4 Amazing Tasmania Experiences in Hobart

Founded in 1804 as a penal colony, Hobart is steeped in a rich and colorful history and is a fantastic destination for a variety of tours, attractions and activities.

A rich colonial heritage and natural charms make the capital city of Tasmania a very interesting place to visit not to mention the world heritage wilderness areas, diverse landscapes and amazing wildlife found along the wild Tasmania coast. Hobart boasts a thriving arts and entertainment scene, along with a thriving culinary scene.

Here are just a few of the amazing experiences to be had in Hobart, Tasmania:

 
Meet the Maker TourTour Lark Distillery, Wicked Cheese and Barilla Bay Oysters. Learn the production process and sample the delicious products.




 

Tahune AirWalkTravel to the picturesque Huon Valley and get closer to nature during a guided walk amoung the tree tops.

Museum of Old and New ArtCruise the Derwent River and visit the provacative Museum of Old and New Art.

Historic Walking TourThe classic must-do tour, provides a great introduction to Hobart's history & orientation of the city today.


These are just a few of the choices when you travel to Tasmania on one of our Premier Escorted Vacations. Choose Celtic Tours World Vacations for your next vacation to Tasmania

Did Saint Brendan Discover America First?

The Navigator, the Voyager, the Bold; Saint Brendan is known as one of the Twelve Apostles of Ireland. Much of his life is shrouded in intrique and mystery.

Saint Brendan the Navigator was born in what is now County Kerry, Ireland more than 1500 years ago in 486 AD. He is known as a traveler and a founder of churches and monasteries. His most famous was Clonfert Cathedral in County Galway. The original monastery was founded here by Saint Brendan 563 AD and it is here that the great navigating saint is buried. Little else in known of the famous Irish Saint, save for what has been recorded in Irish annals, genealogies and a strange tale called "the Voyage of St Brendan the Navigator," written down in the ninth century and rewritten with various changes in several later manuscripts.

According to the medieval legend, St. Brendan and his band of monks embarked on a small boat upon a long Atlantic voyage in search of the Promised Land, the "Isle of the Blessed," a garden of Eden. A spirited 7 year journey ensues, complete with stormy seas, mythical creatures, many strange and wondrous sights. Eventually they landed on the fabled Isle of the Blessed, seven years west of Ireland. Though it is hard to tell which island this hero's journey landed in, many modern historians and scholars believe it is America.

Saint Brendan the Navigator is one of the most famous of Irish saints, but whether he discovered America has remained one of the continuing Irish mysteries. Journey to the birthplace of Saint Brendan, walk in the footsteps of saints and scholars, visit Ireland with Celtic Tours World Vacations.

St. Patrick's Day Parade - be part of it. Really.

It is well known that Dublin is the place to be on St. Patrick's day. The 4 Day St. Patrick's Festival sets out to reflect the talents and achievements of Irish people on many national and world stages, and it acts as an exciting showcase for the manifold skills of the people of Ireland, of every age and social background.

As the one national holiday that is celebrated in more countries around the world than any other, St. Patrick’s Day is the day when everyone wants to be Irish. Whether Irish born or Irish in spirit, be part of this fabulous day----really be part of it.

For the first time ever, in celebration of the Gathering, Ireland 2013, St. Patrick’s Festival are inviting up to 8,000 people around the world to march in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin on 17 March 2013 - The People’s Parade is a once in a lifetime opportunity and applications are now open!

As a participant in The People’s Parade you will march in procession through the streets of Dublin, passing many historic landmarks along the way including the GPO, Trinity College, Dublin Castle and City Hall.  You will soak up the vibrant atmosphere; feel the energy, wave to the audience along the 2.5 km route and best of all once you have finished you can marvel at the spectacular performance section of the parade that follows.

Build lifelong memories, display your Irish pride, celebrate all that is good about Ireland and being Irish (even if you are just an honorary Irish person for one day!) and savour your unique journey through the heart of Dublin City- the journey of a lifetime!

This year - be part of St. Patrick's Day. Travel to Ireland and march in the St. Patrick's Day Parade. Let Celtic Tours World Vacations help you plan the vacation of a lifetime!

Celtic Tours World Vacations is pleased to announce vacation packages for individuals and groups wishing to take part in the festivities. Give us a call to start planning today! 1-800-833-4373

Your Gathering Idea

There are so many ways you can showcase your community, business, club or association. No idea is too big, too small or too quirky. Decide early on what exactly you want your event to achieve. Maybe you want to showcase a particular tradition associated with your community or celebrate a unique impact it has made on the world. Your gathering could have a community development theme so that visitors can make a positive contribution to their place of origin. Or maybe 2013 could simply be the perfect opportunity for a family reunion. If you’re not sure what direction you want to take, you can find inspiration on www.thegatheringireland.com.

Remember that your event doesn’t have to be an entirely new one. You can also add to an existing local event. Organisations such as the Irish Farmers’ Association, the GAA, Scouting Ireland, The Irish Countrywomen’s Association and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann are mobilising members all over Ireland. Find out what’s planned in your area and consider ways to work together.

Whether you’re planning a school or family reunion, genealogy event or business gathering, remember the overall objective: encouraging visitors to spend time in Ireland in 2013.

Let Celtic Tours World Vacations help plan your Gathering in Ireland, 2013.

Fundraising Through Group Travel

People love to travel and on average take a vacation twice a year. We have found that a travel fundraising program provides a Win-Win proposition for everyone involved.

At Celtic Tours, we realize that you have limited staff resources and budgets – you depend on fundraisers to defray your expenses so you can continue to deliver the vital services you provide. Celtic Tours can help you achieve your fundraising goals through Group Travel.

We will work with you to select or tailor design a tour that will fit the demographics of your organization- the destinations and details have endless possibilities. Our feature destinations include, but are not limited to: Ireland, Britain, Italy, Germany and the South Pacific. We send tours to every corner of the globe!

We will help promote your group trip by providing you with marketing materials such as flyers, posters and a dedicated website landing page. Where possible, we will have one of our Regional Sales Managers host an evening presentation to promote the fundraising trip.

The concept couldn’t be simpler or the potential revenue more staggering!  Visit our website to get some travel ideas. And give us a call 1-800-833-4373 to start planning your fundraising travel experience today – don’t forget to ask how you can travel for free!

New Zealand Deal

100% Adventure.
Celtic Tours World Vacations Save up to $1500 pp on Escorted New Zealand packages.

17 Day New Zealand Wonderland: Premier Escorted Vacation
Discover New Zealand on this comprehensive and popular 17 Day tour. Travel to the subtropical Bay of Islands, visit the geothermal Rotorua. See natural wonders of Franz Josef Glacier, Milford Sound and World Heritage-listed Mt Cook National Park.

B&B Package (includes 3 feature meals): Land from $5475* pps after discount

All Meals Itinerary: Land from $5995* pps after discount

Available for the following Tour Departure Dates: 2012: 10/27, 11/24, 11/28, 12/8 2013: 1/12, 1/23, 2/9, 3/16

14 Day New Zealand Highlighter: Premier Escorted Vacation
Beginning in the North Island, this 14 Day tour winds its way south, taking in New Zealand’s premier attractions along the way. See the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, cruise Cook Strait and Milford Sound and absorb the majesty of Franz Josef Glacier.

B&B Package (includes 2 feature meals): Land from $4395* pps after discount

 All Meals Itinerary: Land from $4795* pps after discount

Available for the following Tour Departure Dates: 2012: 10/16, 10/30, 11/27 2013: 1/15, 1/26, 2/12, 3/19

Check out this deal on New Zealand travel

Call your travel agent to book! Or give us a call at 1-800-833-4373

*These specials are for new bookings only. Conditions apply. Discount shown is based on twin share for travel on applicable dates shown above and only for tours mentioned. Bookings must be made by September 14, 2012 only. All offers are subject to availability at time of booking. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. SuperDeals cannot be combined with any other offer. Price shown reflects discount.

Experience the World With Your Favorite Group of People!

Group Travel is an exciting and rewarding way for like-minded people to experience the world together. With so many different types of groups and so many destinations to choose from, the possibilities are endless for Group Travel. A group could be your friends and family, your local church or school group or an organization you belong to - to name a few. Destinations can range anywhere from Australia and New Zealand to Europe and Ireland - and anywhere in between. Activities and sightseeing can be arranged based on where your group is traveling to and what type of group is traveling.

Here are a couple of our favorite Group Tours:

Celtic Dream - Travel to Ireland with your favorite group of people. Our Celtic Dream vacation to Ireland continues to bring you the best of Ireland, with an updated itinerary for 2012! This tour travels around the entire island of Ireland, in 12 or 13 days, featuring most of the major historic and scenic attractions of Ireland. The Celtic Dream is acknowledged by visitors and Travel Agents as being the best value tour offered to Ireland.

Irish Harmony- Your group can experience the best of Ireland on this extra value tour. Your Irish Harmony tour of Ireland combines all the comforts of a more expensive tour at fantastic savings. Sightseeing includes Killarney, the crystal city of Waterford, Cork, Blarney and Dublin. Enjoy the traditional music of Ireland at renowned Irish pubs and visit the famed Guinness Storehouse.

Tuscan Experience - Tuscany will enchant your group because it holds a special link between traditions of the past and present. Villa Casagrande, a wine-producing villa constructed in 1392, will serve as your group's host for six nights. Located in Figline Valdarno, a medieval village, in the middle of the triangle made up of Siena, Arezzo and Florence. Enjoy the local delicacies and the Tuscan lifestyle. Your group will find your selves strolling down quiet lanes bound by stone walls, cypress trees and cream-colored villas. A true Tuscan Experience!

Bavarian Spirit - A unique group experience with the opportunity to visit the Home of the Pope. This group itinerary can be customized to suit your groups travel needs.

Experience Spain - This group travel itinerary brings your group a leisurely itinerary, and a Fabulous European experience at a great pace. Visit Madrid and Barcelona on this group trip.

Tulips and Chocolate - A unique travel experience for your group to visit Amsterdam and Brussels. Your group will enjoy the flowers, gardens and chocolates of these European cities.

Experience France - Explore Paris and Nice on this leisurely group vacation to France.

Experience Portugal - Your group will love this small group itinerary taking in two of Portugal's most famous cities - Lisbon and Porto.

French Wine Country - This fantastic group travel itinerary is great for the wine enthusiasts. Your group will enjoy the wine regions of France and tasted some of the best wines in the world on this once in a lifetime group travel experience.

Customized Group Tours - As always, Celtic Tours World Vacations can customize the perfect itinerary for your group travel. Whether you are looking for a family trip to Ireland, a River Cruise through Europe's waterways, a fantastic trip to Australia and New Zealand or a cultural discovery in any of Europe's fascinating cities, give us a call 1-800-833-4373 to speak to our highly experienced group travel planners.

Foot-tapping, merry making good time - Top 10 2012 Festivals in Ireland

From opera to oysters – festivals in Ireland cover a multitude of activities, from literary pursuits at the Dublin Book Festival to the gems of the silver screen at the Jameson Dublin International Film Festival. Let 2012 be the year you find your perfect festival. Join in the festivities on your self-drive vacation to Ireland with Celtic Tours World Vacations or bring your friends and family on a group vacation to Ireland for a foot-tapping, merry-making good time!


Titanic, Cobh, April
2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the Titanic’s maiden voyage. Cobh, then Queenstown, was the Titanic’s last port of call. 123 passengers boarded the magnificent vessel in a bid to journey to the new world. For the last century the world has been intrigued with the story of the largest passenger liner at the time and the vessel that many thought was unsinkable.

Waterford Festival and Food – April
This annual festival has become synonymous with fabulous food, fantastic family fun, magical music and much more


Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, Co Clare, September – October
Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival is Europe's largest singles event, with a whole month of dancing and craic starting at 12 noon til late into the night. The festival is Europe's largest singles event. There are five big weekends of dancing and craic. The dancing also starts at the town hall at 12 noon every day during the month of September and continues all over town til late. You can see Willie Daly one of Ireland’s oldest matchmakers at the matchmaker bar every weekend. If its craic and dancing you want Lisdoonaarna is not to be missed.

Wexford Festival Opera, October 24 – November 4, 2012
Recognised by the Frommers Guide as 'one of the best small festivals in the world' Wexford Festival Opera presents an annual trio of rarely performed operas in the unique atmosphere of Wexford Town.

Beamish Cork Folk Festival, October 04 -04, 2012
The Cork Folk Festival has been taking place annually since 1979 at 45 locations throughout the City of Cork. Throughout the five day festival, many of the events are free and audiences can sample everything from set to sean nós dancing, bluegrass to cajun music and singers' club to singer songwriters. The highlight of the festival takes place on Grand Parade, where up to 10,000 dancers gather to take part in Ireland’s largest open air céilí.

Galway Arts Festival, July 16 -29, 2012
Regarded as one of Europe's key cultural events, Galway Arts Festival is an international celebration of the performing and visual arts. Each year over 100,000 people attend the Galway Arts Festival, with hundreds of writers, artists, performers and musicians creating theatre, spectacle, street art, music, comedy, literature and music to produce a stunning fortnight of cultural activity and celebration. Galway Arts Festival is the defining cultural expression of Galway and is at the heart of all aspects life in the city.

Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival, September 28 – 30, 2012
Each September, Galway City comes alive with seafood & oysters as it celebrates the Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival, the most internationally recognised food festival in Ireland and the world's longest running International Oyster Festival. Throughout the festival, a host of tantalising events to whet your appetite will take place, including; a seafood trail in some of Galway city’s finest restaurants, Taste of the Sea/Blas na Mara - showcasing Galway's seafood heroes, the National Oyster Opening Championship, The Food village at The Festival Marquee, the World Oyster Opening Championship, a Mardi Gras event through the streets of Galway and the Festival Finale with family activities, kids fancy dress, live music, cooking demonstrations, Best Hot Oyster Dish challenge, Irish Coffee making and jive & jazz.

Waterford Spraoi Festival, August 2 -5, 2012

Spraoi, pronounced spree, is the Irish word for fun, exuberance and celebration. The Spraoi International Street Arts Festival has been staged in Waterford, Ireland, since 1993. For three days each year residents of this medieval city take to the streets and enjoy an international programme of street arts and spectacle. The festival is staged on August Bank Holiday Weekend, always marked by the first Monday in August. Waterford’s narrow medieval streets, squares, quays and historic buildings provide an atmospheric backdrop to Spraoi’s celebration of contemporary performance culture. The majority of the events are free and suitable for all ages. Performers and musicians from around the world feature in the Spraoi programme each year. The festival programme features the Irish Premeiers of International work. Spraoi also produces its own work for the festival, including The Spraoi Parade.

Dublin Book Festival, November 16 – 18, 2012

Dublin Book Festival brings together the best of Irish publishing, offering a chance for the voices of both established and up and coming authors to be heard. Our poets and authors will gather to celebrate Dublin’s designation as a UNESCO City of Literature. The Dublin Book Festival promises a great line-up within a relaxed and fun environment with something for everyone.

Jameson Dublin International Film Festival, Feb
Jameson Dublin International Film Festival continues its commitment to celebrating film as an art form by presenting over 120 films from the four corners of the globe to the Irish Audience. The festival is a citywide event that takes place in all of the Dublin City Centre Cinemas including Cineworld, The Savoy, Screen, Irish Film Institute and Light House Cinema in Smithfield. The majority of films shown at the film festival are Irish premieres, and for some of the films shown, the festival represents the only public screening that will take place in Ireland.

2012 is here! Let this be the year you find your perfect festival. See that amazing performance, run up that mountain, learn something new or round up your pals for a city break with a difference - go on - catch some festival fever! Check out the Festival & Event Calendar provided by Discover Ireland: http://bit.ly/wuKi2p then start planning your festival self-drive vacation to Ireland with Celtic Tours World Vacations today!

Powerscourt Gardens

One of the world's greatest gardens, Powerscourt is situated 12 miles south of Dublin in the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains. The garden was begun by Richard Wingfield in the 1740s and stretches out over 40 acres. It is a sublime blend of formal gardens, sweeping terraces and ornamental lakes together with secret hollows, rambling walks, walled gardens and over 200 varieties of trees and shrubs. When visiting the 18th century Palladian house, Powerscourt, take a moment to breathe in the awesome beauty of its gardens.

Visit Powerscourt and its amazing gardens on your next self-drive tour of Ireland with Celtic Tours World Vacations.

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Discover Medieval Ireland's Historic Legends

Step into Ireland’s lively and colorful Medieval past with a medieval themed vacation filled with castle banquet feasts, traditional music and art, spectacular cathedrals, medieval ruins, fully-restored 12th century houses and old world villages – you can even stay in a Medieval Castle and learn about the ancient art of falconry.

Despite violent incursions by the Vikings and the spread of Christianity, medieval Ireland maintained a distinctive identity due to its relative isolation by water. Much of this magical land with its many medieval treasures, were left intact. Today there are a plethora of medieval sites and experiences to be had, here are a couple of the ones that cannot be missed by those wishing to discover Ireland’s medieval legends.

Powerscourt
Powerscourt is one of the most beautiful country estates in Ireland. Situated in the mountains of Wicklow, it was originally an important strategic site for the Anglo-Normans who came to Ireland in the 12th century. By the year 1300 a castle had been built here and was in the possession of the le Poer (Power) family from which it takes its name. The succeeding centuries saw the castle held for different periods by powerful families such as the O'Tooles and the Fitzgeralds, Earls of Kildare.

Irish National Heritage Park
A visit to the Irish National Heritage Park is like no other you can imagine. Surprises await around every turn as you explore 35 acres of this remarkable heritage trail. From campsite to Ringfort, from mill to Fulacht Fiadh, from Crannog to Viking house, every activity is an unexpected adventure into 9000 years. The world you enter is an authentic recreation of Ireland’s heritage. Homesteads, places of ritual, burial modes and long forgotten remains will enlighten the casual visitor and interest the scholar.

Rock of Cashel
Eclipsed in legend, the Rock of Cashel is reputed to be the site of the conversion of the King of Munster by St. Patrick in the 5th century. According to local mythology, the Rock of Cashel originated in the Devil's Bit, a mountain 19 miles north of Cashel when St. Patrick banished Satan from a cave, resulting in the Rock's landing in Cashel. The Rock of Cashel was the traditional seat of the kings of Munster for hundreds of years prior to the Norman invasion.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Feast your eyes and spirits on St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, Ireland. Built in honor of Ireland’s patron saint, there has been a church on the site since the 5th century. St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the largest church in Ireland with a 140 foot spire and is one of two Church of Ireland cathedrals.

National Museum of Ireland, Archaeology
The Medieval Ireland exhibition contains three galleries entitled Power, Work and Prayer, reflecting the three-fold division of medieval society - nobles, common people and clergy. The lifestyle of nobles is explored, while surviving arms and armor reflect the distinctive characteristics of warfare in medieval Ireland. The exhibition looks at the different forms of agriculture (pastoral and arable), which were practiced. Finds from urban excavations illustrate Ireland’s import trade and the various crafts and industries operating in towns. The Irish church changed fundamentally in the 12th Century, although many older church traditions survived. The exhibition also looks at religious practice and devotion as well as church furnishings, including a fine selection of late medieval reliquaries: book shrines, bell shrines and crosiers.

Adare, Old World Village
Renowned as Ireland's prettiest village, Adare is a major tourist destination with many tours of Ireland stopping off in Adare. The local heritage centre gives a deep insight into the history of the village and also hosts a number of craft shops and a restaurant. With thatched roof cottages and Tudor style houses, beautiful gardens and ivy clad medieval churches in beautiful surroundings on both sides of the street beside the river Maigue. For those who want to linger and learn more visit the Heritage centre and step back in time.

Trinity College and the Book of Kells
16th Century Trinity College is the home to the greatest surviving product of mid-8th century Irish monks, the illuminated Book of Kells. The illustrations and ornamentation of the Book of Kells surpass that of other Insular Gospel books in extravagance and complexity.

Bunratty Castle Banquet
The most complete and authentically restored and furnished castle in Ireland, a colorful folk park and the famous Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquets. This is one tourist attraction you are not going to want to miss! Each night the Ladies of the Castle, aided and abetted by the Earl of Thomond’s Butler, welcome guests from the four corners of the globe to dine at The Earl’s Banquet at Bunratty Castle. The entertainment provided by the world renowned entertainers is a fitting compliment to a mead reception in the Great Hall of the castle, a four course traditional feast and of course good wine.

Craggaunowen Castle
Craggaunowen Castle, built in 1550, is a fortified tower house located near Sixmilebridge, County Clare, Ireland. It was built by John MacSioda MacNamara, a descendent of Sioda MacNamara, who built Knappogue Castle in 1467. It stands on a crag overlooking the lake in the grounds of Craggaunowen Park, an archaeological open-air museum.

The Ancient Art of Falconry at Ashford Castle
Why not round off your Medieval Vacation with a stay at an authentic 13th century castle? Stay at medieval Ashford Castle, located deep in the heartland of Mayo and set against a spectacular backdrop of forests, lakes and mountains. The stately architecture, surrounded by magnificent gardens makes Ashford Castle, a place where time stands still.

Ireland’s First School of Falconry, at Ashford castle, offers visitors the chance to experience the ancient art of Falconry first hand on a private Hawk Walk. They specialize in lessons using beautiful Harris hawks, but in addition to hawks the school is home to a variety of eagles, owls and falcons. Within minutes of arriving, you will have a hawk on your glove and be setting off to fly your hawk or hawks in the gardens and woodlands surrounding Ashford Castle.

As you travel through the lush green countryside of Ireland, you can imagine the Ireland of centuries gone by: ladies at court, fine feasts, jousting knights and a world where magic was still very much alive. The turbulent history of Ireland with raiders coming from all directions will come alive before your eyes as you learn about historical events, the arts, religion and the multiple facets of life in medieval Ireland. Discover Ireland’s historic legends on a medieval tour of Ireland with Celtic Tours.

With many self-drive vacations to Ireland, let Celtic Tours help plan your medieval vacation to Ireland. Have a group of people that want to experience Medieval Ireland? Try a Celtic Tours group tour of Ireland. We can create a customized Ireland vacation to suit you and your groups needs! Give us a call today 1-800-833-4373 to start planning your group tour today!

Wexford Opera Festival

Situated in the south east corner of Ireland, Co. Wexford has a wonderful mix of mountainous scenery, river valleys and unspoiled sandy beaches. The Hook Lighthouse, Irish National Heritage Park and Dunbrody Famine Ship attract many visitors, along with the world famous Wexford Opera Festival.

The Wexford Festival Opera has been running since 1951, playing a central role in the cultural life of Ireland and in the world of Opera and Arts internationally. From small and humble beginnings it has achieved world-wide success and critical acclaim by demonstrating passion, innovation and a willingness to lead audiences and artists into neglected territories to explore the rich vein of operatic work worldwide.

The 60th season of the Wexford Festival Opera opens on Friday, October 21st and runs until Saturday November 5, 2011. This year’s festival will fun for 16 days. The 3 main stage operas will run in 4 cycles of 12 evening performances in total. Evening dress and black-tie are the recommended dress code for the evening operas.

Situated on the same site as the previous Theatre Royal, the Wexford Opera House plays host to this famous event. The Opera House has been designed to provide a world-class acoustic environment for opera by international acoustician Arup Acoustics. A state-of-the-art auditorium tactfully inserted into a dense, historic urban plan; a “secret gem” tucked away behind a reinstated streetfront. From Wexford Opera House there are views of Mount Leinster and of Tuskar Rock lighthouse. The Opera House offers productions of varying scales and art-forms featuring individuals and performing groups of local, national and international origin.

With Celtic Tours your vacation has endless possibilities. Visit our website for more information on self-drive vacations to Ireland.

13 Day Danube, Main, Rhine and Moselle River Cruise (Brilliant) Vienna to Trier

DAY 1, Monday - Depart the USA
Depart the USA for Vienna. Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment for your journey

DAY 2, Tuesday - Arrive in Vienna
Arrive and transfer independently to your ship. Embarkation begins at 4:00 pm and the ship sails for Rossatz at 5:30 pm. Tonight, enjoy a gala welcome dinner on board
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Dinner

DAY 3, Wednesday - Krems City Tour, Afternoon in Melk
This morning disembark in Rossatz and visit a local winery. Enjoy a tour of the vineyards, explore the cellars, and have an opportunity to taste the wines that have made the Wachau region famous. Next visit Krems, a small city with cozy streets lined with pastel storefronts, beautiful townhouses and boutique shops. Join a walking tour including Steiner Tor, or Stony Gate, a medieval fortification gate built in 1480 and the late-Gothic Piarist church. Continue by coach to meet the ship docked near Melk. The remainder of the day is at leisure
Optional: Beauties of the Wachau (PM)
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4, Thursday - Afternoon in Passau
This morning relax on board as you cruise the scenic Danube River. Arrive to Passau around noon where you will have time to explore the city on your own. Most well known for St. Stephen's Cathedral and its historic Altstatd, or Old City district, the city boasts many fine examples of Baroque and Gothic architecture. Depart for Regensburg in the late afternoon
Optional: Passau City Walk (PM)
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5, Friday - Morning in Regensburg
Arrive in Regensburg this morning and enjoy time at leisure to explore one of the largest cities in Bavaria. Built in 179 BC by the Romans, the remnants of the original Roman architecture are still visible. Other notable sights include the Old Town Hall, St. Peter's Cathedral and one of the oldest stone bridges over the Danube. Set sail for Nuremberg at 1 pm. Guests participating in the optional tour will continue by coach and re-join the guests on the ship at the end of the tour
Optional: Regensburg City Walk (AM)
Optional: Weltenburg Monastery Tour (PM)
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


DAY 6, Saturday - Afternoon in Nuremberg
Enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Nuremberg. Though associated with some of the darkest episodes in German history, contemporary Nuremberg is distinctly cosmopolitan and exciting for people of all ages. Perhaps visit Justice Palace, the venue of the Nuremberg trials, or the main market where you can stroll through the shops on your own. Set sail for Bamberg at 8 pm
Optional: Nuremberg City Tour (PM)
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7, Sunday - Bamberg City Tour
This morning explore the Medieval town of Bamberg, which boasts one of the largest intact old town centers in Europe and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a walking tour including sights such as the 13th-century Romanesque Cathedral, Old Town Hall, the Royal Neue Residence and Bamberg's "Little Venice" area. Sail for Wurzburg at 1 pm
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8, Monday - Full day in Wurzburg
This morning, arrive in Wurzburg, a commercial and agricultural hub, known for its vineyards and textile production. Walk along the Main River and cross the 15th-century stone bridge. Admire the stunning Romanesque cathedral or visit the Marienberg Fortress, which houses an extensive collection of Riemenschneider's works. This evening enjoy dinner on board
Optional: Wurzburg City Walk (AM)
Optional: Rothenburg City Tour (PM)
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9, Tuesday - Daylight Sailing
Today we arrive in Wertheim, renowned for its well-established glass industry and beautiful medieval buildings. Guests participating in the optional tour will disembark in Wertheim for their tour, while the remaining passengers will continue to cruise to Miltenberg. Passengers enjoying the optional tour will continue via coach to Miltenberg where they will tour the city and re-join the guests on the ship at the end of the tour
Optional: Miltenberg & Wertheim City Walk (AM)
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 10, Wednesday - Morning in Rudesheim and Koblenz City Tour
This morning arrive in Rudesheim, a lively wine village located in the heart of the Rhine River area. Walk the narrow cobblestone streets, relax at a local cafe, or take the cable car up to the Niederwald monument to admire the panoramic view of the Rhine River below. Return to the ship for lunch and continue our cruise to Koblenz, the site where the Mosel River flows into the Rhine River. Your guided walk through Koblenz will begin in the old quarter, a section of the city that was severely damaged during World War II and later rebuilt. Sights include Church of Our Lady and the equestrian statue of Emperor Wilhelm I at Duchess Eck
Optional: Rudesheim City Walk (AM)
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 11, Thursday - Morning in Cochem
This morning, arrive in Cochem, a quaint German town known best for its late-Gothic castle and restored timber-framed houses. Walk along the fairytale streets and perhaps sample wine from the surrounding vineyards, many of which have set up shops in town. At noon, sail for Bernkastel
Optional: Cochem City Tour and Wine Tasting (AM)
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 12, Friday - Morning in Bernkastel
This morning arrive in Bernkastel. The narrow cobblestone streets are dwarfed by the towering ruins of Landshut Castle that rises above the small town. Take a stroll to discover the Renaissance style city hall, Graacher Gate, Market Square, and the Pointed House, which dates to 1416. At 11 am sail for Trier. Tonight, enjoy the Captain's Gala Dinner on board
Optional: Bernkastel City Walk (AM)
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 13, Saturday - Depart for the USA
This morning, disembark and transfer independently to the airport for your departure flight. The Luxembourg airport is approximately a 45 minute drive from the port. Disembarkation will end at 9:30 am
Meals: Breakfast

Join Celtic Tours for this wonderful European River Cruise of Austria and Germany!

The Oldest Monastery Brewery in the World!

Most people visit the Weltenburg Abbey for the beer, but the abbey church is not to be missed! The Weltenburg Abbey is the oldest monastery in Bavaria. And the oldest monastery brewery in the world.

Situated on a peninsula in the Danube, on the so-called “Weltenburg Narrows”, the Weltenburg Abbey is a perfect stop on your next Danube River Cruise. The Benedictine monastery was founded by Irish or Scottish monks in about 620. The monastery courtyard is surrounded by Baroque buildings, the highlight of which is the abbey church, dedicated to Saint George. The church was built in 1716 by the Asam Brothers. Its’ amazing Baroque Architecture is complimented by beautiful frescos and marble and gilded gold walls.

The Weltenburg Abbey brewery has been in operation since 1050, and is considered the oldest monastery brewery in the world. The Abbey brewery specializes in dunkels, a dark German beer that typical ranges in color from amber to dark reddish brown. Dunkels are characterized by their smooth malty flavor.

Why not stop into the Weltenburg Abbey in Bavaria on your next Danube River Cruise for a dunkel beer or two? Visit Celtic Tours website for a complete listing of all of our European River Cruises.

Cruise the Danube with Celtic Tours

Step aboard this amazing itinerary on Celtic Tours 9 Day Danube River Cruise: From Budapest to Nuremberg:

DAY 1, Saturday - Depart the USA Depart the USA for Hungary. Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment for your journey

DAY 2, Sunday - Arrive in Budapest Arrive and transfer independently to the port. Embarkation begins at 4 pm. Tonight, enjoy a gala welcome dinner on board and a scenic cruise of Budapest
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Dinner

DAY 3, Monday - Budapest City Tour Your morning tour of Budapest begins in Pest and views such sights as Parliament, Royal Palace and Heroes' Square. Cross over to Buda to view the graceful medieval architecture that lines the traditional cobbled streets. Explore the city independently this afternoon, before setting sail for Bratislava at 4 pm
Optional: Excursion to Szentendre (PM)
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4, Tuesday - Full day in Bratislava This morning arrive to Bratislava and enjoy a full day at leisure in the capital of Slovakia. Bratislava is one of the youngest capital cities of Europe yet has a history dating back more than 2000 years. This evening arrive to Vienna where the ship will remain docked overnight
Optional: Vienna by Night Tour (PM)
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5, Wednesday - Vienna City Tour Your morning tour of Vienna begins with a drive along the famed Ringstrasse, Vienna's main boulevard. View the hub of the Hapsburg Empire, and walk the courtyards to view sites such as the Vienna State Opera House, Parliament and St. Stephen's Cathedral. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure
Optional: Schonbrunn Castle Tour (PM) *
Optional: Hofburg Imperial Palace Tour (PM) *
Optional: Sound of Vienna Concert (PM)
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


DAY 6, Thursday - Daylight Sailing This morning cruise the scenic Wachau Valley renowned for its production of grapes and apricots, which generate some of Austria's finest specialty wines. This afternoon enjoy time at leisure while docked near Melk
Optional: Beauties of the Wachau (PM)
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7, Friday - Afternoon in Passau This morning the ship will remain at port in Linz between 7 and 9:30 am. Continue sailing this morning and arrive to Passau in the late afternoon. Most well known for St. Stephen's Cathedral and its historic Altstatd, or Old City district, the city boasts many fine examples of Baroque and Gothic architecture. Depart for Regensburg just before dinner
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8, Saturday - Morning in Regensburg Enjoy a walking tour of Regensburg, built in 179 BC by the Romans, today it stands as one of the largest and most well preserved cities in Bavaria. The tour includes such sights as the Old Town Hall, the Dom St. Peter, the Roman Gates at Porta Pretoria, and one of the oldest stone bridges over the Danube. Set sail for Nuremberg just before lunch
Optional: Weltenburg Monastery Tour (PM)
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9, Sunday - Depart for the USA This morning, arrive in Nuremberg and transfer independently to the airport in Munich for your departure flight. The Munich airport is approximately a 2 hour drive from the port. Disembarkation will end at 9:30 am
Meals: Breakfast

Cruise the Danube with Celtic Tours European River Cruises.

Explore Scenic Scotland

This new and unique program brings you some of the most scenic places in Scotland. Your accommodations are pre-booked for you. A Scenic Tour Road book, with a full itinerary and additional Scotland sightseeing information, is provided with your documents.

Your Scenic Scotland Tour Includes:

* 7 Nights Accommodations
* Breakfast daily, except day of arrival
* Car Rental: Group C Standard Shift Car*
* Caledonian MacBrayne ferry from Armadale to Mallaig
* Carbon offsetting contribution donated to the National Trust for Scotland

Join Celtic Tours for this amazing self drive tour of Scenic Scotland

Shopping in Lisbon

Baixa, the city center of Lisbon, Portugal, with elegant squares, pedestrianized streets, cafes, and shops. Old tramcars, street performers, tiled Art Deco shopfronts, elaborately decorated pastry shops, and street vendors selling everything from flowers to souvenirs, all lend a special charm to the area. Watch it all from a table outside Nicola Café in Rossio Square facing the monumental National Theater and Saint George's Castle, and as you stroll down the pedestrian Rua Augusta, past the triumphal arch, into the majestic Comercio Square. Look down at the cobbled mosaic pavements as you walk down Avenida da Liberdade, past Restauradores, Rossio, and Rua Augusta. It is hardly a secret but the nondescript façade of "Casa do Alentejo" in Rua das Portas de Santo Antão may prevent you from finding its beautiful Moorish interior.

Baixa literally means “low” as it is situated in the gulf between the two main hills of the city. Owing its neat rows of stately neoclassical buildings to the devastating earthquake of 1755, it is said that it is almost impossible to get lost in downtown Lisbon.

Baixa is the central shopping and business district of Lisbon. Portuguese handcrafts often exhibit exotic influences, in part because of Portugal’s vast history as a seafaring nation. The Baixa shopping district lies between the Rossio and the river Tagus. The three main shopping streets are the Rua Aurea, or Street of Gold, the Rua da Prata, Street of Silver and the Rua Augusta.

Don’t forget to check out the famous Feira da Ladra, or “Theives Market” where you can experience haggling for bargains. Today, the traders here are perfectly legal, and they show their wares every Tuesday and Saturday. This open-air market is about a 5 minute walk from the waterfront, close to the Alfama district. Start browsing at Campo de Santa Clara, portable stalls and individual displays climb the hilly street. Nearly everything you can imagine is for sale here, but come early for the finest pickings.

From pottery and ceramics to fashion, art and handcrafts, Lisbon’s business and shopping district is not to be missed. Plan your Lisbon shopping day with your favorite group of people on Celtic Tours Experience Portugal Group Tour.

Experience Portugal

Our new Portugal Experience tour is designed for small groups of 10 or more. Great for Family and Friends.

Enjoy this great itinerary with your favorite group of people:

Day 01: U.S. to Lisbon: Depart on overnight flight to Portugal.

Day 02: Lisbon: Arrive Portugal with local transportation and English speaking assistant waiting. Airport to hotel transfer with your afternoon free at leisure. Overnight Lisbon.

Day 03: Lisbon. Enjoy a hot buffet breakfast. Today we experience a half-day sightseeing tour, which includes; entrance to Jeronimos Monastry (Belem) including views of the Tomb of Vasco Da Gama and the Cloisters and a visit to Baixa. With our afternoon at leisure to enjoy Lisbon.

Optional Excursion $99: Opt for a full-day excursion to Fatima. Enjoy Fatima, with a 3-hour guide. Visit Basilica of Our Lady and Chapel of Apparitions. With Lunch on own.

Day 04: Lisbon - Porto. After breakfast, local one-way transfer from Lisbon to Porto.Porto, Portugal Afternoon free in Porto to enjoy the city at leisure.

Day 05: Porto. After breakfast, we experience a half-day sightseeing tour which includes entrance to SE Cathedral, Palacio De Bolsa (with guide) and Mercado Do Bolhao. Afternoon at leisure in beautiful Porto.

Day 06: Porto. After breakfast, enjoy Porto at your leisure today.

Day 07: Porto - Lisbon. After a hot hotel buffet breakfast, local one-way transfer from Porto to Lisbon. Afternoon free in Lisbon to enjoy the city at leisure.

Day 08: Lisbon - U.S. After breakfast, transfer from Lisbon hotel to airport for return flight home.

For more information on Celtic Tours Experience Portugal Group Package, please visit our website.