Oktoberfest, the Germanic Experience
Discover the Germanic awe of the world’s longest running beer festival at Oktoberfest in Munich, with exclusive seating in one of festival tents—your very own VIP hall among a sea of six million festival goers. Meet Patrick von Ritchthofen, a direct descendant of the Red Baron, before journeying across the Austrian border for a Danube River Cruise, sailing past the mountainside vineyards and lush green surrounds of the Wachau Valley.
- 20 Sep 2026 – 30 Sep 2026
from $7,925 pp twin share *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
- Day 1 – Welcome to Berlin:
On arrival at Berlin’s Brandenburg Airport, transfer will leave for the hotel at 10:30, 13:00 & 16:00. Your time is yours to explore, perhaps visit nearby Check Point Charlie – once the best-known Berlin Wall crossing between East and West Berlin during the Cold War. This evening at 17:30, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner with beer and wine. - Day 2 – The Spirit of Berlin:
Join a Local Expert to see some of Berlin’s many highlights. Travel along the Ku’Damm past the Memorial Church. Drive through the Tiergarten to see Norman Foster’s glass dome that crowns the reconstructed Reichstag building. Continue with a visit to the Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of the reunification, and down along the Unter den Linden, past the Humboldt University and State Opera. Stop on Museum Island before enjoying some time at leisure in this once divided city. - Day 3 – Dresden, a Baroque Phoenix on the Elbe:
In Dresden, join your Local Expert to see the splendours of the city. From the Frauenkirche, which has risen again from the destruction of World War II, walk past ‘The Procession of the Princes’, a mosaic of colossal proportions on the Royal Palace facade. See the huge cathedral, Semper Opera House and Baroque Zwinger Palace. Although the town was heavily bombed during World War II, it remains a treasure trove of early German history and medieval architecture. - Day 4 – Journey to Munich:
In Nuremberg witness the charming blend of stone and timbered dwellings in the Old Town as well as the massive ramparts. Perhaps shop for delicious Lebkuchen (gingerbread)? Continue across the Danube to Munich, the capital of the state of Bavaria, lying near the foot of the German Alps. At night, perhaps consider dinner at one of Munich’s famous ‘Bier Kellers’? - Day 5 – Munich and Oktoberfest:
Be welcomed into fun loving Munich for an orientation tour which shows you the Feldernhalle on the Odeonsplatz, the Palace of the Dukes of Wittelsbach, English Garden, Hofbrauhaus, St Peters Church and the famous Marienplatz. Munich hosts the most famous beer festival in the world – Oktoberfest! The beer festival has been running since 1810 and now sees over 6 million visitors each year. This afternoon enjoy the festival atmosphere, amusement rides, entertainment, beer and local Bavarian specialities for dinner! With tables reserved, your dedicated host will ensure a memorable time is had by all. - Day 6 – Explore Munich:
After a relaxed start, take the opportunity to enjoy the city or why not visit Dachau Memorial. In the evening, join special guest – Patrick von Richthofen, a descendent of Manfred von Richthofen otherwise known as ‘The Red Baron’, for an unforgettable dinner. - Day 7 – Journey to Salzburg:
A short drive over the Austrian border leads to Salzburg, steeped in musical history. A Local Expert will show you the gardens of the Mirabell Palace, the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress, the cathedral in the old town, Mozart’s birthplace, and locations that brought the city alive with the Sound of Music. - Day 8 – Explore Berchtesgaden:
Your day trip today takes you into the heart of Alpine Bavaria. Drive over the German border, past picturesque farmhouses and villages to Obersalzberg. Nearly 75 years ago, this small mountain paradise was the summer playground for top Nazi brass. Take a scenic drive up the mountain to Hitler’s notorious “Eagle’s Nest”, used as a restaurant since the 1950’s. From here you can enjoy splendid views through the arches up to the “Hohen Goll” and across the snow-capped peaks. Soak up the picturesque scenery of the region as you continue past hill tops and mountain villages. - Day 9 – Journey to Vienna:
Cross the Austrian border and head east through the rolling countryside to stop in the shadow of the great Monastery of Melk. Join a river cruise along the stunning Wachau Valley, where the Danube meanders below forested cliffs, topped with picturesque churches and ruined castles. Pass the fortress of Dürnstein, where Richard the Lionheart languished in prison until discovered by his faithful Welsh minstrel, then alight beneath the vine laden cliffs of Krems. Immerse yourself in the vineyards and cellars of the local winery to learn about and sample the unique Wachau style wine. Finally, we head for the Austrian capital, and to our hotel. - Day 10 – Discover Vienna:
Much of Vienna’s present day charm is due to the long reign of the Habsburgs, so in the morning, join a Local Expert for a guided visit of Maria Theresa’s Schönbrunn Palace and formal gardens. Then get your camera ready for a drive around the famous Ring Road. This grand boulevard, built along the lines of the old city walls, showcases many of the capital’s architectural masterpieces, including the Opera House, magnificent Hofburg Imperial Residence and Parliament Building. As night falls, experience an extraordinary concert of Viennese classical music. The best-loved works of Johann Strauss and Mozart, performed by highly acclaimed soloists and dancers, are combined with a delicious meal of traditional Austrian fare, with drinks included. - Day 11 – Auf Wiedersehen Vienna:
A transfer arrives at Vienna airport at 08.00
Highlights
- Exclusive seating in a private Oktoberfest festival tent.
- Meet a direct descendant of the Red Baron.
- Sail the Danube River through the stunning Wachau Valley.
Discover the Germanic awe of the world’s longest running beer festival at Oktoberfest in Munich, with exclusive seating in one of festival tents—your very own VIP hall among a sea of six million festival goers. Meet Patrick von Ritchthofen, a direct descendant of the Red Baron, before journeying across the Austrian border for a Danube River Cruise, sailing past the mountainside vineyards and lush green surrounds of the Wachau Valley.
Inclusions
- Guided sightseeing tour with Local Expert in Berlin, Dresden, Salzburg and Vienna • Orientation tour of Nuremberg and Munich.
- Breathtaking scenic drive through Berchtesgaden countryside.
- Visit the world famous Oktoberfest in Munich • The imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress with Funicular ride in Salzburg • Hitler’s notorious “Eagle’s Nest” in Berchtesgaden • River Cruise along the stunning Wachau Valley • Wachau style wine tasting • Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna.
- Berlin: Join your Local Expert to explore Berlin’s imperial and contemporary character.
- Drive along the Ku’damm, once the heart of West Berlin, and pause at the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, its ruined spire a striking peace monument.
- Pass through the Tiergarten to the Reichstag, then continue to the Brandenburg Gate, State Opera and Museum Island, home to Berlin’s oldest museum complex.
FAQs
- Hilton Dresden
- IMLAUER & Bräu Salzburg
- Imperial Riding School Vienna, Autograph Collection
- InterContinental Vienna
- The Westin Grand, Munich
- Westin Grand Hotel Berlin
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 11 days and 10 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 20 Sep 2026 and 30 Sep 2026, subject to live availability.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
What style of accommodation is used?
Accommodation is pre-arranged as part of the journey, with specific properties shown in the trip details.
Provided by: Insight VacationsFine Print
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