
Switzerland, Austria & Prague Itinerary: Alpine Peaks to Bohemian Charm by Train
Embark on a 7-day train journey through the heart of Europe, connecting the historic grandeur of Prague, the musical heritage of Salzburg, and the stunning Swiss landscapes of Lucerne. This itinerary blends cultural exploration with scenic rail travel, offering a seamless adventure across three captivating countries.
- 1Prague
- 2Salzburg
- 3Lucerne
Day 1: Arrive in Prague
Begin your adventure in Prague, arriving at Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) or via train at Praha hlavní nádraží. Spend your afternoon immersing yourself in the city's iconic Old Town Square and the historic Charles Bridge.
Highlights
- Arrive at Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) or Praha hlavní nádraží, Prague's main railway hub, well-connected by metro, tram, and bus.
- Stroll through the historic Old Town Square, surrounded by Gothic and Baroque landmarks, perfect for first-time visitors.
- Walk across Charles Bridge, an iconic medieval bridge adorned with Baroque statues, offering classic Prague views.
Day 2: Discover Prague's Historic Heart
Dedicate today to exploring Prague's majestic castle complex and the charming Lesser Town, delving deeper into the city's rich history and architectural wonders.
Highlights
- Explore Prague Castle, a vast hilltop complex with palaces, courtyards, and grand views, symbolising Czech statehood.
- Marvel at St. Vitus Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture within Prague Castle, known for its stained glass and royal tombs.
- Wander through Malá Strana (Lesser Town), a romantic quarter of palaces, lanes, and church domes beneath Prague Castle, ideal for photography.
Day 3: Travel to Salzburg, Mozart's City
Journey by train from Prague to Salzburg, a scenic trip averaging 6h 12m with tickets starting from €22. Upon arrival, begin your exploration of Salzburg's musical heritage and charming streets.
Highlights
- Board a train from Praha hlavní nádraží to Salzburg Hbf, with services provided by ÖBB, České dráhy, and Deutsche Bahn.
- Visit Mozart's Birthplace in Getreidegasse, displaying family items and instruments from his early years.
- Explore Getreidegasse, Salzburg’s famous old shopping lane with wrought-iron guild signs and historic houses.
Day 4: Salzburg's Imperial Grandeur
Spend a full day discovering Salzburg's most prominent landmarks, from its imposing fortress to its grand cathedral and picturesque gardens.
Highlights
- Ascend to Hohensalzburg Fortress, a Baroque hilltop fortress from 1077, offering city panoramas and museums.
- Admire Salzburg Cathedral, a major Baroque sacred monument with a grand dome and rich interior, linked to Mozart.
- Stroll through Mirabell Gardens, formal gardens admired for their Baroque design, statues, and fortress views.
Day 5: Picturesque Hallstatt Day Trip
Take a captivating day trip by train to Hallstatt, a picturesque village nestled by a lake. The journey averages 2h 9m, with tickets starting from €10. Earliest outbound departure from Salzburg is 00:13, and the latest return from Hallstatt is 23:33.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Salzburg Hbf to Hallstatt Bahnhof, with services from ÖBB and ÖBB | REX.
- Explore the traditional Marktplatz Hallstatt, framed by historic houses and monuments.
- Experience the Hallstatt Skywalk Welterbeblick, an elevated viewpoint offering sweeping lake and village panoramas.
Day 6: Scenic Train to Lucerne
Enjoy a scenic train journey from Salzburg to Lucerne, averaging 6h 30m with tickets starting from €36. Upon arrival, discover Lucerne's iconic wooden bridge and water tower.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Salzburg Hbf to Luzern Bhf, with services from ÖBB, Deutsche Bahn, and ÖBB | Railjet.
- Walk across Chapel Bridge, Lucerne’s iconic 14th-century covered wooden bridge with interior paintings.
- See the historic Water Tower, an octagonal landmark beside Chapel Bridge, defining Lucerne’s waterfront skyline.
Day 7: Depart from Lucerne
Spend your morning exploring Lucerne's poignant Lion Monument and the elegant Nationalquai before departing from Luzern Bhf. The recommended international airport is Zurich Airport (ZRH).
Highlights
- Visit the Lion Monument, a moving rock-cut sculpture commemorating Swiss Guards.
- Enjoy a final stroll along the Nationalquai, an elegant lakefront promenade offering mountain views.
- Depart from Luzern Bhf, Lucerne's main train station, or Zurich Airport (ZRH), the closest international airport, with direct trains taking 1h 2m to 1h 17m. Alternative airports include EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freibur













