When winter arrives in Europe, the festive season is joyfully celebrated with Christmas-themed shop windows, colorful shimmering lights and trees brimming with brightly lit ornaments. Where the singing of well-remembered carols echo in the icy night air and good cheer overflows on the busy streets. With a cup of mulled wine or cider in hand, you’ll wander through the Christmas market stalls in Munich, Salzburg and Vienna on this 7-day trip through Germany and Austria. Take in the sights of historic European cities, the aromas and tastes of authentic Bavarian and Viennese cuisine and do some Christmas shopping between visits to breathtaking landmarks, palaces, and villages. Enjoy the festive spirit, and be sure to take something back for your friends and family! Please Note: This is an adventure travel itinerary that involves train transfers and transporting your own luggage between hotels and trains.
7 days
8 - 22 spots
Double Occupancy in 3-Star Hotels (limited single rooms available)
6 Breakfasts and 2 Dinners
Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30 P.M. to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into MUC.
Let's raise a glass together to an exciting trip ahead during your welcome dinner! Tonight's dinner will be at a local restaurant, just a quick walk from the hotel. It will feature a 2-course set menu or a la cart menu with a modern twist on traditional Bavarian cuisine. Please note that drinks are not included and are at your own expense. Kindly be aware that the menu is subject to change based on the confirmed restaurant.
Overnight in Munich, Germany
Start the day with a hearty breakfast to fuel your adventures. With your tour leader, you will walk towards the city center or take public transportation. From there, embark on an orientation walk, immersing yourself in Munich's rich history and vibrant culture. Afterwards, you will explore the grandeur of Nymphenburg Palace, marveling at its opulent architecture and lush gardens. Before heading to the Christmas market, you will have time for a leisurely lunch at your own pace. After arriving at the market, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the Munich Christmas market, where the air is filled with the scent of mulled wine and cinnamon. Sample local delicacies and sip on warm mulled wine as you browse through traditional crafts and holiday decorations. With the night ahead of you, embrace the freedom to explore Munich's nightlife or simply unwind at your own pace. You will be doing a fair amount of walking today on paved roads, paths and cobblestones so please be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress comfortably.
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN
Using your public transportation tickets (which will be provided by your tour leader), you will take the tram and then walk for 10 minutes to the Palace. Nymphenburg Palace, built in the late 17th century, is an architectural masterpiece, with sprawling, beautifully manicured grounds. On this tour, you'll learn the history of the royalty connected to this magnificent site as you visit the museums within the palace walls. Your entrance ticket into the palace is included. The timing of the day will be confirmed in your final itinerary. If you receive an afternoon ticket you will do the orientation walk first.
APPROX. 1 HOUR
From your hotel, you will walk with your tour leader to take public transportation to become aquatinted with the city. Surrounded by the Bavarian Alps, this cosmopolitan city, with its breathtaking architecture, is alive with art, history and music, and its world-famous markets. Some highlights of the tour include seeing the Marienplatz, Frauenkriche, and Town Hall. You will be walking for roughly 1-2 miles, so please wear comfortable walking shoes.
APPROX. 1 HOUR
Experience Europe's incredible Christmas markets, including the Kripperlmarkt, where you'll find everything from carved decorations, to food and drink stalls, as well as all the materials you would need to create your own nativity scene. Tollwood Christmas Market is a vibrant market, with more than 200 brightly colored stalls containing organic delicacies from all over the world. Music lovers will be able to get into the festive spirit with a special alpine Christmas market concert from the balcony of Munich's town hall.
APPROX. 15 MIN
One mulled wine tasting is included during your Christmas market tour.
Overnight in Munich, Germany
Kickstart your day with a full breakfast. Afterwards, you will board a scenic train ride, traversing picturesque landscapes as you make your way to the enchanting city of Salzburg. Depending on the timing, your tour leader will advise on when you can enjoy a leisurely lunch. Upon arrival, check into your new accommodations, settling into the charming ambiance of Salzburg. Then, embark on an orientation walk through the city, soaking in its timeless charm and iconic landmarks. After, ascend to the majestic Hohensalzburg Fortress, perched high above the city, and delve into its rich history and panoramic views of Salzburg below. As twilight descends, immerse yourself in the festive ambiance of the Salzburg Christmas market. Wander through the stalls adorned with twinkling lights, sampling seasonal treats and handcrafted treasures amidst the magical atmosphere of the holiday season.
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
APPROX. 2 HOURS
From your hotel, you'll walk to the train station. If your hotel is more than a 15-minute walk away, a private transfer will be provided. You'll then take a scenic train ride to Salzburg - train tickets are included. Onboard, you'll find restrooms and a snack cart. Upon arrival in Salzburg, you'll walk to your new accommodations.
APPROX. 30 MIN
From your hotel, you will walk to the city center to begin your tour. If needed, your tour leader will help facilitate public transportation to get there. Once in town, with the Salzach River running through its center, you will see that Salzburg is an enchanting city surrounded by the Eastern Alps. Meander through cobblestone lanes, between centuries-old buildings, and take in the atmosphere and magnificent views. Some highlights of the tour include seeing the Catherdral Square, Mozzart's birthplace, the Salzach river promenade, Famous Getreidegasse shopping street, and the birthplace of mozartkugel. You will be walking for roughly 1-2 miles, so please wear comfortable walking shoes.
APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN
Afterwards, you'll walk to the station and take a cable car up to the medieval fortress of Hohensalzburg, one of the largest medieval castles in Europe. This towering fortress is situated on the Festungsberg, 1,660 feet above the city. Your entrance ticket is included and once inside the fortress, you will have time to explore on your own. Later, you will meet back at the cable car at a set time and head to the Christmas market.
APPROX. 1 HOUR
The aroma of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, toasted almonds and cinnamon-brushed baked apples will waft through the marketplace as the beautiful sounds of traditional carols sung by the Salzburg choir fill the air. Browse through unique gifts and souvenirs, handcrafted by local artisans, offering the perfect memento of your visit to this magical market. The market will come alive with all the sights, smells and sounds, inviting you to linger and soak in the joyful spirit of the holiday season.
Overnight in Salzburg.
Another beautiful day in Austria! After breakfast, experience the Christmas magic as you embark on a scenic journey to visit charming villages and their enchanting Christmas markets. From the picturesque shores of Lake Wolfgangsee to the historic streets of St. Wolfgang, immerse yourself in festive cheer and holiday delights on this unforgettable adventure.
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
APPROX. 7 HOURS
Start the day by walking from the hotel to the bus stop at Main Station, where you will board a bus bound for St. Gilgen. Upon arrival, you will board a shared boat and take a scenic ride across Wolfgangsee Lake to reach Strobl, followed by another boat ride to St. Wolfgang. In each village, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the Christmas markets, where an array of food stalls awaits. Lunch will be at your discretion, allowing flexibility in your exploration. After indulging in the delights of these charming towns, you will take the bus back to Salzburg. Throughout the day, transportation tickets are provided, ensuring seamless travel. Although there will be breaks on the bus and boat, expect continuous walking, so comfortable footwear is recommended for todays excursion.
Overnight in Salzburg.
Start your day with a delightful breakfast before embarking on a journey to Vienna, Austria's historic capital. Upon arrival and checking in, join your group for a leisurely stroll through the city, taking in its rich history and vibrant culture. Recharge with a delicious lunch and then set off to explore the city's delights. Your tour leader will provide you with an all access 48-hour pass for public transportation throughout the city. In the afternoon, make your way to Austria's renowned Christmas market, located in front of City Hall. Indulge in festive treats, sip on mulled wine, and immerse yourself in the merry atmosphere. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of the holiday season as you create cherished memories in this enchanting setting.
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
APPROX. 2 HOURS 30 MIN
From your hotel, you'll walk to the train station. If your hotel is more than a 15-minute walk away, a private transfer will be provided. You'll then take a scenic train ride to Vienna - train tickets are included. Onboard, you'll find restrooms and a snack cart. Upon arrival in Vienna, you'll walk to your new accommodations.
APPROX. 45 MIN
From your hotel, you will walk or take public transportation to join your tour leader for a leisurely stroll through Vienna, as they highlight the city's iconic landmarks. Marvel at the majestic architecture of St. Stephen's Cathedral, explore the bustling Graben, and admire the historic Hofburg Palace. Pass by Karlsplatz and the grand Vienna Opera House before reaching the impressive City Hall. Your tour leader will offer short stops at all the significant sites along the way, ensuring a comprehensive orientation of Vienna's highlights. This informative tour covers approximately 1-2 miles, so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.
APPROX. 1 HOUR
This afternoon, immerse yourself in the spirit of the festive season at this vibrantly decorated market. With over 40 colorful and brightly lit stalls, you'll be captivated by the traditional handicrafts, culinary delights, and Christmas magic on offer. Set against the backdrop of magnificent baroque architecture, the atmosphere is sure to enchant and delight all who visit.
Overnight in Vienna.
Start the day with a delicious breakfast before visiting the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace for a self-guided Imperial Tour, immersing yourself in the grandeur of Austria's imperial history. Afterwards, the vibrant city of Vienna awaits your exploration. Spend the remainder of the day as you please, whether indulging in some last-minute shopping, admiring the city's iconic sights, or meandering through one of Vienna's 12 enchanting Christmas markets. As evening falls, reconvene with your group for a memorable farewell dinner, raising a toast to the unforgettable experiences shared during your trip.
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN
Using your provided public transportation tickets, you will take the metro to the Palace. Your entrance ticket is included. Once inside, take a self-guided tour of the Schoenbrunn Palace, with its breathtaking architecture and beautifully manicured gardens. This magnificent Rococo-style palace has 1,441 rooms and was the main summer residence of the Habsburg rulers. In 1786, Mozart performed in the palace Orangery. At the end of the tour, you will transfer back to town for the remainder of the day.
Conclude your journey with a heartwarming farewell dinner. Share laughter and memories with newfound friends at a local restaurant. Savor the best of Austrian cuisine, toast to your adventures, and bid farewell to an incredible trip. Dinner will feature a 2-course set menu or an a la cart menu. Please note that drinks are not included and are at your own expense. Kindly be aware that the menu is subject to change based on the confirmed restaurant.
Overnight in Vienna.
All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of VIE.
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
Itineraries may change throughout the year due to several factors
including logistical issues, Traveler feedback, or operational changes.
The provided itinerary, including estimated times, serve as guidelines
only. As your date of travel approaches, our Operators will amend the
itinerary to include more details, adjust activities and provide updated
information.
TrovaTrip and our Operators reserve the right to alter itineraries as we
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