Central Europe: A Performing Arts Journey
To learn more or design a custom program for your group, please contact our Director of Performing Arts Programs, Stephanie Harrington, at Stephanie@TheGlobalCitizenProgram.com or 770-866-3131.
Please see below for an example of a day-by-day performing arts program through Central Europe.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Overnight Flight to Salzburg
Your Central European concert tour begins as you board your overnight flight to Austria. Settle in and imagine the historic cathedrals, castle courtyards, and riverside cities where your music will soon resonate.
Day 2: Arrival in Salzburg & Alpine Folklore Evening
Arrive in Salzburg and meet your Tour Director before taking a gentle first walk through the city—pastel façades, wrought-iron signs, cobblestone arcades, and the tranquil Salzach River flowing beneath the Alps. Spend the afternoon getting acquainted with your surroundings: sample Austrian pastries, browse artisan shops, or wander the historic pedestrian district. In the evening, immerse yourself in a lively Alpine Folklore Show, featuring traditional Tyrolean music, energetic Schuhplattler dancing, yodeling, and classic folk instruments like the zither and alphorn. This warm, spirited performance sets the tone for your Austrian adventure.
Day 3: Historic Salzburg & Evening Performance at Salzburg Cathedral
Begin the day exploring Salzburg’s most iconic sites, including Mozartplatz, Mirabell Gardens, the Pegasus Fountain, and the medieval lanes of the Altstadt. Visit Mozart’s Birthplace to gain insight into the musical world that shaped his genius. Then ascend via funicular to Hohensalzburg Fortress for sweeping views across church spires, riverbanks, and snow-dusted peaks. In the evening, perform in the grand Salzburg Cathedral, a Baroque masterpiece whose soaring dome, marble columns, and warm acoustics have hosted sacred music for centuries—including works premiered by Mozart himself.
Day 4: Hallstatt, Salt Mines & Lakeside Performance
Travel to Hallstatt, Austria’s most picturesque village, nestled between a crystal-clear lake and towering alpine cliffs. Explore the village’s charming lanes before descending into one of the world’s oldest salt mines. Don miners’ gear and learn about ancient Celtic excavation methods, underground lakes, and the “white gold” that brought wealth to the region. A lakeside performance may follow, offering a serene and intimate setting for your music.
Day 5: Melk Abbey & Arrival in Vienna
Journey through the scenic Wachau Valley to Melk Abbey, a baroque masterpiece perched high above the Danube River. Wander through its frescoed halls, ornate library filled with centuries-old manuscripts, and panoramic terraces overlooking vineyards and river bends. If permitted, share an informal performance in one of the abbey’s historic spaces—an unforgettable experience in a place where monastic chants once echoed. Continue on to Vienna, a city where music flows through every street and palace.
Day 6: Vienna Highlights, Apple Strudel Workshop & St. Stephen’s Cathedral Concert
Spend the morning exploring Vienna’s grand boulevards and landmarks along the Ringstrasse, including the Vienna State Opera, the Hofburg Palace, and Parliament. Tour the imperial rooms of Schönbrunn Palace, imagining the royal balls, classical premieres, and glittering soirées that once filled these halls. In the afternoon, take part in a hands-on Viennese apple strudel workshop, learning from master bakers as you prepare your own traditional Apfelstrudel. This evening, perform at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Vienna’s iconic Gothic landmark. Beneath its towering stone vaults and stained-glass windows, your music will take on an ethereal quality in one of Europe’s most storied sacred spaces.
Day 7: Eisenstadt & Esterházy Palace
Travel to Eisenstadt, the city where composer Joseph Haydn spent much of his career. Tour the elegant Esterházy Palace, including its renowned Haydnsaal—famous for its near-perfect acoustics, Rococo details, and deep historical connection to Haydn’s work. Depending on scheduling and permissions, you may have the opportunity to perform in or near the palace, bringing your music to the very place where Haydn shaped the Classical era.
Day 8: Journey to Prague
Travel to Prague, one of Europe’s most atmospheric and enchanting capitals. After checking in, enjoy an evening orientation walk through lantern-lit cobblestone streets, medieval towers, and bustling squares filled with artisans and street musicians.
Day 9: Prague Exploration & Final Concert
Explore Prague’s architectural treasures on a guided tour, including Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, the Lesser Town’s Baroque lanes, the Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square with its medieval Astronomical Clock. In the afternoon, prepare for your final concert—whether held in a historic church, palace courtyard, or cultural hall. This culminating performance celebrates your musical journey, artistry, and the friendships forged along the way. In the evening, enjoy a festive farewell dinner cruise along the Vltava River, gliding past illuminated bridges, towers, and hilltop castles reflected in the water.
Day 10: Departure
Transfer to the airport for your journey home, carrying with you memories of magnificent cathedrals, alpine traditions, cultural discoveries, and the unforgettable experience of sharing music across Central Europe.
What’s Included:
Roundtrip Airfare
Accommodations
Teacher Leaders
Full Time Local Program Director
Transportation to Included Activities
Breakfast and Dinner Daily
All Attractions and Activities
Guided Sightseeing by Local Expert Guides
All Tips and Gratuities
24-Hour Support
All Taxes and Fees
Global Citizen Certificate
Pre-Travel Preparation Meetings
