Essential Europe by Rail: Austria, Germany and Switzerland

13 Days from $8,490 USD / person

Discover some of Central Europe’s most beautiful and historic cities on this enchanting rail journey that takes you through Austria, Germany and Switzerland.

Delve into the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Vienna and Salzburg on guided walking tours. The Old Towns of Munich and Zurich, dotted with churches and beautiful heritage buildings will take you back in time. Marvel at the breathtaking European countryside on excursions to the Danube Valley, Rhine Falls, and the fabulous resort town of Interlaken. During your time in gorgeous Geneva, you will also get to hop over the border to explore the alpine town of Annecy in France.

Your Vacation. Your Way.

This itinerary can be customized for you. Get in touch with our experts for your personalized vacation plan.

Ideal For

Heritage & Culture

Nature & Landscapes

Wine & Food

Sample Itinerary

Day

Place

Hotel Opts

1 – 3

Vienna
Highlights: Palaces & Austro-Hungarian History, Viennese Cuisine, Music, Opera & Festivals

Jaz in the City Vienna
Almanac Palais Vienna

3 – 4

Salzburg
Highlights: Hohensalzburg Castle, Birthplace of Wolfgang Mozart, Sound of Music Tour

Imlauer Hotel Pitter Salzburg
Hotel Schloss Mönchstein

4 – 6

Munich
Highlights: Marienplatz Square, Town hall & Viktualienmarkt, Bavarian food & Beer Gardens, Nymphenburg Castle

Alpen Hotel München
Excelsior by Geisel

6 – 8

Zürich
Highlights: Heritage & Culture, Old Town, Lake Zurich, Uetliberg

Hotel Helmhaus
Storchen Zürich

8 – 11

Interlaken
Highlights: Harder Kulm, St. Beatus Cave & Waterfalls, Lake Thun & Lake Brienz

Hotel Interlaken
Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & SPA

11 – 11

Montreux
Highlights: Chillon Castle, Terraced vineyards of Lavaux, Winter sports

11 – 13

Geneva
Highlights: Palais des Nations, Reformation Monument & Parc des Bastions, Lake Geneva & Views of the Alps, Jet d'Eau

Hôtel Edelweiss
Hôtel Beau-Rivage

Add to Wishlist

Remove from Wishlist

Plan My Trip

Essential Europe by Rail: Austria, Germany and Switzerland

I was referred by a past guest Yes No

Your info is secure and never shared with 3rd parties.

Hold tight!

Your request is being submitted…

Thank You for Inquiring

While we review your requirements, why not discover more about your dream destination?

Thank You for Inquiring

Let our sales team know you’d like more details – just hit the button!

START PLANNING 1 888 263 2574

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 – 3

2 Nights

Vienna

Vienna, the capital city of Austria by the Danube River, is also the artistic and cultural heart of the country. Home to musical maestros like Beethoven, Mozart, Haydn, Schubert, and Strauss, among many other masters, Vienna is famous the world over as the City of Music. It is worth catching a performance of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra at the many opera houses dotting the city, like the Musikverein, the Staatsoper, or the grand Konzerthaus. Much of the grandeur of this exquisite city has come down from the age when Vienna was the center of the Habsburg Empire. The city abounds in grand palaces like the Hofburg Palace complex and the Schloss Schönbrunn, or the summer palace of the Hapsburgs. Vienna also has many museums like the Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna and the contemporary art museum, MUMOK. The elegant City Hall at the Innere Stadt is also worth a visit. Viennese coffee and desserts are legendary. So don’t leave town without visiting one of its many coffee houses.

Included activities

Personalized Walking Tour of Vienna

Explore Vienna on foot in the company of an expert local guide. Explore the city’s historic old town and its imperial streets. Understand the influence of Babenbergs and the Habsburg Dynasty on the city’s landmark attractions. Discover the atmospheric square of Karlsplatz, the sprawling Hofburg palace complex and the soaring Gothic-style St Stephen’s Cathedral. Walk along the beautifully manicured Ringstrasse, past the Austrian Parliament Building and the Vienna City Hall. You can also see the Heldenplatz square, known for being the site of Hitler’s Anschluss speech. Take a break from the heavy past in urban green spaces such as Castle Park, and elegant shopping avenues including Kärntner Strasse, Kohlmarkt, and Goldenes Quartier. Admire the neoclassical architecture of the Vienna State Opera, and the colorful facade of the quirky Hundertwasserhaus apartment. (Duration: 2 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy)

Personalized Tour of Danube Valley including Melk Abbey

Explore the jewels of the romantic Danube Valley in Lower Austria. This is a destination steeped in history, thanks to centuries of trade on the Danube river. Take in vistas of the picturesque landscape covered in terraced vineyards and lush hill slopes punctuated by charming villages and ancient castles. First, visit the iconic Melk Abbey, perched on a clifftop that overlooks the pretty town of Melk. Witness its Baroque architecture highlighted by white-and-mustard exteriors. You will see the spiral Imperial staircases, corridors, painted ceilings, museums, galleries, the expansive library, and the red marble hall. After dropping by the monastery and the exquisitely decorated Abbey Church, you can relax in the manicured gardens. Enjoy panoramic views of Danube’s riverside from the terrace, before heading to Dürnstein. Take a walk through its atmospheric center, and then you can spend some time hiking around the ruins of the medieval castle. On your way back to Vienna, pass by Krems an der Donau, known for its production of fine wines. (Full Day; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness level: Easy)

Hotel options

Jaz in the City Vienna – Opt 1

Room In-Tune Room

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Almanac Palais Vienna – Opt 2

Room Almanac Deluxe Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 3 – 4

1 Night

Salzburg

Salzburg, a fairy tale Alpine town, became popular with travelers largely because of the all-time classic family musical, The Sound of Music. This picturesque town in the Eastern Alps bordering Germany is named after the lovely Salzach River, which runs through it. Salzburg is also popular with travelers from around the world as the birthplace of the musical genius, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Mozart’s old family home has been lovingly preserved as a museum in the Altstadt or Old Town. Salzburg has proudly preserved its musical heritage to this day by holding classical concerts on nearly every day of the year. Elegant Baroque buildings, medieval church spires, lovely shaded parks, and stone-paved little streets make up this picture-perfect Austrian gem. Sample the delicious street food at the Alter Markt or Old Market Square, feasting on Wiener schnitzels, Tafelspitz, and Austrian pretzels, before dropping by the city’s many beer gardens.

Included activities

Personalized Salzburg Walking Tour with Mozart Residence

Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Salzburg and visit the erstwhile home of famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. In the morning, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and set off to explore the city that is dotted with churches, castles and palaces. Traverse the narrow alleys of the UNESCO-listed old town area, with its fine examples of 17th and 18th-century architecture. Salzburg Cathedral, Mirabell Palace and Gardens and Getreidegasse street are all located in the area. As you walk, your guide will point out prominent monuments and tell you about their role in shaping the city. Salzburg was where the classic movie, ‘The Sound of Music’ was filmed as well. At Makartplatz, visit the spacious apartment where Mozart and his family lived from 1773 to 1787, which is now a museum. Browse the exhibits chronicling the life and times of the iconic composer before you head back. (Duration: 3 hrs; Time: 1000 hrs; Private activity; Fitness level: easy; Entry fees included; Not available during Mozart week)

Hotel options

Imlauer Hotel Pitter Salzburg – Opt 1

Room Classic Room

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Hotel Schloss Mönchstein – Opt 2

Room Superior Room with Park View

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Day 4 – 6

2 Nights

Munich

The mere mention of Munich and one conjures up images of annual Oktoberfest gatherings where lederhosen and dirndl-clad women serve beer in large tankards! Although beer halls, including the 16th-century Hofbräuhaus and modern open-air beer gardens are commonplace, this wonderful capital of Bavaria that straddles the Isar river in southern Germany has a lot more to offer. Contemporary art quarters, plus automotive and comedy museums, stand next to the world’s best science and technology collections housed in heritage buildings. Explore bronzed cobblestone alleys and converted air-raid bunkers that speak stories of the past. Go back in time at Marienplatz, the city square where the town hall featuring gothic revival architecture showcases a glockenspiel clock in its dramatic façade. And then, there are the spectacular royal palaces of German monarchs, centuries-old churches, and expansive botanical parks that add elegance to Munich’s urban landscape. A sports hub, soccer fans will be delighted to watch matches at Allianz Arena, the home ground of FC Bayern!

Included activities

Group Walking Tour of Munich’s Historic Old Town

Start out on this interesting walking tour of the key landmarks in the historic old part of the city. Set off from the meeting point at the Hauptbahnhof or the central train station with your knowledgeable local expert. Pass by exquisitely detailed churches, historical monuments, and the Bavarian capital’s famous beer halls. Listen to your expert narrate riveting facts and amusing anecdotes about the various attractions you encounter along the way. Apart from the delightful sights, get historical insight into the city’s not-so-illustrious past as a Nazi stronghold during the first half of the 20th century. (Half Day; Fixed Time: Yes; Time of Day: 1015 (All Year), 1015/1430 (Apr 1 – Oct 15); Duration: 2 hrs; Shared Activity; Fitness Level: Easy. Transfer not included: meet at Radius Tours Office, please arrive at least 15 min early)

Explore Munich at your own leisure-our recommendation

Unravel the secrets of this Bavarian city where tradition and modernity rub shoulders, as you set off to explore at your own pace. Peek into the past at the Dachau Concentration Camp and Memorial Site located just a short drive from the city. Soak in the history of the site before you make your way back to the city and head up the tower at Peterskirche to savor splendid views of the city. At lunchtime, get a taste of authentic German delicacies at one of the charming eateries and cafes that can be found all across the city. Afterward, stop by the large park of Englischer Garten to catch a glimpse of surfers riding the waves formed by the surging Eisbach river! Get a taste of local life at the sprawling Viktualienmarkt with its colorful displays of fresh produce, flowers, and snacks. Before you head back to your hotel, drop by a beerhouse such as the Hofbrauhaus where you can enjoy a cool pint served by traditionally dressed staff. Self-Guided Activity; No guide, transfers, entry tickets, meals included; Fitness Level: Easy)

Hotel options

Alpen Hotel München – Opt 1

Room Alpenchic Comfort Double Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Excelsior by Geisel – Opt 2

Room Classic Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Day 6 – 8

2 Nights

Zürich

Zürich has to be one of the prettiest and wealthiest cities of Europe, with the Limmat River and Lake Zürich running through it and the majestic Swiss Alps towering over it. While the old town (Altstadt) of Zürich is a gorgeous collection of lovingly preserved heritage buildings and old churches, modern Züri is a thriving financial center with a very lively nightlife. Zürich’s landmark 12th century cathedral of Grossmünster, the much older Fraumünster Church with its lovely stained-glass windows, the 17th century Rathaus (or town hall), and the Bahnhofstrasse or high street lined with boutiques and high-end restaurants are must-visits on any traveler’s list. Art lovers meanwhile have much to see at the Kunsthaus Zürich and the Rietberg Museum, the county’s largest museum of non-European cultures. The food scene in Zürich’s modern, industrialized part of town is worth exploring with its food markets, street stalls, popular food festivals, and fine dining restaurants. And let’s not forget that Switzerland’s largest city is the cheese, chocolate and fondue capital of the world!

Included activities

Group Walking Tour of Zurich Old Town

Delve into the history and culture of Zurich’s Old Town on this walking tour. Meet your guide at the Zurich Tourist Information Center at Main Station. Then set out on foot to look for clues to the city’s past in its hidden alleyways and picturesque squares. Uncover the secrets of Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich’s main downtown street and one of the world’s most expensive and exclusive shopping avenues. Discover the ‘procession axis’ formed by three churches and visit a church with a clock that has a minute-hand that jumps a record-breaking distance of half a meter every minute. Along the way, your guide will also tell you about luminaries such as Albert Einstein, James Joyce, and Wagner who have all called this lakeside city home. (Duration: 2 hrs; Time: 1100 hrs (Mon, Wed, Sun from Nov – Mar & Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun from Apr – Oct)/1300 hrs (Sat only from Nov – Mar); Shared activity; Group size: max 15-20 ppl; No transfers; Starting point: Zurich Tourist Information at Main Station, Hauptbahnhof, 8001; Meals are not included; Fitness level: easy; Please wear comfortable walking shoes; Not available on Tues, Dec 25 & Jan 1)

Personalized Tour of Rhine Falls and Stein am Rhein

Visit Europe’s largest waterfall and the historic town of Stein am Rhein. At the scheduled time, travel in a private vehicle across the scenic countryside comprising vineyards and quaint farming villages. Your first stop is the majestic Laufen Castle that overlooks the Rhine Falls. This ancient fortress now houses a restaurant and a youth hostel. Take in the awe-inspiring sight of the cascades thundering over the rocks from vantage points before you resume your journey. Next, drive through the border settlement of Schaffhausen, home to the 16th-century Munot Fortress, to reach Stein am Rhein. Enjoy a stroll around the well-preserved old town area that is lined with half-timbered medieval houses and colorful buildings. Other attractions here include a clock tower, the town hall and the Benedictine monastery of Saint George. You could explore some more before driving back to Zurich. (Duration: 4hrs; Private activity & transfers; Group size: max 6 ppl; Fitness level: easy; Meals are not included; Entry fees are included)

Hotel options

Hotel Helmhaus – Opt 1

Room Boutique Double

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Storchen Zürich – Opt 2

Room City Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Day 8 – 11

3 Nights

Interlaken

Interlaken is a paradise for outdoor sports enthusiasts and adventure travelers from around the globe. Framed by the Lake Thun and Lake Brienz in a spectacular Alpine valley of central Switzerland, Interlaken boasts of flowering meadows, verdant parklands, pretty timber chalets, and majestic fir and juniper forests. Some of the continent’s best Alpine hiking, abseiling, white water rafting, paragliding and skiing trails are also to be found among the glaciers and mountain ranges of the Bernese Oberland region. The town offers fabulous views of the breathtaking Eiger glacier and snow-capped peaks of the Mönch and Jungfrau mountains. Travelers frequently use this traditional resort town as a gateway to the country’s Jungfrau region. When in town, take a food and culture tour or go pub crawling, sampling the region’s mouth-watering cheese, milk, and chocolate delicacies.

Included activities

Personalized Interlaken Walking Tour

Discover the natural beauty and fascinating history of the traditional resort town of Interlaken, at the center of the Swiss Alps. Start your guided tour at the old town square. Walk to Reformierte Schlosskirche, formerly a 12th-century Augustinian monastery, converted to a castle church, known for its stained-glass work. Stroll along to Höhematte Park for breathtaking views of the Jungfrau mountain and Garden of Friendship, a small Japanese-style garden. Wander onward across the Aare River and marvel at the colors of its glacial waters as you arrive at the tiny village of Unterseen at the foot of Mount Harder, a charming scene with farm animals grazing on pastures. Further up on the forested paths is Hardermannli lookout and Hohbühl Pavilion, from where you can absorb magnificent views of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and the snow-capped Swiss Alps. Hohbühl Pavilion also has a memorial to famous music composers Mendelssohn, Wagner, and Weber. (Duration: 2 hrs; Time: Flexible; Private Activity; Fitness Level: Easy; Entrance fees and transfer not included. Please wear sturdy walking shoes. Carry water).

Personalized Jungfraujoch Tour

Spend a day at Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest train station, on a private full-day excursion. A journey through Lauterbrunnen takes you to the beautiful alpine village of Wengen where downhill ski races take place every winter. Take a train to Kleine Scheidegg and then board the cogwheel train for a picturesque ride up to Jungfraujoch. From the adventure platform 3,455 meters above sea level, enjoy stunning views of the famous peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Your guide takes you through the Ice Palace with its tunnels and sculptures, and walks you through the Alpine Sensation corridor that connects to Sphinx Hall. At the Sphinx observation deck, you can see the snow-covered Aletsch glacier, while Jungfrau Panorama offers a 360-degrees virtual viewing of the surrounding area. Don’t miss the Lindt Swiss Chocolate Heaven chocolate shop, with interactive displays on the chocolate-making process. A train then takes you to the mountain village of Grindelwald for a short halt before returning to Interlaken by coach. (Duration: 9hrs; Time: Flexible; Private Activity & Transfers, Fitness Level: Moderate-High Altitude; Entrance Fees and Meals Not Included; Please wear sturdy walking shoes. Carry water).

Hotel options

Hotel Interlaken – Opt 1

Room Medium B Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & SPA – Opt 2

Room Superior Room

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Day 11 – 11

Montreux

Montreux, or the Montreux Riviera, has been a resort town for the well-heeled and famous, and an inspiration for artists from Lord Byron and Shelley to Charlie Chaplin, Freddie Mercury, and Deep Purple. Nestled along the shores of Lake Geneva and framed by the Swiss Alps, the heritage Old Town is perched atop a hill. The charming lakefront promenade is shaded by tall Mediterranean trees and lined with beautiful flowers like the wild narcissus. The lakeside is also home to grand Belle Époque architecture. Chaplin’s World in Montreux and Chillon Castle, or Château de Chillon, on an island in the lake is definitely worth a visit. The medieval island castle is complete with old ramparts, audience halls, and an old chapel with beautiful mural work. Trips and hikes to the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are popular activities here. Come winter and Montreux attracts winter sports lovers with its many skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking opportunities. The famous Montreux Jazz Festival is an annual event awaited by jazz lovers around the world.

Day 11 – 13

2 Nights

Geneva

Geneva is a renowned global city, thanks to the Red Cross, the World Trade Organization, the World Health Organization, and the European branches of the United Nations and World Bank being headquartered here. But banking and diplomacy aside, this cosmopolitan Swiss city by the banks of Lake Geneva with iconic views of Mont Blanc, creates the perfect backdrop for global travelers of all shades. A completely different, and almost Bohemian culture, lies waiting to be discovered in local bars, art galleries, and cafés of the Les Grottes, the Quartier des Pâquis and the artsy Rhône neighborhoods of Geneva. Walk the cobbled streets of the old town, paddleboard across Lake Geneva, discover the Italian Quarter, and take a little rest on the longest bench in the world! The local coffee houses are best for sampling the delicious local brew. Dine at any of the hip restaurants in town, appreciating the regional cuisine chased by a glass of vino or two.

Included activities

Personalized Geneva Walking Tour

Geneva is full of stunning architecture and history. Explore the beautiful Old Town on this walking tour through a maze of narrow streets. Start with some panoramic views of Lake Geneva from Pont du Mont Blanc bridge. Just across the bridge is Jardin Anglais, with its famous Flower Clock, with a face created by landscaping 6,500 flowering plants and shrubs; it also keeps perfect time. Further along, on the hill, you can see the old church of Temple de la Madeleine with its stunning stained-glass panes. Just beyond it is the grand St. Pierre Cathedral, built in the late 12th century and modified over time, a symbol of the Christian Reformation. Then visit the Reformation Wall, built between 1909 and 1917 along a 16th-century rampart, with the statues of four Genevese reformers at its center. Lastly, walk along the pier and admire the famous Jet d’Eau fountain that throws water 138 meters into the air above the lake. (Duration: 2 hrs; Time: Flexible; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy; Entrance fees not included. Please wear sturdy walking shoes. Carry water).

Personalized Tour of Annecy

Explore the alpine town of Annecy, located in southeastern France. In the morning, travel by private vehicle across the Swiss border to reach the lakeside town. Annecy is known as the Venice of the Alps, for its network of canals and waterways that wind across the old town area. Once you reach, meet your local guide and visit the popular attractions. Stop by the Château D’Annecy, a medieval castle where the Counts of Geneva resided. Now transformed into a museum, browse the collection of regional sculptures, paintings and period furniture. You can also take in splendid views of the alps and the picturesque old town area from here. Next on your itinerary is the historic Palais de l’ile Museum that sits on a natural rocky island in the Thiou canal. Also known as the ‘house in the shape of a ship’, this 12th-century monument has served as a prison, courthouse and administrative center. After the tour winds up, you could enjoy a boat cruise across Lake Annecy before driving back to Geneva. (Duration: full day; Time: between 0800 – 1000 hrs (starting time); Private activity & transfers; Fitness level: easy; Entrance fees to Palais de l’île Museum and Chateau D’Annecy included; You will need to buy tickets for the boat cruise)

Hotel options

Hôtel Edelweiss – Opt 1

Room Superior Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Hôtel Beau-Rivage – Opt 2

Room Deluxe Ville View

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Price & Inclusions

Option 1

From $8,490 USD / person

Option 2

From $11,990 USD / person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes

Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
Your Trip Coordination Team: Dedicated support throughout your journey, with a primary, personal point of contact. Plus, in case of emergencies while you’re traveling, our trip coordination team are available 24/7 by phone

Not Included

Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
Tips and personal expenses
Visa and tourism fees
Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
International airfare

What Our Guests Say

We used Enchanting Travels to help us plan a big graduation trip for my two sons. There was 6 of us in total and we had the perfect blend of activity/tours/sightseeing as well as free time to explore Spain and Switzerland. We had a perfect trip; all the details were thought of and there were no worries or stress throughout our travels. I would recommend them to anyone looking for help planning a European vacation!

Daphne Fleck

USA

This is our 3rd time using Enchanting Travels. Would highly recommend it if you need assistance in researching and booking international travel. They make the process so easy. The experiences are great and they cater to families.

Sonia Greenfield

USA

Enchanting Travels took the stress out of trip planning and travel. We loved our trip!

Michelle Karam

USA

Our Tour Co-Ordinator was Rose Kennedy from Melbourne. She devised an excellent itinerary for us and organized private drivers for us in a country like Germany which doesn’t normally push that thing. I can assure Rose from Enchanting Melbourne is well equipped to organize our Germany holiday.

David Jones

Australia

We always have the best holidays with Enchanting Travels, no need to worry about any disruptions as they are on to it straight away.

Dr. Niranjan Ganeshan

Australia

Highly recommend Enchanting Travels for their experience and attentive, helpful customer service.

Gina Marie Hoff

USA

Other Itineraries You Might Like

Bavaria's Christmas Markets

6 Days from $2,490 USD / person

Spend your holidays exploring the festive Christmas markets in the heart of Bavaria! Experience the spirit of Christmas on a guided tour of Munich’s traditional markets like Christkindlmarkt, Old Town and Christmas village, where you sample delicious cakes and goodies. Enjoy a romantic boat journey in the Bavarian countryside as you hop from one market…

View Vacation

Authentic beautiful towns of Germany - Wurzburg, view with vineyrds and castle, Europe

Road Trip: Bavarian Countryside and Romantic Road

8 Days from $2,790 USD / person

Take a drive through the meandering Romantic Road in the Bavarian countryside, where fairytale castles rub shoulders with pastel-colored, preserved villages, historic sites, and spa destinations. Framed by the distant Alps and ringed in by lush forests, this overland tour will take you deep into the heart of Southern Germany, famed as much for its…

View Vacation

View of Budapest parliament at sunset, Hungary

European Capitals: History and Culture

10 Days from $3,090 USD / person

Immerse yourself in the glorious history of Europe’s cultural hotspots – Budapest, Vienna, and Prague. Discover beautiful Budapest as you visit monuments and historical buildings and amble by charming alleys and cafes. Memorable culinary experiences await you at the Grand Market Hall. Stroll past rows and rows of local vendors and give your taste buds…

View Vacation

Sorry, your search found no results.