Attending a concert by one of the world’s best symphony orchestras is far more than simply enjoying live classical music. It’s a chance to step away from the daily hustle and be swept away by the beauty of each note.
At this time of year, distinguished orchestras, renowned musicians, and leading classical music festivals come together at their peak, offering unique performances. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, symphony orchestras perform both classical and unique pieces in iconic venues decorated specially for the season, making the experience even more magical.
For those with demanding schedules—business professionals, public figures, and diplomats—this journey offers much more than a series of concerts; it is a well-deserved respite after a year of work. Away from daily stresses, they can immerse themselves in an experience that blends the grandeur and emotion of live classical music with a moment of relaxation and escape from routine.
Here, music becomes a therapeutic tool. Its power to transport and soothe relieves stress and fosters rest, allowing you to savor art without distraction.
This tour is also a unique opportunity to visit some of the world’s most iconic cities, traveling across continents to enjoy the season’s most exceptional orchestral concerts while immersing in local culture uninterrupted.
More than just a trip, it’s a moment of pause, wellness, and cultural enrichment, ideal for those who seek in music and art a source of escape and inspiration, leaving behind their worries and recharging their spirit.
The great capitals of classical music and their most emblematic orchestras
Join us on a musical journey through the cities that host some of the world’s most prestigious symphony and philharmonic orchestras. This is a trip where you’ll experience the soothing beauty of classical music and immerse yourself in each city’s rich cultural offerings during this special time of year.
Planning a trip of this caliber requires meticulous attention to detail. Beyond concert attendance, careful consideration must be given to flights, accommodations, and seamless transportation around each city.
It’s well known that during this season, the number of travelers surges, leading to crowded airports and busy roads. This can disrupt travel plans, causing unexpected delays and stress—precisely what you want to avoid during your time of relaxation and vacation.
Issues like flight cancellations, delays, or road closures due to weather are important considerations when organizing your trip. Having alternative plans in place will be key to overcoming any setbacks and ensuring you arrive on time to all your scheduled events.
Having a private chauffeur will ensure that travel is hassle-free, making every trip between airports, hotels, and concerts efficient and worry-free. Additionally, if one of your concerts is canceled or rescheduled, your chauffeur can rearrange your route and suggest alternative activities, allowing you to continue enjoying your trip without interruption.
Discover the best symphonic concerts before the year ends
November and December are the ideal months to enjoy symphony concerts and orchestra events. Orchestras take advantage of this time to present special performances led by renowned conductors, featuring both classical and contemporary pieces.
During this season, the cities hosting these events are transformed, their streets adorned with Christmas decorations, while cultural and leisure offerings expand, creating a unique festive atmosphere.
Some of the most prestigious concerts scheduled for the upcoming months will take place in London, Montreal, Vienna, New York, and Berlin, showcasing the world’s most renowned symphony orchestras.
Concert by the London Symphony Orchestra
The first concert on this tour of various orchestras features the London Symphony Orchestra at the Barbican Centre.
Conductor Daniele Rustioni and violinist Francesca Dego will perform the finest works of Mendelssohn and Schubert in a concert that beautifully blends power and elegance.During your stay in London, take a mid-afternoon break to enjoy Royal High Tea in the gardens of Kensington Palace. Savor authentic British pastries, such as traditional scones with jam, paired with hot Earl Grey tea while admiring the beauty and history of these royal gardens. After this exquisite afternoon ritual, head to Regent Street to find the perfect gift while strolling under the dazzling Christmas lights, which feature over 300,000 LED bulbs.
Opening at the Montreal Bach Festival
The next stop on this tour is the Montreal Bach Festival, a Canadian celebration that annually honors composer Johann Sebastian Bach with concerts held in various auditoriums and theaters across the city.
On November 23, the festival will kick off with a grand opening concert at the Maison Symphonique de Montréal, featuring conductor Leonardo García Alarcón leading a performance of Bach’s renowned Mass in B minor, BWV 232, alongside sopranos Mariana Flores and Dara Savinova, tenor Nicholas Scott, and bass Andreas Wolf.Spend two weeks in Montreal, where you can immerse yourself in Bach’s compositions while exploring the city and enjoying activities such as exclusive auctions at the Iegor Hôtel des Encans. On November 19, you can attend a special liquor auction featuring unique cognacs like Cognac Napoléon Jules Robin and Cognac Rémy Martin Fine Champagne XO Special—an ideal opportunity to find a one-of-a-kind collector’s item.
Concert of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
If you’re in Vienna in November and prefer not to cross the Atlantic, consider attending the “Chamber Music” concert by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra on November 23.
This concert will take place in Gustav Mahler Hall at the Vienna State Opera, a historic venue that survived the bombings of World War II. “Chamber Music” is part of a concert series featuring compositions by Brahms, Mozart, and other great composers, selected exclusively for each performance.
While in Vienna, you can also soak in the city’s festive atmosphere by visiting the famous Christmas markets and enjoying a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic center. The scents of roasting chestnuts, gingerbread cookies, and mulled wine will envelop you as you walk among the charming wooden stalls lining the streets. After your stroll, enhance your experience with a wine tasting at Weingut Wieninger, where you can savor authentic Austrian wines guided by expert sommeliers who will detail the unique characteristics of each selection.
New York Philharmonic Christmas Concert
New York City hosts the next concert on this tour of the world’s finest orchestras. On December 14 and 15, the Sounds of the Season holiday concerts will take place as part of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra’s Holidays with the NY Phil program.
These concerts will be held at the David Geffen Hall in Wu Tsai Theater, conducted by Jeff Tyzik, who will lead the orchestra in performing classical compositions and holiday favorites, creating a truly special holiday atmosphere.
New York City is the perfect destination to spend a few days during this festive season. As you stroll along Fifth Avenue, you’ll not only find the perfect Christmas gifts but also enjoy the stunning window displays at iconic stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Tiffany & Co., which transform their windows into dazzling showcases of lights and Christmas scenes that change themes each year. After an exclusive shopping session, unwind with a hot chocolate while taking a walk through Central Park, and cap off your perfect day by attending a performance of the Nutcracker by the renowned New York City Ballet, one of the city’s most cherished annual traditions.
Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra’s New Year’s Eve Concert
Berlin is the final stop on this classical music tour. On December 29, 30, and 31, conductor Kirill Petrenko and pianist Daniil Trifonov will lead the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra’s New Year’s Eve concert, featuring classical works by Johannes Brahms and Richard Strauss.
This event is the perfect way to conclude the year, blending the majesty and power of the piano with the delicacy and charm of waltzes.
If you stay at the Hotel Adlon Kempinski, complete your visit to Berlin with an exclusive relaxing massage at the Adlon Spa by Resense, where you can unwind in one of their private spa suites before the new year begins. Recharge your spirit and finish the year by attending the New Year’s Eve gala dinner at Brasserie Quarré, located within the hotel and ideally situated to enjoy the spectacular fireworks at the Brandenburg Gate.The best way to travel comfortably and stress-free, ensuring you arrive on time for all your commitments, is to have a private transportation service with a chauffeur who handles the planning and organization of your routes.
Seamless logistics during the concert season
Planning this concert tour presents a significant logistical challenge, whether you’re organizing a long trip across several cities and countries or simply on a business trip abroad looking to catch a live concert from a recognized orchestra.
To make your journey more enjoyable and less stressful, the best option is to entrust your travel arrangements to a private chauffeur. Upon your arrival at the airport, your driver will be there waiting to take you to your next destination without any delays. They will assist you with your luggage and have pre-calculated routes to ensure maximum punctuality and efficiency. Furthermore, with their local knowledge, they can adapt routes in case of any unforeseen issues and recommend the most exclusive dining spots or iconic places to visit.
When it’s time to leave the city for a new destination, your driver will take you to the airport, and upon your arrival, another local driver will be waiting with your new itinerary, ensuring you don’t have to worry about a thing. At Drivania Chauffeurs, we specialize in arranging seamless travel between various cities while accommodating your schedule. Let our chauffeurs guide you on this tour of the world’s best symphony orchestras and elevate your travel experience to the highest level.