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10-Day Germany, Switzerland & Northern Italy Itinerary: The Alpine Triangle
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Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertThe Salzburg day trip from Munich is a stronger editorial choice than it first appears, and it's one I always include on this itinerary. Arriving without luggage, with a full afternoon for the Old Town and fortress views, gives you Salzburg at its most relaxed and keeps the alpine context continuous. In Milan, keeping the La Scala Museum visit and the gourmet food experience on separate days is worth planning for; the city's musical and culinary identities each need full attention, and compressing both into a single afternoon means doing neither properly. For the Zurich leg, complete the lake cruise during the guided walking tour before any alpine excursions: the mountain panorama across Lake Zurich works as a preview of what's ahead rather than a recap of what's passed.
The Salzburg day trip from Munich is a stronger editorial choice than it first appears, and it's one I always include on this itinerary. Arriving without luggage, with a full afternoon for the Old Town and fortress views, gives you Salzburg at its most relaxed and keeps the alpine context continuous. In Milan, keeping the La Scala Museum visit and the gourmet food experience on separate days is worth planning for; the city's musical and culinary identities each need full attention, and compressing both into a single afternoon means doing neither properly. For the Zurich leg, complete the lake cruise during the guided walking tour before any alpine excursions: the mountain panorama across Lake Zurich works as a preview of what's ahead rather than a recap of what's passed.
Recommended route
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Munich
Day 1 - 3
Munich, the lively capital of Bavaria and the third-largest city in Germany, lies on the banks of the River Isar. A modern hub complete with state-of-the-art skyscrapers and an exciting nightlife scene, the city revels simultaneously in its traditional customs and its sense of innovation. Some of the phenomenal historical attractions include spectacular Schloss Nymphenburg and the grand Residenz Museum, along with countless others. Nicknamed ‘city of art and beer’, Munich is strewn with impressive and diverse galleries (top choices include the Kunstareal Art Quarter and other-worldly Pinakothek der Moderne) and offers sublime beer-tasting opportunities in a variety of wonderful beer houses and gardens. Locals claim this is the culinary capital of the country - make sure to visit the Viktualienmarkt and dedicate some time to the metropolis’ restaurants. Gorgeous parks, jaw-dropping sports venues, and world-famous festivals (including legendary Octoberfest) complete the package.
Your accommodation
Cortiina Hotel
A stay at Cortiina Hotel places you in the heart of Munich, steps from Hofbräuhaus and Beer and Oktoberfest Museum. This luxury hotel is 0.2 mi (0.4 km) from Marienplatz and 0.2 mi (0.3 km) from Viktualienmarkt.
Enjoy recreation amenities such as a 24-hour health club or take in the view from a terrace. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge).
Make yourself at home in one of the 75 air-conditioned rooms featuring iPod docking stations and minibars. LED televisions with cable programming provide entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Private bathrooms with showers feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks.
Your activity
Salzburg Day Trip
Experience the magic of Salzburg on this full-day excursion from Munich!
With a knowledgeable guide, explore the city’s historic Old Town on foot, visiting Mozart’s birthplace, strolling past the original Sound of Music filming locations, and admiring the beauty of Mirabell Palace and Gardens. Wander Salzburg’s charming streets and soak up the unique atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city.
After the guided tour, enjoy free time to shop for local specialties, sample delicious Austrian treats, or take the funicular (own expense) up to Hohensalzburg Fortress for breathtaking panoramic views over the city.
This day trip perfectly blends culture, history, and leisure, offering an unforgettable taste of one of Austria’s most enchanting cities.
Zurich
Day 4 - 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
A stay at Central Plaza Hotel places you in the heart of Zürich, within a 10-minute walk of Swiss National Museum and Bahnhofstrasse. This hotel is 0.5 mi (0.7 km) from Lindenhof and 1.4 mi (2.3 km) from Zürich Opera House.
Enjoy recreation amenities such as a health club or take in the view from a terrace. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and a television in a common area.
Make yourself at home in one of the 103 guestrooms featuring espresso makers. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks.
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
Milan
Day 7 - 10
The vibrant metropolis of Milan is the capital of Italy’s Lombardy region in northern Italy. Always at the forefront of international fashion, Milan’s sleek, glamorous facade has earned it a reputation for superficiality and excessive consumerism. However, beneath the surface lies a treasure trove of historical and architectural wonders—from its magnificent Gothic churches, Baroque mansions, and Art Nouveau palazzos to the striking modern skyscrapers of the Porta Nuova financial district. Must-see landmarks include the spectacular Milan Cathedral (Duomo), the glass-vaulted Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and of course, La Scala—one of the world’s most renowned opera houses. Milan offers something for everyone: those in search of high-end designer shopping will be more than satisfied, as will visitors interested in fascinating historical sites and extraordinary architectural achievements.
Your accommodation
Tivoli President Milano Hotel
A stay at Tivoli President Milano Hotel places you in the heart of Milan, within a 10-minute walk of Piazza del Duomo and Cathedral of Milan. This luxury hotel is 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and 0.3 mi (0.5 km) from Via Montenapoleone Fashion District.
Make use of convenient amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge). This hotel also features wedding services and a banquet hall.
Make yourself at home in one of the 239 guestrooms featuring minibars and flat-screen televisions. Your bed comes with down comforters and premium bedding. Satellite television is provided for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature rainfall showerheads and designer toiletries.
Your activity
Milan - Gourmet food - small group
Embark on a journey through Milan's culinary scene, where you'll savor dishes that have captivated VIPs worldwide. Venture beyond the tourist hotspots to uncover prestigious eateries favored by locals, offering a taste of Lombardy's sophisticated gastronomy handpicked by Milanese connoisseurs. Wander through the picturesque city center, pausing at distinctive restaurants and cafes. Along the way, delve into the intriguing tales, anecdotes, and secrets that have elevated haute cuisine to pop culture status!
Activity start time: 11:15 am
Meeting point: 15 minutes before departure at Piazza Cordusio (in front of Banca Intesa)
Group size: 12 pax
