Grand Reformation Tour
September 1-13, 2026
Germany - France - Switzerland
Christ Community Church Private Group Tour. A journey of discovery and enlightenment as we travel along the Reformation Road through Luther’s Germany, Bucer in Strasbourg, Calvin in Geneva, and Zwingli in Zurich.
Together we will visit some of the most significant places in the life of the Protestant reformers in Germany, France and Switzerland.
Stand where it all happened! Visit the historic Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany where Martin Luther nailed his 95-Theses igniting a movement that would change the world forever. Follow the path where John Calvin preached and stoked the fires of the Reformation in Geneva, and learn how Zurich made its most significant mark on Christian history with Zwingli and the Swiss Reformation. Be a part of this journey of faith, history, and natural beauty as we travel the Reformation Road! Together in Christ, Pastor Dennis
QUESTIONS? Contact 1.844.777.1517 or email info@luthertours.com
Zurich, Switzerland
ITINERARY
Meals: B-Breakfast, D-Dinner
Day 1, Depart USA to Berlin, Germany
Day 2, Arrive Berlin, Wittenberg, Germany (D)
Upon an early morning arrival, the group will be met at the Berlin airport by our professional European Tour Manager who will accompany the group throughout the journey. The tour manager will escort the group to our private motor coach. We begin your journey with a panoramic driving sightseeing tour of the famous Berlin landmarks Check-Point Charlie border crossing of Cold War days and Berlin Wall Memorial. Enjoy a walk through the Brandenburg Gate to visit the Berliner Dom – Berlin’s largest and most prominent Protestant church. After a stop for lunch, we visit the Bonhoeffer-House Memorial and Place of Encounter to learn more about the life of Bonhoeffer, a Berlin pastor and professor of theology known for resistance to Nazi dictatorship at a time when racism ruled Germany, victimizing religious, ethnic, and social minorities. Later this afternoon we continue our journey along the Reformation Road through the German countryside to Lutherstadt Wittenberg, also known as the “cradle of the Reformation”. We will check in to the hotel and meet for a “welcome to Germany” dinner. Overnight Wittenberg
Day 3, Lutherstadt Wittenberg, W.E.M. Worship Service (B)
We awake in Lutherstadt Wittenberg and after a full German breakfast, we’ll meet a local guide who will lead us through the city and share the fascinating history and life of Martin Luther. Together we will walk the places where Luther walked with his fellow Reformation colleagues and visit some of the most historic sights of Luther’s life and work. We visit the Luther House Museum Augusteum special exhibition " Literally Luther. Facets of a Reformer.” with key exhibits from the museum collection which is currently under renovations through spring 2027. Here you will view some of Luther's personal library, rare manuscripts, early Bibles, and some of the pamphlets Luther had printed that stoked the fires of the Reformation.
Stand in awe at the historic Schlosskirche (Castle Church) where Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the doors of the church igniting the movement that would change the world. Visit the beautiful Stadtkirche (St. Mary’s Church) where Luther preached and where his children were baptized. Notice the amazing detail in the Reformation theme altar painted by Lucas Cranach, a close friend of both Luther and his wife, Katie. This afternoon is at leisure, stroll the market square, perhaps a visit (small admission fee) to the Philipp Melanchthon Haus Museum- Luther’s friend and close advisor who helped to establish the German educational system and who presented the Augsburg Confession of Peace. This evening, dinner is on your own to dine with some of your new friends at the hotel restaurant, or your tour manager can provide suggestions for one of the many cafes, restaurants or dining gardens within walking distance of the hotel. Worship Service with W.E.M. (Wittenberg English Ministry). Overnight Wittenberg
Day 4, Lutherstadt Eisleben, Erfurt, (B, D)
This morning, we continue our journey in the footsteps of the Reformer, Martin Luther to Lutherstadt Eisleben. Our guide will lead a walking tour of this quaint city including visits to the houses where Luther was born in 1483, and where he died in 1546, St. Peters Church where Luther was baptized, St. Andrew’s Church where Luther preached his last four sermons and where his body was laid in state, and St. Anne’s Church to view the only stone-carved biblical scenes in Europe. Afterwards we continue on to Erfurt, the town of supreme importance to the reformer’s life and work. It was here, in Erfurt, where Luther turned to theology and the monastic life when he was caught in a violent thunderstorm nearby and vowed to become a monk. Group will meet for dinner. Overnight Erfurt
Requesting guesthouse accommodations at the Augustinian Monastery, an authentic Luther site with a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
Day 5, Erfurt, Buchenwald Memorial (B)
After breakfast we’ll meet our guide for a private tour of the Augustinian Monastery where Luther lived as a monk from 1505-1511 and where he worshiped and was inspired to create the Luther seal. Afterwards, we continue our walking tour through the city with a stroll across the remarkable Merchants' Bridge, the longest bridge in Europe to have houses along its entire length, then a visit to the ensemble of St. Mary's Cathedral where Luther was ordained and the Church of St. Severus.
After lunch, you may choose to enjoy the city on your own, or join your tour manager for a drive to visit nearby Buchenwald Memorial, one of the first and the largest of the concentration camps within the Altreich. Overnight Erfurt
Day 6, Wartburg Castle, Eisenach and J.S. Bach (B, D)
This morning after breakfast we drive to the famous Wartburg Castle, sitting majestically overlooking the forests of Thuringia and has witnessed 900 years of history and culture. It was here in 1521, while fleeing from the wrath of the Pope, Luther took refuge and translated the New Testament into German in just 11 weeks. A local guide will lead us through this medieval castle and the fascinating history including the “Luther Room”.
Afterwards, we will visit the quaint town of Eisenach, the birthplace of J. S. Bach, and where young Martin Luther lived as a schoolboy while attending St. George's School. You can choose to hike a small portion of the Luther Weg (Luther Trail) downhill from the Wartburg Castle to the city of Eisenach, or hop on the coach for a quick transfer. Our group will gather and visit St. George Church, which contains the font where Bach was baptized.
Next, we visit the Bach Haus Museum. The exhibits housed in a half-timbered building from 1456 bring Bach’s era to life with original furniture, multimedia music displays, and live musical performances on historic instruments. Afterwards, we continue our journey to Mainz, where the Roman relics give away to the fact of its over 2000-year heritage! Our group will check-in to the hotel and meet for dinner. Overnight Mainz
Day 7, Gutenberg Museum-Worlds 1st Printed Bible, Rhine River Cruise (B)
We awake in Mainz, the lovely city on the Rhine River, known for its old town, with half-timbered houses and medieval market squares. After breakfast we will meet our tour manager for a walking tour through the old town with its magnificent baroque buildings; including a visit to the 1050-year-old Romanesque Mainz Cathedral (dating back to 975). Here we view the world-famous and beautiful Chagall stained-glass windows, and St. Stephan’s Church with its huge neo-Renaissance cupola of Christchurch.
Also included, a visit to the Gutenberg Museum honoring Johann Gutenberg the inventor of the printing press. Here we view the 2-copies of his Bibles, centuries-old manuscripts and the printing presses. After a break for lunch on our own, this afternoon enjoy a relaxing Rhine River Cruise along one of the most picturesque stretches of this majestic Rhine waterway past magnificent castles and the fascinating backdrop of the Loreley Rock. This evening, dinner is on your own at the hotel restaurant, or your tour manager can provide suggestions for one of the many cafes, restaurants or dining gardens nearby the hotel. Overnight Mainz
Day 8, Worms, Heidelberg (B, D)
Today we continue our journey along the Reformation Road to the city of Worms and location of the Worms Debates (Diet of Worms). It was here where Luther was summoned in 1521 to appear before an Imperial Diet to justify his conduct. We visit the world’s largest Memorial to the Reformation and the Church of the Holy Trinity, and view St. Peter’s Cathedral- one of the most exquisite examples of Romanesque architecture.
We’ll learn more about another Reformer, William Tyndale, who finished his printing of the English Bible in Worms, escaping persecution in England.In 1525 his New Testament was printed and smuggled back into England. It was the first translation of the Bible from the original Greek into English (and known to be the first translation of a Greek book into English.)
We complete our day in the city of Heidelberg, a lovely town on the Neckar River. First, we visit the Heidelberg Castle and Gardens, where the Heidelberg Confession was written in 1653.
Afterwards, our guide will lead our walking tour of the city including the Reformation Memorial site in University Square commemorating the important first steps of the Reformation.
Even back in Luther's day, student life shaped Heidelberg, Germany's oldest university town. Heidelberg was a milestone on the way to the Reformation. Luther's (not without danger) trip to Heidelberg in 1518 was his first theological appearance outside Wittenberg after his 95 theses were posted on October 31, 1517. At the appointment of the Augustinian Order and Elector Ludwig V, he led the Heidelberg Disputation in the local Augustinian monastery in April 1518 and defended the basic idea of his new theology - the complete dependence of man on the grace of God. This interesting walk takes you through the city in the footsteps of Luther. Overnight Heidelberg
Day 9, Strasbourg, France / Zurich, Switzerland (B, D)
Today we cross the land border to France, to the quaint city of Strasbourg, home of the E.U.'s European Parliament, the 'City of Hope', or 'Refuge of the Righteous' as the Anabaptists like to refer to it. We’ll learn about the Reformer, John Calvin and how due to growing persecution in Paris, France he came to settle in Strasbourg to live the life of a quiet Christian scholar and author. His book, Institutes In Christian Religion in 1536, on systematic theology, was popular as it presented Reformed doctrine in an easy to read, systematic manner. Calvin later went on to Geneva, Switzerland, where the Lord mightily used this Reformer.
We'll tour the Strasbourg Cathedral, St. Thomas's Church the principal protestant church in Strasbourg since 1549 and the burial site of Martin Bucer, another important Reformation leader. We view the Statue of the Reformers in the university, the Astronomical clock and the historic 'La Petite Strasbourg' quarter. After some time at leisure to shop and enjoy lunch, we continue our journey along the Reformation Road to Zurich, Switzerland.
The story of Christianity in Zurich begins at the end of the 3rd century however; Zurich made its most significant mark on Christian history in the early 16th century with Huldrych Zwingli and the Swiss Reformation. Group meets for dinner. Overnight Zurich
Day 10, Zurich, Mount Pilatus (B)
We awake in Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, and home to many key figures in the Swiss Reformation. Today a local guide will share more about Zwingli and the most important Reformation sites in Zurich on a walking tour along the narrow-cobbled streets of the Old City. We visit the Grossmunster (Great Church) which bears evidence of Zwingli’s influence, Fraumunster (Our Lady Church) with its graceful spire and stained-glass windows created by Chagall depicting the Prophets, the life of Jacob, the life of Christ, and the creation in Genesis. Time for lunch.
This afternoon, we continue our journey south for a unique experience aboard the steepest cogwheel railway in the world at Mount Pilatus. Enjoy a breathtaking 30-minute journey each way passing alpine meadows and striking rock formations, as you climb to the mountain top for spectacular views of the valley and lakes below. Overnight Lucerne
Day 11, Lucerne, Geneva (B, D)
We awake in lovely Lucerne, the only Swiss town that began as a monastery. The city bordering pristine Lake Lucerne and home to many elaborate churches and some very famous medieval bridges! We’ll meet a local guide for our walking sightseeing tour to view the ornate patrician houses along the cobbled streets and the Musegg Wall and Towers with its nine towers (offering spectaculars views from the top) are part of Lucerne's historic fortifications; forming a striking crown around the Old Town. Stroll across the world-famous Kapellbrucke (Chapel Bridge) dating back to the 14th century, a covered wooden bridge with its series of ancient paintings nearly 400-years old, and iconic symbol of Lucerne. Close by is the Spreurerbrucke (Spreuer Bridge), dating from 1408.
Time at leisure for shopping and lunch before continuing our journey along the Reformation Road, through spectacular scenery, to the dazzling city of Geneva. It’s lakeside promenade, boulevards, parks and gardens are captivating, but Geneva’s Jet d’Eau is its true symbol. This fountain shoots a plume of water 500 feet in the air. Group will meet for dinner. Overnight Geneva
Day 12, Geneva (B)
Today we meet a local guide for a guided-tour of Geneva’s Reformation highlights. It was here in Geneva that John Calvin and John Knox brought Christ's teachings to eager listeners. Genevan Christians trace their faith back to 4th century Roman times. We’ll view Geneva’s most important landmarks and cultural sites, including the Palais des Nation (United Nations Building), the headquarters of the International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Museum of Reformation. Our full-day tour will start at the waterfront, famous for its Flower Clock and English Gardens, and continueto the old town area, where we'll tour Cathedrale St. Pierre (St. Peter’s Cathedral). This is where John Calvin preached and stoked the fires of the Reformation in Geneva, winning thousands to the Lord. You can see Calvin's chair (but you can't sit in it!). It's only 157 steps up to the top of the North Tower, where the view is worth the effort. Under the cathedral are the ruins of a Roman sanctuary (350AD), a 4th century basilica and a 6th century church that were unearthed in the 1970’s.
Next, we visit the International Museum of the Reformation where we view reformation objects, art and ancient artifacts. We’ll enjoy a stop in the town center for lunch on our own before continuing on to view the Reformation Monument. This monument is as grand as the leaders it honors- 325’ long and 30’ high. This massive wall pays homage to the 16th century Calvinist Reformation and those who followed. Statues of 4-Reformation leaders stand as sentinals: William Farel (who brought Calvin to Geneva); John Calvin (second only to Luther in the Protestant Reformation); Theodore Beza (who succeeded Calvin as leader of the Swiss Reformation) and; John Knox (who taught here before taking the Reformation to Scotland). We'll ponder the impact these people made for Christ's kingdom and pray right here. Close by is the Auditoire de Calvin (Calvin's Academy, also known as The Protestant Lecture Hall), where the inspired theologian himself taught. John Knox also taught here for three years. This evening is at leisure. Overnight Geneva
Day 13, Tour Ends (B)
Group transfer from the hotel to the Geneva airport for our flights back to the USA. Itinerary subject to change.
Itinerary subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Travelers must travel with a passport valid for at least 6-months beyond your return travel date.
Non-US passport holders contact LT for credentials required to travel. Additional credentials to travel advised as details are received for your departure.
Tour Level: Moderate Active Traveler, Walking Sightseeing Tour
Most sightseeing tours are walking tours and many of the historic sites you will visit date back hundreds to thousands of years and may not provide elevators and ramps for physically challenged travelers. If you or you will be traveling with someone who has special needs -use a wheelchair, walker, and hearing or visually impaired please contact LutherTours.
TOUR INCLUDES
Professional Tour Manager with expertise in Reformation history
Our tour managers and local destination specialist are experts- sharing the nuances of the unique environments and making history come to life. Their extensive knowledge in Reformation and cultural history, will ensure you have an exceptional journey of enlightenment.
Deluxe Air-conditioned Motor Coach with toilet
11- Nights Charming 4-star Hotel Accommodations including guesthouse accommodations at the Augustinian Monastery, an authentic Luther site with a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. To be advised.
Hotel Taxes
Breakfast Daily, 6- Dinners
Gratuities for included meals
Picturesque Rhine River Sightseeing Cruise
Time to Reflect and Worship in sacred places
Private Guided Museum Visits
Wartburg and Heidelburg Medieval Castles Visits
Cogwheel Railway to top of Mount Pilatus
Bonhoeffer-House Memorial Visit
Buchenwald Memorial Visit
Worship Service at the churches where Martin Luther worshipped
Walk the Luther Way Hiking Trail (or in the comfort of the private coach)
Admission as indicated in itinerary
Group Airport transfers in Berlin and Geneva when purchasing group flight arrangements
Reformation Altar Piece by Lucas Cranach, Wittenberg, Germany
TOUR PRICE is Per Person Based on Double Occupancy
$4,665 with 32 travelers
$4,765 with 27 travelers
$5,165 with 22 travelers
$5,885 with 17 travelers
Single Occupancy Add $1,090
Tour prices subject to currency fluctuation.
OPTIONAL: GROUP AIRFARE is additional to the tour price and requires a minimum of 10 travelers on the same flights.
Group flight arrangements to be advised 11-months prior to travel dates.
Group Airfare includes group airport transfers in Berlin and Geneva, 1 checked bag, 1-carry-on bag, 1-personal item, and a preassigned seat
OPTIONAL: GROUP AIRPORT TRANSFERS IN EUROPE for those not purchasing LT group flight arrangements
Include round trip airport transfers with the group for only $50 per person. You will travel on the motorcoach with the group upon arrival and departure of the group flights.
PAYMENT
Deposit $350 per person (nonrefundable) along with a completed tour registration form
Balance due 75-Days Prior to Departure (a reminder will be sent)
NOT INCLUDED
Passport Fee, Visa fee if applicable. At this time, a visa is not required for US passport holders.
Gratuities for European Tour Manager, European local tour guides, motor coach driver, hotel housekeepers
Personal Items such as internet Wi-Fi charges and phone calls, meals and beverages not listed
Any item not listed above under Tour Includes
Reformation Monument, Worms, Germany
Penalties up to 100% apply. Please be aware of the LutherTours complete Booking Agreement Terms and Conditions of Travel and Cancellation policy, a copy is included with each individual tour confirmation, available by contacting our office directly 1.844.777.1517 or online at www.LUTHERTOURS.com and click Terms & Conditions to view details.
All travelers must travel with a passport valid for at least 6-months beyond your return travel date. Non-US passport holders contact LT for additional credentials required to travel. E.T.I.A.S. European electronic visa may be required. Details to be advised as updated information is received.
Requirements may change, continue to check travel requirements up to the day of departure.
LT and its travel partners reserve the right to alter the itinerary if necessary. Prices subject to currency fluctuation. Itinerary subject to change.
Cancellations regardless of the reason are costly. Are you prepared?
Cancellation, Interruption, Medical and Baggage Insurance is available with many companies to help with unexpected delays, interruptions and cancellations.
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Tour Registration
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