Winter Wonderland - Classic Group

Winter Wonderland - Classic Group

9 Days
From

$2915

Winter Wonderland - Classic Group

9 Days Starting and ending in Frankfurt, Germany

Visiting: Frankfurt, Mainz, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Munich, Lake Chiemsee, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Vaduz, Lucerne, Chapel Bridge, Lucerne, Lion Monument, Lucerne, Mount Pilatus, Schaffhausen, Rhine Falls, Black Forest, Heidelberg

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

W600N26

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $2915 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 12-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a magical journey through the heart of Europe with the "Winter Wonderland - Classic Group" tour. This enchanting adventure takes you through Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland, offering a blend of cosmopolitan cities, historic towns, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Begin in Frankfurt and explore the charming streets of Mainz, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Munich. Discover Salzburg's musical heritage and Innsbruck's festive markets. Experience the serene beauty of Lucerne and the majestic Mount Pilatus. Delight in authentic dining experiences, from savoring gingerbread in Salzburg to a special dinner at Swarovski Crystal Worlds. Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride in Innsbruck and marvel at the Rhine Falls. This tour promises unforgettable moments, cultural insights, and the joy of festive traditions, all while traveling in comfort and style.

Highlights

  • Mainz: Witness half-timbered houses and Baroque buildings surrounding the magnificent Dom Cathedral.

  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Experience a fairytale town with its 500-year-old Reiterlesmarkt and medieval buildings.

  • Munich: See Feldherrnhalle, the English Garden, and the famous Marienplatz during a city orientation.

  • Salzburg: Visit Mozart's family home and the 500-year-old Christmas Market in front of the cathedral.

  • Innsbruck: Explore the picturesque Old Town and visit the magical Swarovski Crystal Worlds.

  • Vaduz: Admire the Royal family's residence, Vaduz Castle, surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

  • Lucerne: See the emotive Lion Monument, Jesuit Church, and Chapel Bridge.

  • Mount Pilatus: Enjoy a spectacular journey to the summit for panoramic views of snow-capped peaks.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Frankfurt and on to Mainz

Frankfurt, Germany
Mainz, Germany
Frankfurt, Germany

Location: Frankfurt, Mainz

Accommodation Name: Hilton, Mainz

Meals Included: Dinner

Welcome to Germany. From the Rhine Valley to the Alps, experience lively cosmopolitan cities, historic old towns and breathtaking natural scenery. Transfers from Frankfurt airport to your Mainz hotel. Mainz has been a bustling and important town since the time of the Romans. Join your Travel Director and fellow guests for a walk through the Cathedral Quarter to witness the magnificent architecture of the city’s Dom. At a local restaurant, enjoy an evening of good food and wine during your dinner.

Day 2: Rothenburg ob der Tauber and the Romantic Road to Munich

Munich, Germany

Location: Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Munich

Accommodation Name: The Westin Grand, Munich

Meals Included: Breakfast

Head to fortified Rothenburg ob der Tauber, overlooking the winding Tauber River. Once through the medieval walls, you are immediately transported back into the 16th century, as cobblestone streets lead you to the medieval Market Square with its Town Hall. Perhaps visit Tilman Riemenschneider’s ‘Holy Blood’ altarpiece in St Jakob’s Church or pop into the Christmas shop where you’ll find the festive spirit all year round? Follow parts of the Romantic Road to fun-loving Munich.

Day 3: The Bavarian Capital of Munich Relaxed Start

Munich, Germany

Location: Munich

Accommodation Name: The Westin Grand, Munich

Meals Included: Breakfast

During your orientation you will see Victory Arch and the university, concluding in the Marienplatz with its soaring Gothic Town Hall and colorful Glockenspiel. Join a Local Expert on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience to discover lost and forgotten Advent traditions. The rest of the day is at leisure. Why not try a foaming stein of beer at the world-famous Hofbräuhaus?

Day 4: Lake Chiemsee to Salzburg Relaxed Start

Salzburg, Austria

Location: Lake Chiemsee, Salzburg

Accommodation Name: Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Center

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel alongside the beautiful Lake Chiemsee and cross the Austrian border to Salzburg, ‘alive with the Sound of Music.’ Walk with your Local Expert through the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace and admire the city skyline, crowned by the majestic Hohensalzburg Fortress. Cross the Salzach River to see Mozart’s birthplace on the Getreidegasse, a lively shopping street lined with charming wrought-iron signs. Visit Mozart's birthplace to learn more about his life, and enjoy a musical interlude performed on his original pianoforte.For those arriving before Christmas, visit the festive Christmas Market and meet a local stallholder for a taste of traditional Lebkuchen and a fragrant cup of Glühwein. Follow the narrow lanes of the Old Town to the domed cathedral and the splendid Residenz Fountain, before having time at leisure to enjoy as you please. In the evening, perhaps visit an Austrian chalet for dinner, drinks and the opportunity to learn about life in the countryside?

Day 5: Innsbruck

Innsbruck, Austria

Location: Innsbruck

Accommodation Name: AC, Innsbruck, Hotel Grauer Bär, Innsbruck

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

In the morning, a scenic journey takes you through snow-capped mountains to Innsbruck. See the magnificent Golden Roof in the Old Town, then loose yourself in the festive atmosphere as you spend some time exploring Innsbruck's magical Christmas Markets. The giant Christmas tree dominates the square and is adorned in lights and decorations. Browse the market stalls, selling handmade trinkets that make perfect gifts for friends and family, along with delicious local treats of home-made biscuits, jams and delicious, soul-warming Glühwein. Next, delight in a visit to the magical world of Swarovski Crystal, followed by a dinner.

Day 6: Liechtenstein and Lucerne by the Lake Relaxed Start

Lucerne
Gilda Giorgi Lucerne
meeta Lucerne

Location: Vaduz, Lucerne, Chapel Bridge, Lucerne, Lion Monument, Lucerne

Accommodation Name: Astoria Lucerne

Meals Included: Breakfast

Meet your coachman and take in the delightful scenery and pure fresh air on a horse-drawn carriage ride. Next, depart for Lucerne traveling through delightful scenery abounds as you make your way to the Arlberg Tunnel. Stop in Vaduz, capital of the Principality of Liechtenstein, one of Europe’s smallest countries. Cross the Swiss border and continue to lakeside Lucerne. Your Travel Director will show you the covered wooden Chapel Bridge and you’ll learn about the poignant history of the Lion Monument. Then you are at leisure to shop for Swiss watches or delicious chocolate.

Day 7: Lovely Lucerne

Lucerne
Gilda Giorgi Lucerne
meeta Lucerne

Location: Mount Pilatus, Lucerne

Accommodation Name: Astoria Lucerne

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Start the day with a spectacular cable car ride with incredible views up Mount Pilatus. Back in Lucerne, you are free to admire the superb baroque Jesuit Church, stroll along lakeside promenades, or explore the old walls and watch towers of the medieval fortifications. Perhaps join a cruise along Lake Lucerne?

Day 8: Heidelberg

Black Forest, Germany
Heidelberg, Germany

Location: Schaffhausen, Rhine Falls, Black Forest, Heidelberg

Accommodation Name: Atlantic, Heidelberg

Meals Included: Breakfast

Stop at Schaffhausen to see the Rhine River thundering over the Rhine Falls. Cross the German border and venture deep into the Black Forest. Following the Rhine Valley north, head for the town of Heidelberg, set on the banks of the river Neckar and dominated by its magnificent red sandstone castle. Stroll through the old town with your Travel Director. Perhaps see the old Student Prison? In the evening, you'll toast to your penultimate day in the company of your newfound friends at dinner accompanied by wine.

Day 9: Depart Frankfurt Airport

Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt, Germany
Heidelberg, Germany

Location: Heidelberg, Frankfurt

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your festive exploration comes to an end as you are transferred to Frankfurt airport.

What's Included

  • Transfers

    Transfers from Frankfurt airport to your Mainz hotel are included.

  • Guided Tours

    Enjoy guided tours with a Travel Director in various cities including Munich, Salzburg, and Heidelberg.

  • Local Expert Experiences

    Join a Local Expert in Salzburg to see Mozart's family home and the Christmas Market.

  • Horse-drawn Carriage Ride

    Experience a delightful horse-drawn carriage ride in Innsbruck.

  • Swarovski Crystal Worlds

    Visit the magical Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Innsbruck.

  • Mount Pilatus

    Enjoy a spectacular journey to the summit of Mount Pilatus.

  • Rhine Falls

    Visit the spectacular Rhine Falls.

  • Personal Radio Headsets

    Personal radio headsets are provided for visits to famous highlights.

  • Hotel and Restaurant Tips

    Hotel and restaurant tips are included.

  • Baggage Handling

    Baggage handling is included, with bags delivered to your hotel door.

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What's Not Included

  • Flights

    Flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as visiting the old Student Prison in Heidelberg are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style and comfort aboard a luxurious, air-conditioned 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom, ensuring a relaxing journey through the scenic landscapes of Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland.

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at renowned hotels such as Hilton Mainz, The Westin Grand Munich, Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Center, and Astoria Lucerne, offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, ensuring a restful retreat after each day's adventures.

Dining Summary

  • 3 Dinner (D)
  • 8 Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Dinner with Wine (DW)

Additional Included Highlights

  • Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
  • Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
  • We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
  • From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
  • Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
  • If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

Insight Experiences

  • Salzburg: Visit the house where Mozart was born in 1756. Enjoy a pianoforte demonstration and examine letters, memorabilia, and musical instruments of the great composer, plus a fascinating collection of portraits.

Travel Director

  • "Guests are always amazed and intrigued by the vast amount of beautifully decorated sweet treats on offer in Germany during the festive period."
  • "Munich is the capital of beer, so taking guests into the famous Hofbräuhaus, at any time of year, gives them a small idea of what it’s like to attend Oktoberfest."
  • "It's magical to see how a group of guests comes together over the course of our trip. I can always tell when that's happening because suddenly the enthusiasm is palpable."

Well-being

  • Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
  • Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the Winter Wonderland tour?

    The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as a horse-drawn carriage ride in Innsbruck, a visit to the Swarovski Crystal Worlds, and a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Munich to discover lost and forgotten Advent traditions. Additionally, there is a visit to Mozart's birthplace in Salzburg with a pianoforte demonstration.

  • What kind of dining experiences can I expect on this tour?

    The tour offers several authentic dining experiences, including a dinner in a local restaurant in Mainz, tasting gingerbread and Glühwein at the Salzburg Christmas Market, and a special dinner at Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Innsbruck. The tour concludes with a dinner with wine in Heidelberg.

  • Are there any special highlights in Salzburg during the tour?

    Yes, in Salzburg, you will visit Mozart's family home, see the 500-year-old Christmas Market, and enjoy a musical interlude performed on Mozart's original pianoforte. You will also explore the Old Town and see the Residenz Fountain.

  • What can I expect to see in Lucerne during the tour?

    In Lucerne, you will see the emotive Lion Monument, Jesuit Church, and Chapel Bridge. You will also take a spectacular cable car ride up Mount Pilatus for panoramic views of snow-capped peaks.

  • What is the significance of the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Munich?

    The MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Munich involves discovering lost and forgotten Advent traditions, which play a significant role in regional cultural revitalization. This experience supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

  • 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.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • 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.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • 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.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

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1 Select your preferred date

Tuesday - Wednesday

Dec 16, 2025 - Dec 24, 2025
$3075 $2919 (USD)

Operator discount: -$10 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$146 (USD)

Thursday - Friday

Dec 18, 2025 - Dec 26, 2025
$3075 $2919 (USD)

Operator discount: -$10 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$146 (USD)

Saturday - Sunday

Dec 27, 2025 - Jan 04, 2026
$3175 $3015 (USD)

Operator discount: -$10 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$150 (USD)

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 14, 2026 - Nov 22, 2026
$2915 (USD)

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 21, 2026 - Nov 29, 2026
$3540 (USD)

Tuesday - Wednesday

Dec 15, 2026 - Dec 23, 2026
$2915 (USD)

Thursday - Friday

Dec 17, 2026 - Dec 25, 2026
$3115 (USD)

Saturday - Sunday

Dec 26, 2026 - Jan 03, 2027
$3215 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.