9 Day Discover Switzerland, Austria & Bavaria Featuring Oktoberfest

Discover spectacular Switzerland, Austria and Bavaria on a tour featuring stays in three cities. Your journey begins in Lucerne, Switzerland, in the shadow of Mount Pilatus. This “Swiss Paradise on the Lake” is famous for the Chapel Bridge from 1333, and the impressive Lion Monument, carved right into the native rock.

This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner featuring local cuisine.

Today, you can explore Lucerne on your own. Perhaps you’ll wander the Altstadt (Old Town), exploring the hidden treasures of this 800-year-old city such as the covered Chapel Bridge (1333); the famous Water Tower, which has served as a prison, watchtower and treasury; the Renaissance-style Town Hall; the baroque Jesuit Church; and the Lion Monument, carved from natural rock to commemorate the heroic Swiss Guard. Later, board a cable car and journey up to the top of Mount Pilatus for incredible views of the Alps.

Today is at your leisure, or you can take an optional tour and set out for the “Top of Europe.” The incredible lookout built on the snowy shoulder of the Jungraujoch mountain pass, is an incredible way to take in the Alps. You’ll get there by train, setting off from Lauterbrunnen station and heading underground, into the mountain, before emerging into the snow-covered wonderland that waits at the “Top of Europe."

Set out from Lucerne to explore the delightful city of Bern. Once in Bern, you’ll set out on a panoramic sightseeing tour, led by a local guide, featuring the Bundeshaus (the Swiss Parliament), the famous Bear Pit, the Rose Gardens and the gothic cathedral, which dominates Old Town’s skyline.

Tonight, dine at one of Lucerne’s great restaurants.

En route to Innsbruck, make your way through Liechtenstein, the smallest German-speaking country in the world and the only country to lie entirely within the Alps. Upon arrival in Innsbruck, it’s your choice! Select one of two leisurely walking tours: join a local guide as you discover the city’s history, culture and popular attractions including Maria Theresien Strasse, the Hofburg and the “Golden Roof" -OR- you may embark on a tour focusing on Innsbruck’s unique architectural structures including its famous ski jump.

Travel through the picturesque Austrian countryside to Salzburg. Enjoy a walking tour featuring Mirabell Gardens (seen in The Sound of Music), the quaint Getreidegasse (birthplace of Mozart), and many other highlights of this beautiful city. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to independently explore and enjoy Salzburg’s fabulous sights. Complete your day with a delightful dinner at the 1,200-year-old St. Peter’s Restaurant, the oldest in Austria and still owned by the monks.

Today fairy tales come to life with a tour of Bavaria’s famous castle, Neuschwanstein. Built by King Ludwig II, it is the most photographed castle in Germany. Later, enjoy classic cuisine in a local restaurant before experiencing the rich musical tradition of mountainous Austria during a Tyrolean folklore show hosted by a well-known local musical family.

Make your way to Munich for Oktoberfest, a traditional folk festival from the 1800s. Today, the festival draws people from all over the world and features lively music, savory cuisine, authentic costumes, amusement rides, and millions of beer liters served. In your reserved tent, toast to a fun-filled day of drinks, games, and friendly locals.

Your tour comes to an end in Munich.