Christmas in Magical Prague

19th to 29th December or
22nd to 29th December

Prague has a special magic at Christmas and New Year - the snow on the trees gives a fairyland atmosphere, the Christmas Market in the Old Town Square is one of the most charming in Europe and the festive atmosphere creates a really special occasion. Many people feel that Prague, in any season, is the most magnificent city in Europe. In the Old Town, founded in the 10th Century, there is a unique sense of history. The majestic spires and mediaeval buildings reflect the importance of Prague as the centre of the Holy Roman Empire in the 14th Century. The Renaissance and Baroque Palaces, the splendid squares, the grandeur of Prague castle as well as the narrow mediaeval cobbled streets will totally captivate you. The views across the Vltava River to the Castle and St Vitus Cathedral and the romantic Mala Strana, Lesser Town, are absolutely breathtaking. Looking down on the Old Town and the many bridges over the river you will come under the spell of this truly amazing city. Prague has had virtually no damage from wars and you will find your visit an incredible experience.

We have guided excursions to introduce you to this splendid city. You will be totally enchanted as you walk the narrow cobbled alleys, sit in historic cafes or just wander over the amazing 14th Century Charles Bridge in your spare time.

"Many thanks for a fabulous vacation. We had a wonderful time. The music playing, coaching, operas, concerts, the sights, the food and last, but not least, the company all combined into a perfect holiday. We very much enjoyed meeting you and your friends and look forward to seeing you again soon."
Bob and Judy Bacskai. California.

ACCOMMODATION is a modern four star hotel near the Castle with stunning views overlooking the Old Town, extensive parks and the city. Single and twin/double bedrooms all have bathrooms, phone, cable TV and a safe. A limited number of suites are available on request. An extensive buffet breakfast is included. There are two restaurants, a bar, a shop, currency exchange facilities, Wi-Fi internet connection to your laptop and an internet room, a guest relations office where you can make opera, concert and other reservations and enclosed car parking. A sports club with a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, gym and a beauty salon with treatments including shiatsu and various massages are part of the complex. Over the past twelve years we have been staying in this hotel the friendly efficient staff have become a feature. The location is ideal, around six minutes walk to Prague Castle area and surroundings, one of the most spectacular parts of Prague. The hotel is set back from the road where trams leave frequently for a ride of around 12 minutes to the delightful Lesser Quarter and the Charles Bridge which leads to the Old Town. This is really magical in winter with the trees snow covered - like fairyland!

CONCERTS and OPERAS.
There will be at least four Chamber Music concerts in Villa Bertramka and other historic sites. Programmes on the website as soon as they are published. The ballet The Nutcracker at the National Theatre on 26th December and an opera – Janacek’s  The Makropulos Affair also at the National Theatre on 28th December are included. Tickets for these performances sell out quickly so early application is essential.

MUSICAL ORGANISATION. Coaching sessions will be held by members of the Herold, Kocian, Stamic, Nostitz, Quartets. Playing will be scheduled on eight mornings, freelance playing at other times. You may request a specific quartet or other music for coaching. A music library and stands are provided and violin, viola, cello and keyboard rentals are available. Opportunities to meet members of the Quartets on social occasions as well as during the coaching sessions gives a unique insight into a city which for many people is the chamber music centre of the world.

"The amateur players were each fully experienced. I enjoyed many pieces by composers who had connections with Prague such as Mozart, Smetana, Dvorak. It was very surprising to have coaches every day from three or four leading string quartets in Prague, and we were taught the interpretation of music and the know how of ensemble playing. At the end of the nine days together I was tempted to extend three days more."
Masao Nagata. Tokyo, Japan.

MEALS & PARTIES: Either dinner or lunch every day with a special Christmas Lunch and another lunch in one of the most famous restaurants in Prague. On the first evening there will be Welcome Party followed by Dinner in a charming restaurant with traditional Czech food and wines and a fantastic Gypsy Band and Czech Dancers. There will be other parties during this Festive Season including one to meet members of the famous Czech Quartets, some of whom are our coaches.

"To listen to Mozart played by a world class ensemble in the villa where he composed Don Giovanni, while being close enough to turn the pages for the first violin was a truly unforgettable experience. To have such a knowledgeable guide as Pavel was a pleasure and gave a real insight into the lifestyles of old and present Prague."
Jan and Steve Martin, Australia

SIGHTSEEING. Specialist guides will not only give you information but also a fund of background knowledge about this fascinating city. Tours will include walking tours with a guide to many of the places of interest and visits to museums. Prague lends itself to being explored on foot.

• A guided walking tour of the delightful Lesser Town, the historic Charles Bridge.
• A guided walking tour of Prague Castle and the surrounding area including St Vitus Cathedral, the Loretto, the Golden Lane and much more.
• A guided walk in the Old Town including the Old Town Square with one of the world's most famous clocks and the historic Jewish Quarter.
• Before asttending a concert there, we visit the Mozart Museum in the historic Villa Bertramka where he composed Don Giovanni.
• Visit the Museum of Musical Instruments.
• A walk around the famous Christmas Market in the Old Town Square to experience the magical atmosphere. We take an elevator to the top of the Town Hall in the Old Town Square for a birds eye view over the city.
• Free afternoons to visit museums of your choice.

Transport passes for all the excursions are included.

"I want to let you know how much I enjoyed the Prague experience - 'the whole bit' - concerts, company, accommodation, meals and parties and a 'trouble free' holiday in a wonderful centre.”
Jennifer Fielding, Sydney, Australia.

PRICES

(Discount of 10% for the 10 or 7 day holiday for payment in full by 4th July)

10 days
Double/twin - 1,560 euros
Single – 1,810 euros
For non players a discount of 90 euros

7 days
Double/twin – 1,192 euros
Single – 1,368 euros 
For non players a discount of 70 euros

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PRICE INCLUDES: Accommodation with large buffet breakfast and either lunch or dinner, all activities including parties, excursions including entrances to museums listed on excursions, tickets for concerts and operas as listed, public transport tickets for excursions and other group activities. Also coaching, the use of music stands and the music library. Instruments including keyboards can be rented. Air tickets to Prague are not included as participants come from all over the world.

To book and pay with a UK personal cheque or a UK online transfer in GB Pounds click here.

To pay by bank to bank transfer in Euros click here.

To book this holiday and pay online by credit card in Pounds Sterling click here. Note that the final invoice will include an additional Paypal handling fee of 3.9% of the total cost. If you encounter any problems please email Vivienne cmhf@otenet.gr.

We reserve the right to make changes due to circumstances beyond our control.