En route from the U.S., guests arrive in Munich, Germany by Monday, September 19.

Welcome to Germany! Transfer to the quaint, scenic town of Oberammergau. This location is best known for three things: a centuries-long tradition of woodcarving, its elaborately painted buildings, and of course, a world-famous Passion Play.

Overnight: Oberammergau Hotel (D)

The highlight of today — and for some, the entire adventure — is attending a moving performance of the Passion Play. Here in Oberammergau, a community where time sometimes feels frozen and where modern life meets the traditional, experience the incredible power and pageantry of this celebrated event.

The 2020 performance — the 42nd production — was delayed to 2022 due to the pandemic. The play represents not only a theatrical masterpiece but a unique cultural experience. Meticulous preparations are made by a dedicated ensemble, with a support team and orchestra. In total, more than 2,000 citizens are involved in keeping this 2,000-year-old story and the promise alive.

The performance lasts five hours and takes place in two parts, with a three-hour intermission for dinner and refreshment. Witness with awe the sunset and the moon rise behind an open-air stage large enough for hundreds of participants and live animals. Kings, presidents, and wealthy industrialists, such as JD Rockefeller and Henry Ford have joined countless others from all over the world to delight in the unforgettable Oberammergau Passion Play.

Overnight: Oberammergau Hotel (B,D)

Following breakfast, transfer to Passau for lunch and sightseeing. During the journey, relax and revel in the scenery of stunning forests and breathtaking vistas of the magnificent Alps. Watch for castles atop emerald cliffs, picturesque valleys, and rolling hills dotted with centuries-old farms.

Located at the confluence of three rivers (the Inn, Ilz, and Danube), Passau is a city of natural beauty and religious pilgrimage. Learn first-hand how its scenic landscapes and northern Italian-style buildings make it a top destination.

This afternoon, embark on the enchanting Amadeus Silver III, your “floating luxury hotel” for the next three nights. This vessel combines design, elegance, and engineering with walk-in wardrobes, spacious public areas, and first-class service. Indulge in the tranquility of river cruising by lounging on the Sun Deck or in the Amadeus Club.

Overnight: Amadeus Silver III (B,L,D)

Partake in a guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace, the sumptuous summer residence and gardens of Empress Maria Theresa and the Habsburg Empire. It’s one of Austria’s most important cultural assets and is on the list of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites. See the magnificent white and gold Rococo decor and crystal mirrors of the Mirrors Room where a six-year-old Mozart gave his first concert for the Empress. Then admire the Great Gallery, a ceremonial hall that provided the ideal setting for balls and other court functions.

Continue exploring this afternoon with a city tour of Vienna. This city is home to a number of outstanding landmarks, from the Hofburg Palace and Town Hall to the Austrian Parliament Building. Learn about the architecture and history of Vienna and its beloved sights. One wonder standing high above the rest is St. Stephen’s Cathedral, with its stunning mosaic roof. Inside this lavishly decorated structure stand ornate Gothic columns telling tales of the Christian saints.

Tonight, we will cap off the Vienna immersion with an optional excursion if you wish. Listen to an orchestra play popular pieces from Vienna’s classical era the “Sound of Vienna” concert. Additional fee for a concert ticket.

Overnight: Amadeus Silver III (B,L,D)

Today, arrive in Durnstein and disembark for touring of the Wachau Valley.

Behold the vivid yellow of the Melk Abbey - one of the largest and loveliest European Baroque ensembles. From its grand position overlooking the Danube, this complex rewards guests with its beauty and views from the panoramic terrace and balcony. Monks live here in accordance with the rules of Saint Benedict, making this a place of spirituality as well as a tourist attraction.

Discover the treasures inside the Abbey, including Marble Hall, arguably the most opulent dining room even designed. World-class artists and sculptors created a masterpiece of gilded frescos and a painted ceiling that rivals the Sistine Chapel. In the grandiose Abbey Church, see the domed ceiling soaring high and the extravagantly decorated walls that frame St. John the Baptist’s Altar, which depicts the baptism of Jesus by John.

Overnight: Amadeus Silver III (B,L,D)

After breakfast, guests departing during the suggested times take the complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home. Guests who will continue on the post-tour transfer to Prague. (B)

Cabin space is limited. Program Rates start at $3999/pp for a C-4 Cabin. Call our office for availability, to make a deposit and secure your reservation. The main program deposit is $850/pp to reserve your space.

Activities are generally not very strenuous, but a fair amount of walking can be expected. Wear comfortable walking shoes with good soles. We expect that guests on this program can follow a guide through cobblestone streets at an average pace for two hours, and walk up and down stairs without assistance. Hitoric city centers are usually more accessible by foot than vehicle, and sometimes it is not possible for your motor coach to drop you off at hotel and site entrances. Due to the structure of some buildings, handrails may not be present, and facilities for the disabled may be limited.

2 nights accommodations in Oberammergau prior to embarkation

3 nights aboard the stylish and modern Amadeus Silver III accompanied by an Orbridge Travel Director

A welcome reception after embarkation

5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 5 dinners

Land transportation aboard modern motor coaches

All port charges, excursion transportation, and entrance fees to included sites

Gratuities to ship crew, Orbridge Travel Director, cruise director, local guides, drivers, porters, and wait staff for included meals

Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

Effective January 1, 2021, and applying to new reservations received by Orbridge on or after January 1, 2021, guests of all but two destinations (Antarctica Discovery and Trans-Siberian Railway) now have the flexibility to cancel reservations for a full refund of all monies paid for the main program and any pre-tour or post-tour, provided the cancellation notice is received by Orbridge more than 90 calendar days before the tour’s scheduled departure date. (Complete terms and conditions can be viewed at terms.orbridge.com.)