Southern Germany & Austria: Following in Heidi’s Footsteps (8 Days, 7 Nights)
If you’re searching for a place that feels like it’s leapt straight out of the pages of a fairytale, look no further than this enchanting and timeless region.
Discover meadows overflowing with wildflowers, shimmering crystal-blue lakes, and charming Alpine villages. As you wander past royal palaces once home to "mad" kings, you'll be surrounded by the legendary Alps—a majestic mountain range whose rich history and splendor seem to surpass even its tallest peaks. You're about to embark on a journey you'll treasure forever!
Must-See Highlights:
- Explore the world-famous Hohenzollern and Neuschwanstein castles
- Stroll through idyllic Bavarian villages straight out of a storybook
- Surround yourself with snow-dusted Alpine peaks
- Visit Salzburg, Mozart’s elegant and picturesque birthplace
2 countries, 4 Destinations
Best Season for Travelling : May - November
Day 1: Blaubeuren + Hohenzollern Castle
Programme: Start your adventure with a visit to Blaubeuren’s captivating blue pond, whose vibrant color comes from limestone particles. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Blaubeuren’s charming old town before continuing to Hohenzollern Castle, the ancestral home of Prussian emperors. While exploring the castle is an experience in itself, be sure to capture its iconic silhouette from afar. A short hike will reward you with majestic panoramic views.
Day 2: Mainau Island + Lindau
Programme: Journey south to Lake Constance to explore the lush Mainau Island, a botanical paradise filled with vibrant plants, fountains, and grand mansions—ideal for a spring picnic or wander. Later, drive through scenic vineyard-covered slopes to Lindau, a medieval island town. Its lively squares, historic architecture, and waterfront bars provide a perfect setting for a memorable afternoon and evening.
Day 3: Füssen + Hohenschwangau (Neuschwanstein Castle)
Programme: Head toward the Alps, where landscapes turn more dramatic as you near Füssen, nestled at the foot of towering peaks. Stroll through this romantic town, reminiscent of Italy, with its baroque churches and medieval houses. The highlight of the day is Neuschwanstein Castle, a real-life fairytale. As you ascend the castle's hill, take in the breathtaking views of nearby lakes and Hohenschwangau Castle.
Day 4: Oberammergau
Programme: Explore the idyllic Alpine towns of Oberammergau, known for its intricate woodcarvings and hiking trails, and Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a gateway to Germany’s highest peak, Zugspitze. Make a stop at Ettal Monastery, famed for its ornate frescoes. Garmisch-Partenkirchen also hosts the famous New Year’s ski-jumping event and offers scenic cable car rides to peaceful natural areas.
Day 5: Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Programme: Explore the idyllic Alpine towns of Oberammergau, known for its intricate woodcarvings and hiking trails, and Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a gateway to Germany’s highest peak, Zugspitze. Make a stop at Ettal Monastery, famed for its ornate frescoes. Garmisch-Partenkirchen also hosts the famous New Year’s ski-jumping event and offers scenic cable car rides to peaceful natural areas.
Day 6: Innsbruck / Mittenwald
Programme: Begin your day with a scenic hike in Garmisch-Partenkirchen or continue to Mittenwald, a picturesque resort on the Austrian border. Cross into Austria and arrive in Innsbruck, known as the “Capital of the Alps.” Explore the historic old town, take in the views from Stadtturm, or ascend higher via the Patscherkofel cable car. Don’t miss the beautifully manicured gardens of Ambras Castle.
Day 7: Innsbruck
Programme: Begin your day with a scenic hike in Garmisch-Partenkirchen or continue to Mittenwald, a picturesque resort on the Austrian border. Cross into Austria and arrive in Innsbruck, known as the “Capital of the Alps.” Explore the historic old town, take in the views from Stadtturm, or ascend higher via the Patscherkofel cable car. Don’t miss the beautifully manicured gardens of Ambras Castle.
Day 8: Tyrol
Programme: Dive deeper into the Austrian Alps, passing ski hubs like Mayrhofen, Gerlos, Kaprun, Zell am See, and Saalbach Hinterglemm. During ski season, hit the slopes! In off-season, enjoy endless hiking trails and serene alpine scenery. For a more relaxed day, consider the Krimml Waterfalls or a boat ride on Lake Zell.
Day 9: Salzburg and Surroundings
Programme: Wrap up your trip with a day in Salzburg. Wander through the old town, visit the hilltop fortress, Mozart’s birthplace, or the Eagle’s Nest. Alternatively, explore the Grossglockner High Alpine Road or relax in lakeside villages like St. Gilgen. Reflect on your journey with a delicious Austrian meal and a glass of wine.
Day 10: Beilstein, Germany
Tucked along the Moselle River, Beilstein is a small village with a charming, historic atmosphere. Its cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and the 12th-century Metternich Castle make it a lovely spot to explore. Surrounded by vineyards, Beilstein offers scenic views and a chance to enjoy the local Moselle wines. Whether you’re strolling through the village or relaxing by the river, Beilstein is a peaceful destination perfect for a quiet getaway.
Day 11: Koblenz, Burg Eltz
Tucked along the Moselle River, Beilstein is a small village with a charming, historic atmosphere. Its cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and the 12th-century Metternich Castle make it a lovely spot to explore. Surrounded by vineyards, Beilstein offers scenic views and a chance to enjoy the local Moselle wines. Whether you’re strolling through the village or relaxing by the river, Beilstein is a peaceful destination perfect for a quiet getaway.
General Information
The Alps, Europe’s iconic mountain range, stretch from the French Riviera across Switzerland, northern Italy, southern Germany, and Austria, all the way to Slovenia. Austria, a landlocked gem in Central Europe, is deeply intertwined with the Alps, where hiking, skiing, and snowboarding are more than just activities—they’re part of life. With a population of 8.7 million, Austria boasts towering peaks, including the Grossglockner at 3,798 meters.
Germany’s Alpine region, though not as high, is equally stunning. The Zugspitze, at 2,962 meters, is the highest peak and a favorite for adventurers. Germany, with nearly 83 million residents, blends bustling cities with serene Alpine escapes, offering something for everyone.
Travel Documents
Austria and Germany are part of the Schengen zone, requiring a valid passport and visa for non-EU visitors. For Turkish nationals, passports must be valid at least three months beyond your departure date. Visa applications open three months before travel and should be submitted at least 15 working days in advance. Be mindful of the timeline, as processing can take up to 60 days in rare cases.
Planning a detour to Switzerland or Liechtenstein? Different visa requirements may apply.
Culture & People
Few regions celebrate life like Bavaria and Tyrol. These areas radiate Gemütlichkeit, the uniquely German sense of warmth, cheer, and hospitality. From local festivals to centuries-old traditions, you’ll see pride in every architectural detail, traditional costume, and regional delicacy.
Expect a delightful blend of old-world charm and contemporary flair, from Salzburg’s opera houses to Bavaria’s beer gardens. Art, music, and an appreciation for nature are woven into the cultural fabric here.
Climate
The Alpine climate is as varied as its landscapes. Summers are mild, with temperatures around 20–25°C, making it ideal for hiking and exploring. Winters, on the other hand, transform the region into a snowy paradise, with subzero temperatures perfect for skiing.
Cuisine
Bavaria’s beer culture is world-famous, with Munich’s Oktoberfest as its crown jewel. Traditional breweries, beer gardens, and hearty meals are staples of the region. Think bratwurst, pretzels, dumplings, and sauerkraut.
Austria’s culinary scene is equally enticing, featuring Wiener Schnitzel, Apfelstrudel, and decadent desserts like the Sachertorte. Don’t forget to try the crisp, refreshing white wines of the region, perfect for pairing with your meals.
Money Matters
The euro is the currency in both Germany and Austria. While credit cards are widely accepted, cash is still preferred in many smaller towns and local establishments. It’s always a good idea to have some euros on hand.
- Soft drinks or coffee: €2–3.50
- Light lunch: €8–12
- Dinner with dessert: €25–35
Germany tends to be slightly more affordable than Austria, though tourist hotspots may reflect higher prices.
Practicalities
- Electricity: Both countries use 230V plugs.
- Health & Safety: Ensure your travel insurance covers medical costs abroad and any unexpected changes.
- Time Difference: Germany and Austria are CMT+1
