Come immerse yourself in the unique culture and rich history of Switzerland, Austria, Liechtenstein, and Germany as we experience some of Europe’s most picturesque landscapes. This tour has it all...from historic cities and storybook like castles to some of the world’s most scenic vistas. The dramatic landscapes are sure to take your breath away during this Alpine adventure.
DAYS 1-2—WELCOME TO SWITZERLAND!
After an overnight flight, we arrive in the Land of Milk and Honey for a delicious welcome dinner at our hotel in Chavannes de Bogis. D
DAY 3—LAKE GENEVA CRUISE
Today we experience a scenic Lake Geneva cruise to visit the cities of Geneva, Montreux, and Lausanne. Look in awe at the harbors, castles, vineyards, and snowy peaks of the Swiss and Savoyard Alps. B, D
DAY 4—CHOCOLATE FACTORY/GLACIER 3000
Immerse your senses into the wonderful world of chocolate at the Chocolate Factory in Broc today. Discover mysterious Aztec cocoa ceremonies and learn exciting stories from the life of François-Louis Cailler, the founder of the Cailler brand. This afternoon, Glacier 3000 awaits. Ride in the cable car from the Col du Pillon to Scex Rouge experiencing breathtaking panoramic views of the Swiss Mountains. Conclude the day by traveling to Gstaad, a car-free village lined with numerous exclusive shops and restaurants. B, D
DAY 5—LAKE THUN/BALLENBERG OPEN AIR MUSEUM
Travel to glistening Lake Thun, one of the largest lakes in Switzerland, for picture-perfect views. Then, we’re off to Interlaken to experience the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum. Our time here will include an educational look at Swiss culture, along with rest and relaxation in the beautiful scenery. Next, we’ll visit the impressive Aare Gorge before heading back to our hotel in the Bernese Oberland for dinner. B, D
DAY 6—LUCERNE/LIECHTENSTEIN
Following breakfast, travel up Mount Pilatus before continuing to the picturesque city of Lucerne, one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland, for a visit to Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument. As we journey to Austria, we’ll stop and pay a visit to Liechtenstein, a small sovereign state between Switzerland and Austria. B, D
DAY 7—LAKE CONSTANCE/FLOWER ISLAND
This morning we will ferry to Constance to stroll through the historic old town and marvel at the romantic alleys and picturesque harbor. Next, we’re off to Flower Island of Mainau. Here we will enjoy the lush splendor of flowers, beautiful gardens, tropical greenhouses, the flower water staircase, the palm and butterfly house, the baroque castle, and much more. Continue to St. Gallen in the afternoon where we’ll visit the Abbey Library before dinner. B, D
DAY 8—FELDKIRCH/INNSBRUCK
After breakfast visit Feldkirch, an enchanting old town with medieval arcades and winding streets. Continue to Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol nestled scenically at the foot of the Northern Chain Mountains. See impressive highlights on the guided city tour including the Hofkirche, the iconic Golden Roof, and the Swarovski Crystal world shop. We continue to our hotel and check into the Hotel Kirchenwirt in Reith im Alpbachtal for the next four nights. B, D
DAY 9—ZILLER VALLEY STEAM TRAIN/LAKE ACHEN
Today we ride on the nostalgic Ziller Valley steam train from Jenbach to Mayrhofen and enjoy some schnapps and folk music along the way. Continue to Lake Achensee, where we’ll take a boat trip and marvel at the vibrant landscapes lying between two mighty mountain ranges. Continue to the beautiful Gramaital for time on the sun terrace of the Almgasthof and enjoy homemade “Kaiserschmarrn” (a sweet pancake dish). After dinner, a local “Tyrolean Show” with traditional music and dance awaits you! B, D
DAY 10—SALZBURG/THE SOUND OF MUSIC
Enjoy a delightful drive through the Alps to the city of Salzburg, home of The Sound of Music and birthplace of Mozart. Take a guided tour around one of the most beautiful cities in Austria to see the filming spots of The Sound of Music and Mozart’s Birthplace Museum. B, D
DAY 11—BREAKFAST IN HOME/STEAM TRAIN
A warm and delicious treat greets us this morning as we enjoy breakfast in a typical farm home in the valley of Reith im Alpbachtal. Then, we ride aboard a legendary steam train from Prien station down to the port of Prien/Stock. Embark on a journey back in time as you take a seat in the original lounge car and listen to the puffing of the steam locomotive before you continue by boat to the Herreninsel. Visit Herrenchiemsee Palace, built in 1878 by King Ludwig II. The palace was never completed but was intended to be a replica of the Palace of Versailles. B, D
DAY 12—FLY HOME FROM MUNICH
Transfer to the Munich airport with exciting memories and new friends. B
Quality Accommodations
Nights 2-3: Everness Hotel & Resort, Chavannes de Bogis
Nights 4-5: Hotel Simmenhof, Lenk
Nights 6-7: Night Inn, Feldkirch
Nights 8-11: Hotel Kirchenwirt, Reith im Alpbachtal
Dates:
Aug 27-Sep 7, 2024
Price Per Person:
Double $5,797
Single $6,165
Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
$218/night
Depart/Return:
Chicago, IL
Inclusions:
Round-trip airfare from the U.S.
Professional, English speaking Tour Director
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Schedule your flight to arrive into Chicago O’Hare Int’l Airport by 11:00 a.m. on Day 1.
Departure Time
Schedule your flight home to depart Chicago O’Hare Int’l Airport any time after 9:00 p.m. on Day 12.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our pre and post hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to and from Chicago O’Hare International Airport. Free parking is offered during the tour at our hotel in Chicago with a pre or post night booked.
Walking Distance
To fully enjoy your CTD vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace for a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, many US and European airports require lengthy walks to get from ticketing counters to your departure gate. Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
We are finding that larger European cities are closing their historic districts to motor traffic. This, of course, adds to the amount of walking involved when visiting a city (sometimes on uneven and/or cobblestone walkways). In addition, you should know that you may be required to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law often does not allow travelers to remain on the motorcoach while it is parked for a scheduled stop.
Average Temps
August – high of 76°, low of 56°
September – high of 72°, low of 50°
Currency
Swiss Franc & Euro
Time Zone
GMT+2 (6 hours ahead of New York)
Hotel Amenities
Hair dryers, TV/cable, telephone, and spa services are available.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
A valid US Passport is required for travel to/from the United States.
Land Tours begin one day later. Airport transfers are not included with Land Only Tours.
Dress on tour is casual.
Travel Protection Available
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
