Oktoberfest The Germanic Experience
Oktoberfest The Germanic Experience
Oktoberfest The Germanic Experience
11 Days Starting in Berlin and ending in Vienna
Visiting: Berlin, Dresden, Munich, Salzburg, Berchtesgaden, Vienna
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Discover the Germanic awe of the world’s longest running beer festival at Oktoberfest in Munich, with exclusive seating in the Ochsenbraterei Tent—your very own VIP beer hall among a sea of six million festival goers. Meet Patrick von Ritchthofen, a direct descendant of the Red Baron, before journeying across the Austrian border for a Danube River Cruise, sailing past the mountainside vineyards and lush green surrounds of the Wachau Valley. After touring Berlin’s iconic sights, everything sparkles at a once-in-a-lifetime Dresden dinner, hosted at the King of Saxony’s former summer residence. Enjoy a meal of delicious abundance at the Schloss Hotel Dresden-Pillnitz, a baroque castle complex originally built for the King Augustus II in 1720.
Top Rated Highlights
- Visit the world famous Oktoberfest in Munich • BMW Museum in Munich • The imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress with Funicular ride in Salzburg • Hitler’s notorious “Eagle’s Nest” in Berchtesgaden • River Cruise along the stunning Wachau Valley • Wachau style wine tasting • Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna.
- Berlin: You Local Expert provides a tour of this vibrant city. Drive along the Ku'Damm, passing the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church and through Tiergarten to the Reichstag building. See the Brandenburg Gate, State Opera House and visit Alexanderplatz.
- Dresden: Your guided tour with a Local Expert shows you the Frauenkirche, the colossal 'Procession of the Dukes' mosaic, the cathedral, Semper Opera House and Zwinger Palace. You'll also learn about the traditional German Christmas Pyramids.
- Nuremberg: Nuremburg is steeped in history and famous for its magnificent landmarks including the imperial castle and the old walled town. Although much of the city was destroyed in WWII, the medieval parts of the old town have been faithfully reconstructed. The City is also famous for the Nuremburg Trials, carried out between 1945 and 1949.
- Munich: Join this giant and unforgettable celebration of great local beers – in fact over seven million liters of beer get consumed each year at Oktoberfest. Revelers also munch their way through thousands of giant sausages and pretzels! Lose yourself in the colorful parades, enjoy fairground rides and admire those in traditional Bavarian costume.
- Salzburg: This impressive fortress sits high above the rooftops of Salzburg’s Baroque historical district, offering stunning 360° views of the city. The largest fully preserved castle in Central Europe, roam the magnificent halls and walls, and admire intricate artworks.
- Salzburg: Join your Local Expert to visit the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace and Residence Square - both locations used in 'The Sound of Music.' You will also see the imposing fortress, the immense cathedral and Mozart's birthplace on the lively Getreidegasse.
- : Admire breathtaking views on a scenic drive through the stunning Berchtesgaden countryside, alongside snow capped peaks and lush green meadows. Visit the picturesque Pilgrimage church, Maria Gern Chapel, a pristine white architectural gem, perched on the hillside.
- Vienna: Stroll through the 18th century Crown Prince Garden and manicured grounds with your Local Expert.
Authentic Dining
Munich: Join special guest Patrick von Ritchthofen, a direct descendant of Manfred von Ritchthofen, otherwise known as ‘The Red Baron’, for an unforgettable conversation and a Dinner.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Berlin
Location: Berlin
Accommodation: PULLMAN BERLIN SCHWEIZERHOF
Accommodation Name: PULLMAN BERLIN SCHWEIZERHOF
Meals Included: Dinner
On arrival at Berlin’s Brandenburg Airport, transfers leave for the hotel at 10:30. Your time is yours to explore, perhaps visit nearby Check Point Charlie - once the best-known Berlin Wall crossing between East and West Berlin during the Cold War. This evening at 17:30, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner with wine.
Day 2: The Spirit Of Berlin
Location: Berlin
Accommodation Name: PULLMAN BERLIN SCHWEIZERHOF
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join a Local Expert to see some of Berlin's many highlights. Travel along the Ku'Damm past the Memorial Church. Drive through the Tiergarten to see Norman Foster’s glass dome that crowns the reconstructed Reichstag building. Continue with a visit to the Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of the reunification, and down along the Unter den Linden, past the Humboldt University and State Opera. Stop on Museum Island before enjoying some time at leisure in this once divided city. Perhaps visit the KaDeWe department store - the shopping centre of West Berlin which during 40 years of division, became the shop window of the West.
Day 3: Dresden, A Baroque Phoenix On The Elbe
Location: Berlin, Dresden
Accommodation Name: Bilderberg Bellevue Hotel, Dresden.
Meals Included: Breakfast
In Dresden, join your Local Expert to see the splendours of the city. From the Frauenkirche, which has risen again from the destruction of World War II, walk past ‘The Procession of the Princes', a mosaic of colossal proportions on the Royal Palace facade. See the huge cathedral, Semper Opera House and Baroque Zwinger Palace. Although the town was heavily bombed during World War II, it remains a treasure trove of early German history and baroque architecture.
Day 4: Journey To Munich
Location: Munich
Meals Included: Breakfast
In Nuremberg witness the charming blend of stone and timbered dwellings in the Old Town as well as the massive ramparts. Perhaps shop for delicious Lebkuchen (gingerbread)? Continue across the Danube to Munich, the capital of the state of Bavaria, lying near the foot of the German Alps. At night, perhaps consider dinner at one of Munich’s famous ‘Bier Kellers’?
Day 5: Munich And Oktoberfest
Location: Munich
Accommodation Name: Hilton Munich Park Hotel, Munich.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Be welcomed into fun loving Munich for an orientation tour which shows you the Feldernhalle on the Odeonsplatz, the Palace of the Dukes of Wittelsbach, English Garden, Hofbrauhaus, St Peters Church and the famous Marienplatz. Munich hosts the most famous beer festival in the world – Oktoberfest! The beer festival has been running since 1810 and now sees over 6 million visitors each year. This afternoon enjoy the festival atmosphere, amusement rides, entertainment, beer and local Bavarian specialities for dinner! With tables reserved, your dedicated host will ensure a memorable time is had by all.
Day 6: Explore Munich Relaxed Start
Location: Munich
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After a relaxed start, take the opportunity to visit Schloss Nymphenburg with its Baroque gardens. In the evening, join special guest - Patrick von Richthofen, a descendent of Manfred von Richthofen otherwise known as ‘The Red Baron’, for an unforgettable dinner.
Day 7: Journey To Salzburg
Location: Salzburg
Meals Included: Breakfast
A short drive over the Austrian border leads to Salzburg, steeped in musical history. A Local Expert will show you the gardens of the Mirabell Palace, the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress, the cathedral in the old town, Mozart’s birthplace, and locations that brought the city alive with the Sound of Music.
Day 8: Explore Berchtesgaden
Location: Berchtesgaden
Accommodation: ARCOTEL Castellani, Salzburg
Accommodation Name: ARCOTEL Castellani, Salzburg
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our day trip today takes us into the heart of Alpine Bavaria. Drive over the German border, past picturesque farmhouses and villages to Obersalzberg. Nearly 75 years ago, this small mountain paradise was the summer playground for top Nazi brass. Take a scenic drive up the mountain to Hitler’s notorious “Eagle’s Nest”, used as a restaurant since the 1950’s. From here you can enjoy splendid views through the arches up to the “Hohen Goll” and across the snow-capped peaks. Soak up the picturesque scenery of the region as we continue past hill tops and mountain villages. Stop at the Maria Gern Church for a look inside, before looping back to Salzburg.
Day 9: Journey To Vienna
Location: Vienna
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the Austrian border and head east through the rolling countryside to stop in the shadow of the great Monastery of Melk. Join a river cruise along the stunning Wachau Valley, where the Danube meanders below forested cliffs, topped with picturesque churches and ruined castles. Pass the fortress of Dürnstein, where Richard the Lionheart languished in prison until discovered by his faithful Welsh minstrel, then alight beneath the vine laden cliffs of Krems. Immerse yourself in the vineyards and cellars of the local winery to learn about and sample the unique Wachau style wine. Finally, we head for the Austrian capital, and to our hotel.
Day 10: Discover Vienna
Location: Vienna
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Much of Vienna’s present day charm is due to the long reign of the Habsburgs, so in the morning, join a Local Expert for a guided visit of Maria Theresa’s Schönbrunn Palace and formal gardens. Then get your camera ready for a drive around the famous Ring Road. This grand boulevard, built along the lines of the old city walls, showcases many of the capital’s architectural masterpieces, including the Opera House, magnificent Hofburg Imperial Residence and Parliament Building. As night falls, experience an extraordinary concert of Viennese classical music. The best-loved works of Johann Strauss and Mozart, performed by highly acclaimed soloists and dancers, are combined with a delicious meal of traditional Austrian fare, with drinks included.
Day 11: Auf Wiedersehen Vienna
Location: Vienna
Meals Included: Breakfast
A transfer arrives at Vienna airport at 08.00
What's Included
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Guided Sightseeing Tours
Enjoy guided sightseeing tours with Local Experts in Berlin, Dresden, Salzburg, and Vienna.
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Orientation Tours
Participate in orientation tours of Nuremberg and Munich.
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Scenic Drives
Experience breathtaking scenic drives through the Berchtesgaden countryside to Maria Gern chapel.
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River Cruise
Join a river cruise along the stunning Wachau Valley.
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Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the PULLMAN BERLIN SCHWEIZERHOF in Berlin and ARCOTEL Castellani in Salzburg.
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Authentic Dining
Enjoy a special dinner with Patrick von Richthofen, a descendant of 'The Red Baron', in Munich.
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Dining Summary
Includes 4 Dinners with Wine and 10 Breakfasts.
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Insight Experiences
Indulge in a magical concert of classic Viennese music and dance, followed by a traditional Austrian dinner.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Flights
International and domestic flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.
Mode of Transport
Enjoy guided sightseeing tours with Local Experts in Berlin, Dresden, Salzburg, and Vienna, along with orientation tours of Nuremberg and Munich. Experience breathtaking scenic drives through the Berchtesgaden countryside and a river cruise along the stunning Wachau Valley.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the PULLMAN BERLIN SCHWEIZERHOF in Berlin and ARCOTEL Castellani in Salzburg, offering a blend of modern amenities and classic charm for a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration.
Dining Summary
4 Dinner with Wine (DW)10 Breakfast (B)
Insight Experiences
Vienna: Indulge your senses with a magical concert of classic Viennese music and dance. Enjoy a delicious traditional Austrian dinner, then watch the works of Mozart and Strauss come to life.
Summary
Guided sightseeing tour with Local Expert in Berlin, Dresden, Salzburg and Vienna • Orientation tour of Nuremberg and Munich.Breathtaking scenic drive through Berchtesgaden countryside to Maria Gern chapel.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experience is offered during the Munich visit?
During the Munich visit, you will have the opportunity to join special guest Patrick von Richthofen, a direct descendant of Manfred von Richthofen, known as 'The Red Baron', for an unforgettable conversation and dinner.
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What can I expect during the river cruise in the Wachau Valley?
During the river cruise along the Wachau Valley, you will pass by forested cliffs, picturesque churches, and ruined castles. You will also see the fortress of Dürnstein, where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned, and enjoy a wine tasting experience in the local vineyards.
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What historical sites will be visited in Berlin?
In Berlin, you will visit several historical sites including the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag building, and the Memorial Church. You will also drive through the Tiergarten and see the State Opera House and Alexanderplatz.
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What is included in the guided sightseeing tours?
The guided sightseeing tours include visits with Local Experts in Berlin, Dresden, Salzburg, and Vienna, where you will explore key historical and cultural landmarks in each city.
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What is the significance of the Eagle's Nest in Berchtesgaden?
The Eagle's Nest in Berchtesgaden was a summer retreat for top Nazi officials and is now a restaurant offering splendid views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and picturesque scenery.
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What kind of dining experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes authentic dining experiences such as a special dinner with Patrick von Richthofen in Munich and a traditional Austrian dinner accompanied by a concert of Viennese classical music in Vienna.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
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