Tour Suggestion
Museums, concerts, art and architecture. This exploration of fine culture and artistry, steeped with musical learning and performance, is specially-curated for those who wish to engage in truly meaningful and enriching travel. Take the stage in a variety of illustrious, historical buildings, feeling the thrill of performance in these spectacular settings. Hand-picked excursions to specialty workshops, master classes and music conservatories create the ultimate environment for enjoyable education and personal improvement. Contribute to others through the power of music while indulging your sense of adventure and excitement.
Day 1: Berlin
Welcome to the vibrant, dynamic city of Berlin, a city famous for its diversity and exciting culture. Your tour guide will meet you at the airport, where you will begin your adventure with a private tour of Berlin. As you traverse the illustrious Unter den Linden Avenue, marvel at the many historical sites of importance, such as the imposing Brandenburg Gate and the gorgeous and culturally vital Museum Island. A stop at the poignant Checkpoint Charlie will provide insight into Berlin's turbulent political and cultural past.
Enjoy lunch with your tour companions. Berlin's culturally diverse food scene offers delicious options for every taste and budget.
This afternoon, you may choose to explore the uniquely charming and historic Museum Island, an amazing island literally located in the middle of the Spree River. View the charming architecture of the museums located here on the island and discover the vast myriad of treasures and artefacts within. From the archeological wonders of Ancient Egypt and Greece to the art of modern times, these museums offer immense opportunity for learning and enjoyment.
Another option for this afternoon is the cultural experience of The Story of Berlin. This amazingly unique museum offers visitors a full immersion into Berlin's life and history. Feel like a true citizen of Berlin as you experience historical events as they unfolded over the past eight centuries. This multi-disciplinary experience will leave you inspired and enlightened.
Coach transfer to your hotel for check-in.
Revel in a welcome dinner with your tour companions at the hotel.
Overnight in Berlin.
Day 2: Berlin
This morning, an exciting visit to The Berlin Hochschule fuer Musik, one of the premier music school of Germany, will be certain to educate and entertain. Master classes in a range of disciplines offer students the opportunity to finely tune their art. The specially-curated visit offers a fine opportunity for lively discussion, information and perhaps even a private concert by one of the many accomplished students (subject to availability).
Enjoy lunch with your tour companions.
This afternoon, a visit to The Wall Museum catapults visitors back to the time of the Berlin Wall. This intriguing, poignant exhibit educates visitors on the history and causes of the Berlin Wall's construction, and finally, its destruction. The division of East and West Berlin tore apart families and the city for forty years, directly and indirectly causing the degradation of culture and humanity. Learn the powerful history of the Berlin Wall, how it affected the lives of citizens, and how it was eventually overthrown and destroyed.
Dine early with your tour companions tonight in preparation for tonight's exciting opera or operette performance in one of Berlin's illustrious historical venues (subject to availability and additional charges). Enjoy this time to immerse yourself in the wonderful and colourful historical culture of this brilliant city.
Overnight in Berlin.
Day 3: Berlin
This morning, you will visit the Sachsenhausen Memorial Site, formerly the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp. Used primarily as a prison for political prisoners during World War 2, life at the camp was rife with torture, medical experimentation and starvation. This provocative, often emotionally challenging exhibit allows the visitor to walk through the camp in its entirety, providing education and insight into the unimaginable horrors endured by prisoners.
Lunch with your tour companions.
This afternoon you will have time for a performance. Maybe you will have the great honour of performing at the Holocaust Memorial. Let your music lift up visitors in reflection while you dedicate your performance to the many innocent lives lost during the dark times of the Holocaust.
After your performance, take some free time to explore Berlin at your leisure.
Dine with your tour companions at a local restaurant tonight, enjoying traditional regional cuisine.
Overnight in Berlin.
Day 4: Weimar
This morning, you will continue your journey to Weimar, with a stop in historic Wittenberg. One of Wittenberg's most notable residents, Martin Luther, famously nailed his 95 Thesis to the door Wittenberg's Schlosskirche (Castle Church), sparking the great Protestant revolution against the Catholic Church. Wittenberg was also a city of great political power, being the residence of the Elector of Saxony for many years. Enjoy a walking tour around this charming historical town, which is brimming with historical sites related to Martin Luther's call to reformation.
Enjoy lunch break in Wittenberg with your tour companions, perhaps trying some delicious regional fare before you continue on to Weimar.
This afternoon enjoy a delightful guided walking tour of Weimar's historic sites. Learn about the fascinating history of the Bauhaus University, the centre of the great Bauhaus movement. Your walking tour will also take you to the Goethe & Schiller Memorial, which commemorates these two prominent citizens of Weimar, who were great friends and provided huge contributions to the advancement of literature, culture and art. St. Paul and Peter´s City Church, a church of utmost historical importance to Weimar, was built in the striking late Gothic style. Martin Luther preached at this stunning church, and the great Johann Sebastian Bach played piano for church services on many occasions.
This evening, enjoy the thrill of performance as you prepare to entertain at one of Weimar's illustrious and historical venues. Take the stage, enchanting your audience with music in this splendidly historical setting. Dependant on your travel dates, you might have the great opportunity to attend a masterclass at the University of Music Franz Liszt, famous for its interdisciplinary method for musical refinement. Hone your skills and art at this wonderful school, which offers a comprehensive approach to musical education and enjoyment.
Overnight in Weimar.
Day 5: Weimar to Leipzig
This morning, visit the newly built Bauhaus Museum. Discover the myriad of Bauhaus artists who are featured in this amazing new space of creativity. Celebrate the achievements of the Bauhaus movement and reflect upon the beauty of famous Bauhaus masterpieces.
Enjoy lunch with your tour companions.
After lunch, you will set out on your journey to Leipzig, a city of wonderful Renaissance architecture and the final resting place of the great Johann Sebastian Bach.
Stop by the culturally enriching Grassi Museum, which is home to three of Leipzig's finest museums. The fascinating Museum of Ethnography, one of the largest collections of ethnographic artefacts in Germany, includes items from all over the world. The Museum of Musical Instruments houses a spectacular display of historical instruments, dating back to the 16th century. Explore the world of musical history and technology as you stroll through the galleries. An on-site sound laboratory for the testing of instruments is also a point of interest. Finally, the Museum of Applied Arts features a delightful array of historical artefacts, including glasswork, textiles, ceramics and sculpture.
Dinner with your tour companions.
Overnight in Leipzig.
Day 6: En route to Dresden
This morning, you will transfer to gorgeous Dresden, a city of outstanding Baroque architecture and vibrant culture. Once dubbed "The Jewel Box of Germany" for its great beauty, this inspiring city create the ideal environment for a truly delightful walking tour. Begin at the stunning Frauenkirche (Church of our lady), which is actually a reconstruction of the original Frauenkirche, sadly lost to the bombs of World War 2. Be amazed at the colossal dome, one of the largest domes in Europe, and learn about the fascinating history of this historical building. The dramatic interior of the Frauenkirche is gorgeous and is certain to impress. Stroll onwards, to the great Theaterplatz, which is flanked by the grand and illustrious buildings of Dresden. The Semper Opera, with its opulent columns and extravagant embellishment, was built in the combination of Corinthian, Renaissance and Baroque styles. View the lavish Dresden Zwinger, where three centuries of splendid architecture and history converge. The glorious Dresden Cathedral, one of the city's most exalted landmarks.
Enjoy lunch with your tour companions in the glorious city of Dresden.
After lunch, prepare for your performance at one of the great venues of Dresden. Experience the joy of musical performance while appreciating the stunning architecture of one of Dresden's most illustrious buildings.
Dine at a popular local restaurant tonight and enjoy traditional cuisine with your tour companions.
Overnight in Dresden.
Day 7: Dresden
This morning, you will have the unique opportunity to visit the esteemed Master Violin Maker, Sebastian Schneider-Markfels. One of the foremost workshops for the creation, repair and restoration of stringed instruments, this will certainly make for an enlightening outing (subject to availability).
Enjoy lunch with your tour companions at the Bruehlsche Terrasse, a popular destination for casual lunches and people watching. Set along the banks of the serene Elbe River and surrounded by beautiful architecture, this setting creates a picturesque and relaxing environment for visitors and locals alike.
This afternoon, you have the option to enjoy free time in Dresden. Choose from a variety of activities, or simply indulge in some relaxation. The Gemaeldegalerie Alte Meister, one of the celebrated museums housed in the Dresden Zwinger, makes for an informative and enjoyable stop. Enjoy free time in the museum to explore the halls of masterpieces at your leisure. Dresden's modern art museum, the Albertinum, captivates the imagination with its thought-provoking art. The Dresden City Museum, recounts an astounding 800 years of city history and culture. Delve into the truly compelling collections as you expand your own understanding of Dresden. Be transported back in time through the mesmerizing visual artistry of the Dresden Panometer. This unique venue provides visitors a panoramic view of the glory of Dresden as it appeared in 1765, with its rich architecture and amazing city centre. The focus is abruptly changed to the aftermath of World War 2, when Dresden sustained unimaginable damage from the bombing raids. View the metamorphosis of this resilient city throughout the years.
Dinner with your tour companions.
Overnight in Dresden.
Day 8: En route to Prague
Your exploration of culture and art continues as you set off on your journey to Prague. Aptly nicknamed "The City of 100 Spires", Prague is a masterpiece of architectural splendour and historical wealth. After you arrive, revel in a captivating cruise down the rivers which cut through Prague. View the marvels of architecture and cultural history in a relaxing setting, while learning about the secrets of the city from this unique river perspective. Enjoy a myriad of on-board refreshments as you tour the city in style and comfort.
Enjoy lunch with your tour companions.
This afternoon, take part in a fascinating walking tour of Prague. Stroll through the ancient streets of this charming yet cosmopolitan city, rich in history and vibrant culture. Traverse the ancient yet elegant Charles Bridge, an architectural marvel of the 1300s with its many handsome arches. View the gorgeous arches and spires of the splendidly Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral, the final resting place of many imminent citizens. Located within the walls of the mighty Prague Castle, which is the largest ancient castle in the world, this colossal cathedral appears to soar towards the heavens. The historical and colourful Astronomical Clock, steeped in legend and history. The clock, which features an hourly performance, is over 600 years old and is deeply rooted in the culture of the city.
Enjoy an excursion to a famed local brewery for an evening of merriment and revelry. Dine with your tour companions while you indulge yourself on local cuisine and drinks.
Overnight in Prague.
Day 9: Prague
This morning, you might have the opportunity to meet a representative of the Prague Philharmonic Children's Choir, a celebrated group of very talented children and youth. Internationally renowned for their wonderful music, the choir is often invited to perform at illustrious venues world-wide. Take the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about this great organization (subject to availability).
Later this morning, you will have the opportunity to perform with your group at one of Prague's great historical venues. Enjoy this special moment to showcase your repertoire, as musicians have been doing for centuries in this magnificent location.
Enjoy lunch at your leisure with your tour companions in this gorgeous city.
This afternoon, visit the Prague Castle, a colossal structure of great historical significance, dating back to the 9th century. With its many soaring towers, ornate churches, exquisite gardens and historical grandeur, the Prague Castle makes for an enriching afternoon of enlightenment.
Dine with your tour companions at a famed local restaurant, revelling in your wonderful adventures and discoveries. Say farewell while enjoying a night of merriment and excitement in this wonderful city.
Overnight in Prague.
Day 10: Farewell
Begin your journey home or choose to continue your travels.
Performances: the mentioned locations and timeslots are just examples. They depend on group size & type, travel period and budget. No instrument rental included, locations like churches, public spots, schools or hotels, chair rental not included, audience is not guaranteed and subject to additional fees.
Copyright program and pictures: © APPINA TRAVEL GmbH
