificent journey through the former Habsburg Empire. It visits five of Europe’s most intriguing cities, from Munich with its many historic highlights and Marienplatz to the “Golden City” of Prague to visit the 1,000-year-old Hradcany Castle grounds, St. Vitus Cathedral, and more. Travel via Bratislava in the Slovak Republic, where lunch with local specialties awaits you, to Budapest in Hungary and Vienna in Austria. In both cities, a Local Guide will take you into the main cathedrals, and in Vienna, enjoy an entire day at leisure, which gives you the possibility to visit Schönbrunn Palace. A romantic cruise on the Danube River (departures March 30-October 19) includes kaffee and kuchen (coffee and cake), then enter Sound of Music country on your way to Salzburg, where your guided walking tour includes Mozart’s birthplace. A special treat is a taste of a popular local candy, chocolate Mozartkugeln, and dinner at an area restaurant to try out traditional dishes. Then, journey by high-speed train to Berlin for three overnights and guided sightseeing that features the restored Reichstag, Charlottenburg Palace, Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, Checkpoint Charlie, the Holocaust Memorial, a picture stop at Brandenburg Gate, and so much more!

Spend a week exploring the magnificent cities of Munich, Salzburg, and Vienna. In addition to in-depth city sightseeing, a highlight visit is included to King Ludwig’s fairytale Neuschwanstein castle, followed by a lunch of traditional Bavarian specialties like bratwurst or suppe. Via Innsbruck in Tyrol, arrive in Salzburg and visit Mozart’s birthplace. An optional excursion to Berchtesgaden, Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest, is available. Also included is a stop in Mondsee to visit the Parish Church where Maria married Von Trapp in The Sound of Music. Enjoy a romantic Danube cruise with kaffee und kuchen (coffee and cake) on your way to Vienna. Visit magnificent Schönbrunn Palace during your sightseeing tour of this impressive city, and an entire day at leisure allows the possibility to join an optional excursion to Bratislava, capital of Slovakia. A farewell dinner at a local restaurant has been included, followed by a concert in one of Vienna’s elegant concert halls. A lovely trip for romantics.

Sail along the Danube, Main, Rhine, and Moselle Rivers and through the Main Danube Canal and dramatic Rhine Gorge on this remarkable river cruise vacation. Begin your trip with two nights in the vibrant Hungarian capital of Budapest, with guided sightseeing and time to explore the city on your own. Then, set sail and enjoy guided sightseeing that shows off the highlights in each city, including inside visits of Melk’s awe-inspiring Benedictine Abbey, the Bishop’s Residenz in Würzburg, Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum in charming Rüdesheim, and Reichsburg Castle in Cochem. Also participate in a lively beer tasting, attend a traditional onboard baking demonstration in Miltenberg, and travel by high-speed train to Paris, where your vacation concludes with two overnights, guided sightseeing, and plenty of free time to explore the “City of Light” at your own pace!

Sail along the Danube, Main, Rhine, and Moselle Rivers and through the Main Danube Canal and dramatic Rhine Gorge on this remarkable river cruise vacation. From the Hungarian capital of Budapest, set sail and enjoy guided sightseeing that shows off the highlights in each city, including inside visits of Melk’s awe-inspiring Benedictine Abbey, the Bishop’s Residenz in Würzburg, Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum in charming Rüdesheim, and Reichsburg Castle in Cochem. Also participate in a lively beer tasting and attend a traditional onboard baking demonstration in Miltenberg. Disembark in Remich, Luxembourg, where your vacation ends.

Celebrate the Christmas season on this spectacular river cruise vacation from Frankfurt to Vienna. Board your ship in Frankfurt and set sail for the Bavarian village of Miltenberg. Continue to Wertheim to see the half-timbered houses and shop for blown-glass ornaments. In Würzburg, visit the Bishop’s Residenz; discover the nativity scenes built by local citizens in medieval Bamberg; in Nuremberg, enjoy a beer tasting and the festive atmosphere of the beautifully lit streets; explore the vibrant Bavarian capital of Munich; and spend time in medieval Regensburg. Other highlights include delightful Passau and a visit to the awe-inspiring Benedictine Abbey in Melk. Experience the traditional Christmas decorations everywhere and delight in this special time of year. To end your vacation, ring in the New Year in Vienna with a gala New Year’s Eve dinner, then bundle up and watch the city’s marvelous fireworks display from the Sky Deck of your vessel.

Sail along the Moselle, Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers and through the dramatic Rhine Gorge and Main Danube Canal on this remarkable river cruise vacation. Your journey begins with two overnights in Paris, with guided city sightseeing and leisure time to explore the “City of Light” on your own. Then, travel from Paris to Metz via high-speed train and embark your river cruise ship in Remich, Luxembourg. Guided sightseeing in each city shows you the highlights, with inside visits to Reichsburg Castle in Cochem, Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum in charming Rüdesheim, the Bishop’s Residenz in Würzburg, and Melk’s Benedictine Abbey. Other highlights: attend a traditional baking demonstration, pass the legendary Lorelei rock, and participate in a lively beer tasting. All of this and much more await you on this marvelous cruise vacation.

Sail along the Moselle, Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers and through the dramatic Rhine Gorge and Main Danube Canal on this remarkable river cruise vacation. Your journey begins in Remich, Luxembourg, where you embark your river cruise ship. Guided sightseeing in each city shows you the highlights, with inside visits to Reichsburg Castle in Cochem, Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum in charming Rüdesheim, the Bishop’s Residenz in Würzburg, and Melk’s Benedictine Abbey. Other highlights: attend a traditional baking demonstration, pass the legendary Lorelei rock, and participate in a lively beer tasting. All of this and much more await you on this marvelous cruise vacation.

Celebrate the holiday season on this magnificent cruise from Vienna to Frankfurt. Enjoy guided sightseeing in Vienna, Nuremberg, Munich, Bamberg, and Würzburg as well as guided walks in the small town of Dürnstein, medieval Regensburg, and charming Miltenberg. Other highlights: visit the Bishop’s Residence in Würzburg and the spectacular Benedictine Abbey in Melk, enjoy a beer tasting in Bamberg, a wine tasting in Austria’s Wachau Valley, and a baking demonstration of a local soft cookie. Marvel at the traditional Christmas decorations and delight in the festive atmosphere of this special time of year. Wander through the many Christmas markets while you listen to local Christmas music, sample tasty Christmas treats, smell the aromas of the season, and shop for local Christmas ornaments and crafts. What a wonderful way to celebrate the season.

Discover the best of Central Europe during this exciting Christmastime cruise from Vienna to Basel. Start in magical Vienna, where you will enjoy guided sightseeing, free time to explore the Christmas markets, and will embark your cruise vessel. Sail west, stopping in Dürnstein to see the baroque Stiftskirche and in Melk to visit its Benedictine Abbey and sample regional wines. Continue to the busy river port of Linz, delightful Passau, medieval Regensburg, and Nuremberg for guided sightseeing and to experience Germany’s most famous Christmas market. Other highlights include the vibrant Bavarian capital of Munich, German beer tasting in Bamberg, a visit of the magnificent Bishop’s Residenz in Würzburg, and an excursion to the walled city of Rothenburg. Also visit Wertheim to see the half-timbered houses and shop for blown-glass ornaments, Miltenberg for a traditional baking demonstration, and enjoy an excursion to the pretty wine village of Rüdesheim with its outstanding Christmas market and life-sized nativity scene. In Heidelberg, marvel at the imposing red sandstone castle and bask in the holiday atmosphere; enjoy guided sightseeing in Strasbourg, with time to explore one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe; and from Breisach, take an excursion into Germany’s legendary Black Forest.

Discover the best of Central Europe during this exciting Christmastime cruise from Basel to Vienna. You’ll have opportunities to explore the traditional Christmas markets, and soak up the special atmosphere of the festively lit streets and beautifully decorated store windows. Shop for colorful Christmas decorations, sample the tasty treats, sip some warm drinks, listening to the holiday music and cheer, and smell the aromas of freshly baked specialties. Your journey starts in Zürich. Then, travel to Basel to board your ship. Head north to Breisach for an included excursion into Germany’s legendary Black Forest; to Strasbourg, France, for guided sightseeing and time to explore one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe; and to Heidelberg, where you can marvel at the imposing red sandstone castle and bask in the holiday atmosphere. Enjoy an excursion to the pretty wine village of Rüdesheim with its outstanding Christmas market and life-sized nativity scene. Also visit Miltenberg for a traditional baking demonstration, Wertheim to see the half-timbered houses and shop for blown-glass ornaments, and Würzburg to visit the magnificent Bishop’s Residenz. Other highlights include medieval Bamberg to sample delicious German beers, and an excursion to Munich, the vibrant Bavarian capital. Then, on to medieval Regensburg, delightful Passau, and Melk with a visit to its awe-inspiring Benedictine Abbey. To end your vacation, ring in the New Year in Vienna with a gala New Year’s Eve dinner, then bundle up and watch the city’s marvelous fireworks display from the Sky Deck of your vessel.

This incredible adventure begins and ends in cosmopolitan Frankfurt. Enjoy overnight stays in Düsseldorf, the once-divided metropolis of Berlin, Nuremberg, where you will taste the traditional Nüremberger würstel, Munich, the Passion Play town of Oberammergau, and a unique stay in the heart of the Black Forest to learn all about the cuckoo-clock. Much more is included: a romantic Rhine cruise, a first-class train ride on the fast Eurocity train from Düsseldorf to Berlin, a visit to Cologne’s magnificent cathedral, and a beer in the Cölner Hofbräu Früh, one of Cologne’s famous breweries. Also enjoy visits to Bach’s Thomaskirche in Leipzig, romantic Rothenburg, Munich’s Marienplatz, and imposing Heidelberg Castle. A highlight of your vacation: a visit to King Ludwig’s fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle. A full day at leisure in Berlin allows the possibility for an optional excursion to Potsdam. Back in Frankfurt, a farewell dinner at a local restaurant celebrates the success of your vacation.

Be prepared for one breathtaking view after another. This journey starts in Frankfurt and travels via medieval Rothenburg and Munich, where you will visit the Marienplatz, to Austria, where you have sightseeing tours with Local Guides in Salzburg and Vienna. Drive over Semmering Pass into the popular mountain resorts of Carinthia and enjoy an overnight stay in pretty Villach. A highlight is a visit to the world-famous Lipizzaner Stallion Stud Farm. The Dolomites, Cortina d’Ampezzo in Italy, and Brenner Pass to Innsbruck in the Austrian Tyrol are scenic highlights. St. Moritz, Lake Como, and Lake Lugano are next. Enjoy a boat cruise across sparkling Lake Lugano and dinner with wine in a traditional “grotto” restaurant. Proceed to Lake Maggiore, Stresa, and then head over Simplon Pass to return to Switzerland, where you board a mountain train to Zermatt at the foot of the world-famous Matterhorn for your two-night stay. Via the Rhône Valley, Lake Geneva, Berne, Interlaken, and Brunig Pass, arrive in Lucerne for a relaxing two-night stay in this picturesque town. Your vacation is topped off by visits to the Rhine Falls, the Black Forest, and Heidelberg, Germany. Back in Frankfurt, a farewell dinner at a local restaurant celebrates the success of your vacation.

This is a magnificent journey through the former Habsburg Empire. It visits five of Europe’s most intriguing cities, from Munich with its many historic highlights and Marienplatz to the “Golden City” of Prague to visit the 1,000-year-old Hradcany Castle grounds, St. Vitus Cathedral, and more. Travel via Bratislava in the Slovak Republic, where lunch with local specialties awaits you, to Budapest in Hungary and Vienna in Austria. In both cities, a Local Guide will take you into the main cathedrals, and in Vienna, enjoy an entire day at leisure, which gives you the possibility to visit Schönbrunn Palace. A romantic cruise on the Danube River (departures March 30-October 19) includes kaffee and kuchen (coffee and cake), then enter Sound of Music country on your way to Salzburg, where your guided walking tour includes Mozart’s birthplace. A special treat is a taste of a popular local candy, chocolate Mozartkugeln, and dinner at an area restaurant to try out traditional dishes. Then, journey by high-speed train to Berlin for three overnights and guided sightseeing that features the restored Reichstag, Charlottenburg Palace, Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, Checkpoint Charlie, the Holocaust Memorial, a picture stop at Brandenburg Gate, and so much more!

This is the perfect vacation for those who are interested in WWII, historic Poland, and the concentration camps that are living memorials to those days. Start in Warsaw and see the city before and after wartime destruction during a moving film in the Historical Museum. Next, visit Jasna Göra, the monastery near Czestochowa, to admire the Black Madonna, the country’s national symbol. On to Krakow, where a special visit to the Oskar Schindler’s Factory, made famous in the movie Schindler’s List, is included. Visit what is left of the Auschwitz concentration camp, and in Wroclaw, visit the Centennial Hall. Continue to Dresden, badly damaged during the war and since 1985, restored to its baroque splendor. An exclusive visit to the Semper Opera has been included as well as dinner with local specialties in the well-known Am Pulverturm restaurant. Also visit Meissen, Leipzig, Weimar, and via Meissen, with a visit to the porcelain factory, continue to Leipzig. Visit the former Buchenwald concentration camp on your way to Erfurt, and in Nuremberg, visit Soldier’s Field, the impressive documentation center. Taste the traditional Nüremberger würstel before arriving in Munich, where you will visit the former Dachau concentration camp. Enjoy a farewell dinner with your traveling companions to talk and share your feelings after this emotional encounter with WWII.

This is the perfect vacation for those who are interested in WWII, historic Poland, and the concentration camps that are living memorials to those days. Start in Warsaw and see the city before and after wartime destruction during a moving film in the Historical Museum. Next, visit Jasna Göra, the monastery near Czestochowa, to admire the Black Madonna, the country’s national symbol. On to Krakow, where a special visit to the Oskar Schindler’s Factory, made famous in the movie Schindler’s List, is included. Visit what is left of the Auschwitz concentration camp, and in Wroclaw, visit the Centennial Hall. Continue to Dresden, badly damaged during the war and since 1985, restored to its baroque splendor. An exclusive visit to the Semper Opera has been included as well as dinner with local specialties in the well-known Am Pulverturm restaurant. Also visit Meissen, Leipzig, Weimar, and via Meissen, with a visit to the porcelain factory, continue to Leipzig. Visit the former Buchenwald concentration camp on your way to Erfurt, and in Nuremberg, visit Soldier’s Field, the impressive documentation center. Taste the traditional Nüremberger würstel before arriving in Munich, where you will visit the former Dachau concentration camp. Enjoy a special dinner with your traveling companions to talk and share your feelings after this emotional encounter with WWII. Then, journey by high-speed train to Berlin for three overnights and guided sightseeing that features the restored Reichstag, Charlottenburg Palace, Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, Checkpoint Charlie, the Holocaust Memorial, a picture stop at Brandenburg Gate, and so much more!

This is a very special trip focused on Martin Luther. Start your wonderful vacation in Berlin, where you will visit Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church and take pictures of Brandenburg Gate and the Holocaust Memorial. In Wittenberg, where Martin Luther lived and the birthplace of the Reformation, visit the Luther House; St. Mary’s Church, where Luther got married and baptized his children; and Luther’s Tomb in the Castle Church, where Luther launched the Reformation in 1517. Continue to Leipzig and visit the Thomaskirche, where J.S. Bach worked. Also included are visits to the Augustinian Monastery in Erfurt, where Luther lived as a monk; Wartburg Castle, where Luther translated the Bible; Coburg Fortress, one of the largest surviving medieval fortresses in Germany; and the Gutenberg Museum in Mainz, where original copies of the Bible can be seen.

Arrive in Worms, where the Imperial Council passed judgment on Luther in 1521. Visit the cathedral where Luther presented his case, Trinity Church, and the famed Reformation Monument. Follow Luther’s footsteps to Nuremberg, the first town to accept the Reformation in 1525, and to Augsburg, where Luther and his followers proclaimed their beliefs.

Other tour highlights include a Rhine River cruise along the prettiest part of the Rhine Valley; a stop in the medieval walled town of Rothenburg, famous for its Christmas ornaments; and time in Munich, with an opportunity to see Marienplatz with its famous glockenspiel. An optional excursion to King Ludwig’s Linderhof Castle and the Passion Play town of Oberammergau is also available.

This is an educational and marvelous vacation sure to delight!

Willkommen in Deutschland – Welcome to Germany! On this spectacular cruise vacation, enjoy one of Germany’s largest cities, Munich, and many of its charming villages and towns with picturesque scenery along the way. Visit two of King Ludwig’s most famous castles—Neuschwanstein, the inspiration for Disneyland’s Castle, and Linderhof, the smallest of his castles. Savor beer tasting in Nuremberg and explore Regensburg, one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities and home to Germany’s oldest restaurant. Enjoy the picturesque Bavarian village of Miltenberg with its medieval homes, and explore La Petite France district in Strasbourg.

Cruise through the Rhine Gorge, the most dramatic part of the river, and drive through the garden-like landscapes of the Bavarian Alps. This is just a sampling of the scenic wonders and delightful destinations waiting for you to discover on this cruise—a memorable vacation!

On this marvelous cruise vacation, visit Austria’s capital, Vienna, and be delighted by its charming small towns—like Melk, Dürnstein, and Grein—before heading into Germany’s Bavaria. First, enjoy Vienna, with its spectacular museums, awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and delightful music. In Dürnstein, explore the small town above which stand the ruins of the castle where King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192. Visit magnificent Melk Abbey, and Grein’s quaint historical theater. In Germany, visit the Bavarian capital of Munich, the charming town of Oberammergau, and the fairytale castles of Neuschwanstein and Linderhof. All of this and much more await you on this wonderful cruise on the Danube River through Austria’s highlights and Bavaria—it’s a vacation of a lifetime!