Explore Germany and Italy

Days 1-2

Your group will take an overnight flight into Munich where you will meet your Joshua Expeditions guide at the airport. Heading south, your group will travel to the picturesque Alps on the German/Austrian border, settling into the market town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. This area was a site of the 1936 Winter Olympic Games, and you will depart from there to take an incredible afternoon hike up Partnachklamm (Partnach Gorge). In the evening, your group will enjoy a traditional dinner with Bavarian music and dancing then conclude the day with devotions at your hotel.

Day 3

This day is set aside for outdoor activities in the Garmisch region of the Alps. Your group will travel by cogwheel train up to the top of the Alps then ride a cable car back down this steepest slope in Europe. Those desiring to ski may do so, and there will be ample opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of the world or to take a hike around scenic Lake Eibsee. At the close of the day the group will return to the hotel for devotions. (All activities are weather permitting and dependent on availability. Equipment rental fees are not included in the price of the trip.)

Day 4

Your group will have several options today, including a return to the mountains for more snow activities or simply staying on the ground to enjoy the ample shopping opportunities in the area. After a long day of winter fun, you will close the day at the hotel with a time of devotions and discussion.

Day5

Today your group will travel across the Dolomite Mountains into northern Italy, en route to the majestic city of Florence. In the midst of extraordinary scenery, there will be occasional stops at picturesque towns along the way, allowing ample opportunities for photos. Devotions at the hotel in Florence will round out the day.

Day 6

You will experience Florence today, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Your group will first visit the massive church called the Duomo, including Giotto's Bell Tower and the Gates of Paradise, and you will be inspired by Michelangelo's David when you visit the Galleria dell'Accademia. There will also be opportunities to shop as you stroll along Ponte Vecchio and other famous areas of Florence. Following dinner, the evening will close with devotions and discussion at the hotel.

Day 7

This morning your group will head down the road to the Eternal City of Rome. A quick introduction to the city will take you to the romantic Spanish Steps and the infamous Trevi Fountain before the group returns to the hotel for devotions in the evening.

Day 8

Today you will travel to Vatican City and visit the Sistine Chapel, home of Michelangelo's Last Judgment and other masterful works. A highlight of the day will be touring the Vatican Museum and St. Peter's Basilica, where your group will pause to discuss Catholicism and its impact on Christianity. In the evening you will enjoy another authentic Italian meal before returning to the hotel to wrap up the day with devotions and a time to share personal experiences.

Day 9

On your final full day in Europe you will have opportunity to explore Rome's most famous sites. Your group will visit the 2000-year-old Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Mamertine Prison, known as the traditional site of St. Paul's imprisonment. There will also be time to visit the Pantheon as well as other popular sites around the city before concluding your day with one final Italian meal and group devotions at the hotel.

Day 10

An unforgettable tour comes to an end this morning as your group heads to the airport for the flight home.