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Air 1: Overnight Flight
Bask in the rich heritage and romance of charming France and Bavaria. On this special tour, you will enjoy being immersed in the culture of the region. Your trip includes a ride on the TGV high-speed train through the French countryside from Paris to Strasbourg. Your journey begins with an overnight flight to Paris. Day 2: Paris, France - Tour Begins Your tour begins in the magnificent capital city of Paris. Tonight, sample delicious French cuisine and breathtaking views during dinner at the Eiffel Tower. Following dinner, enjoy a romantic Seine River cruise past famous landmarks, against a backdrop of Paris’s glittering skyline. Day 3: Paris Your day begins with a panoramic tour of Paris. See the breathtaking architecture of the Arc de Triomphe; the Gothic cathedral of Notre Dame with its lovely rose windows dating to the 13th century; the historic Place de la Concorde and its commanding obelisk from the tomb of Ramses II in Egypt; Place Vendome; and the Champs-Elysées, the famed promenade that is known around the world for its people-watching. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Do as the Parisians do and sit at a sidewalk café or visit one of the city’s many renowned museums, such as the Louvre. Day 4: Paris - TGV Train - Strasbourg All aboard the high speed TGV Train as it departs this morning for picturesque Strasbourg in eastern France. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely walking tour of the city featuring the Old Quarter, known as “Petite France,” and the stunning Cathedral of Notre Dame. Day 5: Strasbourg - Alsace Wine Route Spend the day visiting two charming villages of the Alsace wine route. First is the well-preserved medieval town of Riquewihr, filled with vintners’ houses dating back to the 15th century. Your next stop is Kaysersberg, a village offering historic houses and castles, as well as a 16th century fortified bridge. Tonight, dine at one of Strasbourg’s finest restaurants, complete with typical regional cuisine. Day 6: Strasbourg - Würzburg, Germany Depart France for Germany this morning and travel to the lovely town of Würzburg. Upon arrival join a local guide on a leisurely-paced walking tour. This ancient Franconian wine town is rich in historic sights, including the magnificent 18th century residence of the prince-bishops, the Residence Palace, which boasts the largest ceiling fresco in the world. You'll also see the ornate Alte Mainbrucke, the oldest bridge on the River Main. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Perhaps you'll choose to join the locals at one of the wine taverns sprinkled throughout the city and enjoy a glass of delicious Franconian wine. Day 7: Würzburg - Weikersheim - Rothenburg - Würzburg Today you travel along the Romantic Road to the charming city of Rothenburg. En route, a stop is made in the Renaissance city of Weikersheim. Here you will tour the magnificent Weikersheim Castle, including the Knight's Hall and the formal gardens, which were modeled after the spectacular gardens at Versailles. Then continue on to Rothenburg where, upon arrival, you will take a short walking tour through the winding cobblestone streets of the old town. You'll feel as though history has come alive as you walk past buildings and walls that have watched over this city for centuries. Day 8: Würzburg - Bamberg - Würzburg Travel into the heart of Franconia for a visit to a local winery. Learn about the rich wine-making heritage of this region and sample some of the wonderful local varieties. Next, depart for the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bamberg. Bamberg is known for its beautiful old town which is veined with waterways reminiscent of Venice and capped by a gorgeous cathedral perched high above the city. Enjoy plenty of time at leisure to explore the attractions of this wonderful city. Visit the ancient Town Hall which is situated in the middle of the river and accessible only by bridge. Then stroll the charming streets that line the river, shopping for unique handicrafts or perhaps stopping to try a glass of Bamberg's renowned "smoked" beer. Day 9: Würzburg - Nuremberg - Oberammergau En route to Oberammergau, you will first stop in Nuremberg. In Nuremberg, medieval structures sit alongside streamlined, modern architecture. This interesting cityscape is due to the fact that most of the older buildings and infrastructure were completely destroyed during World War II. Take in the significant historical sights on a guided tour of the city. Your local expert will provide fascinating commentary as you tour the Rally Grounds where the Nazi Party held their political rallies and the Justice Palace, where the War Crimes Tribunal sat in 1946. You'll also take in the 900-year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle, and beautiful St. Sebald Church. Later, arrive in the Bavarian village of Oberammergau. Day 10: Oberammergau - Passion Play The morning is yours to enjoy at leisure. This afternoon, witness the performance of the Passion Play. The original performance dates back to 1634. During the Thirty Year War, the village of Oberammergau was spared the Black Plague and for this reason, the villagers vowed that every ten years they would give a play to honor the life of Christ. The performers are native Oberammergauers. To lend authenticity to the performance, the cast start to grow their hair and beards more than a year in advance. Also, the intricate costumes are made locally by the villagers. During the break of the performance, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner celebrating the end of a memorable trip. Day 11: Oberammergau - Tour Ends
MEALS ON TOUR:As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Delicious welcome and farewell dinners featuring local cuisine.
SIGHTSEEING: Expert local guides who give insightful, personalized tours as only locals can. Private Transportation via deluxe, climate controlled motor coach. BAGGAGE: Although every effort is made to handle passengers’ luggage as carefully as possible, the tour company is not responsible for and does not assume liability or accept claims for loss of or damage to luggage due to breakage, theft or wear and tear through hotel and group carrier handling. It is recommended for your own self interest and protection that you have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities. Check with your sales agent for low cost insurance to cover these risks. TOUR RATES All rates on foreign tours are subject to fluctuations of currency and may be changed when necessary without advance notice prior to deposit. All rates published are per person as indicated and are based on double occupancy when only one rate is shown. Reservations will be accepted subject to availability at the time of a request and will be considered confirmed only upon receipt of a minimum deposit. Child rates are available upon request. Please call for details. ITINERARY AND HOTEL AMENDMENTS: Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, due to unforeseen circumstances the local Tour Operator and/or Hotel(s) may have to make last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, in the sequence of the tour and/or hotels. We therefore reserve the right to adjust the sequence and/or substitute any hotels with others of similar category. In such cases there will be no cost adjustment. |
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Note: All prices are per person, double occupancy, subject to availability. These pages are not endorsed or supported by the tour operator in any way. All information presented is based on promotional material provided by the tour operator. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time by the tour operators. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. The prices on this website are not guaranteed. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in pricing. Please call us toll free at 1-800-942-3301 to confirm availability and pricing.
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