testimonials
Here's what some of our travelers are saying about our one-of-a-kind tours.
"Cathedrals and Chapels of England"
I had the most amazing experience with Sacred Music Tours on their Cathedrals and Chapels of England tour! It was the perfect blend of breathtaking choral and organ music, fascinating history, and truly memorable meals.
Cambridge completely charmed me. Its stunning architecture, historic chapels, and walkable streets made exploring a joy. We even used the “Hop-On Hop-Off” bus for a sweeping overview, then spent our afternoons strolling cobblestone lanes, enjoying Evensong in the college chapels, and sampling the local food. The choral and organ music at those services was so moving—I finally understood why this tradition is considered some of the finest choral music in the English-speaking world.
Our centrally located hotel made it easy to wander through parks, stroll along the River Cam to watch punting boats, and climb St. Mary’s Church tower for a breathtaking view over the city. Beyond Cambridge, I loved discovering the small towns and cathedrals nearby. Many dated back to the Norman Conquest—truly engineering marvels! Ely Cathedral’s Octagon Tower tour was a highlight, offering spectacular rooftop views.
Every meal was a delight thanks to the thoughtful selections curated by Chef Scott. I never expected English food to be so good! From a proper afternoon tea to hearty fare in English pubs and elegant bistros, dining was a treat all its own.
The behind-the-scenes access made this trip extraordinary. Attending choir rehearsals, speaking with directors, and hearing organ demonstrations by the cathedral organists gave me a glimpse into the living heartbeat of sacred music.
London capped off the journey in grand style. Standing inside Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral, hearing Evensong sung in those historic spaces, was an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Our luxurious hotel was in a gorgeous neighborhood, walking distance from London’s best museums and attractions. I loved exploring the Victoria & Albert Museum, Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace, and Hyde Park. I truly loved the unique Handel & Hendrix House, celebrating two musical geniuses separated by centuries.
And of course, the meals in London were just as spectacular—from afternoon tea at a luxury hotel to a flaming Steak Diane prepared table-side at a lavish restaurant. Every detail of this journey blended music, history, culture, and cuisine into an experience I will never forget.
—Ronald G. June 2025
"Paris – Beyond the Facades"
My Sacred Music Tours Paris trip was an unforgettable experience! It was the perfect blend of breathtaking sacred music, historic cathedrals, world-class art, and exquisite Parisian cuisine.
The trip began on a high note with Mass at the newly restored Notre Dame Cathedral. Walking into its gleaming stone interior and hearing some of the finest organ music in the world was overwhelming—the postlude was so moving it brought tears to my eyes. Later in the week, I was fortunate to return for an unforgettable organ concert, an experience I will never forget.
Music filled our days in other extraordinary ways as well. From the dazzling stained glass of Sainte-Chapelle, where the setting itself seemed to sing, to our visit to Sacré-Cœur Basilica, where the soaring sacred space created a breathtaking resonance, each stop revealed the living heart of Paris’s musical and spiritual heritage. Behind-the-scenes touches, like private tours and the chance to linger and listen, made it even more meaningful.
Our hotel’s location was ideal—just a short walk from Notre Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, and the Panthéon, with easy access to the Louvre, Luxembourg Gardens, and the Seine. I loved that the itinerary combined group visits with free time to explore: sipping coffee at an outdoor café, wandering Luxembourg Gardens by the Medici Fountain, or simply watching sailboats glide across the pond while gazing at Marie de Medici’s palace.
The cultural highlights were just as rich. Our private tour at the Louvre gave us an intimate encounter with masterpieces, while exploring Montmartre let us wander cobblestone streets and soak up the atmosphere of the historic artists’ quarter. From the panoramic views at Sacré-Cœur to a lively evening at the Moulin Rouge, every moment felt like a feast for the senses.
And speaking of feasts—the dining was remarkable! Every meal captured the best of Paris. From elegant multi-course dinners and afternoon cocktails to a perfectly cooked shrimp risotto in a charming garden restaurant, each dish added to the magic of the journey.
This Paris tour was a perfect combination of music, history, culture, and cuisine. The sacred music, in particular, elevated the trip beyond sightseeing into something profoundly moving. I cannot recommend it highly enough!
—Lori M. May 2025
"Echoes of Leipzig – A Pilgrimage to Bach's Sacred Spaces"
I recently had the chance to embark on an unforgettable journey to Leipzig, Germany, for the world-famous Bach Festival. It was my very first time in Germany, and I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction. Every detail of the trip was beautifully arranged — from our centrally located hotel, which put us right in the heart of the festival energy, to the seamless flow of events that made it easy to savor every moment.
What stood out most, beyond the breathtaking concerts, was the sense of community. Traveling with fellow musicians created an instant bond. Together we celebrated our shared love of music while soaking in Leipzig’s extraordinary cultural heritage. Standing in the very city where Bach lived and worked, and hearing his music performed with such passion, was profoundly moving. The organ concerts, in particular, stirred the soul — the kind of experience that stays with you long after the final note fades.
And then there was the food — truly a highlight of its own. With a professional chef guiding us, each meal felt like a culinary journey. From authentic German specialties to international flavors, every dish was paired with exquisite wines that elevated the experience even further. It was a feast for both palate and spirit.
Honestly, it’s impossible to pick just one favorite moment. Every day brought something extraordinary, and the trip as a whole was nothing short of phenomenal. If you’re even considering this experience, don’t hesitate — go. You’ll return enriched, inspired, and eager to do it all again.
—Mary D. June 2024