Discover spectacular Switzerland, Austria and Bavaria on a tour featuring four-night stays in two cities.

Arrive in Bern, Switzerland’s charming capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture, Bern feels beautifully preserved in time. As arrival times will vary, there is no scheduled sightseeing today. Spend the day as you wish, exploring the city independently. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner featuring local cuisine. (D)

Enjoy a panoramic sightseeing tour of Bern with a local guide. Highlights include the Bundeshaus (the Swiss Parliament), the famous Bear Pit, the Rose Gardens, and the soaring Gothic cathedral that crowns Old Town’s skyline. The afternoon is free to explore independently. Perhaps you’ll take a ride on the Gurtenbahn funicular, climbing Gurten Mountain to an altitude of 2,574 feet (858 meters) for sweeping views of the city and the surrounding countryside. (B)

Travel to Habkern, a postcard-perfect mountain village near Interlaken. Visit a local workshop to learn how the alphorn is crafted, and enjoy a lively yodeling demonstration led by a professional performer. Cap off the experience with a fondue lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Bern for a leisurely afternoon. (B, L)

Set out for Lucerne, often called the “Swiss Paradise on the Lake.” Join a guided walking tour of Altstadt featuring the covered Chapel Bridge, the famous Water Tower, the Renaissance-style Town Hall, and the Lion Monument, carved from natural rock to commemorate the heroic Swiss Guard. Enjoy your free time exploring this magnificent city, or perhaps choose an optional tour to the legendary Mount Pilatus. Return to Bern this evening for dinner at one of the city’s renowned restaurants. (B, D)

Available Option
Mount Pilatus
Enjoy the splendor of pure nature while gliding over a clear landscape in panoramic gondolas and spectacular cable cars. Ascend Pilatus via a unique excursion on the steepest railway of the world with a gradient of 48%. Upon arrival at the top, soak in the magnificent Alpine view from 7000 feet above sea level. During leisure time at the summit, stroll the walkway for views from a different vantage point, or enjoy Swiss culinary delights on your own in one of the various restaurants (lunch is not included). Return back down the mountain by panoramic gondola for yet another bird’s eye view.

In the off-season (November to mid-May), the cogwheel train is unavailable, and both the ascent and descent will be by panoramic gondolas and aerial cableway. The option may be cancelled due to maintenance work or inclement weather.

The optional excursion to Mount Pilatus reaches elevation of approximately 7.000 feet (2.100 meters) above sea level. Temperatures at the summit can be cooler than in the valley, and the higher elevation may feel noticeable.

En route to Innsbruck, make your way through Liechtenstein, the world’s smallest German-speaking country and the only European country to lie entirely within the Alps. Spend some time in Vaduz, strolling through the charming old quarter and along the pedestrian-friendly Stadtle , referred to as “small town” by the locals. Continue into Austria and arrive in Innsbruck, nestled in the heart of the Alps. The afternoon is free to settle in and explore. (B)

This morning, it’s your choice! Join a guided walk highlighting Innsbruck’s history and landmarks, including Maria-Theresien-Strasse, the Hofburg, and the “Golden Roof” -OR- you may embark on a tour to the Nordkette, Innsbruck’s stunning mountain range, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking alpine views and experience the dramatic scenery that rises directly from the heart of the city. Enjoy a free afternoon in this charming town or perhaps you’ll choose to join an optional tour to the alpine village of Seefeld. This evening, delight in a Tyrolean folklore show,* hosted by a well-known local musical family. (B)

Available Option
Spectacular Seefeld and Country Cottage Visit
How better to spend a free day than visiting the romantic Alpine village of Seefeld. Beautifully situated at 3,600 feet above sea level, this charming Tyrolean town commands breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. Known as one of the world’s greatest ski resorts, Seefeld offers a relaxed atmosphere in an Alpine setting with miles of trails for walking, lakes, fine shopping, dining possibilities, and fresh, Alpine air. After arriving by train, enjoy a glass of schnapps and a traditional horse and buggy ride. While at the small country home, learn how to make your own apple strudel and indulge in the chance to sample one of Austria’s famous sweets!

Travel through scenic countryside to Salzburg. Discover the city on a walking tour featuring Mirabell Gardens, the quaint Getreidegasse (Mozart’s birthplace), and other highlights of this Baroque jewel. Enjoy lunch at a legendary 1,200-year-old St. Peter’s Restaurant, the oldest in Austria and still owned by the monks. (B, LO)

Cross into Bavaria to tour Linderhof Palace, the only palace — out of three — that King Ludwig II lived to see completed. With an expert guide, explore its lavish interiors inspired by Versailles. Continue to Ettal Abbey** — a Benedictine monastery founded in 1330, where you’ll tour the Basilica and enjoy a brewery visit with tastings. Return to Innsbruck for a farewell dinner at a traditional Tyrolean restaurant. (B, D)

Your tour comes to an end in Innsbruck.