Germany & Austria Itinerary 10 Days: Alpine Peaks to Imperial Grandeur
This 10-day journey takes you from the vibrant Bavarian capital of Munich, through the musical city of Salzburg and the Alpine charm of Innsbruck, concluding in the imperial elegance of Vienna, all connected by efficient train travel.
- 1Munich
- 2Salzburg
- 3Innsbruck
- 4Vienna
Day 1: Arrive in Munich
Arrive at Munich Airport (MUC) and transfer to the city centre. Spend your afternoon getting acquainted with Munich's historic heart, focusing on its central square and surrounding old town.
Highlights
- Transfer from Munich Airport (MUC) to Munich Central Station (München Hauptbahnhof) in approximately 45 minutes via S-Bahn or Lufthansa Express Bus.
- Orient yourself with a stroll through Marienplatz, Munich's central square.
- Explore the charming streets and historic architecture of the Old Town.
Day 2: Explore Munich's Royal Heritage
Dedicate today to Munich's rich royal history and its magnificent green spaces, offering a blend of opulent palaces and relaxing gardens.
Highlights
- Discover centuries of Bavarian royal history at the Munich Residenz, the city's largest palace.
- Wander through the grand Baroque Nymphenburg Palace and its landscaped grounds.
- Relax or stroll through the vast English Garden, a central park with meadows and river scenes.
Day 3: Munich to Salzburg by Train
Journey by train from Munich to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the city's musical legacy and explore its iconic hilltop fortress.
Highlights
- Take a direct train from Munich Hbf to Salzburg Hbf, a journey averaging 1 hour 50 minutes with providers like Deutsche Bahn and ÖBB.
- Visit Mozart's Birthplace, a museum dedicated to the famous composer's early life.
- Ascend to the Hohensalzburg Fortress for panoramic city views and a glimpse into medieval history.
Day 4: Explore Salzburg's Baroque Beauty
Spend a full day exploring Salzburg's stunning Baroque architecture, from its grand cathedral to the picturesque Mirabell Gardens.
Highlights
- Admire the grand dome and rich interior of Salzburg Cathedral, a major sacred monument.
- Stroll through the formal Mirabell Gardens, known for their baroque design and fortress views.
- Wander down Getreidegasse, Salzburg’s famous shopping lane with historic houses and unique guild signs.
Day 5: Day Trip to Hallstatt
Embark on a scenic train journey to the picturesque lakeside village of Hallstatt, renowned for its stunning views and charming atmosphere.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Salzburg Hbf to Hallstatt Bahnhof, with the earliest outbound departure at 00:13 and latest return at 23:33.
- Experience the Hallstatt Skywalk Welterbeblick for sweeping lake and village panoramas.
- Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Seepromenade, offering classic waterfront views of Hallstatt's iconic houses.
Day 6: Salzburg to Innsbruck by Train
Travel by train through the Austrian Alps to Innsbruck. Upon arrival, discover the city's famous Goldenes Dachl and explore its historic Altstadt.
Highlights
- Board a direct train from Salzburg Hbf to Innsbruck Hbf, a journey averaging 2 hours 27 minutes with providers like ÖBB and Westbahn.
- See the Goldenes Dachl, Innsbruck’s iconic late Gothic landmark.
- Explore the Altstadt Innsbruck, the city's medieval heart with arcaded streets and pastel facades.
Day 7: Explore Innsbruck's Alpine Charm
Dedicate today to Innsbruck's breathtaking Alpine scenery and its impressive Imperial Hofburg, blending natural beauty with historical grandeur.
Highlights
- Take a trip to Seegrube for high alpine viewpoints and dramatic Nordkette scenery.
- Visit the Hofburg Innsbruck, a former Imperial Habsburg residence with richly decorated state rooms.
- Explore Hofkirche Innsbruck, a late Gothic court church known for Emperor Maximilian I’s cenotaph.
Day 8: Innsbruck to Vienna by Train
Travel by train from Innsbruck to Vienna, the grand capital of Austria. Begin your exploration with the magnificent Ringstrasse and the iconic St. Stephen's Cathedral.
Highlights
- Take a direct train from Innsbruck Hbf to Wien Hauptbahnhof, a journey averaging 5 hours 22 minutes with providers like ÖBB and Westbahn.
- Drive or walk along the Ringstrasse, a circular boulevard lined with palaces and museums.
- Visit St. Stephen's Cathedral, Vienna’s Gothic spiritual symbol in the heart of the old city.
Day 9: Explore Vienna's Imperial Splendor
Immerse yourself in Vienna's imperial past and world-class art scene, visiting grand palaces and renowned museums.
Highlights
- Discover the opulent Schönbrunn Palace, an imperial summer residence with Baroque rooms and gardens.
- Explore the Hofburg, the former Habsburg winter residence housing ceremonial apartments.
- Visit the Belvedere Museum, home to Klimt’s 'The Kiss' and outstanding Austrian art.
Day 10: Depart Vienna
Enjoy a final morning in Vienna, perhaps with a visit to a prominent art museum, before transferring to Vienna International Airport for your departure.
Highlights
- Spend time at the Albertina, combining major temporary art shows with its impressive permanent collections.
- Experience Viennese coffee house culture with a traditional breakfast or coffee.
- Transfer to Vienna International Airport (VIE) from Wien Hauptbahnhof in approximately 15 minutes via ÖBB Railjet for your onward journey.
