Planning A Trip To Germany And Austria: A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a trip to Germany and Austria can be daunting, especially if it's your first time visiting these countries. Luckily, there are many resources available to help you plan your dream trip to Deutschland and the Alpine nation. When creating your itinerary, you'll want to consider your must-see destinations and the best ways to travel between them. You'll also need to decide on the types of accommodations that suit your preferences and budget.

Transport options: plane, train, or car?

When it comes to transport options, you have a few choices: plane, train, bus, car, or a combination of these.

Plane

Flying is the fastest way to travel between the two countries, with a flight from Germany to Austria taking approximately 4 hours and 54 minutes. However, it is worth noting that the flight time does not include the time needed to get to and from the airport, check-in, security, and other procedures, which can add a few hours to your journey.

Train

Taking the train is a good option if you want to avoid flying and have a more scenic journey. There is no direct train from Germany to Austria or vice versa, but you can take trains with transfers that will get you to your destination in about 9 to 11 hours. The train is also a good option if you plan to visit multiple destinations within Germany and Austria, as it allows you to sit back and enjoy the countryside while someone else handles the navigation.

Bus

The bus is the cheapest way to travel between the two countries, with tickets costing around $55 to $85. However, it is also the slowest option, with the journey taking approximately 9 to 13 hours.

Car

If you prefer the freedom and flexibility of having your own vehicle, renting a car can be a good option. The drive from Germany to Austria is approximately 420 to 630 miles, and it will take about 6 to 13 hours, depending on your starting point and destination. Keep in mind that driving in a foreign country may be challenging due to unfamiliar roads and traffic rules, and you may need to navigate tolls and parking options.

Combination

Depending on your itinerary, you may choose to use a combination of these transport options. For example, you could fly into Munich and then take a train to Vienna, or vice versa. This can be a good option if you want to maximize your time in each location and minimize travel time.

Itinerary planning: how many days in each city?

The number of days you spend in each city will depend on your travel style and what you want to accomplish on your trip. If you prefer to base yourself in one place and explore it thoroughly, you may want to spend more days in fewer cities. For example, if you're interested in museums, the music scene, and cafes, you could spend several days in Vienna. Likewise, if you're interested in the music scene, nearby sights, and day trips, you could spend a few days in Salzburg.

On the other hand, if you want to see as many places as possible, you could split your time evenly between several cities. For example, on a 10-day trip to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, you could spend three days in Switzerland, exploring towns like Lucerne and Zurich. Then, you could spend the remaining seven days split between Germany and Austria.

If you're interested in a more balanced approach, you could aim for a mix of scenery, busy days, tours, and downtime. For example, on a 10-day trip, you could spend three days in each of two cities and four days in another city, with some time for travel between them.

• Munich: 3-4 nights is a good amount of time to spend in Munich, depending on what you want to see. You can easily do a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle from here.
• Salzburg: Plan to spend at least three days in Salzburg, with time to explore nearby sights and take a day trip to Berchtesgaden.
• Berlin: This city is quite far north, but it may be worth visiting if it aligns with your travel goals.
• Vienna: You can easily get to Vienna from Salzburg by train, and it's worth spending several days here to explore the museums, music scene, and cafes.
• Hamburg, Cologne, and Füssen: These cities are worth considering if they hold personal significance for you or if you're interested in exploring smaller cities and towns in Northern Germany.

Accommodation: hotels, inns, or castles?

When it comes to accommodation, there are a variety of options to choose from when planning a trip to Germany and Austria. Hotels are a popular choice, and you can find everything from quaint, moderate-priced hotels to more luxurious options in central locations. Inns are also an option and can offer a more intimate and local experience. If you're looking for something truly unique, consider staying in a castle! Germany and Austria are home to many historic castles that have been converted into hotels, offering a glimpse into the past with all the modern conveniences.

In Germany, you can find castle hotels in various regions, including Cologne and Hamburg. These castles have been meticulously preserved, with some offering rooms that feel like you've stepped back in time to the medieval era. If you're looking for a more relaxed trip, you can also consider spending a day at a spa. Southern Germany is known for its good baths and spas, offering a great opportunity to unwind during your trip.

Austria also boasts a number of castle hotels, often set in ancient towns or the historic countryside. By staying in one of these castles, you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the region while still enjoying modern amenities.

When planning your itinerary, consider the locations you want to visit and the type of experience you're seeking. If you're interested in seeing Berlin, Munich, and Salzburg, you might want to follow a similar route to other travellers. You can spend 3-4 nights in Munich, with the option to add day trips to nearby destinations like Neuschwanstein Castle. Salzburg is also a popular choice, and from there, you can easily take a train to Vienna, which is another great city to explore.

In conclusion, whether you choose to stay in hotels, inns, or castles, you're sure to find accommodation that suits your preferences and budget. Each option offers a unique perspective on the local culture and history, allowing you to create a memorable trip to Germany and Austria.

Food and drink: what to eat and drink?

Germany and Austria are known for their delicious food and drinks. Here is a guide to help you navigate the culinary delights of these countries.

Germany

Germany is famous for its sausages, known as "Wurst" in German. There are countless varieties to try, such as the iconic Bratwurst, a grilled sausage often served with sauerkraut and assorted cuts of pork. Another must-try is the Currywurst, a Berlin specialty invented in 1949. It's a smoky, mildly spicy sausage curried with tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and curry powder, often served with fries. If you're in the mood for something more substantial, go for Schnitzel, which is a flattened, breaded cutlet typically made with veal or pork and served with a side of potatoes. For a heartier meal, tuck into some dumplings, which can be as big as snowballs, or try the blood sausage, also known as Blutwurst or black pudding.

When it comes to drinks, German beer is renowned and often stronger than its American counterpart. You'll find a variety of beers to suit all tastes, from light lagers to darker brews. If you're visiting during Oktoberfest, you'll have the opportunity to sample a wide range of beers and indulge in the festive atmosphere.

Austria

Austria offers a diverse culinary scene, from traditional fare to modern Michelin-starred restaurants. One of the signature dishes of Vienna is Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded veal cutlet served with potato salad. Another classic is Tafelspitz, boiled beef served with roasted potatoes, vegetables, and horseradish sauce. For a heartier option, try Gulasch, a paprika-spiced meat stew with Hungarian origins.

When in Austria, be sure to indulge in the country's wine culture. Visit a Beisl (bistro) or Buschenschank (wine tavern) to sample some of the local vintages. If you have a sweet tooth, don't miss the Apfelstrudel, a flaky pastry filled with apples and raisins, or Kaiserschmarrn, a shredded fluffy pancake served with a fruit compote.

Attractions: what to see and do?

Germany and Austria are both countries with a wealth of attractions and activities to offer visitors.

Germany

Germany is known for its castles, beautiful scenery, and history. Some of the must-see attractions in Germany include:

• Munich: A popular city for tourists, Munich is known for its Oktoberfest celebrations and is a great base for day trips to nearby attractions.
• Neuschwanstein Castle: Located in Bavaria, this castle is said to have inspired Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland. It is surrounded by dramatic scenery, including snow-capped mountains and a beautiful alpine lake.
• Berlin: Although it is quite far north, Berlin is a city that many feel is worth visiting.
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber: An intact medieval village with walls, located in Bavaria.
• The Black Forest: A fairy-tale-like forest that inspired the Brothers Grimm and is filled with greenery.
• The North Sea and Baltic Sea: The northern region of Germany boasts beautiful beaches and islands.
• Hamburg: The largest city in northern Germany, with other must-visit smaller cities nearby, including Lübeck, Stade, Bremen, and Lüneburg.

Austria

Austria is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the soaring Alps and picturesque meadows and grasslands. Some of the must-see attractions in Austria include:

• Salzburg: A city known for its castles and museums.
• Vienna: A city rich in culture and grandeur, with grand palaces, museums, and a thriving opera scene.
• Innsbruck: Home to the Alpenzoo (Alpine Zoo), which is built into the mountainside and offers sweeping views of the surrounding area.
• Lake Gosau: A beautiful lake near Hallstatt, with a path that leads to a green swamp.
• Baden-Baden: A spa town on the northern edge of the Black Forest.

Frequently asked questions