Custom Trip Plan
Destinations

Trip Ideas
Itineraries
Themes
Travel Styles
About Us

1 800 344 5785

Swiss & Austrian Alpine Odyssey

9 Days / 8 Nights

Lucerne, Zurich, Innsbruck, Salzburg

from$4,050 per person

Travel and LeisureFodorsUSA TodayNew York TimesNational GeographicWashington PostVogue

Switzerland and Austria hide several of Europe's best-kept secrets, and this itinerary is your ticket to unveiling some of the most dazzling among them. Your journey starts in Lucerne, a quaint Swiss city, renowned for its postcard-perfect Old Town. After a short yet sweet stop in Zurich, it's Austria's turn to amaze you with its wonders. In Innsbruck, you'll be taken aback by the fantastic landscape that harmoniously combines the majestic mountains with the bijou town before you end your trip in the City of Music. The birthplace of Mozart and the filming location for one of the most emblematic films, The Sound of Music, Salzburg sets the scene for the most beautiful farewell.

One of our team members in Switzerland will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these two countries have to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon request, we will provide you with an eSIM with data that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact (whom you will meet in person) throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3- to 5-star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambiance.

Route for Lucerne, Zurich, Innsbruck, Salzburg tour

3 Nights in Lucerne

3 Nights in Lucerne

4 days in Lucerne
4 days in Lucerne

3 Nights in Lucerne

If you only have time for one spot in central Switzerland, make it Lucerne. This charming lakeside town offers a memorable mountain panorama. The town's standout landmark is the 12th century Chapel Bridge (Europe's oldest covered bridge), which runs past the unique octagonal Water Tower. Visitors also tend to make a beeline for the Lion Monument, carved into a cliff, which commemorates the Swiss Guards who sacrificed their lives for the royal family during the French Revolution. Make sure to stop by the lesser-known covered Spreuer Bridge, with its Danse Macabre plaques. If you're fond of classical music, you're more than in luck, as the city offers frequent performances.

If you only have time for one spot in central Switzerland, make it Lucerne. This charming lakeside town offers a memorable mountain panorama. The town's standout landmark is the 12th century Chapel Bridge (Europe's oldest covered bridge), which runs past the unique octagonal Water Tower. Visitors also tend to make a beeline for the Lion Monument, carved into a cliff, which commemorates the Swiss Guards who sacrificed their lives for the royal family during the French Revolution. Make sure to stop by the lesser-known covered Spreuer Bridge, with its Danse Macabre plaques. If you're fond of classical music, you're more than in luck, as the city offers frequent performances.

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Lucerne

Upon your arrival at Zurich's airport, a driver will pick you up and take you to your accommodations in Lucerne, after an hour's drive.

Lucerne, Love, and Luxury

Suggestion to explore on your own

Lucerne's breathtaking beauty truly sets it apart as one of the world’s most enchanting cities. After checking into your accommodations, immerse yourself in its charm by taking a leisurely walk through the Old Town and across the picturesque Chapel Bridge. If you're up for a bit more adventure, climb the Musegg Wall for stunning views of the city and its scenic surroundings. To cap off your day, savor an aperitif or enjoy a traditional fondue, a local specialty. For an exceptional dining experience, consider the Schiff or Fondue House Du Pont restaurants.

Lucerne, Love, and Luxury

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Lucerne

Lucerne Private Walking Tour

Lucerne Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Discover the fascinating abundant heritage of Lucerne. Simply being there gives the feeling of being trapped in time, but strolling the streets and hearing true medieval stories from a local guide will definitely take you back to the 14th and 15th centuries. Eager to hear some recent history, art and culture? Your private guide is on top of these topics as well.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 2 hours

Be Trendy, Go Local

Suggestion to explore on your own

Every iconic place has its intriguing past, and Lucerne's trendy Bruch neighborhood is no exception. Once the site of a bustling cattle market from 1912 to 1971, Bruchstrasse was known for its lively trading and less-than-pleasant conditions. The market's closure marked a transformation, and today, Bruch is celebrated for its chic shops, vibrant restaurants, cozy cafés, lively bars, and eclectic art galleries. Just 2 km (1.25 miles) from the city center, you'll also find the Neubad Cultural Center, a unique venue housed in a repurposed indoor pool. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM, Neubad offers a mix of bistro dining, a bar, and a concert and music hall within its original pool space.

Be Trendy, Go Local

Day 3

Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Lucerne

Mt. Pilatus Self-Guided Tour

Mt. Pilatus Self-Guided Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

This self-guided tour takes you up to Mt. Pilatus, 2,132m (7,000 feet) above sea level, with stunning views of the Swiss plain and the Alps. In summer, you’ll likely start with a boat ride on Lake Lucerne, then ride the world’s steepest cogwheel train, and return by cableway and gondola. In winter, you'll take a bus to Kriens, followed by a gondola and cableway to the summit, returning the same way. Tickets and transport are all arranged, ensuring a seamless journey with breathtaking views year-round.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 6 hours

Just a Little Gambling

Suggestion to explore on your own

You don’t need to place a bet at the Grand Casino Lucerne to enjoy yourself, though a small wager on a spin or a hand of cards can certainly add a thrill. The Grand Casino also houses the elegant Olivo restaurant, a Neo-Baroque concert hall, a theater, and a vibrant club, offering plenty of ways to spend your evening. For those inclined to gamble, there are 250 slot machines with impressive jackpots, along with classic table games like American roulette, blackjack, punto banco, and poker, inviting you to dive into a world of excitement and entertainment.

Just a Little Gambling

Day 4

Day 4 - Traveling to Zurich by Train

Today you'll head to Zurich. Your driver will pick you up from your accommodations and take you to Lucerne's train station. We have included second class train tickets, but you can upgrade to first class for an extra fee. The journey takes about an hour.

Zurich by Train

You can upgrade your transfer

Upgrade to Zurich by Private Transfer

Zurich by Private Transfer

Upgrade for an additional cost
We also offer the following excursions in Lucerne

Bernese Oberland Pick and Mix Private Tour
Moderate10 hours
Bernese Oberland and Jungfrau Private Tour
Moderate10 hours
Chocolate, Mountains, and Medieval Towns Private Tour
Moderate8-9 hours
City and Fondue Private Tuk-Tuk Tour
Easy1 hour 30 minutes

1 Night in Zurich

1 Night in Zurich

2 days in Zurich
2 days in Zurich

1 Night in Zurich

Switzerland's largest city and main hub, Zurich is where many of the nation's bankers and scholars bump shoulders. This cosmopolitan city ranks highly in terms of livability, but for all its wealth and global prestige, the Old Town remains charming, if almost spotless. The ridges flanking Zurich's river valley offer romantic views, but the best way to hit the ground running in Zurich is to follow the river itself as it cuts through the Old Town, then meets Lake Zurich. Along the way, indulge in detours, from upscale chocolatiers to low-stress beaches.

Switzerland's largest city and main hub, Zurich is where many of the nation's bankers and scholars bump shoulders. This cosmopolitan city ranks highly in terms of livability, but for all its wealth and global prestige, the Old Town remains charming, if almost spotless. The ridges flanking Zurich's river valley offer romantic views, but the best way to hit the ground running in Zurich is to follow the river itself as it cuts through the Old Town, then meets Lake Zurich. Along the way, indulge in detours, from upscale chocolatiers to low-stress beaches.

Day 4

Day 4 - Arrival in Zurich

Upon your arrival to Zurich's main train station, you'll be picked up by a driver and taken to your accommodations.

Zurich Private Walking Tour

Zurich Private Walking Tour

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

Grab the opportunity to discover Zurich with a private guide, exploring the city and your related interests at your preferred pace. Visit the major sights or ask for special route and sights so you can get a glimpse behind the scenes, or just rely on your professional local guide, who will undoubtedly ease your appetite for history tidbits, spoil your eyes with architectural highlights, and answer all your questions about Zurich.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 2 hours

Day 5

Day 5 - Traveling to Innsbruck by Train

Today you're off to Innsbruck! We'll arrange for our driver to pick you up from your accommodations and take you to Innsbruck's main train station, for your departing train. We included Standard Class tickets for this journey, which should take a little over three hours. An upgrade to the first class is available for an additional fee.

Innsbruck by Train

You can upgrade your transfer

Upgrade to Innsbruck by Private Transfer

Innsbruck by Private Transfer

Upgrade for an additional cost
We also offer the following excursions in Zurich

Bernese Oberland Pick and Mix Private Tour
Moderate10 hours
Bernese Oberland and Jungfrau Private Tour
Moderate10 hours
Chocolate, Mountains and Medieval Towns Private Tour
Moderate8-9 hours
Lake Lucerne Mix and Pick Private Tour
Moderate8-9 hours

2 Nights in Innsbruck

2 Nights in Innsbruck

3 days in Innsbruck
3 days in Innsbruck

2 Nights in Innsbruck

Having hosted several Olympics, Innsbruck has an international reputation as a winter sports destination. Nestled in an alpine valley, the city is surrounded by picturesque mountains complete with ski slopes and funiculars. Whether you’re there in the winter or summer, you can have an active vacation in the mountains. In the town itself, you’ll find charming cobblestone streets, winding alleyways, quaint cafes and welcoming restaurants serving hearty Tyrolean cuisine. Innsbruck is a unique destination that combines breathtaking natural scenery with a comfortable, small-town feel. There’s a mix of Imperial Austrian architecture and newer creations, so just strolling the streets offers a feast for the eyes. The restaurants here are also wonderful, with a variety of cuisines ranging from traditional to contemporary with a youthful edge, thanks to its many students. Innsbruck is a place where you can really unwind and enjoy your vacation at your own pace.

Having hosted several Olympics, Innsbruck has an international reputation as a winter sports destination. Nestled in an alpine valley, the city is surrounded by picturesque mountains complete with ski slopes and funiculars. Whether you’re there in the winter or summer, you can have an active vacation in the mountains. In the town itself, you’ll find charming cobblestone streets, winding alleyways, quaint cafes and welcoming restaurants serving hearty Tyrolean cuisine. Innsbruck is a unique destination that combines breathtaking natural scenery with a comfortable, small-town feel. There’s a mix of Imperial Austrian architecture and newer creations, so just strolling the streets offers a feast for the eyes. The restaurants here are also wonderful, with a variety of cuisines ranging from traditional to contemporary with a youthful edge, thanks to its many students. Innsbruck is a place where you can really unwind and enjoy your vacation at your own pace.

Day 5

Day 5 - Arrival in Innsbruck

A driver will greet you at the train station and take you to your accommodation in the center of Innsbruck.

Tyrolean Evening Show

Tyrolean Evening Show

Included in your vacation package price.

If you want a memorable introduction to Tyrolean culture, visit one of the Gundolf family's Tyrolean Evenings, one of Europe's best folk performances. There, you can enjoy authentic Tyrolean music, folk dances, unusual instruments, and “shoe-slapping” as well as typical songs and yodeling.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes

Day 6

Day 6 - Your First Full Day in Innsbruck

Cultural and Culinary Private Walking Tour

Cultural and Culinary Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

On this captivating tour through Innsbruck's rich tapestry of culture and history, you will be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide who brings the city's anecdotes to life. Engage your senses as you explore the sights, sounds, aromas, and flavors that define the vibrant essence of Innsbruck. Delve into its diverse culinary scene, savoring delicious treats and local specialties along the way. This immersive city stroll promises not just a tour but a sensory adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories of Innsbruck's charm and gastronomic delights.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 3 hours

Hike High City Limits

Suggestion to explore on your own

Enjoy a pleasant 13 kilometer (8 mile) hike, with gorgeous vistas, by walking to Innsbruck's Kranebitten district, where you'll find the famous "Golden Roof" route. This path will take you along the Inn, which you'll cross by taking the wooden Weiherburg-Steg bridge. The trail then winds its way up past the Alpine Zoo to the Hungerburg district, which provides fantastic panoramic views of Innsbruck and the surrounding mountains such as Nockspitze, Patscherkofel, and Serles.

Hike High City Limits

Day 7

Day 7 - Traveling to Salzburg by Train

Today you'll be heading to Salzburg by train. There are several daily departures. We'll arrange second-class tickets for you, and can also reserve first-class tickets for an extra fee if you prefer. We also included a transfer to Innsbruck's train station.

Salzburg By Train

You can upgrade your transfer

Upgrade to Salzburg By Private Transfer with a Stop at the Swarovski Museum

Salzburg By Private Transfer with a Stop at the Swarovski Museum

Upgrade for an additional cost
We also offer the following excursions in Innsbruck

E-Bike Private Tour around Innsbruck
Moderate4-6 hours
Easy Private Hike around Innsbruck
Light4-5 hours
Innsbruck Olympic Private Tour
Moderate4 hours
Innsbruck Private Christmas Walking Tour
Easy2 hours

2 Nights in Salzburg

2 Nights in Salzburg

3 days in Salzburg
3 days in Salzburg

2 Nights in Salzburg

With its perfectly preserved UNESCO-listed Old Town, Salzburg is internationally renowned for its baroque architecture. Add in the alpine backdrop and you’ve got a city that makes for an unforgettable vacation. The imposing Salzburg Cathedral and Hohensalzburg Fortress dominate the skyline, while in the center you’ll find plenty of grand cafes and fine restaurants. Salzburg’s two biggest claims to fame are that it was the birthplace of Mozart and the stage for the timeless musical The Sound of Music. But there’s more than just history here. Today the city is a vibrant destination for travelers looking for a mix of classic culture and modern flair. Strolling through Salzburg is one of the great pleasures of Europe. The local cuisine is hearty and there are more than enough restaurants, bars, and cafes to keep you busy. Beer lovers shouldn’t miss sampling a stein or two of delicious local brew at the Augustiner brewery. But there is so much to see in the surrounding region that no visit to the city is complete without a day trip or two. You could tour the pristine countryside and visit the stunning Hellbrunn Palace. History buffs will want to venture farther afield to visit Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest perched high in the German Alps in Berchtesgaden.

With its perfectly preserved UNESCO-listed Old Town, Salzburg is internationally renowned for its baroque architecture. Add in the alpine backdrop and you’ve got a city that makes for an unforgettable vacation. The imposing Salzburg Cathedral and Hohensalzburg Fortress dominate the skyline, while in the center you’ll find plenty of grand cafes and fine restaurants. Salzburg’s two biggest claims to fame are that it was the birthplace of Mozart and the stage for the timeless musical The Sound of Music. But there’s more than just history here. Today the city is a vibrant destination for travelers looking for a mix of classic culture and modern flair. Strolling through Salzburg is one of the great pleasures of Europe. The local cuisine is hearty and there are more than enough restaurants, bars, and cafes to keep you busy. Beer lovers shouldn’t miss sampling a stein or two of delicious local brew at the Augustiner brewery. But there is so much to see in the surrounding region that no visit to the city is complete without a day trip or two. You could tour the pristine countryside and visit the stunning Hellbrunn Palace. History buffs will want to venture farther afield to visit Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest perched high in the German Alps in Berchtesgaden.

Day 7

Day 7 - Arrival in Salzburg

Upon your arrival in Salzburg a driver will meet you at the train station and bring you to your hotel.

Dinner and Mozart Concert at the Hohensalzburg Fortress

Dinner and Mozart Concert at the Hohensalzburg Fortress

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

A unique and unmistakable highlight is the dinner in the Panorama Restaurant on the Fortress Hohensalzburg. High above the rooftops of the city, the evening begins with a  4-course dinner in the most beautiful facilities the restaurant has to offer. The breathtaking view of the city of Salzburg where Mozart was born and the beauty of the landscape, surrounded by majestic mountains, truly are very special indeed. 


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

Day 8

Day 8 - Your First Full Day in Salzburg

Salzburg Private Walking Tour

Salzburg Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Discover the beauty of Mozart's hometown as an experienced guide leads you on a walk through the UNESCO-listed city of Salzburg. Your walk includes all the sightseeing highlights, such Mozart's birthplace and residence, the Getreidegasse, Cathedral, Residenz Palace, and Mirabell Palace, with its splendid gardens. If you come across anywhere you'd like to spend more time and go inside, your expert local guide will tailor the tour to your interests.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 2 hours 30 minutes

A Journey into Other Worlds

Suggestion to explore on your own

Gain a greater appreciation and understanding of Salzburg's history, art, and nature by visiting its museums. Get a glimpse into some of the city's treasures, such as Mozart's Birthplace and other institutions dedicated to the world's most famous composer. The Marionette Museum and the "Neue Residenz" await you with more thematic exhibitions. Great readers may discover museums dedicated to local but world-known writers. Don't leave these discoveries for a rainy day!

A Journey into Other Worlds

Day 9

Day 9 - Departure Day

Today we will arrange for a driver to pick you up at your hotel and take you directly to Munich airport for your departing flight. The journey takes a little under two hours, so you'll need to leave Salzburg around 5 hours before your scheduled flight departure.

Munich Airport by Private Transfer
We also offer the following excursions in Salzburg

Apple Strudel and Salzburger Nockerl Small Group Cooking Class
Light1 hour 30 minutes
Bavarian Alps & Eagle's Nest Private Tour
Light8 hours
Bavarian Mountains Group Tour
Light4 hours
Berchtesgaden Salt Mine Group Tour
Light4 hours

What's Included

Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.

Lucerne

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Zurich Airport - Lucerne Private Arrival Transfer
Lucerne Private Walking Tour
Mt. Pilatus Self-Guided Tour
Lucerne Train Station Transfer
Lucerne - Zurich Train

Zurich

1 Night Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Zurich Train Station Transfer
Zurich Train Station Transfer
Zurich - Innsbruck Train

Innsbruck

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Innsbruck Train Station Transfer
Tyrolean Evening Show
Cultural and Culinary Private Walking Tour
Innsbruck Train Station Transfer
Innsbruck - Salzburg Train

Salzburg

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Salzburg Train Station Transfer
Salzburg Private Walking Tour
Salzburg - Munich Airport Transfer

package excludes:


  • Flights to and from Europe.
  • Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
  • Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
  • Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
  • Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
Benefits of Traveling with JayWay

A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.

A Travel Advisor who speaks your language

We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.

A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation

Your trip is customized for you by  an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.

A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions

We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.

Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day

Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.

On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road

Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.

Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out

Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.
Get an Instant Price Estimate

Choose the month of travel, how many travelers and what star level accommodation you'd like to stay in, then get an instant price estimate.

Once you’ve done that you can request a tailor-made itinerary based on this by entering just a few more details.






Per Person Package Price from*
Get your personalized itinerary based on this trip.


Sending ...
Thank you!

Thank you for your interest in taking a trip based on this itinerary. One of our expert travel advisors will be in touch soon to start tailoring it precisely to your preferences.

Ooops!?

Something went wrong at our end, please try again in a moment.

Go To Top