JayWay made planning this trip easy and very flexible. We had numerous options to pick from, but never felt overwhelmed, and the staff did the hard work so we could focus on enjoying ourselves.
- Christopher, Gretchen, Anneliese & August - Wisconsin
The Best Hiking Experience in Salzkammergut, Tyrol and Bavaria
- Price
- from $4,950
- Duration
- 10 days
- Destinations
- Munich, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Innsbruck, Salzburg, Munich
Get a price estimate for this trip
An extraordinary active holiday is on offer now for travelers who prefer to be in motion. After landing in Munich, your trip starts in picturesque, lush, and authentic Garmisch-Partenkirchen, where you will conquer Germany's highest peak, the Zugspitze. Next you'll journey into Austria, to a city that hosted the Winter Olympics, Innsbruck. After an introductory walk, we leave time at your discretion to take cable cars up to the summits of the Nordkette for breathtaking views. Experience what it is like to stay active in the "City of Mozart" and do sports within Salzburg's city limits. At your last destination, in Munich, we will direct you to a lakeside where you can trace the footprints of Empress Elizabeth, aka Sisi, on foot or by bike. Our suggestions and your local expert will support you in shaping your dream active vacation in Germany and Austria.
This active itinerary with inclusive hikes and city tours, accommodations, and the practical combination of private transfers and train rides, is ideal for nature-lover families with older kids, couples, and groups of friends. Tell your friends where you are going for a holiday and let them join you! The scenic and famed hiking destinations of Germany and Austria await.
In addition to the tours included we can arrange a number of excursions based on your own interests. All of our tours are custom, and this is just a sample meant to give an idea of what our trips are like, and the opportunities our destinations provide.
One of our team members in the region will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange additional local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these destinations have to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon your arrival, we will provide you with a local SIM that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3-5 star accommodation options, including boutique hotels, charming B&Bs, and spacious apartments. With our first-hand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambience.
Itinerary
Day 1 Day Stop in Munich / Arrival in Garmisch-Partenkirchen
With its traditional beer halls, designer shops, trendy restaurants and international business, Munich is a mix of old and new, German and cosmopolitan. Largely rebuilt after World War II, the city still retains its old world charm, even in the midst of expansion and modernization. You’ve probably heard of the city’s world famous Oktobertfest, a once-in-a-lifetime party dedicated to that incredible Bavarian beer along with some of the local delicacies, including tasty schnitzel. But there’s much more to Munich than drinking, and on your holiday you’ll have the chance to discover the best this charming city has to offer. Don’t miss out on the beer halls and the breweries, but be sure to get off the beaten path to discover a Munich of your own. Much of the city’s past centers around World War II, and there are several ways you can explore this chapter of Munich’s history, including a day trip to the Dachau concentration camp and a special tour focusing on Hitler and the local activities of the Third Reich. Munich is also a center of industry and there is nowhere better to experience this than BMW World. Moving slightly farther afield, Neuschwanstein Castle makes the perfect day trip, perched high in the hills over a verdant valley. Munich’s variety means there’s more than enough to satisfy even the most diverse groups of travelers. Let your curiosity guide you as you explore this unique German city.Today a private driver will pick you up at your accommodations and take you to the mountain paradise of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the drive takes about a 1 hour and 15 minutes. If you'd like, we can arrange a stop along the way for an additional fee. We recommend visiting the famous castle of Neuschwanstein little towns - Schwangau and Füssen. Our local representative will gladly suggest the best stop based on your preferences.Originally two separate towns, Garmisch and Partenkirchen were united by Hitler in order to host the 1936 Winter Olympics. These ancient towns (Partenkirchen was founded by the Romans as "Partanum") still share a bit of a rivalry, as well as endless beauty. Look up, and you'll find the Zugspitze, Germany's tallest mountain. Look around and you'll find herds of cows passing through en route to alpine meadows, and wooden homes covered in meticulous religious and historic paintings. Home to some of Germany's best skiing and hiking, Garmisch-Partenkirchen has been a popular spot for GIs seeking R&R since the 1950s.Upon your arrival in Germisch-Partenkirchen your driver will take you directly to your accommodation.
Ride Gondolas up the Peaks
One of the best ways to fully take in the beauty of Garmisch-Partenkirchen's surroundings is by riding the region's many cable cars. You can ride the Hausbergbahn up the Hausberg, 1,338m (4,389 feet) above sea level. Alternatively, you can take the Kreuzeckbahn up to the Kreuzeck, 1,650m (5413 feet) high, which still features the ski runs used for the 1936 Winter Olympics, plus stunning views of Garmisch-Partenkirchen below. Ride the Wankbahn up the Wank, where you can enjoy a meal at the, yes, Wank-Haus, 1,780m (5,839 feet) above sea level, or even paraglide back down. Finally, if you find yourself by the Olympic Ski Stadium, let the Eckbauerbahn whisk you up the slopes of the 1,236m (4,055 feet) Eckbauerberg.Suggestion to explore on your own
Day 2 Your First Full Day in Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Garmisch-Partenkirchen Private Walking Tour
Garmisch-Partenkirchen sits at the heart of a medieval trade route, giving the town a surprisingly unique and diverse history. More recently, the 1936 Winter Olympics, rise of Nazism and the American occupation that followed, have made their marks on this alpine paradise. This tour that takes you around town, but also beyond its borders, providing insights into the history, art, architecture, cuisine, and people of this sublime alpine community.Included in your vacation package price
Climb the Alpspitze
High atop the Alpspitze, the pyramidal mountain that serves as Garmisch-Partenkirchen's symbol is the AlpspiX, an X-shaped observation platform offering breathtaking views all around. You can take three different cable cars up, then enjoy the Via ferrata (a.k.a. "Klettersteig") paths of varying difficulty and length to get back down. Begin your trip by taking a train to the Kreuzeck-Alpspitzbahn station.Suggestion to explore on your own
Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Zugspitze Mountain Private Tour
This is the perfect chance to explore the tallest mountain in Germany! Following an exciting cable car ride to the peak, this full day tour commences with an introduction to the engineering, World War II history, glacial melt, and local lore of the mountain. Peppered with entertaining anecdotes, this tour is guaranteed to please the scientist, alpinist, and disinterested teen alike! Next, we wander over to Austria for lunch. That was no typo—the Zugspitze spans the border between Austria and Germany, guaranteeing a visit to two countries in one day! After lunch, we head back down to Garmisch-Partenkirchen and make our way to the Olympic Ski Stadium featured in the 1936 Winter Olympics. Finally, we meander into the Partenkirchen, to explore one of Bavaria’s most beautiful streets, Ludwigstrasse.Included in your vacation package price
Day 4 Traveling to Innsbruck by Train / Arrival in Innsbruck
Today you will travel from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to Innsbruck by train. A driver will pick you up from your accommodations at the time of your choosing. The train ride takes about an hour and 20 minutes. We included second-class tickets, but can upgrade to first-class for an additional fee.
You can upgrade your transfer
Innsbruck by Private Transfer
Upgrade for an additional cost
Having hosted several Olympics, Innsbruck has an international reputation as a winter sports destination. Nestled in an alpine valley, the city is surrounded by picturesque mountains complete with ski slopes and funiculars. Whether you’re there in the winter or summer, you can have an active vacation in the mountains. In the town itself, you’ll find charming cobblestone streets, winding alleyways, quaint cafes and welcoming restaurants serving hearty Tyrolean cuisine. Innsbruck is a unique destination that combines breathtaking natural scenery with a comfortable, small-town feel. There’s a mix of Imperial Austrian architecture and newer creations, so just strolling the streets offers a feast for the eyes. The restaurants here are also wonderful, with a variety of cuisines ranging from traditional to contemporary with a youthful edge, thanks to its many students. Innsbruck is a place where you can really unwind and enjoy your vacation at your own pace.A driver will greet you at the train station and take you to your accommodation in the center of Innsbruck.
Muttereralm's Mountain Carts
The mountain cart ride in Muttereralm is a fun activity just outside Innsbruck. Tobogganing fast or slow, you will follow a five-kilometer track down into the valley below. The track's views are amazing, and after the ride, you can continue to explore the area on a hike. The carts can be ridden daily from May to September, and on weekends the rest of the year.Suggestion to explore on your own
Day 5 Your First Full Day in Innsbruck
Innsbruck at its Best
Discover historical highlights of Innsbruck with a knowledgeable and passionate tour guide who will show you and tell everything you could wish to learn about the city. Your walk will take you through the Gothic Old Town, the Arch of Triumph, the St. Anne's column as well the imperial palace court and the St. James Cathedral. You'll get a chance to admire the magnificent Baroque architecture, and to savor the city's panoramic views of the impressive peaks of the Nordkette mountains.Included in your vacation package price
Innsbruck Olympic Private Tour
Get a closer look at some of the modern and traditional architecture in and around Innsbruck. Your tour guide will drive you to the Bergisel Ski Jump to show you this stunning architectural landmark above the city, along with other facilities built for the Winter Olympic Games. This private tour gives you the chance to have a closer look at the rural town of Lans as well a short stop by the Ambras Castle, home of unique art collections from the Renaissance onwards.
Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package
Hike to the Best Vistas
Combine hiking and the best views of Innsbruck by heading to the Hungerburgbahn funicular. Take a scenic ride by a cable car up to Seegrube, 1905 meters (6250 feet) above sea level. The hike back to the town by following 12 kilometre / 7 mile path, which should take about three hours. Alternatively, you can conquer the Seegrube, an hour and half hike from the Hungerburg station, or ride the Nordkette cable car to the top, 2,269 meters (7444 feet) above sea level, a popular spot for skiing.Suggestion to explore on your own
Day 6 Traveling to Salzburg by Train / Arrival in Salzburg
Today you'll be heading to Salzburg by train. There are several daily departures. We'll arrange second-class tickets for you, and can also reserve first-class tickets for an extra fee if you prefer. We also included a transfer to Innsbruck's train station.
You can upgrade your transfer
Salzburg by Private Transfer with a Stop at the Swarovski Museum
Upgrade for an additional cost
With its perfectly preserved UNESCO-listed Old Town, Salzburg is internationally renowned for its baroque architecture. Add in the alpine backdrop and you’ve got a city that makes for an unforgettable vacation. The imposing Salzburg Cathedral and Hohensalzburg Fortress dominate the skyline, while in the center you’ll find plenty of grand cafes and fine restaurants. Salzburg’s two biggest claims to fame are that it was the birthplace of Mozart and the stage for the timeless musical The Sound of Music. But there’s more than just history here. Today the city is a vibrant destination for travelers looking for a mix of classic culture and modern flair. Strolling through Salzburg is one of the great pleasures of Europe. The local cuisine is hearty and there are more than enough restaurants, bars, and cafes to keep you busy. Beer lovers shouldn’t miss sampling a stein or two of delicious local brew at the Augustiner brewery. But there is so much to see in the surrounding region that no visit to the city is complete without a day trip or two. You could tour the pristine countryside and visit the stunning Hellbrunn Palace. History buffs will want to venture farther afield to visit Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest perched high in the German Alps in Berchtesgaden.Upon your arrival in Salzburg a driver will meet you at the train station and bring you to your hotel.
Salzburg Private Walking Tour
Discover the beauty of Mozart's hometown as an experienced guide leads you on a walk through the UNESCO-listed city of Salzburg. Your walk includes all the sightseeing highlights, such Mozart's birthplace and residence, the Getreidegasse, Cathedral, Residenz Palace, and Mirabell Palace, with its splendid gardens. If you come across anywhere you'd like to spend more time and go inside, your expert local guide will tailor the tour to your interests.
Included in your vacation package price
Day 7 Your First Full Day in Salzburg
Stay Active in the City of Mozart
Take advantage of the stunning nature surrounding Salzburg and explore the the countryside with an experienced mountain guide. You can opt for an easy mostly flat route or a more demanding hiking trail and conquer one of the numerous hills around Salzburg. Be ready for green meadows, crystal clear rivers, and amazing views. Standup paddling is a cool new way how to explore Salzburg from the Salzach river, enjoying stunning views of its fortress, churches, and mountains. Learn tricks for paddling and steering, and the ideal way how to maneuver through the water to enjoy Salzburg and its surrounding nature.Included in your vacation package price
Salzburg Region Private Hiking Tour
Take advantage of the stunning nature surrounding Salzburg and explore the the countryside with an experienced mountain guide. You can opt for an easy mostly flat route or a more demanding hiking trail and conquer one of the numerous hills around Salzburg. Be ready for green meadows, crystal clear rivers, and amazing views.Included in your vacation package price
Salzburg Private Standup Paddling
Standup paddling is a cool new way how to explore Salzburg from the Salzach river, enjoying stunning views of its fortress, churches, and mountains. Learn tricks for paddling and steering, and the ideal way how to maneuver through the water to enjoy Salzburg and its surrounding nature.Included in your vacation package price
Salzburg Tandem Paragliding Excursion
Enjoy a bird's eye view of Salzburg! Hop aboard a local bus to the top of Mt. Gaisberg, where you'll meet your flight master, receive safety instructions, and get ready for an absolutely scenic flight. Take off, and take in Salzburg and its alpine surroundings from high above, a truly unforgettable experience!Included in your vacation package price
Day 8 Traveling to Munich by Train / Arrival in Munich
You are off to the traditional Bavarian capital of Munich today. Relax, it's an easy 1.5-hour train journey, and there are a variety of trains running throughout the day. We'll book second class tickets on the train of your choice and arrange for a driver to pick you up from your accommodations and take you to the Salzburg train station. An upgrade to first class tickets or a private transfer is available for an additional fee.
You can upgrade your transfer
Munich by Private Transfer with a Stop at Neuschwanstein Castle
Upgrade for an additional cost
With its traditional beer halls, designer shops, trendy restaurants and international business, Munich is a mix of old and new, German and cosmopolitan. Largely rebuilt after World War II, the city still retains its old world charm, even in the midst of expansion and modernization. You’ve probably heard of the city’s world famous Oktobertfest, a once-in-a-lifetime party dedicated to that incredible Bavarian beer along with some of the local delicacies, including tasty schnitzel. But there’s much more to Munich than drinking, and on your holiday you’ll have the chance to discover the best this charming city has to offer. Don’t miss out on the beer halls and the breweries, but be sure to get off the beaten path to discover a Munich of your own. Much of the city’s past centers around World War II, and there are several ways you can explore this chapter of Munich’s history, including a day trip to the Dachau concentration camp and a special tour focusing on Hitler and the local activities of the Third Reich. Munich is also a center of industry and there is nowhere better to experience this than BMW World. Moving slightly farther afield, Neuschwanstein Castle makes the perfect day trip, perched high in the hills over a verdant valley. Munich’s variety means there’s more than enough to satisfy even the most diverse groups of travelers. Let your curiosity guide you as you explore this unique German city.When you arrive at Munich Hauptbahnhof you will easily find the station’s taxi rank signposted. We haven’t included a transfer here because in our experience meet & greet transfer services in Munich are overpriced, unreliable and the driver can be hard to locate in the vast station. Munich’s taxis are honest, reasonably priced and you’ll have no problem finding one at the station’s taxi rank, so you’ll save both time and money by taking one to your centrally located accommodation.
See the Skyline from Inside the Bavaria Statue
Theresienwiese is best known as the spot where Oktoberfest and other festivals are held. Looking over the grounds is grand "Bavaria," the personification of the German state. This 60-foot bronze statue of a woman with her left arm raised is flanked by a loyal woman. For a small fee, you can duck inside, and climb the winding stairs within. At the top, you can peer out from Bavaria's head, taking in views of the Oktoberfest grounds and Munich's skyline beyond. Complete with pillow-topped bronze sofas, the statue's interior features surprisingly whimsical touches.Suggestion to explore on your own
Day 9 Your First Full Day in Munich
Munich Bike Group Tour
Hop aboard a bike and enjoy a fun and active tour of Munich, one of the most fascinating cities in Germany. You'll see all of the most famous sights in the center of the city and also explore some of the lesser-known but not less notable neighborhoods. From historic architecture to contemporary beer halls, you'll get a better understanding of the city and its special character. Led by an expert guide, the tour will be a highlight during your stay in Munich.
Included in your vacation package price
Biking and Hiking around the Starnberger See
A brief journey south of Munich reveals an area adorned with numerous lakes, including the expansive Starnberger See, ranking among Germany's largest. The mostly level 50km (31 miles) trail along its shores offers an excellent blend of biking or hiking with opportunities for swimming and relaxation. As you traverse the path, you'll encounter numerous inviting spots to make the most of the lake's crystalline waters. Conveniently, you can catch an S-Bahn train to Starnberg, renowned as Germany's wealthiest town, departing from Munich's main station every half hour. A 35-minute ride will bring you to your destination, where you can easily rent a bike from the "Bike It" rental shop next to the station. While exploring, be sure not to miss Rose Island at the lake's center, accessible via the numerous ferries and tour boats, and the charming Possenhofen Castle, Empress Elisabeth's favored summer retreat.Suggestion to explore on your own
Day 10 Departure Day
Based on your departure time, a driver will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to Munich's airport.
Munich, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Innsbruck and Salzburg
What's Included in your trip
Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes. Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.
Included
- 3 nights accommodation in Garmisch-Partenkirchen
2 nights accommodation in Innsbruck
2 nights accommodation in Salzburg
2 nights accommodation in Munich - Breakfast (hotels only)
- Munich - Garmisch-Partenkirchen Private Transfer
Garmisch-Partenkirchen Train Station Transfer
Innsbruck Train Station Transfer
Innsbruck Train Station Transfer
Salzburg Train Station Transfer
Salzburg Train Station Transfer
Munich Airport Transfer - Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Innsbruck Train
Innsbruck - Salzburg Train
Salzburg - Munich Train - Garmisch-Partenkirchen Private Walking Tour
Zugspitze Mountain Private Tour
Innsbruck Private Walking Tour
Salzburg Private Walking Tour
Salzburg Region Private Hiking Tour
Salzburg Private Standup Paddling
Munich Bike Group Tour
What's excluded in your package
- Flights to and from Europe.
- Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
- Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
- Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
- Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
Benefits of traveling with JayWay
A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.
A travel advisor who speaks your language
We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.
Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day
Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.
A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation
Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.
A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions
We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.
Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out
Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.
On-trip concierge service to smooth out any bumps in the road
Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.
Glowing Reviews From Our Guests
Don't wait to make memories-make them now! Take the plunge and go on the trip your been thinking about taking forever-you won't regret it!!!
- Tonya, Stephan & Marissa - Colorado
The mountains were more than we could’ve hoped for. The support of the JayWay staff is so important for safe smooth travel.
- Jana & Timothy - California