Austria & Germany Featuring Oktoberfest - WCCO Radio

Join the celebration of Oktoberfest, the world’s largest folk festival! Originating at the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese in 1810, this is the ultimate cultural experience. Enjoy live entertainment, oompah music, and traditional outfits! Step into one of the lively festival tents to savor an included lunch and raise a stein of Munich’s finest beer. Brewed within city limits, some refer to it as nectar of the gods. Prost!

Explore the capital of Bavaria on a guided walking tour through its beautiful Old Town, where 850 years of fascinating history await. Stroll the bustling town square – Marienplatz, home to the famous Rathaus-Glockenspiel clock tower, and view St. Peter’s Church. We also visit the vibrant Viktualienmarkt, an open-air market full of local delicacies, and pass by the Bavarian State Chancellery near Hofgarten. 

Dive into the legacy of Mozart! Admire the perfectly manicured Mirabell Gardens, where children from The Sound of Music sang “Do-Re-Mi.”  Then, stroll across the “Love Lock Bridge” to explore UNESCO World Heritage-listed Altstadt (Old Town), known for its remarkable Baroque architecture, charming alleyways, and stunning Salzburg Cathedral. At the heart of it is Getreidegasse, beautifully lined with wrought-iron signs, traditional Austrian cafés, unique boutiques, and Mozart’s Birthplace. Soak up an afternoon at leisure along this historic street!

Journey over 2,000 feet into the Bavarian at this historic salt mine, where “white gold” has been extracted since 1517. Dressed in traditional miner’s gear, we board a train that takes us deep into the mountain tunnels to see the glowing Salt Cathedral, marvel at the shimmering walls of the Stone Salt Grotto, glide down thrilling miner’s slides, and watch an immersive presentation on the extraction process! Our underground exploration concludes with a boat ride across Mirror Lake with dazzling lights reflecting off salt-crusted cavern walls.
_{Photo credit: Courtesy of Salt Mine Berchtesgaden}

Embark on a scenic journey aboard Europe’s oldest steam-powered cog railway, with beautifully restored carriages dating back to the 1890s. Chug along the picturesque route from Jenbach to Seespitz, passing lush alpine meadows and charming villages. Upon reaching Lake Achensee, the largest lake in the Tyrolean Alps, we disembark for a tranquil cruise across the sparkling emerald waters with stunning views of the towering Karwendel and Rofan mountain ranges.
_{Photo Credit: ©Achensee Tourismus}

Visit the whimsical masterpiece that inspired Disney’s cherished castle, perched atop a hill within the stunning Bavarian Alps. Travel back in time to the Romanticism era as you explore the castle’s opulent interiors with intricate carvings, lavish décor, and grand chambers fit for a king. Stand in the Throne Room, wander the Gothic-style halls, and take in unbeatable views of the surrounding lush forests, sparkling lakes, and towering peaks.