Swiss Adventure with Germany & Italy: Lakes, Castles & Cultural Wonders

14 Day Tour of Munich, Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken and Milan

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Trip Map
Itinerary
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14 Days 13 Nights

Best Time: Jan-Dec

Nature Lovers

Cultural Exploration

Embark on a 14-day journey across Munich, Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, and Milan. You'll discover Switzerland's Alpine beauty while also visiting Bavaria's and Italy's capitals of culture. Enjoy private guided tours in each city's old town and take breathtaking excursions into the countryside in each country, such as a ride up the world's steepest cog-wheel train to Mt. Pilatus, a full-day trip to Lake Como, and a visit to the fairy-tale castle of Neuschwanstein. You'll savor the charm, sophistication, and historic beauty of these destinations with ease, thanks to the detailed itinerary and travel guidance provided through our mobile app.

Stroll Munich's historic center, enter the Residence Palace, and visit the famous Deutsches Museum.
Explore the simultaneously traditional & modern centers of Zurich and Lucerne.
Take scenic cruises on Lake Zurich & Lake Thun, enjoying views of mountains, forests, and pastures.
Venture to epic alpine peaks near Interlaken and ascend to the "Top of Europe" on the Jungfraujoch.
Visit Lake Como and discover rich artistry in the fashion capital Milan, including the Last Supper.

Stroll Munich's historic center, enter the Residence Palace, and visit the famous Deutsches Museum.
Explore the simultaneously traditional & modern centers of Zurich and Lucerne.
Take scenic cruises on Lake Zurich & Lake Thun, enjoying views of mountains, forests, and pastures.
Venture to epic alpine peaks near Interlaken and ascend to the "Top of Europe" on the Jungfraujoch.
Visit Lake Como and discover rich artistry in the fashion capital Milan, including the Last Supper.

Old Town

Architecture

Residence Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Fraumunster

Churches & Monasteries

Lake Zurich

Natural Beauty

Lake Lucerne

Natural Beauty

Old Town

Historic Landmarks

Unterseen

Small Towns

Interlaken Monastery & Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper

Museums & Galleries

Must see sights

Old Town

Architecture

Residence Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Fraumunster

Churches & Monasteries

Lake Zurich

Natural Beauty

Lake Lucerne

Natural Beauty

Old Town

Historic Landmarks

Unterseen

Small Towns

Interlaken Monastery & Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper

Museums & Galleries

Starting from

$4249

per person

4.8 (365 reviews)

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Day-By-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Munich

Day 1

Arrive Munich

To Be Determined

Arrival in Munich Airport and Transfer by Taxi or Train

Munich has one main airport, Munich International Airport, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience. The cheapest and fastest way to reach central Munich from is by train. The regional "S-bahn" trains delivers you from the airport train station (just follow the signs) directly to Munich's main station (München hbf) in the center of the city, from where you can easily hail a taxi that will be much less expensive than from the airport.

Day 1

Arrive Munich

To Be Determined:

Transfer from Airport

Mid-Day/Afternoon:

Deutsches Museum

Late Afternoon/Early Evening:

Residence Palace

Day 1

Arrive Munich

Day 1

Arrive Munich

To Be Determined

Arrival in Munich Airport and Transfer by Taxi or Train

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Visit to the Deutsches Museum

The Deutsches Museum (i.e., the German Museum) is the world's largest museum of science and technology. It is located on a small island in the River Isar, which flows through central Munich. The museum's vast and fascinating collection is spread out among 40 different exhibitions. You will encounter examples of technology stretching across humanity's long history, from a reproduction of pre-historic cave paintings to the laboratory where the atom was split.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

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).

Day 2

Munich

Day 2

Munich

Day 2

Munich

Day 2

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

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 3

Munich

Day 3

Munich

Day 3

Munich

Day 3

Munich

Early Morning to Late Afternoon

Self Guided Excursion to Neuschwanstein Castle

An inspiration for the Disney Castles, numerous fairy tales, and countless dreamers, the Castle of Neuschwanstein is perhaps the most famous castle in the world. The eccentric Bavarian King Ludwig II created this amazing palace in the 19th century as an idyllic version of a medieval castle. You can visit by taking a guided tour from Munich or traveling independently by train and bus. In addition to enjoying spectacular views you can take a guided tour of the castle interior which is well worth the experience (but keep in mind that there a lots of steps to negotiate). If traveling independentally, be sure to book your interior tour reservations at least two days in advance.

Early Evening/Evening

Dining out in Maxvorstadt

Maxvorstadt is not just Munich’s most central nightlife hotspot, it’s one of the most historically fascinating neighborhoods in all of Bavaria. The area is often called the “Brains of Munich” for its concentration of arts and education centers, including seven universities and several museums and galleries. It’s a lively spot from day to evening to be sure, with a diversity of cozy bars, restaurants, and cafes appealing to the large student population and foreign visitors.

Day 4

Munich to Zurich

Day 4

Munich to Zurich

Day 4

Munich to Zurich

Day 4

Munich to Zurich

7:55 AM

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport or Walk

Most trains depart from 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. 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.

08:55 - 12:57

Rail Journey to Zurich

Your journey should take about four hours in total. You'll travel on a modern and comfortable train with air conditioning and usually a good wifi connection. The train takes you through the beautiful Bavarian countryside before crossing the border into Switzerland and shortly arriving in Zurich.

12:57 PM

Arrival in Zurich and Self-Arranged Taxi Transfer to Hotel

Upon arrival in Zurich, you will exit the rail station and proceed to the taxi stand where you will find taxis waiting for arriving passengers. Taxis in Zurich are generally reliable and honest and are less expensive than using a pre-arranged pick up service for your transfer to the hotel. You can also use the Uber App if you have it installed on your phone. Detailed arrival information and instructions for taking a taxi are provided in the Full Itinerary.

2:15 PM - 4:45 PM

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.

Late Afternoon to 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 5

Zurich

Day 5

Zurich

Day 5

Zurich

Day 5

Zurich

Morning/Mid-Day

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.

Mid-Day to Late 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.

Early Evening/Evening

Dining Out in Zurich

Zürich naturally offers all the traditional Swiss dishes that you've heard of, like fondue (melted cheese in which you dip pieces of bread), raclette (melted cheese with potatoes, from Wallis), rösti (potatoes), Spätzli, and typical Swiss cervelat (a big sausage served with "Bürli," a piece of bread). Nevertheless, since it also is very multicultural, you can find food from a lot of foreign cultures as well.

Day 6

Zurich to Lucerne

Day 6

Zurich to Lucerne

Day 6

Zurich to Lucerne

Day 6

Zurich to Lucerne

1:05 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.

14:10 - 14:51

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.

2:51 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.

Early Evening/Evening

Dining Out in Lucerne

Lucerne affords some really interesting culinary options with a focus on homegrown, handmade and freshly foraged that help dispell the age-old notion that Swiss cuisine is only about chocolate-box cliches and high cholesterol counts resulting from heavy cheese-based dishes like fondue, rosti, and raclette. Make use of the list of our restaurant and cafe recommendations included in the Full Itinerary to treat yourself to an evening out on the town and discover real Swiss cooking at its best.

Day 7

Lucerne

Day 7

Lucerne

Day 7

Lucerne

Day 7

Lucerne

Morning to Afternoon

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.

Late Afternoon to Evening

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.

Day 8

Lucerne to Interlaken

Day 8

Lucerne to Interlaken

Day 8

Lucerne to Interlaken

Day 8

Lucerne to Interlaken

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.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

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.

5:05 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.

18:06 - 19:55

Journey from Lucerne to Interlaken by Rail

A Swiss Travel Pass for this scenic direct journey to Interlaken, that takes just under 2 hours, are 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.

7:55 PM

Rail Pickup by Taxi

Upon arrival in Interlaken, you will exit the rail station and proceed to the taxi stand where you will find taxis waiting for arriving passengers. Taxis in Interlaken 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 purchase of an itinerary.

Day 9

Interlaken

Day 9

Interlaken

Day 9

Interlaken

Day 9

Interlaken

Early Morning to Mid-Day

Lake Thun, Self-Guided

Surrounded by dazzling mountain scenery and a staccato of smart villages, Lake Thun is one of the two highly attractive waterways sandwiching the town of Interlaken that offers the opportunity of a relaxing boat ride from one end to the other. After disembarkation you can wander Thun's low-lying Old Town and its fairy-tale turreted castle before returning to Interlaken by train. Travel by boat and train is free with the Swiss Travel Pass included in your Full Itinerary.

Mid-Day to Late Afternoon

Self-Guided Excursion Up Harder Kulm

Travel by funicular from close to the Old Town in Interlaken to the Harder Kulm viewing platform at 1,322 meters above sea level from where you're able to soak up majestic panoramas of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, or admire the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. The castle-like the Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant sometimes hosts folk music and dancing. The hike down, should you choose to go that way, will take around one hour.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Self-Guided Tour of Interlaken's Historic Center

Although the overwhelming number of visitors to Interlaken come to the city to access the mountains throughout the Bernese Oberland in general and the Jungfrau region in particular, there are nevertheless a number of attractions in the town worth seeing, like the castle, the Unterseen (Old Town) district, and the Museum of Tourism.

Day 10

Interlaken

Day 10

Interlaken

Day 10

Interlaken

Day 10

Interlaken

Early Morning to Late Afternoon

Self-Guided Excursion up Jungfrau

Journey directly through the famous Eiger Mountain to what the Swiss called "The Top of Europe", the icy, windswept gap in the mountain ridges known as Jungfraujoch at 3,454m/11,332ft just below the summit of Jungfrau. The train ride to the top is not cheap, but it's the highest train station in Europe and definitely an unforgettable experience.

Day 11

Interlaken to Milan

Day 11

Interlaken to Milan

Day 11

Interlaken to Milan

Day 11

Interlaken to Milan

6:45 AM

Taxi Dropoff at Rail Station

Interlaken taxis are reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. If you are picked up 45 minutes prior to departure, you should have plenty of time to catch your train.

07:29 - 07:50, 08:05 - 10:37

Rail to Milan

The four and a half hour train journey between Interlaken and Milan will take you along the edge of Lake Thun in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland region, and then Lake Maggiore on the Italy - Switzerland border. Tickets and seat reservations are included with the purchase of an itinerary. You will receive detailed instructions for the trip, as well as a translation and explanation of your tickets.

10:37 AM

Arrival and Transfer by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains arrive in Milano Centrale 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. Taxis are available at all rail stations but some are known for taking advantage of tourists so you may want to agree on a price before getting into the taxi or choose public transport during peak hours when there may be heavy traffic if you want to save money. However, if you prefer the convenience of not carrying your bags on public transport, they are an option. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

Mid-Day

Visit the Duomo, Milan's Cathedral

The Duomo of Milan is the last of Italy's great Gothic structures. Standing proud in the spacious Piazza del Duomo, this behemoth church is one of the world's largest Gothic cathedrals, and by far the most visited sights in Milan for tourists. Step inside and visit its interior before climbing up its stairs or riding the elevator to its terraces, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Milan cityscape and spires up close. Note that entrance to the Duomo and Terraces are by paid admission only. During high season, we recommend purchasing advanced tickets to save you time in Milan.

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Best of Milan Private Walking Tour

Milan is the center of business and the capital of Italian fashion, but it also has an ancient heritage and a fascinating history; here you find some of the greatest masterpieces of Italian art! Together with your guide, you’ll explore the magnificent Duomo, Galleria, Scala opera house, merchant square, financial district, food street, and Sforza Castle.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Brera District & National Gallery

Brera is the artistic heart of the city. Its tightly-packed together cobbled lanes and ancient buildings are a reminder that Milan was not always the modern metropolis that it is today. At the heart of the neighborhood, you'll find the Pinotecca di Brera (National Gallery), home to Italy's biggest collection of paintings of the 15th & 16th century. Indeed, Brera has been synonymous with art ever since the romantic artists of the 19th century turned the quarter into a hub of Bohemianism. Around the gallery you'll find some of the city's most fashionable boutique shops, and a host of trendy bars and restaurants, making it an area to be seen when the sun sets.

Evening

The Navigli Canals

Although far from Italy's surrounding seas, Milan, much like Venice, was for many centuries a navigatable city due to an intricate system of canals. In their heyday, the Navigli canals formed a 100 mile (150 km) long network that connected the city with the rivers and lakes in the Lombardian region, including Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, the Ticino River and the Po River. Built between 1177 and 1257, the canals were primarily used for transporting goods, such as blocks of marble that were used to construct the city’s marvellous buildings. Today, little remains of its waterway history, but the first stretch of the Naviglio Grande can still be visited. It is now lined by canal-side cafes, making it one of the city's trendiest areas. The Navigli neighborhood as a whole was until recently a working-class district with a few rough edges, but now you'll find small boutique shops alongside popular pubs and excellent restaurants serving authentic Milanese cuisine. You'll also find plenty of outdoor bars perfect for a late afternoon aperitivo and numerous art studios and little galleries hidden amongst small courtyards and side streets. Sunset on the Naviglio is one of the most popular times to visit, therefore it may be wise to book a table ahead of time if you are planning on visiting in the summer seasons.

Day 12

Milan

Day 12

Milan

Day 12

Milan

Day 12

Milan

Early Morning to Mid-Day

Self Guided Excursion to Lake Como

Often cited as the most picturesque lake in Europe, Lake Como has enchanted artists and travelers for centuries and it's easy to see why. Tucked away in the foothills of the northern Italian Alps, Lake Como is the perfect day trip destination from Milan, offering the perfect chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Discover some of the picturesque lakeside villages, take a thrilling boat ride across the lake, or explore the many grand villas and beautiful gardens.

Day 13

Milan

Day 13

Milan

Day 13

Milan

Day 13

Milan

Morning/Mid-Day

In Da Vinci's Footsteps: The Last Supper & Surroundings

Preserved in the refectory (i.e. the dining hall) of the convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper is not only one of Milan's top attractions, but one of the most famous paintings in the world. Painted between 1494 and 1498, it depicts the last "dinner" between Jesus and his apostles. The painting shows the dramatic moment in which Christ reveals that he will be betrayed by one of the twelve apostles sitting at the table, as told in the Gospel of St John. A mandatory reservation has to be made either online or over the phone if you wish to visit The Last Supper. Reservations for each calendar month go on sale approximately 3 months in advance. Spots are very limited, so if you miss your chance, then the best bet is a guided tour which includes The Last Supper. With so much to learn about the painting, seeing it with an expert is a good idea in any case. The Last Supper of Leonardo da Vinci is undoubtedly one of the most important works of art of all time, but Milan is a city full of surprises and you'll find numerous other sights linked to the great artist just a short distance away.

2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Cultural Culinary Guided Walk in Milan

During your 3-hour food tour, walk along the food street and stop by a special deli, where the best Italian food is on display. Head to Eataly where you can see how Pasta, Ravioli, and bread are made by an important local Eataly Partner, in the morning you can also see how mozzarella and chocolate are made.

Day 14

Depart Milan

Day 14

Depart Milan

Day 14

Depart Milan

Day 14

Depart Milan

To Be Determined

Transfer to Airport by Taxi. Train or Bus

There are three main airports in Milan. You will likely depart from Malpensa although you may also depart from Milano Bergamo or Milano Linate if you are flying within Europe. The most affordable and fast way to reach Milan Malpensa airport is by train. The Malpensa Express train takes only 35 minutes and leaves directly from the main Centrale station in central Milan. The most affordable way to reach Milan Bergamo airport is by bus. The bus takes about 1 hour and leaves directly from Milano Centrale Train Station in central Milan. To reach Linate Airport you are best taking a taxi as it is only 10km from the city center. 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 4 hours before your departure time, you should arrive at the Malpensa or Bergamo airport with about 3 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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Swiss Adventure with Germany & Italy: Lakes, Castles & Cultural Wonders

14 Day Tour of Munich, Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken and Milan

$4249

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

Arrival in Munich Airport and Transfer by Taxi or Train

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.