Peaks to Palaces: 10 Days in Switzerland, Germany, and Austria

10 Day Tour of Zurich, Lucerne, Salzburg and Munich

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Trip Map
Itinerary
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10 Days 9 Nights

Best Time: Jan-Dec

Nature Lovers

History Buffs

Experience Europe's grand architecture and natural splendor over 10 days, visiting the historic cities of Zurich, Lucerne, Salzburg, and Munich. You'll get intimately acquainted with each city on private walking tours, and enjoy four excursions to the mountain-ringed lakes and lofty Alpine peaks of Switzerland, Austria, and Bavaria, including a visit to the fairy-tale castle of Neuschwanstein. You'll manage it all with ease, thanks to the detailed travel guidance provided by Go Real Travel's mobile app, ensuring you cover both the unmissable attractions as well as the hidden gems.

Discover Zurich on a private walking tour and follow it up with a serene cruise on Lake Zurich.
Take in epic Swiss Alpine views as you ascend the world's steepest cog-wheel train to Mt. Pilatus.
Enjoy Salzburg's musical & architectural heritage in the Mirabell Gardens & Hohensalzburg Fortress.
Explore the heart of Munich, from the historic Marienplatz to the English Garden, a local favorite.
Relax in Swiss lakeside cafes, Salzburg's historic taverns, and in Munich's bustling beer gardens.

Discover Zurich on a private walking tour and follow it up with a serene cruise on Lake Zurich.
Take in epic Swiss Alpine views as you ascend the world's steepest cog-wheel train to Mt. Pilatus.
Enjoy Salzburg's musical & architectural heritage in the Mirabell Gardens & Hohensalzburg Fortress.
Explore the heart of Munich, from the historic Marienplatz to the English Garden, a local favorite.
Relax in Swiss lakeside cafes, Salzburg's historic taverns, and in Munich's bustling beer gardens.

Fraumunster

Churches & Monasteries

Lake Zurich

Natural Beauty

Chapel Bridge

Natural Beauty

Lake Lucerne

Natural Beauty

Old Town

Historic Landmarks

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Castles & Chateaux

Old Town

Architecture

Old Town

Architecture

Residence Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Must see sights

Fraumunster

Churches & Monasteries

Lake Zurich

Natural Beauty

Chapel Bridge

Natural Beauty

Lake Lucerne

Natural Beauty

Old Town

Historic Landmarks

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Castles & Chateaux

Old Town

Architecture

Old Town

Architecture

Residence Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Starting from

$3691

per person

4.8 (365 reviews)

Not included

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Day-By-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Zurich

Day 1

Arrive Zurich

To Be Determined

Private Transfer from the Zurich Airport

We will schedule a pick up for 20 minutes after your flight's arrival time. You will be met in the terminal by an English speaking driver holding a sign with your name on it. The ride is for your party only - you will not be sharing a vehicle. The cost of the ride will be included in your itinerary package.

Day 1

Arrive Zurich

To Be Determined:

Zurich Airport Pickup

Mid-Day/Afternoon:

West Bank, Self-Guided

Late Afternoon/Early Evening:

East Bank, Self Guided

Day 1

Arrive Zurich

Day 1

Arrive Zurich

To Be Determined

Private Transfer from the Zurich Airport

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Self Guided Visit to Zürich's West Bank

A wander around the West Bank of Zürich's Limmat River will help you experience the city's development over the centuries, from its iconic Fraumünster church, the rise of its famous banking industry around Paradeplatz, its associations with the Irish writer James Joyce, and its impact on modern sporting history at the FIFA World Football Museum.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Self Guided Tour of Zurich East Bank

Explore the environs of the left bank of the Limmat River in Zurich, including, for example, Grossmünster church where the Protestant Reformation found a receptive audience, as well as the modern artistic masterpieces housed in the Kunsthaus, before settling down to a traditional hearty cheese fondue somewhere along the pedestrianized Niederdorfstrasse.

Day 2

Zurich to Lucerne

Day 2

Zurich to Lucerne

Day 2

Zurich to Lucerne

Day 2

Zurich to Lucerne

9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Private Introductory tour of the Zurich Old Town

During this 2.5-hour private walking tour, you will learn how Switzerland became Switzerland, and why Zurich is its most populated and important city. The walk towards the lake will take you to the Lindenhof, where you will enjoy a marvelous view of the Limmat all the way over to the Grossmünster. From there you will head to the Fraumünster, passing by St. Peter's Church, which bears the biggest clock face in Europe. Passing by the side of the city's Grossmünster, you will walk from the Lake to the Niederdorfstrasse, where you will experience the focal point of Zurich's restaurants and bars.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Self-Guided Boat Trip on Lake Zurich

Leave the hubbub of the city behind and embark on a picturesque day trip from Zurich across Lake Zurich to discover the charming city of Rapperswil, renowned as the "City of Roses," where historic charm meets vibrant floral beauty on the shores of the lake. Immerse yourself in the city's rich culture, explore its medieval castle, and stroll through enchanting rose gardens for a delightful escape just a boat ride away from Zurich.

8:05 PM

Taxi Transfer to Zurich Main Rail Station

Zurich taxis are generally reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. If you are picked up one hour prior to departure, you should have plenty of time to catch your train.

21:10 - 21:51

Rail Journey Zurich to Lucerne

A Swiss Travel Pass for this scenic direct journey to Lucerne, that takes about 45m, is included with the purchase of an itinerary. Detailed directions and instructions that make the trip easy and stress-free are also included in the Full Itinerary.

9:51 PM

Arrival in Lucerne and Self-Arranged Taxi Transfer to Hotel

Upon arrival in Lucerne, you will exit the rail station and proceed to the taxi stand where you will find taxis waiting for arriving passengers. Taxis in Lucerne are generally reliable and honest and are less expensive than using a pre-arranged pick up service for your transfer to the hotel. Detailed arrival information and instructions for taking a taxi are provided in the Full-Length itinerary with the purchase of an itinerary.

Day 3

Lucerne

Day 3

Lucerne

Day 3

Lucerne

Day 3

Lucerne

Early Morning to Mid-Day

Self Guided Excursion to Mount Pilatus by Cog-Wheel Train

Ride the steepest rack-railway in the world at a gradient of nearly 48 percent from Alpnachstad up the giant mountain of Mt Pilatus that looms over the city of Lucerne, or glide up the other side on a gondola from Kriens. The highest point, Tomlishorn, with superlative views of Lake Lucerne, is only 30min on foot from the hotels and restaurants near the top.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Tour Lucerne's Old Town on the South Bank

Explore Lucerne's Old Town on the south bank of the Reuss River, including its iconic Chapel Bridge and Jesuit Church. Close to the station you'll also find two of Switzerland's many premier league art galleries, or the city's most relaxing lakeside park. An enjoyable short hike further south along the lakefront will lead you to the exquisite villa where the composer Richard Wagner spent his last years.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Explore Lucerne's Old Town on the North Bank

Wander the Old Town on the north side of the Reuss River and discover the intricately cobbled squares and exquisitely preserved architecture of the townhouses before walking along part of the fortified Musegg city walls from tower to tower. Further north of the river you'll come across the famously heart-rending sculpture of the Löwendenkmal (Lion Monument), built to commemorate Swiss soldiers who fought and died defending Louis XVI during the French Revolution.

Day 4

Lucerne to Salzburg

Day 4

Lucerne to Salzburg

Day 4

Lucerne to Salzburg

Day 4

Lucerne to Salzburg

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Private Walking Tour of Lucerne

During this 2 hour guided private tour you will take in all the major highlights of Lucerne including: Lion Monument, Chapel Bridge, the Old Town and the Jesuit Church. Your professional guide will tell you about the fascinating history of the town and why Lucerne is a favorite destination for the Swiss and foreign visitors alike. You will also enjoy stunning views around Lake Lucerne, especially of the city's mountain, Mount Pilatus.

12:35 PM

Taxi Rail Drop-Off at Lucerne Rail Station

Lucerne taxis are generally reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. If you are picked up one hour prior to departure, you should have plenty of time to catch your train.

13:35 - 14:25, 14:40 - 20:03

Rail to Salzburg

The first part of this six-and-a-half hour journey will take you to Zurich where you will need to change trains. In most cases, you will then board a RailJet, EuroCity or InterCity train from Zurich to Salzburg, which are modern and comfortable trains with air conditioning and usually a good wifi connection. This train ride will take you past the exquisite Swiss lakes of Zürichsee, Obersee, and Walensee before crossing the border into Austria. The train will then continue through the beautiful landscape of the Austrian states of Vorarlberg and Tyrol, and stop briefly in Innsbruck before finally arriving in Salzburg.

8:03 PM

Arrival and Transfer by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains arrive in Salzburg Main Station (Salzburg Hbf) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option, and buses pickup directly in front of the station. Taxis are available near the station entrance and are generally honest. Uber is also available for those with the app.

Day 5

Salzburg

Day 5

Salzburg

Day 5

Salzburg

Day 5

Salzburg

9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Guided Walking Tour of Salzburg

Salzburg is simply overwhelming in all the best ways. It is alive with fascinating history, grandiose and sublime architecture fills every street and square, culture and music permeate the atmosphere, and it is surrounded by breath-taking natural scenery. This guided tour with a local will provide the context needed to bring all of this beauty into perspective, and to connect the physical city to its history, culture, and environment.

Mid-Day

Visit to the Hohensalzburg Fortress

The Festung Hohensalzburg dominates Salzburg, appearing simultaneously formidable and enticing. From one side of the fortress you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and from the other a beautiful view of the nearby Alps. In addition to touring the fortress staterooms, you can also visit the Fortress Museum, a Marionette Museum, the Torture Chamber, an observation tower, and more.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Explore the Altstadt

Salzburg's Altstadt, which simply means Old Town, is one of the world's most charming city centers. It possesses an amazing wealth of Baroque buildings, as its 17th and 18th centuries archbishop rulers focused on beautifying their town rather than fighting foreign wars like neighboring states. A series of squares runs through the old town, and most you will find dominated by a beautiful church. Throughout the Altstadt, you will find markets, pleasant shops, and cozy restaurants.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Explore the Neustadt and Mirabell Palace Gardens

On the right bank of Salzach river lies the Neustadt (New Town). Although it may be just a bit newer than the Altstadt, it still boasts hundreds of years of history in it's winding and narrow Medieval lanes. The Mirabell Palace, a Baroque masterpiece built in 1606 by the Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg for his concubine, is the most famous site in the Neustadt. As impressive as the palace and its interior are, the elaborate gardens surrounding the palace are more famous than the palace itself.

Day 6

Salzburg to Munich

Day 6

Salzburg to Munich

Day 6

Salzburg to Munich

Day 6

Salzburg to Munich

Early Morning/Morning

Excursion to the Peak of the Untersberg

The nearly 6,000-foot high Untersberg is Salzburg's nearest Alpine Mountain, and a visit to its peak is the perfect way to experience the Alps without traveling too far. Don't worry, there's no need to bring your climbing gear. You can take a bus from Salzburg to the base of the mountain, and then take an exhilarating cable lift ride all the way to the limestone summit. There you will find a stupendous view of the Alps spread out before you, and if you feel like wandering a bit, a network of rocky trails spreads out from the summit. The Salzburg card covers both the bus ride to the lift (it's the last stop of bus line #25) and the cable car tickets!

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Visit the Hellbrunn Palace and Gardens

Built as a summer palace by Salzburg's Prince-Bishop, the Hellbrunn Palace is a picturesque palace surrounded by even more beautiful gardens. The early baroque palace was built exclusively for the purpose of entertainment, as the Prince-Bishop would actually return to Salzburg in the evening. It can be toured with an audio guide and includes several beautiful frescoed ceilings. There is a great deal to discover in the gardens - hidden grottos, clever statues, reflecting pools, as well as flora and fauna. And the trick fountains are a must for every visit. Both the transportation (bus #25) and the entry are covered by the Salzburg Card.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

The Mönchsberg & Augustinian Beer Hall

Although tiny in comparison to the mountains of the nearby Alps, the Mönchsberg (Monk’s Mountain) dominates the Altstadt. While the highest portion of the mountain is occupied by the Fortress Hohensalzburg, the rest of the mountain is covered by idyllic forests and pastures, romantic homes, and castle ruins. A stroll through this enchanting landscape also affords numerous beautiful views of Salzburg's Altstadt below. Perhaps best of all, it can all be enjoyed away from the crowds of the city. The Salzburg Card covers the cost of an elevator built into the side of mountain which will take you to the top!

5:00 PM

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains depart from Salzburg Main Station (Salzburg Hbf) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

18:00 - 19:38

Rail Journey from Salzburg to Munich

In most cases, the journey will be aboard one of Central Europe's nicest and most modern trains - the RailJet. The green countryside of Bavaria makes for a pleasant voyage. Unless the visibility is poor, on the left side of the train you should be able to see the Alps in the distance. Germany and Austria both speak German and share many cultural similarities. This is especially the case with Bavaria and Austria, so the transition over the border will not seem too dramatic, although if you keep your eyes peeled you will notice some minor differences.

7:38 PM

Arrival and Transfer by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains arrive in Müchen Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option - there is a subway and local rail station co-located with the train station. Taxis are available at all rail stations and are generally honest. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

Day 7

Munich

Day 7

Munich

Day 7

Munich

Day 7

Munich

9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Guided Walk Tour of Historic Munich

Munich contains many reminders of a long and varied history but also encompasses the modern features of a strong and vibrant city. The insights of a local help make sense of the traditions, trends, and promises of Bavaria's Capital - sometimes referred to as the city of laptops and lederhosen. On this tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Munich and point out the many hidden treasures.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

A Visit to Munich's Residence Palace

The Munich Residenz was the seat of Bavaria's Dukes and Kings from the middle ages until 1918. Originally a medieval castle, it was transformed over the centuries into a beautiful palace. Today it is open to the public and you can explore its magnificent interiors, numerous courtyards, and elegant garden. The living quarters of the royal family have been transformed into a museum which provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Kings and Queens. You can also peruse numerous jewels, gold objects, and other precious items which are held in the Residenz Schatzkammer (treasury).

Afternoon to Early Evening

Exploring Munich's Altstadt (i.e. the Old Town)

Munich boasts a large old town (Altstadt) with many beautiful historic buildings. Sometimes called the world's largest village, it is a perfect place to wander. You will discover many Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings, as well as several stunning examples of modern architecture. Pleasant cafes, beer halls, cozy restaurants, and great shopping all add to the charming atmosphere.

Early Evening/Evening

Visit to the Augustiner Keller

This vast beer garden under leafy chestnut trees is immensely popular with the locals, so you can study the lederhosen-clad men and dirndl attired women at close quarters while quaffing the Augustiner's own Edelstaff beer from your Maßkrug (one-liter glass beer mug) and wolfing down a plate stacked high with Bavarian sausage and mashed potato.

Day 8

Munich

Day 8

Munich

Day 8

Munich

Day 8

Munich

9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Guided Full-Day Private Excursion to Neuschwanstein Castle

Inspiration for the Disney Castles, numerous fairy tales, and countless dreamers, the castle of Neuschwanstein is perhaps the most famous castle in the world. Perched on a peak in the foothills of the Alps, the setting provides the perfect backdrop to the spiraling towers and turrets of the castle. On this full-day excursion, you will not only visit this amazing castle created by the eccentric Bavarian King Ludwig II, but also pick from a wide selection of optional activities.

Day 9

Munich

Day 9

Munich

Day 9

Munich

Day 9

Munich

Early Morning to Late Afternoon

Self Guided Excursion to Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Nestled in a magnificent setting at the foot of the Bavarian Alps, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is the German capital of summer hiking. The town has also been on the international winter-sports map ever since hosting the 1936 Winter Olympics. Once two different villages, Garmisch and Partenkirchen, the two halves of the town do show sharply contrasting characters: Garmisch is lively and international (in winter at least), while Partenkirchen better preserves its original Alpine charm. Perhaps the biggest draw for tourists is the opportunity to ride the famous Zugspitzbahn railway to Germany's tallest mountain, the Zugspitze.

Day 10

Depart Munich

Day 10

Depart Munich

Day 10

Depart Munich

Day 10

Depart Munich

To Be Determined

Transfer to Airport by Taxi or Train

Munich has one main airport, Munich International Airport, where almost all visitors depart. The most affordable and often fastest way to reach the airport is by train. The "S-bahn" local trains takes 40 minutes and leaves directly from the main station in central Munich (München hbf). Other regional trains to the airport depart from other stations in Munich, so you may have an even better departure option near your hotel. Your hotel can arrange a reliable taxi or if you have the app, Uber is also a good option. You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about 3 hours before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with a little over 2 hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.

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Peaks to Palaces: 10 Days in Switzerland, Germany, and Austria

10 Day Tour of Zurich, Lucerne, Salzburg and Munich

$3691

Secure Your Customizable Trip Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Craft Your Own Itinerary Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.

Trip Map & Itinerary

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Private Transfer from the Zurich Airport

Secure Your Customizable Trip
Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Craft Your Own Itinerary
Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.