Sat, Sep 21: Fly overnight to Munich, Germany.

Sun, Sep 22: Arrive in Munich and enjoy a two-hour sightseeing tour of the city on the way to the Hotel Eden Wolff Munich, where you will check in for four nights. In the evening transfer by private coach for a Welcome Dinner in the beer garden “Paulaner am Nockherburg.” (D)

Mon, Sep 23: Walk to Oktoberfest with entrance to a beer tent, a chicken dinner and beer included. Return to the hotel at your leisure. (B,D)

Tue, Sep 24: Free day in Munich to sightsee and shop on your own. (B)

Wed, Sep 25: Travel to the famous castles of King Ludwig II of Bavaria (“Mad Ludwig”) on a full-day excursion. In the midst of the Bavarian Alps, the magnificent towers of Neuschwanstein Castle rise in majestic splendor. Set in one of the world’s most breathtaking locations, this 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace sits high above the idyllic 700-year-old medieval village of Fuessen. The palace was intended as a personal refuge for King Ludwig and was the inspiration for Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. The panoramic view from the Marienbrueke (the bridge high above the castle and gorge) is spectacular, with unspoiled natural lakes and valleys stretching far into the distant horizon. After a tour of the castle continue to Linderhof Palace, stopping in Oberammergau, home to the “Passion Play” performed every ten years, on route. The lovely Linderhof Palace is the smallest of the three built by King Ludwig II, and the only one of which he lived to see completed. Return to Munich at the end of the day. (B)

Thu, Sep 26: After breakfast travel by deluxe motorcoach from Munich to Prague in the Bohemian region of the Czech Republic. On the way, stop in Regensburg, Germany for a guided walking tour of this medieval town located at the confluence of the Danube and Regen rivers. Regensburg’s medieval center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Crossing into the Czech Republic, take a guided beer factory tour of the Pzlen Brewery in Pilsen. Check into the Hotel Paris in Prague for three nights. (B)

Fri, Sep 27: In the morning, visit Prague Castle. After lunch on your own, spend the afternoon on a guided city tour of Prague. (B)

Sat, Sep 28: The day is free to explore more of Prague on your own. Join your fellow travelers for a Farewell Dinner and folklore entertainment tonight. (B,D)

Sun, Sep 29: Transfer to the airport for your flights home. (B)

Hotel Eden Wolff Munich, Germany
A traditional 4-star hotel in Munich’s city center, across from the main train station and close to the Oktoberfest grounds. Highlights: modern guestrooms • in-room wireless high-speed Internet (fees apply) • restaurant • lounge/bar • fitness center • sauna • spa.

Hotel Paris, Prague, the Czech Republic
A neo-Gothic building with Art Nouveau elements, this luxury hotel was built in 1904 and is a city landmark in Prague’s Old Town. Highlights: elegant, spacious Art Nouveau decorated guestrooms with baths or showers and heated bathroom floors • in-room WiFi Internet access • restaurant • café • fitness center • sauna and Jacuzzi • spa.