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Christmas Markets of Austria and Bavaria

8 Day Tour to Salzburg, Munich & Vienna

8 Days
2 Countries

Austria, Germany

5 Cities

Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Oberammergau, Munich

11 Meals

4 Dinner with Wines, 7 Breakfasts

Comfortable

Mainly 2 and 3 night stays in each location. Comfortable travel days with numerous stops. Requires walking to participate in top sites.

Average group size average 33
Tour brand Insight Vacations

Premium Tours by Insight Vacations

If you typically fly business with extra legroom and appreciate 4 and 5-star hotels and one-of-a-kind experiences, Insight Vacations is a great fit for you. Get all the sights and insights, up close and personal on these premium guided tours and enjoy business class seating on luxury motorcoaches designed just for Insight Vacations, with double the legroom and personal space of a regular touring coach. Engage your curiosity with hand-selected experiences, immerse yourself in local culture with superior dining and stay in style at highly rated hotels. Every tour includes at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience offering you the chance to experience the culture and community visited.

View all Insight Vacations Tours

Christmas Market Vacations

Experience the magical Christmas markets of Europe. Join the festive spirit as you visit iconic destinations like Germany, Austria, and France, exploring famous markets filled with handcrafted gifts, delicious treats, and a joyful ambiance. Let expert guides lead the way, ensuring a memorable holiday season surrounded by the charm of Europe's Christmas markets.

View all Christmas Market Vacations

Journey through the snowcapped peaks of the Austrian Alps on this grand tour of Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace, Salzburg’s 500-year-old Christmas Market and Munich’s six-story tall Christmas tree. Warm up with a mug or two of Glühwein at the Innsbruck Christmas Market before indulging in an exclusive Insight Choice, taking a horse and carriage ride through the romantic streets of the Old Town or a tour of the world of Swarovski Crystal. At the Salzburg Market Tasting experience, meet with a local market stallholder for an exclusive sampling of gingerbread, washed down with a glass of mulled wine. In Neuschwanstein, follow in Walt Disney’s footsteps on a tour of the fairytale-like castle that reputedly inspired him, complete with extravagant decorations and breathtaking views.

Reviews
5
Average group size
average 33
Tour brand
Insight Vacations
Travel style
Christmas Market Vacation
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Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Vienna

Meet your Travel Director at 18:00 and travel to a local restaurant for your Welcome Dinner. Enjoy the opportunity to mingle with fellow guests over a delightful meal and wine.

Mozart statue covered in snow in Vienna, Austria
Arrival Transfer Depart the airport at 10:00, 13:00, 15:30
Welcome Meet your Travel Director at 18:00
Hilton Vienna Park View Hotel Details
Included Meals Dinner with Wine

Hilton Vienna Park

The lobby of The Hilton Vienna Park hotel, Austria
The restaurant of the Hilton Vienna Park Hotel, Austria
The bar terrace of the Hilton Vienna Park hotel, Austria

About the Hotel

Vienna, Austria

The award-winning Hilton Vienna hotel is one of Austria's premier hotels. Set in the heart of the city, you are just moments away from the sights. Elegant and comfy rooms, combined with excellent service ensure a relaxing and refreshing stay.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Concierge
  • Room Service
  • Business Centre
  • Laundry
  • Gym
  • Spa
  • Foreign Currency Exchange
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Contemporary
Authentic Dining Meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers in Vienna, Austria
Vienna Dinner

Join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a drink, followed by a pleasant dinner with wine at a local restaurant. 

Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Day 2

Vienna sightseeing

At this time of year, the Austrian capital is a place of nostalgia and romance, with concerts, nativity displays and many official Advent Markets selling a vast array of seasonal gifts and mouth-watering treats. Tour Schönbrunn Palace and marvel at its frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gilded ornaments. Then ready your camera for a dazzling drive around the famous Ring Road. This grand boulevard is built along the lines of the old city walls and showcases many of the capital’s architectural masterpieces, including the Opera House and Hofburg Imperial Residence. You also see the City Hall and its surrounding parklands, festively decorated in a sea of lights – the perfect setting for the Viennese Christmas Market.

See the Christmas market stalls in Vienna Austria
Hilton Vienna Park View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Hilton Vienna Park

The lobby of The Hilton Vienna Park hotel, Austria
The restaurant of the Hilton Vienna Park Hotel, Austria
The bar terrace of the Hilton Vienna Park hotel, Austria

About the Hotel

Vienna, Austria

The award-winning Hilton Vienna hotel is one of Austria's premier hotels. Set in the heart of the city, you are just moments away from the sights. Elegant and comfy rooms, combined with excellent service ensure a relaxing and refreshing stay.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Concierge
  • Room Service
  • Business Centre
  • Laundry
  • Gym
  • Spa
  • Foreign Currency Exchange
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Contemporary
Top Rated Highlights Inside the Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria
Vienna Schönbrunn Palace Private Tour

A private, guided exploration of Schönbrunn Palace will have all your senses tingling. Stand beneath frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gil...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights The Town Hall of Vienna, Austria
Vienna City Tour

Join your Local Expert for a city tour that reveals both the renowned sights and hidden gems of Vienna's historic core. Travel along the Ring Road ...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Optional Experiences The Hofburg Palace in Vienna, Austria
Hidden Treasures Of Old Vienna Walk

A leisurely walk with an expert historian unveils the hidden squares and tucked-away corners of the old city. See the Hofburg Palace, which was the...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences
Gala Viennese Concert with Dinner Option

Enjoy a wonderful concert of Viennese Classical music performed by highly-acclaimed soloists and dancers. During this special evening, enjoy a glas...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 3

To Enchanting Salzburg

Journey through the rich farmlands of eastern Austria towards the lakes and mountains of the Salzkammergut and the enchanting city of Salzburg. Visit Mozart's birthplace to learn more about his life, and sit down to a musical demonstration on his original pianoforte.

Salzach river in Salzburg, Austria
ARCOTEL Castellani View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

ARCOTEL Castellani

Garden Chapel at The Arcotel Castellani Salzburg, Austria
Bar in The Arcotel Castellani Salzburg, Austria
Lobby bar in The Arcotel Castellani Salzburg, Austria
Chapel at The Arcotel Castellani Salzburg, Austria

About the Hotel

Salzburg, Austria

Combining historic substance and modern architecture, the ARCOTEL Castellani is located in green surroundings and only a 15-minute walk from the center of Salzburg. It features a large garden including a Baroque chapel and a 400-year old linden tree..

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Room Service
  • Gym
  • Concierge
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Contemporary
Insight Experiences Academy Of Music Salzburg, Austria
Experience a Musical Demonstration at Mozart's Birthplace in Salzburg

Visit the house where Mozart was born in 1756. Enjoy a pianoforte demonstration and examine letters, memorabilia, and musical instruments of the gr...

See More
Included in Trip

Insight Experiences

Day 4

The City of Mozart

Come December, the spires and domes of Salzburg’s old town are often draped in snow. Walk with your Local Expert to see Mozart’s family home on the Getreidegasse, beautifully decorated at this time of year. Then head on to the rosy hues of the 500-year-old Christmas Market in front of the cathedral. Culinary delicacies, candied fruits, hot mulled wine and the lovingly decorated stalls invite visitors to stop and browse. Here your Travel Director will introduce you to a market stallholder to enjoy sampling a Viennese winter dessert, complemented perfectly with a traditional fragrant glass of Glühwein.

Christmas in Salzburg, Austria
ARCOTEL Castellani View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

ARCOTEL Castellani

Garden Chapel at The Arcotel Castellani Salzburg, Austria
Bar in The Arcotel Castellani Salzburg, Austria
Lobby bar in The Arcotel Castellani Salzburg, Austria
Chapel at The Arcotel Castellani Salzburg, Austria

About the Hotel

Salzburg, Austria

Combining historic substance and modern architecture, the ARCOTEL Castellani is located in green surroundings and only a 15-minute walk from the center of Salzburg. It features a large garden including a Baroque chapel and a 400-year old linden tree..

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Room Service
  • Gym
  • Concierge
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Contemporary
Top Rated Highlights Birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg City Tour

With a Local Expert, see Mozart's family home and the 500-year-old Christmas Market in front of the cathedral. You'll also view the Hohensalzburg f...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Authentic Dining Gluhwein at the Christmas market Salzburg, Austria​
Salzburg Glühwein Tasting

At the Christmas Market, meet a local stallholder and taste the delicious gingerbread with a fragrant cup of Glühwein.

Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Optional Experiences
The Sound of Music with Hellbrunn Advent Market

Today, you'll live out your own Von Trapp fantasy in Salzburg. Together with our local expert, you'll experience some of the Salzburg area's 'Favor...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Evening In The Austrian Countryside
Evening In The Austrian Countryside

Drive into the pretty Austrian countryside for a special evening. Learn about rural life over a homemade dinner in this cozy corner of Salzburg. In...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 5

A Scenic Drive to Innsbruck

A lovely drive brings you to the Inn Valley and the Tyrolean Alps. Explore the Olympic village of Seefeld with Insight Choice. Choose to enjoy a horse & carriage ride to enjoy stunning Alpine scenery, or indulge in a morning tea of coffee and cake in a local cafe. Continue to the Tyrolean capital Innsbruck to enjoy the Christmas Markets in the heart of the old town. In the evening, enjoy dinner featuring Austrian favorites. 

Visit the Golden roof Salzburg Austria
AC Hotel Innsbruck View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

AC Hotel Innsbruck

Restaurant in The  AC Hotel Innsbruck, Austria
Restaurant in The AC Hotel Innsbruck, Austria
Breakfast buffet in The AC Hotel Innsbruck, Austria
Room in The AC Hotel Innsbruck, Austria

About the Hotel

Innsbruck, Austria

The AC Hotel Innsbruck is centrally located and just a few minutes walk from the Old Town. It was originally built in 1972 for the Winter Olympic games and has since been completely refurbished and upgraded to offer comfortable, sleek-designed rooms, each with views of the surrounding Alps.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Laundry
  • Gym
  • Business Centre

Style

  • Contemporary
Top Rated Highlights Panoramic view of colourful houses in Innsbruck, Tyrol, Austria
Innsbruck Orientation

Nestled amidst majestic mountains, Innsbruck is a beautiful city offering a unique combination of nature, history, and culture. Stroll the streets ...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights Horse and carriage ride Innsbruck Austria
Innsbruck Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

Meet your coachman and enjoy a delightful horse-drawn carriage ride, surrounded by the mountains and valleys of Tyrol.

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Authentic Dining Dine at a local restaurant in Innsbruck, Austria
Innsbruck Restaurant Dinner

Indulge in regional specialties during dinner at a local restaurant.

Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Day 6

Neuschwanstein castle and Oberammergau

Travel to the Neuschwanstein castle, before continuing into the beautiful scenery of the German Alps to visit Oberammergau, home of the Passion Play since 1634. See the immense theater and admire the colorful painted chalets before driving on to the Bavarian capital of Munich.

Snowy Odeonsplatz in Munich, Germany
Steigenberger Hotel Munich View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Steigenberger Hotel Munich

About the Hotel

Hotel Amenities

  • Bar
  • Business Centre
  • Spa
  • Gym
  • Restaurant
  • Terrace

Style

  • Contemporary
Top Rated Highlights Snowy street in Oberammergau, Bavaria, Germany
Oberammergau Orientation

Explore the town and see the theater where the Passion Play has been performed since 1634.

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Optional Experiences Bavarian Dinner, Munich, Germany
Bavarian Dinner

Tonight we'll soak up the lively atmosphere of a popular traditional restaurant. We'll enjoy traditional Bavarian hospitality and sample delicious regional specialties and local beer.

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 7

Munich

Join a Local Expert for a unique guided journey through Munich’s Advent traditions, on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Explore the quieter streets besides the Christmas Markets to learn about well-known Christmas customs and uncover traditions that have largely been forgotten today. In Marienplatz beside the soaring Town Hall, see the famous Glockenspiel. Beneath the gigantic Christmas tree, Munich’s traditional Christmas Market is an entrancing festival of light and music. In the evening, join your traveling companions at a local restaurant for a festive dinner with wine and good cheer.

Christmas market in Marienplatz, Munich, Germany
Steigenberger Hotel Munich View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Steigenberger Hotel Munich

About the Hotel

Hotel Amenities

  • Bar
  • Business Centre
  • Spa
  • Gym
  • Restaurant
  • Terrace

Style

  • Contemporary
Top Rated Highlights Snowy Odeonsplatz in Munich, Germany
Munich Orientation

During your orientation of the city with your Travel Director, see Feldherrnhalle in the Odeonsplatz, the Palace of the Dukes of Wittelsbach, the E...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Authentic Dining Toast to your travels in Munich, Germany
Munich Festive Dinner
Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Make Travel Matter Christmas Market in Munich, Germany
Advent Traditions Tour

Stop to taste seasonal treats as you discover the lost and forgotten Advent traditions that play a significant role in regional cultural revitalisa...

See More
Included in Trip

Make Travel Matter

Day 8

Auf Wiedersehen Munich!

Your departure transfer will be arranged to Munich Airport.

Gluhwein stand at Marienplatz Christmas market in Munich, Germany
Departure Transfer Arrive at the airport at  07:00, 09:00
Included Meals Breakfast

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Special Departure

Special Departure

Included Highlights

Top rated highlights

Learn more about the landmarks, history and culture that makes your destination special.

Top Rated Highlights
Vienna Schönbrunn Palace Private Tour

A private, guided exploration of Schönbrunn Palace will have all your senses tingling. Stand beneath frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gil...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Vienna City Tour

Join your Local Expert for a city tour that reveals both the renowned sights and hidden gems of Vienna's historic core. Travel along the Ring Road ...

See More
Included in Trip
Insight Experiences
Experience a Musical Demonstration at Mozart's Birthplace in Salzburg

Visit the house where Mozart was born in 1756. Enjoy a pianoforte demonstration and examine letters, memorabilia, and musical instruments of the gr...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Salzburg City Tour

With a Local Expert, see Mozart's family home and the 500-year-old Christmas Market in front of the cathedral. You'll also view the Hohensalzburg f...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Innsbruck Orientation

Nestled amidst majestic mountains, Innsbruck is a beautiful city offering a unique combination of nature, history, and culture. Stroll the streets ...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Innsbruck Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

Meet your coachman and enjoy a delightful horse-drawn carriage ride, surrounded by the mountains and valleys of Tyrol.

Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Oberammergau Orientation

Explore the town and see the theater where the Passion Play has been performed since 1634.

Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Munich Orientation

During your orientation of the city with your Travel Director, see Feldherrnhalle in the Odeonsplatz, the Palace of the Dukes of Wittelsbach, the E...

See More
Included in Trip
Make Travel Matter
Advent Traditions Tour

Stop to taste seasonal treats as you discover the lost and forgotten Advent traditions that play a significant role in regional cultural revitalisa...

See More
Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

4 Dinner with Wines, 7 Breakfasts

Vienna Dinner

Join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a drink, followed by a pleasant dinner with wine at a local restaurant. 

Salzburg Glühwein Tasting

At the Christmas Market, meet a local stallholder and taste the delicious gingerbread with a fragrant cup of Glühwein.

Innsbruck Restaurant Dinner

Indulge in regional specialties during dinner at a local restaurant.

Munich Festive Dinner

Hand-Picked Hotels

Stay at highly rated hotels in desirable locations offering superb service, superior rooms with comfy beds to rest in.

Hilton Vienna Park
ARCOTEL Castellani
AC Hotel Innsbruck

Optional Experiences

Sign up on tour for additional experiences that have been curated by your Travel Director from their own in-depth local knowledge.

Optional Experience
Hidden Treasures Of Old Vienna Walk

A leisurely walk with an expert historian unveils the hidden squares and tucked-away corners of the old city. See the Hofburg Palace, which was the...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Gala Viennese Concert with Dinner Option

Enjoy a wonderful concert of Viennese Classical music performed by highly-acclaimed soloists and dancers. During this special evening, enjoy a glas...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
The Sound of Music with Hellbrunn Advent Market

Today, you'll live out your own Von Trapp fantasy in Salzburg. Together with our local expert, you'll experience some of the Salzburg area's 'Favor...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Evening In The Austrian Countryside

Drive into the pretty Austrian countryside for a special evening. Learn about rural life over a homemade dinner in this cozy corner of Salzburg. In...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Bavarian Dinner

Tonight we'll soak up the lively atmosphere of a popular traditional restaurant. We'll enjoy traditional Bavarian hospitality and sample delicious regional specialties and local beer.

See More
Additional Cost Applies

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Germany & Austria

  • Official Languages across Germany and Austria German is the official language of Germany and Austria German is the official language of Austria.
  • Currency used in Germany and Austria: Euro (€)
  • Capital cities: Berlin (Germany) and Vienna (Austria)
  • Time Zone(s) in Germany and Austria: Central European Time Zone (CET), Central European Summer Time (CEST)

Germany and Austria passport, visa, and entry requirement information for US citizens.

  • Passport: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip
  • Visa Requirement: A visa is not required to enter Germany or Austria.
  • Entry Requirements: You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to getours.com/travel-requirements-restrictions.

Germany experiences a temperate seasonal climate with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Summers are generally mild to warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20° to 30°C (68° to 86°F). Winters can be cold, especially in the northern and eastern regions, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, although the summer months tend to be wetter. The coastal areas, such as Hamburg and Bremen, have a maritime climate with milder winters and cooler summers compared to the inland regions.

Austria has a diverse climate due to its varied topography, but it is predominantly characterized by a temperate continental climate. Summers are generally warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F). Winters can be cold, particularly in the mountainous regions, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and significant snowfall in the alpine areas. The western parts of Austria are influenced by the Alpine climate, with cooler temperatures and heavier precipitation, especially during the winter months. Precipitation is evenly distributed during the year, with slightly higher rainfall in the summer months.

On-Tour Luggage & Carry-On Bag Size Limits

Luggage: Each guest traveling may bring one suitcase no larger than 30” x 18” x 10" and weighing no more than 50 lb

Carry-On Bag: *Restricted to one piece per person, not to exceed 12” x 11” x 6”

  • *Please note: A "carry-on bag" on a tour coach is not the same as a "carry-on" for a flight. Because our coaches have large windows to enjoy the view, there is minimal space to store large items securely overhead or under the seats. A "carry-on bag" may be a soft-sided daypack, purse, backpack, tote bag, or the like. Because we value our guests' safety, small rolling suitcases or bags with telescopic handles are not permitted. In order to guarantee a smooth trip, guests are not permitted to store an additional "carry-on" bag beneath the coach with the luggage. 

So your driver and any hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances. 

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Packing Tips for Your Tour

Packing for a guided tour will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Here is a general packing list to help you get started:

Passport and Travel Documents: Ensure you have your passport, travel insurance, and any necessary travel documents.

Clothing:

  • Comfortable walking shoes: Cobblestone streets and uneven terrain require comfortable footwear.
  • Lightweight, breathable clothing: Pack clothes suitable for the season. Bring a mix of short-sleeved tops, lightweight pants or skirts, and a few long-sleeved options for cooler evenings for the summer months, and long-sleeved and heavier layers for early Spring, Fall, and Winter.
  • Layers: It's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater and a scarf for layering, especially in Spring or Fall.
  • Nice evening wear: You may wish to wear a dressier outfit if you plan on dining in an elegant restaurant, for example. Smart-casual clothes are usually acceptable for all included daytime and evening activities throughout your tour.
  • Rain Gear: Depending on the season and the countries you're visiting, it's a good idea to pack a compact rain jacket or umbrella.

Sun Protection:

  • Hat, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing.
  • Sunscreen with high SPF. If you're visiting any coastal areas, bring reef-safe sunscreen formulated without harmful chemicals known to be damaging to coral reefs and marine life. Traditional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been found to contribute to coral bleaching and negatively impact marine ecosystems. Look for sunscreens with certifications such as "Reef Safe," "Coral Safe," or "Ocean-Friendly" to ensure they are environmentally friendly.

Medications and First Aid:

  • Any prescription medications you need. (See more below under Health & Wellness)
  • Basic first aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.

Toiletries:

  • Travel-sized toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste.
  • Travel towel (quick-drying and compact).
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • A washcloth and carry bag (often not available in hotels abroad).

Electronics:

  • A camera: You’re traveling to see extraordinary scenery and sites. So that you don't miss a single moment, bring a trustworthy camera. Check out our travel photography tips for capturing the best photos of your trips. If you feel comfortable, you can also try the camera on your phone. However, if you want to zoom in or capture moving objects, a camera might be your best bet.
  • Mobile phone.
  • Chargers for each electronic you bring.
  • Travel adapter and/or voltage converter
  • Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
  • Small travel hair dryer (make sure you have the correct converter and adapter).

Miscellaneous:

  • A travel-friendly daypack or bag to carry your essentials during excursions.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Reusable water bottle. At GET, we’re all about caring for our planet, and with that in mind, we always recommend that you pack a reusable water bottle for your trip. Bringing your own reusable water bottle or asking for tap water at restaurants means you can make a difference by reducing your vacation plastic waste.
  • A small travel alarm.
  • A travel iron if you like your clothes to be pressed.
  • A travel pillow.

Optional:

  • Scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites or to cover up in conservative areas.
  • Light sleepwear.
  • A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here!
  • Ziplock bags (storing snacks, toiletries, and keeping things organized).

Remember to pack light and versatile items that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. Laundry facilities are often available, or you can have your clothes laundered at hotels during your trip. It's also a good idea to pack a small bag or backpack to bring on the coach for day trips and excursions, leaving your larger luggage at the hotel.

Electricity

American appliances run on 110-120 volts at 60 Hz, while European appliances run on 220-230 volts at 50 Hz.

As a result, American appliances designed for use in the United States (typically 120 volts at 60 Hz) may not be directly compatible with the higher voltage used in European countries. Plugging a 120-volt appliance into a 220-240-volt outlet without the appropriate voltage converter or transformer can cause damage to the appliance or pose safety risks.

If you plan to bring American appliances to Europe, you will need a voltage converter or transformer to change the voltage to 220-240 volts from 110 volts. Additionally, you will likely need a plug adapter to fit the American-style plug into the European power outlets. All of Europe operates on the same two round-pronged outlets (Type C).

It's important to note that not all appliances are compatible with voltage converters, so it's essential to check the labels or user manuals of your devices before using them with a voltage converter. Some electronic devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and camera chargers, are dual voltage and can support 120V and 220-240V, so they may not require a voltage converter, but a plug adapter will still be necessary.

To avoid any issues with electrical compatibility during your travels, consider purchasing appliances specifically designed for the voltage used in the region you'll be visiting or use appropriate voltage converters and plug adapters to ensure the safe operation of your American appliances in Europe.

We recommend purchasing an adapter with a voltage converter so you can pack less. And to pick up any necessary adapters or converters for your electronic devices before departing on your guided tour and bringing them with you.

Hair Dryers in Your Hotel

Hair dryers are common accessories in hotels. Should you want to bring your own, though, you will need to bring an adapter and voltage converter or make sure it is dual voltage by checking the label for INPUT AC 120V - 240V or a switch that can be set to 125V or 250V. Many devices have this feature, so it's worth checking before you travel. If you need a hair dryer during your trip but can't find one in your hotel room, you can inquire with the hotel staff. Many hotels will be able to provide a hair dryer upon request, either at the front desk or through housekeeping.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is commonly available in European hotels, restaurants, and public spaces, especially in major cities and tourist areas, but it is worth noting that the settings will differ from what you are used to in the USA.

However, it's important to note that not all accommodations or historic buildings may have air conditioning, particularly in more traditional or rural settings. Most hotels in Europe can provide a portable fan for additional room cooling if requested. Your Travel Director will be on hand to assist you throughout your trip.

Traveling by coach

Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features, including a washroom fitted for your convenience and comfort. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.

Airport transfers

Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days of your tour are complimentary only if you are traveling on a tour operated by Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, or Luxury Gold, and your flight times coincide with the shuttle-coach transfer timings. Learn more about Airport Transfers here.

To enable you to personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. The optional program is designed to let you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping with anything included in an itinerary.

The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.

Usually, most Optional Experiences will be priced in the local currency, but please read through the details of individual optional experiences for specific information. Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.

It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications.

Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these.

It's essential to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to any destination. Routine vaccinations may include vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and influenza.

When traveling with GET, baggage handling at hotels, service charges, and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will all be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are, however, a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.

Local Specialists

It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity equivalent to $1.00-$2.00 USD per person per half day.

Your Coach Driver and Travel Director

The trip cost does not include gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. At the end of your trip, you may express appreciation to your Travel Director and Driver for their excellent service and the personal attention you received. Gratuities are given at the discretion of each guest, and a suggested amount per person/per day is listed in your travel documents.

For your convenience and ease, there is an option to pre-pay gratuities for the Travel Director and Driver at the time of booking.

Hotel services

It is customary to tip hotel staff for room service delivery if the charge has not already been added to the bill. Where ice machines are not available, and you receive ice from the bar, a small tip to the bartender is always appreciated.

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Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Trusted Customer
Review date: Tuesday, December 12, 2023
Service
Reps were great when I made the first calls while signing on to the tour. They were not so great on subsequent calls when I had questions- dismissive, seemed bothered by my questions.
Response from Grand European Travel:
We apologize that our follow up service did not meet your expectations. We will use your feedback as a training opportunity for our staff and appreciate you bringing this to our attention. We do hope that you enjoyed your trip despite the extra amount of walking involved.
Monday, December 18, 2023
Vacation
Tour descriptions need to be more up front about the amount of walking required. Walking for a city or venue tour is understandable, long distance walking to dinner is not.
Jeanette Kuehner
Review date: Wednesday, December 21, 2022
Service
The trip was great a five but the booking was not a great experience, so much that I dought I will never use you again. First I called to take with Dan, who never returned my call, my parents used him, so I tried because of them. Next, I asked for a transfer to the hotel. I paid for that transfer. No one showed up. I was there early and stayed there asking everyone if they were my ride. No one answered Yes. I called the number they provided someone answered and then hung up on me. I called three times back home to you GET, to ask how do I find my ride, that I was very nervous about this and Two times a Lady(?) answered well we have sent you the information already I guess I will have to send it to you again. That was not a good answer. When someone tells you they are nervous, you do what you can. So I expect to get my money back, I know you have a policy not to do this but in this case, a change would be in order. I travel a lot and have brought my family with you all and I would think I would not want to lose a valued customer. I do expect a response, or the Better Business Bureau would love to hear about this. Jeanette Kuehner 607-739-1024
Response from Grand European Travel:
We do apologize for any miscommunication and added stress. Our Guest Relations team will reach out to you to get more details on your airport pickup.
Thursday, January 12, 2023
Vacation
The Tour guide was great and the Bus Driver was the best
Roseanne Holly
Review date: Tuesday, December 13, 2022
Service
To Whom it may concern, I recently returned from your Vienna Germany Christmas Market tour with Richard Lintott, it was one of the best tours I have taken. I have experienced dozens of vacation packages, Tauck Tours, Trafalgar , Globus besides numerous ocean cruises, Richard was one of the best tour guides I have had accompanying my trip. He was knowledgeable, organized, respectful and most of all fun. I loved that he added humor to the long bus rides along with historical insight. He knew when to talk and when to let us relax, he knew when a guest might need extra assistance and solutions for their needs. Richard is truly an asset to your tour company. Thank you, Roseanne Holly
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for taking the time to share your memories of your Christmas Markets trip and the expertise of Richard Lintott. Our Travel Directors are truly top notch and we are so happy that you enjoyed this one of a kind experience.
Wednesday, December 14, 2022
Vacation
To Whom it may concern, I recently returned from your Vienna Germany Christmas Market tour with Richard Lintott, it was one of the best tours I have taken. I have experienced dozens of vacation packages, Tauck Tours, Trafalgar , Globus besides numerous ocean cruises, Richard was one of the best tour guides I have had accompanying my trip. He was knowledgeable, organized, respectful and most of all fun. I loved that he added humor to the long bus rides along with historical insight. He knew when to talk and when to let us relax, he knew when a guest might need extra assistance and solutions for their needs. Richard is truly an asset to your tour company. Thank you, Roseanne Holly
Trusted Customer
Review date: Tuesday, December 13, 2022
Service
Travel staff was helpful, knowledgeable, and thorough. Made the booking easy.
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are so pleased to see that you enjoyed the Christmas Markets trip and appreciate you coming back to us for your third trip! Thank you so much and Happy Holidays!
Wednesday, December 14, 2022
Vacation
Hotels were wonderful, with central locations. Itinerary took in a variety of Christmas markets, but we experienced a lot more than shopping. The Vienna evening concert was a highlight, as was the piano recital at Mozart’s birthplace, and the tram/gondola ride up the mountain overlooking Innsbrook. Disappointed that we got to Oberammergau on a Sunday, when most everything was closed. Cute town, which would have been nice to visit. Visit to Dachau was moving and worthwhile. Tour guide Richard and Bus driver Steve were spectacular. Lots of nice “flurries” added to the trip. Richard’s knowledge of the area and caring manner were perfect for this trip.
Nancy
Review date: Sunday, December 11, 2022
Service
Easy to make all travel arrangements, enjoyed the off the main tourist stops. Cost of trip good.
Response from Grand European Travel:
It sounds like everything went very well and we love hearing that. Thank you for sharing your comments and Happy Holidays!
Monday, December 19, 2022
Vacation
Busy but well paced every day
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