Christian forefathers, captivating cultures, ancient treasures, medieval villages, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend the performance of the Passion Play Oberammergau.
A promise to God made in times of absolute misery by the people of Oberammergau, Germany in 1633. Attend this dramatic performance depicting the Passion of Christ, including the trial, suffering and death of Jesus Christ.
Come along and experience this cultural journey through legendary Italy accompanied by the best food and wines in the world and the splendor and peaceful serenity of Germany's breathtaking Bavarian Alps. Don’t miss this spiritual journey of discovery, and enlightenment. Your tour host Reverend Tim Runtsch, Redeemer Lutheran Church. Tour is Full. Available tour dates see July 5-19, 2022
ITINERARY
B- Breakfast, L- Lunch, D- Dinner
Day 1, June 21 Depart USA to Rome, Italy
Day 2, June 22 Benvenuto in Italia! (D)
Upon arrival of our flight at Rome Airport you will complete the passport and immigrations process, exit to the ground transportation area where you will be met by our professional tour manager who will escort the group to our private motorcoach. Our group will transfer from the Rome airport to the city center, where we will check-in to the Hotel President, in the heart of the Eternal City, for the next 4-nights. Time to unpack and freshen-up. This evening we gather for our Welcome to Italia dinner including time to meet and enjoy the company of our new friends. Overnight Rome
Day 3, June 23 Ancient Rome, Christian Forefathers, (B)
This morning our group will meet a local expert for our guided walking exploration of ancient Rome and the path followed by some of our Christian forefathers.
Our journey begins at the Porta del Popolo (Gate) entry to the city used by Martin Luther on his journey to Rome by foot when he was a monk. Our guide will lead us to visit the Church of San Paolo alla Regola known to be the place where the Apostle Paul instructed the first Christians of Rome. Next, we continue walking to the Pantheon, then through the famous Piazza Navona to the Roman Forum, the Arch of Constantine, and finally the Coliseum.
Completing our day at the nearby Martin Luther Square also known as Piazza Martin Luther, the great Reformer (1483-1546). This evening dinner will be on your own. Your tour manager can assistance with options for dining at one of the local restaurants or trattorias near the hotel. Overnight Rome
Day 4, June 24 Vatican, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter (B)
Today our group will visit the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel. Included in this collection we will view one of the highest masterpieces of art- the Genesis and the Last Judgment by Michelangelo. Then, we visit the Basilica of St. Peter and view the famous works of art such as the Pietà by Michelangelo and completing our tour in St Peter’s Square. Afterwards, you will have time at leisure for self-exploration, shopping, perhaps a visit to one of the other galleries or museums, and enjoy dinner on your own. Overnight Rome
Day 5, June 25 St. Paul Outside the Walls Rome, San Paolo Alle Tre Fontane (B)
Today we board our private coach and travel outside of the city walls to visit two of the most significant shrines in Rome which honor the Apostle Paul- the Basilica St. Paul Outside the Walls and the location of the tomb of St. Paul, and to the nearby Abbazia St. Paul Tre Fontane, the site of his death. This evening is at leisure to enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants. Overnight Rome
Day 6, June 26 Assisi and St. Francis, Tuscany (B, D)
Today we say "arrivederci" to Roma as we travel by coach to the holy city of Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; and where St. Francis was born, worked and location of his death. We meet a local historian for our guided walking exploration and learn more about the life and works of this humble man of God. The Basilica- dedicated to his name and life, preserves the remains of the “mendicant of Assisi,” and is a pilgrimage journey for thousands of Christians. The Sanctuary of Assisi is one of the oldest existing Gothic churches in Italy. Its walls are decorated with frescoes by Cimabue, Giotto, Simone Martini and Pietro Lorenzetti. You will have time at leisure to stroll the cobblestone streets of this quaint village, have time to shop for souvenirs and enjoy lunch. Later this afternoon we continue our journey to Tuscany. Tonight, our group will overnight in Tuscan charm and elegance, in the small medieval village of San Quirico, in the heart of the Val d’Orcia; included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. We will check in to our hotel Palazzo del Capitano Val D’ Orcia for the next 2-nights. This evenign our group meets for a traditional Tuscan dinner highlighting regional cuisine. Overnight Tuscany
Day 7, June 27 Tuscan Village Winery and Tastings (B, D)
Today we drive to one of the most picturesque villages in the beautiful sun-kissed hills of Tuscany. We will visit a local winery and olive oil farm to learn about the centuries-old wine and olive-oil making techniques. Afterwards we enjoy wine tastingsand olive-oil tasting accompanied with a variety of regional cuisine for dinner. Overnight Tuscany
Day 8, June 28 Renaissance Florence, Galleria dell’ Accademia (B)
This morning we continue our journey to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance and a city rich in Italian artistic and intellectual genius. Upon arrival our group will be met by a local expert for our guided walking exploration of Florence and discover such Renaissance treasures as- the Pitti Palace, Medici Chapel, the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Ghiberti’s bronze-doors of the Baptistry known for their compelling portrayal of scenes from the Old Testament. Afterwards, you will have a choice to enjoy the remainder of the day for self-exploration or you may choose to continue on with our local guide for a private tour of the Galleria dell’ Accademia. Our guide will lead us to view many of the magnificent works of art including – “Tree of Life” by Buonaguida, depicting the Genesis of Creation and Fall and the “David” by Michelangelo. Afterwards, we will check-in to the Grand Hotel Mediterraneo. This evening is at your leisure to enjoy dinner at one of the sidewalk trattorias, peruse the shops along the Ponte Vecchio- especially known for its beautiful jewels and hand-made leather goods. Overnight Florence
Day 9, June 29 Venice (B, D)
This morning after breakfast we continue our journey to Venice the city of romance and canals! Upon arrival we will have time for lunch before meeting a local expert who will lead our leisurely walk through the historic landmarks of Venice-beginning in St. Mark’s Square. We will view the soaring Bell Tower and the incredible Basilica of St. Mark's - one of the world’s most magnificent churches. Next. we cross over the infamous "Bridge of Sighs" to the Doges Palace where powerful dukes ruled their empire during the 15th century. Afterwards we check-in to the romantic Hotel Bonvecchiati charming guests since 1790. This evening we will meet for dinner. Overnight Venice Island
Day 10, June 30 Venice (B)
Today is at leisure to enjoy the city on your own. Perhaps to revisit one of the sites or monuments from our walking tour, relax with an enchanting boat ride along the famous Venetian canals, or shopping for some of the popular Venetian crafts, hand-made jewelry, leather, lace, and world-famous authentic Murano Glass products including sculptures, vases, bowls and more! Your Tour Manager will be available to provide options for your dining pleasure this evening at one of the local restaurants. Overnight Venice
Day 11, July 01 Arrivederci Italia, Herzlich Willkommen in Deutschland! (B, D)
Today we say arrivederci to Italia as we make our way north through the Veneto plains and the splendid scenery of the Italian countryside to the breathtaking beauty of the Bavarian Alps of Germany. Along the way we stop at a quaint-essential Italian village for lunch on our own and time to stroll this lovely village. Later this evening we arrive in the heart of the awe-inspiring Bavarian Alps of Germany. We will check-in to our enchanting hotel for the next 2-nights, Hirsch Hotel Fussen. Our group will meet for dinner. Overnight Bavarian Alps
Day 12, July 02 Neuschwanstein Castle, UNESCO Wies Church and Andechs Klosterbrauerei Pilgrimage Sites (B)
We awake in the pristine and picturesque Bavarian alps. After breakfast, we board our private coach for an awe-inspiring drive through the spectacular Bavarian Alps to visit the fairytale Castle of Neuschwanstein, one of the most popular castles in Europe, the private refuge of “mad” King Ludwig II of Bavaria and the inspiration behind Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. We’ll tour this magnificent palace and learn more about the mysteries and legends of 19th century royalty. Next, we stop at the pilgrimage Church of Wies, extraordinarily well-preserved in the beautiful setting of an alpine-valley, a perfect masterpiece of Rococo art that have earned its UNESCO World Heritage status. Afterwards, we visit Andechs Klostrbrauerei a popular pilgrimage site offering amazing views from Holy Mountain overlooking the shimmering blue waters of Lake Ammersee and the 17th-century Gothic church with onion-domed tower. Enjoy dinner on our own in the beer garden before returning to our hotel for the evening. Overnight Bavarian Alps
Day 13, July 03 42nd Passion Play Performance, Oberammergau (B, D)
And now for the pièce de résistance, the Passion Play performance. Today we drive to the nearby quaint alpine village of Oberammergau with its famous painted houses, wood carving studios and home to the theater that hosts the world-famous Passion Play, performed once every 10-years. A guided walk of the city will allow you to mingle with the local villagers and learn more about the hard work and dedication of the local volunteers who bring the Passion Play alive for our enjoyment and a lifetime of memories. This afternoon we make our way to the Passion Play Theatre to attend the 42nd Oberammergau Passion Play. The play is 5-hours and performed in two acts, from 2:30pm – 5:30pm, with an intermission including dinner and continues from 8:00pm-10:00pm. Prepare to be amazed as the stage comes alive with a spectacular set, awe-inspiring performances, live animals and birds under the majestic sky of the breathtaking Bavarian Alps! Overnight Bavarian Alps
Day 14, July 04 Munich (B, D)
Today we drive to nearby Munich, the fun-filled capital of Bavaria! While enjoying the sights of the city from the comfort of our private coach, our tour manager will narrate and present some of the most famous landmarks and sites including views of the King’s Square with its 3 temple buildings in the classical Greek style, Hall of Generals, Angel of Peace Monument, Maximilianeum State Parliament, Royal Palace, Karl Square and a gorgeous view of the majestic Palace of Nymphenburg. We’ll stop to stretch our legs in the city center and stroll the world-famous Marienplatz for a upclose view of the Rathaus with its animated Glockenspiel. Our group will dine at one of the local beer-gardens including a traditional German dinner. Overnight Munich or nearby
Day 15, July 05 Tour Ends (B)
This morning our group will transfer from the hotel to Munich Airport for our departure flights.
Itinerary and accommodations subject to change.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
All travelers must travel with a valid passport, valid for at least 6-months beyond the return travel date. Non US passport holders contact LT for credentials required to travel to the countries included in this tour.
Additional credentials required to travel due to unforeseen events or Corona Virus may be required. You will be advised of additional credentials as they apply to this tour.
TOUR LEVEL - MODERATE ACTIVE TRAVELER, WALKING SIGHTSEEING TOUR
Most sightseeing tours are walking tours (approx. 3-4 miles per day) and the historic sites you will visit date back hundreds of years and may not provide such amenities as elevators and ramps for the physically challenged. If you or you will be traveling with someone who has special needs (use a wheelchair, walker), hearing or visually impaired please contact LutherTours.
TOUR INCLUDES
Relaxed Pace, Time for Reflection and Spiritual inspiration
Pr. Tim will accompany the group sharing stories and on-site discussions, leading daily devotions and studying His word
Group Airport Transfers upon arrival in Italy and departure in Germany
Private Air-conditioned Motor Coach throughout the journey will transport you in comfort
Professional English-speaking Tour Manager throughout the journey
Professional Local Guides with Expertise in Biblical, Archeological and Cultural History
13-Nights First-Class 4* star Accommodations with Private Bathroom, highlighting
♥ 2 Unforgettable nights in the most elegant 15th century Italian Palace in a small medieval village
♥ 2 Magical nights on the romantic island of Venice located in the city center near St. Mark’s Square
♥ 3 Enchanting nights in the splendor and beauty of the Bavarian Alps along the famous Romantic Road in Germany
Hotel Taxes and Fees
Breakfast- Daily
7- Dinners highlighting
♥ Tuscan Winery including Wine & Olive Oil Tastings with Regional Tuscany Cuisine
♥ German Beer-Garden including a traditional German Dinner
Gratuities for Included Meals
Life Enriching Activities- Spiritual, Cultural and Educational Experiences Daily
♥ Private Guided Tour of the Galleria dell’ Accademia Museum Florence
♥ Private Guided Tour Neuschwanstein Castle Bavarian Alps
♥ Private Guided Tour Vatican, Sistine Chapel and Basilica of St. Peter Rome
♥ 2022 Passion Play Premium Reserved Seat
All Sightseeing, Admissions and Private Guided tours as indicated in the itinerary
Baggage Handling, 1-piece each to/from coach and hotels
TOUR PRICE is per person based on double occupancy
$5,290 with 36+ travelers
$5,490 with 26+ travelers
$1,190 Additional for Single Occupancy
Final tour price based on number of travelers and subject to currency fluctuation.
GROUP AIRFARE from Denver, CO is addition to the Tour Price
Group flight arrangements require a minimum of 10 travelers on same flights and will be advised in August.
Individual flight arrangements are available, contact LutherTours for details.
PAYMENTS
Deposit Due $350 per person and a completed online Registration Form. Deposit is non-refundable.
Second Payment $650 due within 5 days of first deposit
Balance due 120 days prior to departure
TERMS and CONDITIONS
Global COVID-19 conditions are dynamic.
Those (including but not limited to U.S. citizens) who choose to travel internationally may encounter mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations and testing requirements, quarantines, travel restrictions, and closed borders. Foreign governments in any country may implement restrictions with little notice. Any cost related to required travel regulations is the responsibility of the traveler.
U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories and Alert Update
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html
For the most recent travel alerts and to enroll in S.T.E.P Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive travel alerts and register to ensure you can be located in an emergency.
Please review the complete BOOKING AGREEMENT TERMS and CONDITIONS of TRAVEL. Up to 100% of payments are nonrefundable.
Visit LutherTours.com or call 1.844.777.1517 to request a copy. Tour prices subject to currency fluctuation. Itinerary and accommodations subject to change. Airfare and flight schedule is subject to change by airline.
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. Additional credentials required to travel due to unforeseen events or Corona Virus may be required. You will be advised of additional credentials as they apply to this tour.
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.
NOT INCLUDED
Meals/beverages not listed, Passport and Visa fee, Gratuities for tour manager, tour guides, coach driver, hotel housekeepers, personal items such as internet Wi-Fi charges and phone calls. Any items not specifically shown in the above Tour Includes list.
Cancellation, Interruption and Medical Insurance. There are many companies offering travel insurance. Consider purchasing a Travel Guard policy. Learn more about the benefits, features, and limitations of purchasing a Travel Guard Insurance plan
