• Explore the spectacular natural history of the Alps as an expert introduces you to the geologic wonders of this fascinating region. 
• Gain insight into Swiss rail travel, including the special engineering necessary for trains to operate in this mountainous area.
• Learn about Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the social and political circumstances of 18th-century Salzburg, which influenced the education of this musical genius.

Day 1: Overnight Flight

Day 2: Geneva, Switzerland - Tour Begins
Arrive in Geneva and transfer to the beautiful lakeside resort of Montreux. This evening attend a special welcome reception and dinner (D)

Day 3: Montreux - GoldenPass Train
Climb aboard the GoldenPass Panoramic Train for your first Alpine rail journey, from Montreux to Gstaad. Discover astonishing views of the countryside and the delightful ambiance of Gstaad, a world-famous ski resort. Traveling to La Maison du Gruyere, learn about the production of this favorite cheese and sample a variety of the Gruyeres. (B)

Day 4: Montreux - Chateau de Chillon - Zermatt -
This morning travel by motorcoach to visit the legendary, medieval Chateau de Chillon, considered the most well-preserved medieval castle in Europe. Next, journey to Zermatt through the region's beautiful wine country. Traveling along the lush Rhone Valley, pass the villages of Sion, with its twin hills topped with a castle and church, and Sierre, characterized by its 17th-century church, chateau, and the old watchtower. Your hotel is in the center of the Alpine village of Zermatt, featuring beautiful panoramic views of the Alps, including the famous Matterhorn. (B, D)

Day 5: Zermatt - Gornergrat Railway - Zermatt
Explore this quaint pedestrian-only village and take a ride on the Gornergrat Railway, featuring a special cogwheel that improves traction on steep slopes. This trip provides sweeping views of glaciers and the starkly beautiful Matterhorn. (B, D)

Day 6: Zermatt - Glacier Express Train - St. Moritz
Traverse bridges and tunnels while aboard the world-renowned narrow-gauge Glacier Express, the most charming express train in the world. Enjoy the natural beauty of this scenic route through the heart of the Swiss Alps, filled with forests, fragrant meadows, gurgling streams, and deep valleys. Marvel at the endless storybook landscapes and rural Alpine villages accessible solely by rail. Tonight explore the many splendors of St. Moritz. (B, D)

Day 7: St. Moritz - Bernina Express - St. Moritz
Embark on the Bernina Express Train, which travels along one of the most scenic railway lines in the word. En route to Tirano, Italy, the train climbs one of Europe's steepest rail ascents, out of the Engadine Valley toward the Bernina Pass before arriving in Tirano. Enjoy the dramatic views of the Morteratsch Glacier and many others throughout the journey in the Italian Alps. (B, D)

Day 8: St. Moritz - Innsbruck
Travel to the magical city of Innsbruck, host to two winter Olympics, nestled comfortably in the mountains. Your home for the next three nights is the lovely Hotel Innsbruck, located just steps away from the well-known Golden Roof villa. The Golden Roof was constructed by Maximilian I of the Habsburg dynasty in the 15th century as a wedding present to his wife. (B)

Day 9: Innsbruck - Salzburg - Innsbruck
Travel through the Austrian countryside to the magnificent city of Salzburg. Enjoy a leisurely paced walking tour featuring Mirabell Gardens (seen in the Sound of Music), the quaint Getreidegasse (the street where Mozart was born), and many other highlights. While at Mozart's Geburtshaus, learn about the early years of one of the greatest composers in the world. The afternoon is at leisure to explore and enjoy Salzburg's unique blend of sophistication and charm. You may opt to explore independently the Hohensalzburg Fortress, which was founded in the 11th century by Archbishop Gebhard, or return to the famous pedestrian street, the Getreidegasse. Tonight attend a delightful dinner at the centuries-old St. Peter's Restaurant, located in the historic city center. (B, D)

Day 10: Innsbruck
A local guide leads a city tour of Innsbruck highlighting Maria Theresienstrasse, the Hofburg, and the "Golden Roof," all set against the backdrop of the lovely Austrian Alps. In the afternoon, take an excursion to nearby Wattens to visit the fascinating Swarovski Crystal World Museum. Before returning to the Old Town, a special stop is made at the famous Innsbruck Olympic Ski Jump, which was used for the 1964 and 1976 winter Olympics. Your evening features a special farewell dinner and a Tyrolean folklore show. (B, D)

Day 11: Innsbruck - Munich - Tour Concludes
(B)

Ask us for additional nights before or after your tour.

11 days, 16 meals
9 Breakfasts, 7 Dinners

Day 1 - Overnight Flight
Day 2, 3 - Grand Hotel Suisse-Majestic, Montreux, Switzerland
Day 4, 5 - Schweizerhof Hotel, Zermatt, Switzerland
Day 6, 7 - Hotel Monopol, St. Moritz, Switzerland
Day 8 - 10 - Innsbruck Hotel or Hotel Grauer Bar, Innsbruck, Austria

NOTES:

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