Austria and Germany
Travel Preview
Vienna
Days 1-3
Your trip begins in Vienna, the capital city of Austria. It is located on the Danube River and is known for its large imperial palaces and rich intellectual history. The Vienna State Opera is one of the most beautiful opera houses in the world and arguably the most famous. Whether you want to see one of the many operas or ballets that are performed each week or just go for a guided tour to enjoy the beautiful architecture the Vienna State Opera is a must visit. The architecture throughout Vienna is magnificent and no trip to Vienna would be complete without visits to Schonbrunn Palace, Belvedere Palace, and the Hofburg to enjoy the ornate interiors, as well as the perfectly manicured gardens.
As beautiful as the architecture is in Vienna, there is much more to this city. You can admire the Lipizzaner Horses as they dance to classical music at the Spanish Riding School and then enjoy a sunset from the Ferris wheel in Vienna’s popular amusement park, which dates back to 1897. At night a visit to a Heuriger (Wine Tavern) is always popular. These taverns are special because they serve Viennese wines, which are still produced within the city limits, along with local food in a great atmosphere.
Salzburg
Days 4-5
Your next stop after Vienna is the beautiful town of Salzburg, which is divided by the Salzach River and provides great views of the Eastern Alps. Salzburg is the birthplace of Mozart and his house is still preserved as a museum for visitors to enjoy. Sound of Music Tours are popular in Salzburg, especially tours of the beautiful Mirabell Palace, which was featured throughout the film. As you walk around Salzburg and you look up, you will notice the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress above you.
A short hike up to the top will provide you with stunning views of both Salzburg and the rural areas surrounding it. Just walking around the old town is a delight. Stroll along narrow cobblestone streets and enjoy the beautiful architecture and do not forget to visit Petersfriedhof, which is an eerily beautiful cemetery. Just one hour from Salzburg is one of the few undamaged monuments of the Hitler era, the Eagle’s Nest, which is perched high up in the mountains with breathtaking views of Austria and Germany.
Innsbruck
Days 6 - 7
As beautiful as the views are from Hohensalzburg Fortress in Salzburg, they get even better in Innsbruck. The area has long been famous for winter sports lovers, but even in the summer it is a must visit. The Nordkette Cable Car brings tourists up into the mountains to enjoy views of Innsbruck and the mountains surrounding the city. After coming down from the mountains via the cable car enjoy a walk through the streets of Innsbruck and the architecture which dates back over 800 years.
Make sure that you stop into a local tavern to try Wienerschnitzel, grosti, or a homemade apple strudel. Then walk to Markthalle to taste some locally made cheese, bread, and other local specialties. Local shops line the streets as well as numerous restaurants with outdoor seating and beer gardens. Make sure to sit outside to enjoy the magnificent mountain views.
Munich and
Neuschwanstein Castle
Days 8 - 11
Leaving Austria you will arrive in Munich, which is the trip’s last stop, but certainly not the least memorable. Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is world famous for its annual Oktoberfest celebration, but any time of year is a good time to visit this gem in southern Germany. Some of the best beer makers in the world can be found here, as well as some of the best beer halls. The famous three-story beer hall, Hofbrauhaus, which was founded in 1589 and Hirschgarten are two of the most popular.
Other day trips that we recommend are a trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, which served as inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, a trip to Königssee, or a trip to the
infamous Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle’s Nest.)
The Itinerary
The itinerary will contain all of the detailed information that you need for you and your group to independently travel around Ireland. All recommended hotels, restaurants, and attractions will be listed. All you need to do is follow the itinerary day-by-day and it will do the hard work for you. This itinerary has been used, tested, and tweaked over the last five years with great results. We have traveled around Ireland four times and recommend our favorite places in this itinerary.