Alpine Splendor: Switzerland and Austria

June 13 - 26, 2024

Length: 14 days

Region(s): Europe

Activity Level: Activity indicator paw

Type: Land, Small Group Tours

The towering peaks of the Alps serve as the stunning backdrop for our Swiss and Austrian exploration. As our small group discovers mountain villages and European cities, rides the famed Glacier Express, cruises on glassine lakes, and ascends snowcapped summits, borders disappear and the region’s history – and beauty – enchant one and all.

Operated by Odysseys Unlimited

Tour Highlights

Begin in lovely Lucerne with its namesake lake and take a ride up Mt. Pilatus on the world’s steepest cogwheel train.
Board the legendary Glacier Express, following the fabled Rhône to Zermatt, gateway to the Swiss Alps.
Ride the Gornergratbahn, Europe’s highest open-air railway, to the Gornergrat’s summit for spectacular views of the majestic Matterhorn.
Cross into northern Italy and visit Stresa along Lake Maggiore’s shores.
Spend three nights in lakeside Lugano and explore Switzerland’s Ticino region, including medieval Bellinzona and its iconic Castelgrande castle, a UNESCO site.
Enjoy lunch alfresco at a grotto restaurant then visit picturesque Ascona.
Take a leisurely cruise around Lake Lugano.
Travel on to Austria by way of Liechtenstein and visit a royal attraction: the Cellars of the Prince of Liechtenstein where we enjoy a tour and wine sampling.
Stay in Seefeld for two nights and tour postcard-worthy Innsbruck.
Take a cable car to a lookout in the Nordkette, a range of mountains outside Innsbruck.
Spend three nights in Salzburg, Austria’s riverside jewel.
Attend an intimate chamber music performance in the famed Mirabell Palace, and visit Hohensalzburg, one of Europe’s ﬁnest castles.
Tour the Nazis’ Eagle’s Nest retreat in nearby Berchtesgaden.
Savor Austria’s beloved capital Vienna at your own pace with an optional 4-day/3-night post-tour extension.

If you would like to view a digital copy of this trip’s brochure, please click on the “Digital Brochure” under Additional Resources (follows directly below Itinerary at a Glance) on this webpage.

* Cal lecturer’s participation cannot be guaranteed and is contingent upon a minimum number of paying travelers.

Activity Level 3

What to expect: These trips feature long touring days with travel via motor coach, ship, zodiac, all-terrain vehicle, or train. Travelers are required to board transportation without assistance as well as stand and walk over uneven terrain for extended periods of time. Some tours may include optional higher-intensity activities and travel at higher altitudes with steep ascents and descents. Outings last four to six hours most days.

Suitable for: Travelers who are able to comfortably walk four to six miles, or 6,900–9,200 steps, each day.