Budapest: September 27–October 3, 2026

Radiology International in Budapest

Saturday, September 26

9:00am – 5:00pm
Arrivals for Participants in Sunday’s “Back to the Middle Ages – Excursion to Szentendre and Visegrád”
*Please note that check-in at Al Habtoor Palace Budapest is 3:00 PM.

12:00pm – 5:00pm
Radiology International in Budapest CME Conference Hospitality Desk – Main Lobby
Please stop by the Hospitality Desk to collect your welcome packet and obtain local area information.

6:00pm
Evening at Leisure
Enjoy dinner at your leisure at one of the hotel’s restaurants or in the city of Budapest, which has an array of restaurants and shopping opportunities nearby.

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Sunday, September 27

6:30am – 11:00am
Breakfast – Ottimo Restaurant
For guests of the El Habtoor Palace Budapest, a complete buffet breakfast, where you can sample international flavors and Hungarian specialties, is included as a part of your specially negotiated Radiology International hotel reservation rate.

9:00am – 4:00pm
Back to the Middle Ages – A Day Tour of Szentendre and Visegrád
We will embark on an excursion to one of the most scenic and charming regions of Hungary – the Danube Bend – where the river forces its way through the steep hills in a narrow curve to reach Budapest. After a scenic 45-minute drive from Budapest, we arrive in Szentendre, where we will explore the fusion of cultures in this “town of painters”. Afterwards, a short 25-minute drive will bring us to Visegrád, a former Royal Seat with ruins that date back to the 13th century. A themed, medieval lunch at Restaurant Renaissance will be provided, complete with a knights tournament.

9:00am – 5:00pm
Radiology International in Budapest CME Conference Hospitality Desk – Main Lobby
Please stop by the Hospitality Desk to collect your welcome packet and obtain local area information.

3:00pm
Arrivals and Check-In
*Please note that check-in at El Habtoor Palace Budapest is 3:00 PM.

Evening at Leisure

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Monday, September 28

6:30am – 10:30am
Breakfast – Ottimo Restaurant
For guests of the Al Habtoor Palace, a complete buffet breakfast, where you can sample international flavors and Hungarian specialties, is included as a part of your specially negotiated Radiology International hotel reservation rate.

7:00am – 2:30pm
Radiology International in Budapest CME Conference Hospitality Desk – Elizabeth Ballroom Foyer
Please stop by the Hospitality Desk. Your event travel team is available to assist you with local area information and to make dinner reservations for your nights at leisure.

7:30am – 2:00pm
Scientific Session – Elizabeth Ballroom

10:00am – 11:00am
Coffee Social for Guests

10:30am – 10:45am
Coffee Break – Elizabeth Ballroom Foyer
Enjoy an upscale break with hot and cold offerings.

2:00pm
Lunch at Leisure

3:00pm – 6:00pm
Rendezvous with Budapest
Prepare to be immersed in the heart of Budapest while visiting three of its most historic and culturally significant locations: the storied Castle District, the monumental Heroes’ Square, and the opulent State Opera House. Take a journey through history, where a thousand years of Hungarian triumphs and tribulations took place.

6:30pm – 9:30pm
Welcome Reception – An Evening on the Danube
Private Dinner River Cruise

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Tuesday, September 29

6:30am – 10:30am
Breakfast – Ottimo Restaurant

7:00am – 2:30pm
Radiology International in Budapest CME Conference Hospitality Desk – Elizabeth Ballroom Foyer

7:30am – 2:00pm
Scientific Session – Elizabeth Ballroom

9:30am – 12:30pm
“Hungaricum” – A Hungarian Culinary and Craft Tour
Embark on a captivating Hungaricum tour, discovering Hungary’s unique treasures from traditional liqueurs and Market Hall delights to the intricate artistry of Herend porcelain.

10:30am – 10:45am
Coffee Break – Elizabeth Ballroom Foyer

2:00pm
Lunch at Leisure

3:00pm – 6:00pm
You may choose to participate in the following optional tours:

Treasures of the Pest Side
Immerse yourself in the heart of Budapest’s rich cultural heritage through its most cherished traditions.

Pest Side Story – Highlights of Budapest
Discover the charm of Pest on this unique tour that combines iconic sightseeing with local secrets.

Evening at Leisure

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Wednesday, September 30

6:30am – 10:30am
Breakfast – Ottimo Restaurant

7:00am – 2:30pm
Radiology International in Budapest CME Conference Hospitality Desk – Elizabeth Ballroom Foyer

7:30am – 2:00pm
Scientific Session – Elizabeth Ballroom

9:30am – 12:30pm
Budapest’s Bespoke Tour

10:30am – 10:45am
Coffee Break – Elizabeth Ballroom Foyer

2:00pm
Lunch at Leisure

3:00pm – 10:00pm
The Vineyards and Cuisine of Etyek – Gourmet Culinary Tour

Evening at Leisure (if not on Culinary Tour)

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Thursday, October 1

6:30am – 10:30am
Breakfast – Ottimo Restaurant

7:00am – 2:30pm
Radiology International in Budapest CME Conference Hospitality Desk – Elizabeth Ballroom Foyer

7:30am – 2:00pm
Scientific Session – Elizabeth Ballroom

9:30am – 12:30pm
The Alchemy of Aroma Perfume Tour

10:30am – 10:45am
Coffee Break – Elizabeth Ballroom Foyer

2:00pm
Lunch at Leisure

2:30pm – 6:30pm
Paprika Meets the Pot

3:00pm – 6:00pm
You may choose to participate in the following optional tours:

Budapest’s History on Wheels – A Monsteroller Tour

Whispers of the Past – Jewish Sites of Budapest

Evening at Leisure

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Friday, October 2

6:30am – 10:30am
Breakfast – Ottimo Restaurant

7:00am – 2:30pm
Radiology International in Budapest CME Conference Hospitality Desk – Elizabeth Ballroom Foyer

7:30am – 2:00pm
Scientific Session – Elizabeth Ballroom

9:30am – 12:30pm
The Alchemy of Aroma Perfume Tour

10:30am – 10:45am
Coffee Break – Elizabeth Ballroom Foyer

2:00pm
Lunch at Leisure

6:30pm – 11:00pm
Radiology Farewell Evening “Budapest’s Royal Table” at Gundel Palace

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Saturday, October 3

6:30am – 11:00am
Breakfast – Ottimo Restaurant

12:00pm
Guest Check Out
*Please note that guest check out at Al Habtoor Palace is at 12:00 PM.

Al Habtoor Palace Budapest

A Fusion of Timeless Elegance and Modern Luxury

Radiology International has specially negotiated conference rates for your stay at the Al Habtoor Palace for the duration of our CME in Budapest conference. Step into a sanctuary in the heart of Budapest, where old-world European grandeur meets contemporary opulence at the Al Habtoor Palace. Housed within the walls of the former Adria Palace, this exquisite hotel offers a grand, palatial experience. Located in the vibrant city center, you are mere steps away from the majestic Danube River, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the elegant Andrássy Avenue. After a day of learning and exploring during your Budapest CME conference, unwind in the tranquil spa, or swim in the indoor pool under a glass roof. Your luxurious room, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, provides a sanctuary of peace and comfort.

Please select the link to book your preferred hotel room at our special conference rates at the Al Habtoor Palace Budapest. If you are attending the Sunday tour, Back to the Middle Ages, please plan to arrive in Budapest on Saturday, September 26th.

Please select the link to be directed to the hotel’s secure online booking system where you may book your room using our preferred rates with your credit card.

Book a Room

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Room Descriptions

Superior Room

The Superior Room offers a bedroom with an elegant living area, offering a relaxing spot to unwind, ensuring every moment of your stay is one of refined comfort. The luxurious bathroom has heated marble floors, along with a separate deep-soaking bathtub and a reinvigorating rainforest shower. The Superior Room is a haven, masterfully crafted with high ceilings and intricate moldings to recall the building’s historic legacy, while the sleek, modern furnishings signal a new era of sophisticated luxury.

Room Size: 387 sq. ft. / 36 sq. m
Beds: One King bed

€330 – Double Occupancy
€300 – Single Occupancy
**Rates include breakfast;  rates are exclusive of 9% tax

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Deluxe Room

The Deluxe Room offers a bedroom with an elegant living area decorated in a color palette to reflect the cool, serene tones of the Danube River. Custom furnishings and clean lines define the space, while tall, ornate windows draw your attention to the enchanting city views. The heated floors of the marble bathroom offer a private oasis, along with a deep-soaking bathtub and a walk-in rainforest shower. The creative detail in the Deluxe Room is a perfect reflection of the playful modernism to the otherwise refined design.

Room Size: 430 sq. ft. / 40 sq. m
Beds: One King bed or two single beds

€350 – Double Occupancy
€320 – Single Occupancy
**Rates include breakfast;  rates are exclusive of 9% tax

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Cancellation Policy

HOTEL ROOM CANCELLATION POLICY
Guests may cancel and modify their reservation until one month prior to group arrival on August 26th, 2026. After this date, the full length of the stay will be charged.

Radiology International in Budapest

Back to the Middle Ages – A Day Tour of Szentendre and Visegrád

Sunday, September 27th

Depart: 9:00am
Return: 4:00pm
Fee: $285USD/Person
** Please wear comfortable walking shoes for this moderate hiking day trip.**

We will embark on an excursion to one of the most scenic and charming regions of Hungary – the Danube Bend – where the river forces its way through the steep hills in a narrow curve to reach Budapest. After a scenic 45-minute drive from Budapest, we arrive in Szentendre, where we will explore the fusion of cultures in this “town of painters”. Afterwards, a short 25-minute drive will bring us to Visegrád, a former Royal Seat with ruins that date back to the 13th century. Lunch at Restaurant Renaissance will be provided.

Szentendre is a small town traditionally known as an artist’s colony. A “must see” collection in town is the Margit Kovacs Museum, displaying the works of Margit Kovacs, the world-famous ceramic artist. On this self-guided visit, you will have time to enjoy the area on your own to explore the many museums, shops with handicrafts, souvenirs and coffee shops. We will continue on our journey to Visegrád, where the top of Salomon Tower offers stunning panoramic views. Prepare to be delighted by a historical tournament on authentic jousting grounds below the citadel. Witness period-costumed knights on horseback charge with lances in hand, demonstrating their courage and skill to win the favor of the Royal Court and infantrymen engage in intense, honorable duels with medieval weapons. The tournament is a vibrant and authentic display of chivalry and valor.

We will complete the day with a themed lunch at Restaurant Renaissance, where you will travel back in time. Here, we will enjoy a medieval feast where all dishes are prepared according to Renaissance recipes and are served by waiters dressed in period costumes.

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Rendezvous with Budapest

Monday, September 28th

Depart: 3:00pm
Return: 6:00pm
Fee: $160USD/Person
** Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.**

Prepare to be immersed in the heart of Budapest while visiting its most historic and culturally significant locations: the storied Castle District and the monumental Heroes’ Square. Take a journey through history, where a thousand years of Hungarian triumphs and tribulations took place.

In the Castle District we will take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city and winding Danube River before exploring the charming cobblestone streets of the medieval quarter. This residential quarter feels like a medieval village, with winding alleys and charming squares. As you stroll, imagine the everyday life of past centuries, where citizens, artisans, and merchants went about their business in this protected haven. Our guide will regale us with tales of Hungarian royalty and the district’s tumultuous history, which included numerous sieges and rebuilds.

While you’re out and about exploring Budapest’s Castle District, why not treat yourself to a little something special? We’ve got the inside scoop on the most exclusive opportunity in town – sipping on a delicious Hungarian drink while taking in the most breath-taking view you’ve ever seen, with a side of tantalizing traditional canapés.

After crossing over to Pest, we will travel along the grand Andrássy Avenue, also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Our destination is Heroes’ Square, one of the city’s most important landmarks. The centerpiece is the Millennium Monument, erected in 1896 to commemorate the 1,000th anniversary of the Magyar conquest of Hungary.

 

“Hungaricum” – A Hungarian Culinary and Craft Tour

Tuesday, September 29th

Depart: 9:30am
Return: 1:00pm
Fee: $285USD/Person
** Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.**

Embark on a captivating Hungaricum tour, discovering Hungary’s unique treasures from traditional liqueurs and Market Hall delights to the intricate artistry of Herend porcelain. During this tour, guests will experience the Great Market Hall, which is considered to be the most beautiful market hall in the world by CNN, where all kinds of goods can be found ranging from paprika to lace and embroidery.

Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this historic landmark, a sensory delight where you can savor local delicacies, discover traditional crafts, and admire the stunning neo-Gothic architecture and colorful Zsolnay tiled roof of this iconic building. You will have time to venture off and explore the market on your own before meeting up again to enjoy Hungaricum products: salami, cheese, pickled vegetables and strudels.

Next, step into the world of Herend porcelain at the Herend Porcelain Shop, where you can witness master artisans hand-painting delicate patterns.

Afterward, indulge in a customary coffee & cake experience at the most well-known coffee house called Café Gerbeaud. You will see how for centuries Hungarians still enjoy their down time surrounded with marble top coffee tables, crystal chandeliers, artwork on the walls.

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Treasures of the Pest Side

Tuesday, September 29th

Depart: 3:00pm
Return: 6:00pm
Fee: $215USD/Person
** Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.**

Immerse yourself in the heart of Budapest’s rich cultural heritage through its most cherished traditions. You will explore a delightful triad of Hungarian experiences: the artful tradition of strudel-making, the ancient practice of winemaking, and the sublime beauty of classical music.

Discover the delightful story of rétes, or Hungarian strudel, a flaky pastry with roots stretching back to the Austro-Hungarian Empire. During our strudel stretching presentation, you’ll witness the “see-through” pastry, which is traditionally stretched to a paper-thin consistency by skilled bakers. Taste a piece of Hungarian history when you savor a sampling of the various types of strudel.

The tour continues at the magnificent St. Stephen’s Basilica, one of Budapest’s most beautiful neoclassical landmarks. Listen to a private mini organ concert at St. Stephen’s Basilica, seated right next to the organist in a rarely seen area of the cathedral.

We will conclude the afternoon at the Domus Vinorum Wine Cellar with a guided tasting of Hungarian wines and snacks by a local sommelier. Domus Vinorum is a traditional wine cellar that offers a journey through the country’s diverse and storied winemaking regions.

Don’t miss this rare chance to see, taste, and feel the true spirit of Budapest!

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Pest Side Story – Highlights of Budapest

Tuesday, September 29th

Depart: 3:00pm
Return: 6:00pm
Fee: $160USD/Person
** Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.**

Discover the charm of Pest on this unique tour that combines iconic sightseeing with local secrets. An afternoon in Budapest is an adventure through history and elegance.

Andrassy Avenue, recognized as a World Heritage Site, is one of the most elegant avenues of Budapest. With its palaces, high-end shopping and cafés, it is certainly a must- see attraction in Budapest. We’re kicking the tour off with exclusive inside visits to the Hungarian State Opera House – that’s right, we’re talking a backstage pass to one of the most famous theatres in all the land. After the inside visit to the Opera House, enjoy a short concert by an opera singer and a glass of sparkling wine.

Next, we will arrive at Hungary’s iconic Parliament building, a colossal Neo-Gothic masterpiece, before enjoying a private visit inside the Parliament, one of Europe’s top landmarks.

 

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A Stylish Budapest Affair

Wednesday, September 30th

Depart: 9:30am
Return: 12:30pm
Fee: $275USD/Person
** Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.**

Experience a one-of-a-kind creative workshop. Walk to the fashion studio of one of the most famous designers of Hungary, Viktoria Varga, where we will create our own stylish shirts with the help of the famous fashion designer. Here we will customize a T-shirt with luxurious silk ribbons and exquisite beads where the only limit is your imagination. Viktoria’s skilled team will be by your side, guiding you through the process to ensure each creation is a unique reflection of your style.

Express yourself and leave with a personalized outfit that tells your story. Enjoy a day of artistic exploration and fun! The designer herself and her adept seamstresses will be there to assist you in turning your “masterpiece” into reality.

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A Taste of Hungary – Etyek Gourmet Tour

Wednesday, September 30th

Depart: 3:00pm
Return: 10:00pm
Fee: $345USD/Person
** Comfortable walking shoes and a light sweater are recommended.**

Enjoy the day in an immersive cultural experience in a traditional Hungarian village, filled with culinary pleasures! Step into a world where rolling vineyards meet time-honored culinary traditions on a gastronomic tour in Etyek. Located 30 km outside of Budapest and known as the “Vineyard of Budapest”, this charming white wine region is the perfect escape for this very special gastronomic tour.

Etyek is historically known for its crisp, elegant white wines, and particularly renowned for its production of sparkling wines. 82% of the vineyards are planted with white wine grapes, where Hungary’s largest sparkling wine producer began producing sparkling wines from grapes grown in the region in 1882. Savor the unique flavors born from the region’s unique terroir, from fragrant whites to complex local vintages, and let each sip tell its own story.

This exclusive tour takes us beyond the bustling city to the serene, picturesque hills of the Etyek-Buda wine region. We’ll visit an intimate, family-run winery where the local winemaker will guide us through their cellar and share the secrets of their craft, introduce us to the terroir of vineyards and help us feel the magic and romance of the countryside.

Our journey doesn’t end with wine. Our tastings will be perfectly paired with a selection of homemade gourmet Hungarian delicacies. Indulge in tempting charcuterie, artisanal cheeses that perfectly complement the wine and highlight Hungary’s rich culinary traditions. As we stroll among the wine cellars of the village, we will become familiar with the Etyek-Buda wine region while enjoying traditional Hungarian hospitality.

Tonight, we will dine at a countryside restaurant in Etyek. This restaurant offers the warmth and cozy atmosphere and a BBQ menu with local wines.

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Paprika Meets the Pot

Thursday, October 1st

Depart: 2:30pm
Return: 6:30pm
Fee: $230USD/Person

Spice up your day as you experience the art of Hungarian cuisine in this hands-on culinary experience. Fall in love with traditional Hungarian dishes. Our local chef will help us dive into the rich history of paprika, Hungary’s signature spice, learning how it transforms simple stews and sauces into unforgettable meals.

Our local chef will welcome us to their kitchen and share the secrets of Hungarian cooking. We will be led on a journey of education on spices, ingredients, and traditional cooking methods while getting hands-on experience in cooking your 3-course meal. Our class culminates in a shared meal where we will enjoy the iconic dishes we have prepared. We will leave with new culinary skills, treasured recipes, and a deep appreciation for the spicy, sweet, and soulful heart of Hungarian cuisine.

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Budapest’s History on Wheels – A Monsteroller Tour

Thursday, October 1st

Depart: 3:00pm
Return: 6:00pm
Fee: $175USD/Person
** Closed-toed shoes are required. Protective gear is provided for your safety.**

Embark on a one-of-a-kind Budapest adventure with our guided Monsteroller tour, a fun and effortless way to discover the city’s most iconic landmarks. These eco-friendly scooters with wide tires offer a smooth, stable, and uniquely exhilarating way to see the city.

Glide effortlessly along the banks of the mighty Danube River, navigate the historic Buda Castle District, and ascend Gellért Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the Citadel and the towering Liberty Statue. Our professional guides will reveal the fascinating history and stories behind the city’s most spectacular sites, making for an unforgettable journey.

We conclude our ride with a coast towards the inner city on a pathway surrounded by trees with a delicious Chimney Cake treat.

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Whispers of the Past – Jewish Sites of Budapest

Thursday, October 1st

Depart: 3:00pm
Return: 6:00pm
Fee: $96USD/Person
** Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
** When entering the synagogue, women are required to have their shoulders, arms, and legs covered. Men must wear a kippah upon entry. Appropriate garments and head coverings are provided at the entrance for both men and women.**

Step into the vibrant Jewish Quarter of Budapest and be immersed in the rich history and enduring spirit of the Jewish community. This walking tour offers an intimate and moving journey through a neighborhood that has endured centuries of change through resilience and faith.

Our tour begins with a visit to the largest synagogue in Budapest (and the second largest in the world), the Dohány Street Synagogue, a masterpiece of faith known for its striking architecture and ornate interior. Designed in the 1850s, the basilica-style hall can seat nearly 3,000 worshipers and is complete with an impressive pipe organ in its central nave.

Within the synagogue complex, we will move on to the Heroes’ Temple, a smaller sanctuary used for daily worship. Behind the synagogue lies the serene Memorial Garden, a powerful and moving tribute to the victims of the Holocaust.

Next, our guide will lead us on a walk through the historic Jewish quarter, a dynamic neighborhood once walled off as a ghetto during World War II. Here, we will be enlightened with the untold, hidden stories and buildings of the area, including the famous Gozsdu courtyard, once the core of Budapest’s Jewish quarter, which now houses restaurants, pubs, and bars. During the walk, we will visit a typical local pub, where drinks will be offered before concluding with a visit to the smaller, more intimate, Rumbach Synagogue.

Faculty and Scientific Program Agenda Coming Soon

Scientific Program Agenda Coming Soon

Budapest Post-Tour

The Grande Austrian Excursion – Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck

October 3 – 9, 2026

Single Occupancy (One Person Per Room): $6,995 Per Person
Double Occupancy (Two People Per Room): $6,195 Per Person

Post Tour Cancellation Policy

** The price includes all accommodation, applicable ground transportation, guides, meals, and activities as noted in the description below.

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POST TOUR CANCELLATION POLICY

There is a $500 non-refundable cancellation fee.

Up to May 30, 2026 (120 days): 40% cancellation fee
May 31, 2026 – June 29, 2026 (119-90 days): 60% cancellation fee
After June 29, 2026: 100% cancellation fee

** Due to the requirement to prepay our ground suppliers 90 days in advance for all services, we highly recommend that you purchase trip cancellation insurance in the event of unexpected circumstances or emergencies.

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Day 1: Saturday, October 3, 2026 – Arrival Day

We depart Budapest on a scenic 2 and ½ hour train ride to Vienna, Austria, featuring beautiful landscapes along the way. As we leave the vibrant city of Budapest, we travel through the picturesque landscapes of the Hungarian countryside, and continue along the Danube river, with stunning views of the river and surroundings. The journey proceeds into the Austrian countryside, featuring rolling hills, green meadows and charming towns before arriving in Vienna.

Upon arriving, we will have lunch at a typical Viennese restaurant and then join our local guide to explore the quaint and narrow streets that will lead us through the city of Vienna. Experience the city’s unique charm as you stroll along these historic pathways, where every corner seems to whisper tales of the past. Vienna is a city steeped in rich history and adorned with exquisite architecture. Admire the stunning façades that line the streets, each a testament to the city’s grandeur. Our guide will point out the finest examples of Vienna’s architectural heritage and share insights into their significance. As we walk, we will view iconic landmarks, including the magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the awe-inspiring Imperial Palace, both witnesses to the city’s illustrious past. While Vienna is known for its grandeur, it also boasts an array of tranquil green spaces.

Next, we will enjoy a short, private concert at the Sala Terrena of the Teutonic Order, where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart performed for his elitist audience. This spectacular room is a vaulted hall with a shallow dome, beautifully decorated with illusionist murals of the late 18th century. We will conclude our musical adventure by learning to waltz in the city where the dance was invented, as well as getting to know the traditions of Viennese Balls and the etiquette associated with this historic tradition.

Following the afternoon’s activities, we arrive at The Almanac Palais, a boutique luxury hotel located in two 19th-century palais buildings on Vienna’s renowned Ringstrasse, across from Stadtpark. The hotel combines historic architecture with modern design, offering spacious rooms and suites, a spa with a 14m indoor pool, and a restaurant serving modern Austrian cuisine. The Almanac Palais Vienna’s prime location makes exploring Vienna seamless, either on foot or via public transport. The proximity to major sights, combined with the peaceful setting, allows for a perfect mix of cultural immersion and relaxation.

Tonight, dinner will be at Huth Gastwirtschaft, which combines traditional Austrian cuisine with modern elegance. The restaurant specializes in traditional Viennese dishes, including the emperor’s favorite dish, “Tafelspitz”, as well as exclusive Austrian wines.

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Day 2: Sunday, October 4, 2026

After an indulgent breakfast at The Almanac Palais and checking out of the hotel, we will begin our day with a performance by the Vienna Boys Choir, where they perform at the Holy Mass at the Imperial Chapel each Sunday. In this intimate setting, we will listen to the boys’ angel-like voices as they perform on the balcony of the chapel.

Afterwards, we will continue to the next highlight: the Spanish Riding School, which is the oldest and the last Riding Institute where the classical art of riding is cultivated in its purest form and brought to perfection. It owes its name to the fact that since its foundation in the second half of the 16th century, only stallions of Spanish origin were trained in “Haute Ecole” (High School) because of their strength, intelligence and nobility, making them eminently suited to it.

The baroque hall of the Riding School was built under Emperor Charles VI and is where the Lipizzaner stallions perform their “white ballet”. The riders, or Bereiter, have dedicated years to the art of classical horsemanship, mastering subtle cues to make the performance appear effortless. We will witness the harmony between rider and horse as they perform in a spectacle of grace and precision.

We proceed to the station to board the 2.5-hour journey aboard the high-speed comfortable and modern train, passing the dramatic scenery of the Eastern Alps and breathtaking Austrian landscape. Upon arrival in Salzburg, we will check into the Goldener Hirsch Hotel, a historic, five-star luxury hotel dating back to 1407. Located in the heart of the Old Town at the famous Getreidegasse, the Goldener Hirsch combines traditional Austrian design with historic charm, featuring antique furnishings and Austrian-style textiles in its rooms and suites. The hotel is a short walk from many of Salzburg’s historical sites.

Tonight, we will dine at the Herzl restaurant, located in the hotel, which preserves the ambiance of a rustic fifteenth-century inn with heartfelt hospitality and delicious food served in a cozy wood-paneled dining room with stone pillars and historic décor.

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Day 3: Monday, October 5, 2026

After breakfast, we will discover the charming old center of Salzburg on an Old Town walk, where most of the city’s sights are located. The area is a pedestrian zone, perfect for leisurely strolls and taking in the stunning architecture. We will begin our journey with a visit to Mirabell Palace, the famous filming location from The Sound of Music, and prepare to be mesmerized by the palace’s beautiful gardens.

Next, we will cross the picturesque Salzach River and stroll through the Old Town. We will take in the magnificent Festival Theatres, which date back to 1120, and admire the sublime Cathedral. This Baroque masterpiece stands as the finest building north of the Alps, with its impressive dome and stunning interior. Don’t forget to stop at the Old Market Square and enjoy the lively atmosphere, complete with a Carillon (Glockenspiel). Our adventure continues by exploring the Getreidegasse, the commercial center, which is the epitome of elegance. Take note of the iron decorative shop signs above every entrance! As we make our way towards the City Hall, we will be sure to check out Mozart’s Birthplace, a typical old Salzburg burgher’s house. Indulge in the charming atmosphere of Salzburg’s old center, as you go back in time and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history.

Today, lunch, the remainder of the afternoon, and dinner will be at your leisure to take advantage of the hotel property and its facilities or explore the city on your own.

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Day 4: Tuesday, October 6, 2026

Enjoy a rich selection of fresh and homemade breakfast delicacies Rosa Salon, which offers a breakfast buffet with seasonal products from regional producers. This morning, we will embark on a guided tour of the Lake District. The Salzkammergut has been a source of inspiration for many operetta composers, who have created numerous lively melodies. Salzburg’s Prince-Archbishops used to hold splendid hunts in the area, and Emperor Franz Joseph himself spent many summer days on the lakes of the Salzkammergut. Starting from Salzburg, our tour takes us to St. Gilgen, where we will enjoy a charming walk through the old town, passing by the house where Mozart’s mother was born.

Then we head to Lake Wolfgang, where we will take a scenic boat ride to St. Wolfgang and admire the famous gothic winged altar by Michael Pacher. Our next stop on the tour is the spa town of Bad Ischl, known for its imperial history and as the former summer residence of the Habsburg imperial family and where we will take a photo stop. After that, we will take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful old town and enjoy a delicious lunch at one of Salzburg’s most famous cafés.

Next, we will step into the enchanting world of “The Sound of Music” in this captivating saga of the Von Trapp family on our unforgettable themed tour through Salzburg, where the true story of this famous family comes to life. We will explore the iconic filming locations and discover the historical and architectural gems that make Salzburg a must-visit destination.

After a scenic 25-minute ride, we will arrive in Mondsee, home to the picturesque wedding church that featured prominently in the film. Finally, we arrive at the beautiful Hellbrunn Castle – a delightful early baroque country palace built for Prince Archbishop Marcus Sitticus. In the palace park, we’ll find the romantic gazebo where Liesl and Franz performed the song “Sixteen Going on Seventeen”.

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Day 5: Wednesday, October 7, 2026

After breakfast, we will check out and continue to Innsbruck, the Alpine Capital. After a 1 hour, 45-minute train ride, upon disembarking in Innsbruck, we enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and then embark on a city stroll that introduces you to Innsbruck’s fascinating history and some of its most beautiful buildings. In Innsbruck, the mountains and city are closer together than anywhere else in the Alps. The impressive backdrop of the Nordkette mountain range forms the unique panorama and can be seen from almost every lane of the medieval town.

As we tour its narrow lanes, pastel facades with intricate frescoes catch the light, each building a masterpiece of craftsmanship and pride. Ornate balconies overflow with flowers, while the scent of freshly baked pastries drifts from tucked-away cafes. You can almost feel the pulse of history in the rhythm of the streets – the echo of horse-drawn carriages, the murmur of scholars and artisans who once filled these same passageways. The city seems both timeless and youthful, a harmony of old-world grace and modern ease. Before our day of traversing Innsbruck ends, we will explore the multitude of shops which feature delicate ornaments, local designs, and treasures that capture the spirit of the mountains. Innsbruck’s charm lingers in every keepsake and memory gathered along the way.

We make our way to the Stage 12 Hotel, a modern hotel with a prime location in Innsbruck’s Old Town, with easy access to shopping and dining. Your luggage will be waiting for you in your room, so relax, get settled and enjoy dinner at leisure in this beautiful Alpine city.

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Day 6: Thursday, October 8, 2026

This morning, after enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we will have an exclusive opportunity to tour Swarovski Crystal World. It was founded in 1895 by Daniel Swarovski, who revolutionized the crystal industry with his innovative cutting techniques. The company quickly became renowned for its precision-cut crystals, which were used in fashion, jewelry, and lighting. Over the years, Swarovski has grown into a global brand, synonymous with luxury and craftsmanship. For the company’s 100th birthday, Crystal World was created. We will embark on a captivating tour through the chambers of wonder, a series of unique installations created by renowned artists and designers. Each chamber offers a distinct experience, blending art, technology, and crystal craftsmanship.

Afterwards, we will have time to shop in the world’s largest Swarovski store and enjoy some time at the stunning Crystal Garden, featuring the renowned Crystal Cloud which contains over 800,000 crystals, all mounted manually for the perfect shimmer.

After lunch, we will tour Schloss Ambras Castle, the oldest museum in the world, which is situated upon a cliff 330 feet above the valley floor created by the River Inn. Dating back to the 10th century, it achieved more than just local importance long before Innsbruck became a city. Emperor Ferdinand II steered the ship of state of the County of Tyrol and in further Austria for a period of around 30 years. Ferdinand II was both an acclaimed politician, as well as an outstanding humanist ruler who made an essential contribution to the spread of Renaissance culture in Central Europe. The historical importance of the castle doubtless lies in the fact that the archduke had assembled a renowned collection of armor, weapons, portraits, as well as scientific instruments, musical instruments, and precious items at Ambras, which he accommodated in a museum built specifically for that purpose.

Following the castle tour, we will have an exclusive visit to the castle’s herb garden, where we will learn about scientific herbalism and how nurturing ointment is manufactured using plants.

Dinner this evening will be at Wilder Mann in Lans. Traditional dishes using mostly local produce with flavors bearing evidence of Tyrolean influence are served in the restaurant’s cozy dining room.

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Day 7: Friday, October 9, 2026

After a final breakfast at the hotel, we will check out of Stage 12 Hotel and transfer to the airport.