Walk in Sisi’s Footsteps: The Story of an Austrian Empress

13 Days / 12 Nights

Geneva, Munich, Salzburg, Vienna, Budapest

from$6,000 per person

Average Guest Rating 4.9 / 5

Follow the life of the Austrian Empress Elisabeth, better known as "Sisi," from her youth to her happiest days, to where she breathed her last. You'll join the official "Sisi's Road" route where her life ironically came to a violent end in Geneva, the "Capital of Peace." You'll fly to Munich, her birthplace. There, you can visit her beloved childhood palace Possenhoffen, or visit Augsburg, where her brother had a scandalous affair, frowned upon by her favorite niece. You'll take the Empress Elisabeth Line to Salzburg and its Elisabeth District. Afterward, en route to Vienna, you can stop at Bad Ischl, the resort town where Sisi and Franz Josef first met, home to a palace built just for her. In grand Vienna, you can visit Sisi's three palaces, from where she spent many of her summers (complete with a collection of her carriages), to where she honeymooned. You can also visit Sisi's grave, along with those of her husband and son. Finally, in Budapest, you can see where Sisi was crowned Queen of Hungary, and visit the palace where Sisi spent many summer months with her Hungarian friends.
The services we provide as part of our comprehensive packages include accommodations, private door-to-door long-distance transfers, train tickets, short intra-European flights, airport and train station transfers, city tours, and day trips. In addition to the tours included, we can arrange a number of excursions based on your own interests. All of our tours are custom, and this is just a sample meant to give an idea of what our trips are like, and the opportunities our destinations provide.
One of our team members in the region will be available to you leading up and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these destinations have to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon arrival, we will provide you with a local SIM that you can use to contact your tour manager throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 2-5 star accommodation options, including boutique hotels, charming B&Bs, and spacious apartments. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambience.

2 Nights in Geneva

2 Nights in Geneva

Switzerland's second city and main French-speaking metropolis, this proud "Protestant Rome" was once John Calvin's capital, but is now famous as the eminently livable "Capital of Peace." A cosmopolitan center of global diplomacy from the Red Cross to much of the UN, Geneva is the scenic spot where the Rhone leaves Lake Geneva. The watchmaker's Mecca, Geneva offers impressive shopping and fine dining, but one of the best activities is free: walking through the Old Town and by the lake. Most of the city is reminiscent of France (which nearly surrounds it) although the more bohemian Carouge district draws plenty of locals thanks to its Mediterranean atmosphere. An hour's drive away, Mont Blanc (the Alps' highest peak) is easy to spot.

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Geneva

Upon arriving to Geneva's airport, a driver will pick you up and take you to your accommodations.

Lakeside Allure

Suggestion to explore on your own

Just arrived in Geneva? Start your adventure by heading to the lake! The lakeside bars are perfect for sipping colorful cocktails, enjoying a glass of bubbly, or simply relaxing with a refreshing drink as you plan your exploration of this beautiful city. Don’t miss the iconic floating Bateau Lavoir, a charming spot reminiscent of the 19th-century "washing boats" where women once did their laundry.

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Geneva

Geneva Old Town Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Once the "Protestant Rome," Geneva has long been known for its leading role in the Protestant Reformation, as marked by its impressive St. Peter's Cathedral. On this tour, you will have the chance to get an insight into Geneva's history and life there today.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 2 hours

Three Areas

Suggestion to explore on your own

Any day of the week, clubs and bars in Geneva invite visitors for a drink or two. A few blocks from the Arve River, "Medicine Street" attracts students seeking drinks and fun. Inexpensive bars and a young spirit await night strollers there. For authentic nightlife of a different kind, head to Rhone's Island, which has bars and restaurants. Last but not least, make for Carouge, the restless bohemian district with French-Italian flair. We recommend seeking out the Chat Noir Jazz Club for a beer, a shot, or just some good music.

Day 3

Day 3 - Traveling to Munich by Airplane

Today you are off to Bavaria's charming capital, Munich. We will arrange a driver to take you to Geneva's airport and a direct flight that will bring you to Munich's airport.

Please note that the flight included in your package is non-refundable. In case you would prefer more flexibility, we can check the flexible fares for you and let you know about the price difference. In addition, the price of the flights is subject to change until we receive your deposit.

3 Nights in Munich

3 Nights in Munich

With its traditional beer halls, designer shops, trendy restaurants and international business, Munich is a mix of old and new, German and cosmopolitan. Largely rebuilt after World War II, the city still retains its old world charm, even in the midst of expansion and modernization. You’ve probably heard of the city’s world famous Oktobertfest, a once-in-a-lifetime party dedicated to that incredible Bavarian beer along with some of the local delicacies, including tasty schnitzel. But there’s much more to Munich than drinking, and on your holiday you’ll have the chance to discover the best this charming city has to offer. Don’t miss out on the beer halls and the breweries, but be sure to get off the beaten path to discover a Munich of your own. Much of the city’s past centers around World War II, and there are several ways you can explore this chapter of Munich’s history, including a day trip to the Dachau concentration camp and a special tour focusing on Hitler and the local activities of the Third Reich. Munich is also a center of industry and there is nowhere better to experience this than BMW World. Moving slightly farther afield, Neuschwanstein Castle makes the perfect day trip, perched high in the hills over a verdant valley. Munich’s variety means there’s more than enough to satisfy even the most diverse groups of travelers. Let your curiosity guide you as you explore this unique German city.

Day 3

Day 3 - Arrival in Munich

When you arrive in Munich, a driver will be waiting to meet you and will then bring you to your centrally located accommodation.

See the City from Above

Suggestion to explore on your own

Although not a city of skyscrapers, Munich offers numerous wonderful viewpoints. The best panoramic views of the Old Town are available from the St. Peter's Church (or "Old Peter," as the locals call it) viewing platform, which is climbed by thousands of visitors every day. Climb the 300 stairs (no elevator available) for the breathtaking views of the Frauenkirche and the Town Hall. Munich's highest point, the Olympic Tower, offers views over the whole city and on a clear day the Alps beyond. You can even enjoy a unique perspective on the city via a modern zeppelin, although these rides are offered rarely, and book up quickly (the zeppelin is generally used for tours of Lake Constance, on the Swiss border).

Day 4

Day 4 - Your First Full Day in Munich

Munich Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Explore Munich's iconic historical landmarks, stunning churches, and renowned beer halls. This tour delves into the darker chapters of the city's 20th-century Nazi history, while also showcasing its vibrant, charming side. Along the way, you'll hear captivating stories and fascinating facts that bring the city’s rich past to life.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 3 hours

Carefree Moments from Sisi's Life

Suggestion to explore on your own

If you have been captivated by the life of Elisabeth, Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary, then follow in her footsteps and visit reminders of the happiest moments of her life. Not only was she born in Munich, she also relished growing up in the Bavarian landscape. Take an S-Bahn train to Starnberg along the Starnberger See. From there, ride a ferry across the lake to Possenhofen, the beloved palace where she spent her summer vacations. For a more urban trip, ride a train to ancient Augsburg, Sisi's "City of Scandal." On these streets (protected by a UNESCO-listed 800-year old water management system), Sissi's brother Duke Ludwig had his scandalous love affair with the actress Henriette Mendel, and Sisi's favorite niece, Marie-Louise, raised a ruckus.

Day 5

Day 5 - Your Second Full Day in Munich

Neuschwanstein Castle Group Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

The "Disney Castle," or "The Eighth Wonder of the Modern World," . There is a reason that Neuschwanstein Castle has quite a number of names. This magnificent building has drawn visitors from all around the world and is sure to take your breath away.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 9 hours

Day 6

Day 6 - Traveling to Salzburg by Train

Leave the big city of Munich behind today for the idyllic Alpine town of Salzburg. It's an easy travel day, as the trip takes about 1.5 hours and there are trains running through the day. Based on your preferred departure time, we'll arrange for a driver to transfer you to the train station. Your package includes second-class tickets with seat reservations. Upgrades to first are available for an additional fee.

You can upgrade your transfer

Salzburg by Private Transfer with a Stop at Neuschwanstein Castle

Upgrade for an additional cost

2 Nights in Salzburg

2 Nights in Salzburg

With its perfectly preserved UNESCO-listed Old Town, Salzburg is internationally renowned for its baroque architecture. Add in the alpine backdrop and you’ve got a city that makes for an unforgettable vacation. The imposing Salzburg Cathedral and Hohensalzburg Fortress dominate the skyline, while in the center you’ll find plenty of grand cafes and fine restaurants. Salzburg’s two biggest claims to fame are that it was the birthplace of Mozart and the stage for the timeless musical The Sound of Music. But there’s more than just history here. Today the city is a vibrant destination for travelers looking for a mix of classic culture and modern flair. Strolling through Salzburg is one of the great pleasures of Europe. The local cuisine is hearty and there are more than enough restaurants, bars, and cafes to keep you busy. Beer lovers shouldn’t miss sampling a stein or two of delicious local brew at the Augustiner brewery. But there is so much to see in the surrounding region that no visit to the city is complete without a day trip or two. You could tour the pristine countryside and visit the stunning Hellbrunn Palace. History buffs will want to venture farther afield to visit Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest perched high in the German Alps in Berchtesgaden.

Day 6

Day 6 - Arrival in Salzburg

Upon your arrival in Salzburg a driver will meet you at the train station and bring you to your hotel.

A Stop on Sisi's Road

Suggestion to explore on your own

Upon your arrival or departure from Salzburg, take a minute and explore the surroundings of the Salzburg train station. First opened in 1860 as a border train station on the Empress Elisabeth Line, this station was part of a route running from Vienna to Bavaria. Rail travel back in those days was quite the chic affair, reflected in an array of appropriately upscale hotels and restaurants located in the immediate vicinity of the station. It should be little surprise then that the station's surroundings are known as the Elisabeth District. A statue of the beloved Empress "Sisi" stands before the Hotel Europa nearby, an ever-present reminder of Salzburg’s illustrious past.

Day 7

Day 7 - Your First Full Day in Salzburg

Salzburg Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Discover the beauty of Mozart's hometown as an experienced guide leads you on a walk through the UNESCO-listed city of Salzburg. Your walk includes all the sightseeing highlights, such Mozart's birthplace and residence, the Getreidegasse, Cathedral, Residenz Palace, and Mirabell Palace, with its splendid gardens. If you come across anywhere you'd like to spend more time and go inside, your expert local guide will tailor the tour to your interests.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 2 hours

One of Europe's Largest Medieval Castles

Suggestion to explore on your own

Hohensalzburg Fortress is enthroned on Salzburg's Festungsberg, high above the rooftops of the city's Baroque center. The biggest fully preserved castle in Central Europe, this emblem of Salzburg draws millions of tourists to the "Mozart City" every year. The fortress is open year-round and can be reached either on foot or by the fortress funicular located in the Festungsgasse. There are several museums worth a visit there, such as the Fortress Museum, the Marionette Museum, the Altes Zeughaus, or the Museum Of The Rainer Regiment, but the fortress' best attraction is its views of Salzburg, and the Alps.

One of Europe's Largest Medieval Castles

Day 8

Day 8 - Traveling to Vienna by Private Transfer

Today you'll trade scenic Salzburg for imperial Vienna. A driver will meet you at your accommodations in Salzburg and take you to Vienna, with a stop at Bad Ischl. A picturesque spa town known for its fine pastries, it's no surprise Emperor Franz Josef spent his summers there. Here in 1853 the 23-year old emperor and the 15-year old girl from the House of Wittelsbach met for the first time. They fell in love and became engaged on August 19, 1853. Be sure to visit the Kaiservilla and the Marmorschlössl "(Little Marble Palace,") specially designed for Princess Elisabeth. With a 2-hour stop, this non-guided transfer takes about seven hours.

Vienna by Private Transfer with a Stop in Bad Ischl

2 Nights in Vienna

2 Nights in Vienna

Vienna is a timeless city of high culture, grand cafes, breathtaking architecture and more, all set on the banks of the majestic Danube River. The moment you set foot in the city you’ll see why Vienna’s center is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Often regarded as the world capital of music, Vienna is the place where Beethoven and Mozart made history. Even today a visit to the opera or a classical music performance at one of the city’s sublime concert halls is an unforgettable experience. Stephansplatz, Vienna's main square, is dominated by the impressive eponymous gothic St. Stephen's Cathedral. Inside you’ll find a rich collection of artistic treasures, and the view from the tower is well worth the climb, offering amazing views over the city. But the cathedral is only one of the most visible attractions in Vienna. You won’t want to miss the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace and the imperial Hofburg Palace. Explore the city on foot, in a car, or by bike: the choice is yours. If you’d like to go farther afield you can even take a river cruise to nearby Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, or a bike trip to local wineries. But you don’t have to leave Vienna to have a wonderful time. Simply strolling through the pedestrian zones in the city center and stopping for a coffee and a slice of cake make for a truly enjoyable vacation.

Day 8

Day 8 - Arrival in Vienna

Your driver will bring you directly to your accommodations upon your arrival.

The Homes and Holidays of the Habsburgs

Suggestion to explore on your own

Vienna stands out from other formerly imperial cities in many ways, but among them are its matchless grandiosity and opulence. A city that embraces centuries of history and traditions, there are three must-see palaces, especially if you want to follow Sisi's footsteps. The most central is the Hofburg, where exploring the Imperial Chambers will give you the clearest idea about the empress' and emperors daily life. Schönbrunn takes you a bit further out, allowing you a glimpse behind the scenes on how the Habsburgs spent their summers. Finally, just 20 minutes from Vienna are the fairy-tale like Laxenburg Castles, where Franz Josef and Sisi honeymooned, amid a complex of family palaces and gardens.

Day 9

Day 9 - Your First Full Day in Vienna

Vienna Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Map out Vienna's Old Town with an insider! The personalized route starts from your hotel and takes you to all the must see sights of the Austrian capital. You'll enjoy a pleasant walk through the Hofburg (Imperial Palace) and its gardens, along the famous Ring Street, then passing by and entering magnificent ecclesiastic edifices like the Stephansdom. The tour will be spiced with stories, fun facts, and recommendations for places to eat, drink, and explore further. By the end, you'll feel like a local.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 2 hours 30 minutes

Where Sisi Rests in Peace - the Imperial Crypt

Suggestion to explore on your own

When in Vienna, don't forget to visit the Imperial Crypt. Built for the Habsburg dynasty, which controlled Austria (and later Austria-Hungary) for centuries, nobles have been laid to rest in the crypt since 1633. 149 Habsburgs, including 12 emperors and 19 empresses and queens, have their final resting places there, including Sisi, her husband Franz Joseph I, and their son. If you are interested, you can choose to take a guided tour in English every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday starting at 3:00 PM. For tickets, opening times, and more information, visit: https://www.kapuzinergruft.com/

Where Sisi Rests in Peace - the Imperial Crypt

Day 10

Day 10 - Traveling to Budapest by Private Car

You'll be picked up from your Vienna accommodation today for a private transfer to beautiful Budapest. The journey takes about 3 hours, so you can depart whenever you choose. The driver will take you directly to your accommodation upon arriving in Budapest. If you'd like to take the opportunity to see another capital city on the way, then Bratislava is ideally located and for a very reasonable additional fee we can arrange for a stop and city tour there with a driver guide along the way. You would even get the chance to try some traditional Slovak food at lunchtime! The vehicle used for your transfer will be a standard sedan, station wagon or minivan. We can arrange for an upgrade to a more luxurious class of vehicle for an extra fee.

3 Nights in Budapest

3 Nights in Budapest

The Paris of Central Europe, Budapest is the Queen of the Danube, a sprawling, regal city split in two halves by the mighty river. The city’s two UNESCO-listed halves, ancient Buda and modern Pest both have their charms and are linked by numerous picturesque bridges. From the Buda Castle to the Danube Embankment and the sprawling Andrassy Avenue, with its impressive architecture, there is plenty to keep you busy here, exploring and discovering this atmospheric city. It’s a little too big to explore only on foot, but the Pest side of the city is well laid out with broad avenues of the Parisian system, so it’s hard to get lost, and the public transportation, including the world's second oldest subway system, works well. Budapest has all the charm of Western Europe at a fraction of the price. Here you can taste excellent wines produced throughout the region, and even enjoy Michelin-star dining in various locations. We can offer you more than enough exciting activities in the city, from a visit to the incredible Parliament building to a boat cruise with dinner, or an exploration of Budapest’s communist past. The city also has a rich Jewish heritage, so you’ll find the perfect balance of history and modern culture here. Voted Best City in Europe in 2013 by Condé Nast Traveler readers and a regular in their top 3, Budapest really is a special city with activities to cater to every interest.

Day 10

Day 10 - Arrival in Budapest

Upon your arrival the driver will take you to your centrally located accommodation.

Budapest's Leading Stars

Suggestion to explore on your own

Although Hungary has long had a reputation for having the region's best cuisine, Budapest itself has become a gastronomical Mecca, thanks to its seven Michelin-starred restaurants. Costes was the city's first Michelin-starred restaurant, earning the distinction in 2016 with a reputation for elevated Hungarian cuisine. Costes' sister location, Costes Downtown is somewhat less formal, with a modern design, open kitchen, and wooden tabletops. Stand is the fine-dining take on Stand25, a beloved casual restaurant, mixing haute cuisine and local traditions. Borkonyha ("Wine Kitchen") has just the cellar you'd expect, with 200 Hungarian wines on offer alongside pan-European fare. Babel focuses on dishes from Transylvania, the head chef's original home, and is known for its theatrical presentation. Choose from the Portuguese or Hungarian menu at Essencia, or Salt for a Scandi-meets-Hungarian fine dining place where you can enjoy a 15-course tasting menu.

Day 11

Day 11 - Your First Full Day in Budapest

Pest Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

When arriving at a new capital for the first time, it's best to have a knowledgeable local show you around. On this tour, an expert local guide will take you around the Pest side of Budapest, home to most of the city's landmarks and history, showing you not just the big-name sights, but introducing you into the everyday lives of the city's citizens.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 3 hours

Buda Private Tour

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

Want to learn more about the history of Budapest's oldest section? This is the perfect tour for you. You'll hear all about the Turkish invasions, other wars, plagues, kings, queens, local life, and many more fascinating stories from Buda Castle. Your guide will show you around the different periods of what was once the separate city of Buda. You'll visit the incredible Mathias Church and you can enjoy the breathtaking views from the Fishermen's Bastion. We recommend taking this tour after the Pest Private Walking Tour. That way you'll have a complete picture of the city.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

Day 12

Day 12 - Your Second Full Day in Budapest

Sisi Group Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Explore Gödöllő Palace, the Baroque former summer residence of Queen Elisabeth and Francis Joseph, just half an hour's drive from Budapest. Wander the grounds with a guide, learned about the storied lives of Franz Josef (the last emperor of Austria-Hungary) and his wife, Empress Elisabeth (better known as "Sisi").

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

The Impressive Museum Of Fine Arts

Suggestion to explore on your own

The Museum of Fine Arts on Heroes' Square (facing the Palace of Art) makes its contents clear start with its Renaissance Revival/Neoclassical facade. Within, you'll find works from big names like Da Vinci, Raffaello, Rembrandt, and Monet. The museum's spacious, grandiose halls are themselves works of art, with classical pillars and marble floors, and have attracted more than just fans of art. The museum has been the settings of films from Die Hard V to The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared.

Day 13

Day 13 - Departure Day

A driver will meet you at your accommodation to take you to the airport for your departing flight.

What's Included

Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.

Geneva

2 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Geneva Airport Transfer

Geneva Old Town Private Walking Tour

Geneva Airport Transfer

Geneva - Munich Flight

Munich

3 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Munich Airport Transfer

Munich Private Walking Tour

Neuschwanstein Castle Group Tour

Munich - Salzburg Train

Munich Train Station Transfer

Salzburg

2 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Salzburg Train Station Transfer

Salzburg Private Walking Tour

Salzburg - Vienna Private Transfer with Stop in Bad Ischl

Vienna

2 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Vienna Private Walking Tour

Vienna - Budapest Private Transfer

Budapest

3 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Pest Private Walking Tour

Sisi Group Tour

Budapest Airport Transfer

package excludes:

Flights to and from Europe.
Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website

Benefits of Traveling with JayWay

A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.

A Travel Advisor who speaks your language

We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.

A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation

Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.

A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions

We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.

Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day

Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.

On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road

Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.

Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out

Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.

Glowing Reviews from Our Guests

4.9 / 5

Average of our Guest's Ratings of vacation packages including these destinations

Joyce, Kenny, Ricky & Rick

Maryland

We were very happy with JayWay and their services. Every aspect of our trip was arranged expertly.

Year : 2025
Visited : Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary
Itinerary : Prague, Salzburg, Vienna, Budapest
Rating :

5 / 5

Robert & Adrienne

New Jersey

Jayway planning and customization is excellent. Their use of technology makes trip planning and communications easy. Having a trip coordinator , easy to get to gives clients a sense of personalization that I rarely experienced

Year : 2024
Visited : Hungary, Austria, Czech Republic
Itinerary : Budapest, Vienna, Salzburg, Prague
Rating :

4.75 / 5

Ian & Solange

Alberta

Our tour through the historic cities of Central Europe can rightly be described as a 'trip of a lifetime', and the JayWay team did an absolutely stellar job in managing our trip every step of the way.

Year : 2024
Visited : Poland, Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary
Itinerary : Krakow, Prague, Salzburg, Vienna, Budapest
Rating :

5 / 5

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