| Jewels of Alpine Europe |
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Step into the pages of a fairy tale on this 13-day journey through the majestic Alps, where snowcapped peaks tower over grass-covered slopes and idyllic Alpine lakes. Traverse mountain passes as you travel through five Alpine countries from one picturesque setting to the next. Whether you’re wandering through charming villages or cruising crystal-clear waters, the views of the Alps will fill you with wonder.
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Lucerne
Day 1 Travel to Switzerland aboard an overnight transatlantic flight.
Day 2 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 A local guide leads a tour of the
lakeside city of Lucerne. View the Löwendenkmal, a sandstone carving that pays tribute to fallen Swiss Guards. Then 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)
Day 4 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 a cheese factory and Einsiedeln Abbey (lunch is included). (B)
Annecy
Day 5 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 Enjoy a free day in Annecy today or join a full-day optional excursion to Chamonix, site of the first Winter Olympics in 1924. Here you’ll board Europe’s highest cable car for panoramic views from Mont Blanc. (B)
Lake Como Region
Day 7 Take in magnificent vistas of the French Alps on today’s included boat cruise around Lake Annecy, the same views that inspired Cézanne to paint Le Lac d’Annecy. Then travel through the Mont Blanc tunnel into Italy, arriving later in the scenic Lake Como region. (B, D)
Day 8 Begin the day with a visit to the
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)
St. Moritz
Day 9 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)
Innsbruck
Day 10 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 Join your tour director for a walk through Innsbruck. The site of two Winter Olympics, the city was a favorite destination of the Hapsburgs, 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)
munich
Day 12 Transfer to Munich, the cultural
center of Germany. After arrival, you’ll have an expertly guided sightseeing tour of the city, including the Residenz, Olympic Village, Nymphenburg Palace and Marienplatz. (B)
Day 13 Stay for our tour extension in Munich or board your flight home. (B)
Extend your stay
Munich
Day 13 Continue your exploration of
Germany with a free day in Munich. Later this afternoon, you might want to join our
optional brewery tour, tasting and dinner. (B)
Day 14 Enjoy another free day in Munich or join an optional excursion to the Austrian city of Salzburg, known for its connections to both Mozart and The Sound of Music. (B)
Day 15 Board your flight home. (B)
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Round-trip air transportation with a major airline, airport transfers and escorts
The services of a multilingual Go Ahead Tour Director
A licensed local city guide in Lucerne and Munich
11 nights accommodation in comfortable, well-located hotels with twin beds and private bath or shower
All hotel service charges and tips, baggage handling and local
Buffet breakfast (B) daily; 5 three-course dinners (D)
Private deluxe motorcoach with reclining seats, air conditioning and restroom
Guided sightseeing and entrance fees to select sights as
Go Ahead travel bag and membership in our World Traveler Club, which includes credit toward your next tour |
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| Daily Departures from 1/1/2009 to 12/31/2010 |
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Destination Information
Itinerary
Items Included
Departure Dates
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