Austria, Germany, and Switzerland: Castles, Culture & Captivating Nature

12 Day Tour of Vienna, Salzburg, Heidelberg and Lucerne

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Trip Map
Itinerary
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12 Days 11 Nights

Best Time: Jan-Dec

Nature Lovers

Castle & Palace Tours

See charming towns, dramatic castles, and stunning landscapes on this remarkable journey through the heart of Europe. This itinerary takes you from Vienna’s imperial splendor to Salzburg’s Baroque treasures, and then from Heidelberg’s old town to Lucerne’s elegant lakeside historic center. You’ll see some of Europe’s most storied palaces and castles, visiting Schönbrunn Palace, Neuschwanstein Castle, and Heidelberg Castle. Wander picturesque old towns, savor Swiss chocolates, and marvel at the Swiss Alps from Mount Pilatus. With detailed travel guidance via our mobile app, Go Real Travel ensures a seamless, enriching adventure.

Explore Schönbrunn Palace’s opulent rooms and vast gardens in Vienna.
Cruise the Danube River’s most scenic valley and an enchanting lake in the Bavarian Alps.
Discover Heidelberg Castle’s atmospheric ruins and stunning views over its Altstadt.
Experience the world’s steepest cog-wheel train ride up Mount Pilatus and be amazed by the views.
Enjoy a private guided tour of Lucerne, including the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge.

Explore Schönbrunn Palace’s opulent rooms and vast gardens in Vienna.
Cruise the Danube River’s most scenic valley and an enchanting lake in the Bavarian Alps.
Discover Heidelberg Castle’s atmospheric ruins and stunning views over its Altstadt.
Experience the world’s steepest cog-wheel train ride up Mount Pilatus and be amazed by the views.
Enjoy a private guided tour of Lucerne, including the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge.

Hofburg Palace

Castles & Chateaux

St Stephen’s Cathedral

Churches & Monasteries

Schönbrunn Palace & Zoo

Parks & Gardens

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Castles & Chateaux

Old Town

Architecture

Heidelberg Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Church of the Holy Spirit

Churches & Monasteries

Lake Lucerne

Natural Beauty

Old Town

Historic Landmarks

Must see sights

Hofburg Palace

Castles & Chateaux

St Stephen’s Cathedral

Churches & Monasteries

Schönbrunn Palace & Zoo

Parks & Gardens

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Castles & Chateaux

Old Town

Architecture

Heidelberg Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Church of the Holy Spirit

Churches & Monasteries

Lake Lucerne

Natural Beauty

Old Town

Historic Landmarks

Starting from

$2675

per person

4.8 (365 reviews)

Not included

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Day-By-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Vienna

Day 1

Arrive Vienna

To Be Determined

Arrival in Vienna Airport and Transfer to Hotel by Public Taxi

Vienna has one main airport, Vienna International Airport, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience. Uber is also available to those who have the app.

Day 1

Arrive Vienna

To Be Determined:

Taxi Transfer to Hotel

Mid-Day/Afternoon:

Ring Street

Late Afternoon/Early Evening:

Inner City

Day 1

Arrive Vienna

Day 1

Arrive Vienna

To Be Determined

Arrival in Vienna Airport and Transfer to Hotel by Public Taxi

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Along Vienna's Ringstraße (Ring Street)

The Ringstrasse, or the Ring Street, surrounds Vienna's old town where the city walls once stood until the 19th century. The Austro-Hungarian Empire was at the height of its prosperity at the time the walls were torn down, and so it lined the wide Ringstrasse with monumental buildings such as the neo-Gothic town hall and neo-Classical parliament buildling. A fun experience is to take a tram ride around the entire length of the Ringstrasse, soaking in the full richness of the spectacle.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Exploring Vienna's Inner City

When the Viennese say they are going “into the city”, they are talking about the Inner City (Innere Stadt). The Inner City corresponds to Vienna’s original medieval city, which was once surrounded by defensive walls that stood where the Ringstrasse (Ring Street) now runs. A warren of medieval alleyways crowded into the protected space between the walls, creating a dense network of pedestrian streets that remains to this day.

Day 2

Vienna

Day 2

Vienna

Day 2

Vienna

Day 2

Vienna

9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Guided Walk through Vienna's Inner City

This tour takes you back in history to explore the Vienna that stood within the old city walls. You will learn about the humble beginnings of Vienna before it became the capital of a great empire and one of the most important cities in Europe. You will discover how Vienna's early inhabitants lived and how they left their mark on the city and its beautiful Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Tour the Schönbrunn Palace

The magnificent Baroque palace of Schönbrunn is most famously associated with Empress Maria Theresa, who lived here surrounded by 16 little archdukes and duchesses who also happened to be her children. On your tour of the palace, you will see how Maria Theresa and other past imperial residents lived. No visit is complete without a stroll in the vast gardens surrounding the palace.

Early Evening/Evening

An Evening out in the Wine Village of Grinzing

Nothing better symbolizes the Viennese love of “gemütlichkeit” (roughly translated as coziness) than the wine villages and vineyards which hug the gentle slopes beneath the Vienna woods. They are home to wine taverns known as Heurigen. The most famous of the wine villages is Grinzing, which is easily reached from the city center by tram. Despite its closeness to the city center, a visit to Grinzing seems to transport you to the countryside, as quaint cottages and cozy old farmhouses create a charming village atmosphere.

Day 3

Vienna

Day 3

Vienna

Day 3

Vienna

Day 3

Vienna

Early Morning to Early Evening

Danube Cruise in the Scenic Wachau Valley

A one-and-a-half-hour train ride from Vienna brings you to the town of Melk, where you can tour the vast Melk Abbey. From there you can begin a 22-mile cruise through the Wachau Valley, considered the most beautiful stretch of the entire Danube River. You'll pass medieval castle ruins, hills covered in vineyards, and several charming villages, where you can debark to try some wine or take a hike up to a castle. The valley is also a perfect destination for cyclers and winery tours.

Evening/Late Evening

Dine with locals in the Spittelberg Quarter

One of the most enjoyable places for an evening out in Vienna is the Spittelberg quarter. Its narrow lanes are filled with pleasant traditional restaurants. The Spittelberg Quarter’s history stretches back to the 1600’s when the Austrian rulers imported artisans and servants from Hungary, Croatia, and other subject lands to help serve the Emperor’s court.

Day 4

Vienna to Salzburg

Day 4

Vienna to Salzburg

Day 4

Vienna to Salzburg

Day 4

Vienna to Salzburg

10:40 AM

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport

Your hotel front desk will also be happy to arrange a taxi pick up for you. Vienna taxis are generally reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. Your itinerary will provide more information on ordering a taxi, as well as detailed information on navigating the train station and finding your train, making the whole process simple and stress-free.

11:38 - 14:08

Rail Journey to Salzburg

The scenic journey on the comfortable train will take about two and a half hours. The journey is aboard a comfortable, modern train with wi-fi, provided either by the Austrian rail company or a private rail carrier called Westbahn. The verdant rolling countryside of northern Austria makes for a pleasant voyage, and on clear days, you can also enjoy a view on the Alps in the distance from the left side of the train. You also have detailed instructions below for the voyage, as well as a translation and explanation of your tickets in your ticket booklet.

2:08 PM

Arrival and Transfer by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains arrive in Salzburg Main Station (Salzburg Hbf) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option, and buses pickup directly in front of the station. Taxis are available near the station entrance and are generally honest. Uber is also available for those with the app.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Explore the Altstadt

Salzburg's Altstadt, which simply means Old Town, is one of the world's most charming city centers. It possesses an amazing wealth of Baroque buildings, as its 17th and 18th centuries archbishop rulers focused on beautifying their town rather than fighting foreign wars like neighboring states. A series of squares runs through the old town, and most you will find dominated by a beautiful church. Throughout the Altstadt, you will find markets, pleasant shops, and cozy restaurants.

Early Evening/Evening

Concert or Other Cultural Event in Salzburg

Birthplace of Mozart, home to the world's most prestigious music festival (the Salzburger Festspiele), and forever associated with The Sound of Music, Salzburg is practically synonymous with music. The city fully embraces this heritage and today there are abundant opportunities to enjoy performances of classical music in the city. While it possesses several fine concert halls, its palaces, churches, and gardens also host performances and often provide the perfect venue.

Day 5

Salzburg

Day 5

Salzburg

Day 5

Salzburg

Day 5

Salzburg

9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Guided Walking Tour of Salzburg

Salzburg is simply overwhelming in all the best ways. It is alive with fascinating history, grandiose and sublime architecture fills every street and square, culture and music permeate the atmosphere, and it is surrounded by breath-taking natural scenery. This guided tour with a local will provide the context needed to bring all of this beauty into perspective, and to connect the physical city to its history, culture, and environment.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Visit to the Hohensalzburg Fortress

The Festung Hohensalzburg dominates Salzburg, appearing simultaneously formidable and enticing. From one side of the fortress you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and from the other a beautiful view of the nearby Alps. In addition to touring the fortress staterooms, you can also visit the Fortress Museum, a Marionette Museum, the Torture Chamber, an observation tower, and more.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Explore the Neustadt and Mirabell Palace Gardens

On the right bank of Salzach river lies the Neustadt (New Town). Although it may be just a bit newer than the Altstadt, it still boasts hundreds of years of history in it's winding and narrow Medieval lanes. The Mirabell Palace, a Baroque masterpiece built in 1606 by the Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg for his concubine, is the most famous site in the Neustadt. As impressive as the palace and its interior are, the elaborate gardens surrounding the palace are more famous than the palace itself.

Day 6

Salzburg

Day 6

Salzburg

Day 6

Salzburg

Day 6

Salzburg

Morning

Excursion to the Königssee (King's Lake)

The breathtakingly beautiful Königssee (King's Lake) is the deepest lake in the Alps and is surrounded by steep mountains. Taking a cruise on the lake is an unforgettable experience. The boat will take you to the red-onion domed Kloster St. Bartolomä, where you then take a relaxing and enchanting walk along the forested lakeshore. For serious hikers, you can also continue on the boat to the far end of the lake, and then take a hike to a dramatic waterfall.

Afternoon to Early Evening

Excursion to Berchtesgaden

About 20 miles from Salzburg, just across the German border, lies Berchtesgaden. This charming Bavarian town is nestled amidst a dramatic Alpine valley, and is actually located within a national park. Berchtesgaden boasts charming market squares, imposing churches, and even a medieval palace. There are also plenty of traditional Bavarian restaurants and shops selling local crafts and art.

Day 7

Salzburg to Heidelberg

Day 7

Salzburg to Heidelberg

Day 7

Salzburg to Heidelberg

Day 7

Salzburg to Heidelberg

7:10 AM

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains depart from Salzburg Main Station (Salzburg Hbf) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

08:00 - 12:44

Rail Journey to Heidelberg

Tickets and seat reservations for this scenic 4hr45min direct journey to Heidelberg are included with the purchase of an itinerary. In most cases, the journey will include a transfer in Munich and will be aboard some of Central Europe's nicest and most modern trains - the RailJet and ICE (Inter City Express). The green countryside of Austria and Bavaria makes for a pleasant voyage, and on clear days, you can also enjoy a view on the Alps in the distance.

12:44 PM

Arrival and Transfer by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains arrive in Heidelberg Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option, and the local tram system picks up directly in front of the station. Taxis are available at all rail stations and are generally honest, although you can also arrange a private transfer if you prefer. Uber is not yet available in Heidelberg.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Hike Along the Philosophenweg

Enjoy a gentle hike up into the hills above Heidelberg from the Old Bridge to get magnificent views of the castle on the other side, then trek up further to visit the wonderfully atmospheric ruins of St. Michael's ruins and Thingstätte, the pseudo-Grecian amphitheater built by the Nazis in the mid-1930s to stage opera and theater plays extolling the virtues of the Aryan race.

Early Evening/Evening

Explore the Old Town (Altstadt)

Heidelberg's Altstadt (i.e. its Old Town) is full of cafes, restaurants, and pubs, and is almost always abuzz with foot traffic. With one of Germany's most prestigious universities partially located within the Altstadt, it also has a youthful and international vibe which makes it seem especially vibrant. The baroque buildings which line the market squares and quaint sidestreets by themselves make the Altstadt undeniably charming. But factor in its perfect setting, wedged between the river and forested green hills dominated by a castle, and it is no wonder it is one of Germany's most photographed locales.

Day 8

Heidelberg

Day 8

Heidelberg

Day 8

Heidelberg

Day 8

Heidelberg

Morning/Mid-Day

Tour Heidelberg Castle and Königstuhl

Heidelberg has the fortune to have some uniquely atmospheric castle ruins and is home to the oldest yet most modern funicular railway in Germany. Use this funicular to take a trip up Heidelberg Castle and stroll through the castle gardens. Continue up to the top of the hill where you will reach the Königstuhl to experience spectacular views of Heidelberg and the Neckar River valley.

1:45 PM - 5:45 PM

Guided Walking Tour of the Heidelberg's Altstadt and Castle

On this 4 hour tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Heidelberg and help you understand what makes this city so unique. Sites visited will include the Heidelberg University, the Old Bridge, Altstadt, Town Hall and Heidelberg Castle.

Early Evening/Evening

Dining Out in Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a fun city to enjoy at night as the city streets fill with locals, tourists, and students from Heidelberg University. Heidelberg has a plethora of bars, cafes, and restaurants, sure to please any visitor. Most are located within the Old Town, so it is easy to hop between spots and sample all the city has on offer.

Day 9

Heidelberg to Lucerne

Day 9

Heidelberg to Lucerne

Day 9

Heidelberg to Lucerne

Day 9

Heidelberg to Lucerne

9:25 AM

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains depart from Heidelberg Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option, and the local tram network stops directly in front of the station. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is not yet available in Heidelberg.

10:25 - 10:37, 10:46 - 12:55, 13:03 - 14:05

Rail Journey to Lucerne

This scenic journey requires about four hours, and will also include one to two connections, in either Mannheim, Basel, and/or Karlsruhe. In most cases, you will travel on a EuroCity or InterCity train, which is a modern and comfortable train with air conditioning and usually a good wifi connection. While not taking you through the high mountains, this train ride will take you through the charming countryside of the southern Rhine Valley, where you will travel alongside the famous Black Forest, and then into the beautiful Swiss landscape before arriving in Lucerne.

2:05 PM

Arrival in Lucerne and Self-Arranged Taxi Transfer to Hotel

Upon arrival in Lucerne, you will exit the rail station and proceed to the taxi stand where you will find taxis waiting for arriving passengers. Taxis in Lucerne are generally reliable and honest and are less expensive than using a pre-arranged pick up service for your transfer to the hotel. Detailed arrival information and instructions for taking a taxi are provided in the Full-Length itinerary with the purchase of an itinerary.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Explore Lucerne's Old Town on the North Bank

Wander the Old Town on the north side of the Reuss River and discover the intricately cobbled squares and exquisitely preserved architecture of the townhouses before walking along part of the fortified Musegg city walls from tower to tower. Further north of the river you'll come across the famously heart-rending sculpture of the Löwendenkmal (Lion Monument), built to commemorate Swiss soldiers who fought and died defending Louis XVI during the French Revolution.

Day 10

Lucerne

Day 10

Lucerne

Day 10

Lucerne

Day 10

Lucerne

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Private Walking Tour of Lucerne

During this 2 hour guided private tour you will take in all the major highlights of Lucerne including: Lion Monument, Chapel Bridge, the Old Town and the Jesuit Church. Your professional guide will tell you about the fascinating history of the town and why Lucerne is a favorite destination for the Swiss and foreign visitors alike. You will also enjoy stunning views around Lake Lucerne, especially of the city's mountain, Mount Pilatus.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Tour Lucerne's Old Town on the South Bank

Explore Lucerne's Old Town on the south bank of the Reuss River, including its iconic Chapel Bridge and Jesuit Church. Close to the station you'll also find two of Switzerland's many premier league art galleries, or the city's most relaxing lakeside park. An enjoyable short hike further south along the lakefront will lead you to the exquisite villa where the composer Richard Wagner spent his last years.

Early Evening/Evening

Dining Out in Lucerne

Lucerne affords some really interesting culinary options with a focus on homegrown, handmade and freshly foraged that help dispell the age-old notion that Swiss cuisine is only about chocolate-box cliches and high cholesterol counts resulting from heavy cheese-based dishes like fondue, rosti, and raclette. Make use of the list of our restaurant and cafe recommendations included in the Full Itinerary to treat yourself to an evening out on the town and discover real Swiss cooking at its best.

Day 11

Lucerne

Day 11

Lucerne

Day 11

Lucerne

Day 11

Lucerne

Early Morning to Afternoon

Self Guided Excursion to Mount Pilatus by Cog-Wheel Train

Ride the steepest rack-railway in the world at a gradient of nearly 48 percent from Alpnachstad up the giant mountain of Mt Pilatus that looms over the city of Lucerne, or glide up the other side on a gondola from Kriens. The highest point, Tomlishorn, with superlative views of Lake Lucerne, is only 30min on foot from the hotels and restaurants near the top.

Day 12

Depart Lucerne

Day 12

Depart Lucerne

Day 12

Depart Lucerne

Day 12

Depart Lucerne

To Be Determined

Rail or Taxi Journey from Lucerne to Zurich Airport

The most affordable way to reach the airport is via train from the Lucerne rail station. In most cases, your itinerary will include a Swiss Travel Pass, which covers the cost of this scenic journey to Zurich Airport, which takes just over 1 hour. If you prefer, you can also take a taxi or book a pre-arranged transfer. The journey by car takes only about 45 minutes. Directions and instructions for either option are included in the Full Itinerary, so you can enjoy a stress-free trip to the airport.

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Austria, Germany, and Switzerland: Castles, Culture & Captivating Nature

12 Day Tour of Vienna, Salzburg, Heidelberg and Lucerne

$2675

Secure Your Customizable Trip Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Craft Your Own Itinerary Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.

Trip Map & Itinerary

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Arrival in Vienna Airport and Transfer to Hotel by Public Taxi

Secure Your Customizable Trip
Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Craft Your Own Itinerary
Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.