European Escapes Travel Itinerary
After you reserve your package, our Retiree Trip Coordinator will contact you to gather your flight arrival and departure details. Before you travel, you’ll also receive a complete itinerary along with helpful packing tips and guidance to ensure you’re fully prepared for your European adventure.
Sunday
1200 Private coach departs Munich International Airport
1400 Arrive in Garmisch-Partenkirchen
1600 Evening Welcome Reception (Dinner included)
You will arrive at the Munich International Airport and be greeted by an Edelweiss Lodge and Resort representative. Enjoy some time to mingle with your fellow retirees and stretch your legs after the long flight before boarding a private coach bus en route to Garmisch.
During the drive, watch as the majestic mountains begin to form around you before arriving in the stunning Werdenfelser valley with the highest mountain in all of Germany right at your feet: the Zugspitze. The rest of the afternoon is yours to get checked-in, unpack and relax before attending the Welcome Reception and dinner at the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort. Then enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep as you prepare to experience the vacation of a lifetime!
Monday
0600 - 0900 Summit breakfast buffet at Edelweiss Resort
0900 Depart for Morning Garmisch-Partenkirchen City Tour
1300 Free time for lunch and shopping
1515 Return to Edelweiss Resort
The quaint town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen quietly rests in the Werdenfelser Valley at the foot of the majestic Bavarian Alps. Weather permitting we will start at the Eibsee where your guide will lead you on a 15-minute walk to one of the best viewpoints of the Zugspitze. From there we will head on a scenic drive around the valley and learn about the unique history of Garmisch and Partenkirchen. Our next stop will be at the famous Olympic Ski Stadium which dates back to the 1936 Winter Olympics.
Your guide will then take you along the cobblestone streets of Partenkirchen pointing out historic buildings, monuments, architecture, shopping spots and more. This beautiful walk down the historic Ludwigstrasse in Partenkirchen – was once a part of the Roman Road from Venice to Augsburg. Enjoy the fascinating murals and art of this cobblestone street before heading west toward Garmisch. You will learn the history of Garmisch, peruse the Marienplatz pedestrian zone, Kurpark and enjoy free time to explore or dine in one of the many amazing Garmisch restaurants.
1730 Bavarian Restaurant Dinner
We will make a reservation at a local Bavarian Restaurant for dinner this evening. A shuttle will be provided and dinner and drinks are included in your package.
*dinner and drinks included in price
Tuesday
0600 - 0800 Summit breakfast buffet at Edelweiss Resort
0800 Depart for Munich City Tour
Experience the vibrant heart of Bavaria on a guided Munich City Tour from Edelweiss Lodge and Resort. Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive to Munich in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach as your English-speaking guide shares fascinating stories about the city’s royal past and lively present.
The tour winds through Munich’s historic districts, passing landmarks such as the Residenz Palace, the towering Frauenkirche, and the elegant streets of the Old Town. You’ll have time to explore Marienplatz, the bustling city square at the center of Munich, where you can watch the famous Glockenspiel come to life and browse nearby shops and cafés. Continue through the sprawling English Garden, one of the world’s largest urban parks, where locals surf river waves, stroll leafy paths, and relax in traditional beer gardens. A stop at the Viktualienmarkt offers a taste of everyday Bavarian life, with colorful stalls selling local foods, flowers, and specialties. Ending with a table reservation at the famous Hofbrauhaus.
Throughout the day, your guide will share insights into Munich’s culture, art, and history — from its royal roots to its role as a modern European hub. Expect a full day of sightseeing, photo opportunities, and authentic Bavarian charm. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and while light refreshments are available, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a meal at one of the city’s many inviting restaurants.
Discover why Munich is considered the jewel of Bavaria — a city where tradition meets sophistication and every corner tells a story.
Wednesday
0600 – 0700 Breakfast at Edelweiss Resort
0700 Depart Tour
1900 Return to Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
The Novacella Abbey rests amongst the beautiful wine region in Northern Italy. Here you will learn about the history of the monastery which dates back to the 12th century and will taste some of the amazing wines produced since the abbey’s establishment. You will then head to the town of Bressanone for free time for lunch.
Thursday
0600 - 1000 Summit breakfast buffet at Edelweiss Resort
The day is yours! Sleep in, wake up early, rent a car, or go for a leisurely walk from the hotel. You have been hitting it hard the last few days, doing something local would be nice. Some activities you may enjoy include:
• The beautiful Partnach Gorge
• Olympic Ski Jump Stadium
• A stroll through the Marienplatz / Christmas Market
• Drinking traditional Gluhwein
• Shopping in downtown Garmisch
• A dip in our outdoor hot tub
• A bite in a Bavarian café
• Taking a train to a nearby town
• Riding a cable car to the top of Germany - the Zugspitze
• Receiving a relaxing massage from our Wellness club
• Reserve another guided tour!
Friday
0600 - 0700 Summit breakfast buffet at Edelweiss Resort
0700 Depart for Salzburg
2000 Return to Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
Salzburg, or “Salt Fortress” is a city of wondrous music, architecture and history. It is the birthplace of Mozart, arguably the most influential music composer of all time. It is the setting of the renowned musical “The Sound of Music,” where the von Trapp family lived and escaped the wraths of the Nazi Regime. Your tour will take you into one of the best-preserved old towns in Europe, where you can view baroque buildings dating back to the Middle Ages and maybe grab a taste of a classic Austrian sachertorte.
Saturday
0600 - 0830 Summit breakfast buffet at Edelweiss Resort
0830 Depart for Innsbruck
1000 Arrive at Swarovski Crystal World
1200 Depart for Innsbruck
1245 Lunch and free time on your own in Innsbruck
1700 Arrive at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
The Austrian city of Innsbruck is the capital city of Tirol in northern Austria and home of the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics. Swarovski Crystal Worlds was opened in 1995 to mark the centennial anniversary of the company’s founding. Multimedia artist André Heller designed a unique and magical place. This beloved attraction has brought moments of wonder to over fifteen million visitors from all around the world. Visitors are surprised, touched, and perhaps even transformed by crystal in all its facets. We then travel to Innsbruck, renowned for its many churches, extensive walking district and the city's most famous landmark the golden roof adorned with 2,738 fire-gilded copper tiles.
Sunday (Alternate tour to Linday if Swiss mountain pass is closed)
0600 - 0700 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
0700 Depart for an all day Multi-Country Tour
2000 - 2200 Dinner at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort*
Embark on an unforgettable multiple country driving tour, starting from Edelweiss and traversing through Austria, Italy, Switzerland. This thrilling journey promises a diverse blend of landscapes, cultures, and experiences. The scenic drive through the Bavarian and Tyrolean landscapes is an experience in itself. As we cross into Austria, you’ll be mesmerized by the stunning alpine vistas and rolling green hills. We will then make our way to the striking Reschensee in Italy, famous for its submerged church tower, a poignant symbol of the past. Take a leisurely walk along the lake and absorb the beauty and history of the area. We then journey through Switzerland driving over a Swiss mountain pass that offers breathtaking vistas of pristine alpine landscapes. Our Swiss lunch stop offers a chance to relish authentic Swiss cuisine against the backdrop of the snow-capped mountains. You’ll have time to stretch your legs and capture some memorable photos. We will then make our way back to Garmisch, providing time for reflection on the diverse experiences and landscapes encountered during this epic multiple country tour.
NOTE :
* Lunch and Drinks are included in your package on this tour.
* This tour may not be available in April and October due to snow and mountain pass closures. We will offer a Lindau tour should weather be an issue.
Monday
0600 – 0900 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
0900 Depart for Highline 179
1500 Arrive back to Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
Prepare for an exciting day trip from Garmisch that combines adventure and history as we explore Highline 179, one of the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge, and offer the option to visit the Knights Museum at the visitor’s center for those who prefer a different kind of experience. For the adventurous souls, the highlight of the day is a walk across Highline 179. Traverse the suspension bridge, suspended high above the valley, for a thrilling experience and unparalleled vistas. You’ll witness the impressive bridge stretching across the Ehrenberg Castle Ruins and Fort Claudia Ruins. The Highline 179 spans an incredible 1,318 feet and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged terrain and surrounding mountains. After the bridge walk or museum, we will break for lunch. You can savor traditional Austrian dishes at a local restaurant or enjoy a picnic amidst the stunning Alpine scenery.
Tuesday
0600 - 1000 Breakfast at Edelweiss Resort
1730 - 2000 Farewell Dinner at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
The day is yours! See you in the evening for a beautiful meal and evening laughing over stories you experienced through the week.
Some activities you may enjoy during the day include:
• The beautiful Partnach Gorge
• Olympic Ski Jump Stadium
• A stroll through the Marienplatz / Christmas Market
• Drinking traditional Gluhwein
• Shopping in downtown Garmisch
• A dip in our outdoor hot tub
• A bite in a Bavarian café
• Taking a train to a nearby town
• Riding a cable car to the top of Germany - the Zugspitze
• Receiving a relaxing massage from our Wellness club
Wednesday
0600 - 0700 Check Out / Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
0700 Depart for Munich International Airport
Thank you for choosing to visit Edelweiss Lodge and Resort for your special Retiree vacation. The private coach bus will depart Edelweiss Lodge and Resort at 0700 hrs. It is about 2 hours to the airport under normal traffic conditions.
Auf Wiedersehen!
An alternative to our 10 night retiree European Escapes is our Explorer package. Discover the joy of slow travel with our 20-night Explorer Package, a rare chance to truly settle into life in the Bavarian Alps. Enjoy the perfect blend of guided sightseeing and peaceful, unplanned days to relax, wander, or simply take in the mountain views. With airport transfers, resort amenities, and an orientation tour included, all you have to do is arrive and enjoy. Stay longer, stress less, and experience Bavaria the way it’s meant to be savored.
Priced from only $3,729 for two adults!
Explorer
About Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
Resting at the foot of the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain, Edelweiss Lodge and Resort is a resort destination designed for eligible military personnel and their families. With 256 rooms and suites, we have comfortable spaces and mountain views for retirees and their families.
When the tours are over, we have amenities focused on your relaxation. Head to the hot tub to soak away any stress. Take a refreshing swim and lay back in the water jets to soothe your sore muscles.
We also have restaurants for every taste. Hang out at Zuggy's Base Camp and watch some sports and enjoy a pizza. Or start your morning with a delicious American buffet and a chef-prepared omelet in Market Station.