Switzerland and Austria

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 and sustainable chocolate tasting. This experience addresses SDG goals 10 & 12 - Reduced Inequalities & Responsible Consumption and Production. This evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner in this beautiful lakeside setting.

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.

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.

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 Kaffee 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.

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. Then head to Villach, our home for tonight. This evening, we Connect With Locals and join Sister Monika and 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 at this Be My Guest experience.

Enjoy spectacular Alpine scenery, journeying over the remarkable Felbertauern Road on your way to the capital of the Tyrol, Innsbruck. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

We say a fond farewell to Switzerland and our newfound friends at the end of an unforgettable journey.