Switzerland and Austria - 13 Days

Duration

13 Days

Difficulty
Balanced
Start

Vienna

End

Zurich

Rating

***

Operator

Trafalgar Tours

13-Day Tour to Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Zermatt and Zurich

Journey through Austria and Switzerland, combining famous cities with striking alpine scenery. Take in Vienna’s grand landmarks, explore Salzburg’s Old Town and visit Wastlbauer farm for a Be My Guest experience with the Filmoser family. See Innsbruck’s colourful streets, travel through the Engadine Valley to chic St. Moritz before strolling along Lucerne’s lakeside promenade. With iconic sights, authentic local encounters and easy connections between each destination, this is the ideal way to experience two of Europe’s most captivating countries in one trip...

Itinerary

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Day 1: Welcome to Vienna

Arrival Transfer: Depart the airport at 10:00, 13:00

Welcome: Meet your Travel Director at 16:30

Waltz your way through Vienna, the 'City of Music' - a fitting introduction to an unforgettable journey through some of Europe's most enchanting landscapes. This evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers for dinner.

Max Brown 5th District
Dinner

Day 2: Discover Artistic Vienna

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.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).     

Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens - EUR 71 pp

The Imperial Summer Palace of Schönbrunn offers an amazing journey through the centuries of Habsburg rule. It is perfectly preserved and richly decorated with treasures from around the globe. Each room has a story to tell, so of course, you’ll have a Local Specialist to bring it to life and to make the most of your time. 

Viennese Concert - EUR 74 pp

You’ll enjoy a wonderful concert of Viennese classical music including some of the most famous works of Strauss and Mozart, performed by some of the most highly acclaimed soloists and dancers in Austria. You’ll receive 'A Class' tickets and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine or juice during the interval. Please note: on occasion a small gift will be offered in place of a glass of sparkling wine.

Dinner And Viennese Concert - EUR 134 pp

A wonderful evening of all things Viennese! Enjoy a superb dinner with drinks, followed by a concert of Viennese classical music. With your 'A Class' tickets, you will experience works by Johann Strauss and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart performed in a classic, sumptuous setting.

Max Brown 5th District
Breakfast

Day 3: Off to Picturesque Salzburg

The enchanting landscapes of the Vienna Woods and Lower Austria provide a picturesque backdrop for your drive to Salzburg. See the impressive Benedictine Melk Abbey and learn about its royal connections. Arriving in Salzburg, embark on an enchanting walking tour of its Old Town with a Local Specialist. Later, travel to the Wastlbauer farm, just outside Salzburg, where you will Connect With Locals. You will be met by Eva Filmoser who is your host for an exclusive Be My Guest experience and family dinner.

Holiday Inn Salzburg City
Breakfast Dinner

Day 4: On to Innsbruck

Today, you'll drive into the mountains of Tyrol with a stop at the magical Swarovski Crystal World on your way to Innsbruck. Here you'll have an opportunity to admire Emperor Maximilian I's Golden Roof, St. James Cathedral and see the Olympic ski jump.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).       

Eagle's Nest & The Bavarian Alps - EUR 81 pp

In Berchtesgaden National Park, we'll drive with our Local Specialist past farmhouses and picturesque villages, as we ascend the Obersalzberg. We'll then transfer to special buses for the second leg of the journey, on a spectacular road that's been blasted out of the mountain side. Finally, we'll take an elevator to the Eagle's Nest, intended as a mountain retreat for Hitler and his inner circle. Once at the top, we'll learn its fascinating history and take in awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountain peaks, whilst enjoying a local refreshment!

Lake and Mountain Tour - EUR 53 pp

Today, with our Local Specialist, we'll marvel at the Alpine beauty of the Salzburg lake district, with its 76 glacier lakes and picturesque towns like Sankt Gilgen. We'll also have the chance to see some of the major backdrops for the film "The Sound of Music".

Grauer Bär Hotel Innsbruck
Breakfast

Day 5: Innsbruck Your Way

Spend your free time exploring Innsbruck's iconic sites and delving into Tyrol's complex history and culture, or simply relax and admire this dazzling city with its magnificent Alpine backdrop. 

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).      

Ski Jump and Strudel - EUR 70 pp

Come and experience the Tyrolean Alps from the launch pad of Innsbruck's iconic ski jump, one of the sites of the annual Four Hills Tournament. From the first Winter Youth Olympics onward, Innsbruck has staged three Winter Olympics – more than any other city. Continue to soak up Alpine scenery with our Local Specialist, immersing yourself in the region’s culinary culture with a strudel baking lesson. Don't worry - we won't leave without sampling the most famous cake of the Alpine region!

Grauer Bär Hotel Innsbruck
Breakfast

Day 6: Venture to St. Moritz

This morning, cross the Swiss border and travel through the enchanting landscapes of the Engadine Valley. Arriving in the chic winter sports resort of St. Moritz, you'll have the afternoon on your own to explore the scenic landscape or perhaps take the Bernina line train.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).        

Bernina Pass Discovery - CHF 101 pp

Board a train across the spectacular Bernina Pass, one of Switzerland's iconic rail routes. Our panoramic journey takes us to a local hostelry where you can indulge in a typical apéro of tasty snacks and vintages, a truly local experience!

Hotel Reine Victoria
Breakfast Dinner

Day 7: Journey to Lake Maggiore and on to Zermatt

Drive via the Maloja Pass, past Lake Como, to Lake Maggiore. Explore the lakeside town of Stresa, before perhaps joining an Optional Experience to discover the Borromean Islands? Then, head towards the Simplon Pass en-route to Zermatt, where you'll dine at your Stays with Stories hotel.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).       

Discover The Borromean Islands - EUR 69 pp

Take a private launch across Lake Maggiore to explore Isola Bella. Join a Local Specialist for a guided tour of the island’s Baroque palace and gardens, home to white peacocks, terraces and sweeping views across the lake. Look out to Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori as you uncover this Borromean gem. 

Ambassador Zermatt
Breakfast Dinner

Day 8: Zermatt Your Way

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.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).         

Klein Matterhorn Excursion - CHF 147 pp

A unique electric taxi service will drive us to the foot of Zermatt's highest and most spectacular mountain ride. You’ll enjoy stunning views as we ascend to Furi and Trockener Steg, before boarding Europe's highest cable car to 3883m (12,740ft) to view the magnificent snow-capped top of the world.

Zermatt Dinner Experience - CHF 101 pp

Discover the beautiful mountainous resort town of Zermatt. Afterwards, we'll enjoy a wonderful dinner in a typical chalet-style restaurant with an opportunity to try the world-famous raclette and fondue.

Ambassador Zermatt
Breakfast

Day 9: On to Lake Geneva and Montreux

Continue your journey through the Rhône Valley, arriving on the tranquil shores of Lake Geneva with a photo stop at Chillon Castle. Then, following the lake shore, continue to Montreux, set against the pristine backdrop of snow-covered peaks and vineyards.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).      

Chaplin's World and Lake Geneva Cruise - CHF 80 pp

Enjoy the palm trees on the shores of Lake Geneva from a romantic side-wheel paddle steamer as we cruise along the eastern shore of Lake Geneva. We’ll visit the Charlie Chaplin museum, set on the banks of the lake on his former estate, Manoir de Ban. Chaplin spent the last 23 years of his life here and you’ll discover all the facets of this incredible man's life. We'll see sets and props from his greatest movies and then finish with a peaceful walk in the gardens.

Lake Geneva Cruise with Meal - CHF 122 pp

Enjoy an unforgettable cruise on Lake Geneva. Lac Léman, as it is known to the locals, is one of Western Europe’s largest lakes and its waters meet the shores of both Switzerland and France. You’ll see picturesque villages and towns in both countries as well as the majestic Alps and, on clear days, Mont Blanc. A three-course meal will be served while you admire awe-inspiring Alpine scenery, dining on the specialities of the Vaud canton.

Mona Montreux
Breakfast

Day: 10 Cross the Brünig Pass to Lucerne

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.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).        

Swiss Folklore Evening with Dinner - CHF 120 pp

Tonight we’ll enjoy a tasty Swiss meal, including the famous Swiss cheese fondue, in a typical restaurant. While enjoying dinner, you can also join in a lively folklore show which includes yodelling, flag-throwing and Alpine horn-blowing. Two drinks are also included.

Maison Cailler - The History of Chocolate - CHF 50 pp

This morning, you’re off to Broc to visit Switzerland’s oldest chocolate maker, Cailler. Step into the museum and uncover the history of chocolate making before indulging in a delicious tasting. Take some time to browse for souvenirs and maybe treat yourself to a famous hot chocolate at the museum cafe.

Grand Hotel Europe Lucerne
Breakfast

Day 11: Lucerne Your Way

Snow-capped peaks surround you as you wander through the medieval streets of Lucerne, lined with colourful muralled facades. 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.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).      

Swiss Countryside & Carriages - CHF 83 pp

A chance to get to know the Swiss, you’ll meet local farmers and enjoy a delightful countryside tour in horse-drawn carriages. Soak up the stunning scenery as we trot around a typical rural community, en route to a local homestead where you’ll savour local drinks and snacks.

'Swisstainable' Mount Stanserhorn And Lake Cruise - CHF 131 pp

Take a scenic cruise with us across Lake Lucerne to Stans, and one of Switzerland's oldest mountain railways. Travelling by funicular and the world's first Cabrio cable car, we'll reach 1900m (6300ft), where you’ll have free time to admire the stunning Alpine scenery.

Grand Hotel Europe Lucerne
Breakfast

Day 12: Discover Cosmopolitan Zürich

You'll continue to Zürich to discover its historic centre including the Munster Bridge, Paradeplatz, Lindenhof Square and other enchanting locations. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience for a social-impact guided walking tour of the old town Zurich. This evening, toast to your epic journey over dinner with your fellow travellers.

Hyatt Place Zurich Airport The Circle/Hyatt Regency Zurich Airport The Circle (your hotel will be dependent on your departure date)
Breakfast Dinner

Day 13: Journey Home

Say a fond farewell to Switzerland and your newfound friends at the end of an unforgettable journey. Your final hotel is located at the airport, just a short walk from the terminal, so there’s no need to arrange a transfer.

Breakfast

Includes

  • 12 nights in handpicked 3 & 4 star hotels in great locations
  • Comfortable coaches with bathroom facilities (w/c)
  • 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
  • Porterage, plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
  • Meals as stated in the itinerary 

Excludes

  • Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
  • Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights
  • Driver & Tour Director gratuities - these can be pre-paid, please ask your reservations agent when booking your tour

Choose a Group Size / Service or Room Level

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Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?

A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.

The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.

For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.

The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice. 

Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.

YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.

CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.

What does the tour cost include?

The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.

Can i book flights through you?

Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines.

When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind. 

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for any flight requirements. 

You are, of course, welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.  

Can i add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?

Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.   

Can i book twin beds or triple/quad rooms?

Yes, we have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.

If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.

For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.

For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.

For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.

How much is the solo/single supplement?

Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement. 

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.

How many guests will be on this tour?

Trafalgar welcomes guests from all over the world to have an amazing, shared travel experience. While we can’t share details of who you’ll be travelling with and how many people are on your tour in advance of your tour, you can see our average group sizes below.  You’ll meet your group at your tour welcome when you start your trip.

Europe trips: An average of 40 to 45 guests and a maximum of 53

United States and Canada trips: A maximum of 52 guests

Australia and New Zealand trips: A maximum of 50 guests

Asia trips (except Sri Lanka): A maximum of 32 guests

Sri Lanka trips: A maximum of 48 guests

Africa trips: A maximum of 36 guests

Latin America trips: A maximum of 40 to 45 guests   

How much walking will be on this tour?

With your comfort in mind, Purely Escorted Tours assigns every tour an activity level. The activity level for your chosen tour is displayed in the tour introduction.

Leisurely: Tours will typically have 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs. 

Balanced: Tours typically have up to 1-3 miles of walking per day, which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs. 

Dynamic: These journeys can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills.   

Do your coaches have on-board wifi and bathroom faclilites?

Regardless of where in the world your tour visits, we do our best to ensure your coach is as comfortable as it can be. However, there can be differences depending on where in the world you're visiting:

Europe, North & South America, Australia & New Zealand trips:-

We pride ourselves on having the best-in-class fleet of fuel-efficient coaches. The high vantage point from your coach’s window means you can take in all the glorious scenery, whether it’s a vast rural landscape or an urban city centre. Facilities you’ll enjoy are:

  • Reclining seats
  • An on-board restroom
  • Charging points (please note that these are power points, and not USBs)
  • WiFi
  • Air-conditioning

Africa & Asia trips:-

Africa and Asia tour vehicles do not have Wi-Fi. On Asia trips, there are no onboard rest rooms, but we always ensure there are regular rest stops.

Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?

Gratuities are included at hotels and restaurants. And, you have the option to pre-pay your Travel Director and driver gratuities before you travel if you wish.  

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for you to pre-pay driver and tour director gratuities.

Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.

Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.

We suggest that your insurance covers the following:

  • Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
  • Loss or damage to your property and baggage
  • Loss of cash, credit cards etc
  • Medical costs and personal accidents

Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive. 

Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel. 

Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.

What does a guaranteed departure mean?

A guaranteed departure means the tour will operate no matter how many people are booked to travel on that departure. 

In the slim case that a guaranteed departure you are booked on has to be withdrawn due to unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid, or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.

What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?

Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.

Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.

Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:

Europe trips:

Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.

Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.

Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.

Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc. 

United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:

From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel. 

UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.   

USA trips incl transiting travellers: 

US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.

ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website. 

Canada trips:

Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.   

eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.

Rest of the World trips:

Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them. 

What if I have mobility issues?

Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.

What if I have food allergies?

Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.

You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.

How much luggage can I bring?

Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in). 

In addition guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).

Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.  

GBP £3,659.00 GBP £3,109.00 / Adult
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