December 5-12, 2024
Starting in mid-November, Vienna begins to transform its beautiful squares into magical Christmas Markets. The best markets are those with impressive backdrops – marbled palaces and cathedrals that tower above in shimmering festive lights. The aroma of toasted almonds, warm gluhwein, and sweet baked treats drifts through the crisp almost winter air. Can you smell it yet?
WTA has thought of everything on this weeklong holiday getaway to Austria and nearby Bratislava, Slovakia. Join WTA to pay tribute to centuries-old traditions and local craftsmanship at three of Vienna’s top Christmas Markets. Venture to the very top of the city on Vienna’s giant Ferris wheel, and discover why they call it the City of Music as you delight in the sounds of Mozart and Strauss. Slow your pace as you travel to nearby Burgenland where you will relish in lush spa treatments and sample delectable local wines. Experience the WTA difference while joining a local family for an authentic holiday celebration and traditional Austrian dinner. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity you don’t want to pass up!
Note: We recommend leaving the US on December 4 so that your flight arrives the morning of December 5 – early enough to participate in Day 1’s activities. Should you wish to arrive on December 4 instead, pre-trip hotel charges will be added to your final bill.
- Activity Level
Travel
ITINERARY
DAY 1 – December 5 – Willkommen in Österreich! Your journey begins as you land at Vienna International Airport (VIE) where private transportation will be waiting to whisk you away to your accommodations in the heart of Vienna. After settling in, gather with your fellow travelers for a warm welcome dinner at a local restaurant. This evening you will get your first taste of the splendor that Belvedere Christmas Market offers.
Note: We recommend your flight from the US arrives before 12 pm on December 5 to allow adequate time to join the day’s activities.
DAY 2 – December 6 – A bird’s eye view of the city is a great way to get acquainted with Vienna! Join your group this morning for a ride on Vienna’s Ferris wheel before exploring the city’s largest Christmas Market: Christkindlmarkt on the Rathausplatz. Afterward you will experience true Viennese coffeehouse culture, before attending an evening concert and dinner dedicated to the sounds of Vienna’s own Mozart and Strauss.
DAY 3 – December 7 – FREE Day. Today is you decide, whether you opt for a day of shopping, or a visit to one of Vienna’s renowned museums this day is yours. If relaxation is calling your name take it easy and peruse the city streets filled with holiday cheer. As night falls, soak in the magic of the Stephansplatz Christmas Market, nestled in the heart of Vienna, before a delightful genuine Austrian holiday celebration with a local family.
DAY 4 – December 8 – Today, bid adieu to urban vistas as you journey to the picturesque countryside of Burgenland, Austria’s renowned wine region. Settle into your accommodations at St. Martins Therme and relish a tranquil afternoon exploring their numerous thermal pools or partake in a lush spa treatment.
DAY 5 – December 9 – Nobody does brunch quite like this! Savor the many flavors of Austrian cuisine at St. Martin’s breakfast buffet before you explore the local beauty surrounding Neusiedler See – Seewinkel National Park. This day you will indulge in the fragrant wines at a local Austrian winery.
DAY 6 – December 10 – Depart Vienna on a short train ride to Bratislava, the capital city of Slovakia. Upon arrival, embark on a private walking tour that takes you through all the notable landmarks, from the presidential palace to Bratislava’s Baroque castle dating back to 907 A.D. This delightful tour will tantalize your senses with both historical charm and Christmas cheer.
DAY 7 – December 11 – FREE Day. Today is the last full day on your unforgettable Christmas Market tour, spend the day as you please before reveling in the festivities of the Bratislavan Christmas Markets one final time. To encapsulate this evening you will toast to the memories made with new friends and savor the delightful flavors of this region’s cuisine.
DAY 8 – December 12 – In the morning, board the train for a short ride from Bratislava back to Vienna, arriving at Vienna International Airport (VIE) for your connecting flight to the US, which should depart after 1 pm.
*Please note that this is a tentative itinerary and it is subject to change.
Ease
PRICING: $6,245
Early Bird Price: $5,995
Complete your registration by September 3oth, 2023 at 12 pm EST to receive the discounted rate.
Comfort
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- 8 days & 7 nights’ accommodations
- Single occupancy, boutique hotels
- Airport transfer
- Local transportation
- Tour of Vienna Christmas Markets
- Ferris Wheel Admission
- “Sounds of Vienna” Concert
- Spa Access at St. Martins Therme
- Local Wine Tasting
- Private city tour of Bratislava
- Authentic Austrian Home Experience
- FREE DAY to explore
- Daily breakfast
- Daily group lunch (excluding FREE DAY)
- Daily group dinner (a la carte)
- COVID antigen testing for USA re-entry, if applicable
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:
- Roundtrip airfare from the USA to Vienna International Airport (VIE)
- Items personal in nature
- Meals not listed above
- Travel Insurance
- Optional excursions and tours not listed above
- Gratuities and tips for personal services
Style
TRAVEL INSURANCE:
Your trip is a BIG investment. If you cannot afford to lose the money you have invested to travel, for whatever reason, WTA strongly recommends you consider travel insurance. We encourage you to do your due diligence by researching and finding the best plan for YOU.
Suggested Travel Insurance companies are below. Ensure you inquire about a “Cancel For Any Reason” plan.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
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Traveler must make a NONREFUNDABLE deposit payment of $400 at time of registration to secure her spot.
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Monthly minimum payment of $400 is required every month until paid in full to keep your reservations current.
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Trip balance must be PAID IN FULL by September 5, 2024.
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Penalty of $250 will be assessed on any balance due after the September 5, 2024 final payment deadline.
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Cancel by October 5, 2024 for a 50% refund (not to include your non-refundable deposit).
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NO REFUNDS after October 5, 2024.
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Please contact wtaadmin@womentravelabroad.com with any questions.