Day 1 Welcome to Vienna

Welcome to Vienna! Upon arrival we will transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy this afternoon to explore this city.

Day 2 Vienna city tour.

Today, we’ll embark on a panoramic tour of this impressive city. We’ll explore its majestic avenues, beautiful palaces, large parks and vibrant city center. Highlights include the great city hall Rathaus, Vienna University, and important sacred monuments such as the Column of the Pest, the gorgeous 18th century St Peter’s Catholic Church, St Stephen’s Cathedral, which is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. You will easily explore Vienna and see the amazing Hofburg Palace where Sisi lived, Albertina Palace and the world famous State Opera, where great composers such as Mozart, Beethoven and Chopin performed. You will also pass through the fabulous Palais Schwarzenberg and wander around the Baroque-style garden of the 18th century Belvedere. In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore on your own.

Optional Wachau Valley tour :

You will explore the River Danube as it flows around picturesque villages and steep vineyards. The many ancient castles testify to the former importance of the river as a trade and traffic route. One of these is the ruins of Dürnstein Castle, where, according to legend, Richard the Lionheart was kept imprisoned, and was eventually freed by his faithful minstrel Blondel. You will follow the legendary Danube and go to the heart of the Wachau wine-growing region. A highlight of the tour will be a visit to the Benedictine Abbey of Melk, one of Austria's most famous Baroque buildings, and winner of the award for "Best Historic Destination of the World" in 2008.

Day 3 Through Bohemia to Budapest.

Start the day with a journey through the beautiful forested countryside of Bohemia. Journey to Hungary, following the River Danube to Budapest. Head for Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, a charming city along the Danube with an attractive historic center. Explore the Old Town with its medieval streets, colorful facades, and vibrant cafes. Visit the iconic Bratislava Castle for panoramic views of the Danube, stroll through the lively Old Town, and savor traditional pastries at a local café. Next, a picturesque drive brings you to Budapest, Hungary’s dazzling capital. Cross the Chain Bridge to explore Buda Castle and enjoy breathtaking city views from Fisherman’s Bastion. Visit the historic Matthias Church and explore the bustling Pest side, including the Hungarian Parliament Building and St. Stephen’s Basilica. Indulge in a delicious Hungarian meal at a local restaurant. In the evening, enjoy a scenic cruise, whilst looking out over beautiful city views. Budapest boasts one of the most spectacular night time vistas, earning it the nickname 'Pearl of the Danube’.

Day 4 Lake Balaton.

Lake Balaton, a sprawling lake surrounded by charming towns and rolling countryside. Cruise through your day at a leisurely pace with only your private tour leader by your side. Take a ferry cruise(normally 01hr) across the lake, walk around the historic village of Tihany (home to the 11th-century Benedictine Tihany Abbey) and enjoy the picturesque views from the Balatonfüred promenade. Later proceed to Ljubljana. Free time to explore Ljubljana on your own pace.

Day 5 Venice

Begin your adventure in the iconic Prešern Square, framed by stunning views of the castle and the picturesque Triple Bridge. Marvel at the architectural splendor of Town Square and its commanding Town Hall, before absorbing the spiritual tranquility near the Cathedral. Later we will drop you at your mestre hotel. Explore Venice at your own pace, Admire the Mozart’s House and pass by the magnificent La Fenice Theatre and the “De le Ostreghe” Canal. See the world-famous St. Mark’s Square, Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge with your ACTV pass. The evening is free to explore. Be sure to sample local cuisine at one of the many bars and restaurants! Overnight at Mestre.

Day 6 Murano & Burano Panoramic Boat Tour w/ Glassblowing

Discover the most charming and famous islands of the Venetian Lagoon on this excursion. Marvel at the beautiful surroundings of Venice and learn more about Venetian life and traditions. Start your journey in a comfortable panoramic boat leaving from the St. Mark's area and reach the island of Murano in around 30 minutes. You will be welcomed to a glass factory to see a glass-blowing demonstration made by a glass master. You can purchase some craft souvenir items in the shop with an exclusive 10% discount. Head next to Burano Island. Immerse yourself in its quaint and colorful houses for just over an hour. On Burano, admire the fishermen's houses painted in bright colors to find their way home when returning from the sea. The island is also known internationally for its rare artisan lace. Close the mooring dock in the island center, observe the lace makers and enjoy your time relaxing or buying the typical biscuits made on the island: i bussolai. Board newly to go back to Venice and enjoy the quiet nature of the Venetian lagoon. Overnight at Mestre.

Day 7 Cinque Terre

After breakfast walk to the train station to catch your train to La Spezia. On arrival self check-in to your hotel. Then enjoy the best views of Riomaggiore and the beauty of a magical coastal area from the panoramic spot. Later discover the Cinque Terre, exploring the picturesque villages of Vernazza, Monterosso, and Manarola. We will visit Manarola first with the most beatiful view on the coloured village and explore narrow alleys and pastel squares. Then stop in Monterosso and enjoy free time in this charming village. Reach the village of Vernazza next by coastal train. With a wide-open harbor, castle, and church, Vernazza invites you to stroll through the back streets. You can decide if you want to come back to the van and drive to Riomaggiore or if you want to take the comfortable train to arrive there without walking.

Day 8 Pisa, San Gimignano & Florence

We shall proceed towards Pisa. Your experience starts through the enchanting landscapes of Tuscany, leading you to the timeless city of Pisa, renowned for its architectural marvels. As you step into the historic heart of Pisa, tour leader will unveil the secrets of Piazza dei Miracoli, a Unesco World Heritage Site, where you'll be spellbound by the "Miracles" that once earned this place its name. The centerpieces of this magnificent square are the awe-inspiring Cathedral, a masterpiece of Pisan Romanesque architecture and the iconic Leaning Tower, a global wonder that stands as a testament to both history and architectural prowess. Continue your journey to the breathtaking San Gimignano. Discover how people used to once live in a tower here during the Middle Ages, and many more mysterious historical facts during this tour of the medieval city of San Gimignano. The visit starts in Piazza Duomo, where most of the medieval towers are concentrated, then it continues along the medieval main street of the city, called Via San Matteo. You will continue until you reach the Church of Sant’Agostino, built in the late 13th Century, with splendid Renaissance frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli. You will then go back toward the city center through some side streets, stopping to admire the views from the ruins of the Montestaffoli fortress. Next, on to Florence, Once in Florence, enjoy some free time in the city center. Pay a visit to the Piazza della Signoria, the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, and, of course, Michelangelo's David. Purchase a traditional Italian ice cream on the way.

Day 9 Lake Como

After breakfast go to another iconic Italian city, Lake Como. Journeying through the serene countryside of northern Italy and southern Switzerland. Upon arrival take a lunch break & take a walking tour of the scenic town center, where nature, art and local traditions collide. After break reach the small village of Cadenabbia, you will make a quick 15-minute ferry crossing(not included) to Bellagio, known as the “Pearl of the Lake”. You will enjoy your time in this idyllic and relaxing place. Opt for Lake Como Shared Boat Tour. Set sail on an unforgettable journey through the most enchanting sites of Lake Como.Admire renowned attractions such as Villa Carlotta, with its botanical gardens, and Villa del Balbianello, immortalized in Star Wars and Casino Royale. See past picturesque historical residences like Villa La Cassinella and Villa Balbiano, featured in the film House of Gucci and discover the only island on Lake Como, called Isola Comacina. Return to Bellagio to admire Villa Melzi, surrounded by beautiful gardens. Later proceed towards Brig.

Day 10 Matterhorn Return Alpine Crossing(optional)

Choose this new premium experience which takes you from Zermatt to Cervinia in Italy, via the highest cable car crossing in the Alps. The approximately 1.5 hours to 2 hour journey from Switzerland to Italy spans an altitude difference of over 4000 meters, and along the way several easy changes are necessary to cover the immense altitude differences. At the border crossing at Testa Grigia, the highest border crossing in Europe at 3480 metres, take a memorable picture with one foot in Switzerland and one foot in Italy. During this unique crossing of the Alps, numerous other highlights await you, such as the highest glacier palace in the world or the viewing platform with a view of 38 four-thousand-meter peaks and 14 glaciers in 3 different countries. After lunch continue your journey to Zurich. If time permitted then drive on Furka Pass enroute to Zurich. The Furka Pass is a high mountain pass reaching a height of nearly 2500 meters above sea level presenting the views of the Majestic and glorious Alps. Always covered in snow, this pass connects Gletsh in Valais with the town of Realp in Uri. It has a reputation of being an iconic road trip route. The reason being James Bond in Goldfinger who drives past exhilarating turns in a memorable car chase.

Day 11 Fly back home Your memorable Holiday ends.

Today it’s time to fly back home. Say goodbye to the wonderful new friends you have made on the tour. Check out with pleasant memories of your European trip which you will cherish for a lifetime. (Breakfast)