Germany, Austria & Switzerland
September 29-October 11, 2027
Experience Oktoberfest, Bavarian Villages, Austrian Charm & the Scenic Swiss Alps!
Munich City Tour & Historic Marienplatz
Munich’s World-Famous Oktoberfest (Optional)
Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial
Nuremberg Documentation Center
Nazi Party Rally Grounds
Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus)
Salzburg – Mozart’s Birthplace & The Sound of Music
Scenic Austrian Alps & Alpine Villages
Innsbruck Old Town & Golden Roof
Traditional Tyrolean Folklore Dinner Show
Vaduz, Liechtenstein
Spectacular Swiss Alps
Mt. Stanserhorn Funicular & Open-Top Cable Car
Lucerne Old Town, Chapel Bridge & Lion Monument
Scenic Lake Lucerne Boat Cruise
Magnificent Rhine Falls
Germany’s Famous Black Forest
Black Forest Cake Demonstration & Tasting
Black Forest Open Air Museum
Traditional Cuckoo Clock Shop
Romantic Heidelberg & Historic Old Town
Charming Rhine Valley Town of Rüdesheim
Scenic Rhine River Cruise Past Castles & Vineyards
Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum
Rüdesheim Cable Car Ride Over the Vineyards
Traditional European Cuisine & Included Dinners
Tour Highlights:
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Our exciting European adventure begins today! We depart the United States aboard our overnight transatlantic flight to Munich, Germany. Sit back, relax, and look forward to the incredible sights and experiences awaiting us in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
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Welcome to Germany! Upon arrival, we’ll meet our local Tour Manager and transfer to our hotel. Enjoy a panoramic tour of Munich, Bavaria’s vibrant capital, known for its beautiful architecture, historic landmarks, and centuries-old traditions. From grand royal buildings to bustling squares and charming neighborhoods, Munich offers a wonderful introduction to German culture. You will have some time to rest or explore before we gather with fellow travelers for an included Welcome Dinner. (D)
Hotel: Maritim Hotel Munich
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Today we explore an important chapter of Germany’s history. Our first stop is the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial, the former grounds of one of the first Nazi concentration camps. This moving visit provides an opportunity to reflect on the experiences of those imprisoned here and the events of World War II. We’ll continue to Nuremberg, a city rich in medieval charm and significant WWII history. Next, visit the Documentation Center. Through fascinating exhibits, historic photographs, and multimedia displays, discover how Nuremberg became a center of Nazi propaganda and learn about the events that shaped Germany during the war. We’ll make a photo stop at the former Nazi Party Rally Grounds, where massive gatherings once took place. Return to Munich this evening. (B)
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Begin with a visit to Munich’s famous Marienplatz, the heart of the city’s historic Old Town. Admire the magnificent New Town Hall, explore the charming pedestrian streets, or browse the colorful Viktualienmarkt, a traditional outdoor market filled with Bavarian specialties. Next, you will have the option to experience the world-famous Oktoberfest if you would like! Join our tour manager via public transportation. This legendary Bavarian celebration features festive music, traditional costumes, lively beer tents, delicious German foods, and an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and traditions of this iconic festival before we say farewell to Munich. This afternoon, cross into Austria, where beautiful mountain scenery, green valleys, and charming Alpine villages welcome us. Arrive in the picturesque village of Filzmoos for an included dinner and overnight stay. (B, D)
Hotel: Alpenhotel Wurzer
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Our morning begins with a memorable excursion to the historic Kehlsteinhaus, also known as the Eagle’s Nest, perched high atop a mountain near Berchtesgaden, Germany. Originally built as a Nazi-era diplomatic reception building, this remarkable site offers insight into World War II history along with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Alps. This afternoon, travel to beautiful Salzburg, one of Austria’s most beloved cities. Famous as the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for the beloved film The Sound of Music. You will have some freetime here and our tour manger will point out some of the famous filming areas of The Sound of Music. Return to our Alpine hotel this evening for a traditional Austrian dinner. (B, D)
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Travel through Austria’s magnificent mountain scenery to Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol region and one of Europe’s most beautiful Alpine cities. Surrounded by towering mountain peaks, Innsbruck combines imperial history with traditional Austrian charm. Explore the historic Old Town and admire the famous Golden Roof, decorated with more than 2,600 gilded copper tiles and built for Emperor Maximilian I. Other highlights include Maria Theresa Street, the Triumphal Arch, and the beautiful Imperial Church. There will also be an opportunity to shop for Austria’s famous Swarovski crystals. Later, travel to our chalet-style hotel in a charming Tyrolean village. Following an included dinner, enjoy an entertaining evening of traditional Austrian folklore, featuring lively music, colorful costumes, and spirited dancing! (B, D)
Hotel: Hotel Gasthof Purner
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Today we journey through some of Europe’s most breathtaking mountain landscapes! Travel west through Austria, passing dramatic peaks and picturesque valleys before arriving in the tiny principality of Liechtenstein, one of Europe’s smallest countries. We’ll stop in Vaduz, its charming capital, nestled along the Rhine River beneath the Alps. Continue into Switzerland, where spectacular scenery awaits around every turn. Snowcapped mountain peaks, emerald-green valleys, and traditional Swiss villages create a picture-perfect setting. Our destination is a cozy Alpine village surrounded by the magnificent Swiss Alps, where we’ll settle in for a relaxing two-night stay. Enjoy an included dinner this evening. (B, D)
Hotel: Hotel Schweizerhof Engelberg
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Prepare for an unforgettable day in the heart of Switzerland! Our morning begins in the mountain village of Stans, where we’ll experience a spectacular journey to the summit of Mt. Stanserhorn. Ride a historic funicular followed by the world’s only open-top cable car, featuring an open-air upper deck with breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps. From the summit, admire the sweeping panorama of mountain peaks, lakes, and valleys. Next, visit beautiful Lucerne, one of Switzerland’s most picturesque cities. Discover its famous covered Bridge, charming Old Town, and impressive Lion Monument, carved into a sandstone cliff to honor fallen Swiss Guards. The surrounding mountains and sparkling waters of Lake Lucerne create a stunning backdrop. Before returning to our hotel, enjoy an included scenic boat cruise on Lake Lucerne, offering another wonderful perspective of Switzerland’s natural beauty. (B, D)
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Say farewell to the Swiss Alps as we travel north toward one of Europe’s most impressive natural wonders, the magnificent Rhine Falls. Located near Schaffhausen, these powerful waterfalls are among the largest in Europe, with tremendous volumes of water cascading over the rocks. Enjoy time to admire the falls from scenic viewpoints, with an optional boat excursion (additional cost) available for an even closer look if you choose. Afterward, cross back into Germany and enter the legendary Black Forest, a region famous for its dense woodlands, charming villages, cuckoo clocks, and centuries-old traditions. Upon arrival, enjoy a special demonstration and a delicious slice of authentic Black Forest Cake! We’ll settle into our hotel for a two-night stay and enjoy an included dinner. (B, D)
Hotel: Hotel Hofgut Sternen
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Today we discover the timeless beauty and traditions of Germany’s famous Black Forest. This picturesque region is filled with rolling hills, thick forests, traditional farmhouses, and storybook villages that seem untouched by time. Visit the Black Forest Open Air Museum, where historic farmhouses and demonstrations bring centuries of rural German life to life. Learn about traditional farming, craftsmanship, and everyday life in this fascinating region. We’ll also visit a local clock shop to discover the artistry behind the Black Forest’s world-famous cuckoo clocks, a tradition passed down through generations. Enjoy the region’s charming scenery and villages before stopping for an independent dinner and returning to our hotel. (B)
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Our journey continues through the scenic German countryside to Heidelberg, one of the country’s most romantic and historic cities. Nestled along the Neckar River, Heidelberg is famous for its beautiful Old Town, centuries-old university, and magnificent castle ruins overlooking the city. Stroll through the charming streets lined with historic buildings, quaint shops, and inviting cafés, or take an optional funicular ride (additional cost) up to Heidelberg Castle for a closer look at this impressive landmark. Later, continue to Rüdesheim, a delightful wine-producing town nestled among the vineyards of the Rhine Valley. Known for its lively atmosphere and traditional German hospitality, Rüdesheim is the perfect place to experience the charm of the Rhine region. This evening, enjoy the opportunity to explore its inviting restaurants and experience local food, wine, and music. (B)
Hotel: Hotel Felsenkeller
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Today we’ll experience one of Germany’s most celebrated landscapes with a scenic cruise along the Rhine River! Glide past picturesque villages, hillside vineyards, medieval castles, and ancient fortresses overlooking the water. This remarkable stretch of the Rhine Valley is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its romantic scenery and fascinating legends. Following our cruise, return to Rüdesheim for a visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum, home to an extraordinary collection of self-playing musical instruments, from delicate music boxes to elaborate mechanical orchestras. We’ll also enjoy a memorable cable car ride high above the vineyards, offering spectacular views of the Rhine River and surrounding countryside. This evening, gather for a special Farewell Dinner as we celebrate the wonderful memories and friendships made throughout our European adventure. (B, D)
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We transfer to Frankfurt Airport for our return flight to the United States. As our incredible journey comes to an end, we’ll take home wonderful memories! (B)
Trip Itinerary
TOUR DATES: September 29-October 11, 2027
PRICE PER PERSON
Double (2 people/room): $8000
Single (1 person/room): $9550
DEPOSIT REQUIRED: $400
IMPORTANT DATES
Booking Deadline: 5/24/27
Final Payment Due: 5/24/27
Cancellation for Full Refund: 5/24/27
TRIP DOCUMENTS ARE MAILED 3 WEEKS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED
Valid Passport Book
MEALS INCLUDED
Breakfast (B): 11
Lunch (L): 0
Dinner (D): 8
INCLUDES
-All Airport Transfers
-Roundtrip Airfare & 1 Checked Bag
-English Speaking Local Guide & Bus Transportation
-Tour Representative with Riley’s Traveling with you the entire trip taking care of all of the details
-Accommodations, Attractions & Meals Listed in Itinerary
-All Taxes & Tips for Tour Features
-Luggage Handling at Hotels
NOT INCLUDED
-Gratuity for Local guide, local driver and Riley Representative
TOUR PACE
This tour includes a moderate amount of walking. Guests should be prepared for some extended periods of walking, including uneven terrain, hills, stairs, and cobblestone.
Print Brochure
HOW TO BOOK A TOUR:
We require all travelers to fill out a reservation form and submit a deposit when signing up for a tour. If you want to pay by credit card, you should BOOK ONLINE. If you want to pay by check, you should BOOK BY MAIL. Please be sure to read our TERMS & CONDITIONS.
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Click on BOOK BY MAIL
A printable Reservation Form will pop-up - print this form
Fill out the Reservation Form - Please read the information page that comes with it before fill it out - there are also insurance information with it
Submit the deposit require for the tour you are signing up for - listed under the pricing information
We will MAIL you an invoice which confirms your reservation and shows your remaining balance and when it is due *Please note, we do not send final payment reminders or final payment receipts- this invoice is the only one you will receive from us
Tour documents are mailed to each travelers 3 weeks prior to departure - these documents will have your pick-up location/time, full itinerary of the tour along with luggage tags and other items pertaining to your tour
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Click on BOOK ONLINE
Select the number of people you are signing up (people icon) on the package you are choosing (Double, Triple, Quad or Single)
Follow onscreen instructions
You will need to pay the deposit (or full payment if the full payment deadline has passed) *Please note, there is a non-refundable fee for using your credit card - ACH payments are charged a non-refundable fee also but it is lower than a credit card
You will receive an email confirmation from Riley Tours/WeTravel - SAVE THIS EMAIL if you plan to make your final payment online, it is the only way to access your reservation
We will also MAIL you an invoice which confirms your reservation and shows your remaining balance and when it is due - you may choose to pay your remaining balance by mailing us a check if you prefer *Please note, we do not send final payment reminders or final payment receipts - this invoice is the only one you will receive from us
Tour documents are mailed to each travelers 3 weeks prior to departure - these documents will have your pick-up location/time, full itinerary of the tour along with luggage tags and other items pertaining to your tour
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DISCOUNTS & SAVINGS
Please not that these discounts and credits have no cash value and need to be applied prior to making your final payment. No refunds for a discount or credit will be made if final payment is made. In fairness to everyone, exceptions cannot be made for any reason.
PRE-TOUR LODGING
Upon request, lodging for the night before the tour will be provided at a cost of $50-$100 per room (depending on location) for travelers who live more than 50 miles from the nearest designated departure point. For travelers who live within 50 miles of the nearest designated departure point, we can help you arrange pre-tour lodging for the full cost of the room. We will send this information to you in your tour documents.
FORM OF PAYMENT
Personal Checks, Money Order, Credit Card and Cash are acceptable forms of payment. Please note, all credit card transactions are subject to a non-refundable 3.95% service fee. *Fees are subject to change*
CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS
Full refund will be made provided we receive notice 31 days prior to the tours departure for most tours. Each tour has a cancellation date listed on the brochure or catalog page. For tours which include air, a full refund will be made up to 61 days before departure or the date indicated on the brochure. For tours which include a cruise, a full refund will be made based upon the cruise line’s cancellation policy. Cancellations or changes made within 60 days of departure may be subject to charges assessed by the airlines and/or tour suppliers. Refunds are at the discretion of Riley Tours based on non-recoverable expenses and other factors. If you are sharing a room and your partner cancels or leaves the tour en route, you will be required to pay the difference between the double and single accommodation tour cost if you did not purchase trip insurance. Riley Tours reserves the right to modify it’s refund and cancellation policy when a sizable amount of cancellation or delay of travel that is related to or arising out of acts of God, pandemics, weather, government actions, mechanical breakdowns, acts of terrorism and war. In any one of these circumstances, Riley’s will issue the amount paid in the form of a travel voucher that does not expire.
TRIP INSURANCE
Riley’s offers an Travel Protection Plan for every tour. This coverage can protect you from non-refundable charges and any additional expenses if a illness or an accident prevents you or your partner from going on a tour or leave a tour while it’s in progress. This plan is optional and at an additional cost. It is non-refundable.
PICK UP POINTS
Inside secure parking is offered at our office in Murdock, Minnesota. Other locations we pick up but do not offer inside secure parking in Minnesota include Hutchinson, Waconia, St. Joseph, Alexandria and St. Michael. We also pick up in Plymouth, Minnetonka, St. Paul, St. Cloud and Eden Prairie but there is not parking arrangements there. These departure points are scheduled based on the tour routing. We suggest you contact our office for the most convenient departure point that is available from your area. Courtesy transportation will be provided upon request for ten or more passengers departing from one location on most tours. If no pick-up point is determined on passenger's reservation form, the nearest one with parking will be selected by Riley Tours.
PROOF OF CITIZENSHIP
A Passport is required for all passengers traveling by air to and from Canada and Mexico along with on international tours. U.S. Customs suggests that your passport’s be valid atleast six months past your return date. If you are applying for a passport, we recommend applying for a passport as you register for a tour, as it can take up to eight weeks to process. For land crossings a passport or an enhanced drivers license is required. A REAL ID is required for tours flying within the United States unless you plan to use your passport. Please make sure you have the proper ID when making your reservation. Riley’s is not responsible for costs incurred due to a traveler not having the correct form of ID to travel. Travelers are responsible for checking with the government authorities for all countries visited to determine if the traveler is allowed to enter due to policies in place by that country. For Example: Criminal history such as DWI may not allow someone to travel into Canada.
TOURS THAT INCLUDE AIRFARE
For tours that include airfare, Riley Tours book these tickets as a group. Seats are assigned by the airlines and a seat next to your traveling companion is not a guarantee nor is a seat request such as aisle, window seats or upgrades. Riley Tours staff submits these request to the airline and will make every attempt to get travel companions close to each other on the plane but Riley's is not responsible if those requests are not followed by the airline. Any flight deviations or reservations after the final payment on tours that include airfare, are subject to additional costs/fees and payment for the airline ticket is due at the time of purchase. It is the responsibility of each Tour Guest to provide their name as written on their government-issued photo ID (or Passport if required) when registering for a tour. This is the ID you must bring and use at the airport. If the incorrect name is given, Riley Tours is not liable for additional expenses incurred or travel delays as a result of airline ticket name changes.
TOUR DOCUMENTS
Complete joining instructions with pick up times and locations, an itinerary, and hotel listing will be included with your luggage tag and medical form. This material is mailed to you approximately 21 days prior to the tours departure date.
CLOTHING RECOMMENDATIONS
We recommend for all of our tours that you wear comfortable shoes made for walking. Bring clothing that can be layered easily for changing weather conditions. Bringing a raincoat that can easily be folded and stored is always a good idea. If special events or activities require more dressy attire, it will be noted on your tour documents. We suggest you bring a bathing suit if you enjoy utilizing the hotel pools and Jacuzzis.
SINGLE TRAVELER
Riley Tours welcomes single travelers and will try to assist in arranging a roommate for any person wishing to share accommodations at the double rate. Travelers looking for partners are responsible for meeting one another and deciding if it is a good match. Riley’s shall not be held liable should the arrangement fail. If a shared arrangement not be available or does not work out, the single rate will apply. Single travelers that sign up for a tour are purchasing a single seat and may be required to share a seat with another single passenger if the bus is full.
TRIPLE & QUAD
These accommodations are usually in rooms with two double beds. A roll-away bed or cot is subject to availability on a request basis only and at an extra cost.
TOUR PARTICIPATION
Tour participation will be granted to all persons. Any person who requires special assistance needs to be accompanied by an able companion who will assist them throughout the trip. Riley Tours regrets that we are not able to provide individual assistance to guests with walking, wheel chairs, or other personal needs. Please note it is the responsibility of the traveler to pay for any expenses incurred for special arrangements required.
MOBILITY DEVICES
Foldable wheelchairs and walkers are welcome. They are not permitted onboard the motorcoach and will be stored in the baggage compartment. If you intend to bring a wheelchair or walker, please notify us when making your reservation. We can accommodate motorized wheelchairs of a specific size and weight.
ADA ACT ON INTERNATIONAL TOURS
Be aware that the ADA Act is only applicable in the U.S., so traveling outside the U.S. with a disability may be more difficult.
LUGGAGE
Each person is allowed ONE LARGE SUITCASE which will be handled for you throughout the tour. In addition, a small overnight case or tote bag may be carried aboard. Carry-on articles are the responsibility of each person. A purse or small bag can be in addition to your carry-on as well as a C-Pap breathing machine as it is considered a medical device and doesn’t count as a carry-on. Though every effort will be made to safeguard your luggage, Riley Tours accepts no liability for loss or damage. Each person is required to handle their own luggage at airport check-in.
SMOKING POLICY
For the comfort of everyone, smoking aboard the coach and at included group functions is not permitted. Frequent stops enable those who wish to smoke to do so.
SEAT ROTATIONS
To enable everyone to enjoy the view from all areas of the motor coach, seating will be changed on a daily basis on tours with 20 people or more, your tour director will explain this procedure.
INCLUDED MEALS & ATTRACTIONS
You will be advised of those meals that are included as part of your tour. We regret that food substitutions are not always possible for pre-arranged or set menus. Please let us know when signing up if you have special dietary requests so we may try to accommodate them. Refunds cannot be given, should you choose not to join the tour group for an included meal, or sightseeing that has been prepaid or arranged on a group basis.
TOUR DIRECTORS
Every Riley Tour is accompanied by a professional Tour Director who handles all the details of your tour. Cruise tours may not have a Tour Director onboard.
RESERVATION FORMS
When filling out a reservation form, please write your full legal name (as written on your ID). If you have a nickname you would like on the name tag that you will wear throughout the tour, you may request that under the “Names on Tag” section of the form. If the form is filled incorrectly, Riley Tours is not responsible for fees to make changes.
SPECIAL REQUESTS
Please let us know in the special requests line of your reservation form if you need any of the following: handicapped accessible room or other special room requests, walking restrictions, wheelchair, special dietary needs, if you plan bringing any medical items necessary for your trip, etc. Riley’s must have notice that you need a wheel chair prior to your tours departure in order for the wheel chair to be reserved for a passenger. Please note: handicapped accessible rooms with 2 queen beds is not always available at hotels so please specify what you need exactly so we can make sure your request is accommodated correctly. For example: walk in shower, raised toilet, etc.
GRATUITIES
Tips for all included features of your tour (luggage handling, included meals, etc.) will be taken care of by your tour director. Tips for meals on your own or other services are at the discretion of each tour participant. Customary tips for the tour director and driver of your tour should be on a voluntary basis and given individually at the end of the tour. If tips are not included, it is noted on the tour brochure. We suggest $5-10 per traveler per day.
LIABILITY & RELATION WITH AIRFARE
We assume no liability for any actions of the airlines, such as flight delays, flight cancellation and equipment failure. The obligations and liabilities of an airline to you, and your rights against the airline, are subject to the terms and conditions of the airlines’ tickets and tariffs. It is important to understand that portions of a trip missed due to a flight delay are lost and no refund will be issued by Riley Tours.
RESPONSIBILITY
These tours are operated by Riley Tours of Murdock, MN. Riley Tours and their agents act only as an agent for such other parties, firms, or corporations providing services herein. No liability shall be incurred by Riley Tours, their agents, presenters, or cosponsors because of injury, loss, delay, or other complication experienced by tour participants. Riley Tours reserves the right to correct printing errors, to make any changes or alterations in the printed itineraries, dates, routes, hotels, or included features prior to or during the tour, as may be necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the tour. The names of the hotels used may be changed without notice. Riley Tours also reserves the right to accept, decline, or retain any person as a participant of these tours at anytime.