Experience Austria, where imperial grandeur meets vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. This journey blends history, culinary delights, and natural beauty. It's an unforgettable adventure. Start in Vienna, the former heart of the Habsburg Empire, now a lively hub of art and gastronomy. Stroll through trendy neighborhoods, savor local cuisine, and marvel at Gustav Klimt’s masterpieces in the elegant Belvedere Palace. Drift through the Wachau Valley, stay in charming Dürnstein, and cruise the Danube amidst vineyards and breathtaking scenery. Explore the grand Melk Abbey and enjoy a leisurely lunch in the picturesque town of Steyr. Venture into the serene Salzkammergut region, home to the iconic Hallstatt and the tranquil Grundlsee, surrounded by majestic mountains. In Salzburg, immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage, learning to craft authentic Austrian dishes with a local chef, and end your journey with a classical concert at Fortress Hohensalzburg, overlooking the city. Extend your adventure and continue to Munich, the Bavarian metropolis famous for its beer, stunning architecture, and trendy lifestyle.
Here's a day-by-day itinerary of the trip
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The Hotel Altstadt Vienna, a boutique hotel, is in the vibrant Spittelberg area. Known for its distinctive, artistic ambiance, the hotel's location offers easy access to major attractions, including the Museums Quartier and the historic center of Vienna.
The Hotel Richard Löwenherz is a charming 4-star hotel in Dürnstein, along the picturesque banks of the Danube River. The hotel is in a former monastery, blending historic ambiance with modern comfort. Its location in the Wachau Valley makes it an ideal base for exploring local vineyards and historic sites.
The Seehotel Grundlsee is on the shores of Lake Grundlsee in Austria's picturesque Salzkammergut region. Known for its serene and scenic setting, the hotel offers beautiful lake views and private beach access. This is an ideal retreat for relaxation and exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
The Arthotel Blaue Gans is a stylish 4-star hotel in the heart of Salzburg's Old Town. Combining contemporary design with historic charm, the hotel features elegant decor. It is ideally located to enjoy Salzburg's major attractions, including Mozart’s birthplace and the Salzburg Cathedral.
The 4-Star Cortina Boutique Hotel is a short 5-minute walk from the very center of Munich, the Marienplatz. The elegant decor will make you feel part of the stylish Munich suburb.
Austrian Escapades - Art, Wine, and Wilderness
Austria is a land of striking contrasts and breathtaking landscapes, where Alpine peaks meet lush valleys. Vienna, along the Danube River, blends rich history with stunning architecture. The Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features terraced vineyards and charming villages like Dürnstein and Melk Abbey. The Salzkammergut region offers crystal-clear lakes and mountain views, with Hallstatt and Grundlsee providing serene relaxation. Salzburg captivates with its cultural heritage and landmarks, including breathtaking views from Fortress Hohensalzburg during a classical concert.
Everything specified in the itinerary
All meals (except where indicated), including beer & wine with dinner
Accommodations at unique, 4-star or better hotels
All transportation during the trip (except where indicated)
Expert guides and trip leaders
A small group experience
Cooking class for a traditional Austrian meal
Tour at Domäne Wachau winery
Boat tour on River Danube with wine tasting
Classical concert at Fortress Hohensalzburg
Entry tickets to all activities listed in the itinerary
Additional wine, beer, and/or spirits beyond what’s offered at meals
All personal souvenirs
Travel and medical insurance (required)
Any spa treatment desired
Round-trip airfare to Austria
The trip officially starts on the afternoon of June 10th. If your flight doesn't get in until later, or you'd like some time to relax in Vienna, there's an Arrive One Day Early option you can purchase as an Add-On.
You should fly into Vienna International Airport (VIE) at the beginning of your journey. This airport is the main gateway to Vienna and is conveniently located for the start of your itinerary. If you are not the trip extension to Munich, you should fly out from Salzburg Airport (SZG). If you extend your trip to include Munich, your departure will be from Munich Airport (MUC).
In June, Austria experiences mild to warm weather with daytime temperatures around 77°F (25°C) and nighttime temperatures around 57°F (14°C) . There are about 14 days of rain, averaging 83 mm, and around 235 hours of sunshine, making it a pleasant time to visit.
We will have a Zoom call about 6 weeks before the trip starts to discuss all that information and give you a packing list. Here is a great website that we love that will help you with packing and travel trips.