There is something magical about an event that has been held every 10 years for nearly 400 years – something that feels special, old and yet timeless in a changing world.
The world-renown Passion Play in Oberammergau, German is set to return for it’s once a decade performances in the European spring/summer of 2030 – a rare chance to see something that visitors on their Victorian Grand Tour or a world coming out of wars may have watched.
Knowing their market, of curious and intelligent travellers, Viking have announced two new river voyages for 2030 offering guests a rare opportunity to experience the 43rd Passion Play and allow guests time to explore Bavaria and destinations along the Rhine and Danube rivers (depending on the tour).
With departure dates from May through to September 2030, the new Oberammergau, Innsbruck and the Rhine and Oberammergau with Salzburg tours offer something unique according to Viking CEO and President Leah Talactac.
“Our guests are curious travellers who value meaningful cultural experiences and a deeper understanding of the places they visit,” the CEO said.
“We have welcomed guests to the Oberammergau Passion Play for two previous instalments and are pleased to introduce these new itineraries for 2030. By pairing this extraordinary event with a Rhine or Danube voyage, guests can explore some of Europe’s most historic destinations while experiencing a tradition that has endured for nearly 400 years.”
Since 2010, Viking has been privileged to host guests for this cherished event and is a partner of the Passion Play organisers. This long-standing relationship allows Viking to plan years ahead and to integrate the Passion Play seamlessly into thoughtfully designed itineraries, which include sailings on the company’s award-winning Viking Longships. Highlights of the new Oberammergau Passion Play itineraries in 2030 include:
Oberammergau, Innsbruck and the Rhine (13 days; Amsterdam to Munich): Sail the Middle Rhine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with castles, cathedrals and medieval towns. Savor the culinary traditions of the Alsace region and journey to Innsbruck, where verdant landscapes are framed by towering alpine peaks. In Oberammergau, experience the Passion Play, a cherished tradition that has been performed once a decade for nearly 400 years. Conclude your journey with an overnight stay in Munich, Bavaria’s historic capital.
Oberammergau with Salzburg (12 days; Oberammergau to Budapest): Embark on a journey through the heart of Central Europe. In Oberammergau, experience the Passion Play, a once-a-decade performance staged by villagers to honour a vow made in 1633. Explore historic Bavaria and charming Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for The Sound of Music. View scenic landscapes and visit historic cities as you sail the Danube River through Germany, Austria and Hungary.
For those who wish to learn more about Oberammergau and the Passion Play, Viking has also launched a dedicated online resource, featuring the history of the play, cultural insights and other destination information. The new webpage can be found at viking.com/Oberammergau.
