The Best of Austria & Switzerland with Romantic Rhine 2027

Arrive in the imperial city of Vienna and settle into your comfortable hotel (Hilton Vienna or similar). In the evening, gather with your tour director and fellow travelers for a delightful welcome dinner at a local restaurant, setting the tone for your unforgettable journey through Central Europe. Enjoy your first taste of Austrian hospitality and cuisine as you prepare for the adventures ahead.

Immerse yourself in Vienna's rich heritage with a guided city tour, unveiling the grandeur of its iconic landmarks. Choose between exploring the opulent Schönbrunn Palace, where Baroque elegance and lush gardens await, or delving into the musical legacy of the Johann Strauss Museum. Enjoy the freedom to discover Vienna at your own pace in the evening, perhaps sampling local delicacies or strolling through the vibrant streets. Breakfast is included.

Depart Vienna and journey through the picturesque Austrian countryside to the charming lakeside town of Mondsee. Here, visit the beautiful Basilika St. Michael, famed for its role in 'The Sound of Music.' Continue to Salzburg, Mozart's birthplace, where a guided walking tour reveals the enchanting Mirabell Gardens, the impressive Great Festival Hall, and the historic Residenz Square. Enjoy breakfast as you travel through this storybook landscape.

Spend a leisurely day in Salzburg, a city renowned for its artistic and cultural treasures. Wander through the medieval and Baroque streets of the Old Town, visit museums, or sample local specialties like the delectable Salzburger Nockerl. Optional excursions are available for those seeking further exploration. Breakfast is provided as you soak in the Alpine charm of this musical city.

Travel from Salzburg to Innsbruck, where a guided stroll through the Old Town introduces you to the famed Golden Roof, a symbol of Tyrolean history. Cross into Switzerland and marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the Engadine Valley, a paradise of alpine lakes and meadows, as you make your way to the luxurious resort town of St. Moritz. Enjoy breakfast and dinner, and unwind in your elegant Swiss accommodation (Hotel Steffani or similar).

Enjoy a relaxed morning in St. Moritz before boarding the legendary Glacier Express. This iconic train journey offers panoramic views of Switzerland's most stunning landscapes as you travel to the car-free mountain village of Zermatt. Savor dinner on board while admiring the ever-changing alpine scenery. Breakfast and dinner are included, and your stay in Zermatt (Hotel Alex or similar) promises comfort and charm.

Experience the magic of Zermatt with a full day at leisure. Explore the charming, car-free village, or opt for an excursion to the Matterhorn Glacier, where panoramic vistas and alpine adventures await. Revel in the region's natural beauty and warm hospitality. Breakfast and dinner are provided, ensuring a relaxing and memorable stay.

Board a local train to Täsch and continue by coach to the enchanting Chillon Castle, perched on a rocky islet along Lake Geneva. Enjoy a guided tour of this medieval fortress followed by a delightful wine tasting. The journey continues to Bern, Switzerland's picturesque capital, where you will settle in for the night. Breakfast is included.

Begin your day with a guided walking tour of Bern, taking in panoramic views from the Rose Garden and exploring the UNESCO-listed Old Town, the ornate Zytglogge clock tower, and the Bear Park. En route to Lucerne, enjoy free time in the resort town of Interlaken before arriving in the lakeside city of Lucerne. Breakfast is served as you journey through Switzerland's heartland.

Discover the highlights of Lucerne on a guided walking tour, including the poignant Lion Monument and the iconic 14th-century Chapel Bridge. Enjoy free time to explore the city’s charming old town before embarking on a private panoramic cruise on Lake Lucerne, followed by a memorable farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Breakfast and dinner are included as you bid farewell to Switzerland’s alpine gem.

After breakfast, transfer from Lucerne to Basel to embark on your luxurious river cruise. Settle into your suite ship and enjoy a delicious dinner on board as you begin your journey along the Rhine. Spend your first night on the ship, ready to explore new destinations.

Begin your day in Breisach, gateway to the enchanting Black Forest. Choose between an invigorating e-bike tour through the forest, a guided visit to the Vogtsbauernhof Open-Air Museum with its traditional water mill and butter-making demonstration, or a tour of Freiburg’s medieval old town. Optional excursions include a visit to the picturesque French town of Colmar. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner on board as your ship sails to Kehl.

Arrive in Strasbourg and choose between a guided bike tour, a city sightseeing tour featuring the magnificent Gothic cathedral and the charming La Petite France district, or an excursion to the historic Maginot Line or Alsace’s renowned wine country. Enjoy free time to explore Strasbourg’s museums or vibrant city center before your ship continues to Ludwigshafen. All meals are included on board.

From Ludwigshafen, embark on a guided walk along Heidelberg’s scenic Philosophers’ Way, tour the imposing Heidelberg Castle with its legendary Great Vat, or visit the elegant Schwetzingen Palace and its beautiful gardens. Spend the afternoon cruising to Rüdesheim, enjoying the comfort and amenities of your river ship. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served on board.

In Rüdesheim, choose between a guided hike through the vineyards with a tasting of authentic Rüdesheimer coffee, a visit to the fascinating Mechanical Music Museum, or a wine tasting at Johannisberg Castle. Cruise through the dramatic Rhine Gorge, passing ancient castles and the legendary Lorelei Rock, before arriving in Koblenz. Enjoy free time in this historic city, followed by dinner and live entertainment on board. All meals are included.

Arrive in Cologne and choose between a guided bike ride, a walking tour of the city’s Jewish heritage sites, or a city walk featuring the awe-inspiring twin-spired cathedral. Enjoy free time to sample the local Kölsch beer and soak up the lively atmosphere before your ship sails onward. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Explore Amsterdam’s vibrant character with a guided walking tour through its cobblestone streets, a scenic canal cruise, or an early morning stroll with your Adventure Host. During tulip season, opt for a visit to the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens, or choose a countryside biking tour. Enjoy free time to discover the city’s galleries, shops, and colorful canal houses. All meals are provided on board.

Your extraordinary journey concludes in Amsterdam with a farewell breakfast. Bid adieu to your fellow travelers and depart with cherished memories of your multi-country adventure through Europe’s most captivating cities and landscapes.