Germany, Austria, Switzerland Itinerary 7 Days: Alpine Peaks and Historic Cities
Experience the best of Central Europe on this 7-day journey, starting in Munich, exploring Salzburg and its surroundings, and concluding amidst the stunning Swiss landscapes of Lucerne. Travel seamlessly by train between these iconic destinations.
- 1Munich
- 2Salzburg
- 3Lucerne
Day 1: Arrive in Munich
Arrive in Munich, settle into your accommodation, and begin your exploration with a leisurely stroll through the city's historic heart.
Highlights
- Arrive at Munich Franz Josef Strauss International Airport (MUC) and transfer to München Hauptbahnhof, the city's central train station.
- Wander through Marienplatz, Munich's vibrant central square, admiring the Neo-Gothic New Town Hall.
- Witness the famous Glockenspiel chime at the New Town Hall, a beloved Munich tradition.
Day 2: Munich's Royal History and Green Spaces
Delve into Munich's rich royal past and enjoy its expansive green spaces, concluding your day with a taste of Bavarian beer culture.
Highlights
- Explore the opulent Munich Residenz, the former royal palace of Bavarian monarchs, with its lavish rooms and treasury.
- Relax and stroll through the vast English Garden, one of the world's largest urban public parks, offering meadows and river scenes.
- Experience a traditional Bavarian evening at Hofbräuhaus München, a historic beer hall known for its lively atmosphere and classic dishes.
Day 3: Travel to Salzburg and Mozart's Legacy
Journey by train from Munich to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, and begin discovering its charming Old Town and musical heritage.
Highlights
- Take a scenic train journey from München Hbf to Salzburg Hbf, with tickets starting from €18.
- Visit Mozart's Birthplace, a museum showcasing the composer's early life, family items, and instruments.
- Stroll along Getreidegasse, Salzburg’s famous old shopping lane, known for its historic houses and unique wrought-iron guild signs.
Day 4: Scenic Day Trip to Hallstatt
Embark on a picturesque day trip to Hallstatt, a stunning lakeside village, and take in breathtaking panoramic views.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Salzburg Hbf to Hallstatt Bahnhof, with tickets starting from €10. The earliest outbound train is at 00:13 and the latest return is at 23:33.
- Ascend to the Hallstatt Skywalk Welterbeblick for sweeping views of the lake and village, a truly iconic vista.
- Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Seepromenade Hallstatt, admiring the classic lakeside houses and tranquil waters.
Day 5: Journey to Lucerne: Swiss Scenery and Chapel Bridge
Travel through stunning landscapes from Salzburg to Lucerne, Switzerland, and spend your evening exploring the city's iconic wooden bridge.
Highlights
- Enjoy a comfortable train journey from Salzburg Hbf to Luzern Bhf, with tickets starting from €36.
- Walk across the historic Chapel Bridge, Lucerne’s most famous landmark, adorned with interior paintings depicting Swiss history.
- Admire the Water Tower, an octagonal medieval structure standing proudly beside the Chapel Bridge, a defining feature of Lucerne's skyline.
Day 6: Lucerne's Transport Wonders and Lakeside Charm
Dedicate your day to exploring Lucerne's fascinating attractions, from its world-class transport museum to its poignant monument and beautiful lakefront.
Highlights
- Spend time at the Swiss Museum of Transport, Switzerland's most visited museum, featuring interactive exhibits on trains, planes, and cars.
- Visit the moving Lion Monument, a rock-cut sculpture commemorating Swiss Guards, famously described by Mark Twain.
- Stroll along the elegant Nationalquai, the lakefront promenade offering stunning mountain views and access to boat piers.
Day 7: Morning in Lucerne and Departure
Enjoy a final morning in Lucerne, perhaps with a visit to an art collection, before heading to the airport for your onward journey.
Highlights
- Consider a visit to the Sammlung Rosengart, a museum housing an impressive collection of works by Pablo Picasso and Paul Klee.
- Depart from Luzern Bhf, with convenient connections to Zurich Airport (ZRH).
- Alternatively, EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL) is another international gateway, approximately 84.8 km from Lucerne, accessible via bus and train transfers.
