Bavarian Walks & Austrian Culture

Flight from the U.S. to Munich, Germany.

Arrive in Munich and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy some leisure time to relax and adjust to the time difference. This evening, join the group for a welcome dinner at a traditional Bavarian restaurant. Overnight in Munich.

Experience Munich on a guided half-day city tour, exploring the city’s most iconic sights and getting a sense of its rich history, culture, and modern energy. Highlights include BMW World, where sleek automotive design meets cutting-edge technology; the elegant Nymphenburg Palace Gardens, a Baroque masterpiece of fountains, sculptures, and tree-lined avenues; and the Olympic Grounds, a symbol of modern architecture and Munich’s dynamic spirit. After a group lunch, enjoy the afternoon at your own pace. Wander historic streets, browse charming boutiques, or relax in a traditional café while soaking up the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Activity Level: Moderate – involves walking approximately 1–2 miles on mostly flat terrain, with short periods on foot at each site. Overnight in Munich.

Explore the scenic beauty of Lake Chiemsee, often called the “Bavarian Sea” for its vast, sparkling waters and breathtaking Alpine backdrop, on a full-day tour. Visit Herreninsel, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Herrenchiemsee Palace, King Ludwig II’s opulent palace inspired by Versailles. Then continue by boat to Fraueninsel, a picturesque and tranquil island with a historic Benedictine monastery, charming artisan shops, and lakeside cafés. Once a haven for pilgrims, painters, and artisans, the island today enchants visitors with its peaceful streets, fresh Chiemsee whitefish, and stunning lake views. Wander both islands and soak in the spectacular scenery while experiencing the rich history and culture of this unique region. Activity Level: Moderate – requires walking approximately 1–2 miles on mostly flat terrain at a comfortable pace. Overnight in Munich.

Depart Munich and journey past majestic mountains and a protected moorland to Lake Walchensee, often called the “Bavarian Caribbean” for its vivid turquoise waters. Embark on a scenic hike along the lake’s shores, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding Alps and enjoying the tranquil beauty of this alpine gem. After the hike, continue on a picturesque drive through Jachenau, one of Bavaria’s most charming valleys, dotted with traditional farms and verdant landscapes, before arriving in Garmisch-Partenkirchen for your overnight stay. Activity Level: Moderate-Active – includes a 4.7-mile hike along mostly flat terrain with scenic mountain views. Overnight in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Enjoy a day exploring Garmisch-Partenkirchen with a guided walking tour through the town’s charming Bavarian architecture, historic streets, and vibrant local culture. Wander past beautifully painted houses, traditional shops, and quaint squares while learning about the region’s history and customs. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to stroll the pedestrian streets, browse local boutiques, relax in a café, or simply take in the stunning Alpine scenery that surrounds this picturesque town. Activity Level: Easy to Moderate – includes walking on town streets with optional strolling during free time. Overnight in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Depart in the morning for a visit to Partnach Gorge, a dramatic natural wonder carved by glacial waters through the rocky mountains. Begin at the 1936 Olympic Ski Stadium, where you’ll learn about its history and explore the facilities before setting out on a hike to the gorge. Follow wooden and stone pathways that wind past towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and rushing streams. At the top of the mountain, enjoy lunch at a traditional Alpine hut, savoring Kaiserschmarrn, a fluffy shredded pancake typical of the Bavarian Alps, while taking in spectacular panoramic views. You have two options to reach the hut: continue hiking up the mountain for a scenic ascent or return through the gorge and take the Graseckbahn cable car. After the hike, return to your hotel in Garmisch for a leisurely afternoon, enjoying the resort’s spa amenities or exploring the charming town at your own pace. Activity Level (Option 1): Moderate-Active – includes approximately 4-5 miles of walking on uneven paths and steps through the gorge, with some uphill sections to reach the Alpine Hut. (Option 2): Moderate – includes approximately 3 miles of walking on uneven paths and steps through the gorge. Overnight in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Transfer from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to Salzburg, a city renowned for its baroque architecture, musical heritage, and stunning Alpine backdrop. In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour of the Old Town, wandering through historic squares, charming streets, and notable landmarks that inspired Mozart and other luminaries. Ascend to Hohensalzburg Fortress via the Festungsbahn funicular, one of Europe’s largest medieval fortresses, and enjoy panoramic views of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps. In the evening, experience a Mozart Dinner Concert, savoring a gourmet meal accompanied by the timeless music of Salzburg’s most famous composer. Activity Level: Moderate – includes walking on historic streets. Overnight in Salzburg.

Begin the day with a visit to Hellbrunn Palace, renowned for its playful trick fountains, beautiful gardens, and fascinating history. Stroll through the palace grounds, enjoy the whimsical water features, and discover the stories behind this unique Baroque estate. In the afternoon, enjoy leisure time in Salzburg to explore the city at your own pace. Wander the charming streets of the Old Town, browse boutique shops, relax in a café, or simply take in the views of the Salzach River and the surrounding Alps. Conclude the day with a farewell dinner, celebrating your journey and sharing memories of your time in this enchanting region. Activity Level: Easy – involves walking on mostly flat paths through the palace grounds and gardens with optional strolling during free time. Overnight in Salzburg.

Transfer from Salzburg to the Munich Airport for flights returning to the U.S.

Arrive two nights early in Munich to settle in and begin your Bavarian adventure. On the first day, enjoy a scenic bike tour along the Isar River, from the English Garden to the rafting area, learning about the river’s Celtic roots, its historical importance, and the innovative renaturation project that restores its natural flow. Along the way, you’ll have free time to explore Munich, taking in its parks, streets, and vibrant culture at your own pace. The second day takes you to the fairy-tale world of Neuschwanstein and Linderhof castles, marveling at the stunning architecture and landscapes that inspired King Ludwig II.

Extend your stay in Salzburg with a hands-on Apple Strudel and Salzburger Nockerl cooking class, learning to prepare these iconic Austrian desserts. In the afternoon, enjoy a private three-hour bike tour through Salzburg’s charming streets, gardens, and landmarks, including Mirabell Gardens, Leopoldskron Palace, and Nonnberg Abbey, with scenic photo stops and engaging stories. In the evening, savor a Salzburg beer and food experience. The following day, explore the Salzkammergut and the picturesque village of Hallstatt, riding the mountain train to the world’s oldest salt mines, enjoying panoramic lake views, passing the Mullbach waterfall, and visiting the local museum to learn about the Hallstatt period. Return to Salzburg, and on the final day, transfer to Munich Airport for return flights to the U.S.