Austria

Vienna, also described as Europe’s cultural capital, is a metropolis with unique charm, vibrancy and flair. It boasts outstanding infrastructure, is clean and safe, and has all the inspiration that you could wish for. Vienna is a dream city for anyone with a romantic streak or an interest in history. Wander along narrow, medieval alleyways or across imperial squares, view Schönbrunn Palace or the Imperial Palace (Hofburg) in the footsteps of Sissi and Emperor Franz Josef, and marvel at the majestic architecture along the Ring boulevard. Be inspired by an atmosphere steeped in history – which also boasts the comforts and infrastructure of a modern city! Vienna has been synonymous with music for centuries, and was home to Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert and Johann Strauss. This outstanding musical heritage has been preserved right to the present day. The Wiener Philharmoniker is one of the world’s top orchestras, the Vienna Boys’ Choir is triumphantly successful wherever it tours, and the Vienna Conservatorium has produced innumerable international award-winners in all musical disciplines.

Day 1 Arrival and Day at Leisure

Arrival at Vienna airport, where you are met and transferred to the 4 star Hotel Altstadt Vienna (or similar 4 star hotel) with accommodation in superior room including breakfast daily.

Day 2 Big Bus Vienna Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Soak up 360-degree views of Vienna’s top attractions with a 2-day hop-on hop-off tour on a double-decker Big Bus. Pass Schönbrunn Palace, St Stephen’s Cathedral, the Belvedere, and more. Enjoy your choice between a classic, premium, or deluxe ticket option, along with access to two sightseeing routes, audio commentary on board, free wifi, and one walking tour. See this vibrant city at your own pace, hopping on and off at any of the stops. The deluxe upgrade also includes a panoramic night tour and scenic river cruise on the Danube. If you’d like to sit back, relax and watch the world go by, stay on board for the 1.5-hour loop. To discover Vienna on foot, hop off at any of the stops. Soak up the imperial architecture, the blue waters of the Danube or check out the delectable cake shops and cafes. See the former residence of the Habsburg dynasty at the Hofburg Palace, and have your camera on hand to capture St Stephen’s Cathedral. Other top attractions include Schönbrunn Palace, the Vienna State Opera and more.

Day 3 Wachau Valley Tour

Spend a day away from Vienna to discover the picturesque Wachau Valley in the Austrian countryside on this small-group tour. Satisfy your cravings with a delicious lunch at a traditional Heurige (wine tavern). With your expert guide, visit stunning villages and historical sites like the UNESCO World Heritage-listed medieval town of Dürnstein made famous by Richard the Lionheart and go for a wine tasting in a small local winery. Then, you’ll see the the Wachau Valley from another perspective on a 70-minute scenic Danube river cruise (May to September only) between the historic villages of Spitz and Melk.

Leaving Vienna, travel in a comfortable vehicle to the country’s best winemaking region, the Wachau Valley for a guided day tour. Renowned for its quality wines, stunning villages and breathtaking scenery, it is the perfect place to enjoy a day away from the city. Learn about its fascinating culture and history and sampling local wine as well as some other delicacies like the valley’s famed local specialties. You’ll break away from the crowds to also see the more authentic and off-the-beaten-track landscapes. You also have the chance to visit the valley’s oldest church, dating back to the year 987.
Arrive in Dürnstein. There, enjoy some free time to explore the streets and the castle ruins. Afterwards you’ll go for lunch in a traditional family-run Austrian wine tavern (not included).

On a relaxing 70-minute scenic Danube river cruise from Spitz to Melk, you’ll take in the Wachau Valley from yet another perspective—the middle of the majestic River Danube. Before returning back to Vienna, you’ll see Melk Abbey (Stift Melk) – entrance included during the winter months, a world-famous Benedictine abbey founded in 1089. Located above the town of Melk on a rocky outcrop, this impressive monastic site boasts stunning views of the Danube river down below.

Day 4 Departure

This trip includes:
3 nights at 4* Hotel Altstadt Vienna (or similar) in superior room with Breakfast Daily
Tours Mentioned above
Roundtrip airport/rail station to hotel transportation

This trip doesn’t include:
Travel insurance
Meals and beverages not indicated in “The rate includes”
Local city tax
Entry fees to sights and museums unless noted
Transportation to tour meeting points and from tour end point unless noted
Tips/Gratuity
Airfare