Itinerary:
Day #1 Overnight Flight - Embark on a journey through quaint villages, bustling cities and an enchanting Alpine backdrop when you explore Bavaria and experience Oberammergau’s historic Passion Play.
Day #2 Munich, Germany - Tour Begins - Your adventure begins in the Bavarian capital of Munich – idyllically situated at the foot of the Alps and your home for the next five nights. Meet your fellow travelers and toast the beginning of an unforgettable tour during your welcome dinner.
Day #3 Munich - This morning set off for a locally guided panoramic tour of Munich showcasing its unique blend of folkloric ambience and modern sophistication. Visit Olympic Park, site of the 1972 Olympic games and a stunning example of modern architecture. Next, marvel at the Baroque-influenced architecture of the city as you visit the Marienplatz – the heart of Munich and the most scenic square of the old town. Here, behold the Rathaus-Glockenspiel – an ornate clock comprised of 43 bells and 32 life-sized figures that depict medieval jousting and dancing – reflecting different pieces of Bavaria’s history. LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Today, your Tour Manager will help you discover the origin and history of the language(s) you will experience on your tour along with key words and phrases that will help you communicate with the locals. The remainder of your day is at leisure to explore Munich’s lovely historic center, relax or discover more of the city’s beauty on your own.
Day #4 Munich - Innsbruck, Austria - Munich - This morning, travel to the enchanting “capital of the Alps” – Innsbruck. Here, modern architecture stands beside 800-year-old buildings and the Austrian Alps create a post-card perfect backdrop. Join a local guide for a panoramic tour of this Imperial city featuring Maria Theresienstrasse; the famous Golden Roof, built in 1500 by Archduke Friedrich IV; and the Hofburg, once the seat of Habsburg princes. The remainder of your day is at leisure to relax or further explore Innsbruck.
Day #5 Munich - Enjoy a day at leisure to uncover more of Munich’s gems. Perhaps you will visit Peterskirche, its oldest church; Maximilianstrasse, a famous shopping avenue; or a beer garden. Your Tour Manager will be on hand to offer suggestions.
Day #6 Munich - Nuremberg - Munich - This morning, travel to the vibrant city of Nuremberg. During World War II, much of Nuremburg’s cityscape was destroyed. Today, find medieval structures alongside modern architecture reflecting Nuremberg’s post-war prosperity. Take in historical sights during a guided city tour. A local expert shares fascinating commentary as you explore the Rally Grounds, where the Nazi Party once held political rallies, and the Justice Palace, where the War Crimes Tribunal sat in 1946. The tour continues past romantic half-timbered houses in the castle quarter to the enchanting Imperial Castle, one of the most important Imperial palaces dating back to the Middle Ages. Explore the tapestry hung walls, paintings and furniture from the 15th and 16th centuries in the many residential and state rooms of the palace. Behold 900-year-old ramparts that surround the city and historic St. Sebald Church.
Day #7 Munich - Oberammergau Region - Leave Munich behind as you head for the quaint Bavarian village of Oberammergau. This afternoon, experience the world-famous Passion Play – a powerful once-in-a-decade event. The original performance dates back to 1634 when the villagers of Oberammergau vowed to perform a play depicting the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ every ten years if God would spare its residents from the clutches of the Bubonic Plague. No one died after that and a legend was born. The Passion Play has become an epic event. The 41st production, once again by natives of Oberammergau, takes the world by storm. During a break in the performance, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner celebrating the end of an unforgettable Alpine journey.
Day #8 Oberammergau Region - Tour Ends -