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15-day Germany, Austria, Switzerland Tour

SALZBURG, AUSTRIA

See sights made famous by the Sound of Music movie

Filzmoos, austria.

From this mountain village your alpine vistas are unparalleled

Rothenburg, germany.

There's something to enchant everyone in this quaint storybook village

Innsbruck, austria.

The beauty of this imperial city will take your breath away

Munich, germany.

The Marienplatz is the center of activity in the Bavarian capital

Nuremberg, germany.

Half timbered houses and cobblestone streets are common sights of this medieval city

Rhine river, germany.

Enjoy a scenic boat ride down this legendary waterway

Black forest, germany.

Watch skilled artisans craft the iconic cuckoo clock

Heidelberg, germany.

Get a spectacular view from the town's hilltop castle

Lucerne, switzerland.

Some say this is the loveliest of all Swiss cities

Pricing disclaimer.

15-day tour featuring Nuremberg, Rothenburg, Munich, Tyrol, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Vaduz in Liechtenstein, Lucerne, Rhine Falls, Black Forest, Heidelberg, and Rüdesheim. Travel to the land of fairy-tale villages, medieval castles, pristine lakes, and stunning alpine vistas. Multiple-night stays in six endearing towns including "Sound of Music" sites in and around Salzburg. Sip ale from a stein at Munich’s festive Oktoberfest fairgrounds ( on select departures )and see the Golden Roof balcony built for royalty in imperial Innsbruck. Take a cable car ride in the Swiss Alps ( optional excursion ), witness Europe’s largest waterfall at Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen, and see where cuckoo clocks are hand-crafted in the Black Forest. Join us for an unforgettable journey! Highest Elevation : Tours may take the Gerlos Pass which is 4,921 feet or the Arlberg Pass at 5,883 feet. Hotels in Austria and Switzerland are located as high as 3,500 feet.

Tour Year 2024

Tour itinerary.

DAY 1 - Overnight flight to Europe.

The Trip Documents will provide guidance for airport check-in and for your arrival in Europe. Relax on your transatlantic flight with the assurance that Image Tours has taken care of all the details.

DAY 2 - GERMANY . . Arrival at Frankfurt Airport – Bavaria.

Upon arrival at Frankfurt Airport, clear passport control and collect your luggage. Refer to the “Arrival Instructions” in the Trip Documents for directions on where and when to meet your tour manager. Settle into your comfortable motor coach for a ride through the Main River Valley and the Franconian Wine Region on the way to your hotel in the scenic and festive state of Bavaria. Get acquainted with your fellow tour participants during the “Welcome to Europe” dinner at the hotel. (Dinner)

DAY 3 - GERMANY . . Nuremberg – Rothenburg – Bavaria.

Your bus transfer into the city center introduces you to the history of Nuremberg. Hitler staged his propaganda rallies here, and after his fall, Nuremberg was chosen as the location for the War Trials. For additional insight, visit the Documentation Center at the site of the Nazi Party Rally Grounds (approximately €6 admission fee). If you prefer a lighter subject, enter the Toy Museum (approximately €7 admission fee), celebrating Nuremberg’s tradition as the “City of Toys.” Spend the afternoon in the enchanting medieval village of Rothenburg. When you see the well-preserved walls, cobblestone streets, distinctive inns, and Käthe Wohlfahrt’s Weihnachtsdorf (a whimsical Christmas shop), it feels as if you are walking into a fairy tale. Return to your hotel for an authentic German dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 4 - GERMANY . . Munich & AUSTRIA . . Filzmoos.

Travel to the Bavarian capital of Munich for a panoramic city tour, including views of the Olympic Village, the Bohemian district of Schwabing and the Königsplatz. Walk through the pedestrian-only Marienplatz (main square) with the Rathaus (Town Hall) and its captivating Glockenspiel (clock tower). In late September, spend the majority of your free time experiencing the festivities of Oktoberfest at the fairgrounds. This afternoon, as you cross into Austria and drive through the province of Salzburg, admire the mountain-fed rivers and flower-laden meadows. Arrive in the village of Filzmoos, and enjoy Austrian hospitality during dinner at the hotel. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 5 - AUSTRIA . . Salzburg - Filzmoos.

The entire day focuses on the province of Salzburg with special attention to the sites made famous by the “Sound of Music.” Visit Mondsee to see the church where they filmed the wedding of Maria and Captain Von Trapp. In the city of Salzburg, stop at the gazebo that was used to film Liesl singing “16 going on 17” and Mirabell Gardens where several “Do Re Mi” scenes were filmed. The walking tour includes Residenz Square where Maria sings “I Have Confidence in Me.” Spend the afternoon shopping in the charming pedestrian-only area of the Old Town, exploring the Salzburg High Fortress, or visiting Mozart’s Birthplace (approximately €12 admission fee). Take a stroll through Saint Peter's Abbey and Cemetery where, in the movie, the Von Trapp family hides from the Nazis. After an independent dinner, return to your hotel in Filzmoos. (Breakfast)

DAY 6 - AUSTRIA . . Filzmoos.

The day is at your leisure. Choose from an abundance of mountain paths for an exhilarating hike or bike ride with awe-inspiring panoramas. Or, simply relax in your Austrian village surrounded by the boundless splendor of the Alps. This afternoon, your tour manager will invite you for an optional Eagle’s Nest excursion (see Optional Excursions), combining history with incredible views. Rejoin your group for a traditional Austrian dinner at your hotel. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 7 - AUSTRIA . . Innsbruck – Tyrolean Village.

Admire the glorious scenery during your drive to Innsbruck, capital of Tyrol. The Golden Roof, the symbol of Innsbruck, is decorated with 2,657 copper shingles. Completed in 1500, Maximillian I commissioned the building of this covered balcony to celebrate his wedding and used it as a royal box to view the entertainment in the square below. You will have time to shop for the famed Swarovski Crystal and to explore the old city center with the Maria Theresien Boulevard, Triumphal Arch and exquisite Imperial Church. Your chalet-style hotel for the next two nights is located in a Tyrolean Village a short distance from Innsbruck. Choose a local restaurant for your independent dinner or join the optional  Tyrolean Show & Dinner excursion (see Optional Excursions) for a light-hearted presentation of Austrian folklore, music and dancing. (Breakfast)

DAY 8 - AUSTRIA . . Tyrolean Village near Innsbruck.

The peaceful villages, tucked in the valleys around Innsbruck, are the perfect location for a relaxing day. Frescoed and flower-adorned chalets create an idyllic atmosphere as you walk through town. Viewed from an outdoor café or along one of the numerous hiking paths, the Tyrolean Alps present breathtaking scenery. If you wish to return to Innsbruck, hotel staff can advise on local transportation, or you can choose the full-day optional Neuschwanstein & Linderhof excursion (see Optional Excursions). At the end of the day, return to your Tyrolean hotel for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 9 - LIECHTENSTEIN . . Vaduz & SWITZERLAND . . Swiss Alps.

Depending on the weather, depart Austria by way of the Arlberg Pass or through the engineering masterpiece of the Arlberg Tunnel. Following a stop in Vaduz, the capital city of Liechtenstein, cross the border into Switzerland. For the next two nights you will stay in a cozy village surrounded by the Swiss Alps. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 10 - SWITZERLAND . . Stans – Lucerne – Swiss Alps.

Stop in the old mountain village of Stans for the optional Swiss Mountain excursion (see Optional Excursions), offering thrilling panoramic views by funicular and cable car. You will have a full afternoon to discover Lucerne’s picturesque covered bridge, famous Lion Monument and other special treasures. The soaring mountain peaks of Rigi and Pilatus standing guard over Lake Lucerne create one of the most imposing sights in Europe. Before returning to your hotel for dinner, consider joining your tour manager for an optional Swiss Lake Boat Ride excursion (see Optional Excursions). (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 11 - SWITZERLAND . . Schaffhausen Rhine Falls & GERMANY . . Black Forest.

After a Swiss breakfast, travel north to the impressive and powerful Rhine River Falls, near the town of Schaffhausen. An extended visit allows time for an independent lunch and to see the falls by boat (approximately €10) or from viewing platforms accessible on foot by paths and stairways. Return to Germany for a two-night stay in the renowned Black Forest. Dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 12 - GERMANY . . Black Forest.

Escape modern life and behold the natural beauty of the rustic villages nestled between the thickly wooded mountains. The landscape and history of the Black Forest come to life while visiting some of the region’s treasured highlights such as the waterfall of Triberg, the Schwarzwaldmuseum (Black Forest Museum), and a local artisan’s clock shop. This is your chance to examine authentic hand-carved and hand-detailed Black Forest cuckoo clocks. During an independent dinner, become better acquainted with this lovely area. (Breakfast)

DAY 13 - GERMANY . . Heidelberg – Rüdesheim.

Winding past peaceful villages and farmhouses, depart the Black Forest on the way to historic Heidelberg, situated in the Neckar Valley. This famous university town is immortalized in the operetta “The Student Prince.” Walk through the Old Town or take the funicular (approximately €9) for a close-up look at the ruins of Heidelberg’s red sandstone castle. Continue to your hotel in Rüdesheim. Located among the vineyards of the Rhine wine region, Rüdesheim is known for its festive atmosphere. An independent dinner presents the chance to try Federweisser (feather wine) with Zwiebelkuchen (onion cake) while enjoying Rüdesheim’s tradition of live music and merriment. (Breakfast)

DAY 14 - GERMANY . . Rüdesheim.

A full day in Rüdesheim provides the opportunity to walk along the attractive Rhine River promenade and the enchanting Drosselgasse, the main shopping street. You may wish to join the optional Rhine Cruise & Cable Car excursion (see Optional Excursions), presenting magnificent views of the Rhine River Valley. During tonight’s “Farewell Dinner,” celebrate the highlights of your journey. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 15 - Daytime flight back to U.S.A.

Transfer to the Frankfurt Airport for your return flight home. (Breakfast)

Travel Time

Overnight flight from the U.S.A to Europe.

Arrive at Frankfurt Airport in Germany. Board your motor coach for a scenic ride (1¾ hrs) through the Main River Valley Region. Then continue (1½ hrs) to the festive state of  Bavaria  for a two-night stay. Welcome dinner at the hotel. (Dinner)

Start the day with a panoramic tour (1½ hrs) of Nuremberg followed by independent sightseeing. Transfer (1½ hrs) to the beautifully-preserved, medieval village of Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber , where you will spend the afternoon. Return (1½ hrs) to your Bavaria hotel   for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Motor to your morning stop (1½ hrs) on the way to the elegant Bavarian Capital of Munich for a panoramic city tour (1½ hrs), followed by free time at the pedestrian-only square of the old town (Marienplatz). Make a short stop (1½ hrs) near the German/Austrian border before traveling (1½ hrs) through the scenic Alps. The charming mountain village of Filzmoos will host you for a three-night stay. (Breakfast, Dinner)

The entire day focuses on the province of Salzburg with sights made famous by the “Sound of Music.” Begin with a stop in Mondsee (1¼ hrs) and views of the Van Trapp Home (¼ hr) followed by a tour of Salzburg (1¼ hrs). This afternoon provides additional time to explore this historic city and have an independent dinner before returning to your hotel (1 hr). (Breakfast)

The day is at your leisure to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. In the afternoon join the optional Eagle's Nest excursion (1½ hr transfer each way), to Hitler's mountain hide-away. Return to your hotel for a traditional Austrian dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Admire the scenery as you drive from the region of Salzburg to Tyrol (2½ hrs), stopping for a short morning break. Continue (2 hrs) to the beautifully-situated imperial city of Innsbruck . Spend the afternoon in Innsbruck's Old Town. Toward dinner time, proceed (½ hr) to a Tyrolean village for a two-night stay. Have an independent dinner or join the optional Tyrolean Show & Dinner excursion (½ hr transfer each way). (Breakfast)

Enjoy a free day in your peaceful Tyrolean village or join the full-day optional Neuschwanstein & Linderhof excursion which includes travel to Neuschwanstein Castle (2 hrs), Linderhof Palace (1¼ hrs), and a return to your Tyrolean hotel (1½ hrs). (Breakfast, Dinner)

This morning travel through breathtaking scenery (1½ hrs). After a morning stop, continue (1½ hrs) to Vaduz in the tiny principality of Liechtenstein. Cross the border into Switzerland (1½ hrs) for a stop in one of the charming towns. Proceed (½ hr) to your hotel in the beautiful Swiss Alps for a two-night stay. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Travel (1 hr) to the mountain resort of Stans , with the opportunity to take an optional Swiss Mountain funicular ride. Continue to Lucerne (½ hr) for sightseeing and the optional Swiss Lake Boat Ride excursion. Return (1 hr) to your hotel in the Swiss Alps. (Breakfast, Dinner)

After breakfast, travel north to Zurich (1 ½ hrs). Continue (1 hr) to Schaffhausen for a view of the imposing Rhine River Falls . Next, cross the German border, enter the enchanting Black Forest region and head to your hotel (1½ hrs) for an included group dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

The landscape and history of the Black Forest come to life while visiting some of the region's treasured highlights such as the waterfall of Triberg, the Schwarzwaldmuseum (Black Forest Museum), and a local artisan's clock shop (Travel times between stops varies from ½ hr to 1 hr). Return (½ hr) to your hotel. (Breakfast)

DAY 13 - GERMANY. . Heidelberg – Rüdesheim.

Travel (1½ hrs) through the northern part of the Black Forest . Continue (2 hrs) to historic Heidelberg to visit the Old Town. Late afternoon ride (1¾ hrs) to Rüdesheim , located on the Rhine River, for a two-night stay. (Breakfast)

The wine village of Rüdesheim is known for its festive appearance and laid-back lifestyle. For your last day in Europe, relax in Rüdesheim, or consider the optional Rhine Cruise & Cable Car excursion (¾ hr transfer), featuring a 2½-hour boat ride on the romantic Rhine River and a cable car ride for views of the scenic Rhine valley. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Transfer to the Frankfurt Airport (1½ hrs) for your return flight home. (Breakfast )

Favorite Traveler Experiences

•   Walk on the walls surrounding the medieval town of Rothenburg
•   Sip ale from a stein at Munich’s festive Oktoberfest fair grounds
•   Relive the “Sound of Music” as you visit movie sites in Salzburg
•   See the Golden Roof balcony built for royalty in imperial Innsbruck
•   Take a cable car ride in the unsurpassed splendor of the Swiss Alps
•   Witness Europe’s largest waterfall at Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen
•   See where cuckoo clocks are hand-crafted in the Black Forest
•   Get a spectacular view of Heidelberg from its hilltop castle
•   Accommodations in Superior Tourist Class or First Class hotels
•   13 Breakfasts and 9 Dinners in addition to any in-flight meals
•   Tour Manager for the full European duration of the tour
•   Land Transportation in Europe by deluxe, air-conditioned motor coach
•   Image Tours Touroclopedia® trip preparation tips
•   Trip Documents with luggage tags, final details and travel guidance

Traveler Reviews

Thomas & janice w..

The Availability, Departure Dates, and Rates are for illustration and planning purposes only. Since final pricing and single availability can only be confirmed with a travel agent, steps 4 & 5 of this on-line booking module is reserved for your travel agent only. (Please Call) indicates that we still have some tour availability; however, you should have your travel agent call our office to confirm air availability.

Select Departure Month

Upcoming departures, sep 19, 2024, oct 03, 2024, $4,240 p.p.d.o., sep 23, 2024, oct 07, 2024, sep 22, 2025, oct 06, 2025, $4,290 p.p.d.o., tour hotels.

Meiser Design Hotel

• Mini-Bar/Fridge
• In-Room Safe
• Lift Accessible
• Fitness Area

Alpenhotel Wurzer

• in-room safe

Gasthof Bad Hochmoos

• indoor pool

Hotel Eierhals Royal

Central Hotel Freiburg

• air conditioning
• safety deposit box at reception

Hotel Felsenkeller

Optional excursions.

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS DETAILS

Our tours are carefully planned to offer a comfortable balance of sightseeing, entertainment and leisure time. Optional Excursions provide the flexibility to choose between leisure time or additional guided sightseeing activities. Unless otherwise noted, optional excursions must be booked with and paid to your tour manager during the tour. Prices are in U.S. Dollars. MASTERCARD®, VISA®, or DISCOVER® (no other credit cards are accepted) are recommended to avoid carrying excessive cash and exchange rate fluctuations. You must be able to present the actual card to your tour manager. If you bring a DISCOVER® card, also bring a VISA® or MASTERCARD®, as DISCOVER® is not widely accepted in Europe. Cash payments during the tour must be in Euros. Personal checks and traveler’s checks are not accepted. The operation of all excursions is subject to sufficient participation, and some excursions are subject to favorable weather conditions. Your tour manager reserves the right to make changes or cancel excursions at their sole discretion.

EAGLE'S NEST

Visit Hitler’s former hideaway, known as the Eagle’s Nest. Upon arrival in Berchtesgaden, Germany, a mountain bus takes you on a breathtaking drive up a steep, winding road. An elevator built into the mountain brings you to the top, where you will have impressive panoramic views over both Austria and Germany. Operation of this excursion is subject to favorable weather conditions. In the case of halted bus operation, we will substitute a visit to the Obersalzburg Documentation Center.

TYROLEAN SHOW & DINNER

Begin the evening with a typical Austrian dinner, including your choice of beer, wine or soft drink. After dinner, the Gundolf Family welcomes you at their theater in Innsbruck to present Tyrolean Folklore through a series of entertaining performances. The show features customary clothing, traditional songs, unique dances, amusing instruments and expert yodeling.

NEUSCHWANSTEIN & LINDERHOF

Visit the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, inspiration for the Disney castle. A 30-minute walk up hill and a 45-minute tour scaling several winding staircases with over 300 steps, is rewarded by a fascinating look at the castle's intriguing design. In the late afternoon, tour the extravagant French rococo interior of the Linderhof Palace. (maximum elevation 4,000 feet)

SWISS MOUNTAIN

Reach the summit of Mount Stanserhorn (elevation 6,232 feet) by both cog-wheel train and the world’s only open-top cable car. At the highest stop, enjoy the panoramic views from the terrace, take a walk along the paths, and snap pictures of the magnificent alpine vistas. This excursion is subject to favorable weather and cable car operation, and may be rescheduled or cancelled. In some cases, another mountain may be substituted.

SWISS LAKE BOAT RIDE

Board a steamer for a scenic ride on Lake Lucerne. The lake borders four cantons (states) of Switzerland and, for this reason, is also known as Vierwaldstättersee ("Lake of the Four Forest Cantons"). Your cruise will provide splendid views of the surroundings, comprised of mountain cliffs rising up to 5,000 feet, picturesque villages, and gorgeous lakeside resort homes.

RHINE CRUISE & CABLE CAR

Cruise past medieval fortresses, enchanting villages and hillside vineyards along the Rhine River. Back on land, take a guided tour of the unique Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum. End the excursion with a cable car ride up to the Niederwald Monument, affording beautiful views of the Rhine River Valley.

Tour Extensions

Rüdesheim post-tour extension, tour year 2025.

Today begins your Germany, Austria, Switzerland adventure. The Image Tours “Departure Instructions” will provide guidance for airport check-in. Relax on your transatlantic flight with the assurance that Image Tours has taken care of all the details.

Refer to the “Arrival Instructions” for directions on where and when to meet your Tour Manager. Settle into your comfortable motor coach for a ride through the Main River Valley and the Franconian Wine Region on the way to your hotel in the scenic and festive state of Bavaria. Get acquainted with your fellow tour participants during the “Welcome to Europe” dinner at the hotel. (Dinner)

Your bus transfer into the city center introduces you to the history of Nuremberg. Hitler staged his propaganda rallies here, and after his fall, Nuremberg was chosen as the location for the War Trials. For additional insight, visit the Documentation Center at the site of the Nazi Party Rally Grounds (admission fee). If you prefer a lighter subject, enter the Toy Museum (admission fee), celebrating Nuremberg’s tradition as the “City of Toys.” Spend the afternoon in the enchanting medieval village of Rothenburg. When you see the well-preserved walls, cobblestone streets, distinctive inns, and Käthe Wohlfahrt’s Weihnachtsdorf (a whimsical Christmas shop), it feels as if you are walking into a fairy tale. Return to your hotel for an authentic German dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

The entire day focuses on the province of Salzburg with special attention to the sites made famous by the “Sound of Music.” Visit Mondsee to see the church where they filmed the wedding of Maria and Captain Von Trapp. In the city of Salzburg, stop at the gazebo that was used to film Liesl singing “16 going on 17” and Mirabell Gardens where several “Do Re Mi” scenes were filmed. The walking tour includes Residenz Square where Maria sings “I Have Confidence in Me.” Spend the afternoon shopping in the charming pedestrian-only area of the Old Town, exploring the Salzburg High Fortress, or visiting Mozart’s Birthplace (admission fee). Take a stroll through Saint Peter's Abbey and Cemetery where, in the movie, the Von Trapp family hides from the Nazis. After an independent dinner, return to your hotel in Filzmoos. (Breakfast)

Tucked into the valleys around Innsbruck, the peaceful Tyrolean villages are the perfect location for a relaxing day. Frescoed and flower-adorned chalets create an idyllic alpine atmosphere as you walk through town. Viewed from an outdoor café or along one of the numerous hiking paths, the Tyrolean Alps present breathtaking scenery. If you wish to return to Innsbruck, hotel staff can advise on local transportation, or you can choose the full-day optional Neuschwanstein & Linderhof excursion (see Optional Excursions). At the end of the day, return to your Tyrolean hotel for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Stop in the old mountain village of Stans for the optional Swiss Mountain excursion (see Optional Excursions), offering thrilling panoramic views by funicular and cable car. You will have a full afternoon to discover Lucerne’s picturesque covered bridge, famous Lion Monument and other special treasures. The soaring mountain peaks of Rigi and Pilatus standing guard over Lake Lucerne, creating one of the most imposing sights in Europe. Before returning to your hotel for dinner, consider joining your tour manager for an optional Swiss Lake Boat Ride excursion (see Optional Excursions). (Breakfast, Dinner)

After a Swiss breakfast, travel north to the impressive and powerful Rhine River Falls, near the town of Schaffhausen. An extended visit allows time for an independent lunch and to see the falls by boat (admission fee) or from viewing platforms accessible on foot by paths and stairways. Return to Germany for a two-night stay in the renowned Black Forest. Dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Escape modern life and behold the natural beauty of the rustic villages nestled between the thickly wooded mountains. The history of the Black Forest come to life while visiting some of the region’s treasured highlights. See the waterfall of Triberg, the Schwarzwaldmuseum (Black Forest Museum), and the clock shop of a local artisan. This is your chance to examine authentic hand-carved and hand-detailed Black Forest cuckoo clocks. During an independent dinner, become better acquainted with this lovely area. (Breakfast)

Winding past peaceful villages and farmhouses, depart the Black Forest on the way to historic Heidelberg, situated in the Neckar Valley. This famous university town is immortalized in the operetta “The Student Prince.” Walk through the Old Town or take the funicular (admission fee) for a close-up look at the ruins of Heidelberg’s red sandstone castle. Continue to your hotel in Rüdesheim. Located among the vineyards of the Rhine wine region, Rüdesheim is known for its festive atmosphere. An independent dinner presents the chance to try Federweisser (feather wine) with Zwiebelkuchen (onion cake) while enjoying Rüdesheim’s tradition of live music and merriment. (Breakfast)

A full day in Rüdesheim provides the opportunity to walk along the attractive Rhine River promenade and the enchanting Drosselgasse, the main shopping street. You may wish to join the optional Rhine Cruise & Cable Car excursion (see Optional Excursions), offering magnificent views of the Rhine River Valley. During tonight’s “Farewell Dinner,” celebrate the highlights of your journey with your fellow passengers. (Breakfast, Dinner)

•   Experience Munich's lively Oktoberfest when traveling in late September
•   Tour Manager for the full duration of the tour within Europe
•   Trip Documents with final details and travel guidance

BLACK FOREST CAKE WORKSHOP

The famous regional dessert takes center stage as you work with a professional to assembe your own delicious Black Forest Cake. All the ingredients are provided and you are artfully guided through the assembly and decorating process. At the conclussion of the visit, taste your creatation and recieve a copy of the recipe to make at home.

15-day Germany, Austria, Switzerland Tour Map

A Week in Switzerland, Germany & Austria

9 days   |   11 days with Prague extension

4.7 out of 5 stars

Experience the peaks of Central European culture across a trio of destinations.

Switzerland, Germany, and Austria—all mountainous, all momentous. From Lucerne’s riverside promenades to Bavaria’s natural majesty to Vienna’s cultured cafes, this weeklong itinerary showcases the best of three sensational countries. The castle that inspired Sleeping Beauty’s? You’ll find it here, along with landscapes that spurred some of the world’s finest classical compositions. And if you’re interested in architectural paradise, take up the trip’s extension to Prague and lose yourself among its whimsical spires.

Your tour package includes

• 7 nights in handpicked hotels
• 7 breakfasts
• 3 dinners with beer or wine
• 6 sightseeing tours
• Expert Tour Director & local guides
• Private deluxe motor coach

Included highlights

• Kapellbrücke
• Neuschwanstein
• Nymphenburg Palace
• Salzburg Cathedral
• Belvedere Palace

Overnight Flight 1 night

Day 1: travel day.

Board your overnight flight to Zurich today.

Swiss Alps 2 nights

Day 2: arrival in zurich & transfer to the swiss alps.

Included meal : Welcome dinner

Welcome to Switzerland—or, as they say in the local dialect, grüezi (“GROO-tsee”)! From the Zurich airport, transfer to your hotel in the Swiss Alps, where you’ll meet your Tour Director and the rest of your group. Unwind, then continue getting to know one another over a welcome dinner, served with beer or wine.

Start planning today

Our travel experts are here to help.

We handpick every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm. Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date, but these are frequently used hotels for this tour and we're confident you'll be satisfied.

Grand Hotel Europe

This Belle Époque hotel is located near the lake promenade. Guests enjoy a restaurant, bar, and outdoor terrace. Nearby, you’ll find Lake Lucerne, Chapel Bridge, and the Swiss Museum of Transport.

NYX Hotel Munich

This artsy hotel is located in the Obersendling district. Guests enjoy a restaurant, bar, and sauna. Nearby you’ll find the Hellabrunn Zoo, the Theresienwiese Oktoberfest grounds, and a variety of restaurants and bars.

Arcotel Castellani

This contemporary hotel is located in Salzburg city center. Guests enjoy the large garden, fitness center, and restaurant. Nearby, you'll find the Salzburg Old Town, Mozart's birthplace, and Fortress Hohensalzburg.

MAXX by Steigenberger Hotel Vienna

This convenient hotel is located in the city center of Vienna, Austria. Guests enjoy the fitness area, on-site bar and restaurant, and spa. Nearby you’ll find the Naschmarkt open-air market, Leopold Museum, and Schönbrunn Palace.

NH Prague City

This modern hotel is located in the Smíchov district of Prague. Guests enjoy a gym and sauna, restaurants with terraces, and a tennis court. Nearby, you’ll find Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, and Petřín Tower.

Round-trip flights are one more thing we handle to make your journey as smooth as possible. Our team of travel experts will find the best flight itinerary for you at a competitive rate, thanks to our partnerships with top airlines.

Add our airfare and you’ll get:

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes

Find out more about flights

• This tour visits Switzerland, Germany, and Austria (plus the Czech Republic on the tour extension). In order to enter these countries, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• Beginning in 2025, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must register for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to enter many European countries.
• Passport holders from over 60 visa-exempt countries (including the U.S. and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to visit 30 European countries. That means that even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these European countries without a visa, starting in 2025, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you only need to complete the form once. All Go Ahead travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center .
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code SGA.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Zurich and depart from Vienna (or Prague on the tour extension).
• Transfers to and from the airport at the beginning and end of the tour are included for travelers who purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who booked their own flights are responsible for securing their own airport transfers.
• When you arrive in Zurich, a Go Ahead representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with a Go Ahead sign or a sign with your name(s). If you don’t see a representative immediately, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly.

Physical Activity Level

This is a high physical activity-level tour. You can expect to be on the move on a regular basis throughout the course of the tour.

Tour Pacing

This is a brisk-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect:

• One 1-night stay
• Most days full of included activities (more if you add excursions)
• Most transportation by motor coach
• Daily bus time varies and can be lengthy

Walking, Terrain & Physical Requirements

• Travelers should be prepared to walk 2-3 miles per day- this includes city streets, cobblestones, stairs, and hills.
• Cobblestone streets can become slick when wet.
• During the visit to Neuschwanstein, travelers can expect to walk 25 minutes uphill on a steep incline to view the castle and further walking to get to the castles entrance, if they wish.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance.
• Please Note: Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.

Climate Considerations

• In the summer months from June to September, travelers can expect high temperatures from 70Fs -80Fs and lows from 50Fs-60Fs with occasional extreme heatwaves.

Physical Activity & Tour Pace Questions

• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual.
• Due to the pace and physical activity level of this tour, mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers will be difficult to use and are not recommended. Please notify Go Ahead Tours before your departure if you plan to bring these on tour with you.
• If you have mobility concerns or tour pace questions, please visit our Help Center or send a message to our Customer Experience Team. We’re here to help!
• Most transportation on this tour is by private motor coach. Private motor coaches have steps required to board and often do not provide access to ramps or lifts.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• Travelers must manage their own luggage throughout tour as porters are not guaranteed. This includes at hotels and airports.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• It is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
• We recommend packing a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastic waste.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
• In case of emergencies, we also recommend packing your medical insurance card in your carry-on.
• Go Ahead handpicks every hotel you’ll stay at, striking a balance between comfort, location, and local charm.
• Specific properties will vary based on your departure date, but are typically three-to-four-star hotels; always include private bathrooms; and usually have in-room safes for valuables. Additionally, your hotels will have Wi-Fi, but access may be limited to common areas. There may also not be elevators.
• Unfortunately, we can’t guarantee that your accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. We recommend checking directly with your hotels once they’ve been confirmed, about 30 days prior to departure.
• Some hotels on this tour are situated on narrow streets; as such, our buses can’t drop you off right out front. In these instances, you’ll have to walk your luggage to the property, no more than a few blocks.
• Please be advised that the air conditioning in European hotels and buildings is often not as strong or cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada.
• All destinations visited on this tour operate on the European standard 220–240 volts and use Type C or F plugs with two small, round pins. You may also use a Type J plug, with three small pins, in Switzerland.
• Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date.
• Excursions are available for purchase prior to departure, and most excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app for an additional $10 USD.
• We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
• Optional excursions may be canceled on tour due to reasons like low enrollment, weather or unexpected closures. If an excursion you signed up for is canceled by Go Ahead Tours, you will be refunded the full cost of the excursion. Please note it may take up to 60 days for your refund to be processed.
• Your Tour Director may offer their own optional excursions which can only be purchased on tour via cash (in local currency).
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website at cdc.gov .
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• Most of our itineraries include headsets used during certain sightseeing tours so travelers can hear their guides or Tour Director. If you use an assisted listening device, such as a hearing aid or cochlear implant, please visit our Help Center for more information or contact our customer experience team. Please note that at this time not all our destinations offer headsets due to supplier limitations.
• The water is safe to drink throughout your tour unless posted otherwise.
• This tour includes three dinners: They may be set menus, buffets, or family-style meals, depending on the location. Dinners also include one glass of beer, wine, or a soft drink, as well as water, coffee, and tea.
• Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options.
• Swiss food is varied and sophisticated, and some popular dishes include sausages, breaded veal fillets, freshwater fish, and cheese dishes such as fondue and raclette. Be sure to try Swiss chocolate, which is among the world’s finest.
• German food is hearty and substantial. Among the specialties are dumpling stews, sauerkraut, sausages, smoked cheeses, and dark breads. Bavaria produces some of the world’s purest beers, and white German wines are exceptionally good.
• Austria is known for its savory Wiener schnitzel and excellent wild trout, carp, and crayfish. Save room for dessert—especially the strudels of fruit and nuts and elegant chocolate cakes, such as the world-famous Sachertorte.
• On the tour extension, Czech food is hearty, and you’ll find large portions of veal, beef, and potato dishes. Some of the world’s finest beers are produced here, including the original Budweiser and Pils.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• If you are traveling to multiple countries with different currencies and the same Tour Director, ask them what currency they prefer for their tip.
• The cost of porterage is included in your tour price, and it is not necessary to tip baggage handlers.
• You will use the Swiss franc in Switzerland and the euro in Germany and Austria (and the Czech koruna in the Czech Republic on the tour extension).
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your tour director, local guides, and bus drivers. We also recommend keeping coins in the local currency on hand, as some public bathrooms may charge a fee for use.
• To ensure you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend you download the EF Go Ahead Tours mobile app. The app is free and provides important deadlines, entry requirements, your detailed itinerary, packing tips and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the chat feature in the app.
• Wifi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wifi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Your Tour Director will be leading your group throughout your journey. You will have the same Tour Director throughout your tour.
• The role of the Tour Director is not only to provide information and context on the destinations you visit, but also to confirm services, coordinate inclusions, prepare each days’ activities and support travelers while on tour. As such, they must focus on the success of the group, and cannot provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• One of the benefits of traveling with EF Go Ahead Tours is our on tour emergency support team.
• Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way.
• This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events.
• As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home.
• Switzerland, Germany, and Austria (and the Czech Republic on the extension) are 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and 6 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 6pm on tour.
• When you travel with Go Ahead Tours, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer.
• Travel, when done responsibly, can have an enormous socioeconomic impact on communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at small businesses. Ask your Tour Director to point out restaurants they recommend.
• Prepare for your trip: Be aware of monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market; learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette; and take some time to learn a few words in the local language.
• When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind.
• Go Ahead Tours encourages travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single-use plastics. You can cut back on generating plastic waste by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle.

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Overall rating based on 404 traveler reviews

Showing 1 - 6 of 404 traveler reviews

5 out of 5 stars

2nd-time traveler Jessica, traveled in Jul 2024

Christian was our tour guide and he was absolutely amazing. He made this tour for sure. This is one of the shorter tours EF offers but you get to see A LOT within a short period of time. Not a lot of down time but certainly a fun and informative tour. Highly recommend

2nd-time traveler Kevin, traveled in Jul 2024

Great tour, highly recommended. Laura was a fantastic tour guide.

1st-time traveler Sally, traveled in Jul 2024

Traveling with EF Tours was seamless. Our tour director, Angelica, made the trip wonderful. She was so knowledgeable about each country and engaging at all times. We didn’t know anyone on the tour before it began but everyone was easy to travel with and delightful to get to... Read more of Couldn’t Have Been Better

2nd-time traveler Shreya, traveled in Jul 2024

Everything went so smoothly and we learned so much! Our group was so kind and our tour director Frank was amazing!! Thank you EF tours our family had so much fun!

1st-time traveler Melissa, traveled in Jun 2024

This was a wonderful vacation. There was a great mix of scheduled events and free time. Our tour director and bus driver were lovely. The breakfasts and hotels were amazing. The group dinners were not the best but provided time for bonding with the diverse travelers.

1st-time traveler Rita, traveled in Jun 2024

My friend and I had a fantastic time. Seeing all the different countries was amazing. Our tour director was awesome and kept us going and our bus driver was the best.

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Switzerland and Austria

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13-Day Tour to Zurich, Salzburg, Vienna, Innsbruck and Zermatt

13 days, 4 countries and 14 cities

Accommodation

12 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners

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One of our most popular trips going to Austria and Switzerland, this incredible duo also delivers a visit to the little Liechtenstein capital. The Alps take center stage on this journey, but you’ll also learn about life as a Carinthian nun when you join them for dinner in a former castle.

Looking to book in a group of 9 or more?

Deals, savings and exclusive private touring options available plus if you need a different date or itinerary change we can create a custom trip. Contact us for more details

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This tour starts and ends in Zurich, and operates in 2024

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13 days itinerary trip from Zürich to Zürich visiting 4 countries and 14 cities Choose your itinerary and travel year

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Salzburg and Vienna with a Local Specialist

Discover Liechtenstein, Zürich, Innsbruck and Lucerne

Visit Vaduz, St. Moritz, Stresa, Graz, Lipizzaner Stud farm in Piber and Zermatt

View the Golden Roof and Hofburg Palace in Innsbruck, the Matterhorn and Jungfrau mountains (weather permitting), Chillon Castle, Bern and the Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument in Lucerne

See The Wachau Valley

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

Frequently asked questions

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What is a definite departure?

A departure is shown as 'Definite Departure' once it has reached a minimum number of guests. That particular departure will definitely run, barring any extraordinary circumstances. We update these regularly, and you can book any departure. While it is highly unlikely a departure doesn't meet the minimum number of guests, you will be offered the best alternative dates or a full refund of any payment made if this is the case. If there are ever any changes to your departure, we will contact you.

How can I book flights for my tour? What about extra hotel nights?

You can add flights and extra hotel nights directly through Trafalgar, so that everything is taken care of, leaving you to relax and enjoy your tour. If you're booking online, once you've selected your travel dates and room type, you'll be offered an option to add extra hotel nights and flights. Alternatively, you can call us to book and one of our travel experts can advise on your options.

How much is the deposit for a Trafalgar tour?

On most of our departures, you can secure your trip today with a low deposit from just $200.

What are the different kinds of experiences available?

Each Trafalgar tour has a carefully-selected range of included experiences to help immerse yourself in a destination. But did you know that every tour also has a Be My Guest and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience? Be My Guest Experiences are the original local travel experience, letting you step into the lives of hosts who will share stories about their families and communities. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences are conscious travel experiences that give back to the local communities, which support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Our tours also include a selection of Optional Experiences which are available for an additional cost, allowing you to make your trip your own.

Can I join a Trafalgar tour as a solo traveller?

A guided tour is the perfect way to solo travel. You'll meet like-minded people traveling with Trafalgar, and you'll relax knowing you can travel with ease, forming genuine connections as you go. To find out more solo room types and pricing select your preferred departure date and continue to the next page.

Where can I find room options?

Once you've selected your preferred departure date, on the next step add the number of guests to review the available room options and find the one that suits you best.

How can I apply my past guest discount?

It's great to have you back on board - the loyalty of our guests means everything to us. To access your Global Tour Rewards discount, please confirm the name and date of your past trip once you've added your passenger details. The discount will be applied before you book.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Germany, Austria & Switzerland Tours & Group Tour Packages 2024, 2025

Click on the tabs for more information, price per person double occupancy.

Price Includes: Very nice 3 1/2 and moderate 4 star hotels, breakfast daily, 10 dinners, modern transportation, sightseeing as listed.

Not Included: Airfare, fuel charges, air taxes, travel/cancellation insurance, lunches, gratuities to driver and guides.

Deposit Required: $300 per person will reserve your place. A $100 service fee will be charged for cancellation at any time in addition to our normal payment and cancellation policy.

Day 1: Departure

Enjoy your overnight flight to Zurich with dinner en route.

Day 2: Arrive Zurich, River Cruise

This morning we arrive in Zurich and are transferred by motorcoach to our hotel. We have free time to get settled, freshen up and explore the area before enjoying a river cruise and delightful dinner. Overnight in Zurich.

Day 3: Berne, Interlaken

Berne, Switzerland's capital, is a wonderfully preserved Medieval town and one of the earliest cantons to embrace the Protestant Reformation due mainly to the influence of Zwingli. Sightseeing with a local expert starts at the popular BEAR PIT and then focuses on the monumental Federal Palace and the beautifully preserved medieval Old Town. Witness the hourly parade of painted figures at the Clock Tower and take your pictures of ornate, flower-adorned fountains. Next, we travel to Interlaken, check into our hotel and have some free time before dinner. We overnight two nights in Interlaken.

Day 4: Alpine Vistas

Today we will have a full day to explore the Lauterbrunnen Valley, regarded as one of the most spectacular glacial valleys in Europe. It lies surrounded by the un-spoilt natural beauty of the magnifi-cent Swiss Alps. In the afternoon we’ll ride the funicular railway to the picturesque resort of Murren. This is a car-free village perched atop a cliff, surrounded by the unbelievable panorama of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau peaks. We will also enjoy a gondola ride to the famous Schiltorn Restaurant before returning to our hotel for the evening.

Day 5: Delightful Lucerne, Liechtenstien

Today we visit Lucerne for some free time today. Lucerne boasts invigorating mountain and lake views, a picturesque old quarter and famous covered bridge, making it one of Europe’s most visited and popular towns. The River Reuss splits the town, flowing rapidly out of the northwestern end of the lake. River banks on both sides are clustered with medieval squares, frescoed houses, ancient guildhalls, churches and chapels. From here we turn toward to the Kingdom of Liechtenstien for our dinner and overnight.

Day 6: Charming Village of Ischgl, Innsbruck

Austria is our destination today with our first stop at the Alpine Village of Ischgl. Then we travel to Innsbruck for lunch and our hotel. Innsbruck is nestled in a narrow valley right below lofty mountain peaks, with streets lined by historic churches and buildings. Overnight in Innsbruck.

Day 7: Austria’s Highest Peak, Salzburg

This morning we head east to visit Austria's highest peak, the Gross-glockner, where we will have an amazing lunch. Nearby, we visit the picturesque high Alpine village of Heiligenblut (which means "holy blood") before continuing on to Salzburg. Overnight in Salzburg for the next two nights.

Day 8: Musical Salzburg

Today, we will have much to see and do in Salzburg. A guide joins us sharing history and beautiful scenery as we visit the Gardens, the Fortress, the Mozart place of birth, shops and many other wonderful sights. This evening’s dinner will include Austrian Folk Dancing.

Day 9: Neuschwanstein & Linderhof Castles

In the lovely Bavarian region of Germany we find two of the Castles of Mad King Ludwig. First, we will travel to Neuschwanstein Castle for a full tour. Next we visit the King's Linderhof Castle, then to the colorful village of Garmisch-Partenkirchen with free time to stroll through the shops and relax at your hotel. Overnight in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Day 10: Historic Rothenburg, Stuttgart

A walking guided tour of the walled city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber begins our day before free time and lunch with your Tour Director. Then, we visit the big city, Stuttgart and the Mercedes Museum. Overnight in Stuttgart.

Day 11: Zurich

Today we return to Zurich and pick up our local guide who will help us enjoy spectacular views of the Alps from vistas of the ancient yet modern city. Zurich is the commercial capital of Switzerland (Berne being the seat of government). Our guided city tour will show you the commercial center, a section of the Old Town, Fraumuenster Church with its famous Chagall windows, historical Limmatquai and the university district. Drive along the Hoehenstrasse which offers spectacular views into the Alps. We will see the Weinplatz, or Corn Exchange, the oldest market square, Old City Hall and the Old City Hall Bridge. Along the way, you will be captivated by the narrow cobblestone streets, medieval houses and famous quays. Zurich is uniquely situated along the beautiful Lake Zurich which is rimmed by a 3 kilometer long promenade. We will see here the many lakeside gardens where Zurichers congregate at lunch time! Tonight we will enjoy a farewell dinner together. Overnight in Zurich.oying a farewell dinner together. Overnight in Zurich.

Day 12: Home

This morning we transfer to the airport for our flight back home.

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Germany Austria Switzerland Itinerary: 10 Days on the Road

You’ve decided on your Europe trip and you’re now wondering how to plan it. I can help with that!

I lived in Southern Germany (Stuttgart) for six years and traveled to Switzerland and Austria more times than I can count. Since it was just a few hours away, we went for festivals, ski trips, summer hiking, and exploring beautiful villages and cities.

While I don’t recommend trying to cram as much as possible into one trip, I think it’s very doable to visit these three countries within 10 days. 

I’m sharing what I think is the best 10-day Germany, Austria & Switzerland itinerary that’ll show you how to make the most out of your time.

With this itinerary, you will stay within certain regions of each country so you’re not on the road the entire time. 

You’ll have a mix of scenery, busy days, tours, and downtime. The goal is to divide your time over as many activities and places as possible without rushing through them.

Overall, you’ll be splitting your time nearly evenly in each country.

Keep reading for all the details about this itinerary. Every detail has been thought out for the most memorable trip you can have!

Why Combine Germany, Austria, and Switzerland on the Same Trip?

We all know Europe is full of amazing countries with wonderful spots for traveling, so why does this trip include Germany, Austria, and Switzerland instead of someplace else like Italy, Spain, or France? And why only these 3 countries?

Well, this combination has logical, geographical, and experience-related motives.

They’re Close

First, it simply makes sense to combine Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. These 3 countries are very close to one another – they literally share borders.

If you check a map of central Europe, you’ll see that Germany borders both Switzerland and Austria from the south, whereas Austria is to the east of Switzerland.

They Have the Same Language

Another reason why it’s a good idea to combine Germany, Austria, and Switzerland into one trip is the common language. 

All 3 of these countries speak German. It’s one of the 4 official languages of Switzerland and the sole official one in Austria.

If you don’t speak German, this combination means you can learn some basic phrases in German and use them for all the places you’ll visit.

This isn’t an obligation since you can get by just fine with English, but showing you know a few phrases goes over well with locals. 

They’re Versatile and Have a Lot to Offer

Last but not least, combining Germany, Austria, and Switzerland gives you a rich experience with a wide range of activities to satisfy different interests.

These countries have natural landscapes with lakes, waterfalls, rivers, mountains, and more. They have historical sites, museums, art, architecture, adventures like hiking or paragliding, and cuisine among many other cultural aspects.

This means you’re guaranteed to enjoy your visit no matter what you’re looking to do.

Are 10 Days Enough for Visiting Germany, Austria, and Switzerland?

The answer to this heavily depends on your travel style and what you’re looking to accomplish with the trip.

If you’re a home base type of traveler who likes to deeply explore a single location at a time, 10 days likely won’t be enough for you to thoroughly cover even 1 of the countries.

If you’re a go-go-go traveler who aims to see as much as possible of the places they go, then 10 days are probably enough to see a lot of the 3 countries since they’re quite close to one another. However, this approach isn’t the most comfortable or rewarding in my opinion.

If you prefer a balanced approach, then I believe 10 days will be enough for you to experience and enjoy a bit of each country to a pretty satisfying level. This travel style is what I’ve gone for with this itinerary.

How to Get Around During a Germany, Austria, and Switzerland Trip?

Making your way around Germany, Austria, and Switzerland (or Europe in general) is basically a choice between 2 means of transportation: car or train.

Each option has its pros and cons, so I’ll highlight them in this section to help you choose what works best for you.

Taking a Car

This itinerary was created for a car, but you can just as easily take a train too.

The upside of getting around with a car is that you don’t need to worry about sticking to a departure schedule. You can set off according to your own time and you’ll never miss your ride.

A car can also be the faster method to reach some places since you can take shortcuts and don’t have to make stops along the way. Not to mention, taking a car allows you to go on side trips and make detours.

That said, taking a car in Europe can be more expensive than taking a train. Not only because of the rental cost but also the gas and road tax.

• Vignette : Austria and Switzerland both require a vignette, which is a sticker you purchase at a gas station or store to go on your windshield. In Austria, you’ll spend less than 20EUR, but the Swiss vignette runs about 40-45USD (depending on the exchange rate).
• Gas : Gas in Europe is much more expensive than in the US, about 3-4 times the cost.
• Car Rental : Compared to places like the US, a rental car will be considerably cheaper in Europe. Typically you can find a small to midsize sedan for $30-50/day. I always book through Discover Cars , an aggregate company that helps you find the best prices (often lower than through the company directly). They also have fantastic customer service, which can be hard to find in the rental car industry.

Driving in Europe can sound daunting, but these three countries are fairly easy to navigate. The roads are well-maintained and drivers follow the rules of the road. There are plenty of well-marked signs and it’s likely that your rental will have GPS included. 

Taking a Train

While in Europe, trains are a great way to get around. They’re fast, clean, and efficient (especially in these countries!). And train stations are in the center of towns or cities, so once you disembark you’re not too far from your hotel.

They’re also pretty affordable, so you can save much of your budget for the actual visit. Also, you’ll be relieving yourself from the hassle of driving in a new/foreign country.

The downside to trains, however, is having to plan your time around their schedule. Besides the lack of flexibility, you’re also likely to take a longer time to get to your destination by train vs by car.

Some of these trips require multiple connections, so you’ll need to pay attention as well.

Additionally, some places are tricky to reach by train. You’ll get off at the nearest point but have to figure out how to make it to the specific spot you want to visit.

There are many different ways to book train tickets in Europe which deserves its own post. I priced out this trip in May via RailEurope and it is $324 per person (I’m looking about 9 months out). With the Eurail Pass, it’s $292 (but you still need to pay a few euros to reserve seats).

The Eurail Pass is more flexible (i.e. you can change train times if there are open seats) which can be more appealing. Please note the train from Salzburg to Berchtesgaden cannot be booked via Eurail.

Booking your train tickets early is key to finding low prices. If you wait until the last minute, you could end up spending a lot more on your tickets.

Children under 15 travel free via train.

TRIP OVERVIEW & MAP 10 DAYS SWITZERLAND | AUSTRIA | GERMANY ITINERARY

DAY 1: Arrive in Zurich & Head to Lucerne DAY 2: Lucerne to Interlaken/Lauterbrunnen DAY 3: Grindelwald & Junfraujoch DAY 4: Travel to Innsbruck & Overnight DAY 5: Travel to Salzburg & Explore DAY 6: Berchtesgaden | Königsee | Eagle’s Nest DAY 7: Salzburg Day Trip DAY 8: Travel to Munich & Explore DAY 9: Neuschwanstein Day Trip DAY 10: Fly Home

Click on map below to see full map in Google Maps.

Germany Austria Switzerland 10-Day Itinerary

Day 1: arrival in zurich & head to lucerne.

• Distance by car: 52.5km (32 miles)
• By Train: 40-60 minutes, no connections
• Country: Switzerland
• Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)

Your 10-day trip to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland will start with your landing in Zurich, Switzerland’s capital

Assuming you arrive early in the morning, you’ll have 3 full days to explore Switzerland. 

With this itinerary, I didn’t plan a day in Zurich because it’s a massive business city and one of the most expensive in the world. The town of Lucerne is much more quintessential Switzerland and a much cuter town.

If you would like to get a taste of the city, however, I recommend heading to the old town (Altstadt) and exploring for a few hours before heading to Lucerne. It’s only 6 miles from the airport to the city center and easily accessed via train or car. 

Lucerne is only about 45 minutes from Zurich, so you could spend most of your day in Zurich and then make your way to Lucerne for the evening.

If you decide to head straight to Lucerne (which I highly suggest), here’s how to spend your day.

Grab a bite before on your way to Lucerne or have breakfast when you get there. Some of my favorite places to fill up on breakfast or lunch are Richemont Gastronomioe , Mill’Feuille , and Antons Restaurant .

After food, you’ll start exploring the old and new towns. You can walk around on your own or join a walking tour such as the one to Chapel Bridge and Old Town or one with a local via LocalBini. 

While exploring the old town, don’t miss the sight of the iconic Lion Monument. It dates back to the 1820s and pays tribute to the Swiss Guards who were murdered during the French Revolution.

You can also wander along the lake or catch a boat ride over it with a 1-hour cruise .

If you’re into museum visits, here are some great options such as the Richard Wagner Museum, Sammlung Rosengart Museum, Swiss Museum of Transportation, or Chocolate Adventure Pavilion.

Don’t forget to snap some pictures at the Chapel Bridge. It’s a covered wooden footbridge that crosses the river Reuss. It contains various interior paintings dating back to the 1600s and features a unique flower pot decor along its guard rails.

When dinner time rolls in, be sure to try the country’s world-famous dishes such as fondue, raclette, Älplermagronen, and Rösti. Among my top restaurants for Swiss cuisine are Restaurant Balances , Hermitage , and Gasthaus Schlüssel .

Hotel Recommendations

Most hotels are located in the Old Town, so head over to Waldstatterhof Swiss Quality Hotel or Ibis Styles Luzern for the night whenever you’re ready.

Day 2: Exploring Lauterbrunnen & Interlaken

• Distance by car: 67.6km (42 miles)
• By Train: 2.5-3.5hrs (1+ connections)

Start the day with breakfast at your hotel or at one of the restaurants I mentioned above. Then, you’ll leave from Lucerne to Lauterbrunnen. 

Lauterbrunnen looks like something out of a storybook. Here you’ll see mountains jutting out of the ground and 72 waterfalls all over the mountain valley.

These mountains are sheer rock faces overlooking a wide valley. It was formed by glaciers over millions of years. You’ll often spot base jumpers and other extreme sports enthusiasts enjoying nature’s playground. 

Interlaken is a beautiful little town between the green glacial lakes of Thunersee and Brienzersee (‘see’ means lake). It’s about a 20-minute drive from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen, and you can stay at either location for beautiful views (although Lauterbrunnen sits right in the valley).

Tip: This area has many cable cars going up mountains, boat rides on the lakes, funiculars, and trains to the tops of mountains. There are a lot of ways to see this area! If you want to dig in and explore, I recommend purchasing the Jungfrau Travel Pass . It covers nearly everything with a few exceptions that you can read about here .

Here are my top recommendations for a day in Lauterbrunnen:

WALK THROUGH THE BEAUTIFUL VALLEY FLOOR

Make your way into the valley and park at Lauterbrunnen. From here, walk one of the many trails throughout the valley. You could go on for miles or take a quick stroll. 

If you want to really see all the highlights, though, book this guided tour from Interlaken . You’ll see the best waterfalls in the area and learn about the history of this beautiful valley. This is a great option especially if you don’t have a car.

GO PARAGLIDING IN INTERLAKEN

Paragliding in Interlaken was my absolute favorite activity the last time we visited the area. We went nearly 10 years ago and we still talk about it today. It was a highlight for sure! Because you just drove in today, I recommend doing this early the next morning so you can really explore the valley. I booked with this tour company and loved them. 

VISIT TRÜMMELBACH FALLS

Trümmelbach is the only glacier waterfall in the world that can be accessed underground. These are Europe’s largest subterranean waterfalls and are impressive to see in person.

There are three glaciers feeding meltwater through here to create these falls. And it’s a lot of water! At 20,000 liters per second, you can imagine how powerful and mighty these falls are. 

HIKE ONE OF THE WATERFALL TRAILS

There are tons of hiking opportunities throughout the massive valley. And some lead to villages such as Murren or Wengen.

Some hotels I’d recommend for your stay are Chalet Rosa B&B and Hotel Oberland .

If you don’t wish to stay in Lauterbrunnen, there are so many options in this area. One time we stayed at this small hotel in Le issigen, a small town above Lake Thun (Thunersee). I liked it here because it’s so quiet and you stay at a traditional Swiss mountain home that’s been converted into a hotel.

Day 3: Exploring Grindelwald and Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe)

• Distance by car: 20.3km (12 miles) to Grindelwald. Train required after Grindelwald.
• By Train: 43 minutes to Grindelwald. Then train to Jungfraujoch.

Today you’ll head to Grindelwald and then to Jungfraujoch, called the Top of Europe. This trip takes a bit of time so I recommend starting early. To reach Jungfraujoch, you need to take a train from Grindelwald.

Grindelwald is a small Swiss village in the beautiful Swiss Alps. It’s also a great launching point for Jungfraujoch, a massive mountain at 11,000ft and the tallest in Europe! 

GO TO THE TOP OF JUNGFRAUJOCH

From Grindelwald, you can take the Eiger Express train to the top and back (be sure to book these tickets ahead of time). When you book, you can select how long you wish to stay at the top. There’s plenty to do, including seeing the longest glacier in Europe, taking in the sweeping views, and exploring an underground ice palace with ice sculptures.

I recommend going up Jungfraujoch in the morning so you can spend your afternoon at Grindelwald, but it’s really up to you how you want to plan your day. I prefer to not feel like I’m waiting around to board a train, so I prefer to do those activities in the morning and then be free to explore the rest of the day.

EXPLORE GRINDELWALD

Grindelwald itself has tons to do. Since you’re short on time, I recommend walking the town and grabbing a bite to eat.

For something more adventurous, there’s plenty to do! Soar like an eagle on a fast-moving glider , walk on the cliff walk overlooking the mountains below, or drive a mountain cart , among other things. Note that some of these things require a gondola or cable car ride.

If you prefer to keep your feet planted, go on one of the many hikes in the region such as the Kleine Scheidegg .

At the end of the day make your way back to Interlaken or Lauterbrunnen for your last night in Switzerland.

Day 4: Explore Innsbruck

• Distance by car: 380km (236 miles)
• By Train: 6-7 hours with 3+ connections
• Country: Austria
• Currency: Euro

The following morning you’ll travel from Interlaken to Innsbruck, a cute college town in the mountains of Austria.

This town makes for a great stopping point between Switzerland and Salzburg. 

If you went straight through, the drive would take about 7 hours (assuming there’s zero traffic and you don’t stop), and even longer via train. So I recommend a stopover night in this beautiful and historic town to break up your trip.

I also like this drive because you go through some spectacular mountain scenery, and even cross through the small country of Liechtenstein (look out for the black license plates!).

If you prefer something a bit quieter, I recommend looking into the Achensee, a pretty Alpine lake about 55km (34 miles) from Innsbruck.

If you’re driving, don’t forget to get a Vignette sticker before you cross the border to Austria. It‘ll cost you around 10 EUR, and if you don’t buy one you could get a huge fine of over 100EUR. Vignettes are available at all gas stations.

Since the drive will fill a good portion of your day, here is how I recommend spending your afternoon/evening:

• Walk the cute old town (Altstadt) and check out some of the shops, cafes, and restaurants.
• Visit OlympiaWorld and learn about the 1976 Olympics.
• Climb the town tower for beautiful views.

Each time we’ve been to Innsbruck, we’ve stayed at these beautifully maintained apartments just up the hill from the old town. There are hiking trails from the apartment and a lovely farm-to-table restaurant on the mountainside called Gasthaus Planötzenhof Andreas Heis . If you like pretty views with your meal, then I recommend this place!

Day 5: Explore Salzburg

• Distance by car: 166km (103 miles)
• By Train: 2 hours, no connections

Today you will make your way to Salzburg, just a few hours from Innsbruck. As you’re likely tired from all this travel, you’ll get a chance to relax and enjoy a few nights in the Salzburg area.

Expect more scenic views and an easy drive. If you’re driving, there are three routes to get there, and you can’t go wrong with any of them.

When you arrive at Salzburg (aka the City of Mozart ), you’ll probably be ready to explore.

Make your way to the Old Town (Altstadt). It’s a small but packed old town filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, and cathedrals. 

A must-see spot is Mozart’s birthplace at the intersection of Hagenauerplatz Square and Getreidegasse Street.

There are various walking tours, but you can easily walk yourself. If you want to learn about the history of the area, I recommend this 2.5-hour tour that starts at Palace Mirabell and takes you through the Makartplatz, New & Old Town, Mozart’s Birthplace and ends at the top of Mönchsberg Hill (optional). 

You’ll also see River/Mozartsteg, Toscanini Hof, St. Peter’s Cemetery/Church, Alter Markt, Mirabell Gardens, Kapitelplatz, and many more places.

There are also food tours where you can see the city while experiencing Austrian cuisine. I recommend this one for food tasting or this one for beer tasting in Old Town

It’s hard to miss the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress perched above the Altstadt. To get there, you can either walk the switchback path to it or take the funicular for about 5EUR (ascent and descent, admission included).

Once at the top, get ready to be blown away by the 360 views. Explore the medieval interior of Europe’s largest intact medieval castle. You can see the Salzburg Bull, the Archbishop Chapel, Golden Hall, and Golden Chamber.

Don’t go back down too soon. You can take the Monchsberg road to reach Augustiner bräu – Kloster Mülln, Austria’s largest beer tavern. For a delicious meal, try the Gasthaus Burgschenke .

My top recommendation for dinner is the Mozart Dinner Concert at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium in the old town. It’s the oldest restaurant in Central Europe.

Call it a night at Altstadt Hotel Hofwirt Salzburg or MEININGER Hotel Salzburg City Center .

Day 6: Explore Salzburg/Berchtesgaden

• Distance by car: 34.6km (21 miles)
• By Train: 1 hour with 1 connection
• Country: Germany & Austria

Since Berchtesgaden is a short distance from Salzburg, we’ll keep our base in the city and do a day trip from here.

Today you’ll go on a day trip to Berchtesgaden, a national park with the looming Eagle’s Nest. There are a few options for your day, depending on your interests:

TAKE A BOAT RIDE AT KÖNIGSEE

The Koenigsee is a beautiful large lake in the southern German Alps. There’s a popular boat ride that takes you along the lake to St. Bartholomew’s Church. They even have a trumpet player that shows you how well this mountain valley can echo! Once at the church, you have time for lunch and a drink before heading back. It’s a beautiful way to spend the day. 

VISIT THE EAGLE’S NEST

Alternative to Lake Königsee, you can visit Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest at the top of Mount Kehlstein and the Documentation Museum. You can take a guided tour from Salzburg or a bus directly from Salzburg to the documentation center.

You can also drive yourself as well.

Once you’re done exploring, head back and recharge for the next day.

Day 7: Explore Around Salzburg: Hallstatt | Sound of Music Tour 

• Distance by car: Varies
• By Train: Bus only

In and around Salzburg, there are many day trips and activities that you can enjoy early in the morning. Here are some of my recommendations.

• Sound of Music Tour : you’ll visit locations used in the movies, hear songs, take photos, and enjoy the countryside.
• Day Trip to Hallstatt : hike up the Salzberg mountain and enjoy the view of the sunrise from the Skywalk (with a photographer)
• Bike Tour Around Salzburg : about 3.5 hours through the city and countryside.

Hallstatt has become really popular in the past few years, but there are many other lakes in the area. Surrounding Salzburg, there are a total of nine lakes in this region.

Mondsee is a good option for a cute town on a pretty lake (but you won’t have the same striking town as Hallstatt). This lake is also on the Sound of Music tour as well. Attersee is the largest in the region and the most striking with mountains in the background.

Alternative Option: If you’re excited to get to Munich, you could alternatively head there today to have an extra day to explore.

Day 8: Explore Munich

• Distance by car: 147km (91 miles)
• Country: Germany

Today you’ll make your way to Munich, the beautiful capital of Bavaria and home to BMW.

Although it’s a large city, the central area is quite walkable and easy to navigate.

There is also a robust train system. The trains within cities in Germany are called ‘U-Bahn’, so look for those signs when walking around. Tickets can be purchased at the kiosks directly at the stations, or you can use their app to book your tickets.

EXPLORE MARIENPLATZ

Once you arrive and get settled, head to the center of town, Marienplatz. This has been Munich’s center square since 1158. I recommend walking around the area and exploring the shops and one of the many breweries. 

You’ll see the New and Old Rathaus (town hall), St. Peter’s Church, and the Marian Column among many others. Interestingly, this place was rebuilt in the traditional style years after its demolition at the end of WWII, so it may not be physically old, but it looks the part.

CLIMB ST PETER’S TOWER & GLOCKENSPIEL SHOW

From there, make your way to St. Peter’s Tower (best to arrive about 30 minutes before 11 or 12 to make the climb before the show starts). Go up to the observation point for a spectacular bird’s eye view of the Platz and a chance to catch the Glockenspiel show away from the crowds.

The Glockenspiel show is a 15-minute spectacle that reenacts bits of the city’s history. It takes place at 11 and 12 daily, ending with 3 chirps from a golden rooster at the top of the square’s mechanical clock.

TAKE A WALKING TOUR

If you’re into walking tours, there are many free options that start right at Marienplatz.

For something a bit more in-depth, I recommend this 1.5-hour tour of the inner city. It starts at the Marienplatz, showing you the highlights, and then heads to the Frauenkirche church, the Royal Brewery, as well as the cathedral and Theatine Church. The tour ends at the Viktualienmarkt.

When it’s time for lunch, the daily food market (Viktualienmarkt) is a fantastic option. It’s about 4 minutes from the city center. Alternatively, you can go to a beer garden for a meal and a drink.

After eating and depending on how late it is, you can explore Munich’s iconic cathedral; the Frauenkirche, the Nymphenburg Palace, or the English Garden.

WALK THE ENGLISH GARDEN

The English Garden (Englisch Garten) is a massive public park in the center of Munich. It’s even larger than Central Park.

Inside there is a huge network of trails that can keep you busy for days. If you prefer a guide to show you around, there are some great tours like this one (via GetYo urGuide) that take you through Marienplatz and the English Garden.

The English Garden is close to Marienplatz, so you can simply head here once you’re done exploring the Marienplatz area.

Here are my top 3 things to do:

• Watch people surf at the Eisbachwelle . This is located at the very south end of the English Garden next to a road. But stopping here is worth it! I thought it was so fun to watch people surfing in the center of a huge city. If you are heading to the English Garden from Marienplatz, you can stop here first.
• Visit the Chinese Tower (Chinesischer Turm) . The Chinese Tower was built as an observation tower. Sadly it was destroyed in WWII, but has been rebuilt in its former style. The second largest beer garden is here, and it’s a great place to grab a beer and have something to eat. It’s about a 15-20 minute walk (less than a mile) from the surfing area.
• Stroll Around and Explore . Aside from the beer garden (biergarten) at the Chinese Tower, there are many other biergartens and restaurants inside the park. There’s also a Japanese Tea House, areas to relax in the grass, ponds, and even a sheep farm.

DINNER AT A BREWERY

Wrap up the day at the Hofbrauhaus restaurant near Marienplatz (a 5-minute walk) for a taste of German cuisine, beer, and atmosphere. The Augustiner restaurant is also a great choice (a 20-minute walk from Marienplatz) with its delicious beer, schnitzel, and maultaschen.

For accommodation, I recommend the Arthotel Munich or Bento Inn Munich Messe .

Day 9: Explore Neuschwanstein Castle

• Distance by car: 109km (67 miles)
• By Train: 3+ hours each way with bus connections (I recommend a tour instead, see below)

Today you’ll be going on a day trip to Füssen, south of Munich.

If you have time, start with a hefty white sausage breakfast – classic Bavaria style. It’s called Weißwurst in Germany, and you can have a tasty one at Schneider Brauhaus, Airbraeu Brauhaus, or Hofbraeukeller.

Füssen is the town that sits at the base of Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany’s most famous castle. It’s the inspiration behind Disney’s castle in Sleeping Beauty.

The fastest way to get to the castle from Munich is by car, and there’s also the option to take the train (which requires many connections).

Or, you can book an inexpensive day tour like this one and have everything done for you. This is my personal recommendation to avoid parking, purchasing tickets, and a lot of waiting.

I recommend booking your tour ahead of time as the line can get really long quickly.

There are actually a few castles in this area. The tour of Neuschwanstein is a bit anti-climactic, so if you don’t want to wait in line for tickets, you can simply walk up to the castle and explore the courtyard.

The Marienbrücke Bridge is where you can get the famous photo (see above) of the castle. It’s free and is a short walk to the right.

Please keep in mind the bridge site is high above a gorge and can get absolutely packed with people. The boards you walk on are not well secured either, so take caution if you decide to walk across it. From here you can continue a bit further up for even better views (note it is steep).

The only way to avoid the crowds is to arrive early.

If you’re into a mesmerizing, adrenaline-packed activity, don’t miss out on paragliding in the Alps (over the castle too!). F ly Royal is a fantastic team to book this activity with; you’ll take off from Tegelberg Mountain and the duration of the flight depends on the package you choose.

Alternatively, you can stay on the ground and explore the lake, take a bus or train ride through the castle’s surroundings, go to vantage points, and discover the tale of King Ludwig, it’s all in this tour .

Once you’re done exploring the castle and area, you’ll head back to Munich. That’s your chance to get your fill of Bavarian beer and cuisine at Steinheil 16, Schiller Brau, and Servus Heidi.

Day 10: Munich/Departure

The last day is all about wrapping up your time in Munich and making your way to the airport to fly back home. If you have time, you can do some last-day shopping at Maximilianstrasse.

If you’re flying from Munich Airport, it’ll take you about 30 minutes by car and around 1 hour by train from the center of Munich. 

If you’re departing from Zurich Airport (only because you booked a two-way ticket), a car drive will take you there in about 3 to 4 hours while a train will do it in 5 to 6 hours. Be sure to factor in construction or train delays so you don’t miss your flight.

Things to Keep In Mind When Traveling to Germany, Austria & Switzerland

Here are a few pointers to keep in mind during your Germany, Austria & Switzerland trip:

• All 3 countries speak German, so you only need to learn common phrases in that one language. That saves you a lot of time and hassle, although English will get you by just fine.
• All 3 countries are included in the Schengen visa agreement.
• Germany and Austria use the Euro, but Switzerland uses the Swiss franc.
• Scheduling your trip during the shoulder season (March through April and September through November) should get you lower rates and fewer crowds.
• While getting around by train is more affordable and less confusing, it typically takes longer and may not reach all locations.
• Getting around by car is more costly and forces you to worry about direction/parking, it offers more flexibility and usually takes less time.

Final Thoughts

That brings us to the end of a full-packed 10-day Germany, Austria & Switzerland itinerary for an unforgettable trip. The only thing left for you to do is actually get the show on the road!

I'm Brea, an Alaskan with a serious case of wanderlust. Join me as I share insider information and firsthand accounts to help with your travels. Find destination guides, itineraries, general travel tips, learn how to take better photos, and more! Follow me on Instagram for all my up-to-date travels @travelingigloo

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This was a great planning document. What would you recommend if one member required a mobility device such as a scooter etc. is this a trip that would be friendly to such an individual?

Hi Mike, I think much of it is possible with a scooter, but with limitations. Lucerne’s old town has many stairs to navigate around the old town, but there is a good stretch of it that’s mostly flat. Many of the active activities (hiking, paragliding, etc) will need to be altered, depending on the mobility. Innsbruck and Salzburg have many flat areas but there are likely some stairs in the old town to navigate. Munich’s Old Town should be navigable with a scooter, and you can do the Englisch Garten. If you’re planning a self-guided trip, I would look at tour options to get around (bus, train, tram, etc) to see some of these places. Many cities and towns also have hop-on, hop-off bus tours so you can see the city without walking everywhere. Be sure to book a tour with transport to Neuschwanstein. There will be many more logistics to consider for this type of trip, but it’s absolutely possible. If you can drive, or if there’s someone that can rent a car and drive directly to these locations, that would be better than a train station. Please note that I’m not an expert in this area so you’ll want to do your own research and planning to accommodate any mobility devices.

Thank you for the information. Do you have any suggestions for incorporating a couple days of skiing?

Hi Jules, if you can add a few days, there are many great skiing options. We skied (snowboarded) Sölden and really liked it. It’s a big mountain with lots of options. Kitzbuhel is also a good option and closer to Innsbruck. Grindelwald-Wengen is also a great option. But honestly, there are hundreds to choose from. Our absolute favorite was Saalbach-Hinterglemm. I have an older article about it here: https://www.travelingigloo.com/snowboarding-winter-saalbach-hinterglemm-austria/

I would look at when you plan on going then do a little research on the snow reports and the mountains with the most reliable snow, then make your decision based on that. I was surprised that many mountains didn’t have snow until January or later. Also keep in mind that Switzerland will be considerably more expensive than Austria. I love skiing in the Alps (more than Alaska), it’s so much fun.

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Comfortable Classics: A Two-Week Tour of Germany, Switzerland & Austria

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Countries Visited

Places visited, suggested duration, customizable itinerary, trier – arrive in germany’s oldest city and enjoy an introductory tour.

Trier is Germany’s oldest town, with its first inhabitants settling in the region approximately 16,000 years ago. Your flight will descend into Trier-Fohren Airport, and you see the expanse of lush grass and sporadic verdant trees across the landscape. Your private transfer will meet you at baggage claim and escort you into the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes Roman monuments, thermal baths, and the oldest bishop’s church and Gothic church in the country. The city center is reserved for pedestrians, which allows you to stroll along the Baroque and Gothic buildings at your leisure.

On the outskirts of town, wineries tier the hills and stretch along the flatlands. The Porta Nigra, a 2nd-century fortified Roman city gate, continues to frame the north entrance of Old Town. Time and the elements have blackened the outer layers of the gate, which brought on the name “Black Gate.” The weight of the stone, and sporadic iron clamps have held the structure together for nearly two millennia and the structure extends for 118 feet with a width of 70.5 feet and a height of 90 feet. To see the freestanding sandstone structure is the perfect introduction to your tour and allows the remaining history of the town to tell its own story.

What's Included:

Trier – Explore the Historical Streets of Trier and Grounds of Burg Eltz Castle

As morning rises, the student population adds a youthful ambiance to the old city streets. In the morning, students venture to a popular coffee shop said to have the best specialty coffee selection in town. The German cappuccino is famous for its large top layer of delectable foam and after breakfast, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and take you on an engaging walking tour of the Roman and medieval core, including the fortifications and Konstantin-Basilika.

Emperor Constantine resided in the city between 306 and 312 AD, and the brick structure contains a long, high ceiling that once acted as the throne hall before its destruction by Germanic tribes. In the 12th century, locals converted the apse into a tower. The edifice reaches a length of 220 feet with a nearly 100-foot tall semi-circular apse. The Basilica retains the title of the largest single-room structure surviving from the Roman Empire, and the windows and apse progressively shrink towards the middle of the room, giving the impression of length. Outside of the city, you will reach the fantastical structure of Eltz Castle, situated on a hilltop surrounded by the Eltz Forest. The 12th-century structure looks like a storybook home as it rises out of the trees and overlooks the Elzbach River.

Baden-Baden – Visit the Opulent Casino and Enjoy a Day at Leisure

In the morning, the half-timbered buildings of Hauptmarkt shine in the spreading sunlight as locals navigate the cobblestone streets in the city center on their way to work. After breakfast, you will wave goodbye to the charms of Trier for the alluring warmth of Baden-Baden. The mild climate and old hot springs have brought fame to the town as one of the most renowned spa towns in the world. The dense trees of the Black Forest frame the colonnaded buildings and turreted art-nouveau villas that pepper the hillsides.

Vibrant open-air cafes connect the town’s culture to the French spirit located across the border as the Oos River feeds the pristine gardens that flourish along the riverbanks. Your guide will lead you to the casino for a look at the architecture and the opulence of its décor. The hall was erected more than 250 years ago and modeled after the French royal palaces, and the ambiance of the elite remains in the golden chandeliers and plush red carpet.

The remainder of the day will be yours to stroll the streets of the city at your preferred pace to take in the beauty of the Spa Garden while surrounded by boutique stores and chic cafes.  You could also wander along the Lichtentaler Allee, a two-mile long avenue on the west bank of the Oos River with an old footpath built in the 17th century. Chestnut trees and magnolias line the walkway as the aroma of fresh oak bark drifts across the water. More than 400 different types of roses blossom at Gonneranlage and accentuate the Art Nouveau décor of the garden. When you feel like a rest, you can make your away to the Caracalla Spa, a modern therapy center that fills 43,055 square feet, fed by 12 natural springs, and features hot and cold rock grottos.

Murren – Tour Farmhouses and Mills in the Black Forest en route to Murren

The ruins of the Roman bathhouse have stood in Baden-Baden for more than 2,000 years. The ancient floor stands beneath the Friedrichsbad Spa and also contains a Roman wall more than six feet tall. After you leave Baden-Baden, venture next to the cliff-top town of Murren in the Swiss Alps. En route to Murren, you can travel through to the fabled Black Forest, home to stories like Hansel and Gretel. Farmhouses and mills speckle the landscape as the trees open to the riverbanks. Stop in Freiburg im Breisgau, considered the “Gateway to the Black Forest” as trees blanket the rolling hillside. Shauinsland Mountain, which reaches a height of 4,212 feet above sea level, borders the edge of town and provides a view of the small streams that flow around the streets of Old Town.

The Swabian Gate was constructed in the 13th century and features wall paintings and dioramas that depict the region’s history, many of which highlight the region’s freedom movement in the 19th century.  The Murren Mountains surround the Lauterbrunnen Valley, and at the base of the mountains, you can step aboard a gondola to absorb the scenery as you ride to the cliff-top. The narrow railroad stretches from Grutschalp to Murren and travels a length of four miles, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks and emerald plains. Waterfalls trundle down the rocky faces before you reach the center of the alpine village. Rustic chalets accentuate the 19th-century ambiance and provide a cozy, luxurious place for you to settle into.

Murren – Discover the Wonders of the Swiss Alps with a Trek around Murren

The aroma of hot chocolate in the morning air will remind you that you have arrived in Switzerland while the view of the soaring mountain peaks remind you that you are in the Alps. After breakfast, the day will be yours to explore the surrounding region, whether by gondola, train, or hiking trails. You could walk down to the neighboring town of Gimmelwald for spectacular views of the mountains and the sloping rooftops of the alpine architecture. The trees provide a herbaceous scent of pine as sunlight glints off the snow-capped mountaintops.

For a more adventurous trek, you could cross to Grutschalp where the trail leads you along the edges of the mountains through the Lauterbrunnen Valley. The view opens to the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau Mountains. Jungfrau reaches an altitude of more than 13,600 feet with a prominence of 2,270 feet above the surrounding range. The half-timber houses and prominent peaks bring an unbelieveable atmosphere along the trails and will allow you to experience the seclusion, and the fresh air of the Alps combined with the luxuries of Murren as you return from your hike.

Murren – Delight in the Natural Splendor of the Berner Oberland Region

In the morning, you will wake ready to discover more of the wonders found in Murren and the Alps. Wildflowers blossom yellow and white in the plains outside of Murren as cows and goats graze on the herbs, grass, and wildflowers overflow along the valley trails. You will hear the intermittent ring of the dangling bells that hang around the cows’ necks as your guide will meet you at your hotel and escort you on a full day tour of the surrounding region, beginning with Trummelbach Falls.

The cliffs in Schwarze Monch nearly hide the glacial gorge and rushing waters of the five cascades that plunge down the rugged precipice. Glacial meltwater carved the canyon into a corkscrew shape, and you can step inside of an elevator for a view inside the mountain. A series of walkways and tunnels lead you to the thundering falls, which at times echo across the stone cliff and make the mountainside shudder. The freezing water tumbles down into the niches carved over time and shaped by the receding glaciers as the mist sprays upward from the falls and you catch a cold touch of the water on your skin.

Munich – Relish Mountains, Lakes, and Castles on a Scenic Drive to Bavaria

In the morning, you will take another long look at Jungfrau, the dramatic peak that crowns the entire massif and the aroma of the blossoming wildflowers is strong upon your departure from Murren. The bright yellow and white petals contrast with the tall strands of jade grass, and along the trails, farmers milk their cows and use the milk to create famous Alpine cheese, know for its herbaceous flavor. People believe the flavor stems from the cows’ diet along the foothills. After breakfast, you will leave Murren to begin your scenic journey to Munich, the capital of Bavaria.

En route you will stop in St. Gallen to view the rococo library located inside the Catholic abbey. The town radiates with white walls and red-tiled roofing set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains and verdant rolling hills. The abbey contains more than 170,000 documents, many handwritten and spanning thousands of years. The hall has stunning rococo décor, using polished wood, stucco, and paint to create an elegant effect. The Plan of St. Gall is a 9th-century document that has significant architectural drawings from the years between the fall of the Western Roman Empire and the rising architectural structures of the 13th century.

Munich – Full Day Tour of Munich and the Surrounding Sites

The capital of Bavaria blends traditional charm and modern comforts as the third largest city in the country. The River Isar winds around the fringes of Munich and along the edges of the Bavarian Alps. The aroma of freshly grilled sausages drifts through Old Town where locals hold tight to their heritage in the form of wearing lederhosen and dirndls daily, along with vibrant beer halls, to the more contemporary street cafes. After breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel and take you on you an engaging half-day tour of Munich that will begin with the old streets of the historical city center.

The square of Marienplatz has acted as the central square of the city since its inception and markets were held in the medieval core until the beginning of the 19th century. The reconstructed tower of the Old Town Hall and the notable Virgin’s Column tower over the square’s symmetric stones. The Virgin’s Column was built in the 17th century to commemorate the end of Swedish occupation. New Town Hall was erected near the end of the 19th century and dominates the border of the square. Its towers add drama to the skyline of Old Town and compete with the Cathedral of Our Lady for the tallest spires. Figures and ornaments, many depicting Bavarian dukes and kings, along with fabled animals, decorate the façade. The famous Glockenspiel chimes on the hour at 11 am, 12 pm, and 5 pm to fill the air with old folk tunes.

Salzburg – Visit the Fairytale Castles of King Ludwig at Neuschwanstein

After breakfast, you will depart from Munich to make your way to the ornamental streets of Salzburg, Austria.  Stop first in the town of Fussen to visit the stunning Neuschwanstein Castle, home to King Ludwig II of Bavaria between 1869 and 1886. The tiers and spires of the castle rise above the trees like a fantasy that inspired the likes of Walt Disney who modeled Sleeping Beauty’s castle off of the image before you.

King Ludwig envisioned a creation of Germanic mythology inspired by the operas of Wagner. King Ludwig spent a total of 170 days in residence in the castle but spent years designing and building the unfinished structures. On the grounds, you will discover the Gothic-style bed crowned with intricate spires while the throne room features a Byzantine style set in the mosaic floor, which contains more than two million stones. The grandeur of the edifice embraces fantastical legend and continues to inspire visitors from around the world.

You will continue on the road to Salzburg as the stunning scenery encompasses the town of Berchtesgaden in the Bavarian Alps. Berchtesgaden stands within view of Wazmann, Germany’s second highest mountain, which rises to an altitude of 8,900 feet. The town has a picturesque allure, with flower-clad windowsills glowing with fresh blossoms as the aromas of fresh pretzels and cold beer sweep across the cobbled streets.

Salzburg – Traverse the Streets to Find Culture and History in Salzburg

Salzburg acts as the gateway to Austria from the west and continues to captivate visitors with its magnificent scenery and connection to beautiful music as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The Salzach River reflects the image of the city in its waters as the edging peaks tower over the hilltop fortress and draw your eyes to the marvelous domes and spires of the historical architecture. Follow your guide on a half-day tour through the city’s past and present beauty, from Baroque churches to great squares as horse-drawn carriages trot through the heart of town.

Residenzplatz stands at the heart of Old Town on the left bank of the Salzach River and remains the city’s largest square as built in the mid-16th century. The central fountain spouts water from its marble edifice, and the Baroque style features elaborate images of animals and people holding each shelled tier. The picturesque castle of Hohensalzburg dominates the skyline atop a plateau of 1,660 feet above the surrounding streets.

The pearled facades shine in the sunlight against the background of clear blue sky. Construction on the castle began in the 11th century and you can stroll along the Golden Hall, an elaborate gallery of apartments erected in the late 15th century. The rich ornamentation provides insight into the lifestyle of the archbishops that stayed on the grounds, residing in the apartments up until the 16th century. Four marble pillars on the outer wall were added to create more space while the gold buttons in the ceiling resemble the twinkling stars at night.

Hallstatt – Revel in a Boat Cruise around the Lakeside Town of Hallstatt

Your private transfer will meet you after breakfast and escort you to the charming town of Hallstatt. Located on the idyllic Hallstatter See, the lake covers more than three square miles as the town maintains a storybook quality that is enhanced by the surrounding mountains and glassy waters of the lake. You will arrive and immediately settle into the relaxing ambiance of the market village.

The Roman Catholic Ascension of Our Lady Church was erected in the 15th century, and the Romanesque tower reaches into the sky to imitate the shapes of the mountains. The water shimmers turquoise in the soft breeze that sweeps in from the foothills as inside of the church, you will find the Charnel House, also known as the Bone House. The tradition of secondary burials has almost all but disappeared in the Eastern Alps, but Hallstatt retains its connection with one of the last remaining bone houses.

A church has stood on the grounds since the 12th century, stacked against the steep cliffs. You can enter the basement of St. Michaels Church to find the display nestled into the bedrock. Candles flicker against the walls and add light to the room as the Bone House exhibits 700 painted skulls lined up on rows of wooden shelves. The majority of the painted skulls contain a Maltese Cross that adorns their forehead. The unique tradition adds a sense of wonder to the charms of the Alpine village.

Vienna – Tour Mauthausen Concentration Camp en route to Vienna

In the morning, boats set sail across the lake for visitors to enjoy the view of the soaring mountains and tranquil waters while the church bells echo along the stone streets. After breakfast, you will make your way towards the capital city of Vienna with a stop at Mauthausen along the way. The village lies on the north bank of the Danube River, with the grounds of the nearby KZ Mauthausen Concentration Camp overshadowing the quiet, colorful streets of the village. The Nazi government used the region for its famed quarrying center and brought slave labor from around Central Europe to quarry the granite. The grounds now contain the Mauthausen Memorial Museum dedicated to telling the history of the camp, along with neighboring facilities.

The quarters were designed to hold 200 people but actually housed approximately 500 people each. By 1940, the camp had become the largest labor complex in German-controlled Europe. Today, the mortared walls of the gate remain and lead to the open interiors that are lined by gray-green barracks. Your guide will lead you into the living quarters and into the Sick Quarters where charts and artifacts fill the walls. You will find photos of prisoners and their SS guards and hear multitudes of stories. The quiet atmosphere speaks louder than words ever could, and you will continue to Vienna mindful of the experience of the past as you emerge from its shadow onto the bustling and beautiful streets of the Austrian capital, home to elaborate architecture, rich culture, and Europe’s first coffee house.

Vienna – Enjoy a Full Day Walking Tour of the Remarkable City of Vienna

In the morning the sunlight washes over the black façade of St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The Gothic façade was overlaid on the original foundations of a 12th and 13th-century Romanesque church. The large gate and soaring Heathen Towers harken back to the original construction while the 14th-century Gothic edifice added the choir and three chapels to the structure. The south tower rises to a height of nearly 450 feet tall and was built in the 15th century. The elaborate design encompasses nearly 1,000 years of Viennese culture. Today your guide escorts you through the cityscape so that you can take in the elegance of Vienna’s history and the welcoming attitude of the people.

Students continue to frequent Café Frauenhuber on Himmelpfortgasse, the city’s oldest café, and one frequented by Mozart. You make your way next to the Hofburg, the official residence of Austrian rulers since the 13th century, from kings and emperors to the contemporary Austrian president. The eclectic architecture encompasses Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo styles covering an area of 59 acres with  2,600 rooms. The Swiss gates were designed in the 16th century, and you will have a glance at royalty as you visit the Imperial Silver Collection with more than 7,000 items, including formal tableware. You will marvel most at the nearly 33-foot long Milanese centerpiece cast from gilded bronze.

Vienna – Depart for Home

Vienna maintains its connection to history while being optimistic about its future. The French Baroque style of the National Theater accentuates the splendor of the architecture and the majesty house inside the structure, known for producing celebrated German-language plays and performances. Emperor Joseph II built the theater in the 18th century, and the structure has maintained a quality of performance and décor as incredible frescoes by Gustav and Ernst Klimt decorate the staircase.

The beauty of the city emanates from the cafes and palaces, streets and gardens. You could spend weeks enjoying the pleasures of Vienna and never tire of the culture or scenery. When you are ready, your private transfer will meet you at your hotel and escort you to Vienna Airport for your flight home. You could always extend your stay and continue East to Budapest or Prague to embark on a stunning discovery of Central Europe along the Danube River.

Trip Highlights

• Stroll along the opulent and grandiose walls of the Neuschwanstein Castle celebrated for its fairytale qualities and prominent position above the forest
• Discover the hidden glacial waterfalls near Murren as you take an elevator into the mountain for a look at the thundering cascades
• Visit one of Munich’s celebrated beer halls for an immersive experience of the Bavarian culture
• Stroll along the cobblestone streets and half-timbered buildings of Germany’s oldest town, Triers, and visit the nearby Burg Eltz Castle
• Indulge in the soothing waters of the natural baths in luxurious Baden-Baden
• Trek the fabulous alpine trails outside Murren for unparalleled panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and Lotschen Valley
• Witness the musical and classical ambiance of the riverside Austrian city of Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart
• Discover the painted skeletons of Hallstatt for insight into a cultural artifact of the mountains
• Experience the elegance and grace of Austria’s royalty at the Hofburg Palace, home to Austria’s leaders for nearly 800 years
• Step back into the tumultuous Nazi Era Austria with a tour of Mauthausen Concentration Cap and Holocaust Memorial Museum 
• Relish the Roman ruins around various towns for an introduction into the first vast settlements of the region 

Detailed Description

Many have found inspiration from the splendor of the Alps, and the wonders of the glassy lakes will be your muse during your luxurious custom tailored tour of the highlights of Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. Fairytale castles rise out of the trees as the music of Mozart fills the cobblestone plazas. Hot springs continue to bubble in Roman baths located beneath contemporary spas as Baroque fountains accentuate the beautiful historical architecture. Glaciers glint in the passing alpine sunlight and the sites and sounds of your tour will certainly take your breath away.

Your adventure will begin with your arrival in Triers, Germany. Your private transfer will meet you at Trier–Fohren Airport and escort you into the heart of the country’s oldest town to enjoy an introductory walking tour for your first view of the city’s beautiful streets. Wake the next day to traverse the Roman and medieval core of the city before visiting the nearby village of Beilstein, home to Burg Eltz Castle. The following day, you will make your way to the famous spa town of Baden-Baden. Tour the opulent casino and relax with a soothing hour spent in one of the city’s many spas, fed by the natural hot springs. The next day, meander through the Black Forest to visit towns en route to the snow-peaked region of Berner Oberland in Switzerland and then enjoy a fabulous gondola ride to reach the remarkable cliff-top town of Murren.

The next day will bring you along the trails around Murren and allow you to explore the landscape from the towering mountains to the sunken valley at your preferred pace. Walk the trail to the neighboring village or follow the paths around the foothills to see the high-altitude farms that produce alpine cheese. The next day, you can venture into the rugged mountaintops to see Trummelbach, a series of hidden waterfalls fed by glacial melt water. Travel to Bavaria the next day and stop in the town of St. Gallen along the way. Visit the Abbey and its remarkable medieval library before reaching the vibrant city of Munich. Wake the next day, and your guide will lead you on a historical tour of Old Town. Absorb the architecture, culture, and world-class museums, and you can also visit the English Gardens or Olympic Park.

Travel next to Fussen to explore the fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein. Continue to the village of Berchtesgaden in the Bavarian Alps before crossing the border into Austria to relax in the Baroque city of Salzburg. Explore the stunning scenery of the city the next day during a guided tour of the cobbled streets and elaborate architecture. See the hilltop fortress of Hohensalzburg and Mozart’s birthplace, and then travel next to the charming village of Hallstatt. Cruise on the glassy lake for an exceptional view of the village, mountains, and water and in the afternoon, you can take in a tour of the Bone House or venture to the world’s oldest salt mine.

The following day, you can visit the Mauthausen Concentration Camp to gain insight into Nazi-occupied Austria and the history of the grounds. Back in Vienna, you will take an introductory tour of the grandeur of Austria’s capital city. The next day, you can continue to explore the elegance of Vienna with a walking tour around the Habsburg Palace, Opera House, and fascinating museums. Your private transfer will meet you at your hotel the next day to escort you to the Vienna airport for your flight home, or you could also extend your time in Europe with a luxurious tour of Central Europe or travel southwest to Italy. 

Starting Price

$6,057  per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

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Exploring the Alpine Countries Austria - Germany - Switzerland (Vienna to Lucerne) (2025)

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• Fully Guided

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 Overnight Flight
• Day 2 Vienna, Austria
• Day 3 Vienna
• Day 4 Vienna - Salzburg
• Day 5 Salzburg
• Day 6 Salzburg - Munich - Oberammergau, Germany
• Day 7 Oberammergau - Ettal - Oberammergau
• Day 8 Oberammergau - Black Forest
• Day 9 Black Forest - Freiburg - Black Forest
• Day 10 Black Forest - Zurich, Switzerland - Lucerne
• Day 11 Lucerne
• Day 12 Lucerne - Tour Ends

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Where You'll Stay

Intercontinental Hotel Wien

NH Collection Salzburg City Hotel

Hotel Alte Post

Hofgut Sternen

Radisson Blu Hotel

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5 to 99 years old

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• PJ Paul · 20th July 2023 great tour, beautiful scenery Trip date: July 2023

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Germany, Switzerland, Austria with Prague PreTour

Friendly Bavaria, Germany and Alpine Adventure!

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Region: Europe, Special Events    Type: Custom Groups    Length: Days    Tap Rating: TAP Deluxe

Experience the “Gemütlichkeit” of Munich and pause to remember a moment in history never to be forgotten at Dachau. Listen to the Sound of Music and relive the memories of the “von Trapps” in Salzburg. Tour spectacular places. Dine on “Bratwurst, Spätzle and Schnitzel,” Swiss chocolate and more. Be enthralled with the drama of the Passion Play. Enjoy breathtaking views of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau from the Kleine Scheidegg.  Travel  on the romantic road and walk the ramparts in the medieval walled city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Finish off this amazing tour with a glass of wine overlooking the Rhine River. This is your chance to experience a once-in-a-lifetime tour of some of the most beautiful places in scenic Europe on this alpine tour of Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

Day 1: Depart

The main group departs today for Munich, Germany.

Day 2: Munich, Germany

We arrive at Munich airport and meet our driver and guide. We travel to Dachau, a town just outside of Munich. Our visit to the Concentration Camp Memorial includes a film in English, an informative historical account of the camp’s history and plenty of time to walk the grounds on our own. Later, we continue to Munich, Bavaria’s friendly capital city. Our leader acquaints us with the pedestrian zone around the Marienplatz, the main square in front of the new town hall. There is time to do some sightseeing and shopping before checking in at our hotel. Dinner tonight is at a local “bräuhaus” a traditional Munich restaurant/beerhall. Maritim München or similar

Day 3: Munich

Today, we discover other Munich sites by taking a locally guided tour that includes many highlights such as the grounds of Nymphenburg Palace, the elegant Maximillian Straße and the 1972 Olympic Grounds. Our tour ends at the Marienplatz where we watch the Glockenspiel play in the tower of the Neues Rathaus. The rest of the day is ours to shop along the mile-long pedestrian zone, get a bite to eat at the nearby Viktualien Market or visit one of a number of fine museums. Dinner is on our own tonight so some may wish to visit Munich’s Hofbräuhaus for dinner, singing and live entertainment. Maritim München or similar

Day 4: Salzburg, Austria

Our first stop today is in Berchtesgaden, where we don miners’ apparel and descend into a salt mine for an unforgettable tour. Afterwards, we continue to Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest, a chalet built at the top of the Kehlstein mountain. On a clear day, the site affords beautiful views of the Alps. Next, we travel to Salzburg, Austria, which is famous for being Mozart’s birthplace and the backdrop for “The Sound of Music.” We enjoy some free time to explore the narrow winding streets of the old city before dinner. Hotel Astoria or similar

Day 5: Salzburg

Today a local guide joins us for a walking tour of Salzburg. We see the magnificent Cathedral, the Getreidegasse, the city’s quaint shopping area, a photo stop at Mozart’s birth house and a walkthrough at St. Peter’s Cemetery. After time for lunch, we enjoy an excursion to the Salzkammergut. With its beautiful mountains and alpine lakes, it is an immensely popular vacation destination for many Austrians. After exploring some of the lakes and sites, we return to Salzburg for a treat - dinner and a concert in the Stiftskeller St. Peter! It is the perfect setting to enjoy delicious Austrian food and the music of Mozart. Hotel Astoria or similar

Day 6: Oberammergau Area, Germany

Departing Austria, we return to Germany as we drive through the Bavarian countryside to the Wieskirche. This “Church in the Meadow” is a fine example of Rococo architecture. Next, we take a short drive to Füssen to visit Palace Neuschwanstein. One of three palaces built by Bavaria’s King Ludwig II, Walt Disney used it as the model for his Fantasyland Castle. Finally, we pass by Germany’s highest mountain and arrive in GarmischPartenkirchen, an alpine valley surrounded by the foothills of the alps, for a two-night stay. TBD

Day 7: Oberammergau Area

We enjoy a relaxed morning in Oberammergau, admiring the bright frescoes that adorn many of the homes and businesses, perhaps shopping for a souvenir woodcarving for which the village is famous. After included lunch, we attend Part One of the Passion Play, the legacy of a vow made by the Oberammergauers in 1633 to enact the Passion story. Due to the ravages of the Thirty Years War, the plague had taken its toll in lives. But many of the people were spared, and the following year, 1634, the first Passion Play Salzburg Rothenburg ob der Tauber was performed on a stage set up in the cemetery. After dinner we attend Part Two. TBD

Day 8: Sarnen area, Switzerland

Today’s drive is filled with breathtaking mountain scenery as we travel over mountain passes to the Bernese Oberland area of Switzerland. Our first stop is in Vaduz, the capital of the small principality of Liechtenstein. We also spend time in lovely Lucerne to enjoy a late lunch and see the poignant Lion Monument that pays tribute to the Swiss mercenaries who lost their lives defending the kings of France. There is time to explore this beautiful city, including taking a walk across the famous wooden Chapel Bridge, or shopping for Swiss Chocolate, before continuing to our hotel in Sarnen. Grand Hotel Giessbach or similar

Day 9: Sarnen area

This morning we drive to view the Trümmelbachfälle, several waterfalls within a mountain that drain nearby glaciers. The raw power and beauty of the falls have attracted tourists for decades. Afterwards, we take an excursion up into the heart of the Swiss Alps. We start by riding a cogwheel train to the small car-free town of Wengen, where we have some time to explore before taking a gondola up to the ridge of the nearby mountain. From there it’s an easy and leisurely hike to Kleine Scheidegg. Our hike affords breathtaking vistas of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks, as well as views of the tiny villages in the valley. At Kleine Scheidegg, we have time for lunch before taking a train down to Grindelwald where there’s an opportunity to shop or simply relax at one of the many outdoor cafés. This evening’s entertainment features a Swiss folklore show at our hotel. Grand Hotel Giessbach or similar

Day 10: Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Departing Switzerland, we travel via Lake Constance and southern Bavaria to the medieval walled city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Upon our arrival, we visit St. James Church and see the famous altar created by the renowned woodcarver, Tilman Riemenschneider. The rest of the afternoon is ours to explore the cobblestone streets and ramparts and admire the half-timbered buildings that make us feel as if we have stepped back in time. After dinner, we learn more about life in medieval times as we accompany the night watchman on a guided tour of the town. Akzent Schranne or similar

Day 11: Rüdesheim

Our final day in Europe features a cruise on the mighty Rhine River. We leave Rothenburg and travel to Rüdesheim where we board a boat and enjoy time on one of Europe’s most important waterways. Along the way, we hear about the history of the many castle ruins and vineyards that dot the hillside along the river. After our cruise, we transfer to our hotel and have some time for last minute shopping in the Getreidegasse before dinner. Tonight, we celebrate our last evening in Europe with a farewell dinner and a tasting of the region’s fine Rhine wines. Ringhotel Central or similar

Day 12: Return

Sadly, we say “Auf Wiedersehen” to Europe as we transfer to the Frankfurt Airport for our return flight to the United States. We take with us memories of exciting cities, peaceful villages, great entertainment, and beautiful, unforgettable scenery.

Arrival Instructions

Arrive to Munich, Germany by 10:00 am via Munich Int'l Airport (MUC)

Departure Instructions

Depart from Munich, Germany after 11:00 am via Frankfurt am Main International Airport (FRA)

Payment Policy

Deposit: $500.00 per person due at time of booking - final payment due 100 days prior to departure

Cancellation Policy

Tour includes:.

• Land transportation - via private, deluxe air-conditioned motor coach
• Accommodations (double-occupancy) - in moderate first class hotels
• Meals as indicated in itinerary - (10 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 9 Dinners)
• Services of a professional tour guide throughout the tour
• Admission - to all activities listed on itinerary
• Luggage handling - (one piece per person at hotels)
• Luggage tags and strap, name badge and trip journal
• All taxes and tips for services provided
• Optional trip cancellation and interruption insurance - (available for an additional cost)
• OPTIONAL PRE-TOUR to PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC - Departs Aug 24; ask for details!

Tour Highlights:

• Golden City of Prague Tour (Pre-Tour)
• Prague Jewish Quarter (Pre-Tour)
• Tour of Hradcany Castle (Pre-Tour)
• Free time in Prague for shopping (Pre-Tour)
• Dachau Memorial
• Munich City Tour
• Marienplatz Square and Glockenspiel
• Salt Mine Tour & Eagle's Nest
• Salzburg City Tour
• Neuschwanstein Palace
• Historic Passion Play in Oberammergau
• Lion Monument in Lucerne
• Swiss Alps & Alpine Vistas
• Excursion to Kleine Scheidegg & Grindelwald
• Swiss Folklore Show
• Riemanschneider Altar in Rothenburg
• Rhine River Cruise
• Wine Tasting Farewell Dinner in Rüdesheim

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If you would like to make a reservation or need more information, please complete the following information and one of our travel experts will contact you. Even if a departure is listed as sold out, other departures may be available.

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Music students complete European tour

Submitted Photo Students from seven schools in Chautauqua County recently participated in the EMPIRE tour with American Music Abroad.

Twenty-five students from high schools throughout Chautauqua County recently returned from the EMPIRE tour with American Music Abroad. Their 20-day tour included Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, Italy, Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, where they performed 7 concerts and experienced cultural dinners, sightseeing, and museum tours.

Students performed in string orchestra, choir, and concert band, under head directors Rich and Christine Riederer. Local band director J. Nicole Zenns from Cassadaga Valley conducted two pieces with the concert band, and continues to serve as Chautauqua County recruiter for AMA Empire Tour. Another tour is planned for July 2025.

Students are listed by school and instrument below:

Cassadaga Valley High School: Gia Knott, flute; Miranda Ryen, alto saxophone; James Mullen, bari sax; Angelica Mullen, trumpet; Cathryn Russell, French horn; Skyler Szablewski, euphonium; Aubre Bonasera, percussion.

Chautauqua Lake Secondary School: Daniel Klinek-Cornell, choir; Eve Kushmaul, trumpet & choir; Lydia Kushmaul, French horn & choir; Meghan Pauley, choir; Caleb Prewitt, euphonium; Eliot Reyda, trumpet.

Dunkirk High School: Michael Brown, euphonium.

Fredonia High School: Grant Abbey, bass; Jackson Gollnitz, trombone.

Jamestown High School: Olivia Beach, French horn & choir; Hayden Langford, French horn & choir; Alison Latona, flute & choir; Adrianna McSkimming, clarinet & choir; McKenna Schneider, trombone & choir.

Silver Creek High School: Emily Bowers, trumpet; Sam Bowers, trombone.

Southwestern High School: Dorian Weaver, trumpet; Alana Weaver, percussion.

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