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Swiss & Austrian Alpine Odyssey

9 Days / 8 Nights

Lucerne, Zurich, Innsbruck, Salzburg

from$3,975 per person

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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.

Our representative will then meet with you to answer any questions you have and to get you settled for the rest of your trip.

Lucerne, Love and Luxury

Suggestion to explore on your own

Stunningly beautiful, Lucerne is regarded as one of the prettiest cities in the world for a reason. After you've checked in to your hotel, waste no time to start exploring this most charming Swiss city. Take a nice and easy walk in the Old Town, across the Chapel Bridge and if you are not too tired, we also suggest to climb the Musegg Wall, providing a spectacular view of the city and the surrounding area. At the end of your walk, we suggest finding a nice restaurant for a "Apero" (aperitif) or one that serves fondue, as it is quite famous in Lucerne. We recommend for this restaurant Schiff and "Du Pont" Fondue House.

Lucerne, Love, and Luxury

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Lucerne

Lucerne Group Walking Tour

Lucerne Group Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Lucerne, with its well-preserved medieval core, refined historic buildings, and unique atmosphere, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Switzerland. We invite you to experience stunning sights and many fascinating aspects of this beautiful lakeside town. Learn humorous and important facts alike about Lucerne's history, and the everyday lives of its people. You'll discover hidden alleys, visit bustling town squares, and see the city's highlights.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes

Swiss Variety

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Lucerne's gastronomy is very diverse. Imaginatively presented traditional food, gourmet restaurants, excellent wine, refined cheese in all shapes and forms, chocolate, etc. and fish! Swiss cuisine thoughtfully combines dishes of neighboring countries in unique ways. Should you long for a good snack or a light lunch, make sure to drop by The Urban Farm behind the Musegg Wall or at the Rathaus Brauerei, a brewhouse offering traditional dishes. Seeburghof is a winery within the city limits, producing organic wines, offering tastings in an unparalleled ambience. A fine dinner along the lake is a great farewell from Lucerne. Other onorable mentions are The Old Swiss House, ship restaurant Willhelm Tell and Olivo restaurant at the Grand Casino of Lucerne.

City and Fondue Private Tuk-Tuk Tour

City and Fondue Private Tuk-Tuk Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Discover Lucerne by electric tuktuk and experience the city as the locals do, with one of them as your chauffeur and guide. Be taken from the charming Old Town to the shopping district, on to Switzerland’s most famous wooden bridge, the Chapel Bridge. Have your chauffeur let you in on Lucerne’s secrets, and discover Lucerne's diversity. This tour is not only about sightseeing, as you will also stop at the Falken Fondue House to try delicious fondue, with bread, potatoes and Swiss wine.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes

Lake Lucerne Private Tour

Lake Lucerne Private Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Discover the beauty and history of the famous Vierwaldstättersee (Lake Lucerne) region and Lucerne itself. This tour will show you the heart of Switzerland and give you the opportunity to do some walking in the mountains around the lake, taking in stunning views of the area, visit Switzerland's prize gem and visit either a cheese, chocolate, or penknife factory.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 8-9 hours

Chocolate, Mountains, and Medieval Towns Private Tour

Chocolate, Mountains, and Medieval Towns Private Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Switzerland may seem to be small but it has seemingly countless great places to visit. This busy day will show you the spectacular highlights of the country's northern parts. From breathtaking mountain peaks to the grand, powerful waterfall, and a historical medieval Laufen Castle, among other places. This tour really is packed with excitement!


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 8-9 hours

Day 3

Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Lucerne

Mt. Pilatus Self-Guided Tour

Ascend the Hill

Included in your vacation package price.

For captivating views of Lucerne, ascend to Gütsch (Swiss German for Hill). Situated only two kilometers from the city center, active travelers can climb the steps leading to its viewpoint, but there's a more leisurely alternative. The Gütsch Funicular, part of Lucerne's transportation system, is a swift way to the top and is covered by the card provided to the city's hotel guests offering free public transportation, so there's no excuse not to visit. Looking around, you'll quickly notice the macabre Art Panorama Inferno, a sculpture exhibition that includes In Dante Veritas, originally displayed at the Venice Biennale. Just beyond starts the Gütschwald, a well-maintained beech forest criss-crossed with tracks and paths. Alternatively, you can enjoy a hike up to the region's most famous mountain, Mount Pilatus.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 6 hours approx.

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
Lake Lucerne Group Cruise with Gourmet Lunch
Easy1 hour and 50 minutes
Lake Lucerne Panoramic Sightseeing Group Cruise
Easy1 hour

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 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.

Experience the mix of culture, history, anecdotes and culinary delights enlightened by the company of your local tour guide. See, hear, smell and taste the diversity of the city and enjoy Innsbruck with all your senses during this entertaining and delicious city stroll.


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.

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

The City of Music

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Above all, Salzburg is a city of music. There are dozens of venues for classical music and opera throughout the city. Mozart's ouvre is obviously the most popular, but far from the only choice. In August you’ll find the Salzburg Festival, with more than 200 opera and classical music performances taking place in various concert halls. If you visit Salzburg in a different month, we can also offer tickets to regular concerts at the Mirabell Palace, St. Peters's Monastery and above all, at Hohensalzburg Fortress. These small, historic concert halls offer an exceptional, very personal experience.

Concert in the Mirabell Palace

Concert in the Mirabell Palace

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Enjoy a true musical treat during your stay in Salzburg. The Mirabell Palace's grandiose Baroque-style Marble Hall awaits connoisseurs and enthusiasts of classical music almost daily. Apart from Mozart, you'll hear pieces from other greats, such as Schubert, Vivaldi, and Beethoven. Experience the talent of soloists and ensembles dedicated to sharing Salzburg's musical spirit and heritage.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes

Mozart Concert and Dinner in the Baroque Hall

Mozart Concert and Dinner in the Baroque Hall

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

This will be an unforgettable evening and perhaps the highlight of your visit to Salzburg. It's an evening of fine dining and world-class music as you enjoy fantastic entertainment at your own private table in the fabulous Baroque hall of Saint Peter's Monastery, making for a great way to sample the high culture of this musical city. This popular possibility sells out fast.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 3 hours

Day 8

Day 8 - Your First Full Day in Salzburg

A Romantic Ramble

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

With its lush palace pleasure gardens, pathways along the Salzach River, and the forested hills in and around the city, Salzburg is a city fit for the romance-minded. Roam through palace grounds, and past fountains, especially the Trick Fountains in Hellbrunn Palace Gardens, and wrap each other in a hug! Want more romance? The utterly scenic village of Hallstatt, makes for a good day trip.

Hallstatt Group Tour

Hallstatt Group Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Hallstatt... One of the world's most captivating lakeside villages. The views you'll enjoy as you pass through the picturesque Salzkammergut Lake District alone will make this trip worthwhile. Hear interesting and fun stories from your knowledgeable tour guide during the coach ride and dive into discovering Hallstatt for yourself, whether visiting the village's museum, the Mühlbach Waterfalls, or enjoying a discounted funicular ride up to the "World Heritage View."


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 5 hours 30 minutes

Hallstatt Half Day Private Trip

Hallstatt Half Day Private Trip

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Experience the beauty of the Austrian Lake District, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hallstatt on a private tour. Drive along the emerald-green Fuschlsee and stop at its castle. Take a picture from a great view point above the town of St. Gilgen, where Mozart’s mother was born. Visit the town of Bad Ischl, the former summer residence of Emperor Franz Josef. You'll enjoy time to explore Hallstatt, where you can visit all the hidden gems and must-sees, and enjoy 7,000 years of history. Marvel at the Gosausee, with the glistening Dachstein glacier as its backdrop.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 6 hours

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 Group 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.
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