Magical Christmas Markets

You’re on your way to uncover the unique charms of Austria and Germany and the incredible <I>Christkindlesmarkt</I> (Christmas market)!

Welcome to the town of Innsbruck, the capital of the Alps. Spend the next five nights nestled in the heart of the mountains. As arrival times will vary, there is no scheduled sightseeing today. Spend the day as you wish, exploring the city independently. Tonight, accompany your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner to celebrate your arrival in Austria.

This morning, <B>it’s your choice!</B> Walk through the charming streets of Innsbruck on a locally guided tour and take in landmarks such as the Golden Roof <B>-OR-</B> visit the Museum of Tyrolean Regional Heritage, getting a glimpse into 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 into town and participate in an interactive demonstration of how to make (and eat!) traditional strudel.

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 city and the famous thoroughfare of Mozart’s birthplace and continue towards Mirabell Gardens* and the iconic “Do-Re-Mi steps” from <I>The Sound of Music.</I> Head out to enjoy a free afternoon with the locals, affectionately known as “Salzburgers.” Do some treasure hunting at any of the six Christmas markets. Your day concludes at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, the oldest continuously-serving restaurant in Europe. Inside this centuries-old gem, indulge in traditional food.

Enjoy a full day at leisure in Innsbruck. Enjoy 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 <I>gluhwein</I> and <I>stollen</I>, while chestnuts roast on open fires. Perhaps you’ll enjoy an optional Tyrolean dinner and folklore show this evening.

Tour Linderhof Palace, the only palace - out of three - that King Ludwig II lived to see completed. Walk the extraordinary halls that were modelled 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.

<I>Wilkommen</I> 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 <I>bier</I> 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.

Your tour comes to a close today.