Magical Christmas Markets

You're on your way to uncover the unique charms of Austria and Germany and the incredible Christkindlesmarkt (Christmas market)!

Welcome to the town of Innsbruck, capital of the Alps. Spend the next five nights nestled in the heart of the mountains. Tonight, accompany your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner to celebrate your arrival in Austria. Today dinner will be included.

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, enjoying a glimpse of this historic region through traditional costumes and handicrafts. Next, journey by train 3,600 feet above sea level to the idyllic village of Seefeld, one of the world's great ski resorts thanks to miles of lakes and trails. Step off the train into the pure Alpine air 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 across the snow and participate in an interactive demonstration of how to make (and eat!) traditional strudel. Glide your way back to Innsbruck. Today breakfast will be included.

Over the mountains and through the woods of the Austrian countryside resides the storybook Old Town of Salzburg. Head over to Mirabell Gardens and the iconic "Do-Re-Mi steps" from The Sound of Music. Then, journey through the baroque heart of the Old City and the famous thoroughfare of Mozart's birthplace. Head out to enjoy a free afternoon with the locals, affectionately known as "Salzburgers." Be sure to enjoy a traditional Mozart chocolate (or two) and 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 a traditional dessert. Today breakfast will be included.

Enjoy a full 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. Today breakfast will be included.

View the magnificence of Neuschwanstein Castle as you enjoy a photo stop of the fairytale creation of Bavaria's "Mad King." 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. Today breakfast and lunch will be included.

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 panoramic 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 a farewell dinner. Today breakfast and dinner will be included.

*Due to unforeseen schedule changes, witnessing the performance of the Glockenspiel might not be possible.

Your tour comes to a close today. Today breakfast will be included.