Today, we set out for the heart of Europe, stepping aboard our overnight flight across the sparkling expanse of the North Atlantic. Our adventure takes us through the DACH region—Switzerland, Germany, and Austria—where storybook villages, snow-dusted peaks, and echoes of The Sound of Music await. From the majestic Alps to the enchanting medieval towns, stunning castles, and vibrant cultural scenes of Czechia, this promises to be a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable moments.

Upon arrival in Zurich, we board our motorcoach and meet our tour manager before traveling a short distance to Lucerne. Known for its medieval architecture, Lucerne lies amid snowcapped mountains on the shores of Lake Lucerne. Our first stop is the Lion Monument, a poignant carving commemorating the Swiss Guards who were massacred during the French Revolution. We then set out on a walking tour through the lively market of the colorful Altstadt (Old Town), passing landmarks such as the Wasserturm (Water Tower), the Museggmauer (14th-century rampart), and the covered Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge). Afterward, we check into our hotel for a two-night stay and enjoy a three-course dinner. (D)

We embark on an unforgettable adventure to Trummelbach Falls, where we experience a rare perspective—walking behind, around, and nearly through cascading waters. Afterward, we enjoy a short scenic ride to Lauterbrunnen before boarding the cog-wheel train for a steep ascent to Klein Scheidegg. Here, we enjoy a delightful lunch before taking our final journey to the mountaintop, Jungfraujoch. Known as the “Top of Europe” at 3,454 m above sea level, we step onto the Alps’ longest glacier, explore the mesmerizing Ice Palace, and visit Lindt Swiss Chocolate Heaven, the world’s highest Lindt shop, where we shop for premium chocolates. On the descent, we arrive in Grindelwald - a charming village known as a winter skiing haven and summer base for mountain climbers. After a day packed with breathtaking sights, we return to our hotel this evening. (B, L)

This morning, we bid farewell to Switzerland and cross into the enchanting region of Bavaria, Germany. Our first stop is the picturesque lakeside town of Lindau, where cobblestone streets lead to a charming harbor. Here, we admire the 13th-century lighthouse standing watch beside the iconic Bavarian lion statue, both framed by the shimmering waters of Lake Constance. In the afternoon, we travel to the foothills near the village of Hohenschwangau to visit the world-famous Neuschwanstein Castle. With its gleaming white limestone walls and deep-blue turrets, it is said to have inspired Disney’s iconic castle design. Built for the visionary yet reclusive King Ludwig II, this “fairy-tale king’s” masterpiece is now among the most visited castles in the world. As the day draws to a close, we arrive in the romantic old town of Füssen for our overnight stay. (B)

We arrive in the beautiful Alpine valley township of Steingaden, home to the Pilgrimage Church of Wies (Wieskirche). Its stunning oval Rococo interior gained renown after a reported miracle in 1738, when a farmer and his wife claimed to see tears in the eyes of the Savior during evening prayers. Our journey continues to the German town of Oberammergau, world-famous for its once-in-a-decade Passion Play. This charming village also boasts a centuries-old tradition of woodcarving, evident in the many artisan shops you can explore. We then cross into Austria, arriving in Innsbruck, our overnight destination. Known for hosting numerous winter sports competitions, Innsbruck has long drawn visitors from across the globe. Here, we meet our local guide for a walking tour to discover the city’s highlights, including the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), a late-Gothic oriel window adorned with 2,657 gilded copper tiles. (B)

Our day begins in the charming market town of Wattens with a visit to Swarovski Crystal Worlds. More than just a store, this immersive attraction was created by international artists, designers, and architects to showcase the brilliance and artistry of crystal in dazzling, interactive displays. We then travel into the heart of the Bavarian Alps, arriving in the storybook town of Berchtesgaden, nestled at the foot of Obersalzberg. From here, we ascend the Kehlstein, a dramatic rocky peak crowned by the Kehlsteinhaus — better known as Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest. Built in 1938 as a diplomatic retreat for the Nazi Party, it now stands as a somber historical site, offering both a window into the past and breathtaking alpine panoramas. Continuing our journey, we cross into Austria and arrive in Salzburg, where we check into our hotel and enjoy a fine dinner at a local restaurant to conclude the day. (B, D)

Today, we step into the world of one of the most beloved movies of all time, The Sound of Music. Our morning begins with a walking tour of Salzburg, where we visit iconic sites such as Mirabell Gardens and explore locations featured in the film. We then transfer to view the charming Hellbrunn Castle, known for its trick fountains and Renaissance architecture. Continuing our journey, we travel to the picturesque town of Mondsee, where we enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before taking a relaxing boat cruise on the sparkling waters of Mondsee Lake. At Mondsee, we also visit the “wedding church,” Basilica St. Michael, famously featured in the film as the site of Captain von Trapp and Maria’s wedding. We return to our hotel in Salzburg in the early evening, concluding a day filled with scenic beauty, cinematic history, and memorable experiences. (B, L)

We depart Salzburg for the charming city of Passau. Nestled at the confluence of three rivers—the Danube, Inn, and Ilz—Passau is known as the “City of Three Rivers” and is famed for its baroque architecture, the stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral with one of the largest church organs in the world, and scenic riverside promenades. We’ll stop to admire the city’s main sights and enjoy a leisurely lunch before continuing our journey to the fairytale town of Český Krumlov. This UNESCO World Heritage site enchants us with its winding cobblestone streets, medieval castle complex, charming town square, and colorful Renaissance and Baroque buildings. We’ll immerse ourselves in an afternoon tour of the city before checking in to our hotel for a relaxing overnight stay. (B)

This morning, you’ll have free time to explore the enchanting town of Český Krumlov. Stroll through its winding cobblestone streets, visit the majestic castle complex, browse local shops, or relax at a riverside café to soak in the town’s fairytale charm. Late in the morning, we travel to the capital city of Prague to enjoy an afternoon city tour. Experience the highlights of the City of a Hundred Spires, including the iconic Charles Bridge, adorned with statues of Catholic saints, the animated hourly show of the Astronomical Clock, and the public areas of Prague Castle. We’ll also take a ride on one of the city’s historic trams for a unique perspective of Prague’s streets, wander cobblestone alleys, and capture photos of historic squares along the way. The day concludes with a Farewell Dinner featuring a folklore show, offering a festive and delicious finale to our journey. (B, D)

As our unforgettable journey ends, we bid farewell to the stunning landscapes of Switzerland, the historic cities of Germany, the charming streets of Austria, and the fairytale towns of Czechia. Today, we board our flight home to the USA, carrying with us cherished memories of breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and extraordinary experiences from this remarkable tour. (B)

PLEASE NOTE: Porterage is not available in some of the hotels on this tour. You must be able to carry your luggage to and from the hotel to the motorcoach.