Rhine and Alpine Adventures in Germany and Switzerland

14 Day Tour of Frankfurt, Munich, Lucerne, Interlaken and Geneva

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Trip Map
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14 Days 13 Nights

Best Time: Jan-Dec

Day Cruises

Cultural Exploration

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of southern Germany and Switzerland, filled with breathtaking day cruises and explorations of stunning cities and landscapes. Cruise the scenic Rhine River, admire the panoramic views of Lake Lucerne, and delve into the medieval charm of Munich's Altstadt. Discover the alpine beauty of Interlaken and the majestic Jungfrau, and savor the rich German cuisine in traditional beer gardens. With private guided tours, immersive self-guided excursions, and detailed travel guidance through our mobile app, this trip promises an immersive and seamless travel experience.

Enjoy a blend of nature & history as you cruise beneath the dramatic Rheinfels Castle on the Rhine.
Explore the historic Munich’s Altstadt and enjoy a hearty meal at the Augustiner Keller beer garden.
Ride the world's steepest cogwheel train to the summit of Mt Pilatus for unparalleled alpine vistas.
Take a private walking tour of Lucerne, crossing the iconic Chapel Bridge over Lake Lucerne.
Cruise the clear blue waters of Lake Geneva, surrounded by picturesque mountain scenery.

Enjoy a blend of nature & history as you cruise beneath the dramatic Rheinfels Castle on the Rhine.
Explore the historic Munich’s Altstadt and enjoy a hearty meal at the Augustiner Keller beer garden.
Ride the world's steepest cogwheel train to the summit of Mt Pilatus for unparalleled alpine vistas.
Take a private walking tour of Lucerne, crossing the iconic Chapel Bridge over Lake Lucerne.
Cruise the clear blue waters of Lake Geneva, surrounded by picturesque mountain scenery.

Frankfurt Cathedral

Churches & Monasteries

Eiserner Steg Bridge

Architecture

Old Town

Architecture

Residence Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Lake Lucerne

Natural Beauty

Old Town

Historic Landmarks

Unterseen

Small Towns

Interlaken Monastery & Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Old Town

Historic Landmarks

Must see sights

Frankfurt Cathedral

Churches & Monasteries

Eiserner Steg Bridge

Architecture

Old Town

Architecture

Residence Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Lake Lucerne

Natural Beauty

Old Town

Historic Landmarks

Unterseen

Small Towns

Interlaken Monastery & Castle

Castles & Chateaux

Old Town

Historic Landmarks

Starting from

$3885

per person

4.8 (365 reviews)

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Day-By-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Frankfurt

Day 1

Arrive Frankfurt

To Be Determined

Arrival in Frankfurt Airport and Transfer by Taxi or Train

Frankfurt has one main airport, Frankfurt Airport, where most visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience. The cheapest and fastest way to reach central Frankfurt is by train, as there is a train station located within the airport (just follow the signs). The highspeed InterCity trains, Regional trains, and SBahn trains all have direct routes from the airport to the main train station in Frankfurt (Frankfurt Hbf). Tickets for the ICE trains cost about 15 EUR while tickets for Regional trains and Sbahn are only about 5 EUR. The journey takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes. From the Frankfurt main rail station, you can take a much cheaper taxi or Uber to your hotel, or perhaps even walk. Please note that if flying into the somewhat deceptively named Frankfurt-Hahn Airport, you will need to arrange bus or other transportation to Frankfurt. This airport is actually located about a 90 minute drive from central Frankfurt.

Day 1

Arrive Frankfurt

To Be Determined:

Airport Transfer

Mid-Day/Afternoon:

North & South Banks

Day 1

Arrive Frankfurt

Day 1

Arrive Frankfurt

To Be Determined

Arrival in Frankfurt Airport and Transfer by Taxi or Train

Mid-Day/Afternoon

North & South River Banks of the Main

You can explore Frankfurt's Financial District and Jewish museums on the northern bank of the Main River and then spend some time walking along the river in Nizza Park. Once you're ready, cross the pedestrian Iron Bridge, weighted down with love locks, to the South Bank and Sachsenhausen, a district of Frankfurt that is renowned for its riverside museums dedicated to the arts and film as well as its lively restaurants and nightlife.

Day 2

Frankfurt

Day 2

Frankfurt

Day 2

Frankfurt

Day 2

Frankfurt

Morning to Afternoon

Cruise or Cycle Up The Rhine Gorge

Board a riverboat from the town of Rüdesheim and take a cruise northwards up the incomparable Rhine River Gorge wreathed on either side with vineyards groaning with Reisling and Pinot Noir grapes, and colonized with impossibly romantic chateaux and castle ruins. Alternatively, hire a bicycle and pedal up the gorge, stopping off at rustic villages along the way, before heading back for a well-earned glass of the local wine.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Touring the Frankfurt City Center

Frankfurt survived the ravages of WWII to resurrect itself as the financial capital of continental Europe and combines traditional timber German buildings with modern glass and metal skyscrapers. Discover Frankfurt's New Old Town with a square that is lined with reconstructed timber houses. Surrounding Altstadt is the Innenstadt, the beating heart of both Frankfurt's and Germany’s finance industry, as well as being a business district full of bars, restaurants, and upmarket clothing shops. While there, enjoy a breathtaking view of Frankfurt and its surroundings from the Main Tower restaurant and observation deck.

Day 3

Frankfurt to Munich

Day 3

Frankfurt to Munich

Day 3

Frankfurt to Munich

Day 3

Frankfurt to Munich

8:55 AM

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains depart from Frankfurt hbf (i.e. Frankfurt Main Station) 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.

09:54 - 13:06

Rail Journey Frankfurt to Munich

Your journey to Munich should take a little over 3 hours. Most journeys will be on the modern and comfortable Euro City trains. After leaving Frankfurt, you will pass through the German state of Hesse, and then travel through the beautiful countryside of Bavaria on your way to Munich.

1:06 PM

Arrival and Transfer by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains arrive in Müchen 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 - there is a subway and local rail station co-located with the train station. Taxis are available at all rail stations and are generally honest. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

Afternoon to Early Evening

Exploring Munich's Altstadt (i.e. the Old Town)

Munich boasts a large old town (Altstadt) with many beautiful historic buildings. Sometimes called the world's largest village, it is a perfect place to wander. You will discover many Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings, as well as several stunning examples of modern architecture. Pleasant cafes, beer halls, cozy restaurants, and great shopping all add to the charming atmosphere.

Early Evening/Evening

Visit to the Augustiner Keller

This vast beer garden under leafy chestnut trees is immensely popular with the locals, so you can study the lederhosen-clad men and dirndl attired women at close quarters while quaffing the Augustiner's own Edelstaff beer from your Maßkrug (one-liter glass beer mug) and wolfing down a plate stacked high with Bavarian sausage and mashed potato.

Day 4

Munich

Day 4

Munich

Day 4

Munich

Day 4

Munich

9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Guided Walk Tour of Historic Munich

Munich contains many reminders of a long and varied history but also encompasses the modern features of a strong and vibrant city. The insights of a local help make sense of the traditions, trends, and promises of Bavaria's Capital - sometimes referred to as the city of laptops and lederhosen. On this tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Munich and point out the many hidden treasures.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

A Visit to Munich's Residence Palace

The Munich Residenz was the seat of Bavaria's Dukes and Kings from the middle ages until 1918. Originally a medieval castle, it was transformed over the centuries into a beautiful palace. Today it is open to the public and you can explore its magnificent interiors, numerous courtyards, and elegant garden. The living quarters of the royal family have been transformed into a museum which provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Kings and Queens. You can also peruse numerous jewels, gold objects, and other precious items which are held in the Residenz Schatzkammer (treasury).

Afternoon to Early Evening

Stroll through the English Garden

The English Garden is one of Europe's largest parks; in fact, it is larger than New York's Central Park. While it is called the "English Garden" after the style of the park, it was actually designed by an American-Englishman and is now a symbol of the very Bavarian city of Munich. The park is a perfect place to escape the city for a long stroll, where you can enjoy the natural scenery and the people watching.

Early Evening/Evening

Dining out in Maxvorstadt

Maxvorstadt is not just Munich’s most central nightlife hotspot, it’s one of the most historically fascinating neighborhoods in all of Bavaria. The area is often called the “Brains of Munich” for its concentration of arts and education centers, including seven universities and several museums and galleries. It’s a lively spot from day to evening to be sure, with a diversity of cozy bars, restaurants, and cafes appealing to the large student population and foreign visitors.

Day 5

Munich

Day 5

Munich

Day 5

Munich

Day 5

Munich

Early Morning to Late Afternoon

Self Guided Excursion to Lake Chiemsee

Also known as the 'Bavarian Sea', the majestic Lake Chiemsee is the largest lake in Bavaria with three beautiful islands which all benefit from regular ferry connections to the mainland. King Ludwig II built yet another grand palace, Herrenchiemsee Palace (also known as the Bavarian Versailles), on Herrenchiemsee island, while Fraueninsel island has an 8th-century Benedictine convent with some of the best Bavarian restaurants around and Krautinsel island is uninhabited.

Early Evening/Evening

Concert or Other Cultural Event in Munich

Munich, as the capital of Bavaria and the third largest city in Germany, is one of the country's leading locations for classical concerts and opera. Classical music lovers can enjoy a wide range of international soloists, conductors, chamber ensembles, and top orchestras, including its own world-class Munich Philharmonic, which attracts top musicians from all over the world. With performance venues such as the National Theater and Cuvilliés Theater, a concert in Munich can be as much a feast for the eyes as for the ears.

Day 6

Munich to Lucerne

Day 6

Munich to Lucerne

Day 6

Munich to Lucerne

Day 6

Munich to Lucerne

Morning

The Birth of Nazism: the Königsplatz & Documentation Center

Munich is the city where the National Socialist German Workers' Party (NSDAP), or Nazi Party, first took root. As the Nazis came into power, the Königsplatz was paved over and transformed into a perfect backdrop for staging their militaristic spectacles. Many of the physical changes they made to the space endure to this day. The history of the birth of German National Socialism to its horrific end in 1945 is brilliantly captured and displayed at the National Socialist Documentation Center which is located on the square.

11:55 AM

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport or Walk

Most trains depart from Müchen 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.

12:55 - 16:57, 17:10 - 17:51

Rail Journey to Lucerne

This scenic journey will take about five hours. In most cases, you will travel on modern EuroCity train from Munich to Zurich. This train ride will take you through the beautiful Bavarian countryside before crossing the border into Switzerland. You will then continue through the exquisite Swiss countryside, changing trains in Zurich, and traveling alongside beautiful lakes and mountains.

5:51 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.

Day 7

Lucerne

Day 7

Lucerne

Day 7

Lucerne

Day 7

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 to Early Evening

Lake Cruise & Hike to the Burgenstock Cliffs

The Bürgenstock cliff walk has been described as one of the most beautiful mountain promenades in the world. The path was constructed from 1900 to 1905 and includes meadows, forests, tunnels, and even the Hammetschwand Panorama Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor elevator. Along the trail, you will find breathtaking views of Lake Lucerne and Mount Rigi. The Cliff Walk trail loop is about 5km or 3 miles long and is rated as an easy hike. This child-friendly route is complete with fences and barriers, making it enjoyable for the whole family.

Day 8

Lucerne

Day 8

Lucerne

Day 8

Lucerne

Day 8

Lucerne

Morning to Late 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.

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 9

Lucerne to Interlaken

Day 9

Lucerne to Interlaken

Day 9

Lucerne to Interlaken

Day 9

Lucerne to Interlaken

9:05 AM

Taxi Rail Drop-Off at Lucerne Rail Station

Lucerne taxis are generally reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. If you are picked up one hour prior to departure, you should have plenty of time to catch your train.

10:06 - 11:55

Journey from Lucerne to Interlaken by Rail

A Swiss Travel Pass for this scenic direct journey to Interlaken, that takes just under 2 hours, are included with the purchase of an itinerary. Detailed directions and instructions that make the trip easy and stress-free are also included in the Full Itinerary.

11:55 AM

Rail Pickup by Taxi

Upon arrival in Interlaken, you will exit the rail station and proceed to the taxi stand where you will find taxis waiting for arriving passengers. Taxis in Interlaken 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 purchase of an itinerary.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Self-Guided Tour of Interlaken's Historic Center

Although the overwhelming number of visitors to Interlaken come to the city to access the mountains throughout the Bernese Oberland in general and the Jungfrau region in particular, there are nevertheless a number of attractions in the town worth seeing, like the castle, the Unterseen (Old Town) district, and the Museum of Tourism.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Self-Guided Excursion Up Harder Kulm

Travel by funicular from close to the Old Town in Interlaken to the Harder Kulm viewing platform at 1,322 meters above sea level from where you're able to soak up majestic panoramas of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, or admire the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. The castle-like the Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant sometimes hosts folk music and dancing. The hike down, should you choose to go that way, will take around one hour.

Day 10

Interlaken

Day 10

Interlaken

Day 10

Interlaken

Day 10

Interlaken

Early Morning to Late Afternoon

Self-Guided Excursion up Jungfrau

Journey directly through the famous Eiger Mountain to what the Swiss called "The Top of Europe", the icy, windswept gap in the mountain ridges known as Jungfraujoch at 3,454m/11,332ft just below the summit of Jungfrau. The train ride to the top is not cheap, but it's the highest train station in Europe and definitely an unforgettable experience.

Day 11

Interlaken to Geneva

Day 11

Interlaken to Geneva

Day 11

Interlaken to Geneva

Day 11

Interlaken to Geneva

Early Morning to Mid-Day

Lake Thun, Self-Guided

Surrounded by dazzling mountain scenery and a staccato of smart villages, Lake Thun is one of the two highly attractive waterways sandwiching the town of Interlaken that offers the opportunity of a relaxing boat ride from one end to the other. After disembarkation you can wander Thun's low-lying Old Town and its fairy-tale turreted castle before returning to Interlaken by train. Travel by boat and train is free with the Swiss Travel Pass included in your Full Itinerary.

3:15 PM

Taxi Dropoff at Rail Station

Interlaken taxis are reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. If you are picked up 45 minutes prior to departure, you should have plenty of time to catch your train.

16:00 - 16:52, 17:04 - 19:00

Rail Journey to Geneva

A Swiss Travel Pass for this approximately 3h rail journey from Interlaken to Geneva are included in the purchase of the itinerary package. Detailed directions and instructions that make the trip easy and stress-free are also included in the Full Itinerary.

7:00 PM

Arrival in Geneva and Self-Arranged Taxi Transfer to Hotel

Upon arrival in Geneva, you will exit the rail station and proceed to the taxi stand where you will find taxis waiting for arriving passengers. Taxis in Geneva 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 purchase of an itinerary.

Day 12

Geneva

Day 12

Geneva

Day 12

Geneva

Day 12

Geneva

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Privately Guided Walking Tour of Geneva

Your private guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you for a 2-hour walk through the center of Geneva. On this walk, you will visit Bastions Park where you’ll see the Reformation Wall, built in 1909 to celebrate religious reform in Europe. You'll discover special places related to people like Jean Calvin and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, or even presidents of the United States like Woodrow Wilson or Bill Clinton. You will also visit the peaceful Old Town with its majestic St. Peter’s Cathedral, the Jardin d’Anglais, to admire one of Patek Philippe’s most famous works, and the surprising, delightful Flower Clock. The tour will end at the Nations Park, where you will see the United Nations Organization Headquarters.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Self Guided Tour of Old Town Geneva

Geneva’s Old Town, overlooking Lake Geneva, is a winding maze of narrow streets and small squares that are filled with cozy cafes and quaint restaurants. At the very center of the Old Town, or Vieille Ville, is Bourg-de-Four Square where the ancient Romans used to trade goods in the marketplace. The Maison Tavel, St. Pierre’s Cathedral, and the Old Arsenal are among some of the top places to visit in the city’s historic Old Town area. Be sure to explore the rich history concentrated in this part of the city.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon

Boat Cruise on Lake Geneva

Experience Lake Geneva up close and personal with a short cruise on the lake. There are many options available including the Geneva Tour or the Mermaid Tour. No visit to Geneva is complete without a cruise on the largest lake in Europe.

Early Evening/Evening

Dining Out in Geneva

Geneva naturally offers all the traditional Swiss dishes that you've heard of, like Fondue (melted cheese in which you dip pieces of bread), Raclette (melted cheese with potatoes, from Wallis), Rösti (potatoes), Spätzli and typical Swiss Cervelat (a big sausage served with a "Bürli", piece of bread). But since it also is very multicultural, you can find food from a lot of foreign cultures as well.

Day 13

Geneva

Day 13

Geneva

Day 13

Geneva

Day 13

Geneva

Morning to Late Afternoon

Self Guided Excursion to Chamonix

Chamonix is a city of superlatives perfectly situated at the base of the highest peak of not only the Alps but in all of Europe, Mont Blanc. This French town has much to offer outdoor enthusiasts. For those who wish to get up close and personal with the mighty mountain, take the highest vertical cable car to Aiguille du Midi to come face to face with Mont Blanc and Step into the Void. See the largest glacier in France, Mer de Glace and walk through ice caves that have been carved into the glacier. Then explore the town center filled with outdoor shops, high-end boutiques, and traditional restaurants.

Day 14

Depart Geneva

Day 14

Depart Geneva

Day 14

Depart Geneva

Day 14

Depart Geneva

To Be Determined

Taxi Dropoff at Geneva Airport

Geneva taxis are always reliable and honest, so taking a taxi is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. Your hotel will be happy to arrange a pick up for you. If you are picked up about 2.5 hours before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with a little over two hours to spare. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen minutes or so.

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Rhine and Alpine Adventures in Germany and Switzerland

14 Day Tour of Frankfurt, Munich, Lucerne, Interlaken and Geneva

$3885

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 Frankfurt Airport and Transfer by Taxi or Train

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.