Imperial Vienna at Christmas

Tour Introduction

What better place to spend Christmas than Imperial Vienna? Unashamedly beautiful Vienna has everything you would want for the perfect seasonal break: an incomparably rich history, opulent architecture, engaging museums, vibrant Christmas markets and a people who celebrate with vivacity and style. You can also enjoy a coffee in a historic cafe or a warming Glühwein amongst Baroque splendour. Join us for a convivial and cultured Christmas in the heart of Europe.

Background

From its origins in the Roman camp of Vindobona, to the seat of power of the massive Austro-Hungarian Empire and capital of the modern Republic of Austria, Vienna has had a long and varied history. Benefitting from its strong trading location on the banks of the Danube and a crossing point between Europe and the Balkans, from 976 AD Vienna became the politically powerful capital of the Babenberg dynasty. In the late thirteenth century the Hapsburgs took over the lands of Austria and Vienna entered its heyday as the centre of power of one of the most powerful dynasties ever to rule Europe, and by the 1400s capital of the Holy Roman Empire. As the Ottoman Empire expanded northwards Vienna became something of a border city and succeeded in withstanding Turkish sieges in 1529 and, most famously, 1683. As the Ottoman threat waned the city grew in size and prestige with architecture befitting an Imperial capital. The renowned Baroque architects Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach and Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt left their imprimatur on the capital and enormous palaces were built standing as bold statements of Hapsburg power. Despite being occupied by Napoleon’s forces in 1805 and 1809 Vienna’s glory continued to shine and the nineteenth century was its political and cultural apogee. A centre of art, music and literature Vienna became Europe’s cultural jewel and had a population of over 2 million by 1910. The downfall of the Hapsburgs after the First World War led to the city’s role as a republican city, although it was briefly dominated by the Nazis.

Vienna’s long history is represented spectacularly by an outstanding cityscape and it remains a truly compelling destination.

What's Included

• 4 Star Hotel
• Return flights from London (optional)
• Dedicated Tour Manager
• Expert historians throughout providing a daily variety of talks, presentations and Q&A
• Entrance fees for sites included in itinerary
• The company of like-minded travelers
• Dinner parties hosted by your expert historians and tour manager
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary
• Two drinks i,e wine or beer at each dinner and a welcome drink on first evening
• Helpful and friendly travel advice
• Tour information booklet
• Modern, comfortable, air-conditioned coach