Magical Christmas Markets of Austria and Germany
Magical Christmas Markets of Austria and Germany
8 Days Starting in Innsbruck, Austria and ending in Munich, Germany
Visiting: Innsbruck, Salzburg, Oberammergau, Munich
Tour operator:
Tour code:
15968
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a festive journey through the enchanting Christmas markets of Austria and Germany. This magical tour begins in the alpine town of Innsbruck, where you'll spend five nights exploring the heart of the mountains. Experience the charm of Seefeld with a horse-drawn carriage ride and a taste of schnapps, and learn the art of making traditional strudel. Discover the baroque beauty of Salzburg, home to Mozart and the iconic "Do-Re-Mi" steps. In Oberammergau, stroll through a picturesque Bavarian village and tour the opulent Linderhof Palace. Conclude your adventure in Munich, where you can marvel at the Glockenspiel and indulge in the festive atmosphere of one of Europe's largest Christmas markets. Delight in culinary experiences, including dinner at the historic St. Peter's Restaurant, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Christkindlesmarkt. This tour promises a heartwarming holiday experience filled with culture, history, and seasonal cheer.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Overnight Flight
Location: Innsbruck
Accommodation Name: Hotel Innsbruck
You’re on your way to uncover the unique charms of Austria and Germany and the incredible Christkindlesmarkt (Christmas market)!
Day 2 : Innsbruck, Austria - Tour Begins
Location: Innsbruck
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to the town of Innsbruck, capital of the Alps. Spend the next five nights nestled in the heart of the mountains. Tonight, accompany your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner to celebrate your arrival in Austria.
Day 3 : Innsbruck - Seefeld - Innsbruck
Location: Innsbruck
Accommodation Name: Hotel
This morning, it’s your choice! Walk through the charming streets of Innsbruck on a locally guided tour and take in landmarks such as the Golden Roof -OR- 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. Return by train to Innsbruck.
Day 4 : Innsbruck - Salzburg - Innsbruck
Location: Salzburg
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
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 Old City and the famous thoroughfare of Mozart’s birthplace, and continue towards Mirabell Gardens* and the iconic “Do-Re-Mi steps” from The Sound of Music. Head out to enjoy a free afternoon with the locals, affectionately known as “Salzburgers.” Do some treasure hunting at any of six Christmas markets. Your day concludes at St. Peter’s Skiftskeller, the oldest continuously-serving restaurant in Europe. Inside this centuries-old gem, indulge in traditional food.
Day 5 : Innsbruck
Location: Innsbruck
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Innsbruck. Go treasure hunting at 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 gluhwein and stollen, while chestnuts roast on open fires. Perhaps you’ll enjoy an optional Tyrolean dinner and folklore show this evening.
Day 6 : Innsbruck - Oberammergau, Germany - Innsbruck, Austria
Location: Oberammergau
Accommodation Name: Mövenpick Hotel Munich Airport
Meals Included: Lunch
Tour Linderhof Palace, the only palace - out of three - that King Ludwig II lived to see completed. Walk the extraordinary halls that were modeled 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.
Day 7 : Innsbruck - Munich, Germany
Location: Munich
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Wilkommen 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 bier 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.
Day 8 : Munich - Tour Ends
Location: Munich
Your tour comes to a close today.
What's Included
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Welcome Dinner
Enjoy a welcome dinner with fellow travelers upon arrival in Austria.
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Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
Experience a horse-drawn carriage ride in Seefeld with a taste of schnapps.
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Strudel Demonstration
Participate in an interactive demonstration of how to make and eat traditional strudel.
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Dinner at St. Peter's Restaurant
Delight in dinner at the 1,200-year-old St. Peter's Restaurant, Austria's oldest.
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Guided Tour of Linderhof Palace
Tour the extraordinary halls of Linderhof Palace with an expert guide.
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Munich City Tour
Join a local guide on a tour of Munich, passing by famous sights such as the Royal Square and Parliament Building.
What's Not Included
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Optional Tyrolean Dinner and Folklore Show
The optional Tyrolean dinner and folklore show in Innsbruck is not included in the base tour package.
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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 to be purchased separately.
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Flights
International and domestic flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.
Experiences
Experience the 600-year-old holiday tradition of the Christkindlesmarkt.Unwind and shop for handmade crafts in the heart of the Alps.Venture by train to Seefeld for a horse-drawn carriage ride and a taste of schnapps.
Options
Innsbruck: Tyrolean Dinner & Folklore Show Experience the Tyrolean culture of Austria during a traditional dinner and show in Innsbruck. In Tyrol, a region of Austria that dates back millennia, cultural heritage is held strong and passed from generation to generation. During a three-course dinner, taste culinary specialties of the region. Then, witness the rich musical traditional of mountainous Austria during a Tyrolean folklore show hosted by a locally well-known musical family. The lively show will take you back in time through music, dance, and excitement. Duration approximately 3 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 1 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
Dinner will begin at 7:00 p.m. The show will follow from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Culinaries
Experience a strudel demonstration and learn the history behind the traditional dessert.Delight in dinner at the 1,200-year-old St. Peter's Restaurant, Austria's oldest.
Must See
Visit the picture-perfect Bavarian Alpine village of Oberammergau.Tour Munich to see the Glockenspiel and Olympic Park.Walk the extraordinary halls of Linderhof Palace.
Choice Highlights
Innsbruck This is the capital of the state of Tyrol in the Alps of western Austria. Innsbruck is famous as a winter sports center and was the site of the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics. It is beautifully situated in the valley of the Inn River, and its most famous sights are the Golden Roof (a structure made from 2,800 gilded copper tiles that was added in 1500 to a building to celebrate the marriage of Emperor Maximilian I), the beautifully preserved city center with buildings covered in traditional Christmas decorations in the season, and the surrounding mountains.
Innsbruck Cultural City Tour or Museum of Tyrolean Heritage Today in Innsbruck, it's your choice! Join a local guide as you discover the city's history, culture and popular attractions including Maria Theresien Strasse, the Hofburg Palace, and the "Golden Roof" -OR- visit the Museum of Tyrolean Regional Heritage, getting a glimpse into this historic region through traditional costumes and heritage.
Innsbruck Cultural City Tour
Activity Level: 2
Take a scenic drive through Innsbruck to the ski jump at Bergen Isel to view the ski jump from the outside. Drive along Maria Theresien Street and enjoy views of the Imperial Palace and Inn Bridge. Travelers will enjoy listening to a history presentation as they walk into the Old City and into St. Jacob's Cathedral, Hofburg Palace courtyard, Golden Roof, and the Golden Eagle restaurant.
Museum of Tyrolean Heritage
Activity Level: 2
Travelers will enjoy the museum on their own.
Seefeld Perched on a plateau high in the Alps is the charming Tyrolean town of Seefeld. Reminiscent of a fairy-tale Christmas village, this magical place offers a quintessential Austrian wintertime experience in one of the world's greatest ski resorts. The perfect location for snow sports, it has proudly hosted several Olympic and World Ski Championship competitions. It is particularly festive during the holiday season and is an ideal time to take in the crisp mountain air, epic views of villages covered in a white blanket of snow and the spectacular mountain scenery. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in this Alpine setting with miles of walking trails, lakes, fine shopping, dining possibilities and pure, fresh air.
Carriage Ride Travel by train to Seefeld, where upon arrival you will be met by drivers and horse-drawn carriages. Choose to add a glass of schnapps to warm you up as you take a scenic carriage ride around the traditional ski-village, with a back drop of the Alps behind.
Salzburg The name of this city means “Salt Fortress” and it comes from the custom of taxing salt shipments down the Salzach River. It is the 4th largest city in Austria, and the capital of the state of Salzburg. The baroque Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the city sits in a valley surrounded by the Alps. Mozart was born here in the 18th century, and the city was the setting for “The Sound of Music”. Salzburg became part of Austria in the early 19th century, given by Bavaria. Some of the important sights are the Salzburg Castle, Salzburg Cathedral, Mirabell Gardens, the birthplace of Mozart and sites associated with “The Sound of Music.”
St. Peter's Restaurant Enjoy the 1,200-year-old St. Peter’s restaurant. Stiftskeller St. Peter is a restaurant within the monastery walls of St. Peter's Arch abbey in Salzburg, Austria. At the heart of Europe’s oldest restaurant, which dates back to 803, is Austrian culture, history and modernity. St. Peter Stiftskeller first built as inn, prospered into homes of the nobility including Austrian composer, Michael Haydn. It soon became the quarters for French troops during the Napoleonic wars in 1809. The culinary arts have flourished for centuries at St. Peter Stiftskeller and continue to evolve. Seasonal changes and sophisticated ingredients contribute to an ever-changing dining experience.
Linderhof Palace Inspired by Versailles and built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in 1886, Linderhof Palace has a Baroque facade with rich Rococco ornamentation inside. The Palace is an excellent way to see the incomparable artistry of the era’s craftspeople. Look for such lush decorations as a carpet made of ostrich plumes, an ivory candelabra and a table top inlayed with lapis-lazuli, amethyst and chalcedony.
Oberammergau This German town of 5,100 people is located in the Bavarian Alps, very close to the Austrian border. It is most famous for the Passion Play, which takes place here every 10 years. It was first held in 1634 to give thanks for escaping the Bubonic Plague and is performed only by inhabitants of Oberammergau. Almost half of the villagers took part in the last play in 2010. The town is also known for traditional Alpine woodcarving and frescoes on house facades, so walking through the center is like being in a museum. Many shops sell examples of the woodcraft. During WWII, Messerschmitt aircraft were built here, partly in tunnels in the mountain behind the town. Now the German Army and the NATO School occupy the former Nazi barracks here.
Munich This is the 3rd largest city in Germany and capital of Bavaria, population about 1.5 million in the city itself. It began as the site of a Benedictine monastery where the old city is today, and the name of the city comes from the word “monk”. It is famous today as the home of Oktoberfest and the Hofbrauhaus, the Glockenspiel clock in the Old Town Hall, its Christmas Market and the headquarters of BMW and Siemens. There are several universities there and it was the site of the 1972 Summer Olympics.
Christmas Markets The Christmas Markets in Europe typically open the last week of November and close on Christmas Eve. The tradition began in the Middle Ages in Central Europe, what is now Germany, eastern France and Austria, and now there are markets in many European countries. There is usually a Christmas tree, a nativity scene and many booths selling traditional regional toys and foods, and also beer and gluhwein or vin chaud (hot mulled wine). Some famous markets are in Nuremberg, Cologne, Frankfurt, Strasbourg (France) and Rothenberg. As many as 3 million people will visit each one every year.
Mode of Transport
Travel by train to the idyllic village of Seefeld, and enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride. Experience the scenic journey through the Alps and explore the charming towns of Austria and Germany.
Accommodation
Stay at the Hotel Innsbruck nestled in the heart of the mountains, and enjoy the comfort of Movenpick Hotel Munich Airport for a relaxing end to your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experience can I expect in Seefeld during the tour?
In Seefeld, you will experience a horse-drawn carriage ride through the picturesque village, accompanied by a traditional gift of schnapps. This charming town offers a quintessential Austrian wintertime experience with its beautiful Alpine setting.
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What culinary experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a strudel demonstration where you can learn about and taste this traditional dessert. Additionally, you will have dinner at St. Peter's Restaurant in Salzburg, which is the oldest restaurant in Austria, offering a unique dining experience steeped in history.
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What can I expect to see in Munich during the tour?
In Munich, you will visit Marienplatz to see the iconic Glockenspiel with its life-size figurines. You will also have free time to explore the city, perhaps visiting the renowned Hofbrauhaus or shopping at one of Europe's largest Christmas markets. A local guide will take you on a tour of Munich, highlighting famous sights such as the Royal Square and Parliament Building.
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What is special about the Linderhof Palace visit?
Linderhof Palace is the only palace that King Ludwig II lived to see completed. During your visit, you will walk through its extraordinary halls, which were modeled after Versailles, and learn about the luxurious lifestyle of past royals with the help of an expert guide.
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What historical and cultural sites will I visit in Salzburg?
In Salzburg, you will explore the storybook Old Town, including the baroque heart of the city and the famous thoroughfare of Mozart's birthplace. You will also visit Mirabell Gardens and the iconic 'Do-Re-Mi steps' from The Sound of Music. The day concludes with a traditional dinner at St. Peter's Skiftskeller, the oldest continuously-serving restaurant in Europe.
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Can I pre-purchase optional excursions/activities?
Yes, the majority of optional excursions and activities are available for advance purchase for applicable tours provided that you make your options purchase prior to 15 days of the tour departure. Collette makes it convenient to reserve presold options by visiting our website for a full listing of activities and excursions or when your reservation is made with our reservations staff. In addition, there are benefits to prepurchasing options including a price guarantee once your tour is paid in full. So, while the cost of an optional activity may change from the time you book your tour, once payment is received in full, your preselected options are guaranteed by Collette at their original price. Although you can still purchase options while on tour, reserving them ahead of time ensures you a spot in the event that the activity sells out. Collette will provide a refund if you cancel a presold option prior to tour departure. Any presold options canceled while on tour are nonrefundable.
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Can my children travel on tour?
Children over the age of 5 may travel on a Collette tour accompanied by an adult. Child land rates are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults. Participation in any products that include Safari or Game Drive components, is limited to travelers aged 13 and up. This will include tours to Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and India.
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What is the difference between a twin room and double room?
In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than U.S. standard accommodations. A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.
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Do you provide VISA processing for all applicable destinations?
Collette does not process VISAs. Every nation has its own specific requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website for the country you are visiting to find the forms and information you need. The process of getting a VISA can take two weeks to two months.
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Do I need a passport?
Government-issued ID is required for all air travel. A valid passport is required for all trips outside the USA. All passengers should check with the appropriate foreign consulate for entry and validity requirements. We recommend that your passport has six months validity, and at least 3 blank pages. Passports and visas are the responsibility of each client. International Borders. Any child under age 16 (traveling without a parent or legal guardian to Canada) must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. Please be advised that if you have been convicted of an offense, or have committed a criminal act that is an offense under the laws where it occurred and would be an offense in Canada, you may be inadmissible into Canada. You will need to apply for a Minister's Permit of Approval of Rehabilitation at a Canadian Consulate. All other travelers should contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements in other international destinations. In South Africa, children are required to have a passport as well as additional documentation to travel with you into and out of the country. Please consult the South African Embassy for the current specific requirements related to your travel dates. If travelling internationally with a child under the age of 18, please check directly with the airline for the legal documentation that is required. It is the sole responsibility of the guest to procure the proper documentation to travel and many requirements vary by airline and destination. Collette will not be responsible for costs incurred for missed flights or canceled tours where a guest fails to secure proper documentation.
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Is there a lot of walking on tour?
We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. Some hotels/lodges in remote locations may not have elevators. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
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Sunday - Sunday
Dec 14, 2025 - Dec 21, 2025Book with Confidence
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