Switzerland and Austria

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

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.

The enchanting landscapes of the UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley provide a picturesque backdrop for our leisurely drive past vineyards and fortresses en route to Salzburg. We see the impressive Benedictine Melk Abbey perched on a rocky outcrop above the Danube and learn about its royal connections. Arriving in Salzburg, we embark on a leisurely walking tour of its Old Town with a Local Specialist. Later, we travel to Faistenau where we will Connect With Locals on a farm just outside Salzburg. The Klaushofer family and their resident bees are your hosts for an exclusive Be My Guest experience and family dinner with delicious home-made cheese strudel.

Today, we visit the magical world of Swarovski Crystal. Later, head through the mountains to your Innsbruck hotel. Here you will have an opportunity to admire Emperor Maximilian I's Golden Roof, St. James Cathedral and see the Olympic ski jump. You could consider joining a traditional dinner and Tyrolean folklore show this evening.

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. You could choose to marvel at the fascinating crystal installations and browse for precious gifts and souvenirs at the Swarovski Crystal Worlds Store.

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

Drive via the Maloja Pass, past Lake Como, to Lake Maggiore. Explore the lakeside town of Stresa, before seeing the Borromean Islands. Then, head towards the Simplon Pass en route to Zermatt, where you will dine at your Stays with Stories hotel.

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.

We continue our journey through the Rhône Valley, arriving on the tranquil shores of Lake Geneva later today, where we will view Chillon Castle. We follow the lakeshore to Montreux, set against the pristine backdrop of snow-covered peaks and vineyards.

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.

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

We'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.

We say a fond farewell to Switzerland and our newfound friends at the end of an unforgettable journey.