54aad3330bb76 munichsalzburgandvienna2015 1 5 by Go Real Europe

An Adventure in Europe Specially created for Jane Example and John Example Itinerary Preview Munich, Salzburg, and Vienna June 01 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; June 10, 2015

ITINERARY OVERVIEW Members of the Travel Group: Jane Example and John Example 1. This is only a summary of your trip! Full-length itineraries include destination information, travel directions, maps, pictures, tips, and other details. 2. Select “Hotels” on your client dashboard to see hotel pictures and descriptions.

Pre-Paid Tours and Activities: • Guided Full-Day Excursion to the Neuschwanstein Castle

• Guided Walking Tour of Salzburg • Guided Walk through Vienna’s Inner City

Pre-Paid Transportation: • 2nd Class Train Tickets from Munich to Salzburg

• 2nd Class Train Tickets from Salzburg to Vienna • Public Transport Tickets for Vienna

Pre-Paid Hotels, including Daily Breakfast: • 3 nights in the (Hotel T.B.D.) in Munich

• 3 nights in the (Hotel T.B.D.) in Vienna

• 3 nights in the (Hotel T.B.D.) in Salzburg

Travel Information included in your itinerary: • City Maps of Vienna • Point to point travel directions

• Free Skype calling to landlines worldwide, and to mobile phones in the U.S. and Canada

• Destination information & travel advice

Total Trip Cost for All Travelers:

N/A e

Please see payment details and travel conditions here.

ITINERARY CONTENTS 1 June 01, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Arrival in Munich Airport and Transfer to Hotel by Taxi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Self Guided Visit to Munich’s Altstadt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2 June 02, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tour of the Residence Palace . . . . . . . . . . . Stroll through the English Garden . . . . . . . . The Hofbräuhaus, Munich’s Famed Beerhall . .

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3 June 03, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Guided Full-Day Bus Excursion to the Neuschwanstein Castle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4 June 04, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Taxi Transfer to the Munich Main Rail Station . . . . . . . Rail Journey from Munich to Salzburg . . . . . . . . . . . Arrival in Salzburg and Transfer to Hotel by Public Taxi . Guided Walking Tour of Salzburg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Self Guided Visit to the Fortress Hohensalzburg . . . . .

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5 June 05, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Self Guided Visit to the Altstadt (Old Town) . . . . . . . . . . . . . Self Guided Visit to the Neustadt and Mirabell Palace Gardens . . Visit to the Mönchsberg and the Augustinian Beer Hall . . . . . .

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6 June 06, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Self Guided Excursion to the Peak of the Untersberg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Visit to the Hellbrunn Palace and Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 7 June 07, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Self-Arranged Taxi Transfer to Salzburg Main Train Station for Rail Departure . Rail Journey from Salzburg to Vienna on Westbahn Railways . . . . . . . . . . Arrival in Vienna’s Westbahnhof Station and Transfer to Hotel by Public Taxi . Guided Walk through Vienna’s Inner City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Self Guided Visit to Vienna’s Inner City (Innere Stadt) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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8 June 08, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Visit to the Schönbrunn Palace and Park . . . . . . . Self Guided Visit to the Ringstrasse . . . . . . . . . . Self Guided Visit to the Wine Village of Grinzing . . .

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9 June 09, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Self Guided Visit to Imperial Vienna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Self Guided Visit to the Karlskirche and Belvedere Palace . . . . . . . . . . Hip Vienna: Self Guided visit to the Naschmarkt and Museum Quarter . .

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10 June 10, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Self-Arranged Taxi Transfer to the Vienna Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

DAY 1

June 01, 2015

Arrive Munich

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Arrival in Munich Airport and Transfer to Hotel by Taxi To Be Determined For your arrival in Munich we will provide information on the customs and passport procedures. We will also provide advice on taking a taxi to your hotel, including an estimate of the cost and time of the ride to your hotel. We will also provide some very basic directions for taking rail service into central Munich to save on the taxi fare. Included: Arrival and transfer advice. Not Included: Taxi fare (about 65 EUR)

Self Guided Visit to Munich’s Altstadt Afternoon Munich boasts a large old town (Altstadt) with many beautiful historic buildings. Sometimes called the world’s largest village, it is a perfect place to wander. You will discover many Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings, as well as several stunning examples of modern architecture. Pleasant cafes, beer halls, cozy restaurants, and great shopping all add to the charming atmosphere. The heart of the Altstadt is the Marianplatz. This historic square is home to the New Town Hall and has been the center of Munich since the Middle Ages. The New Town Hall features a famous Glockenspiel clock tower, which at 11 A.M. and noon sends forth 32 life-sized ﬁgures to reenact Bavarian history. A golden bird chirps 3 times to mark the end of the display. Nearby is also the massive Frauenkirche Cathedral. This Gothic church can hold over 20,000 worshippers and a climb to its lofty bell tower affords a breathtaking view of the city and, in good weather, the nearby Alps. Munich is not a “full service” Go Real Europe destination. Itineraries only provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel directions in Munich.

DAY 2

June 02, 2015

Munich

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Tour of the Residence Palace Morning The Munich Residenz was the seat of government for Bavaria’s Dukes and Kings from 1508 to 1918. Originally a medieval castle, it was transformed over the centuries into a beautiful palace. Today it is open to the public and you can explore its magniﬁcent interiors, numerous courtyards, and elegant garden. The living quarters of the royal family have been transformed into a museum which provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Kings and Queens. In the treasury museum you can also see the many precious jewels and great works of art which Bavaria’s rulers collected. Munich is not a “full service” Go Real Europe destination. Itineraries only provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel directions in Munich. Entry into the palace is not included (7 EUR).

Stroll through the English Garden Afternoon The English Garden is one of Europe’s largest parks; in fact it is larger than New York’s Central Park. While it is called the “English Garden” after the style of the park, it was actually designed by an American, and is now a symbol of the very Bavarian city of Munich. The park is a perfect place to escape the city for a long stroll, where you can enjoy the natural scenery and the people watching. You can even enjoy a refreshing swim in the river Eisbach, which ﬂows through the middle of the park, or rent a paddle boat for a cruise on Lake Kleinhesseloher. When you are ready for some refreshment, you can ﬁnd several large beer gardens in the park, where you can mix with the locals and enjoy some of Munich’s famous brews. Munich is not a “full service” Go Real Europe destination. Itineraries only provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel directions in Munich.

The Hofbräuhaus, Munich’s Famed Beerhall Evening The Hofbräuhaus is Munich’s most famous beer hall, which in fact, makes it the world’s most famous beer hall. The Hofbräuhaus was founded as the Bavarian king’s royal brewery over 400 years ago. In the beer hall you and up to 1,300 other revelers will sit on long wooden benches, many of them over a hundred years old themselves. Musicians will play Bavarian polkas and the atmosphere is only made more festive by the waiters and waiters dressed in traditional garb, balancing 5

DAY 2

June 02, 2015

Munich

(Hotel T.B.D.)

trays filled with huge liter-sized beer steins. With all that beer, you will need something to fill your stomach as well, but luckily there is plenty of hearty and filling Bavarian cuisine to choose from as well. Munich is not a “full service” Go Real Europe destination. Itineraries only provide a brief summary of attractions and very basic travel directions in Munich.

DAY 3

June 03, 2015

Munich

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Guided Full-Day Bus Excursion to the Neuschwanstein Castle Full Day Inspiration for the Disney Castles, numerous fairy tales, and countless dreamers, the Castle of Neuschwanstein is probably the most famous castle in the world. Perched on a peak in the foothills of the Alps, the setting provides the perfect backdrop to the spiraling towers and turrets of the castle. On this full day excursion, you will not only visit this amazing castle, but also another fantastic creation of its builder, King Ludwig II of Bavaria. In his Linderhof Palace you will discover an elegant palace surrounded by a beautiful park. You will learn about how the shy, reclusive, and eccentric (some even say mad) king built the castle and palace to escape society and pursue his favorite passions â&#x20AC;&#x201C; such as Wagnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s operas. Your trip will also include a stop to the charming Bavarian village of Oberammergau. Oberammergau is home to a famous Passion Play, staged only once each ten years, which draws visitors from around the world. THIS IS NOT A PRIVATE TOUR Included: Cost of the guided tour and bus transportation. Not Included: Entry into individual sites (23 EUR per person)

DAY 4

June 04, 2015

Munich to Salzburg

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Taxi Transfer to the Munich Main Rail Station 8:34 AM Munich taxis are generally reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. If you are picked up one hour prior to departure, you should have plenty of time to catch your train. Included: Instructions on taking a taxi to the rail station, instructions for ﬁnding your train. Not included: Taxi fare.

Rail Journey from Munich to Salzburg 09:34 – 11:02 by Rail Tickets and seat reservations will be included with the purchase of your itinerary for this approximately one and a half hour rail journey. Detailed directions and instructions that make the trip easy and stress free will also be provided in your full itinerary. Included: Tickets, seat reservations.

Arrival in Salzburg and Transfer to Hotel by Public Taxi 11:02 AM Upon arrival in Salzburg, you will exit the rail station and proceed to the taxi stand where you will ﬁnd taxis waiting for arriving passengers. Taxis in Salzburg are generally reliable and honest, and are less expensive than using a pre-arranged pick up service for your transfer to the Hotel. Detailed arrival information and instructions for taking a taxi are provided in the Full Length itinerary with purchase of an itinerary. Included: Arrival information and instructions. TAXI FARE IS NOT INCLUDED

Guided Walking Tour of Salzburg 1:30-4:00 PM Salzburg is simply overwhelming in all the best ways. It is alive with fascinating history, grandiose and sublime architecture ﬁlls every street and square, culture and music permeate the atmosphere, and it is surrounded by breath-taking natural scenery. This guided tour with a local will provide the context needed to bring all of this beauty into perspective, and to connect the physical city to its history, culture, and environment. You will hear how Salzburg’s strategic position on the 8

DAY 4

June 04, 2015

Munich to Salzburg

(Hotel T.B.D.)

river Salzach led to the founding of a castle in the early Middle Ages, giving Salzburg its name (Salt-castle) and an important role in the medieval salt trade. Your tour will visit some of central Europe’s oldest architecture and will pass through narrow streets lined by the charming homes built by prosperous merchants. You will also learn how Salzburg’s position as an independent prince-bishopric led it to create not only many beautiful churches, but also stout defenses and ambitious public works. Of course you will also discover how Salzburg become synonymous with classical music. You will see Mozart’s birthplace and hear his story, and see the site of the world’s most famous musical festival, which many visitors will recall from the Sound of Music. Included: Private Guided tour, including entry into the Salzburg cathedral. Not included: Entry into the interiors of any paid sites.

Self Guided Visit to the Fortress Hohensalzburg Late Afternoon The Festung Hohensalzburg (roughly translated as the High Salzburg Fortress) dominates Salzburg, appearing simultaneously formidable and enticing. From one side of the fortress you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the city, and from the other a beautiful view of the nearby Alps. A fortress has been located at this location since Roman times, although the current fortress dates its history back to the 11th century A.D. In the Renaissance the fortress was enlarged and its exterior has remained mostly unchanged since then. The state rooms of the fortress are richly decorated with intricate Gothic wood-carvings and Renaissance ornamental paintings. In addition to touring the fortress state rooms, you can also visit the Fortress Museum, a Marionette Museum, the torture Chamber, an observation tower, and more. An audio tour is available which covers many of these sites. The fortress was never taken by force, even though it was not for a lack of trying. Luckily for you, today you can easily reach the fortress by a steep funicular railway that leaves from Salzburg’s Altstadt. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the sites and history of the fortress. Not Included: Cost of entry (8.00 EUR - 11.30 EUR)

DAY 5

June 05, 2015

Salzburg

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Self Guided Visit to the Altstadt (Old Town) Morning Filled with narrow lanes, elegant squares, and an abundance of ornate baroque architecture, Salzburg is certainly one of Europe’s most beautiful towns. Although its growth was initially fueled by salt from nearby mines (Salzburg means salt mountain), the town is now associated with music, Catholic churches, and baroque architecture. For Americans, it was made famous by the movie Sound of Music, but most Austrians remain completely unaware of the movie. An independent bishopric until becoming part of Austria in 1816, Salzburg has always had a keen sense of local identity. Ironically however, its charm, hospitality, cultural heritage, and the beauty of its natural surroundings have made it into a symbol of Austria as a whole. The Altstadt is where Mozart was born and music continues to be closely associated with it. It possesses an amazing wealth of Baroque buildings due to the fact that during the 17th and 18th centuries its bishop rulers focused on beautifying and enriching their town, and attempted to stay out of the foreign conflicts that often surrounded them on all sides. A series of squares runs through the town, and you will find that all the squares are dominated by a beautiful church. Throughout the Altstadt you will find markets, pleasant shops, and cozy restaurants. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area.

Self Guided Visit to the Neustadt and Mirabell Palace Gardens Afternoon TOP SITES: MIRABELL PALACE AND GARDENS, LINZERGASSE (STREET), ST. SEBASTIAN’S CEMETERY On the right bank of Salzach river lies the Neustadt, or New Town in English. Although it may be slightly newer than the Altstadt, it still boasts hundreds of years of history in it’s winding and narrow Medieval lanes. The Mirabell Palace, a Baroque masterpiece built in 1606 by the Prince Archbishop of Salzburg for his concubine, is the most famous site in the Neustadt. As impressive as the palace and its interior are, the elaborate gardens surrounding the palace are more famous than the palace itself. In the gardens you will ﬁnd statues of pegasus, unicorns, lions and other exotic animals, a dwarf garden, grand staircases, and other picturesque spots. Sound of Music fans may remember the garden from the movie, as this is where several parts of the “Do-Re-Me” song were ﬁlmed. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area.

DAY 5

June 05, 2015

Salzburg

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Visit to the Mönchsberg and the Augustinian Beer Hall Evening Although tiny in comparison to the mountains of the nearby Alps, the Mönchsberg (Monk’s Mountain) dominates the Altstadt. While the highest portion of the mountain is occupied by the Fortress Hohensalzburg, the rest of the mountain is covered by idyllic forests and pastures, romantic homes, and castle ruins. A stroll through this enchanting landscape also affords numerous beautiful views of Salzburg’s Altstadt below. Perhaps best of all, it can all be enjoyed away from the crowds of the city. At the foot of the Mönchsberg, in the village-like neighborhood of Mülln, lies Austria’s largest beer hall. Since 1621 it has served the famously delicious brew of the Augustinian monks. Although it attracts many visitors, it remains a favorite among locals. Even if you don’t drink beer, it is still a great way to try some traditional Austrian cuisine and mingle with locals in a wonderfully authentic atmosphere. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Not Included: Beer or meal in the beer hall.

DAY 6

June 06, 2015

Salzburg

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Self Guided Excursion to the Peak of the Untersberg Morning The nearly 6,000 foot high Untersberg is Salzburg’s nearest Alpine Mountain, and a visit to its peak is the perfect way to experience the Alps without traveling too far. Don’t worry, there’s no need to bring your climbing gear. You can take a bus from Salzburg to the base of the mountain, and then take an exhilarating cable lift ride all the way to the limestone summit. There you will ﬁnd a stupendous view of the Alps spread out before you, and if you feel like wandering a bit, a network of rocky trails spreads out from the summit. If you aren’t in the mood for a hike, you can just enjoy the view some more and have a meal or a drink in a mountain top restaurant. Included: Detailed travel directions and information for an easy and stress free trip. Not Included: Local bus fare (2.30 EUR), Lift tickets (21 EUR).

Visit to the Hellbrunn Palace and Gardens Afternoon Built as a summer palace by Salzburg’s Prince-Bishop, the Hellbrunn Palace is a picturesque palace surrounded by even more beautiful gardens. The early baroque palace was built exclusively for the purpose of entertainment, as the Prince-Bishop would actually return to Salzburg in the evening. It can be toured with an audio guide and includes several beautiful frescoed ceilings. There is a great deal to discover in the gardens - hidden grottos, clever statues, reﬂecting pools, as well ﬂora and fauna. What’s more, the gardens are also home to famous Wasserspiele, trick water fountains that never fail to delight, astonish, and befuddle. The fountains were actually built with the express purpose of playing practical jokes on guests, and they continue to provide plenty of amusement today. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Not Included: Entry to the gardens and palace (10.50 EUR)

DAY 7

June 07, 2015

Salzburg to Vienna

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Self-Arranged Taxi Transfer to Salzburg Main Train Station for Rail Departure 8:52 AM Your hotel front desk will also be happy to arrange a taxi pick up for you. Salzburg taxis are generally reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. Your itinerary will provide more information on ordering a taxi, as well as detailed information on navigating the train station and ﬁnding your train, making the whole process simple and stress free. Included: Instructions on taking a taxi to the rail station, instructions for ﬁnding your train. Not included: Taxi fare.

Rail Journey from Salzburg to Vienna on Westbahn Railways 09:52 – 12:22 by Rail Tickets and seat reservations for this scenic two and a half hour journey to Vienna are included with purchase of an itinerary. The journey is aboard a comfortable, modern train with wi-ﬁ. The verdant rolling countryside of northern Austria makes for a pleasant voyage, and on clear days, you can also enjoy a view on the Alps in the distance. You will also receive detailed instructions for the voyage, as well as a translation and explanation of your tickets. Included: Tickets, seat reservations (in an open seating system), and detailed travel information.

Arrival in Vienna’s Westbahnhof Station and Transfer to Hotel by Public Taxi 12:22 PM Upon arrival in Vienna, you will exit the rail station and proceed to the taxi stand where you will ﬁnd taxis waiting for arriving passengers. Taxis in Vienna are generally reliable and honest, and are less expensive than using a pre-arranged pick up service for your transfer to the Hotel. Detailed arrival information and instructions for taking a taxi are provided in the Full Length itinerary with purchase of an itinerary. Included: Arrival information and instructions. TAXI FARE IS NOT INCLUDED

DAY 7

June 07, 2015

Salzburg to Vienna

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Guided Walk through Vienna’s Inner City 2:00-4:30 PM This tour takes you back in history to explore the Vienna that stood within the old city walls. You will learn about the humble beginnings of Vienna before it became the capital of a great empire and one of the most important cities in Europe. You will discover how Vienna’s early inhabitants lived and how they left their mark on the city and its beautiful Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Your guide will discuss illustrious former residents such as Emperors and Empresses, but will also tell stories of ordinary Viennese who helped to create a great city of trade and commerce. You will also learn about the tragic end of Vienna’s Medieval Jewish community. At the end of your tour, your guide will give you his or her personal recommendations for restaurants in Vienna which capture its sense of history and charm. Included: Private Guided Walking Tour.

Self Guided Visit to Vienna’s Inner City (Innere Stadt) Evening TOP SITES: ST. STEPHEN’S CATHEDRAL, THE GRABEN, MOZART HOUSE, CHURCH OF ST. PETER When the Viennese say they are going “into the city”, they are talking about the Inner City (Innere Stadt). The Inner City corresponds to Vienna’s original medieval city, which was once surrounded by defensive walls that stood where the Ringstrasse (Ring Street) now runs. A warren of medieval alleyways crowded into the protected space between the walls, creating a dense network of pedestrian streets that remains to this day. Now these narrow lanes hum with constant excitement as a tremendous assortment of restaurants, cafes, bars, and fashionable shops fill the ground floors of beautiful historic buildings. Among many other historic attractions, the Inner City is home to the magnificent Gothic Cathedral of St. Stephan (Stephansdom), which has become the most lasting and recognized symbol of the city. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Map marked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest in the area.

DAY 8

June 08, 2015

Vienna

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Visit to the Schönbrunn Palace and Park Morning The magnificent Baroque palace of Schönbrunn is most famously associated with the Empress Maria Theresa, who lived here surrounded by her administrators, retainers, and 16 little archdukes and duchesses who also happened to be her children. On your tour of the palace, you will see numerous reminders of Maria Theresa, as well as many of its other past imperial residents. The grounds surrounding the palace form a beautiful park with a mix of formal gardens and woodlands. Throughout the park you will find enchanting fountains and statues. On a rise opposite the palace sits the Gloriette pavilion. From there you can take in a wonderful view - the meticulously groomed green park draws your eye to the graceful yellow Schönbrunn Palace, and then to the red roofs of the city stretched out beyond. If you have kids, you will definitely want to visit the labyrinth and its adjoining playground, although even without kids it can be great fun. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Not Included: Cost of entry into the palace interior (about $15 USD) or labyrinth (about $6 USD). Entry to the park is free.

Self Guided Visit to the Ringstrasse Afternoon TOP SITES: RING STREET TRAMS, CITY HALL, NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, ART HISTORY MUSEUM The Ringstrasse, or the Ring Street, surrounds Vienna’s old town where the city walls once stood. The Austro-Hungarian Empire was at the height of its prosperity when the monumental buildings which line the Ringstrasse were built in the late 19th century. In this section of the Ringstrasse, you can see some of the most impressive of these buildings, including the neo-Gothic town hall, which is particularly magniﬁcent when lit up in the evening hours. The large park and square in front of the town hall also serves as one of the city’s favorite gathering places. A visit to the Kunsthistorisches (Art History) Museum or the Naturhistorisches Museum (Natural History) Museum, both of which are both located on the Ringstrasse, is particularly rewarding. Another fun experience is to take a tram ride around the entire length of the Ringstrasse. From the strassenbahn line you can relax and soak in the full richness of the spectacle. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Map marked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest in the area.

DAY 8

June 08, 2015

Vienna

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Self Guided Visit to the Wine Village of Grinzing Evening Nothing better symbolizes the Viennese love of “gemütlichkeit” (roughly translated as coziness) than the wine villages and vinyards which hug the gentle slopes beneath the Vienna woods. They are home to wine taverns known as Heurigen. The Viennese come to the Heurigen to while away warm evenings drinking wine, listen to musicians play traditional Viennese tunes (Wienerlieder), and enjoy each other’s conversation and company. The most famous of the wine villages is Grinzing, which is easily reached from the city center by tram. Despite its closeness to the city center, a visit to Grinzing seems to transport you to the countryside, as quaint cottages and cozy old farmhouses create a charming village atmosphere. Included: Directions to Grinzing (including tram tickets), Tips on ordering wine and food. Not Included: The cost of meals and drinks.

DAY 9

June 09, 2015

Vienna

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Self Guided Visit to Imperial Vienna Morning TOP SITES: SPANISH RIDING SCHOOL, IMPERIAL TREASURY, ALBERTINA MUSEUM, BURGGARTEN, STATE OPERA HOUSE In this area of Vienna you will discover the very heart of the Habsburg Empire that once covered most of central Europe. Much of this district is consumed by the vast Hofburg Palace complex, once home to Austria’s emperors and their administrators. Majestically stunning, the buildings of the Hofburg still evoke awe in the observer even if the Empire they were built for is now long gone. Within the Hofburg you will ﬁnd many of the city’s top attractions, including the nearly 500 year old Spanish Riding School, which stages equestrian performances by the famous Lipizzaner Stallions. You can also visit the imperial apartments, gaze upon the imperial crown and other treasures, or browse through the imperial silver collection. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Map marked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest in the area. For those interested in the Spanish Riding School entry to Morning Exercises costs 14 EUR.

Self Guided Visit to the Karlskirche and Belvedere Palace Afternoon TOP SITES: KARLSKIRCHE (CHARLES’ CHURCH), BELVEDERE PALACES AND GARDEN Southeast of the Ringstrasse you will find two of Vienna’s greatest treasures - the Belvedere Palace and the Karlskirche (St. Charles’s Church). More than just a Viennese treasure, the Belvedere and Karlskirche are actually two of the Europe’s most significant examples of Baroque architecture. The Belvedere is actually two palaces connected by a formal 3-level garden designed in the French style. A visit to the garden offers many delights to the senses with its playful fountains, multi-tiered design, and setting amidst the two elaborate palaces. The palaces now house works of art, including a permanent exhibition which includes the most famous works of Gustav Klimt, such as “The Kiss”. Many consider the Karlskirche second only to St. Peter’s Basilica among baroque churches. What makes a visit to the Karlskirche especially notable is that you can ride an elevator up into the cupola of the church and then climb stairs up to the very top of the church, where you can examine the dome’s magnificent frescoes up close.

DAY 9

June 09, 2015

Vienna

(Hotel T.B.D.)

Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Mapmarked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest inthe area. Not Included: Entry fee to visit the palace (approx. 11 EUR) or church (8 EUR) interiors.

Hip Vienna: Self Guided visit to the Naschmarkt and Museum Quarter Late Afternoon/Evening TOP SITES: NASCHMARKT, LEOPOLD MUSEUM, THE MUSEUM QUARTER The Naschmarkt is a long narrow market which has occupied this area since the 1500’s. The market is over a kilometer long and is filled with a delightful variety of booths and small shops selling cheeses, meats, fresh fruits & vegetables, spices, and other exotic foods from around the world. You can also find souvenirs and other interesting tidbits. If you need a break from shopping, a number of nice sit-down cafes and restaurants are located within the market. On Saturdays the market is extended even further by a huge flea market. In the flea market you will find paintings, beer steins, heirlooms, and other great finds to make your friends back home jealous. Near the market you will find perhaps the most fun spot in all of Vienna - the Museumsquartier. Once home to the Imperial Stables, the Museumsquartier is now home to several museums. In typical Viennese fashion, the courtyard of the Museumsquartier has been transformed into an open air entertainment district. A delightful mix of unpretentious cafes and bars attracts visitors to the Museumsquartier long after the museums have all closed. Included: Travel directions, tips, and information on the area. Map marked with attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest in the area.

DAY 10

June 10, 2015

Depart Vienna

Self-Arranged Taxi Transfer to the Vienna Airport To Be Determined Vienna taxis are generally reliable and honest, so taking a taxi is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. Your hotel will be happy to arrange a pick up for you. If you are picked up three hours prior to departure, you should have plenty of time to catch your flight. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen minutes or so. Included: Advice on taking a taxi and contact information for a fixed price taxi service, as well as advice on ordering a pre-arranged private transfer for those who wish to do so. TAXI FARE IS NOT INCLUDED