Switzerland and Austria

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

$4,725

 

Tour Description

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.

 
 

HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS

Zurich, Switzerland: Start your journey in Zurich, a city known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural surroundings. Explore the charming Old Town, with its narrow, winding streets and historic buildings. Visit the world-renowned Bahnhofstrasse for luxury shopping and enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Zurich.

Lucerne: Discover the storybook charm of Lucerne, set against the backdrop of Lake Lucerne and the Swiss Alps. Walk across the iconic Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), visit the poignant Lion Monument, and explore the quaint streets of the old town. For an unforgettable experience, take a boat cruise on Lake Lucerne or ride the cogwheel train up Mount Pilatus.

Interlaken: Experience the thrill of Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Enjoy a scenic train ride to Jungfraujoch, the "Top of Europe," where you can marvel at the panoramic views of the Alps and explore the ice caves.

 
  • Day 1 | Welcome to Zürich

    Your epic journey to the heart of Europe launches in

    the sophisticated cultural hotspot of Zürich. This

    afternoon, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience

    for a social impact guided walking tour of old town

    Zurich. This experience addresses SDG goals 10 & 12 -

    Reduced Inequalities & Responsible Consumption and

    Production. This evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner in

    this beautiful lakeside setting.

    Meals: Dinner

    Hotel: Mövenpick Airport

    Day 2 | Journey to Liechtenstein and Salzburg

    Embark on a soul-stirring encounter with the valleys and

    lofty peaks of Liechtenstein, bound for its tiny capital,

    Vaduz. Continue along the scenic Arlberg route through

    the Tyrol to your overnight stop in the Baroque city of

    Salzburg. Here, you will join a Local Specialist for a

    walking tour that will take you past iconic sights,

    including the house where Mozart once lived and

    Domplatz with its imposing Salzburger Dom Cathedral,

    Residenz Castle and St. Peter's Abbey.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Holiday Inn Salzburg City

    Day 3 | Onwards to Vienna

    Waltz through the scenic Austrian countryside, past Lake

    Mondsee and the rolling hills and fortresses of the

    Wachau Valley, then continue to Vienna. Perhaps spend

    your first evening in the 'City of Music' on an Optional

    Experience Viennese dinner with traditional

    entertainment.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Premier Inn Wien City Hauptbanhof

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:

    second leg of the journey, on a spectacular road that's been blasted out of the mountain side. Finally, we'll take an

    elevator to the Eagle's Nest, intended as a mountain retreat for Hitler and his inner circle. Once at the top, we'll learn

    its fascinating history and take in awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountain peaks, whilst enjoying a local

    refreshment!

    Adult: 75.00 EUR

    * The optional experience Eagle's Nest & The Bavarian Alps is weather dependent and subject to seasonal closures,

    therefore it may not be available on all departures.

    Lake and Mountain Tour - Today, with our Local Specialist, we'll marvel at the Alpine beauty of the Salzburg lake

    district, with its 76 glacier lakes and picturesque towns like Sankt Gilgen. We'll also have the chance to see some of the

    major backdrops for the film "The Sound of Music".

    Adult: 49.00 EUR

    Viennese Dinner with Musical Entertainment - Enjoy dinner in an atmospheric Viennese restaurant, with drinks and

    traditional musical entertainment included. A unique experience in one of Europe’s most elegant cities.

    Adult: 73.00 EUR

    Day 4 | Discover Artistic Vienna

    Admire the grand boulevards and beautiful Baroque

    façades on a guided sightseeing tour with a Local

    Specialist, who will take you to see the State Opera,

    Hofburg, St. Stephen's Cathedral and Parliament.

    Immerse yourself in the centuries-old history, before

    spending free time soaking up the coffee house culture

    of the city. This evening, you may wish to embrace the

    talents of Vienna and attend a Viennese concert in one

    of the city's magnificent performance venues.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Premier Inn Wien City Hauptbanhof

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens - The Imperial Summer Palace of Schönbrunn offers an amazing journey through the

    centuries of Habsburg rule. It is perfectly preserved and richly decorated with treasures from around the globe. Each

    room has a story to tell, so of course, you’ll have a Local Specialist to bring it to life and to make the most of your time.

    Adult: 59.00 EUR

    * This optional experience involves reservation and entrance pre-payments. Cancellation's will incur a 50% cancellation

    fee.

    Dinner And Viennese Concert - A wonderful evening of all things Viennese! We'll enjoy a superb dinner with drinks,

    followed by a concert of Viennese classical music. With your 'A Class' tickets, you will experience works by Johann

    Strauss and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart performed in a classic, sumptuous setting and a complimentary glass of

    sparkling wine or juice during the concert. Please note: on occasion, a small gift will be offered in place of a glass of

    sparkling wine.

    Adult: 123.00 EUR

    Day 5 | Off to the Riverside Villach

    We journey south to Graz, with its striking architecture

    and fascinating Roman history. Continue to Lipizzaner

    Stud farm at Piber where we'll Dive Into Culture and gain

    insights into the breeding of these athletic white

    stallions for the Spanish Riding School. Connect With

    Locals at a Be My Guest experience, join the nuns of

    Kloster Wernberg at a monastery housed in a beautiful

    old castle. Enjoy their hospitality and a traditional

    homemade dinner with herbs from their own garden,

    before heading to Villach, our home for tonight.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Hotel: Palais26

    Day 6 | Ascend to Alpine Innsbruck

    Enjoy spectacular Alpine scenery, journeying over the

    remarkable Felbertauern Road on your way to

    Innsbruck, capital of the Tyrol. Here you will have an

    opportunity to admire Emperor Maximilian I's Golden

    Roof, St. James Cathedral and see the Olympic ski jump.

    You could choose to marvel at the fascinating crystal

    installations and browse for precious gifts and souvenirs

    at the Swarovski Crystal Worlds Store.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Grauer Bär

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Tyrolean Evening With Dinner - Enjoy a delicious meal of traditional Tyrolean cuisine before a lively folklore show,

    where singers, dancers and musicians dressed in national costume provide an evening of entertainment and fun.

    Drinks are included.

    Adult: 86.00 EUR

    Ski Jump and Strudel - Come and experience the Tyrolean Alps from the launch pad of Innsbruck's iconic ski jump, one

    of the sites of the annual Four Hills Tournament. From the first Winter Youth Olympics onward, Innsbruck has staged

    three Winter Olympics – more than any other city. We'll continue to soak up Alpine scenery with our Local Specialist,

    immersing ourselves in the region’s culinary culture with a strudel baking lesson. Don't worry - we won't leave without

    sampling the most famous cake of the Alpine region!

    Adult: 64.00 EUR

    Day 7 | Venture to St. Moritz

    This morning, we cross the Swiss border and travel

    through the enchanting landscapes of the Engadine

    Valley. Arriving in the chic winter sports resort of St.

    Moritz, we have the afternoon on our own to explore

    the scenic landscape or perhaps take the Bernina line

    train.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Hotel: Reine Victoria

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Bernina Pass Discovery - Board a train across the spectacular Bernina Pass, one of Switzerland's iconic rail routes. Our

    panoramic journey takes us to a local hostelry where you can indulge in a typical apéro of tasty snacks and vintages, a

    truly local experience!

    Adult: 93.00 CHF

    Day 8 | Journey to Lake Maggiore and on to Zermatt

    Drive via the Maloja Pass, past Lake Como, to Lake

    Maggiore. Explore the lakeside town of Stresa, before

    seeing the Borromean Islands. Then, head towards the

    Simplon Pass en route to Zermatt, where you will dine at

    your hotel.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Hotel: Ambassador

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Discover The Borromean Islands - We've organised a private launch to take you to the beautiful islands of Lake

    Maggiore. Here you will meet with your Local Specialist to do a tour of the magnificent palace. You will also explore

    the Island’s baroque garden with its white peacocks and vista terraces, from where you can enjoy privileged views of

    the Alps, the Isola Madre and the Isola dei Pescatori.

    Adult: 61.00 EUR

    * This optional is only able to be operated between mid-March and the end of October.

    Day 9 | Zermatt Your Way

    Spend a full free day soaking up Zermatt's crisp

    mountain air and panoramic vistas. Relax in beautiful

    surroundings or consider an Optional Experience to the

    Klein Matterhorn for the most spectacular mountain

    views.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Ambassador

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Klein Matterhorn Excursion - A unique electric taxi service will drive us to the foot of Zermatt's highest and most

    spectacular mountain ride. You’ll enjoy stunning views as we ascend to Furi and Trockener Steg, before boarding

    Europe's highest cable car to 3883m (12,740ft) to view the magnificent snow-capped top of the world.

    Adult: 135.00 CHF

    Zermatt Dinner Experience - Discover the beautiful mountainous resort town of Zermatt. Afterwards, we'll enjoy a

    wonderful dinner in a typical chalet-style restaurant with an opportunity to try the world-famous raclette and fondue.

    Adult: 96.00 CHF

    * This optional experience may not operate during the winter months.

    Day 10 | On to Lake Geneva and Montreux

    We continue our journey through the Rhône Valley,

    arriving on the tranquil shores of Lake Geneva later

    today, where we will view Chillon Castle. We follow the

    lakeshore to Montreux, set against the pristine

    backdrop of snow-covered peaks and vineyards.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Mona Montreux

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:

    Chaplin's World and Lake Geneva Cruise - Enjoy the palm trees on the shores of Lake Geneva from a romantic sidewheel paddle steamer as we cruise along the eastern shore of Lake Geneva. We’ll visit the Charlie Chaplin museum,

    setonthebanksofthelakeonhisformerestateManoirdeBanChaplinspentthelast23yearsofhislifehereand

    finish with a peaceful walk in the gardens.

    Adult: 73.00 CHF

    Lake Geneva Cruise with Meal - Enjoy an unforgettable cruise on the ‘Belle Epoque ‘ steamers of the CGN company on

    Lake Geneva. The lake is one of Western Europe’s largest and its waters meet the shores of both Switzerland and

    France. You’ll see picturesque villages and towns in both countries as well as the majestic Alps and, on clear days, Mont

    Blanc. A three-course meal will be served in their wood-panelled dining room while you admire awe-inspiring Alpine

    scenery dining on the specialities of the Vaud canton.

    Adult: 105.00 CHF

    Day 11 | Cross the Brünig Pass to Lucerne

    Travel via Bern to Interlaken, set in the heart of

    Switzerland in the shadow of the mighty Jungfrau. Then,

    cross the Brünig Pass to lakeside Lucerne, where you’ll

    view the ancient wooden Chapel Bridge suspended over

    the Reuss and visit the poignant Lion Monument to pay

    tribute to the brave Swiss Guards who lost their lives

    defending Louis XVI during the French Revolution.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Grand Europe

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Swiss Folklore Evening with Dinner - Tonight we’ll enjoy a tasty Swiss meal, including the famous Swiss cheese fondue,

    in a typical restaurant. While enjoying dinner, you can also join in a lively folklore show which includes yodelling, flagthrowing and Alpine horn-blowing. Two drinks are also included.

    Adult: 111.00 CHF

    Day 12 | Lucerne Your Way

    Snow-capped peaks surround you as you wander

    through the medieval streets of Lucerne, lined with

    colourful muralled façades. Spend a full day on your own

    exploring the Old Town, enjoy a leisurely Swiss lunch or

    consider an Optional Experience ascending a nearby

    mountain for panoramic views. This evening, toast to

    your epic journey during your Farewell Dinner.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Hotel: Grand Europe

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    'Swisstainable' Mount Stanserhorn And Lake Cruise - Take a scenic cruise with us across Lake Lucerne to Stans, and

    one of Switzerland's oldest mountain railways. Travelling by funicular and the world's first Cabrio cable car, we'll reach

    1900m (6300ft), where you’ll have free time to admire the stunning Alpine scenery.

    Adult: 121.00 CHF

    * On certain departures, this optional may be operated in reverse, ending with the cruise. It may also be operated without

    the cruise for CHF 78.

    Swiss Countryside & Carriages - A chance to get to know the Swiss, you’ll meet local farmers and enjoy a delightful

    countryside tour in horse-drawn carriages. Soak up the stunning scenery as we trot around a typical rural community,

    en route to a local homestead where you’ll savour local drinks and snacks.

    Adult: 77.00 CHF

    * Children must be accompanied by an adult.

    Day 13 | Journey Home

    We say a fond farewell to Switzerland and our newfound

    friends at the end of an unforgettable journey.

    Meals: Breakfast

  • 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

    High-speed train from Barcelona to Madrid

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

  • Booking and Payments

    • Deposit: A non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total tour cost is required to confirm your booking.

    • Final Payment: The balance must be paid in full 90 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of your booking.

    Cancellations and Refunds

    • Cancellation by Client:

    • More than 90 days before departure: Loss of deposit.

    • 30-90 days before departure: 65% of the total tour cost.

    • Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total tour cost.

    • Cancellation by Company: We reserve the right to cancel the tour due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, a full refund will be provided.

    • Changes to Itinerary

    • Flexibility Required: Weather and road conditions may necessitate changes to the planned route and itinerary. Flexibility is essential.

    • Substitutions: We reserve the right to substitute accommodations and services of similar standard when necessary.

    Travel Insurance

    • Mandatory: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, personal injury, and emergency evacuation is mandatory for all participants.

    • Proof Required: Proof of insurance must be provided before the tour begins.

    Health and Safety

    • Fitness Level: A reasonable level of fitness is required for participation in the activities outlined in the tour itinerary.

    • Medical Conditions: Participants must disclose any pre-existing medical conditions at the time of booking.

    Liability

    • Responsibility: The company will not be held liable for any injury, loss, or damage to personal property that occurs during the tour.

    • Third-Party Services: The company is not responsible for the actions or omissions of third-party providers, such as airlines or accommodation services.

    Visas and Documentation

    • Passport Validity: Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date.

    • Visas: Obtaining necessary visas and travel documents is the responsibility of the participant.

    Conduct

    • Respect for Culture: Participants are expected to respect local customs and cultures.

    • Behavior: Disruptive or harmful behavior may result in the participant being asked to leave the tour, with no refund provided.

    Complaints

    • Immediate Reporting: Any complaints should be reported immediately to the tour leader to allow for a timely resolution.

    • Post-Tour Complaints: Complaints must be submitted in writing within 30 days of the tour's conclusion.

    By booking this tour, you agree to adhere to these terms and conditions.

 

Travellers photos