Exploring the Alpine Countries Austria - Germany - Switzerland

From regal Austrian palaces to handcrafted German clocks and snowcapped Swiss Alps, set out to experience three Alpine cultures set amid postcard-worthy landscapes.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Wish the Alps goodbye as your tour comes to a close today.