Conducting Opera Tours For The Past 41 Years

 

LATVIA, ESTONIA & LITHUANIA – 2024 bdr

Riga, Tallinn and Vilnius

Discover the Baltic's hidden gems with an opera odyssey to Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius!

Tallinn, Estonia: Your adventure begins in Tallinn, where you will stay at The RADISSON COLLECTION HOTEL. The melodious strains of Puccini's poignant masterpiece, "MADAMA BUTTERFLY," grace the stage of the Estonian National Opera. As the curtains rise, you'll be transported into a world of passion and heartbreak, with Puccini's evocative score weaving a tapestry of emotions. The Estonian National Opera provides a stunning backdrop for this captivating performance, taking you on a journey through the opera world.

Riga, Latvia: Next, you'll arrive in Riga, where the stylish HOTEL KEMPINSKI becomes your luxurious haven, conveniently located near the Latvian National Opera. Here, Verdi's timeless classic "LA TRAVIATA" takes center stage, enveloping you in the emotional depth of its melodies. The opera house, steeped in history and elegance, amplifies the impact of this enduring tale of love and sacrifice, promising an unforgettable evening. You will also experience Puccini's "TURANDOT" at the Latvian National Opera. The resplendent chandeliers, ornate balconies, and rich cultural heritage of the venue elevate this masterpiece to new heights. With each note, you'll delve deeper into the world of opera, forging a profound connection with the art form.

Vilnius, Lithuania: Your final destination is Vilnius, Lithuania, where the exquisite GRAND HOTEL KEMPINSKI welcomes you. With its rich history and cultural treasures, this enchanting city serves as the backdrop for a captivating conclusion to your operatic journey. The awe-inspiring architecture of Vilnius, combined with the hotel's opulence, creates the perfect atmosphere to savor the magic of the operatic arts.

As you traverse these Baltic cities, your journey extends beyond the stage, allowing you to immerse yourself in the unique cultural tapestry of each location. The historic charm of Tallinn, the elegant sophistication of Riga, and the cultural richness of Vilnius offer a symphony of experiences that will resonate in your heart long after the final curtain falls, making this a truly unforgettable operatic odyssey.

Opera Performances

In Tallinn:
May 29 – MADAMA BUTTERFLY by Verdi 

In Riga:  
May 30 – LA TRAVIATA by Verdi 
June 1 – TURANDOT by Puccini

In Vilnius:
TBA
Itinerary
  • Sunday, May 26. (D)*. DEPART FOR TALLINN
    Depart this evening, aboard any airline of your choice from USA to Tallinn, Estonia. Dinner and light breakfast served on the plane.

  • Monday, May 27. (B.D). TALLINN
    Upon arriving at the Tallinn airport, take a taxi to the deluxe, RADISSON COLLECTION HOTEL where we stay three nights. Briefing, cocktails, and Gala Welcome dinner at the hotel. 
  • Tuesday, May 28. (B). TALLINN
    Morning sightseeing to stop by Toompea, and see the Parliament Building, enjoy fantastic views from Harju Hill, wander through Freedom Square and Town Hall Square, and discover romantic courtyards. Afternoon free.  

    Tallinn, the capital of Estonia is strategically located on the shores of the Gulf of Finland and the Baltic Sea and is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe with distinctive cobblestone streets, boasting Gothic spires, and enchanting architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tallinn was occupied in 1219 by King Valdemar of Denmark. Then followed a period of alternating Scandinavian and Tutonic rules. Due to its strategic location, the city became a major trade hub, especially from the 14th to the 16th century, when it grew in importance as part of the Hanseatic League. 
  • Wednesday, May 29 (B). TALLINN
    Today we take a general sightseeing by bus to the surroundings of Tallinn. This evening we will see an This evening we will see MADAMA BUTTERFLY by Puccini at the Estonian National Opera.
  • Thursday, May 30. (B). TALLINN – RIGA
    Today we drive from Tallinn, Estonia to Riga, Latvia where we three nights at the charming HOTEL KEMPINSKI near opera house. This evening we will see LA TRAVIATA by Verdi at the Latvian National Opera.
  • Friday, May 31. (B,D). RIGA
    Morning orientation tour by bus to see how Peter the Great of Russia expanded this seaport on the Baltic and made it into the important trading center that it is today. Among the sights are Saint Peter’s Church, Riga Castle, and the Dome Cathedral. Later, we will take a walking tour in the Art Nouveau quarter to see the buildings, which are now recognized as architectural monuments of national significance. We will finish the tour by visiting Art Nouveau Museum. Afternoon is free. This evening or the next, we will have dinner in hotel’s gourmet restaurant. 

    RIGA the capitol of Latvia lies at the mouth of Daugava River, where it meets the Baltic Sea. Riga has the largest collection of Art Nouveau houses built between 1904 to 1913. Riga is famous for its Old Town and city center, in which over 800 buildings are of the Art Nouveau style of architecture. The Art Nouveau style involves intricate building facades, with carvings of flowers and mythological creatures, with ornate doorways and windows. RIGA is a wonderful surprise to many visitors. A big city in feeling and sophistication, she has come to life again after half-a-century of Soviet domination. The moment you walk her streets, you understand why in the 1930s she was known as “The Little Paris of the North.” Perhaps the best indicator of Riga’s cultural strength is that far from old buildings being torn down to make way for high risers, they are being lovingly restored. Almost symbolically, one of the first to be brought back to its former glory, was the Opera House.
  • Saturday, June 1. (B). RIGA
    This morning we will take a walking tour of the Old Town. Among the sights to see is St. Peters Church, Town Hall square, House of Blackheads, St Johns Church, Koventa Seta, Dome Cathedral and Square. Afternoon is free. This evening we will see TURANDOT by Puccini at the Latvian National Opera.
  • Sunday, June 2. (B,D). RIGA – VILNIUS
    Today, we drive from Riga, Latvia, to Vilnius, Lithuania, where we will stay three nights at GRAND HOTEL KEMPINSKI. This evening is at leisure. 

    Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is a city brimming with history and culture. It is one of Europe's most well-preserved medieval cities, with charming cobblestone streets, Gothic spires, and captivating architecture. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vilnius offers a journey through time with its rich historical tapestry. The 17th-century Saints Peter and Paul's Church is a pearl of baroque architecture, inside and out. Vilnius's strategic location on the Gulf of Finland and the Baltic Sea shores has made it a pivotal trade hub throughout history, particularly during its time as part of the Hanseatic League.
  • Monday, June 3. (B). VILNIUS
    Today, you will immerse yourself in the captivating allure of Vilnius. We will start our day by sightseeing the city's historic Old Town. Visiting the iconic Gediminas Tower symbolizing the city's strength. You'll have the chance to discover the city's unique courtyards and their romantic atmosphere. Our journey continues with a visit to the Vilnius Cathedral, a significant religious and cultural symbol of Lithuania. We'll explore the quirky and artistic district of Užupis, known for its constitution and vibrant atmosphere. The afternoon is at leisure.
  • Tuesday, June 4. (B). VILNIUS
    Today, we'll take a morning sightseeing trip by bus to explore the picturesque surroundings of Vilnius. Our first stop will be Trakai Island Castle, a captivating medieval fortress on an island amid Lake Galvė. We visit Gedeminas Castle there. You'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene landscapes of Trakai and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area. In the late afternoon, we'll return to Vilnius. We will have our Gala Farewell dinner in a gourmet restaurant this evening.
  • Wednesday, June 5. (B). VILNIUS – BACK HOME
    Depart from the hotel to the Vilnius International airport for departure aboard your airline back home arriving the same afternoon. See you on another European Opera Tour.

    * B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner (including wine)
LAND COST
Double: $7,900 per person 
Single Supplement:  $1,350 
Deposit: $2,500 per person
Balance due: March 3, 2024
TOUR INCLUDES
  • 1st Category Orchestra Level seats in theaters
  • Transportation by bus between Tallinn to Riga and Riga to Vilnius
  • Four operas
  • Deluxe centrally located hotels
  • Buffet breakfast daily, 3 dinners with wine in gourmet restaurants
  • Welcome reception with drinks
  • Private sightseeing in each city
  • Experienced English-speaking guides
  • Entrance fees to museums
  • Transportation to and from theaters
  • Baggage handling
  • Guide, driver, and bellboy’s gratuities
  • Complete package with details of operas listed
AIRFARE
Airfare is not included. Please make sure that your airline ticket reads from home to Tallinn, Latvia and from Vilnius, Lithuania back home. We urge you to check airline cancellation penalties before purchasing airline tickets since international departure times and flights can change. We can assist you at no cost to find the most convenient flights.
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www.EuropeanOperaTours.com

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Testimonial
Clients Comments:

Travelling with H.A.T. tours is a feast for the senses, the mind, the heart. They plan the trips to include art, literature, food, culture and of course opera! Our trip this fall to Scandinavia and Russia was amazing. Images float into my mind giving me joy at such odd moments. Meeting new friends, eating dinner by a canal wrapped in a blanket, getting lost in the Hermitage, watching the people, being challenged by creative opera productions, thinking in a new way about the cultural distinctions among us. Now I must have candles lit for dinner, eat herring, watch for exibits by Max Ernst and plan more trips. (Scandinavia and Russia)

Kathleen Lee, United States