On this 13-day tour, admire the highlights of five Alpine countries, including Switzerland’s wonderful traditions and picturesque views.

Please note: 2009 itinerary varies slightly. Please call for details.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 - Lucerne

Travel to Switzerland aboard an overnight transatlantic flight.

Day 2 - Lucerne

Touch down in Zürich, where a Go Ahead representative accompanies you on the transfer to Lucerne. After hotel check-in, the rest of your day is free until this evening’s included dinner. (B in flight, D)

Day 3 - Lucerne

A local guide leads a tour of the lakeside city of Lucerne. View the Löwendenkmal (Lion Monument), a sandstone carving that pays tribute to fallen Swiss Guards; and stroll across the Kapellbrücke, a covered bridge whose history dates back to medieval days—the murals lining the ceiling are nearly identical to those painted in the 14th century. Following your tour, opt for a cog railway ride up Mount Pilatus. This evening, partake of a savory Swiss tradition at our optional Swiss Folklore Dinner, featuring local specialties such as fondue and live entertainment. (B)

$79 USD

Mount Pilatus This scenic excursion begins with a cruise along Lake Lucerne aboard an authentic steamer. Then ascend the 7,000-foot summit of Mount Pilatus, on the world’s steepest cog-wheel railway, where the views of the Alps are stunning.

$79 USD

Swiss Folklore Evening Take part in a long-standing Swiss tradition at a festive dinner and show, featuring local Lucerne delicacies and fondue.

Day 4 - Lucerne

Today is free for you to explore Lucerne, perhaps with a cruise along the lake or a visit to the Picasso Museum. Alternatively, join an optional excursion to Zurich, including a guided walking tour. (B)

$69 USD

Zurich Nestled on the banks of Lake Zurich, with the Swiss Alps rising behind, Zurich is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Enjoy a guided tour through the city's Old Town.

Day 5 - Lake Annecy Region

Your first stop today is Bern, Switzerland’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then stop in Geneva, international center of diplomacy. Here you’ll see the United Nations buildings and the shores of Lac Léman. Cross into France, arriving later today in the lovely town of Annecy, noted for its cobblestone streets and scenic canal. (B, D)

Day 6 - Lake Annecy Region

Begin the day with a boat cruise (seasonal; some groups may have a walking tour) around Lake Annecy, featuring panoramic views of the Alps as well as a close-up look at the villas and flowering banks that circle the lake. You’ll tour the town, from the Château to the Palais de l’Ile, a tiny idyllic 12th-century fort, before enjoying lunch. (B, L)

Day 7 - Lake Como

Transfer to Chamonix, home of the 1924 Winter Olympics. Here, you’ll spend free time exploring this summer mecca for alpine mountaineers. You can also join an optional excursion to Mont Blanc, featuring a ride on Europe’s highest cable car for gorgeous vistas (weather permitting) and enjoy lunch at the mountain's summit. Next, travel through the Mont Blanc tunnel—Europe’s longest such passageway—into Italy. Arrive in the Lake Como region. (B, D)

$115 USD

Mont Blanc Board Europe's highest cable car and ascend the mountain for glorious panoramic views.

Day 8 - Lake Como

Begin the day with a visit to the 18th-century Villa Carlotta, an ornate estate covering 14 acres that once served as home to a Prussian princess. This evening, you might opt for a tour of the Como region and a special lakeside dinner. (B)

$75 USD

Lake Como Cruise This evening excursion begins with a scenic cruise of Lake Como then brings you the charming town of Bellagio.

Day 9 - St. Moritz

Return to Switzerland on today’s transfer to St. Moritz, a chic retreat for the rich and famous, including Sir Alfred Hitchcock, who set his 1934 British version of The Man Who Knew Too Much here. On a walk through town led by your tour director, behold the dramatic Engadin Valley, and see St. Moritz’s leaning tower, once part of a 13th-century church. (B, D)

Day 10 - Innsbruck

Travel through the principality of Liechtenstein, known for its production of wine and postage stamps. Pass the Royal Palace in the capital, Vaduz. Then continue into Austria, arriving by evening in Innsbruck. (B, D)

Day 11 - Innsbruck

Join your tour director for a walk through Innsbruck. The site of two Winter Olympics, the city was a favorite destination of the Hapsburg dynasty, and you’ll see many relics of their reign—including the town’s enormous ceremonial arch—as you stroll. This afternoon, join an optional excursion to the Bavarian castle of Neuschwanstein. (B)

$69 USD

Neuschwanstein Head into the mountains of Bavaria on an excursion to Neuschwanstein, retreat of “Mad” King Ludwig. Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle was modeled on this same fairy-tale design

Day 12 - Munich

Transfer to Munich, one of Germany's cultural centers. After your arrival, enjoy an expertly guided sightseeing tour of the city, including the Residenz, Olympic Village, Nyphemburg Palace and Marienplatz.  (B)

Day 13 - Munich

Stay for our tour extension in Munich or board your flight home. (B)

Please note: 2009 itinerary varies slightly. Please call for details.