Germany, Austria, & Switzerland

12-Day Pilgrimage

Travel with Purpose. Return transformed.

SPIRITUAL DIRECTOR

Fr. John Britto Antony, C.S.C.

PILGRIMAGE DATES

September 21 – October 2, 2026

TRIP COST

$5,599 per person

FLIGHT DEPARTURE

Round-trip from Orlando, FL

“Blessed are those whose strength is in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage.”
– Psalm 84:5

This 12-day pilgrimage through Germany, Austria, and Switzerland offers a simple journey of prayer and reflection, visiting historic churches, monasteries, and Marian shrines set amid the Alps and old European cities. Pilgrims walk in the footsteps of centuries of faith, sharing Mass, quiet devotion, and a deeper sense of spiritual renewal shaped by the region’s long Catholic heritage.

TRIP DETAILS

ITINERARY

DAY 1: FLIGHT TO FRANKFURT – 9/21

Your exciting pilgrimage adventure begins today as you embark on your overnight flight to the vibrant city of Frankfurt, Germany! Get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with rich history and inspiring experiences.

DAY 2: FRANKFURT – 9/22

Welcome to Frankfurt! After arriving and passing through customs, you’ll meet our guide for your pilgrimage adventure. Start with a half-day tour that includes Römerberg, Frankfurt’s charming square filled with medieval buildings and a lively atmosphere. Marvel at the Römer, the city hall since the 15th century, and admire the beautifully restored architecture from post-World War II. Enjoy a delicious dinner and relax overnight at your hotel.

DAY 3: KOBLENZ / RHINE CRUISE / RUDESHEIM / HEIDELBERG – 9/23

Today, we have an exciting tour of Koblenz! We’ll board a scenic boat on the Rhine River, passing Boppard and the famous Lorelei Rock. Enjoy stunning views as we reach Rudesheim, where you can stroll along Drosselgasse, lined with taverns and restaurants. We’ll also visit the Schönstatt Monastery for a heartfelt Mass. The day ends in Heidelberg with dinner and overnight accommodation at your hotel.

DAY 4: HEIDELBERG – 9/24

Discover the stunning ruins of Heidelberg Castle, which features a captivating mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Explore the beautiful castle gardens, see the Great Vat, and visit the Pharmacy Museum. Stroll through the charming old town, with its winding streets and the lively Hauptstrasse, along with the medieval bridge gate and Germany’s oldest university. Don’t forget the lovely lion fountain and university square. Enjoy a delightful dinner and relax at your hotel for the night.

DAY 5: RHINE FALLS / ZURICH – 9/25

After a hearty breakfast, we’ll explore the stunning landscapes of Switzerland! First, we’ll visit the breathtaking Rhine Falls for a great photo opportunity. After lunch on your own, we’ll head to Einsiedeln to see its beautiful Marian shrine, featuring stunning baroque architecture and the impressive Diorama Bethlehem with over 500 carved figures. We’ll celebrate Mass at the Shrine before traveling to Zurich for dinner and a restful overnight stay.

DAY 6: ZURICH / LUCERNE – 9/26

Start your day with a walking tour of picturesque Zurich, including Grossmünster Abbey, St. Peter (with the world’s largest church clock face), Old Town, Town Hall, and Fraumünster, which was fully renovated in 2004 and now offers an exceptional 360° panoramic view of Zurich. Then, enjoy an excursion to Lucerne, visiting iconic sites like Chapel Bridge, Water Tower, and Jesuit Church. After another eventful day, we’ll return to your hotel for dinner.

DAY 7: VADUZ / INNSBRUCK  – 9/27

Our adventure continues in Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein! After a tour of this charming city, we’ll head to Innsbruck, Austria, to see iconic sites like the Annasaule, Little Golden Roof, and Cathedral of St. Jacob. Immerse yourself in Innsbruck’s rich history and culture before enjoying dinner and a restful overnight stay at your hotel.

DAY 8: SALZBURG / SOUND OF MUSIC – 9/28

Today, we embark on a journey to Salzburg, famous for its stunning landscapes and rich musical heritage, as the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for *The Sound of Music*. We’ll visit the Cathedral and Mozart’s birthplace while enjoying the film’s soundtrack. Don’t miss the beautiful architecture and views of the Lake District. Next, we head to Mondsee, where you can explore the charming streets and visit Mondsee Cathedral, the wedding site from the film. Treat yourself to apple strudel or browse local shops before we enjoy dinner and a restful night at our hotel.

DAY 9: VIENNA – 9/29

Our adventure continues in Vienna, the city of musical legends like Schubert and Strauss. We’ll enjoy a delightful lunch en route, then check in at our hotel. If time permits, we’ll explore the vibrant surroundings before a cozy evening and restful night!

DAY 10: VIENNA – 9/30

Get ready for a delightful day in Vienna! We’ll explore charming squares and historic streets, visiting the stunning Vienna Opera House, St Stephen’s Cathedral, and Mozart’s House. Don’t miss the vibrant Naschmarkt and the opulence of Hofburg Palace. After an exciting day, we’ll enjoy dinner and relax at our hotel.

DAY 11: VIENNA / MARIAZELL – 10/1

Today, we’ll head to Styria to visit the beautiful Mariazell Basilica, built in the 14th and 15th centuries, known for its stunning Baroque interiors and “The Magna Mater Austria.” After a delicious lunch and some exploration, we’ll return to Vienna for some relaxation. If time permits, enjoy some leisure activities before our farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

DAY 12: RETURN HOME – 10/2

As our incredible journey comes to an end, we’ll transfer to the airport, filled with unforgettable memories and stories to share from our adventure! Safe travels home!

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Round-Trip Airfare

Land transportation

Professional Tour Guides

Sightseeing/Admission Fees

First-Class Hotels

Breakfast & Dinner

Daily Mass

Medical Insurance

MORE THAN DESTINATIONS

These are spiritual encounters with God!

PREPARATION GUIDE

In anticipation of your forthcoming pilgrimage, we have developed this Nativity Preparation Guide to assist you in adequately preparing for your spiritual journey.

PRAYER BOOK

To enhance your spiritual journey, we have created this pilgrimage prayer book as a companion to carry with you and actively use throughout your spiritual journey.

“A pilgrimage has a vital part to play in our life of faith, for it removes us from our homes and our daily routines, and gives us time and space to encounter God more deeply.” – Pope Leo XIV

 

view looking out of an airplane window, with different cities visible in each. They are Athens, Jerusalem, and Rome, referring to pilgrimage destinations offered by Nativity Pilgrimage.

VIEW OUR UPCOMING TRIPS

 

We provide pilgrims with the opportunity of spiritual travel to
destinations across the globe! Where will your faith take you?