NEW! Oberammergau, Innsbruck & the Rhine

Explore historic sights and revel in the charm of Innsbruck during a walk through the Altstadt, or Old Town. Drive from your hotel to meet your guide. See the Hofburg, the opulent, former imperial palace of the Hapsburg Dynasty. Pass by the baroque facade of the Cathedral of St. James, majestically looming over the roofs of the city since the 12th century, and the 143-foot-tall Stadtturm (City Tower). Finish your walk at the Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof), a striking balcony with a roof composed of more than 2,500 fire-gilded copper tiles. The balcony, Innsbruck’s most famous landmark, was a wedding gift from Emperor Maximilian I to his second wife. Afterward, enjoy free time to explore on your own. You may choose to stroll to the Triumphpforte (Triumphal Arch), built in 1765 to commemorate the wedding of Archduke Leopold, before returning to your hotel.

Venture to the summit of Austria’s largest nature park and take in the views during a picnic featuring local dishes. With your guide, ascend to a mountain plateau via the Hungerburgbahn funicular, a modern railway designed by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid. From Herman Buhl Square, take a series of cable cars up to the summit of Nordkette. At the top, enjoy the breathtaking 360° views across Innsbruck and the Austrian Alps. Descend to Seegrube, where you will set off on a scenic walking trail that leads to a freshly prepared picnic. Here, sit back and enjoy a spread of local favorites, including meats, cheese, pickles and condiments, accompanied by a drink. As you dine, relax amid the dramatic scenery and capture the picturesque views before descending Nordkette and returning to the city.

Step into Swarovski’s World of Crystals where you will walk through its glittering exhibits. Begin at the Giant, a representation of local legends made of topiary and crystals, that sits over the entrance to a collection of exhibits. Here, walk through fantasy worlds inspired by leading designers and artists, including an exhibit by André Heller built to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Swarovski. Take in the intricate crystal installations as you walk through the Chambers of Wonder, based on the historic chambers of the Castle of Ambras. In the garden, see the Crystal Cloud, where crowns of crystals sit suspended above the Mirror Pool. After your visit, you will have free time to explore on your own. Perhaps visit the gift shop, walk through the tranquil gardens, or see more of the impressive exhibits, before returning to your hotel.

Immerse yourself in Austria’s vibrant and colorful cultural traditions during an evening of food, dance and wine. For centuries, folk music has played an important part in the daily life of Austrians. Take a seat and enjoy a lively ensemble of dancers, singers and musicians in traditional dress as they regale you with songs that tell stories that have been passed down through the generations. Clap along to their energetic performances that capture the charm of the alpine region as you enjoy a typical Austrian dinner of Tyrolean fare, accompanied by wine or beer. Then, stamp your feet to the Holzhackertanz (woodchopper’s dance) and watch a performance of the Schuhplattler—a thigh-slapping, shoe-tapping jig performed as a courtship ritual by male dancers. After an uplifting evening of festive entertainment, you will return to your hotel near Innsbruck.