Upon arrival, the group will be met and transferred for check-in at your local hotel in Vienna with lunch on your own if not provided in flight. 

Gather as a group for a welcome briefing at the hotel this afternoon after you are checked in and settled at the hotel. 

Enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel or nearby restaurant so you can make it an early night.

*Please Note: Breakfast provided at each hotel.

Overnight: Hotel Josefshof (or similar)

Included meals: Dinner

The group will head out after breakfast today to explore Vienna. Your captivating, guided city tour will unveil the grandeur of Vienna's past and present. As you traverse the iconic Ringstrasse Avenue, you will be transported through time, passing by majestic palaces, lush parks, and cultural landmarks that define the city's architectural splendor. Admire the historic outside of the Hofburg complex, where centuries of imperial history come to life. Venture into the vibrant city center, and marvel at the magnificent St. Stephen's Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. End your morning with the regal history of Schönbrunn Castle. Uncover the stories of the Habsburg dynasty and explore their sumptuous rooms and picturesque gardens with the assistance of informative audio guides.

Lunch is on your own this afternoon with some options available as you explore. 

Experience the enchanting traditions of Austria with an authentic Krampus and St. Nicholas Celebration. Immerse yourself in a magical evening as local communities come alive with festive spirit. Witness the fascinating contrast of good and mischievous as St. Nicholas, the benevolent gift-bringer, meets Krampus, his dark and fearsome companion.

Dinner will be at a local restaurant.  

Overnight: Hotel Josefshof (or similar)

Included meals: Breakfast,  Dinner

This morning, wander through the magnificent rooms on the bel étage at Esterházy Palace and discover fascinating glimpses into the history of the palace as a building. On the palace’s ground floor, the story of Joseph Haydn as director of music and composer in the service of the Esterházy princes is vividly brought to life. Multimedia stations, project installations and unusual exhibits trace the work of this musical genius from his beginnings in Eisenstadt and Esterházy through to his late music and highlight his brilliance as a composer.

Lunch is on your own this afternoon with some options available as you explore. 

This afternoon is set aside for a private chamber concert with a local musician. Indulge in the exquisite melodies of a private concert, performed by a talented young classical musician. Immerse yourself in an intimate musical experience as their nimble fingers bring timeless compositions to life. End the evening with a delightful dinner together with the musicians and find out what it is like to work as a musician in Vienna.

Your musical guest has been invited to join you for dinner this evening.

Overnight: Hotel Josefshof (or similar)

Included meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Check out and head to Salzburg this morning. In route stop at Melk Abbey for a guided tour. During your tour learn about Melk abbey’s history, past and present. Explore the Prelate’s Courtyard, imperial staircase, and the imperial corridor into the Baroque Marble Hall, a former dining hall for imperial guests and onward to the balcony and its excellent view of the Danube Valley, the town below.

After lunch at a local restaurant visit a local farm or a winery as you continue your journey to Salzburg.

Dinner is on your own this evening after hotel check-in.

Overnight: Hotel Imlauer (or similar)

Included meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Set out after breakfast for a walking tour of Salzburg city center, birthplace of Mozart. Walk along the famous Getreidegasse, where history comes alive in the intricate wrought-iron signs and charming medieval facades. Feel the pulse of Mozart's legacy as you delve into the tales of his life in Salzburg, turning every corner into a symphony of discovery. Your guide will point out Mirabell Gardens, the Hohensalzburg Fortress on the hill and the impressive Salzburg Dome.

Lunch is on your own before you head off to enjoy a Christmas concert at a local school or spend time with local families singing Carols in German and English. 

Enjoy a special evening with an atmospheric Advent and Christmas concert at the renowned Hohensalzburg Fortress. The special atmosphere of the 900-year-old Fortress together with the excellent acoustics of the Golden Hall ensure that the concert-goer experiences far more than just a concert. From the concert hall and high above the city, you have an incomparable and unique view of the town of Salzburg and its surroundings. Watching a Fortress Concert makes for an unforgettable experience and a highlight of your stay in Salzburg.

Dinner will be provided this evening. 

Overnight: Hotel Imlauer (or similar) 

Included meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Head to Hallstatt this morning, nestled between the Dachstein mountains and Lake Hallstatt. This picturesque village charms visitors with its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and stunning views. Whether strolling through the historic center or enjoying local Austrian cuisine, Hallstatt is a fairytale destination you will not forget.

Lunch will be provided this afternoon.

This afternoon, enjoy a puppet show at the Salzburg Marionette Theatre. Throughout its history of over a century, the Salzburg Marionette Theatre has held countless audiences spellbound – children and adults alike – with its skillful, artistic performances and its impressive repertoire. When the lights slowly dim in the splendid auditorium and the red velvet curtain opens soundlessly – then the little actors have their big moment, immersing us in a world filled with magic and fantasy. {Exploring a meeting with puppeteer or maker}. 

You will have time to explore Salzburg’s Christmas markets this evening with dinner on your own. Christmas markets, or Christkindlmarkts, are a magical highlight of the holiday season, offering a festive atmosphere steeped in tradition. 

Overnight: Hotel Imlauer (or similar) 

Included meals: Breakfast & Lunch

After breakfast, say goodbye to Salzburg and make the drive back to Vienna to settle back into the local hotel.

Lunch is on your own this afternoon with some free time to further explore Vienna and the Christmas markets. 

Late this afternoon head out with local friends of Nanda Journeys to have dinner at a “Heurigen” (wine tavern), a Viennese locals favorite. Learn how to make a typical Christmas Punsch and to prepare the most popular cookies at Christmastime in Austria - Vanilla Kipferl with an experienced chef. Say goodbye as you reflect and share memories over a traditional farewell dinner. 

Overnight: Hotel Josefshof (or similar)

Included meals: Breakfast & Dinner 

Drive to the airport for check in for your flight home. Depending on the flight time, lunch is by individual arrangement.

Included meals: Breakfast

Please note: All itineraries are subject to change based on availability of hotels, flights and hosting organizations at the time of finalization of booking. Comparable meetings and activities will be arranged should an itinerary change be necessary. 30 days before departure, a finalized itinerary will be available and reflect final details.

Orin James has a wide background in both the natural sciences and humanities.  In addition to teaching courses in biology, he also has courses exploring Austrian history, Austrian literature and Austrian Puppetry at the University of Pittsburgh.  He is currently the Chair of the University Of Pittsburgh’s Austrian Nationality Room, which shares Austrian cultural highlights with the community and provides support for students interested in studying in Austria.  He brings his interests in Austria to OLLI in a variety of courses, including Introduction to Austrian Civilization and Literature along with Introduction to Czech Literature. 

Faculty Bio HERE

Review and download Booking Terms & Conditions HERE