Tour Suggestion
Celebrate the birth of one of the most influential maestros that the world has ever known. This extraordinary tour, highlighting the life and works of Beethoven, is a veritable symphony of musical and cultural adventure. Gain fascinating insight into the mind of this beloved musical genius as you visit the cities and sights which were critical in shaping the young musician into the great maestro. Dazzling musical concerts, combined with splendid excursions to local wineries and villages, complete this specially-curated tour of cultural discovery and enlightenment.
Day 1: Welcome to Germany
Welcome to Germany, a country of rich history, stunning architectural wonders, and vibrant culture. Your tour guide will meet you at the airport, where you will begin your adventure with a private tour of your arrival city. Enjoy the sights and colors of Germany from the comfort of your coach as you travel to Bonn, where you may explore the area at your leisure.
This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with your tour companions. Dine on delicious regional cuisine while toasting your upcoming adventures.
Day 2: Beethoven’s Bonn
Walk in the footsteps of young Beethoven – your exploration of his life begins with a guided tour of Bonn. Marvel at the sights and sounds of this picturesque, riverside city as you traverse the cobblestone laneways as the young maestro did two hundred and fifty years ago. Learn about the various monuments and buildings dedicated the life and works of Beethoven, and pay your respects at the grave of his beloved mother, who was described by the composer as a “kind, loving mother” and his “best friend”.
A visit to the Beethoven House offers an amazing glimpse into his early life. Beethoven was born here in 1770, and his family rented the garden wing of this Baroque-style house for several years. Be moved at the sight of his various hearing aids, stand in awe at his original scores and performance programs, and be humbled at the sight of his death mask. The museum, which serves not only as a testament to Beethoven’s life, also continues to promote his legacy through various musical and cultural programming.
Lunch will be enjoyed at your leisure at one of the many wonderful cafes of Bonn. Relish in an afternoon of free time as you explore the loveliness of this quaint city.
Dine with your tour companions on the delicious regional cuisine, perhaps trying a fish dish or a soup, both preferred by Beethoven.
This evening, you will be met with the dazzle and grandeur of a specially-curated musical performance. Depending on your travel dates, you might have the opportunity to enjoy an exciting orchestral or operatic production.
Day 3: The Rhapsody of the Rhine
This morning, embark on a cruise of the enchanting Rhine. Rejoice in a peaceful cruise down the rivers which cut through the German countryside. 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.
Visit one of the quaint local wineries to sample the celebrated regional wines. Learn about the topographical history and vineyard culture of the area while indulging in the delectable wines on offer. A light lunch will be enjoyed.
A guided visit of the spectacular Drachenburg Castle will be certain to impress. This opulent palace, built in the late 19th century, offers breath-taking, panoramic views of the local countryside. Don’t forget to visit the North Tower, from which spectacular views of the Rhine can be enjoyed.
Tonight, dine with your tour companions at a popular local restaurant, enjoying the hearty regional fare. After dinner, a celebrated pianist will perform in private concert for you and your tour companions. Revel in the symphonic splendour of the specially-curated ode to Beethoven as you reflect on the day’s adventures.
Overnight in the Bonn region.
Day 4: The Wonders of Wurzburg
This morning, bid adieu to Bonn and travel to the magical town of Wurzburg. Revel in the opulent baroque and rococo architecture of this beautiful city, which was rebuilt after World War 2. Once the great seat of power for the prince-bishops of Germany, no visit to Wurzburg is complete without a tour of the lavish Wurzburg Residence and gardens. This colossal palace, with its over 300 rooms, illustrates the grand power of the ancient regional rulers. The vast, colorfully manicured gardens of this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Building also offers visitors great intrigue, as it serves as home to several ancient churches.
Lunch at your leisure with your tour companions.
This afternoon, visit the historical and celebrated Juliusspital wine estate to learn more about the rich winemaking history of the region. Be amazed at the huge significance of this splendid winery and its over four centuries of history while you sample the wonderful wines on offer. Afterwards continue your tour to Nuremberg
Enjoy dinner with your tour companions at a celebrated local restaurant in the Nuremberg region while you recall the daily adventures that you have shared.
Day 5: The Melodic Notes of Nuremberg
This morning, explore the city on a guided walking tour. Discover the secrets and intrigue of this breath-taking city while you view the gorgeous architecture of the Old Town. The magnificent St. Selbadus Church, one of the oldest and most majestic churches of Nuremberg, originally dated back to the 1200s. The Albrecht Durerhaus, with its unique combination of sandstone and timber frame, dates back to the 1400s and was the former house of the great Renaissance artist Albrecht Durer, famous for his wood-cut paintings and his iconic self-portrait. The Nuremberg Castle commands the centre of the Old Town and is difficult to miss. Admire this amazingly preserved Medieval strong-hold and learn about its colourful history.
Enjoy lunch with your tour companions in this pleasant city.
This afternoon, delight in an excursion to the underground labyrinth known as the Nuremberg Rock Cellars. Created as a response to Medieval laws, this vast maze of cellars once stored the beer of more than forty local breweries. After touring this cultural gem, you will have the opportunity to attend a local beer and whiskey tasting. Savour the fine drinks and wonderful atmosphere as you continue to learn more about this fantastic region.
Dine with your tour companions at a popular local restaurant, participating in lively discussion about your enthralling adventures and discoveries.
Overnight in Nuremberg region.
Day 6: En route to Vibrant Vienna
Your journey begins with a scenic drive along the beautiful blue Danube River, stopping in the quaint riverside city of Passau. Known as the Three Rivers City, the charming baroque architecture of the Old Town will be certain to enthrall.
Enjoy lunch with your tour companions in this picturesque, riverside town.
This afternoon, you’ll continue onward to the vibrant and opulent Vienna, Beethoven’s home for over three decades.
After hotel check-in and dinner of Viennese delights, enjoy a night on the town with your tour companions as you attend a concert at Eroica Hall in the lavish Palais Lobkowitz. Beethoven was often a guest at this glittering gem of a palace, and dedicated his Third Symphony to Joseph Franz Maximilian, 7th Prince Lobkowitz, a great patron of Beethoven.
Overnight in Vienna.
Day 7: Beethoven in Vienna - “Beethoven’s Home Away from Home”
Wake up to the wonders of Vienna, enjoying a morning sightseeing tour of this gorgeous and historical city. A guided tour will enable to you see the most iconic sights of Vienna, while learning about Beethoven's life here in this wondrous city. Visit the exceptionally insightful Beethoven Museum, marvel at Klimt’s Beethoven Frieze, and visit the extraordinary and interactive House of Music. Throughout the city, admire the aesthetically pleasing collection of Classical, Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic architectures, often combined together to create the Eclectic Style.
Lunch at your leisure with your tour companions.
The Schonbrunn Palace, one of the most venerated buildings of Vienna, dazzles visitors with its imperial wealth and lavish décor. Originally a recreational parkland, the palace was first constructed in the 17th century as a retreat. Schonbrunn, which means "beautiful spring" was continually expanded and improved to the colossal palace we see today. With over 1400 rooms, vast gardens, and richly splendid history, the Schonbrunn Palace is a fantastic destination for visitors who crave insight into culture and history. After a tour of the castle, end your magnificent evening with dinner and a musical concert at this glittering, historical gem.
Overnight in Vienna.
Day 8: The Wonders of Wachau
This morning you will visit to the stunning Melk Abbey in the breath-taking Wachau Valley, also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Melk Abbey, perched high on the edge of a mighty rock formation above the town of Melk, is a vividly coloured display of architectural beauty and elegance. The dazzling religious treasures within its walls, along with the gorgeous building itself, create a lovely morning excursion that will be certain to impress its visitors.
Enjoy lunch in one of the many charming villages, delighting in the sights and sounds of this pastoral atmosphere. After lunch, revel in a peaceful afternoon of relaxing exploration as you stroll through the villages and explore the sites of this wonderous valley.
No visit to the Wachau Valley would be complete without a stop at the beautiful local vineyards and wineries. Sample these celebrated wines, renown throughout the world for their fine quality, while you learn more about the terroir of this glorious region.
Journey back to Vienna to enjoy the evening at your leisure, dining with your friends at one of the celebrated local restaurants.
Overnight in Vienna.
Day 9: Departure from Vienna
Begin your journey home or continue your adventure.
Copyright program and pictures: © APPINA TRAVEL GmbH
