Local expert tips: exploring top European gems in fall and winter

There’s a certain timelessness to Western and Central Europe in the fall and winter months. The weather turns crisp and cool, seasonal shifts fill the air with magic, and both locals and visitors are embraced by time-honored traditions – from the sensory delights of harvest season to the warmth of year-end festivities. If you’re trying to decide on the best time to go to Europe, have a read through these top tips from our local expert Kamilla, who shares everything there is to love about Austria, Germany, and Switzerland in fall and winter.

Exploring Europe in fall and winter: top local expert tips

1. Tell us about the destinations you take travelers to – what makes them special in their own way during fall and winter?

We take travelers to some really magical places across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland – and each has its own charm, especially when the leaves start turning or the snow begins to fall.

Austria is just glowing in the fall. The vineyards in the Wachau Valley turn gold, the alpine meadows go red and orange, and in Vienna, the cafés fill up with people escaping the chill for a hot drink and a slice of cake. The Wiener Wiesn is a nice, smaller alternative to Oktoberfest in Munich, taking place in the world-famous Prater park – definitely a must if you’re there in September.

Come winter, Austria is like stepping into a snow globe – from elegant, festive Vienna to the snow-covered villages in Tyrol, you’ve got everything from culture to ski slopes right at your fingertips. And Christmas markets, of course, all the way.

One of our newer favorite regions in Austria is Carinthia. It’s a bit of a hidden gem—popular with locals for vacations, but slowly gaining attention from international visitors as well. You’ll enjoy stunning mountain views, visit charming vineyards, and chat with passionate winemakers. The wellness hotels are exceptional, and fully serviced ski-in/ski-out chalets await you with breathtaking sunrises and outstanding cuisine.

Germany is a whole mix of traditions and beauty. In Bavaria, you’ve got harvest festivals, castles framed by golden leaves, and that lingering Oktoberfest vibe. If you want something more low-key, Stuttgart’s Oktoberfest is a great option.

In winter, Germany goes full fairy-tale with Christmas markets. Nuremberg, Dresden and Rothenburg ob der Tauber are especially magical – cobblestone streets, lights everywhere, mulled wine in hand… you get the idea.

Switzerland is pure magic. Fall means crisp hikes with unreal views, calm lakeside towns, and that cozy feeling of being somewhere peaceful. And then winter hits, and suddenly it’s all ski slopes, mountain spas, and car-free villages like Zermatt. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures or just fondue by a fire – it’s got both.

Each place really gives you a feel for the season – whether it’s leaves, snow, or something tasty cooking nearby.

2. If you could only pick one, what would be your top fall highlight for each of these destinations?

Oof, that’s a tough one – but here goes:

• Austria: I’d say the Wachau Valley during grape harvest season. Everything revolves around wine and fresh Sturm (that’s the young, bubbly grape must), there are pumpkins everywhere, and the vibe is just super local and lively. Also, don’t miss wine hiking in Vienna – it’s fun, scenic, and includes stops for drinks. Oh, and it’s also my colleague Clemens’ birthday season. Bonus point!
• Germany: Definitely Neuschwanstein Castle surrounded by fall colors. It’s got that postcard-perfect look – a forest of orange and red, the castle perched on a hill… It really feels like a fairy tale.
• Switzerland: The GoldenPass panoramic train ride. It runs from Lucerne to Lake Geneva, and in the fall the views are insane – mountains, forests, lakes – all in these cozy train carriages. Or honestly, any panoramic train ride in the fall is worth it.

3. What are some special experiences travelers can enjoy in the winter season?

Oh yes – winter is full of highlights and little surprises:

The classics:

• Christmas markets: You can’t go wrong. From Vienna to Salzburg, Munich to Basel, the lights, the smells, the handmade stuff – it’s super atmospheric.
• Skiing  and snowboarding: You’ve got world-class slopes in the Arlberg, Bavarian Alps, and of course, all over Switzerland.
• Thermal spas and wellness: One of the best things is sitting in a hot outdoor pool while snow’s falling. Try Leukerbad in Switzerland or Baden-Baden in Germany – so relaxing.

Hidden gems:

• Silent winter hikes: Snowshoeing through places like the Salzkammergut or Engadine Valley is peaceful, stunning, and totally off the tourist path.
• Krampus Runs in Austria: These wild, spooky parades in early December are something you’ve got to see to believe. Folk tradition meets festive chaos.
• Winter rail journeys: Sure, there’s the Glacier Express, but there are also less crowded routes like the Mariazellerbahn in Austria or Voralpen-Express in Switzerland. Amazing scenery, no stress.

4. Between fall and winter travel, which is your favorite time to explore your home and neighboring countries?

If I had to pick… I’d lean toward fall. It’s a bit slower, the colors are unreal, and there’s this cozy vibe everywhere. You can hike in the morning, wander through golden forests, then relax with a glass of wine in a centuries-old cellar.

That said, winter has its own kind of magic – especially if you love snow, festive lights, skiing, or just relaxing in a warm sauna after a cold day out. One of my favorites? Skiing in Austria, followed by dinner in a Michelin-star spot – or just a hearty Austrian stew served straight from the pot. Then wrap it up with après-ski and your own private sauna. Can’t beat it.

5. What would the dream fall/winter itinerary across Austria, Germany and Switzerland look like?

Here’s a 10–12 day dream trip that blends fall and winter perfectly:

• Start in Vienna (3 days): Soak up the culture, enjoy imperial cafés, maybe take a little trip out to the Wachau Valley for wine tasting.
• Head south to Styria and Carinthia (4–5 days): Think wineries, thermal spas, light hikes or skiing depending on the weather – plus amazing views.
• Then up to Salzburg (2 days): Picture-postcard pretty and great for exploring.
• Cross over into Germany, visiting Munich and Garmisch-Partenkirchen: Check out Neuschwanstein, the Zugspitze, and enjoy Bavarian food and beer.
• Wind your way over to Lake Constance, then end your trip in Zurich (2–3 days): Add in a panoramic train like the GoldenPass if you have time!

Depending on your style – more skiing or more chilling – we can shape it around your pace. And for food lovers? The culinary options are seriously next level.

6. Do you have any practical travel advice or tips to share for fall and winter trips to Europe?

Definitely! Here are a few things we always tell our travelers:

• Dress in layers: The weather can change fast, especially in the mountains, so bring clothes you can peel off or add on.
• Book early: Especially for Christmas markets, train tickets, and ski resorts. Things fill up fast in winter.
• Eat seasonally: Try the local dishes that fit the time of year. Goose in November, raclette in winter, fresh wine in the fall. You’ll taste the difference.
• Be honest about what you like: Do you love sunset picnics? We’ll make sure you have the opportunity. Interested in medieval history? Great, we’ll secure the best guides on the topic for you. Want a coffee machine in your room? We’ll ensure that happens. Just tell us what you enjoy, and we’ll build the trip around it.
• Give us a bit of your time: A 30-minute chat is often enough to plan something really personal and fun. Whether you’re into food, culture, or the outdoors, we’ll figure out a route that fits you, not just the guidebook.

Our top trips ideas in Austria, Germany and Switzerland

We’ve rounded up a few of our best itineraries to Europe’s most sought-after fall and winter destinations. Have a browse through them below, and reach out to our local partners if you’re interested in finding out more.

• Iconic cities of Austria, Germany & Switzerland: On this epic nine-day trip, you’ll attend a wonderful classical concert in Vienna, taste wine in Dürnstein, witness the charm of Salzburg with a Sound of Music tour, and take a scenic train ride to Munich. A trip to the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle is of course on the menu, as is Zurich’s indulgent Swiss chocolate scene.
• The Christmas markets of Austria, Germany & Czechia: Experience the gems of Europe on a 15-day self-drive adventure filled with festive cheer! Starting off in Vienna, make your way to equally charming Salzburg, Munich, and Prague (to name just a few), diving into the unique cultural wonders each one has to offer at a magical time of year.
• Luxurious 13-day Swiss Alps & lakes getaway: Flit across Switzerland, Austria and northern Italy on this unforgettable 13-day trip. Marvel at the sight of Lake Lucerne, experience true Alpine beauty in Grindelwald and Interlaken, and enjoy the culinary delights of Italy before soaking up the traditions of alpine and lakeside towns in Austria and Germany.

Make it happen

If you feel inspired by Kamilla’s tips and convinced that fall and winter make up the best time to go to Europe, get in touch today to start planning your dream trip. Whether you’re hoping to visit just one country or make your way across borders, your local expert will put together a personalized itinerary that suits your needs, budget and mood.