Itinerary Details
Magical Christmas Markets of Austria and Germany
Day 1 Overnight Flight
You’re on your way to uncover the unique charms of Austria and Germany and the incredible Christkindlesmarkt (Christmas market)!
Day 2 Seefeld, Austria
Hotel: Hotel Seelos
Welcome to Seefeld, a picturesque Alpine town nestled in Tyrolean mountains. Spend the next five nights in the idyllic village, located 3,600 feet (1,097 meters) above sea level and known as one of the world’s great ski resorts. Tonight, accompany your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner to celebrate your arrival in Austria.(D)
Day 3 Seefeld - Innsbruck - Seefeld
Hotel: Hotel Seelos
This morning, it’s your choice! Walk through the charming streets of Innsbruck on a locally guided tour and take in landmarks such as the Golden Roof -OR- visit the Museum of Tyrolean Regional Heritage, getting a glimpse into this historic region through traditional costumes and handicrafts. Next, journey back to Seefeld to find an authentic horse-drawn carriage – and a traditional gift of schnapps – waiting for you. Belt out a carol or two as you are whisked into town and participate in an interactive demonstration of how to make (and eat!) traditional strudel.(B)
Day 4 Seefeld - Salzburg - Seefeld
Hotel: Hotel Seelos
Over the mountains and through the woods of the Austrian countryside resides the storybook Old Town of Salzburg. Journey through the baroque heart of the Old City and the famous thoroughfare of Mozart’s birthplace, and continue towards Mirabell Gardens* and the iconic “Do-Re-Mi steps” from The Sound of Music. Head out to enjoy a free afternoon with the locals, affectionately known as “Salzburgers.” Do some treasure hunting at any of six Christmas markets. Your day concludes at St. Peter’s Skiftskeller, the oldest continuously-serving restaurant in Europe. Inside this centuries-old gem, indulge in traditional food.(B, D)
Day 5 Seefeld - Salzburg - Seefeld
Hotel: Hotel Seelos
This morning, journey by train to enjoy a day at leisure in Innsbruck. Go treasure hunting at the Christmas markets, brimming with the sights, smells, and sounds of the season. Be on the lookout for St. Nicholas and even Krampus as they march through the market stalls. Revel in good cheer while brass bands play from the towers and indulge in some gluhwein and stollen, while chestnuts roast on open fires. Perhaps you’ll enjoy an optional Tyrolean dinner and folklore show this evening.(B)
Day 6 Seefeld - Oberammergau, Germany - Seefeld, Austria
Hotel: Hotel Seelos
Tour Linderhof Palace, the only palace - out of three - that King Ludwig II lived to see completed. Walk the extraordinary halls that were modeled after Versailles with an expert guide and bask in the luxury of past royals. Your journey continues to Oberammergau. Enjoy a lunch featuring regional cuisine before spending some time on your own getting to know this picture-perfect Bavarian village.(B, L)
Day 7 Seefeld - Munich, Germany
Hotel: Mövenpick Hotel Munich Airport
Wilkommen to Munich! Venture to Marienplatz and see the iconic Glockenspiel,** where life-size figurines spin and dance. Enjoy free time to explore, perhaps grabbing a bier at the renowned Hofbrauhaus or doing some final holiday shopping at one of Europe’s largest Christmas markets. Join a local guide on a tour of Munich, passing by famous sights such as the Royal Square and Parliament Building. Close your day, toasting to the end of your seasonal sojourn at an early farewell dinner before you depart to your hotel near the Munich airport.(B, D)
Day 8 Munich - Tour Ends
Your tour comes to a close today.(B)
