Exploring the Alpine Countries Austria – Germany – Switzerland
Discover storybook castles and opulent palaces amidst stunning Alpine vistas as you explore Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. Visit Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna. Take a cruise along the legendary Danube. Stroll the quaint streets of Salzburg, the “City of Music.” Spend two nights in the heart of the Black Forest. Visit Oberammergau, renowned for its 380-year tradition of producing a Passion Play every decade. Witness the beauty of Linderhof Palace and its perfectly decorated gardens. From Vienna and the Black Forest to the Swiss Alps and Lucerne, explore the heart of Europe.
- 09 Jul 2027 – 19 Jul 2027
from $8,299 pp twin share / $10,249 pp solo * - 16 Jul 2027 – 26 Jul 2027
from $8,299 pp twin share / $10,249 pp solo * - 23 Jul 2027 – 02 Aug 2027
from $8,299 pp twin share / $10,249 pp solo * - 06 Aug 2027 – 16 Aug 2027
from $8,299 pp twin share / $10,249 pp solo * - 27 Aug 2027 – 06 Sep 2027
from $8,299 pp twin share / $10,249 pp solo * - 03 Sep 2027 – 13 Sep 2027
from $8,749 pp twin share / $10,849 pp solo * - 10 Sep 2027 – 20 Sep 2027
from $8,749 pp twin share / $10,849 pp solo * - 12 Sep 2027 – 22 Sep 2027
from $8,749 pp twin share / $10,849 pp solo * - 17 Sep 2027 – 27 Sep 2027
from $8,749 pp twin share / $10,849 pp solo * - 19 Sep 2027 – 29 Sep 2027
from $8,749 pp twin share / $10,849 pp solo * - 24 Sep 2027 – 04 Oct 2027
from $8,749 pp twin share / $10,849 pp solo * - 26 Sep 2027 – 06 Oct 2027
from $8,749 pp twin share / $10,849 pp solo * - 01 Oct 2027 – 11 Oct 2027
from $8,299 pp twin share / $10,249 pp solo * - 08 Oct 2027 – 18 Oct 2027
from $7,999 pp twin share / $9,949 pp solo * - 15 Oct 2027 – 25 Oct 2027
from $7,999 pp twin share / $9,949 pp solo * - 21 Apr 2028 – 01 May 2028
from $7,999 pp twin share / $9,949 pp solo * - 28 Apr 2028 – 08 May 2028
from $8,299 pp twin share / $10,249 pp solo * - 05 May 2028 – 15 May 2028
from $8,749 pp twin share / $10,849 pp solo * - 07 May 2028 – 17 May 2028
from $8,749 pp twin share / $10,849 pp solo * - 14 May 2028 – 24 May 2028
from $8,749 pp twin share / $10,849 pp solo * - 19 May 2028 – 29 May 2028
from $8,749 pp twin share / $10,849 pp solo * - 26 May 2028 – 05 Jun 2028
from $8,749 pp twin share / $10,849 pp solo * - 02 Jun 2028 – 12 Jun 2028
from $8,749 pp twin share / $10,849 pp solo * - 09 Jun 2028 – 19 Jun 2028
from $8,749 pp twin share / $10,849 pp solo * - 23 Jun 2028 – 03 Jul 2028
from $8,749 pp twin share / $10,849 pp solo * - 30 Jun 2028 – 10 Jul 2028
from $8,749 pp twin share / $10,849 pp solo *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Vienna, Austria
Welcome to Vienna, Austria’s stately capital city. Built by the Habsburg Empire and enriched by classical composers, Vienna exudes an old-world charm through its cobblestone streets and grand architecture. As arrival times will vary, there is no scheduled sightseeing today. Spend the day exploring the city independently before meeting your fellow travelers this evening for a welcome dinner in the city.
Day 2 – Vienna
Discover Vienna today in the company of a local guide. Begin with a visit to the magnificent 17th-century Schönbrunn Palace, boasting more than 1,440 rooms and once serving as the summer residence of the Habsburg dynasty. Continue with a panoramic city tour followed by a guided walk highlighting Vienna’s architectural treasures, from Hofburg Palace to St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore the city’s grand boulevards, cafés, and museums. Tonight, delight in a performance by opera singers and ballet dancers set to the music of Strauss, Mozart, and other classical masters.
Day 3 – Vienna – Salzburg
This morning, travel through the scenic Austrian countryside before boarding a relaxing cruise on the Danube River, one of Europe’s most celebrated waterways. Arrive in Salzburg, the picturesque “City of Music,” renowned for its baroque architecture, lush gardens, and connection to Mozart. Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon and evening at leisure to explore at your own pace or perhaps join your Tour Manager for an orientation stroll.
Day 4 – Salzburg
Choose how you spend your morning because it’s your choice! Discover Salzburg during a leisurely walking tour of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with charming squares and historic landmarks -OR- follow in the footsteps of the Von Trapp family during a city tour highlighting some of the famous filming locations from The Sound of Music. This afternoon is yours to explore Salzburg independently. Perhaps browse local shops, enjoy a café along the Salzach River, or join an optional tour to the Eagle’s Nest, a Nazi-era retreat with stunning alpine views and unique WWII history.
Day 5 – Salzburg – Mittenwald – Oberammergau, Germany
Look out upon the Bavarian Alps en route to the picturesque alpine village of Mittenwald. Upon arrival, enjoy time to explore this village, renowned for its colorful Lüftlmalerei-painted houses and rich musical heritage. Take a self-guided walk through the Violin Making Museum to learn about this centuries-old craft that defines the region. Afterwards, enjoy free time for lunch on your own and a stroll through the village. Continue on to Oberammergau, famed for its once-a-decade Passion Play and its tradition of intricate woodcarving. This unique village, set against a striking alpine backdrop, will be your home for the next two nights.
Day 6 – Oberammergau – Ettal – Oberammergau
Today, visit Linderhof Palace, the only palace completed during the lifetime of King Ludwig II. Explore its ornate interiors, inspired by the grandeur of Versailles, and experience the opulence of Bavaria’s royal past. Continue to Ettal monastery, a beautiful Benedictine abbey set against a stunning alpine backdrop. Here, visit the monastery and its traditional brewery, where you can sample local specialties crafted by the monks. Enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque Bavarian countryside, taking in sweeping mountain views, charming villages, and lush alpine landscapes before returning to Oberammergau.
Day 7 – Oberammergau – Black Forest
Journey into the legendary Black Forest, a region known for its deep evergreen landscapes, traditional crafts, and charming villages. Famous for handmade cuckoo clocks and Hummel figurines, the Black Forest also boasts one of Germany’s best-loved desserts. End your day with a slice of authentic Black Forest cake, surrounded by postcard-worthy scenery.
Day 8 – Black Forest – Freiburg – Black Forest
Travel by train this morning to Freiburg, a city on the edge of the Black Forest region. With a local guide, explore Freiburg’s medieval charm, including its magnificent Gothic cathedral and unique Bächle — narrow water channels running alongside the streets that once served as the city’s water system. Before returning to your hotel, visit Lake Titisee and enjoy a boat ride immersed in the beauty of the Black Forest landscape.
Day 9 – Black Forest – Schaffhausen, Switzerland – Lucerne
Enjoy a scenic drive through the Black Forest region before arriving in Schaffhausen, a charming Swiss town near the German border. Visit the spectacular Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, and take in impressive views from the Laufen Castle viewing platform. Afterwards, enjoy some free time in Schaffhausen to explore at your leisure or have lunch on your own. Continue to Lucerne, the “Swiss Paradise on the Lake.” Upon arrival, join your Tour Manager for an orientation walk through Lucerne’s charming Old Town. This evening, enjoy dinner on your own.
Day 10 – Lucerne
Enjoy a full day at leisure to experience Lucerne at your own pace. You may choose an optional excursion to Mount Pilatus, ascending to the summit via the world’s steepest cogwheel railway and a panoramic gondola for incredible Alpine views. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner featuring regional Swiss specialties as you celebrate the end of an unforgettable journey.
Day 11 – Lucerne – Tour Ends
Wish the Alps goodbye as your tour comes to a close today.
Highlights
- Guided tours of Schönbrunn Palace and Linderhof Palace included
- Danube River cruise and train journey through scenic Alpine countryside
- Two nights in Salzburg and two nights in the Black Forest
Discover storybook castles and opulent palaces amidst stunning Alpine vistas as you explore Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. Visit Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna. Take a cruise along the legendary Danube. Stroll the quaint streets of Salzburg, the “City of Music.” Spend two nights in the heart of the Black Forest. Visit Oberammergau, renowned for its 380-year tradition of producing a Passion Play every decade. Witness the beauty of Linderhof Palace and its perfectly decorated gardens. From Vienna and the Black Forest to the Swiss Alps and Lucerne, explore the heart of Europe.
Inclusions
- Explore the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace.
- Enjoy a performance set to the music of Strauss, Mozart, and more, in Vienna.
- Explore Linderhof Palace, the lavish retreat of Bavaria’s King Ludwig II.
- Take in breathtaking views of Rhine Falls from Laufen Castle.
- Spend two nights in the charming city of Salzburg.
- Cruise along the legendary Danube River.
FAQs
- InterContinental Hotel, Vienna
- NH Collection Salzburg City Hotel, Salzburg
- Hotel Alte Post, Oberammergau
- Hofgut Sternen, Titisee
- Hotel Astoria, Lucerne
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 11 days and 10 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 09 Jul 2027 and 10 Jul 2028, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Can I travel solo?
Solo pricing may be available on selected departures, and final options can be confirmed at enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
Provided by: ColletteFine Print
Terms and conditions apply. Click here for more details.
Enquire Now
Speak with our travel experts and get your personalised quote.