Romantic Roads

Christmas reigns year-round in Rothenburg, a gem of a town on Germany’s picturesque Romantic Road. In addition to its perpetual Christmas markets, the town features one of the most intact medieval city walls in Europe and a unique clock. During the Thirty Years’ War, a former Rothenburg mayor was given the chance to save the city by drinking nearly a gallon of wine. He succeeded (and then slept for three days straight), and his feat is reenacted seven times daily by mechanical figures on the clock in the Marktplatz—putting a fresh spin on the concept of a “cuckoo clock.” The grand Gothic St. Jacob’s Church looks on from across the square.

There is no surprise here. The Romantic Road is exactly what it says it is — a drive down the middle of Western Bavaria’s heartland and a path through the center of your own heart with its romantic picturesque scenery. Between Würzburg and Füssen, the route is strewn with quaint villages, colorful castles, farmhouses, elaborate churches and dense forest.

Join a licensed guide for a whirlwind look at Munich, from its medieval heart to modern landmarks. Stroll through Marienplatz to see the Neues Rathaus and its famous Glockenspiel, framed by the twin towers of the Frauenkirche. Visit the Residenz, then explore Olympiapark, built for the 1972 Games, and step into BMW Welt to experience innovation and sleek design.

Bavarian Dancing Lesson

With its elegant squares and quaint streets, Salzburg is a delightful introduction to the sophisticated world of the classical genius, Mozart.

Explore Salzburg’s Old Town, a maze of winding lanes, cobblestone streets, and historic squares. Take in the grandeur of Residenz Square and admire the baroque façade of Salzburg Cathedral. Continue to Mozart Square, where the composer’s statue stands watch, and listen for the 18th century Glockenspiel chiming overhead.

Feel the rhythm of Salzburg’s Old Town Square as you enter the unassuming yellow home at Getreidegasse 9, the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Inside, view an impressive collection of the young composer’s first instruments and immerse yourself in the captivating story of his early life.

Discover Venice, a city built on more than 100 islands in a lagoon off the Adriatic. Begin in St. Mark’s Square and tour St. Mark’s Basilica, completed in 1094 and home to the relics of Venice’s patron saint. Continue with a guided visit of the Gothic Doge’s Palace with its ornate arches before continuing to a glass-blowing demonstration, showcasing the centuries-old tradition of Venice’s most famous craft.

Create a Venetian mask inspired by the Italian Carnival, the Commedia dell'Arte - or by your imagination! Learn the meaning of the mask and its historical significance, then decorate yours using professional techniques.

Explore the 13th-century home and legendary balcony linked to Shakespeare’s "Romeo and Juliet." View period costumes and artwork in its museum, Juliet’s statue, and romantic notes from global visitors.

Greet six renaissance giants including Giotto, Galileo, and Isabella d’Este, and debate who made the greatest impact on civilization.

Accademia visit, Baptistery Doors, Chiesa di Santa Croce, Duomo, Ponte Vecchio

Cooking class with dinner

Board your flight home or choose to extend your trip with a two-day visit to Rome, Italy’s timeless capital. Travel by train and begin your journey with a city walk through some of its most iconic landmarks, including the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and lively Piazza Navona. The following day, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour with Whisper headsets as you explore the city’s ancient and artistic treasures. Visit the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, admire St. Peter’s Basilica, and step back in time at the Colosseum, Piazza Venezia, and the Roman Forum.