Day 1: Sept 15 Meeting, Dinner
We’ll gather in our ‘storybook’ accommodation of Burg Reichenstein for our traditional get-acquited meeting. We’ll conclude our evening with dinner together in our romantic castle hotel.

Day 2: Rheinfels, Rhein Cruise
We begin our first full day together with a tour of Rheinfels Castle, mightiest on the Rhein. Perched high above the river, this fortress offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval life and military architecture. Its sprawling ruins include tunnels, massive stone walls, and a small but engaging museum. In the afternoon, we’ll return to Reichenstein via a classic Rhein cruise, where medieval castles crown vineyard-covered hills and charming villages line the riverbanks. This iconic stretch of the Middle Rhein is both scenic and historic, capturing the romantic heart of Germany.

Burg Reichenstein (2 nights)

Day 3: Prince Bishop’s Palace, Night Watchman’s Tour
We set out across southern Germany today in our private coach. Along the way we’ll visit the Prince‑Bishops’ Palace, a Baroque masterpiece. Tiepolo frescoes and guilded stucco halls highlight the tour while utside, the meticulously landscaped Court Garden is a wonder of geometric harmony. In the evening, you’ll enjoy a classic Romantic Road experience - Rothenberg’s Night Watchman’s Tour.

Hotel Eisenhut (1 night)

Day 4: Ulm Munster, Luge
Today is a travel day as we head further south to Fussen, gateway to Mad Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein Castle. Enroute we’ll stop for Ulm’s magnificent cathedral. This 14th-15th century Gothic marvel boasts the tallest church spire in the world at 530 feet. It’s intricate façade, soaring nave, and stunning stained glass windows reflect centuries of craftsmanship and devotion. Upon our arrivel, if time and weather allow, we’ll indulge in a few runs of the nearby mountain luge.

Day 5: Füssen  
Neuschwanstein, Wieskirche
A highlight of any German tour, our morning’s visit to Neuschwanstein will check the box on many a bucket list. Lugwig’s fairytale-like masterpiece blended romantic medieval style and 19th-century grandeur. Its turrets, dramatic cliffside setting, and lavish interiors inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle and continue to captivate visitors worldwide. Nearby, the Wieskirche is a stunning example of Bavarian Rococo. Its white and gold interior, delicate stuccowork, and pastel frescoes make it one of the most beautiful churches in Europe.

Hotel Schlosskrone (2 nights)

Day 6: Linderhof, Andechs
Today we are off to Munich, Bavaria’s storied capital. Before departing the Alpine south, we’ll take in another of Ludwig’s creations - Schloss Linderhof. This smallest and most intimate of Ludwig’s royal retreats, is a jewel of opulent Baroque design. Surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens and whimsical structures, Linderhof uniquely reflects Ludwig’s romantic imagination and love for theatrical beauty. We’ll make a lunch stop at Andechs Monastery. A centuries-old pilgrimage site, Andechs has attracted visitors for worship, wonder, and authentic hospitality from the monastery’s brewhouse where they still offers monk-brewed beers and hearty Bavarian fare.

Day 7: Walking Tour, Oktoberfest
We’ll begin our Munich explorations with a walking tour of the Old Town city center. This ‘birthplace’ of Hitler’s National Socialist (Nazi) Party provides a backdrop to a fascinating but dark history. In the afternoon, we’ll lighten our spirits with a visit to iconic Octoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival. The Theresienwiese (festival ‘meadow’) comes alive with massive beer tents and the aroma of sausage and pretzels. Bavarian culture is celebrated with lively music, traditional attire, and overflowing steins of beer.

Ruby Rosi Hotel (2 nights)

Day 8: Konigsee Cruise
After the torrid pace of our first week, we’ll all be ready for a liesurely day. We’ll indulge in a late morning in Munich before departing for our next destination of Berchtesgaden. Upon our arrival we’ll have a cruise on the stunning Konigsee, surrounded by the Bavarian Alps of the Berchtesgaden National Park.

Day 9: Eagle’s Nest
Perched atop a dramatic peak in the Bavarian Alps, the Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus) was built as a mountain retreat for Hitler. While its dark past is acknowledged, the site now serves as a place of remembrance and reflection as well as natural beauty. In addition to the mountain-top excursion, we’ll take time to learn more about the Third Reich at the Documentation Center.

Hotel Alpina Ros (2 nights)

Day 10: Salzburg Walking Tour
Our destination today is world-famous Hallstatt. But before heading to the countryside, we’ll spend a good part of our day in nearby Salzburg.  Nestled along the Salzach River, renowned as the birthplace of Mozart and the backdrop for The Sound of Music, its UNESCO listed Old Town delights with elegant churches, cobbled streets, and the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress above. We’ll enjoy a walking tour of this delightful area before allowing everyone free time to explore.

Day 11: Free Day
Today is your vacation from your vacation. You can take a hike to a waterfall, do a salt mine tour, cruise around the lake, take a mountain excursion, or simply relax and recharge in this beautiful setting.

Hotel Heritage (2 nights)

Day 12: Melk Abbey
The tour’s final destination is Vienna, the elegant capital of Austria. As the seat of the powerful Habsburg dynasty, Vienna became the center of cultural patronage and architectural grandeur. But along the way we’ll stop in at Melk Abbey. This magnificent Benedictine monastery features grand halls, gilded ceilings, and a stunning library filled with ancient manuscripts while the surrounding views of the Wachau Valley add to the sense of awe and serenity.

Day 13: Walking Tour, Treasury, Fine Arts Museum
We’ll begin our final blockbuster day with a walking our of the historic center. As capital of the expansive Hapsburg Empire, the ‘Imperial flavor’ of Vienna is everywhere in its streets, historic cafes, and grand buildings. We’ll get our taste of Hapsburg grandeur by including a guided visit to the palace Treasury Museum and entrance to the vast art collection of the Kunsthistorische Museum.

Flemings Hotel (2 nights)

Day 14: Tour over Tour over after breakfast. Imprint will assist with station or airport transfers.

[Hotels and tour activities are subject to change.]

Experience the heart of Europe on this immersive journey through Germany and Austria. From the fairy-tale castles of Bavaria to the classical elegance of Vienna, this tour blends rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural delights. Explore charming medieval towns, cruise the scenic Rhein, stroll through grand palaces, and visit fairytale castles. Whether you're sipping local beer in Munich or admiring alpine views in Berchtesgaden, this adventure offers a perfect balance of old-world charm and unforgettable experiences. 

· Oktoberfest – Munich’s world-famous festival of beer, bratwurst, and ‘oom-pah-pah’ bands.

· Castles & Palaces – Start by sleeping in Burg Reichenstein and touring Rheinfels on the Rhein and then visits to the Prince-Bishop’s Palace, Neuschwanstein, and Linderhof.

· Majestic Cruises – Classic Rhein and Konigsee cruises.

· Churches & Cathedrals – awesome Ulm Munster, jewel-like Wieskirche, Baroque Andechs, Melk Abbey, and St Stephans in Vienna.

· Great Cities – walking tours of Munich, Salzburg, and Vienna.

· Stunning nature – Hallstatt, the Rhein River, the Eagles Nest, and the Bavarian Alps.

· Entertainment – Rothenburg’s Night Watchman’s tour and mountain luge.

· Art & Imperial Splendor – Hapsburg Treasury and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

Visa Requirements:  U.S. and Canadian citizens do not need a visa to visit the EU. However, Europe may be requiring the ETIAS travel authorization form to be completed prior to arrival. It is the traveler's sole responsibility to ensure all entrance requirements have been met.

Registration and Deposit

Q: What should I expect after registering and paying the deposit for the tour?

A: You will receive a confirmation email welcoming you to the tour. This email will include a link to a 'Manage Booking' page where you can view and edit all your trip details. Also included is your deposit receipt, payment schedule, and information for purchasing travel insurance. Imprint Tours STRONGLY recommends purchasing trip insurance.

Q: Is my deposit refundable?

A: Your deposit is refundable for 30 days, after which it is non-refundable for any reason.

Flight Information

Q: Are flights included?

A: International Flights to/from the tour are NOT included.

Q: What airport do I use to join the tour?

A: The tour starts in Trechtingshausen on Sept 15 (late afternoon). The closest airport is Frankfurt (FRA).

Q: Should I arrive early for the tour?

A: When you arrive is entirely up to you. Most Imprint travelers arrive 1 day early.

Q: What airport do I use to depart the tour?

A: The tour ends in Vienna (VIE) on Sept 28, after breakfast.

Q: Can I skip breakfast on the final day and depart early that morning?

A: Yes, you are not obliged to partake of the final breakfast, nor will you miss any tour activities.

Q: Does Imprint provide or arrange airport transfers?

A: No, airport transfers to join or depart the tour are the traveler's responsibility to arrange. Basic information will be included in the 8-Week Letter. 

Q: Does Imprint provide advice about airlines, routing, or booking?

A: No, Imprint does not provide these services.

Q: When should I book my flight?

A: Avoid booking flights before Jan 15, 2026 unless you confirm the tour status.

Q: Do I need to check the tour status after Jan 15?

A: No, if you have not received a cancellation notice from Imprint by Jan 15, you may assume the tour is a go.

Tour start/end

Q: What time will the tour start on Sept 15?

A: 17:00 (5:00PM) 

Q: What time will the tour end on Sept 28?

A: After breakfast

Q: Can I skip breakfast on the final day and depart early that morning?

A: Yes, you are not obliged to partake of the final breakfast, nor will you miss any tour activities.

Payment: Early Pay Discount (EPD) and Full Price

Q: How do I take advantage of the Early Pay Discount (EPD)

A: To receive the $300 EPD, you must register for the EPD price and pay in full by the designated date. You will receive a notice of final payment due one week prior. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding EPD as cancellation incurs a penalty.

Q: If I’ve chosen to take advantage of the Early Pay Discount (EPD), and subsequently cancel, what penalties will I incur?

A: If you’ve opted for the EPD and paid in full, but then cancel, your deposit plus $400 of the EPD price is non-refundable. If no deposit has been paid, $1000 of the EPD price is non-refundable.

Q: If I have registered for the EPD price, but then need to switch to 'full price' and pay my balance later, can Imprint accommodate me?

A: Yes, we can switch packages for you. Simply send us an email - info@imprinttours.com

Q: Can I pay with a Credit Card?

A: Yes, you can opt to pay via Credit Card. However, you must pay the Credit Card fees, which are non-refundable in the case of cancellation. 

Q: Can I avoid the Credit Card fees?

A: Yes, you can pay via ACH transfer without fees. 

Q: Can I choose to delay final payment until June 15, 2026?

A: Yes, you must register for a Full Price package, then pay your balance due by June 15 You will receive a notice of final payment due one week prior.

Q: Is there any penalty for cancellation of a non-EPD registration?

A: No, there is no penalty for cancellation until June 15. However, your deposit is forfeit if the 30 days has elapsed (see above).

Q: What if I have to cancel after June 15?

A: After June 15, 2026 all payments are final and non-refundable for any reason. 

Pre-Departure Information

Q: What should I do to prepare for the tour?

A: About 8 weeks before departure, you'll receive a detailed email with a packing list, sightseeing suggestions, and other important information. Meanwhile, ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date and has two clean pages for visa stamps.

Pre- and Post-Tour Hotels

Q: Since Imprint is unable to assist with pre- and post-tour hotel bookings, how do I book non-tour hotel nights?

A: For pre-tour nights, book the Burg Reichenstein. For post-tour nights, we will be using Flemings Hotel. Bookings are under Imprint Tours, standard rooms. Final hotel bookings with roster names will be made about 60 days prior to the tour start.

Q: If I want to book pre-tour nights in Burg Reichenstein can Imprint assist in making sure I stay in the same room when the tour begins?

A: No, Imprint is unable to assist with this. You must deal directly with the hotel to make any special arrangements.

Q: What if the first and/or last tour hotels are fully booked for the pre- and/or post-tour nights I am interested in?

A: You must make your own alternative arrangements. We suggest using your favorite hotel booking engine to choose an accommodation with the location, price, and standard of your choice.

Tour Hotels

Q: If I need a complete list of tour hotels, where do I find that?

A: Hotels are listed in the itinerary section above.

Q: Will there be hair dryers available in the hotels?
A: Yes, hair dryers are available.

Q: Will there be opportunity to do laundry during the tour?
A: Yes, there are laundry facilities available.

Important Reminders

Q: Are there any critical things I need to keep in mind?

A:

• Print and keep the confirmation letter for reference.

• If your passport will expire between now and 6 months beyond your intended departure from Europe, it is your sole responsibility to update your registration information in We Travel. You can use the link in your confirmation email to return to your account to make edits. Imprint Tours is not responsible for reminding you to update your information nor for any problems with booking delays due to incorrect passport data.

• Add reid@imprinttours.com to your email address book.

• Download & activate Whatsapp for essential on-tour communications.

• Check your bank’s policy on international ATM withdrawal and/or Credit Card fees.

Health and Safety

Q: What health precautions should I take?

A: Visit the CDC website or your local travel medicine clinic for suggested inoculations for Germany and Austria. We cannot advise on inoculations due to liability concerns.
This tour involves moderate to demanding physical activity, including walking tours, climbing steps, and excursions to natural sites with uneven terrain. Participants should be in good health and capable of handling such activities.

Tour Member Expectations

Q: What mindset should I have for the tour?

A: Be flexible, respectful, independent-minded, and personally responsible. Expect challenges and surprises, especially in less-developed areas. Positive, flexible attitudes contribute to a better group experience.

Travel Insurance

Q: Why is travel insurance important?
A: Travel insurance protects your investment against unforeseen events like flight delays, baggage loss, or sudden illness.

Trip cancellation insurance helps protect you and the investment you made in your trip when you travel. It provides pre-departure benefits in case you must cancel your trip before you have the chance to take it, and post-departure benefits such as travel delay, trip interruption, and emergency medical expenses to protect you while you are traveling. We recommend Trawick. For more than 25 years, Trawick International has been a trusted provider of international insurance, administration, and assistance services.  Trawick International provides personalized service and trusted guidance.  With 24/7 customer support and worldwide protection, you’ll have everything you need for everywhere you’ll go. We understand your plans can change quickly and unforeseen events could impact your travel plans. We feel it's important to consider purchasing a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment.

Comprehensive Travel Protection and Travel Medical Insurance Plans may provide coverage for:

·       Trip Cancellation

·       Trip Interruption 

·       Trip Delay 

·       Missed Connection

·       Baggage Benefits

·       Baggage and Personal Effects 

·       Baggage Delay 

·       Emergency Accident and Sickness

·       Medical Expense 

·       Dental Expenses 

·       Emergency Evacuation 

·       Repatriation of Remains  

·       Accidental Death & Dismemberment

*Please make sure to read your specific plan document as coverage may vary depending on state and policy purchased. 

For policy questions please call Trawick International’s 24/7 customer service team at 888-301-9289.

Worldwide Travel Assistance is available 24 hours a/ day, 7 days a week. Trawick International offers immediate online policy confirmation of coverage, personalized ID cards and plan documents. Our Global Response Center (GRC) is staffed by a diverse team of bilingual and multilingual professionals.  Trawick Internationals Assistance Provider OnCall International can arrange access to over 180 written and spoken languages to ensure we can deliver clear, accurate, and culturally sensitive emergency response and assistance to travelers anywhere in the world, at any time.

Please Note: Full coverage terms and details, including exclusions and limitations, are contained in the insurance policy. Product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries and may be changed without notice. Plan sold by Trawick International. Insurance is provided by either Technology Insurance Company or Wesco Insurance Company, an AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. company and non-insurance services by Trawick International. Limitations and exclusions apply. Trip cancelation plans are only valid for residents of the United States.