For the second installment of Amazing Race Adventures we’re going to uncover some of the incredible places these brave travelers passed through during episode 2. These incredibly determined competitors left Switzerland and headed towards Germany for another series of adventures. Along the way they visited:

• Munich, Germany
• Ruhpolding, Germany
• Schonau Am Konigee, Germany
• Salzburg, Austria (Schloss Hellbrunn)

Image credit: jeffwilcox

There were fewer destinations in this episode, but there were also fewer opportunities to take trains and planes that would land our travelers in out of the way positions. Let’s find out what they missed.

Munich, Germany

The best place to start out when visiting Munich is at the Munich Tourist Office. Here you’ll find information on all of the services available to visitors including guided tours, special events, and the location of some of the best sights in the city.

Image credit: sanfamedia.com

While in Munich you will want to make sure you take the time to visit Alter Peter (the Church of St. Peter). The church is the oldest parish in the city which, if you don’t mind hiking up 306 steps, will provide some of the best views of the area.

Image credit: brewbooks

The Deutsches Museum is another incredible tourist attraction and happens to be one of the largest “scientific-technological” museums in the entire world. Inside you’ll find information chronicling the history of sailing ships, windmills, robots, lifeboats, and much more. The museum aims to help society understand the importance of staying up to date with changes in technology as the world around us advances.

Image credit: ME

Sports lovers also need to include Allianz Arena on their list of must-see attractions. The arena officially opened in 2005 and is the home of the TSV 1860 Munchen and FC Bayern Munchen soccer clubs. The 69,000 seat stadium draws always draws stunning and dedicated crowds on game day.

Ruhpolding, Germany

Ruhpolding, Germany is known for being a delightful destination for both German locals and international tourists alike.  Our travelers, passing through on a paragliding road block mission, really missed out on the area’s incredible beauty and opportunities for relaxation.

Image credit: GAP089

The town of Ruhpolding is rich with Bavarian tradition which is reflected not only in their special festivals and events but in their daily lives as well. The town has only 6,500 residents and is a romantic destination for couples whether they’re looking to enjoy a four-start hotel or a simple bed and breakfast. There are over 700 places to stay in Ruhpolding, so you really won’t have trouble finding a place to relax after exploring some of the area’s museums, churches, and markets.

Shonau am Konigssee, Germany

Shonau am Konigsee, Germany is another small municipality in the state of Bavaria. Located alongside Konigssee Lake, the city relies heavily on visits from tourists for survival.

Image credit: rileyroxx

This small town is home to the oldest bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton track in the world – making it a huge destination for fans of the sport. The track was built in 1968 and has been in operation ever since.

Image credit: rileyroxx

Shonau am Konigsee is known for having hosted a few famous people as well. Anton Adner was burn in Schonau in 1705 and went on to become a famous supercentenarian (someone who lived over the age of 110). Actress Romy Schneider spent part of her life in Shonau as well.

Salzburg, Austria

To conclude the episode, our weary travelers finally left Germany and headed towards Austria. It’s a shame they weren’t able to stay here longer. Salzburg is an incredible city rich with history and adventure.

Image credit: joiseyshowaa

Take, for example, the movie/musical The Sound of Music. Did you know that it was filmed in Salzburg? Many of the movie’s locations were filmed right in the city, including the Benedictine Convent on Nonnberg, Mirabell Gardens and Mirabell Palace, Felsenreitschule, St. Peter’s Cemetery, and many more.

Image credit: sohum

Fans of classical music will enjoy visiting the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart as well. Born in 1756, Mozart was considered a child prodigy and when his youth was no longer a novelty he left Austria to explore the world, visiting Italy to write an opera before traveling to several other destinations, marrying, and dying at the young age of 35.

Image credit: kainet

Those looking to enjoy a season of entertainment and spirit should visit during the summer months for the annual Salzburg Festival. The theme of the 2009 festival is “The Game of the Powerful” and will feature a number of concerts, dramas, and opera performances throughout the city.

Germany and Austria certainly set the backdrop for travel experiences full of breathtaking views and cultural experiences. Make sure you add one or two of these incredible towns and cities on your list of places to visit in your lifetime. You won’t regret your choices.