“The Hills Are Alive With Sound of Music”
September 16-25, 2025
10 days / 9 nights

Overall Trip Highlights

• Vienna: Austria’s imperial capital is steeped in artistic and intellectual legacy, home to icons like Mozart, Beethoven, and Sigmund Freud. Explore grand boulevards, imperial palaces, and the UNESCO-listed historic center.
  Fun Fact: Vienna boasts over 1,700 bridges—more than Venice!

• Salzburg: Renowned for its baroque beauty and alpine charm, Salzburg is the birthplace of Mozart and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city’s Old Town offers cobblestone streets, baroque domes, and musical heritage at every turn.
  Fun Fact: “Salzburg” means “Salt Castle,” a nod to the city’s medieval wealth from salt mining.

• Dürnstein: This fairytale village in the Wachau Valley is known for its terraced vineyards and castle ruins. It’s most famous as the place where King Richard the Lionheart was held captive in 1192.
  Fun Fact: The legend of Richard’s imprisonment here inspired stories and songs across Europe.

• Schönbrunn Palace: A former summer residence of the Habsburgs, this Rococo masterpiece reveals Austria’s imperial past with grand state rooms, manicured gardens, and the world’s oldest zoo.
  Fun Fact: A young Mozart performed for Empress Maria Theresa in the palace’s gilded Mirror Room.

• Waltz Lessons: Step into Austrian tradition by learning the Viennese Waltz—the elegant dance that once lit up ballrooms of imperial Vienna and spread throughout 19th-century Europe.

• Wine Tastings in the Wachau Valley: Discover Austria’s most celebrated wine region, known for its world-class Grüner Veltliner and Riesling, cultivated in vineyards dating back over 1,000 years.
  Fun Fact: Many of the dry-stone vineyard terraces are still maintained by hand, just as they were centuries ago.

• Mozart’s Birthplace: Visit the charming yellow townhouse in Salzburg’s Getreidegasse where Mozart was born in 1756. Now a museum, it displays original instruments and family memorabilia inside a building dating to the 12th century.

• Danube River Cruise: Glide along Europe’s second-longest river, soaking in panoramic views of abbeys, vineyards, and medieval towns that line this historic waterway.
  Fun Fact: The Danube flows through 10 countries—more than any other river in the world.

• Hohensalzburg Fortress: Dominating the Salzburg skyline, this 11th-century stronghold is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. Its towers offer sweeping views of the city and the Alps.

“Climb every mountain, ford every stream, follow every rainbow, ’til you find your dream.”

Every Beatrice Bradley trip is crafted to maximize the experiences had during the trip.
The itineraries are specially made to allow time for engaging in conversation and having belly laughs with a new friend. We hope that the activities and experiences may allow you to come out of your comfort zone and to try new or unique things.
These trips are made to replicate a ‘friends get-away trip’. 

Day One: A Grand Entrance into Vienna’s Elegance 

Welcome to Vienna, the European capital of music and romance! As your plane touches down, the cobblestone streets, regal architecture, and gentle notes of Strauss seem to beckon you into a storybook adventure. Your warm-hearted BB hosts will be there to greet you with open arms and genuine smiles, ushering you into a journey brimming with elegance and joy. Once nestled into your beautiful hotel—located in the enchanting heart of Vienna—you’ll have a moment to breathe in the grandeur of your surroundings. Later, we’ll gather for a sparkling welcome meet and greet, where laughter flows as easily as the wine, and strangers quickly become friends. As twilight wraps Vienna in golden light, we’ll savor a decadent dinner and delight in our first evening together. Tonight sets the tone for the magic to come. Vienna—like Audrey Hepburn in her most dazzling role—will sweep you off your feet with its poise, charm, and timeless allure.

Highlights

• Arrive in Vienna: The European capital of music! Your BB hosts will be waiting for you at the airport with warm smiles and open arms.
• Check-In: Settle into your chic, centrally located hotel in the heart of this stunning and historic city.
• Welcome Meet and Greet: Gather with fellow travelers for an evening of joy, connection, and celebration—featuring an elegant dinner and welcome toast.
• Elegant Vienna: Vienna is the Audrey Hepburn of capital cities—graceful, luminous, romantic, and utterly unforgettable.

Fun Fact: Vienna is home to over 1,700 bridges—more than Venice! You’re not just walking through history here; you’re gliding through a city built on elegance, art, and architectural charm.

Day Two: Imperial Grandeur and Market Life

Day two begins as Vienna softly stirs to life, the air scented with fresh pastries and the soft clink of café spoons. Begin your day on an optional early-riser coffee walk, witnessing the city’s serene morning rhythms.

As sunlight spills over stately rooftops, embark on a private guided tour through Vienna’s historic heart. Admire the grand Vienna State Opera, stroll along Kärntnerstrasse to St. Stephen’s Cathedral’s soaring spires, and wander the Graben and Kohlmarkt—streets once part of ancient Roman roads. Pause to take in the imperial splendor of the Hofburg Palace before circling the Ring Avenue, where Vienna’s 19th-century grandeur shines through landmarks like the Parliament, City Hall, and Burgtheater.

The afternoon will conclude with a stroll through the vibrant Naschmarkt, Vienna’s most beloved open-air market, which has been a cornerstone of city life since the 16th century. As you wander through its bustling aisles, you’ll pass historic coffee houses, artisan bakeries, chocolatiers, and butchers whose shops have stood for generations. The scents of spices, fresh bread, and aged cheeses mingle in the air, and the energy of daily Viennese life surrounds you. Here, history isn’t behind glass—it’s alive in every flavor, every conversation, and every handcrafted delicacy.

Highlights

• Early-Riser’s Coffee Street Walk: Watch Vienna come to life in the quiet hours of the morning as locals open cafés and the city’s rhythm begins.
• Private Guided Tour: Explore Vienna’s rich downtown core, where baroque beauty meets centuries of imperial legacy.
• Kärntnerstrasse Walk: Stroll along one of Vienna’s most famous boulevards, lined with cafés and fine boutiques.
• Imperial Palace Hofburg: Visit the heart of the Habsburg Empire, where emperors once ruled and Sisi once lived.
• Ring Avenue: Discover 19th-century Vienna’s vision of grandeur, featuring the city’s most iconic cultural institutions.
• Naschmarkt Visit: Wander Vienna’s historic market, where centuries-old coffee houses and artisan shops offer a glimpse into everyday Austrian life.

Fun Fact: The Naschmarkt, Vienna’s vibrant marketplace, originally began in the 16th century as a place to sell milk bottles, which were made from ash wood—hence its early name “Aschmarkt.” Today, it’s a treasure trove of international flavors and a beloved local gathering spot.

Day Three: Palaces, Prancing Hooves, and Opera

Today we make our way through Vienna’s leafy suburbs to visit the elegant Belvedere Palace, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Once the residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy—one of the most successful military commanders in Austrian history—the Belvedere is now home to one of the world’s most impressive collections of Austrian art, including Gustav Klimt’s famous painting The Kiss. With its sweeping staircases, mirrored halls, and manicured gardens, the palace reflects a time when art, architecture, and aristocracy flourished in perfect harmony.

In the afternoon, we’ll delve into another treasured Viennese tradition with a guided tour of the Spanish Riding School. Within its historic Baroque halls, discover the centuries-old art of classical dressage and learn how the graceful Lipizzaner stallions are trained for their breathtaking performances. It’s a behind-the-scenes glimpse into a world where discipline, artistry, and history intertwine.

As the sun sets, we’ll step into the velvet-draped world of the Vienna State Opera for an evening performance, experiencing the passion and precision that have made this house world-famous. The evening concludes with a lovely group dinner near the hotel, where conversation and shared wonder weave the final notes of a truly unforgettable day.

Highlights

• Belvedere Palace: Visit the Baroque home of Prince Eugene of Savoy, now a museum housing masterworks from Klimt to Schiele. Its Upper and Lower Palaces are connected by sculpted gardens that reflect Enlightenment ideals of order and beauty.
• Vienna’s Historic Center: Discover layers of history as you walk through the city’s oldest quarters—from the Roman-era foundations to Gothic, Baroque, and imperial façades. Learn how Vienna grew from a medieval trading post into a cultural capital of Europe.
• Spanish Riding School: Go behind the scenes of Vienna’s legendary equestrian institution and discover the artistry and tradition behind the world-famous Lipizzaner stallions.
• Vienna State Opera: Attend a spectacular performance in one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world.

Fun Fact: When it first opened in 1869, the Vienna State Opera was considered too modern—and its design so controversial that the architect tragically took his own life. Today, it stands as one of the most beloved opera houses in Europe.

Day Four: Waltzing Through Vienna’s Golden Heart

Today, we step deeper into the pages of Austrian history, tracing the footsteps of emperors, empresses, and musical geniuses. Our day begins with a visit to the legendary Schönbrunn Palace, the breathtaking summer residence of the Habsburg monarchy. With its 1,441 rooms and magnificent gardens, the palace offers a glimpse into the opulent world of Empress Maria Theresa, Emperor Franz Joseph, and the iconic Empress Elisabeth, known as Sisi. Strolling through its marble halls and gilded salons, you’ll witness the grandeur of a dynasty that ruled Central Europe for centuries.

As the afternoon sun filters through tall windows, we step into the graceful world of the Viennese waltz. In a beautiful salon reminiscent of Vienna’s golden age, you’ll take part in a beginner-friendly dance class led by professional instructors. The waltz, born in the 18th century and once considered daring for its close hold, became the heartbeat of Austrian high society. Today, you’ll learn its flowing rhythm and elegant steps, just as aristocrats once did under chandeliers and sweeping frescoed ceilings. Whether you twirl with confidence or giggle through missteps, the experience promises delight, laughter, and a deeper connection to Vienna’s storied ballroom culture.

After dinner, the evening continues with a visit to the Votive Church for the Vienna: Light of Creation immersive light show. Inside this neo-Gothic masterpiece, brilliant projections and music transform the soaring arches and stained-glass windows into a mesmerizing spectacle. As light dances across intricate stonework and vivid colors fill the sacred space, you’ll witness Vienna’s history and artistry reimagined in a breathtaking, modern way—a truly unforgettable finale to your day.

Highlights

• Schönbrunn Palace: Explore the grand summer residence of the Habsburgs, where Empress Maria Theresa and Sisi once held court. The palace’s Rococo interiors and sprawling gardens offer insight into the private and political lives of Austria’s ruling family.
• Afternoon Waltz Lesson: Step onto the dance floor in a classic Viennese ballroom and learn the art of the waltz with expert guidance.
• Vienna’s Ballroom Tradition: Discover the social and cultural significance of waltzing in Austrian history, once a hallmark of imperial elegance and celebration.
• Traditional Austrian Fare: Explore the flavors and craftsmanship behind Austria’s celebrated culinary traditions, from cured meats to sweet confections.
• Vienna Light of Creation Immersive Light Show: Witness the Votive Church transformed by dazzling projections and music, as vibrant light and color bring Vienna’s history and art to life in an unforgettable spectacle.

Fun Fact: In 1814, the Viennese waltz caused such a sensation at the Congress of Vienna that diplomats joked, “The Congress does not walk—it dances!”

Day Five: Through the Wachau- Legends, Landscapes, and Living History

Today, we bid farewell to Vienna and set off into the storybook landscapes of the Wachau Valley, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage region where the Danube winds through vine-covered hills and time seems to stand still. Known for its terraced vineyards, baroque landmarks, and medieval villages, the valley is a living tapestry of Austria’s cultural and natural heritage.

Our journey takes us first to Dürnstein, a fairytale town nestled among the cliffs and vineyards. Cobblestone streets and pastel facades lead you through centuries of history, including the legend of King Richard the Lionheart, who was famously held captive here in 1192. The ruins of the castle where he was imprisoned still crown the hilltop, a silent witness to tales of crusades, betrayal, and royal ransom.

From Dürnstein, we’ll board a Danube River boat and glide through the valley’s serene beauty toward Melk, home to one of Austria’s greatest treasures: the Benedictine Abbey of Melk. Perched high above the river, the abbey is a triumph of baroque design, with golden halls, frescoed ceilings, and a library that seems pulled from a fairytale. It has served as a center of learning and faith since the 11th century, and continues to radiate the grandeur of imperial Austria.

Later, we’ll be welcomed by local winemakers for an intimate vineyard visit, where you’ll learn how generations have cultivated wine in these ancient terraces. The Wachau’s Grüner Veltliner and Riesling wines are as rich in character as the land they come from—steeped in story and savored with pride.

We’ll arrive at our next hotel in the heart of the valley, where the evening invites you to relax, reflect, and soak in the beauty that has unfolded throughout the day.

Highlights

• Wachau Valley Tour: Journey through Austria’s most scenic wine region, where terraced vineyards and charming towns trace the Danube’s graceful curves.

• Dürnstein Exploration: Visit the romantic medieval village where King Richard the Lionheart was once imprisoned—a place of myth and history woven together.

• Danube River Boat Ride: Cruise along one of Europe’s most iconic rivers, surrounded by castles, vineyards, and postcard-perfect views.

• Melk Abbey Tour: Step into the grandeur of Melk Abbey, a baroque masterpiece perched high above the Danube and home to monks since the Middle Ages.

• Terraced Vineyards and Wine Tasting: Meet local winemakers and discover how centuries of tradition and terroir shape the wines of the Wachau.

• Arrival and Exploration: Check into your hotel in the valley and enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by nature, history, and the quiet charm of rural Austria.

Fun Fact: The Wachau Valley’s unique vineyard terraces date back to Roman times, and many of the dry-stone walls supporting them are over 1,000 years old—still built and maintained by hand today.

Day Six: From the Wachau to Salzburg – A Passage Through Time

This morning begins with a serene early riser coffee walk through the enchanting town of Krems, where the Wachau Valley’s beauty is at its most peaceful. As the soft morning light filters through vineyard-covered hills and ancient rooftops, you’ll feel deeply immersed in the quiet rhythms of Austrian life—surrounded by cobbled lanes, baroque chapels, and the scent of fresh earth and history.

We then set out on a scenic journey toward Salzburg, the jewel of northern Austria. Along the way, the landscape transforms—rolling hills and sleepy vineyards give way to alpine meadows, quaint villages, and rising peaks. This is Austria at its most cinematic, where every bend in the road feels like a brushstroke from a romantic painting.

Upon arrival in Salzburg, we’ll check in to our new hotel, nestled in a city famed for its musical legacy and fairy-tale charm. The afternoon offers time to rest, reflect, or take in your first impressions of this magical town, where spires and fortress walls echo with the sounds of Mozart and the memories of emperors.

As evening arrives, we gather at one of Europe’s most storied destinations: St. Peter Stiftskulinarium. Tucked within the walls of St. Peter’s Abbey and dating back to the year 803, it is considered the oldest continuously operating restaurant in Europe. Over the centuries, it has hosted kings, composers, poets, and popes—each adding to its legacy of elegance, tradition, and quiet grandeur.

Highlights

• Early Riser Coffee Walk in Krems: Begin your day in one of the Wachau’s most picturesque towns, surrounded by vineyards and medieval charm.

• Scenic Journey to Salzburg: Travel through Austria’s varied and dramatic countryside, from the terraced valleys of the Danube to the alpine foothills of Salzburg.

• Arrival in Salzburg: Settle into your new surroundings in the baroque heart of Austria—a city of music, artistry, and timeless allure.

• St. Peter Stiftskulinarium Visit: Step inside Europe’s oldest restaurant, where monks, emperors, and musicians have dined for over 1,200 years in an atmosphere of hushed elegance and historic reverence.

Fun Fact: St. Peter Stiftskulinarium has been serving guests since Charlemagne’s time—and it’s rumored that both Mozart and Christopher Columbus dined within its stone walls!

Day Seven: Salzburg in Symphony 

Today unfolds in one of Europe’s most captivating cities—Salzburg, a place where music, history, and architectural beauty converge beneath the gaze of the Eastern Alps. With its baroque skyline, cobblestone streets, and melodic spirit, Salzburg offers a deeply immersive experience that feels both grand and intimate.

In the morning, you’ll join a private guided walking tour led by a local historian who brings Salzburg’s rich past to life. The journey begins in the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre, where pastel-colored façades and wrought-iron signs reveal centuries of cultural refinement. Towering above it all stands the Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of Europe’s largest medieval castles and a silent guardian of the city since the 11th century.

You’ll wind your way through the Getreidegasse, Salzburg’s most famous shopping street and the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Every doorway here tells a story—of merchants, musicians, and the artistic soul of a city that has inspired composers and emperors alike. Strolling through its alleyways, you’ll pass baroque churches, courtyards, and hidden treasures that make Salzburg a city best discovered on foot.

As dusk falls, an unforgettable evening awaits at the opulent Mirabell Palace, built in 1606 as a gesture of love by Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich. Its Marble Hall, renowned for its acoustics and frescoed ceilings, has hosted countless performances throughout the centuries. Tonight, you’ll be treated to a classical concert featuring works by Salzburg’s most treasured son—Mozart himself—surrounded by candlelight and timeless beauty.

Highlights

• Private Guided Tour of Salzburg: Explore the city on foot with a local expert who shares Salzburg’s rich tapestry of history, music, and imperial legacy.

• UNESCO Historic Centre: Walk through one of Europe’s most beautifully preserved old towns, where medieval fortresses and baroque elegance coexist.

• Getreidegasse and Mozart’s Birthplace: Visit the home where Mozart was born in 1756 and stroll along the charming, historic street that shaped his early years.

• Mirabell Palace Classical Concert: Experience an evening of masterful music in one of the most exquisite concert halls in the world—a setting once reserved for nobility.

Fun Fact: The Mirabell Palace Marble Hall is so acoustically perfect and visually stunning that it’s often chosen as a venue for royal weddings and international concerts—once described as “possibly the most beautiful wedding hall in the world.”

Day Eight: Where Scenery Sings – Lakes, Legends, and The Sound of Music 

Today, the hills truly come alive. You’ll be joined by your private guide-driver for a breathtaking journey through the Salzkammergut, Austria’s legendary lake district. With its glacial waters, dramatic alpine backdrops, and timeless villages, this region has inspired composers, artists, and filmmakers for generations.

Our route leads us to some of the most iconic filming locations from The Sound of Music, beginning with the elegant Leopoldskron Palace. With its serene lakefront view and ornate rococo architecture, it served as the cinematic backdrop for the von Trapp family home and remains a highlight for fans of the film and lovers of beauty alike.

Next, we make our way to the quaint town of Mondsee, where the storybook Mondsee Basilica—a former Benedictine abbey dating back to the 8th century—hosted the famous wedding scene in the film. But beyond its silver-screen fame, the church itself is a marvel of baroque craftsmanship, with soaring ceilings and golden altars that echo with history.

As the journey unfolds, you’ll wind through shimmering lakeside roads and mountain vistas that have remained untouched by time. The Salzkammergut Region, once a favorite summer escape of Habsburg royalty, is a natural masterpiece—where emerald waters mirror towering peaks, and each village seems lifted from a painting.

As the sun dips low, you’ll return to Salzburg with time to enjoy a leisurely evening stroll, taking in the quiet glow of the city’s baroque spires and softly lit squares. It’s the perfect finale to a day steeped in nature, nostalgia, and cinematic charm.

Highlights

• Private Guided Tour: Embark on a curated exploration of Austria’s lake district with personal insight and local lore from your guide.

• “Sound of Music” Filming Sites: Visit the iconic Leopoldskron Palace and Mondsee Basilica, immortalized in one of cinema’s most beloved films.

• Salzkammergut Region: Discover the alpine lakes and charming towns that have captivated emperors, composers, and artists for centuries.

• Evening in Salzburg: Conclude the day with a relaxed stroll through Salzburg’s illuminated streets, where history and romance shimmer in every corner.

Fun Fact: The Salzkammergut was so beloved by Emperor Franz Joseph I that he spent every summer there for over six decades—declaring it his “kingdom of peace.”

Day Nine: The Journey Comes Full Circle- Return to Vienna 

As we bid a fond farewell to the storybook charm of Salzburg, the journey continues with a scenic train ride back to the imperial heart of Austria—Vienna. This elegant passage through the countryside offers one last embrace of the landscapes that have defined our days: rolling meadows, alpine silhouettes, and villages tucked like secrets into the hillsides.

The Austrian railway system, known for its comfort and beauty, has long been celebrated as one of Europe’s finest. As the train gently winds its way eastward, there’s time to reflect on the grandeur we’ve experienced, the legends we’ve uncovered, and the friendships we’ve built.

Upon arriving in Vienna, we return to the city where our adventure began. A short transfer brings us to our airport hotel, chosen for its convenience and comfort. Here, the pace softens. You’ll have the afternoon to unwind, take a leisurely walk nearby, or simply pause to savor your memories.

As twilight descends, we gather one final time. Laughter and warm conversation fill the air as we look back on castles explored, music heard, and the quiet moments in between. Though the journey concludes tomorrow, the spirit of Austria—its music, majesty, and romance—will linger long after we part.

Highlights

• Scenic Train Ride to Vienna: Travel through Austria’s ever-changing countryside, from alpine valleys to the wide-open plains of the east, just as nobility once journeyed between court cities.

• Farewell to Salzburg: Depart the city of Mozart and baroque beauty, carrying with you the stories and splendor of a place where music lives in every stone.

• Return to Vienna: Settle into a comfortable airport hotel with time to rest, reflect, or stroll before departure.

• Final Gathering: Share memories, laughter, and heartfelt goodbyes as you celebrate the journey, the people, and the magic you’ve discovered together.

Fun Fact: Austria’s railway lines were once commissioned by Emperor Franz Joseph to connect his vast empire—today, they offer one of the most scenic and refined ways to travel across the country.

Day Ten: Until We Meet Again! Departure Day

As our unforgettable journey comes to an end, we gather for a final group breakfast, cherishing the new friendships and memories we’ve made. With a bit of time for last-minute exploring, we reflect on the amazing experiences shared together. From the enchanting sights of Vienna to the serene beauty of the Danube and the historic charm of Salzburg and Bratislava, each moment has strengthened our bonds. Though we part ways today, the friendships and memories forged on this trip will last a lifetime.

Highlights

• Final Group Breakfast: Cherish the last meal together.
• Last-Minute Exploring: Enjoy some final moments in the city.
• Airport Departure: Say goodbye and depart for home.

Note: This itinerary serves as a general guide to what we will be doing, seeing, and eating, with the final version provided approximately two weeks prior. The published itinerary is an example and may be adjusted to include accommodations, tours, or restaurants of comparable quality to ensure the best experience.