Oktoberfest: Germany, Switzerland & Austria 14 days / Special Event Tours
About This Experience
Get to know Germanic Europe in all of its diversity, from high-flying mountain majesty to laid-back beer drinking. Travel back to the Renaissance in historic Heidelberg, home to Germany’s oldest university. Then, soak up the tranquility of the Alps as you make your way to the lakeside resort of Lucerne and the winter wonderland of Innsbruck. Trade mountainside serenity for the festivities in Munich, where you’ll raise a stein with the locals at the legendary Oktoberfest. And after savoring your fair share of beer, head to Salzburg to listen out for the sweet sounds of Mozart before ending your journey in the always-stylish Vienna.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
12 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily; 6 three-course dinners with wine or beer
Private deluxe motor coach
Multilingual Tour Director
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
Oktoberfest!
Storybook castles in Heidelberg & Neuschwanstein
Whimsical Glockenspiel, highlight of Marienplatz in Munich
The opulent Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna
Dark coffee & flaky pastries in bohemian cafes
Stunning mountain scenery at every turn
Overnight Flight1 night
Heidelberg Region2 nights - hotel info
Day2
Experience the allure of the Renaissance in Heidelberg
Breakfast (in flight), Dinner
A Go Ahead representative greets you at the airport in Frankfurt after you clear customs and then assists you with the transfer to your hotel in the Heidelberg Region. The rest of the day is free to relax. Meet your fellow travelers at an included dinner this evening.
Day3
Wander the historic halls of Germany’s oldest university
Breakfast
Heidelberg Castle
This morning, enjoy a guided tour of Heidelberg. You’ll visit the city’s rose-colored hilltop castle, the grounds of the oldest university in Germany and Heidelberg’s elegant market square. This afternoon is free at leisure. You may wish to join an optional tour of Schwetzingen Castle and its 172 acres of gardens, which combine French formal and English landscape gardening styles.
Optional Excursions
Castle & Gardens of Schweztingen $35* pp
Travel to Schwetzingen Castle and its internationally acclaimed gardens. A castle guide will lead you through the greenery. Spanning 178 acres, the spacious and ornate gardens welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, and feature a unique combination of French and English landscaping styles. As you embark on your guided exploration of the castle, be sure to take in the sights of the exquisitely maintained compound. Before leaving, enjoy some free time for souvenir shopping.
Lucerne2 nights - hotel info
Day4
Day5
Cross the ancient Kapellbrücke and ascend soaring Mount Pilatus
Breakfast
A professional local guide acquaints you with this Alpine town. Stroll down narrow streets and across the Kapellbrücke, a covered bridge whose history dates back to medieval days. The murals lining its walls are nearly identical to those painted in the 14th century. Be on the lookout for the colorful hand-painted façades along the cobbled streets of the Old Town. You’ll also view the captivating Löwendenkmal (Lion Monument), a sandstone statue commemorating Swiss Guards slain in the 1792. This afternoon, join an optional excursion up nearby Mount Pilatus via cable car for gorgeous views of the surrounding Alps.
Optional Excursions
Mount Pilatus $99* pp
This scenic excursion begins with a cruise on Lake Lucerne. After docking, ascend 7,000-foot Mount Pilatus on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway. Legend holds that the mountain was named for Pontius Pilate, blown here by the devil after the Crucifixion. From the peak, the views of the Alps are stunning; on a clear day, you can see for 200 miles. Toward the end of your trip, you’ll return to the base of the mountain via gondola. Please note: The cruise and cogwheel railway only run from mid-May through October. During the winter months, this excursion includes the cable car ride only. If the cogwheel railway is unavailable, you'll enjoy lunch on the mountain.
Innsbruck1 night - hotel info
Day6
Take a jaunt through tiny Liechtenstein and explore age-old Innsbruck
Breakfast, Dinner
Leaving Lucerne, travel into Liechtenstein, a tiny Alpine principality dating back to the Holy Roman Empire. Pass the royal family’s hilltop castle, still in use as a royal residence, as you visit Liechtenstein’s capital, Vaduz. Next, return to Austria, arriving later in the day in Innsbruck. Site of two winter Olympics and capital of the Austrian Tyrol, Innsbruck is a mix of centuries-old royal splendor and modern allure. On a guided tour, you’ll see the famed Golden Roof and the Triumphbogen, a triumphal arch built during by the Habsburg Empress Maria Theresa to commemorate a royal marriage. Dinner is included tonight.
Munich2 nights - hotel info
Day7
Behind the Bavarian mountains awaits the retreat of “Mad” King Ludwig
Breakfast, Dinner
Neuschwanstein, Nymphenburg Palace
Departing Innsbruck this morning, return to Germany. You’ll journey through the mountains of Bavaria to Neuschwanstein, retreat of “Mad” King Ludwig. View the castle’s turrets and towers as you approach along winding roads. Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle was modeled on this same fairy-tale design. As you tour the castle, you’ll see many examples of the young king’s eclectic tastes. Within its chambers are a stalactite grotto, artifacts of all kinds, and murals depicting his favorite scenes from Wagnerian operas. Arrive in Munich this afternoon for a guided tour of the city. A local guide introduces you to the landmarks of the cosmopolitan Bavarian capital. Follow the stately Ludwigstraße to the district of Schwabing, a favorite of students and artists, and on to the Olympic complex. You’ll also step inside Nymphenburg Palace, the summer home of the dukes, prince-electors and kings of Bavaria. Enjoy an included dinner this evening.
Day8
Prost! Raise your stein at Oktoberfest
Breakfast
Oktoberfest Tent
Join thousands of beer-lovers from all over the world as you help celebrate Munich’s Oktoberfest. Today, you’ll enjoy special admission to one of the city’s most largest beer tents. The tent also serves true Bavarian delicacies (not included) throughout the day to complement your drink.
Salzburg2 nights - hotel info
Day9
Sing along to the Sound of Music in Salzburg
Breakfast, Dinner
Mozart House
Leaving Munich this morning, cross the border into Austria and continue to the charming city of Salzburg. An included sightseeing tour introduces you to the city. Later, stop in Getreidegaße for a tour of the Mozart House and a walk through the Mirabell Gardens. Dinner is included this evening.
Day10
Surround yourself with the sounds of Mozart of snowy alpine scenes
Breakfast
Discover more of Salzburg on your own today. Alternatively, join our optional Eagle’s Nest & Salt Mines excursion for a look at the mines that brought Salzburg to prominence and a nearby mountaintop retreat built as a birthday present for Adolf Hiter. This evening, enjoy our optional Mozart Concert & Dinner excursion.
Optional Excursions
Eagle's Nest & Salt Mines $105* pp
Drive through the Bavarian Alps to the mountain village of Berchtesgaden, where you'll tour the 450-year-old salt mines that brought wealth to Bavaria and Salzburg. Continue to Obersalzberg, where a scenic bus ride along steep gorges offers gorgeous views of the snow-capped Alps. Here, you’ll visit the Eagle’s Nest, built as an Alpine retreat for Adolf Hitler's 50th birthday. Please note: The elevation of the Eagle’s Nest is approximately 4,500 feet, which may not be advisable for travelers with heart/lung problems or other altitude-related limitations. This optional is seasonal from mid-May through late October.
Optional Excursions
Mozart Concert & Dinner $115* pp
Step inside the 1,200-year-old St. Peter Stiftstkellar, the oldest restaurant in Europe located within St. Peter's Abbey, for an evening of fine dining and Mozart. Mozart composed over 600 works in his short life, and tonight, you'll hear his masterpieces as you sample local delicacies. Let the music carry you late into the night. Please note: This excursion requires advanced reservations and payment at least 20 days prior to departure.
Vienna3 nights - hotel info
Day11
Sip coffee, eat chocolate, repeat—indulge in the Viennese cafe culture
Breakfast, Dinner
Melk Monastery
Transfer to Vienna today, stopping en route in Melk, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the town’s Baroque abbey. Then continue your drive through the Austrian countryside to Vienna, the city of the waltz and enjoy an included dinner with your group. After hotel check-in, spend the rest of the day exploring Vienna on your own. Dinner is included tonight.
Day12
Savor delightful, delicious Vienna in all of its imperial majesty
Breakfast
Schönbrunn Palace
A local guide introduces you to Vienna this morning. Highlights include views of the Opera House, the majestic monuments of the Ringstraße and the Hofburg, the Habsburgs’ winter palace. Then visit the Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its intricately designed gardens. Your afternoon is free for a stroll through the Stadtpark or a horse-drawn carriage ride to St. Stephen’s Cathedral. This evening, opt to attend our Traditional Viennese Heurigen Evening. At this optional evening event, you’ll take a ride on the Prater Ferris Wheel and dine at a local restaurant where you’ll enjoy wine made by the people serving dinner.
Optional Excursions
Traditional Viennese Heurigen Evening $99* pp
After a brief drive, your first stop is Vienna's Prater Ferris Wheel. Take a breezy ride to the top, which offers a one-of-a-kind view of the city. Next, continue to the picturesque village of Grinzing. At a local restaurant, you'll indulge in a festive night of music and food. Dinner will feature dishes typical of traditional Austrian Heurigens, or wine taverns. During your meal, you'll have the chance to try some of the tavern's own locally made wine—the perfect addition to your cozy Old-World setting.
Day13
Cut a slice of Sachertorte or cruise the Danube to Bratislava
Breakfast
Enjoy today at leisure. You might wish to take a stroll through Vienna’s pedestrian zone, stopping at the Hotel Sacher for a taste of its world-famous Sachertorte, or view the elegant Lipizzaner horses in the Spanish Riding School. Alternatively, join an Map Key optional excursion to Bratislava for a guided tour of the Slovakian capital.
Optional Excursions
Bratislava $95* pp
Walk through Bratislava’s Old Town on a guided tour of the Slovakian capital. Stroll along cobblestone streets in the shadow of Brastislavsky Hrad, the hilltop 18th-century castle overlooking the Old Town. Then, tour the famous Hall of Mirrors inside the pink Primates’ Palace, where Napoleon and the Austrian emperor signed the Peace of Pressburg of 1805. Lunch is included. Please note: Depending on the day of the week, you may visit St. Martin's Cathedral instead of the palace.
Extend Your Stay
Add Budapest $299*
Truly a tale of two cities, Budapest is a merger of Buda and Pest, two towns separated by the river Danube. Now known as the Pearl of the Danube, Budapest is a peaceful yet progressive metropolis, offering plenty of shopping, as well as specialty Hungarian foods and wines.
Budapest2 nights - hotel info
Day1
Explore the city’s highs and lows, from Castle Hill to Heroes Square
Breakfast
Transfer to Budapest and check in to your hotel. The rest of your day is free to begin exploring Hungary’s largest city. Or, join our optional sightseeing excursion to acquaint yourself with the city.
Optional Excursions
Budapest Sightseeing $65* pp
Follow a local guide on tour of Budapest, a city divided by the Danube River into its old and new sections ("Buda" and "Pest"). Starting in Pest, pass by Heroes Square and St. Stephen's Basilica before you stop for a tour of Hungary's famous Gothic Parliament. Afterward, cross the Danube to the Buda side of the city. Here, you'll stop by Buda Castle and enter Matthias Church. After exploring this 14th-century church, take a short walk from Buda Castle to Fisherman's Bastian (please note that you'll be required to climb some stairs). From here, you'll be able to gaze across the river for incredible views of Pest and the Parliament building.
Day2
Take a walk behind the Iron Curtain
Breakfast
Spend the day exploring on your own or choose to join our optional excursion to explore Budapest's communist historic sites on a Walk Behind the Iron Curtain.
Optional Excursions
Budapest: A Walk Behind the Iron Curtain $69* pp
Discover the turbulent, tragic and heroic history of the communist period in Budapest on A Walk Behind the Iron Curtain. The first stop is the Parliament building, starting place of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, where damage from the Soviet invasion is still visible. Visit the nearby statue of Imre Nagy, Hungary’s Prime Minister during the revolution, who is an enduring symbol of freedom. Liberty Square is just a stroll away, home to the U.S. Embassy, a statue of Ronald Reagan and the only remaining monument to Communist troops. From St. Stephen’s Basilica, take the historical Metro Line 1 up the iconic Andrassy Ave. Stop for an included coffee amidst the the Neo-Renaissance splendor of Book Café, the regular meeting place of the intelligentsia during the Soviet occupation. End the day at the House of Terror, where you will take a guided tour through this chilling museum and moving monument to the victims of communism and fascism in Hungary.
About This Experience
Get to know Germanic Europe in all of its diversity, from high-flying mountain majesty to laid-back beer drinking. Travel back to the Renaissance in historic Heidelberg, home to Germany’s oldest university. Then, soak up the tranquility of the Alps as you make your way to the lakeside resort of Lucerne and the winter wonderland of Innsbruck. Trade mountainside serenity for the festivities in Munich, where you’ll raise a stein with the locals at the legendary Oktoberfest. And after savoring your fair share of beer, head to Salzburg to listen out for the sweet sounds of Mozart before ending your journey in the always-stylish Vienna.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
12 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily; 6 three-course dinners with wine or beer
Private deluxe motor coach
Multilingual Tour Director
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
Oktoberfest!
Storybook castles in Heidelberg & Neuschwanstein
Whimsical Glockenspiel, highlight of Marienplatz in Munich
The opulent Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna
Dark coffee & flaky pastries in bohemian cafes
Stunning mountain scenery at every turn
Overnight Flight1 night
Heidelberg Region2 nights - hotel info
Day2
Experience the allure of the Renaissance in Heidelberg
Breakfast (in flight), Dinner
A Go Ahead representative greets you at the airport in Frankfurt after you clear customs and then accompanies you to your hotel in the Heidelberg region. The rest of the day is free to relax. Meet your fellow travelers at an included dinner this evening.
Day3
Wander the historic halls of Germany’s oldest university
Breakfast
Heidelberg Castle
This morning, take a guided tour of Heidelberg. You’ll visit the city’s rose-colored hilltop castle, the grounds of the oldest university in Germany and Heidelberg’s elegant market square. This afternoon is free to spend as you like. You may wish to join an optional tour of Schwetzingen Castle and its 172 acres of gardens, which combine French formal and English landscape gardening styles.
Optional Excursions
Castle & Gardens of Schweztingen $35* pp
Travel to Schwetzingen Castle and its internationally acclaimed gardens. A castle guide will lead you through the greenery. Spanning 178 acres, the spacious and ornate gardens welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, and feature a unique combination of French and English landscaping styles. As you embark on your guided exploration of the castle, be sure to take in the sights of the exquisitely maintained compound. Before leaving, enjoy some free time for souvenir shopping.
Lucerne2 nights - hotel info
Day4
Day5
Cross the ancient Kapellbrücke and ascend soaring Mount Pilatus
Breakfast
Join a local guide and get acquainted with this Alpine town. Stroll down narrow streets and across the Kapellbrücke, a covered bridge whose history dates back to medieval days. The murals lining its walls are nearly identical to those painted in the 14th century. Be on the lookout for the colorful hand-painted façades along the cobbled streets of the Old Town. You’ll also view the captivating Löwendenkmal (Lion Monument), a sandstone statue commemorating Swiss Guards slain in 1792. This afternoon, join an optional excursion up nearby Mount Pilatus via cable car for gorgeous views of the surrounding Alps.
Optional Excursions
Mount Pilatus $99* pp
This scenic excursion begins with a cruise on Lake Lucerne. After docking, ascend 7,000-foot Mount Pilatus on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway. Legend holds that the mountain was named for Pontius Pilate, blown here by the devil after the Crucifixion. From the peak, the views of the Alps are stunning; on a clear day, you can see for 200 miles. Toward the end of your trip, you’ll return to the base of the mountain via gondola. Please note: The cruise and cogwheel railway only run from mid-May through October. During the winter months, this excursion includes the cable car ride only. If the cogwheel railway is unavailable, you'll enjoy lunch on the mountain.
Innsbruck1 night - hotel info
Day6
Take a jaunt through tiny Liechtenstein and explore age-old Innsbruck
Breakfast, Dinner
Leaving Lucerne, travel into Liechtenstein, a tiny Alpine principality dating back to the Holy Roman Empire. Pass the royal family’s hilltop castle, still in use as a royal residence, as you visit Liechtenstein’s capital, Vaduz. Next, travel to Austria, arriving later in the day in Innsbruck. The site of two winter Olympics and capital of the Austrian Tyrol, Innsbruck is a mix of centuries-old royal splendor and modern allure. On a guided tour, you’ll see the famed Golden Roof and the Triumphbogen, a triumphal arch built by the Habsburg Empress Maria Theresa to commemorate a royal marriage. Dinner is included tonight.
Munich2 nights - hotel info
Day7
Behind the Bavarian mountains awaits the retreat of “Mad” King Ludwig
Breakfast, Dinner
Neuschwanstein, Nymphenburg Palace
Departing Innsbruck this morning, return to Germany. You’ll journey through the mountains of Bavaria to Neuschwanstein, the fairytale retreat of “Mad” King Ludwig. As you tour the castle, you’ll see many examples of the young king’s eclectic tastes. Within its chambers are a stalactite grotto, artifacts of all kinds and murals depicting Ludwig’s favorite scenes from Wagnerian operas. Arrive in Munich this afternoon for a guided tour of the city. A local guide introduces you to the landmarks of the cosmopolitan Bavarian capital. Follow the stately Ludwigstraße to the district of Schwabing, a favorite of students and artists, and on to the Olympic complex. You’ll also step inside Nymphenburg Palace, the summer home of the dukes, prince-electors and kings of Bavaria. Enjoy an included dinner this evening.
Day8
Prost! Raise your stein at Oktoberfest
Breakfast
Oktoberfest Tent
Join thousands of beer-lovers from all over the world as you help celebrate Munich’s Oktoberfest. Today, you’ll enjoy special admission to one of the city’s largest beer tents. The tent also serves true Bavarian delicacies (not included) throughout the day to complement your drink.
Salzburg2 nights - hotel info
Day9
Sing along to the Sound of Music in Salzburg
Breakfast, Dinner
Mozart House
Leaving Munich this morning, cross the border into Austria and continue to the charming city of Salzburg, where you’ll embark on a guided sightseeing tour. Later, stop in Getreidegaße for a tour of the Mozart House and a walk through the Mirabell Gardens. Dinner is included this evening.
Day10
Surround yourself with the sounds of Mozart of snowy alpine scenes
Breakfast
Discover more of Salzburg on your own today. Alternatively, join our optional Eagle’s Nest & Salt Mines excursion for a look at the mines that brought Salzburg to prominence and a nearby mountaintop retreat built as a birthday present for Adolf Hiter. This evening, enjoy our optional Mozart Concert & Dinner excursion.
Optional Excursions
Eagle's Nest & Salt Mines $105* pp
Drive through the Bavarian Alps to the mountain village of Berchtesgaden, where you'll tour the 450-year-old salt mines that brought wealth to Bavaria and Salzburg. Continue to Obersalzberg, where a scenic bus ride along steep gorges offers gorgeous views of the snow-capped Alps. Here, you’ll visit the Eagle’s Nest, built as an Alpine retreat for Adolf Hitler's 50th birthday. Please note: The elevation of the Eagle’s Nest is approximately 4,500 feet, which may not be advisable for travelers with heart/lung problems or other altitude-related limitations. This optional is seasonal from mid-May through late October.
Optional Excursions
Mozart Concert & Dinner $115* pp
Step inside the 1,200-year-old St. Peter Stiftstkellar, the oldest restaurant in Europe located within St. Peter's Abbey, for an evening of fine dining and Mozart. Mozart composed over 600 works in his short life, and tonight, you'll hear his masterpieces as you sample local delicacies. Let the music carry you late into the night. Please note: This excursion requires advanced reservations and payment at least 20 days prior to departure.
Vienna3 nights - hotel info
Day11
Sip coffee, eat chocolate, repeat—indulge in the Viennese cafe culture
Breakfast, Dinner
Melk Monastery
Transfer to Vienna today, stopping en route in Melk, where you’ll take a guided tour of the town’s Baroque abbey. Then, continue your drive through the Austrian countryside to Vienna, the city of he waltz, and enjoy an included dinner with your group.
Day12
Savor delightful, delicious Vienna in all of its imperial majesty
Breakfast
A local guide introduces you to Vienna this morning. Highlights include the Opera House, the majestic monuments of the Ringstraße and the Hofburg, the Habsburgs’ winter palace. Then, travel to Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its intricately designed gardens. Your afternoon is free for a stroll through the Stadtpark or a horse-drawn carriage ride to St. Stephen’s Cathedral. This evening, opt to attend our Traditional Viennese Heurigen Evening. At this optional evening event, you’ll take a ride on the Prater Ferris Wheel and dine at a local restaurant where you’ll enjoy wine made by the people serving dinner.
Optional Excursions
Traditional Viennese Heurigen Evening $99* pp
After a brief drive, your first stop is Vienna's Prater Ferris Wheel. Take a breezy ride to the top, which offers a one-of-a-kind view of the city. Next, continue to the picturesque village of Grinzing. At a local restaurant, you'll indulge in a festive night of music and food. Dinner will feature dishes typical of traditional Austrian Heurigens, or wine taverns. During your meal, you'll have the chance to try some of the tavern's own locally made wine—the perfect addition to your cozy Old-World setting.
Day13
Cut a slice of Sachertorte or cruise the Danube to Bratislava
Breakfast
Enjoy a full day to yourself. You might wish to take a stroll through Vienna’s pedestrian zone, stopping at the Hotel Sacher for a taste of its world-famous Sachertorte, or view the elegant Lipizzaner horses in the Spanish Riding School. Alternatively, join an optional excursion to Bratislava for a guided tour of the Slovakian capital.
Optional Excursions
Bratislava $95* pp
Walk through Bratislava’s Old Town on a guided tour of the Slovakian capital. Stroll along cobblestone streets in the shadow of Brastislavsky Hrad, the hilltop 18th-century castle overlooking the Old Town. Then, tour the famous Hall of Mirrors inside the pink Primates’ Palace, where Napoleon and the Austrian emperor signed the Peace of Pressburg of 1805. Lunch is included. Please note: Depending on the day of the week, you may visit St. Martin's Cathedral instead of the palace.
Extend Your Stay
Add Budapest $329*
Truly a tale of two cities, Budapest is a merger of Buda and Pest, two towns separated by the river Danube. Now known as the Pearl of the Danube, Budapest is a peaceful yet progressive metropolis, offering plenty of shopping, as well as specialty Hungarian foods and wines.
Budapest2 nights - hotel info
Day1
Explore the city’s highs and lows, from Castle Hill to Heroes Square
Breakfast
Transfer to Budapest and check in to your hotel. A local guide shows off the major landmarks of both Buda and Pest. Trace the stormy history of this fiercely independent nation on your stop at Heroes Square. Tour the lavishly decorated interior of the Parliament building, modeled after London’s Houses of Parliament. Then, cross the Danube and arrive in Buda, where you’ll ascend imposing Castle Hill. The castle has witnessed several invasions, the most recent having occurred during World War II. After taking in the breathtaking views from Fisherman’s Bastion, visit the medieval Matthias Church, once the site of Hapsburg coronations.
Day2
Take a walk behind the Iron Curtain
Breakfast
During your free day in Budapest, continue your exploration of the city. You might choose to browse through the shops on Budapest’s sophisticated pedestrian shopping streets, take a short journey outside of the city to the Vadaskert (Game Park) or tour the Jewish Museum. You may also opt to explore Budapest’s communist legacy on our Walk Behind the Iron Curtain optional excursion.
Optional Excursions
Budapest: A Walk Behind the Iron Curtain $69* pp
Discover the turbulent, tragic and heroic history of the communist period in Budapest on A Walk Behind the Iron Curtain. The first stop is the Parliament building, starting place of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, where damage from the Soviet invasion is still visible. Visit the nearby statue of Imre Nagy, Hungary’s Prime Minister during the revolution, who is an enduring symbol of freedom. Liberty Square is just a stroll away, home to the U.S. Embassy, a statue of Ronald Reagan and the only remaining monument to Communist troops. From St. Stephen’s Basilica, take the historical Metro Line 1 up the iconic Andrassy Ave. Stop for an included coffee amidst the the Neo-Renaissance splendor of Book Café, the regular meeting place of the intelligentsia during the Soviet occupation. End the day at the House of Terror, where you will take a guided tour through this chilling museum and moving monument to the victims of communism and fascism in Hungary.
Passport & Visa
This itinerary includes the following countries: Austria, Switzerland, Germany, the principality of Liechtenstein (on transfer), and Hungary (on extension). In order to enter these countries, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport. The expiration date must extend at least six months beyond the date of your return home. No visa is required for U.S. or Canadian citizens. If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
Health
There are no major health risks associated with traveling on this tour. Be aware of high-altitude conditions in the region. The elevation of Mount Pilatus is 7,000 feet. Be sure to check with your health care provider for the latest updates and overseas travel requirements.
Transportation / Walking on tour
Round-trip flights arrive in Frankfurt and depart from Vienna (or Budapest on the extension). Included transportation on your tour is by private motor coach. In your free time, you may wish to explore the main cities by public transportation. Munich’s transportation system (MVV) is topnotch, an all-inclusive combination of trams, buses, U-bahn (underground) and S-bahn (above ground). Purchase tickets from newspaper stands, vending machines or the drivers. Most of the major attractions lie within the inner-city blue zone. Vienna has one of Europe’s most efficient transportation systems. You can purchase tickets in singles or in bulk for S-bahn, U-bahn, tram and bus lines. The waiting time for trains and subways is usually no more than five to 10 minutes.
Clothing & Packing Tips
To ensure you’re comfortable while out exploring, we recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered. For sightseeing, we suggest bringing a sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers, as well as a lightweight sports jacket or rainwear. If you’re planning a visit to a high-end restaurant or performance, you may also want to bring dressier attire. Also, please remember that it’s preferable to avoid showing bare legs or shoulders during visits to churches or other religious sites (entrance may be denied on this basis).
Baggage Allowance
Airlines have varying weight restrictions on luggage. Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline’s checked baggage policies. Bear in mind that your luggage will probably weigh more on your return trip due to souvenir shopping. We allow only one suitcase per person. One carry-on bag is also permitted, provided that it does not exceed 45 inches (length + width + height). There may be times when you will have to handle your own bags, and you’ll find that lightweight luggage provides a distinct advantage. Make sure you label your baggage and carry valuables, medication and documents in your carry-on luggage.
Cuisine
In Austria, thick soups of paprika and onion, veal, beef and venison with cranberries are popular, as is the renowned Wiener Schnitzel. Fish-lovers will find wild trout, roast carp and crayfish. Desserts are perhaps the most memorable including: strudels made with all kinds of fruit and nuts, soufflés and elegant chocolate cakes such as the world-famous Sachertorte. Swiss food, influenced by surrounding countries, is varied and sophisticated. The most famous local dish is fondue, made from molten cheese, flavored with wine, garlic and liquor, into which pieces of skewered bread are dipped. Raclette is another delicious cooked cheese dish, served with roasted or boiled potatoes, air-dried beef and pickled onions. Sausages, breaded veal fillets and freshwater fish are also popular. Swiss dairy products are among the world’s finest, and full-cream milk is the essential ingredient for the exceptionally good chocolate produced here. German food is hearty and substantial. Among the specialties are dumpling stews and sauerkraut cabbage, tasty thick sausages and smoked cheeses, dark breads and chocolate cakes. Bavaria produces some of the world’s purest beers, while white German wines are exceptionally good.
Currency
The euro (in Austria and Germany) and the Swiss franc are the currencies you’ll be using on your tour. Better rates of exchange are usually available in your destination countries, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive. We advise that you take credit cards, ATM/bank cards and traveler’s checks, which can be exchanged for cash at local banks, as needed. We suggest informing your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so they don’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
Tipping
At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity. We recommend tipping in your tour country’s currency the equivalent of $3USD/CAD per day for your driver and $6USD/CAD to $9USD/CAD per day for your Tour Director. If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $1USD/CAD per local guide. Tips can only be paid in cash. Please keep current currency rates in mind when tipping.
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trip of a lifetime
To begin with, the flight was late by 2 hours, but there was a representative there to make sure I got to the right place at the right time, lol. The tour bus had apparently left so travelled to Mannheim via Taxi. A good way to go, at least i did not get lost. Each step of the way was truly remarkable, the people I met on the tour were awesome. I shall always remember each and every one of them. They helped me along the way, either with a smile, a pat on the back, encouragement, laughter, and above all friendship. I truly believe that , a friend is a friend where ever you may be , a friend is a friend between you and me. that is how it worked out, we became friends for a moment in time, but, I think it will be along time before any of us forget this remarkable trip. The walking was unbelievabel, but, good for the body and mind. The churches, the hotels, the scenery, the food, everything was well worth this trip. If I were able to remember what I wote for my review I would add everything. It is hightly rec ommended that people see this part of the world, no matter what, you will be glad that you did. I will add all of the 1978 pictures I took of the trip, beleive me they are well worth seeing. Gina Willman
Oktoberfest
I was very pleased with this tour. The dirctor Margaret Ponton was just great. The only thing I was not that impressed with were the meals offered on our first night at each hotel. I was expecting traditional fare and most nights it was some kind of chicken and not that good. I liked having a guided tour of each city first and then some free time later to wander about at my own pace to revisit what I was interested in at a slower pace and to explore on my own. There were 27 people on this tour-a managble group. I don't think I would like a much larger group. We were able to really get to know our fellow travelers with this size group. I only took the Pilatis extra tour but I must say it was well worth the extra money. I would certainly recommend this tour to others.
What a BLAST!!! Trip of a life time for both of us
Margaret was the best guide we have ever had. She made the whole group feel welcome. She had the bus laughing all the time. She was very knowledgeable about all of the places we went. The amount of sights we saw and people we met will be in our memories forever. All of the cities we visited were amazing. We both have experienced memories of a lifetime. We went for our 25th Wedding anniversary and we are very glad we picked this trip, and Go Ahead Tours. The only issue we had on the trip was recovering from Oktoberfest. The beer and food were unbelievable. All of the people were laughing and smiling throughout the evening, it was a blast. We would highly recommend this trip. I would suggest looking at all of the different activities available. We did quite a lot in a short period. Thanks Margaret for making this a trip of a lifetime. Thanks for the memories, Frances
Trip of a life time!! Great memories
Margaret was the best guide we have ever had. She made the whole group feel welcome. She had the bus laughing all the time. The amount of sights we saw and people we met will be in our memories forever. All of the cities we visited were amazing. We both have experienced memories of a lifetime. We went for our 25th Wedding anniversary and we are very glad we picked this trip, and Go Ahead Tours. The only issue we had on the trip was recovering from Oktoberfest. The beer and food were unbelievable. All of the people were laughing and smiling throughout the evening, it was a blast. We would highly recommend this trip. I would suggest looking at all of the different activities available. We did quite a lot in a short period. Thanks Margaret for making this a trip of a lifetime. Thanks for the memories, Mark
A beautiful, fabulous tour
I really enjoyed the wonderful scenery and great places visited on this tour. I would recommend taking all the optional tours especially Mount Pilatus and the Eagles' Nest/Berchtesgaden tour. This tour offers many great historical sites and culture the whole family will enjoy. I experienced musicians playing their best in a room that Mozart had performed a concert in on a tour that our tour guide recommended as an optional tour. It was a great performance. This tour is a Wow!. Great job Go Ahead.
Octoberfest 2011
Great trip, easy and had great guides and fantastic Tour Director who was very knowledgable and entertaining.
Oktoberfest Tour 2011
This Oktoberfest tour was very nice and loads of fun. We had a great tour direct Margaret who was a ton of fun and a bus driver that never let us down and worked his heart out to keep us on schedule which he did every day. The weather was great and the people were fantastic. My only word of caution is that the hotel rooms were very small and no Air Conditioning in most of them and when we went it was unseasonably warm. When we opened the windows it was so noisy we could not sleep. I recommend maybe charging more and giving us better hotels. Other than that the food was great and the tour was exceptional. If you don't like walking and climbing stairs this trip is not for you because there was a ton of both.
Great OctoberFest 2011 Tour
I was very impressed at our tour specifically because our tour director took us to a lot of places, of course this was also because we bought additional land tours. But the land tours were worth it. Our tour director, Constantin, was an excellent tour guide since he always acquainted us with the history and culture of each city we were visiting while on route to that city. He also picked very good local guides while in that particular city. He was very punctual and accommodating. Although we didn't have enough free time for ourselves, we saw a lot! The hotels we stayed in were good hotels except for one which was an older hotel, but in a very convenient location. The breakfasts and dinners which were included were very good. Our bus driver, Alex, although very quiet was an excellent driver and very punctual and always available when we needed him. There were 25 of us on this tour. I think this number of people were just the right number because we weren't crowding on the bus and we got to be good acquaintances with each one. I would definitely recommend Go Ahead Tours to others and would use them again in my future travel plans hopefully in the next couple of years. Thank you Go Ahead. Millie
Great, historically significant trip
We were able to add Dachau to the trip sites, while the tour director added a wine tasting with home made traditional German dinner which was well worth the money. I saw and learned all that I was interested in. All in all a great trip. My only negative is that there was so much gravy. That's a personal issue though.
new tour
we had a nice tour,as with most things, somethings good have been skipped while others were very interesting and well worth while. with 25 people it is hard to please everyone,yet our guide tried to please those that were say less traveled or comfortable being on thier own anywhere. we had more fun alone than with the group, as we love to experiance the local places and people with out having our hand held, or being forced to pay much more just to have the guide walk us three blocks to dinner., or ride a boat down a river.
