The 13-Day Northern Italy, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia tour travels through the beautiful areas of the alps. Enjoy high cultural activities and breathtaking scenerary on this two week escorted tour.
The tour begins Italy in Lecco. Located on Italy’s Lake Como this is quaint town. From there you’ll enjoy a cruise to Bellagio also located on Lake Como.
Afterward, the tour travels from the Italian Lakes region to Lake Lugano in Swtizerland. Then continue to Lucerne.
The tour then continues to Austria. You’ll visit Innsbruck, Salburg, and Vienna. The tour itinerary includes cultural destinations including a performance of Mozart and Strauss.
Finally the tour reaches Slovenia. For the daily itinerary click here.
Highlights
Northern Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia Highlights
- A scenic cruise on spectacular Lake Como takes you to the exquisite village of Bellagio
- Admire the 14th century medieval Chapel Bridge, forming the centerpiece of Lucerne’s townscape
- Travel via the scenic Vorarlberg Mountains and Austria’s Tyrolean Alps to pristine Innsbruck
- Tour Salzburg, celebrated as Mozart’s birthplace and setting of The Sound of Music
- In Vienna, visit the impressive Schonbrunn Palace, summer residence of the Habsburg emperors
- Discover the medieval Old Town of Granz and learn about its history
- Embark on a city tour of Ljubljana, capital of Slovenia, and admire its beautiful architecture
- Visit Bled Castle, an imposing medieval fortress, perched atop a steep cliff above the picturesque lake
Tour Includes
- 11-nights First Class 4-star accommodations
- 2 nights Lecco
- 2 nights Lucerne
- 1 night Innsbruck
- 2 nights Salzburg
- 2 nights Vienna
- 2 nights Ljubljana
- Hotel taxes, fees, service charges and Italian city taxes
- Hotel porterage
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
- 17 meals: 11 breakfasts, 6 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Services of local guides in all major cities
- Entrance fees per itinerary
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring
Accommodations
Northern Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia Escorted Tour Accommodations
2 nights Lecco – NH Lecco Pontevecchio
This first class hotel overlooks the River Adda, part of the famous Lake Como.
2 nights Lucerne – Grand Europe Hotel
This first class hotel is situated in a prestigious location just a 5 minute drive from the city center.
1 night Innsbruck – Alphotel
This tourist class hotel is situated in the city of Innsbruck.
2 nights Salzburg – ARCOTEL Castellani
This first class hotel is located just outside the city center in a picturesque garden setting.
2 nights Vienna – Hilton Vienna Park
This deluxe hotel is situated adjacent to the popular Stadtpark in the heart of Vienna.
or Hotel Am Konzerthaus Vienna MGallery by Sofitel
This superior first class hotel is located nearby the Wiener Konzerthaus.
2 nights Ljubljana – Urban Boutique Hotel
This first class hotel is ideally located in the center of Ljubljana, within walking distance of many top attractions.
Optional Tours
Northern Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia Escorted Optional Excursions
Day 5 – Mount Pilatus Tour: $114
Ascend the world’s steepest cogwheel railway which winds up through lush meadows carpeted with Alpine flowers, past sparkling mountain streams and fascinating rock faces to Mt. Pilatus. After admiring splendid views of the Bernese Oberland and the snowcapped Swiss peaks from the summit at nearly 7000 feet, descend by aerial cableway and return to Lucerne.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
*From November to May and in the event of adverse weather, the cogwheel will be replaced by the aerial cable car.
Day 7 Austrian Alps & Sound of Music Tour: $49
Enjoy one of the most breathtaking drives to the Bavarian Alps stopping at Obersalzberg. During the Nazi regime, this area around Hitler’s Berghof became a second seat of government and headquarters besides Berlin. From your local expert you will hear about Hitler and the Eagle’s Nest. Then, continue with a drive on the famous Rossfeld panorama road offering spectacular views of the Bavarian and Austrian Alps. Afterwards, relive your favorite scenes from the Sound of Music movie with stops at various locations like Hellbrunn Palace, where the glass gazebo, setting for various scenes is located.
Approximate tour duration is 3 hours.
This tour is offered during April, May, late October and November when Eagle’s Nest Tour is not available due to late opening and early closing. Additionally, in the event of bad weather, this tour can be substituted for Eagle’s Nest Tour during June – September
Day 7 Eagle’s Nest Tour: $72
Excursion into the surrounding countryside of Salzburg to the ruins of Obersalzberg, once an important mountain retreat for senior Nazi SS officers and top party members. Transfer to special motor coaches adapted for the scenic mountain climb to Hitler’s notorious “Eagle’s Nest.” Ascending with the original elevator to the Kehlsteinhaus, you’ll see dramatic views of the snowcapped peaks. Afterwards, relive some of your favorite scenes from the movie “The Sound of Music” with views of various locations, like the gazebo in the gardens of Hellbrunn Palace.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
This tour will not operate in April, early May and November. In the event of inclement weather, the Eagle’s Nest will be closed and the optional will not operate.
Day 10 Mozart & Strauss Recital: $75
Experience a delightful evening of Viennese culture in the “City of Music.” Attend a recital featuring the classical masterpieces of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Johann Strauss, two of Vienna’s most famous citizens. The musicians will bring to life the passionate strains of Mozart, a child prodigy who blossomed into one of history’s greatest composers and Strauss, the Waltz King, who composed the Blue Danube, the world’s most famous waltz.
Approximate tour duration is 2.5 hours.
13-Day Northern Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia Daily Itinerary
Commencing in Lecco, Italy, nestled on the shores of Lake Como, the tour kicks off with a charming exploration of this quaint town. A delightful cruise takes you to Bellagio, another gem situated on the scenic Lake Como. Transitioning from the Italian Lakes region, the tour ventures to the serene Lake Lugano in Switzerland.
Continuing the adventure into Austria, the tour introduces you to the cultural delights of Innsbruck, Salzburg, and Vienna. Enrich the itinerary with cultural experiences, including a captivating performance showcasing the timeless works of Mozart and Strauss. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Alps. Experience the rich cultural tapestry of these European destinations on this carefully crafted two-week tour.
DAY 1, Thursday – Depart for Italy
Depart for Italy
DAY 2, Friday – Arrive in Milan, Transfer to Lecco
Welcome to Italy! Arrive in Milan and transfer to your hotel in the town of Lecco, with views over the exquisite Lake Como. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Your tour will begin with an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 6 PM, followed by a light dinner. We recommend that you select flights which arrive no later than 4 PM
Overnight: Lecco
Meals: Dinner
DAY 3, Saturday – Cross Lake Como to the Village of Bellagio
Today, embark on a scenic morning cruise on the lake to the charming village of Bellagio, “The Pearl” of Lake Como. Nestled amidst cypress groves, its earthy-colored buildings climb up from the lakeside promenade. Wander along the narrow streets and alleyways, lined with craft shops, boutiques and cafés. Or, visit some of the gorgeous gardens with manicured lawns and fountains at Villa Melzi or Villa Serbelloni. Return back to Lecco with time to experience the delights of this lakeside town with its spectacular mountain views
Overnight: Lecco
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4, Sunday – Lake Lugano, St. Gotthard Tunnel, Lucerne’s Old City
Travel this morning to Lugano in southern Switzerland’s Italian-speaking Ticino region, on the northern shore of glacial Lake Lugano. Its Swiss-Mediterranean mix of cultures is similar to Italy’s northern Lombardy region and reflected in its architecture. The palm trees give way to Alpine peaks and glaciers as you continue heading north traversing through the St. Gotthard Tunnel built under the Swiss Alps. On arrival in Lucerne, get acquainted with the lakeside Swiss city, on your walking tour to the sentimental Lion Monument, the 14th century Chapel Bridge and the cobbled streets of the well-preserved medieval Altstadt (Old Town). Tonight, dinner is at a local restaurant
Overnight: Lucerne
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 5, Monday – Full Day in Lucerne
The day is yours to independently discover Lucerne, in the heart of central Switzerland. Wander through the lively streets, and along the picturesque lakeshore, or shop for chocolates, and famous Swiss watches. Perhaps, join the optional tour to the summit of Mt. Pilatus. Ascend the world’s steepest cogwheel railway that winds up through lush meadows and mountain streams to nearly 7,000 feet. After time to admire the splendid panoramic views, descend by aerial cableway. Afternoon is at leisure to discover some of Lucerne’s fine shops and cafes
Optional: Mount Pilatus Tour
Overnight: Lucerne
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6, Tuesday – Liechtenstein en route to Innsbruck
Today on your way to Innsbruck, view the tiny storybook Principality of Liechtenstein and its capital Vaduz, a proud remnant of feudal Europe, sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria. Brief stop in Vaduz with free time. Afterward, continue to Innsbruck, capital of the Austrian Alps and check into the hotel. On the city tour this afternoon, stop at the Golden Roof, in the heart of historic Innsbruck and St. James Cathedral, a spectacular example of Baroque architecture. View the grand Imperial Palace, and famous Olympic ski jump. Tonight, dinner is at the hotel
Overnight: Innsbruck
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 7, Wednesday – Salzburg City Tour
Head to the city of Salzburg, nestled in the foothills of the Alps, surrounded by graceful domes. This Baroque jewel is celebrated as the birthplace of Mozart and well-known as the setting of the movie, The Sound of Music. A guided walking tour takes you to the house where Mozart was born as well as to the city’s charming squares and Mirabell gardens. The remainder of the day is free, or join the optional excursion into the surrounding countryside to the ruins of Obersalzberg, once a mountain retreat for senior Nazi SS officers. Then, ascend to Hitler’s notorious “Eagle’s Nest” hideaway*
*The Eagle’s Nest Tour and Austrian Alps & Sound of Music Tour operate simultaneously. Passengers may opt to participate in only one of these tours
Optional: Eagle’s Nest Tour (PM)
Optional: Austrian Alps & Sound of Music Tour (PM)
Overnight: Salzburg
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8, Thursday – Full Day in Salzburg
Spend the day at leisure in beautiful Salzburg to further explore the city. Perhaps, head to Hohensalzburg Fortress located on top of the Festungsberg Hill, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area, or shop for souvenirs in famous Getreidegasse. Tonight, dinner is at a local restaurant
Overnight: Salzburg
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 9, Friday – Travel to Imperial Vienna
Today, travel to Vienna, the magnificent Austrian capital and former center of the Habsburg Empire. This sparkling city on the Danube has captivated travelers for years with its elegant shops, world-class museums, beautiful parks and gardens. Arrive in Vienna in the afternoon and check into your hotel. Tonight, savor dinner at a unique Viennese tavern
Overnight: Vienna
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 10, Saturday – Explore Vienna
Begin today’s tour at the impressive Schonbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg emperors. Visit the opulent Baroque apartments and stroll through the manicured gardens. Continue with a drive along Ringstrasse, Vienna’s main boulevard. View the Empress Maria Theresa Monument, Votive Church, City Hall, Parliament, Hofburg Palace and the State Opera House. Balance of the day is at leisure. Tonight, experience a not to be missed optional Classical Viennese Recital performance of the masterpieces of Mozart and Strauss
Optional: Mozart and Strauss Recital (PM)
Overnight: Vienna
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 11, Sunsday – Graz, Ljubljana City Tour
Depart Vienna this morning, and travel south towards Ljubljana. Along the way, visit the city of Graz, capital of Styria. During your walk through the Old Town, view Hauptplatz Square, Opera House, Clock Tower and Graz Cathedral. Afterward, spend some free time before crossing into Slovenia this afternoon. Arrive in Ljubljana and embark on a city tour. View its open-air market, the Baroque Venetian inspired City Hall, Robba Fountain, the Triple Bridge, which connects the old and new cities and the Parliament. Later, check into your hotel
Overnight: Ljubljana
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 12, Monday – Visit Bled Island & Bled Castle
Begin the day with a drive to the resort town of Bled. Head to the lake to board a pletna, a traditional rowing boat for a visit to Bled Island and its church, home to a wonderful art collection. Later, explore the imposing 11th century Bled Castle, perched on a steep cliff high above the lake, creating a dramatic backdrop to the city. Stroll through the castle grounds and visit the museum to gain insight into the history of the castle and the surrounding area. In the afternoon, return to Ljubljana. Tonight, enjoy a traditional Slovenian dinner and bid farewell to your Tour Manager
Overnight: Ljubljana
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 13, Tuersday – Depart Slovenia
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
