Explore Munich & Switzerland in 10 Days: Perfect Alpine Escape

10 Day Tour of Munich, Zurich and Lucerne

Overview
Trip Map
Itinerary
Inclusions
Reviews

A blue mountain train ascending above the clouds with stunning peaks in the background.

10 Days 9 Nights

Best Time: Jan-Dec

Nature Lovers

History Buffs

Visit Munich, Zurich, and Lucerne on an enchanting 10-day trip combining natural wonders and historic marvels. Experience the Swiss and Bavarian Alps on three excursions, while also getting to know the cities intimately. From the architectural grandeur and lively beer gardens of Munich to the quaint streets and panoramic vistas in Zurich, and the serene beauty of Lucerne with its mountainous backdrop and crystal-clear lake, the tour is meticulously designed for the discerning explorer. Private guided tours in each city ensure personal discoveries, while our mobile app offers detailed travel guidance, making the journey easy and stress-free.

Take a guided tour in Munich's historic core and relax with locals in its famous beer gardens.
Discover Zurich's medieval riches and the vibrant life along the Limmat River on a guided walk.
Venture out of Munich to Neuschwanstein, the fairy-tale castle of half-mad Bavarian King Ludwig II.
In Lucerne, a private tour takes you to the Lion Monument, Chapel Bridge, and Lake Lucerne's shores.
Ascend Mount Pilatus on the world's steepest cog-wheel train to witness a panorama of Swiss Alps.

Take a guided tour in Munich's historic core and relax with locals in its famous beer gardens.
Discover Zurich's medieval riches and the vibrant life along the Limmat River on a guided walk.
Venture out of Munich to Neuschwanstein, the fairy-tale castle of half-mad Bavarian King Ludwig II.
In Lucerne, a private tour takes you to the Lion Monument, Chapel Bridge, and Lake Lucerne's shores.
Ascend Mount Pilatus on the world's steepest cog-wheel train to witness a panorama of Swiss Alps.

Old Town

Architecture

Residence Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Deutsches Museum

Museums & Galleries

The English Gardens

Parks & Gardens

Fraumunster

Churches & Monasteries

Lake Zurich

Natural Beauty

Chapel Bridge

Natural Beauty

Lake Lucerne

Natural Beauty

Old Town

Historic Landmarks

Must see sights

Old Town

Architecture

Residence Palace

Castles & Chateaux

Deutsches Museum

Museums & Galleries

The English Gardens

Parks & Gardens

Fraumunster

Churches & Monasteries

Lake Zurich

Natural Beauty

Chapel Bridge

Natural Beauty

Lake Lucerne

Natural Beauty

Old Town

Historic Landmarks

Starting from

$3095

per person

4.8 (365 reviews)

Not included

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

Start

Travelers

Preferred Hotel Stars

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

Trip Map & Itinerary

Enable/Disable Map Scrolling

Click to See Map

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Munich

Day 1

Arrive Munich

To Be Determined

Arrival in Munich Airport and Transfer by Taxi or Train

Munich has one main airport, Munich 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. The cheapest and fastest way to reach central Munich from is by train. The regional "S-bahn" trains delivers you from the airport train station (just follow the signs) directly to Munich's main station (München hbf) in the center of the city, from where you can easily hail a taxi that will be much less expensive than from the airport.

Day 1

Arrive Munich

To Be Determined:

Transfer from Airport

Mid-Day/Afternoon:

Residence Palace

Early Evening:

Maxvorstadt

Day 1

Arrive Munich

Day 1

Arrive Munich

To Be Determined

Arrival in Munich Airport and Transfer by Taxi or Train

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).

Early 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 2

Munich

Day 2

Munich

Day 2

Munich

Day 2

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

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 3

Munich

Day 3

Munich

Day 3

Munich

Day 3

Munich

Early Morning to Afternoon

Self Guided Excursion to Neuschwanstein Castle

An inspiration for the Disney Castles, numerous fairy tales, and countless dreamers, the Castle of Neuschwanstein is perhaps the most famous castle in the world. The eccentric Bavarian King Ludwig II created this amazing palace in the 19th century as an idyllic version of a medieval castle. You can visit by taking a guided tour from Munich or traveling independently by train and bus. In addition to enjoying spectacular views you can take a guided tour of the castle interior which is well worth the experience (but keep in mind that there a lots of steps to negotiate). If traveling independentally, be sure to book your interior tour reservations at least two days in advance.

Day 4

Munich to Zurich

Day 4

Munich to Zurich

Day 4

Munich to Zurich

Day 4

Munich to Zurich

Morning/Mid-Day

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.

1:55 PM

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.

14:55 - 18:57

Rail Journey to Zurich

Your journey should take about four hours in total. You'll travel on a modern and comfortable train with air conditioning and usually a good wifi connection. The train takes you through the beautiful Bavarian countryside before crossing the border into Switzerland and shortly arriving in Zurich.

6:57 PM

Arrival in Zurich and Self-Arranged Taxi Transfer to Hotel

Upon arrival in Zurich, you will exit the rail station and proceed to the taxi stand where you will find taxis waiting for arriving passengers. Taxis in Zurich are generally reliable and honest and are less expensive than using a pre-arranged pick up service for your transfer to the hotel. You can also use the Uber App if you have it installed on your phone. Detailed arrival information and instructions for taking a taxi are provided in the Full Itinerary.

Day 5

Zurich

Day 5

Zurich

Day 5

Zurich

Day 5

Zurich

9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Private Introductory tour of the Zurich Old Town

During this 2.5-hour private walking tour, you will learn how Switzerland became Switzerland, and why Zurich is its most populated and important city. The walk towards the lake will take you to the Lindenhof, where you will enjoy a marvelous view of the Limmat all the way over to the Grossmünster. From there you will head to the Fraumünster, passing by St. Peter's Church, which bears the biggest clock face in Europe. Passing by the side of the city's Grossmünster, you will walk from the Lake to the Niederdorfstrasse, where you will experience the focal point of Zurich's restaurants and bars.

Mid-Day/Afternoon

Self Guided Visit to Zürich's West Bank

A wander around the West Bank of Zürich's Limmat River will help you experience the city's development over the centuries, from its iconic Fraumünster church, the rise of its famous banking industry around Paradeplatz, its associations with the Irish writer James Joyce, and its impact on modern sporting history at the FIFA World Football Museum.

Afternoon to Early Evening

Self Guided Tour of Zurich East Bank

Explore the environs of the left bank of the Limmat River in Zurich, including, for example, Grossmünster church where the Protestant Reformation found a receptive audience, as well as the modern artistic masterpieces housed in the Kunsthaus, before settling down to a traditional hearty cheese fondue somewhere along the pedestrianized Niederdorfstrasse.

Day 6

Zurich

Day 6

Zurich

Day 6

Zurich

Day 6

Zurich

Morning to Late Afternoon

Self-Guided Excursion to Bern

As Switzerland's low key and charming federal capital, Bern has often been at the heart of Swiss history, yet it's still a relatively small town with quiet, cobbled medieval lanes framed by arcaded buildings and a traffic-free Old Town that prompted UNESCO to grant it World Heritage Site status. This could be the world's most attractive and relaxing capital city.

Early Evening/Evening

Dining Out in Zurich

Zürich 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 "Bürli," a piece of bread). Nevertheless, since it also is very multicultural, you can find food from a lot of foreign cultures as well.

Day 7

Zurich to Lucerne

Day 7

Zurich to Lucerne

Day 7

Zurich to Lucerne

Day 7

Zurich to Lucerne

9:05 AM

Taxi Transfer to Zurich Main Rail Station

Zurich 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.

10:10 - 10:51

Rail Journey Zurich to Lucerne

A Swiss Travel Pass for this scenic direct journey to Lucerne, that takes about 45m, is 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.

10:51 AM

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.

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

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.

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 8

Lucerne

Day 8

Lucerne

Day 8

Lucerne

Day 8

Lucerne

Early Morning to Afternoon

Self-Guided Excursion to Rigi Kulm

The majestic viewing point of Rigi Kulm atop a prominent peak sandwiched between the lakes of Lucerne and Zug is accessed via a pleasant boat cruise across Lake Lucerne to Vitznau, followed by a rack-railway train to the summit. On the return journey, you head back down by train to Arth Goldau on the other side of the mountain with still more stupendous views of the surrounding countryside.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

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.

Day 9

Lucerne

Day 9

Lucerne

Day 9

Lucerne

Day 9

Lucerne

Early Morning to Mid-Day

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 10

Depart Lucerne

Day 10

Depart Lucerne

Day 10

Depart Lucerne

Day 10

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.

Click to See Details

Explore Munich & Switzerland in 10 Days: Perfect Alpine Escape

10 Day Tour of Munich, Zurich and Lucerne

$3095

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 Munich 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.