Grand Alpine Explorer

Discover three of Switzerland’s superb mountain train lines, including the wonderful Jungfrau Railway, as well as the German city of Munich and the idyllic Austrian Lake District.

The Travelmarvel operated 13 Day Alpine Discovery by Rail tour is available in 2027 (refer to )

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Munich

You’ll be met on arrival in Munich and transferred to your hotel. Located within view of the Alps, lively Munich is the capital of Bavaria, as well as one of Germany’s best-loved cities.

Day 2: Munich

Become immersed in the illustrious sights of Munich. With a rich culture and heritage, the city has a wonderful collection of museums, galleries and architecture. Enjoy a guided walking tour to introduce you to the highlights of Munich, including sampling local food and beer. Learn about the history of brewing in Bavaria and the influence of the ‘Reinheitsgebot’ purity law at the Oktoberfest Museum, before visiting Munich’s oldest beer house, the Hofbrauhaus. Later, enjoy time at leisure.

Day 3: Salzburg

Leaving Munich behind this morning, take the train into Austria. Arrive in Salzburg, a city known the world over as the birthplace of Mozart, and the setting for the classic film, ‘The Sound of Music’. On arrival, you will embark on a guided walking tour with a local guide. Discover the Old Town, the World Heritage-listed centre with its pretty collection of medieval and baroque buildings, plus gorgeous views of the mountains. Afterwards, the rest of the day is at leisure.

Insider Experience- Banquet with Mozart Concert

This evening, enjoy dinner with a difference. Travel to the baroque banquet hall at St Peter's and sit down to a candlelit dinner accompanied by the stirring music of Salzburg's most famous son, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. A chamber ensemble and singers dressed in rococo costumes bring selections of Mozart's famous music to life while you enjoy a gastronomic menu inspired by the composer.

Day 4: Salzburg

Today is free for you to relax in Salzburg. Perhaps visit the Salzburg Fortress, also known as Hohensalzburg Castle, which is perched high above the city with great views from its peak.  Or, try a Mozartkugel, a delicious chocolate named after Mozart.

Day 5: Salzburg, Austrian Lake District

Today, immerse yourself in the charm of the Austrian Lake District, beginning with a visit to Kaiservilla, the grand summer residence of Habsburg Emperor Franz Josef I. The expansive park surrounding the villa, designed in the English style, was completed in 1860. You’ll have plenty of time to wander through the meticulously landscaped grounds before continuing to St. Gilgen, a town brimming with baroque and rococo character. From there, proceed to St. Wolfgang and enjoy a scenic lake cruise. Spend some time at leisure in Wolfgangsee, then make your way to Mondsee for free time. You may wish to visit the town’s cloister church, famously featured as the wedding location in The Sound of Music. Return to Salzburg this evening for a shared dinner together.

Day 6: Salzburg, Innsbruck

This morning, depart Salzburg and journey by First Class Rail into the heart of the Austrian Alps. As you approach Innsbruck, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with towering mountains rising steeply on either side of the Inn Valley. Upon arrival in Innsbruck, enjoy a guided tour of this charming city, set against the stunning backdrop of the Alps. The city’s magnificently preserved Old Town offers a glimpse into its historic and cultural heritage, with an impressive collection of renaissance and baroque buildings.

Day 7: Innsbruck, Neuschwanstein Castle, Zugspitze Railway

Today, your travels will take you to the magnificent Neuschwanstein Castle. Nestled at the edge of the Alps, it presents a breathtaking sight, steeped in history. Enjoy time at leisure in Hohenschwangau before continuing your journey. The next leg of your trip takes you by cable car, offering stunning views as it glides over the forests to the summit, where you’ll have free time to take in the panorama.

Insider Experience – Zugspitze Railway

Embark on an exhilarating journey aboard the Zugspitze Railway, which ascends to the summit of Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak.

Day 8: Innsbruck, Swiss Alps, St Moritz

Today, embark on a scenic rail journey through the Swiss Alps. Travel near the principality of Liechtenstein before making your way into the Swiss town of Sargans. Here, you’ll change trains and follow the Rhine River to Chur, before continuing on to the renowned resort town of St. Moritz.

Day 9: St Moritz, Bernina Express, Tirano

Travel through breathtaking landscapes aboard a renowned train line, arriving in the charming Italian town of Tirano. Here, you’ll have free time to explore at your leisure before embarking on your return journey.

Insider Experience – The Bernina Express

Embark on the Bernina Express, a journey through awe-inspiring scenery, where you'll pass majestic glaciers, sparkling mountain streams, and vibrant alpine meadows. 

Day 10: St Moritz

Spend today at your leisure, immersing yourself in the elegance and charm of St. Moritz. Whether you choose to stroll through its stylish streets, indulge in world-class shopping, or simply relax by the lake, the day is yours to savour at your own pace.

Day 11: Glacier Express, Interlaken

Embark on a remarkable journey from St. Moritz to Brig aboard the iconic Glacier Express as part of a thrilling Insider Experience. Savour a delicious two-course lunch at your seat as the train climbs steadily and steeply over the Oberalp Pass, before spiralling down through picturesque villages on the way to Brig. Upon arrival, change trains and continue your journey to Interlaken.

Insider Experience – Glacier Express Panoramic Journey

Step aboard the renowned Glacier Express for a scenic journey from St. Moritz to Brig, relishing the breathtaking views through the panoramic windows of your carriage.

Day 12: Jungfrau Railway

Today's adventure begins as you depart Interlaken and travel through the foothills of the Alps to Lauterbrunnen. From here, board the Wengeralp Railway to reach Kleine Scheidegg, before continuing your journey aboard the Jungfrau Railway. Your final destination is the Jungfraujoch, Europe's highest railway station. Enjoy free time at the summit and perhaps explore the fascinating Ice Palace.

Insider Experience – Jungfrau Railway

Embark on the iconic Jungfrau Railway, taking in spectacular views from two observation points carved out of solid rock between the rail tunnel and the majestic north face of the Eiger.

Day 13: Interlaken

Awake to the stunning mountain vistas of Interlaken – a day to explore this charming town at your own pace. Perhaps take a leisurely stroll around the glacier-fed lakes, before sharing a memorable Farewell Dinner this evening.

Day 14: Depart Zurich

Your incredible journey reaches an end this morning. After breakfast, take the train to the airport in Zurich for your onward flight.