From gorgeous views of the Alps, to cities that are modern-day reminders of a rich, imperial past, dream castles and palaces, contemporary architecture, famous pubs and Viennese cuisine that has become a new trend in the culinary world, Germany and Austria have something for every traveler. Looking to take part in something extraordinary? The countries offer some of the world's finest ski slopes thanks to the hills and high peaks of the Alps, but also boast long sandy beaches on the coasts and lake shores and enchanting lowland plains.
Germany
- With over 1.3 million visitors each year, Neuschwanstein in Southern Bavaria is the most visited castle in Germany and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
- Travel the Romantic Road on a drive through the Franconia wine country to the foothills of the German Alps. Discover unspoiled nature, picturesque towns with half-timbered houses, hidden monasteries, medieval castles and romantic hotels.
- Oktoberfest in September? Yes, it's a misnomer but Oktoberfest in Munich is the largest festival in the world with an international flavor.
- The Dachau Memorial site on the grounds of the former concentration camp include religious memorials and chapels that reflect all that were present in the camp, as well as an international monument by Yugoslavian artist and holocaust survivor, Nandor Glid.
- Cologne Cathedral, the greatest Gothic cathedral in Germany (and it's most famous landmark for centuries), holds a golden reliquary containing the remains of the Three Magi of Christmas story fame.
Austria
- A former imperial summer residence, Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna is one of the country's most important cultural monuments with its numerous architectural features, fountains, statues and zoo.
- Built in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard, Fortress Hohensalzburg is unmistakable as it rises above the baroque towers of Salzburg, creating the city's world-famous skyline.
- Rent a vintage car and travel through mountains, meadows, cliffs and eternal ice on the world-famous Grossglockner High Alpine Road, complete with 36 bends and an altitude ascent to 8,216 feet.
- Known to the Viennese as “Riesenrad,” the beloved Giant Ferris Wheel has a diameter of 200 feet, weighs 430 tons, reaches a height of 112 feet and has modern lighting allowing it to represent a giant clock in the Austrian night sky.
- An indoor crystal theme park that puts sparkle on everything from the entryway to the restaurant, Swarovski Crystal Worlds includes Crystaloscope, the world's largest kaleidoscope, the Crystal Dome and the 3-D experience, Planet of Crystals.