Excellent
10-Day Austria & Switzerland Itinerary: Lakes, Art & Culinary
10 Days
5 Stops
Private transfer
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From$8,030
per personAccommodations
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Tourlane App
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Flights
Flexible cancellation policies
Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertThe Basel overnight is the stop most clients initially question and almost all of them thank me for afterward. A single evening in the Old Town along the Rhine and a morning at one of the city's exceptional art institutions adds a cultural layer to the Swiss chapter that going straight to Bern would miss. The strudel baking course in Vienna places you inside a proper Viennese kitchen tradition for two hours, and it reveals more about the city's domestic culture than a third palace visit would. For the Wachau excursion, request the boat segment toward Melk rather than Krems: the monastery rising above the river from the water is one of the strongest single images of the entire itinerary.
The Basel overnight is the stop most clients initially question and almost all of them thank me for afterward. A single evening in the Old Town along the Rhine and a morning at one of the city's exceptional art institutions adds a cultural layer to the Swiss chapter that going straight to Bern would miss. The strudel baking course in Vienna places you inside a proper Viennese kitchen tradition for two hours, and it reveals more about the city's domestic culture than a third palace visit would. For the Wachau excursion, request the boat segment toward Melk rather than Krems: the monastery rising above the river from the water is one of the strongest single images of the entire itinerary.
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Vienna
Day 1 - 3
Resting over the banks of the Danube River in northeastern Austria, Vienna, the country’s capital city, is famous for its classical music heritage and reflects an enticing blend of old and new. The historical centre is skyscraper-free and dotted with immaculate, charming little parks. It is also pedestrian friendly and extremely compact, which is convenient as this area contains the bulk of the city’s major tourist highlights. Chief among these are the famous Burgtheater and Opera House and an array of opulent baroque palaces lining the warren of narrow, medieval alleyways which wind their way around the magnificent St Stephen’s Cathedral. Add to this a slew of grand coffee houses and a rich history of classical music (residents included Mozart and Beethoven) and it becomes difficult to imagine a more livable city than the sophisticated metropolis of Vienna.
Your accommodation
SO/Vienna Hotel
Centrally located in Vienna, SO/Vienna Hotel is an excellent accommodation option for leisure and business travellers, or as a conference venue. The guest rooms are equipped with workspaces, Wi-Fi, TVs, and minibars, and suites feature Nespresso machines, separate living and dining areas, and panoramic views. The hotel features a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city and a relaxed lobby bar. Guests can make use of amenities such as the fitness centre. The surrounding area offers attractions such as visiting St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Your activity
Dinner at Piaristenkeller
Enjoy a 3-course meal (set menu) in a location unlike any other! The Piaristenkeller is a historic restaurant located in a 300-year-old monastery cellar. It offers a unique dining experience with its two attractions, the Emperor Franz Joseph Hat Museum and the Imperial and Royal Wine Treasure Vault. Before or after your meal, you can visit these attractions, gaining insight into the history and culture of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The wine cellar of Piaristenkeller showcases some of Austria’s finest wines in a beautiful setting.An evening at Piaristenkeller is a perfect combination of history, culture, and delicious food, making it a must-visit for anyone in Vienna.
Salzburg
Day 4
Set near the German border, the famous city of Salzburg is one of the best-preserved city centres in Europe. Its winding cobblestone streets offer a treasure trove of Medieval and Baroque buildings, palaces, concert halls, and monasteries - all set against a picturesque backdrop of the magnificent snow-capped Alps. Visit the house where Mozart was born, and enjoy a packed lineup of operas, concerts and ballets in breathtaking historic halls and venues. The internationally renowned Salzburg Festival, which takes place every summer, provides the ultimate way to enjoy this scene. Fans of the Sound of Music can retrace the characters’ steps backed by stunning scenes and vistas. Make sure to stroll along the beautiful Salzach River, climb up to the spectacular Hohensalzburg fortress, and try the famous, delicious beer brewed at the Augustiner Braustubl, a monastery-run brewery operating since 1621.
Your accommodation
Hotel Sacher Salzburg
Salzburg is situated on the banks of the river Salzach, at the northern boundary of the Alps. Shaped as much by it’s natural setting as by industrious human creativity, the city inspired Mozart, Strauss and Toscanini. Intertwined with this heritage is the Hotel Sacher, built in 1866, the same year Salzburg joined the Austro Hungarian Empire. The social hub of the summer music festival, the hotel has welcomed leaders and luminaries. Set on the riverbank overlooking the Baroque Old Town and the Fortress Hohensalzburg, the hotel has classically decorated rooms featuring antiques, silk covered walls, oil paintings and crystal chandeliers.
Your activity
Sound of Music tour
Relive the true story of the Von Trapp family, which was filmed as the 'Sound of Music' in the Salzburg area. This popular tour is a combination of historical Salzburg and the beautiful lakes and mountain areas surrounding the city.
Your dirver-guide will take you past the Mirabell Palace and Gardens, where the famous "Do-Re-Mi" scene was filmed, as well as the quaint town of Mondsee, where the wedding scene was shot. This tour provides a unique opportunity to relive the magical story of the Von Trapp family and the timeless music that captured the hearts of audiences around the world. You will gain insight into the history of Salzburg and the surrounding areas, and gain a deeper appreciation for the film that has become a classic. Whether you're a fan of the movie or simply looking for a scenic adventure, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Salzburg.
Zurich
Day 5 - 6
Zurich, or 'Zuri' as it is fondly known by its multicultural inhabitants, lies in northern Switzerland at the meeting point of a beautiful lake and river, with the magnificent snow-capped Swiss Alps standing guard high above it. This fairy tale city is renowned for its beauty, cleanliness, efficiency, and heritage. Explore medieval alleyways peppered with quirky corner cafes, steepled churches, trendy taprooms, and world-class galleries and restaurants. A day in Zurich can include browsing the unrivalled selection of luxury stores on it’s famous shopping strip, the Bahnhofstrasse; riding the Polybahn, the 19th-century funicular up a steep hill to admire the spectacular view; or ‘renting’ a free bike or skateboard to meander along the banks of picturesque Lake Zurich. The venerable palace of art at the Kunsthaus is also a major drawcard, containing numerous world-famous masterpieces.
Your accommodation
Central Plaza Hotel Zurich
Central Plaza Hotel Zurich is located directly on the Limmat, next to Zurich main station. It offers easy access to attractions such as Bahnhofstrasse, the lively old town of Niederdorf, the State Museum, the Kunsthaus, the Opera and Lake Zurich. Accommodation consists of guest rooms and suites, each equipped with air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a Nespresso coffee machine, a safe, a hairdryer, a telephone and a minibar. Guests can enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant. Other amenities offered are internet access, a terrace and fitness centre.
Your activity
Walking tour incl. Cruise & Museum
Explore Zurich on a comfortable coach tour, passing landmarks such as the Swiss National Museum, the famous Bahnhofstrasse, and the bustling financial district. Pause at Enge Harbour for photo-worthy views of Lake Zurich, then continue along the lakeside past the Zurich Opera House to the elegant Zürichberg neighborhood. Take in panoramic views of the city, the lake, and the distant Alps before arriving in the historic Old Town for a guided walk through its medieval streets, featuring historic guild houses, the Town Hall, and renowned churches.
After the city tour, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Limmat River and board a relaxing 30-minute boat cruise on Lake Zurich. A short walk along the shore brings you to the Lindt Home of Chocolate, where you can explore the interactive museum, marvel at the world’s tallest chocolate fountain, and enjoy unlimited chocolate tastings. Stop by the Lindt Café and browse the extensive chocolate shop for souvenirs.
Your guide will accompany you back to Zurich Main Station using public transport, completing a full day of sightseeing and chocolate delights.
- Group size / Maximum number of people: 25
Basel
Day 7
Set on the banks of the beautiful Rhine River in northwest Switzerland, Basel serves as a cultural hub of the country. The university town of Basel, rich in cultural history, offers a host of recreational and pleasurable experiences with its extensive cultural wealth and activities, as well as top-class cuisine and nightlife. It is home to the highest concentration of museums in the country. It is renowned for its beautiful Old Town, numerous museums, modern architecture and historical landmarks. Visitors can relax along the Rhine, explore the historic market square edged by a beautiful red sandstone Town Hall, sample the traditional Basel honey cake at the ‘Lackerli Huus’, and discover a host of stylish boutiques and antique book shops lining the streets. Other popular attractions: Botanical Gardens and the impressive 12th-century Gothic cathedral.
Your accommodation
The Passage
The Passage is conveniently situated in Basel's city centre, providing guests with easy access to shopping and points of interests. The elegant accommodation includes Smart TVs, free Wi-Fi, minibars and coffee machines. The hotel serves a delicious organic breakfast daily and also features an on-site terrace and bar. Guests also have access to a gym and a Finnish sauna.
Bern
Day 8 - 10
Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is centred around a crook in the lovely Aare River, a major river of the Swiss Plateau. Known for its magnificent fountains, sandstone facades, narrow cobbled streets, historic towers, and its gargantuan Gothic cathedral, the city is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. The remarkable design coherence of the historic old town has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List, particularly for its impressive six-kilometre stretch of fifteenth-century arcaded walkways lined with some charming shops and cafes. Bern is also a remarkably green city: in addition to the numerous public gardens and forests, including the beautiful Rose Garden with an unrivalled view over the skyline of the historic Old Town, the Münster (Minster) and the loop in the Aare river. Bern has everything you could ask for in a medieval European city - it is compact, central and brimming with cultural treasures and an old-world atmosphere.
Your accommodation
Hotel Kreuz Bern
Located in Bern, Switzerland, Hotel Kreuz Bern is a beautiful old townhouse situated within walking distance of the central train station, Bundeshaus and Zytglogge. Accommodation consists of 97 stylish guest rooms, each equipped with comfortable box-spring beds, high-quality oak floors, state-of-the-art wet rooms and air conditioning. A breakfast buffet with a rich selection of hot and cold dishes are offered daily. On the ground floor is the cosy restaurant Bärenhöfli, where guests can find Bernese specialities and light lunch menus alike. Additional amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi access, a coffee and tea station, a fitness centre and a rooftop terrace.
From$8,030
per personAccommodations
Transportation
24/7 support
Activities
Meals
Tourlane App
Travel plan
Flights
Flexible cancellation policies
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Plan with professionals who are explorers themselves.
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Excellent
Why plan with an expert?
200+
Plan with professionals who are explorers themselves.
32+ hours of time saved
Our experts plan and book for you.
14+ Bookings managed
Everything is bundled in one place and perfectly planned.
8+ Transfers coordinated
For optimal transport and comfort.
Excellent
Itinerary inspiration
Vienna to Salzburg, then across into Switzerland through Zurich, Basel, and Bern — the journey moves from imperial Austria into the measured elegance of the Swiss cities, and each stop has its own distinct character. The strudel baking course in Vienna and the Wachau Valley tour together give the Austrian section a range that a purely sightseeing itinerary wouldn't provide. The Wachau is one of the most compelling wine valleys in Central Europe, and tasting the Grüner Veltliner in a cellar above the Danube is a different experience from any restaurant list.
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One tip worth knowing about Basel: the city has one of the highest concentrations of world-class art museums per capita of any city in Europe, and most visitors don't know this before they arrive. The Kunstmuseum alone rewards a full morning, and the Fondation Beyeler just outside the city is among the finest private collections in the world.
Day 1–3: Vienna
Hotel: SO/Vienna Hotel
Three nights gives you the walking tour with the Imperial Palace, the Piaristenkeller dinner, the strudel baking course, and the Wachau day trip across four comfortable activities. Vienna's coffeehouses deserve at least one slow afternoon — Café Central or Café Landtmann reward an unhurried hour over a Melange in a way that no monument visit does.
Day 4: Salzburg
Hotel: Hotel Sacher Salzburg
One night at the Hotel Sacher, one of the Old Town's iconic addresses, with the Sound of Music tour and the riverside historic center filling a strong single day. Salzburg is compact enough that the Old Town, the fortress viewpoint, and the Getreidegasse are all reachable on foot from the hotel — the city works best when you move through it without a fixed pace.
Day 5–6: Zurich
Hotel: Central Plaza Hotel Zurich
Two nights with the guided walking tour, the lake cruise, and the museum visit across the two days. The Old Town lanes reward an evening walk without a plan — the Lindenhügel hill above the Limmat gives you the church spires and the lake in one view, and it's the right place to end a Zurich afternoon.
Day 7: Basel
Hotel: The Passage
One night in Basel with time to walk the Old Town and engage with the city's art and architectural character. The Mittlere Rheinbrücke, the medieval bridge across the Rhine, connects the two halves of the city and is worth crossing on foot in both directions.
Day 8–10: Bern
Hotel: Hotel Kreuz Bern
Two nights in Switzerland's capital, where the UNESCO-listed Old Town and its 3.7 miles of covered arcades reward a genuinely unhurried exploration. The rose garden above the city gives you the medieval roofline and the Bernese Alps behind it on a clear day — one of the more majestic views of any city on this itinerary.
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