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The Best of Austria & Switzerland

4.8/5 Based on 10 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor
The Best of Austria & Switzerland
The Best of Austria & Switzerland
The Best of Austria & Switzerland
Coach Group Scenic Glacier Express

Overview

Read 10 reviews and enjoy exclusive savings on Globus 11 Day The Best of Austria & Switzerland. The hills are alive with the sound of music, the aroma of strudel, and the taste of schnitzel. In addition to the fables, falsettos, and tastes of two of Europe’s most scenic countries, a symphony of sights awaits your arrival on this scenic tour of Austria and Switzerland. Palaces and castles, peaks and glaciers, moving scenery, and famous movie scenes are all on the itinerary.

As you make the stunning journey from melodious Vienna to metropolitan Zurich, you’ll experience the breathtaking read more scenery in a variety of ways. Board the Glacier Express train for the car-free mountain resort of Zermatt, and frolic in the same Austrian locations as Julie Andrews did in the hit movie The Sound of Music. At the end of your eye-opening and ear-pleasing vacation, “So long, farewell” will be the hardest words to utter.

PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Vienna so you can plan your day your way.
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Trip Length
Trip Length

11 Days

Trip Starts
Trip Starts

Vienna

Trip Ends
Trip Ends

Zurich

Countries Visited
Countries Visited:
Operator
Operator
Globus
Trip Reviews
10 Trip Reviews
Avg. Rating: 4.8/5
Trip Style
Trip Style

Classic

Accommodation
Accommodation

4 - 4.5 Star

Budget
Budget

Premium

Age Range
Age Range

5-99 Years

Max. Group Size
Max. Group Size

45

Guide Style
Guiding Style

Fully Guided

Itinerary

Welcome to Vienna!

At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (D)

Spend your day your way in Vienna

Follow your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour featuring some of Vienna’s celebrated landmarks.

Explore more of Vienna with your choice of included Globus choice excursions.

  • Spectacular Schönbrunn - Take a guided walking tour and experience the elegance of imperial Vienna at Schönbrunn Palace, one of the most important cultural, historic, and architectural monuments in Austria. Marvel at richly decorated Baroque rooms, stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, and uncover centuries of Habsburg history in Vienna's breathtaking imperial jewel.
  • Waltzing Through History - Step into the world of "The Waltz King" at the Johann Strauss Museum in Vienna! Discover the life, music, and legacy of the composer behind "The Blue Danube" and "Die Fledermaus." Explore rare exhibits, personal artifacts, and immerse yourself in the elegance of 19th-century Vienna.
Free time this evening. (B)

The Sound of Music

Leave Vienna and drive to the pretty town of Mondsee. Take a stroll in the center and visit the baroque Basilika of St. Michael, location of the wedding scene in the film “The Sound of Music.” Continue to Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart, and follow your Local Guide on a walking tour which includes Mirabell Gardens, the Great Festival Hall, and Residenz Square (B) 186 mi / 300 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - PICTURE PERFECT: Mondsee is a delightful town situated on Lake Mondsee, a privately owned lake, and is one of the 76 lakes found in the Salzkammergut region. In 1872 prehistoric pile dwellings were discovered there, but the rising lake water has since hidden them from view. Despite them being UNESCO listed, their fame in Mondsee is probably overshadowed by the medieval abbey used as a Sound of Music film location.

The Birthplace of Mozart

Enjoy a free day in Salzburg, absorb more art and culture in one of the museums, browse the stores, or try local specialties, like the delicious Salzburger Nockerl. Alternatively, join an optional excursion. (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURAL GEMS: The birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg, will put a song in your heart as you explore its charmingly splendid gardens, and medieval and Baroque architecture along the pedestrian Altstadt (Old Town). Salzburg's scenic Alpine landscape and architectural treasures has earned this Austrian jewel the reputation as one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Heavenly Hills of Switzerland

This morning reach Innsbruck for an orientation walk through the Old Town to see the Golden Roof, built over 500 years ago and designed to be a royal box from where the emperor could watch local events. Later, cross the border into Switzerland for a scenic drive through the Swiss Engadine en-route to St. Moritz. (B/D) 236 mi / 380 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - NATURAL WONDERS: Pass through the spectacular beauty of Swiss Engadine on your way to St. Moritz. Take in the alpine vistas surrounding this paradise of deep blue lakes and rolling green meadows, forests, snow-capped summits, and endless sky in one of Switzerland's most stunning valleys.

All Aboard in the Alps

A leisurely morning before boarding the world-famous Glacier Express train for an iconic train ride to Zermatt. Enjoy dinner with a view, as it is served on board while you admire the stunning scenery. (B/D) 174 mi / 280 km.

LOCAL FAVORITE - EPIC RIDE: Don't let the name fool you. While its speed won't take your breath away, the Glacier Express train from St. Moritz to Zermatt delivers a slow, breathtaking ride through some of Switzerland's most stunning scenery. Traveling the rails over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, you'll take in each passing postcard scene while reaching an altitude of 6,670 feet above sea level.

Peak Perfection

Oozing tradition, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Zermatt offers an unforgettable experience. Marvel at the stunning mountainscapes and discover the picturesque village during a full free day at leisure. (B/D)

ENHANCED FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: Spend the day leisurely strolling around car-free Zermatt or join an excursion to the Matterhorn Glacier, an Alpine paradise of sky slopes, panoramic vistas, ice carvings and unique views. An amazing experience you do not want to miss.

Poetry in Motion

Take the local mountain train to Tasch before driving to Chillon. Enjoy a guided visit of the castle, built on a rock island on the shores of Lake Geneva, followed by a wine tasting experience. Continue to beautiful Bern, capital city of Switzerland. (B) 143 mi / 230 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURAL GEMS: Poised on a diminutive island on Lake Geneva and protected by a natural moat is the striking site of Chillon Castle. Discover the Castle's secrets as you stroll through it on your guided tour. What better way to complete your visit than with a wine tasting for good measure!

Coming up Roses in Berne

This morning, join your Local Guide for a walking tour. Stop at the Rose Garden for a panoramic view of the city. Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its ornate fountains and entertaining Zytglogge (clock tower) and stop at the Bear Park to see some of Bern's most famous inhabitants. En-route to Lucerne enjoy some free time in Interlaken, one of Switzerland's oldest resorts. (B) 78 mi / 125 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CITY SIGHTS: Explore the “City of Fountains” Bern - the capital city of Switzerland, dating back to the 12th century. Take in the medieval architecture in the Altstadt (Old Town) with its 6 kilometres of arcades and animated clock tower, and panoramic views of the city from the Rose Garden and Bear Park.

Lion Hearts in Lucerne

This morning, join a walking tour to see the highlights of Lucerne. Stop to admire the Lion Monument, a moving rock relief that Mark Twain called the “saddest sculpture in the world,” and the 14th century Chapel Bridge that crosses the River Reuss from the Altstadt (old town). Enjoy free time this afternoon to get better acquainted with this alpine gem. This evening, end your tour in style with a private boat cruise followed by a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D)

LOCAL FAVORITE - EPIC RIDE: Lucerne looks on top of the stunning lake Vierwaldstättersee, the “lake of the four forested Cantons.” This evening a private panoramic cruise on the lake will highlight the sheer beauty of Lucerne and its surroundings. To top off the evening and the tour, enjoy a farewell dinner with your travel companions.

Safe travels until we meet again!

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. A morning complimentary transfer to Zurich Airport in time for homebound flights leaving no earlier than 10 am. Extra nights are available in Zurich. (B) 43 mi/ 70km.

Trip Inclusions

  • Guided sightseeing in Vienna includes Heldenplatz
  • Globus Choice Excursions in Vienna − included in your tour with your choice of a Explore more of Vienna with your choice of included excursions. Experience the elegance of imperial Vienna with a guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace or a visit to the Johann Strauss Museum
  • Guided walking tour in Salzburg includes Mirabell Gardens, the Great Festival Hall, and Residenz.
  • Visit Innsbruck, Interlaken, and Mondsee
  • [LF] Glacier Express train ride from Chur to Zermatt with dinner served on board.
  • Mountain train ride to Zermatt
  • [LF] Guided visit of Chillon Castle with wine tasting.
  • Guided walking tour in Bern's Old Town features a stop at Bear Park and the Rose Garden
  • Walking tour in Lucerne includes the Lion Monument, the Old Town, and the Chapel Bridge
  • [LF] Private evening boat cruise from Lucerne on the stunning Vierwaldstättersee

  • 10 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners

  • Vienna: NH Belvedere (First-Class):
    NH Belvedere hotel in Vienna embodies the combined historical and modern character of the city, offering guests quality service and a convenient location within easy walking distance of the old city.
  • Salzburg: Hotel NH Salzburg City (First-Class):
    Located in the heart of the city, near the Mirabell Gardens, this 140-room contemporary property has Free Wi-Fi internet access throughout, a restaurant serving a mix of Austrian and International dishes, a cocktail bar and a lovely outdoor terrace where drinks and snacks can be enjoyed in the summer.
  • St. Moritz: Hotel Steffani (First-Class):
    A quintessential Alpine retreat enjoying a fantastic location in the heart of St. Moritz, just a stone's throw from the chic boutiques and funicular stations. This family-owned traditional hotel dates back to 1869 and offers 60 guestrooms furnished with local murals and high-quality materials. The hotel boasts 3 restaurants, 3 bars and a state of the art spa area with indoor pool, steam bath and sauna.
  • St. Moritz: Crystal Hotel St. Moritz (Superior First-Class):
    Nestled in the heart of St. Moritz, the Crystal Hotel blends timeless alpine charm with modern elegance. It is just steps away from the Chantarelle funicular which leads to the Corviglia-Marguns-Piz Nair ski area and is surrounded by luxury boutiques. The hotel's interiors are a tribute to Engadin architecture, featuring Swiss pine wood, elegant 1960s design elements, and luxurious fabrics. Each of the 74 guest rooms is appointed with a minibar, flat screen TV and Free Wi-Fi. The in-house restaurant offers a mix of Italian and mediterranean cuisine in a stylish setting and signature cocktails can be enjoyed in the relaxed ambiance of the piano bar. Other amenities include a modern gym, sauna, steam bath and relaxation area.
  • Zermatt: Seiler Schweizerhof (Superior First-Class):
    Situated in a central location in car-free Zermatt, hotel Schweizerhof is both alpine and urban. All 95 guest rooms, most with terrace or balcony and stunning view of the mountains, provide an inviting and homely atmosphere with all comforts. Enjoy Japanese-Peruvian seafood specialties, typical Swiss cheese-based dishes, or international cuisine at one of the restaurants available, or simply relax at the bar sipping a cocktail. The Spa by Schweizerhof is a wellness oasis with an indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam bath, a fully equipped fitness center is also available. Complimentary Wi-Fi internet access throughout the property.
  • Bern: Best Western Plus Hotel Bern (First-Class):
    "Offering contemporary comfort, this hotel impresses with its excellent city center location right next to the historic ""Zytglogge"" Tower and close to the French Church. The impressive Art Nouveau facade conceals a modern interior with a timeless design, all 116 air-condoned guest rooms have a telephone, radio, television, Free Wi-Fi access, Nespresso machine, hairdryer and safe. Guests have complimentary access to a fitness center and The ""Volkshaus 1914"" restaurant is a popular culinary meeting place with a stylish interior, drinks can be enjoyed in the Attika-bar which offers breathtaking views over the old roofs of the city. "
  • Lucerne: Astoria (First-Class):
    Ideally located in the heart of Lucerne, surrounded by mountains, close to its lake boasting crystal clear waters, the historic old town, and famous Chapel Bridge. All 252 contemporary rooms have a minibar and Wi-Fi. There's a plush cocktail lounge, a stylish café, and a rooftop bar affording city views. Other facilities include a full equipped modern gym.
  • Zurich: Renaissance Zurich Tower (Superior First-Class):
    This 300 room luxury hotel is housed in a modern tower building located in the vibrant Zurich West quarter. The exclusive Grill restaurant serves urban cuisine and the lounge bar offers drinks, snacks and cocktails. Other amenities include a fitness area on the 15th floor with city views, sauna and steam bath.

  • Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
  • Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
  • High altitudes may be challenging for some guests. St. Moritz elevation is 5,978 ft (1,822 m).
  • We encourage all guests to prebook their preferred included Globus Choice Excursions to ensure your selection is available. If your preference is not selected 35 days prior to departure, we will select a Choice excursion on your behalf based on availability.

Operator

Globus
 (813) Reviews
Total No. of Tours331
At Globus, we’re not just hooked on travel as a destination, but on the way it makes you feel. Our promise is to craft adventures that you’ll want to re-live forever. We’ve been creating wonder-filled first class touring for more than 90 years; we have the experience and local knowledge globally to craft immersive adventures more that make Globus travellers feel alive. Not only can you expect to see the big sites, we’ll also take you deeper in each location, right to the beating heart of each new discovery.

At Globus, we understand that your holiday is your treat – a gift from you to you. Let us connect you with a new world of people, places and experiences that will ignite your imagination.
Sightseeing & VIP Access
Sightseeing & VIP Access

Don't waste your precious time qeuing up, skip the lines with special VIP access at the must-see sites. Read more

Expert Local Guides
Expert Local Guides

Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of the destination. Read more

Culture Through Cuisine
Culture Through Cuisine

Globus has the recipe for a great vacation. Savour the flavours of Europe through its regional cuisine. Read more

Superior Hotels
Superior Hotels

Globus picks hotels picked on their centralised location, so you'll stay right in the heart of the destination. Read more

Travel in Style
Travel in Style

Globus' coaches offer one of the most comfortable, stress-free and eco-friendly ways to travel. Read more

Local Favorites
Local Favorites

Do as the locals do and enjoy unique experiences that you wouldn't find touring on your own. Read more

Trip Reviews (10)

Globus Reviews
Reviews 10 Reviews
Average Rating 4.8 out of 5
5 Star
80%
4 Star
20%
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Beautiful sights in Switzerland and Austria   1 , VIC, Australia, Sep 2025
We had a great time doing our own thing in Germany Rhine Falls, and part of Austria. We then joined Globus for their tour from Vienna to Lucerne, which was very well planned and most enjoyable. Zermat and The Matterhorn were exceptional as part of the Globus tour; and the performance at the Musikverein in Vienna was to die for.
Beautiful Palaces, Vistas and Music   1 , NSW, Australia, May 2025
Our thanks to Rachael from Global Journeys who did a fabulous job and paved the way, to help us effortlessly join Globus the Best of Austria and Switzerland Tour. We had been to Austria and Switzerland before and were so impressed, we wanted to see more. The highlight this time was spending more time in the spectacular mountains - going up the Matterhorn, read more Mount Pilatus and Hitler’s Eagle Nest. We really enjoyed this tour but found the Local Experts, although they were fabulously knowledgeable, they ended up being an information overload and quite draining. Also, some places had more time allotted than was required, by our group. Both were subjective of course. All in all, an amazing experience.
Best of Austria and Switzerland   1 , QLD, Australia, Jul 2022
This trip really showed the best of Austria and Switzerland in the allocated length of the trip. Tracey at Global Journeys was great to deal with with all questions answered. Loved the tour! Our guide was very approachable and informative, bus driver was fun with great driving skills, accommodation was also good. Only small issue was the older ones read more on the group did not like a shower over the bath as it was sometimes a bit difficult for them. Not all accommodation had this and I know it’s unavoidable.

Included tours are a must! I did all of them and was not disappointed. The group consisted largely of American tourists with a small group of us Aussies. Some highlights were going up the Matterhorn, going on the Glacier Express, seeing a bear swimming in Berne (the guide and driver had never seen this before - they missed it this time as well!), concert in Vienna, Mirabell Gardens, Zermatt, a car free town and visiting the church where the wedding took place in Sound of Music! Loved Lucerne as well. I chose to stay and extra night to go and visit the Jungfrau which was great. I also added a few extra days in Zurich and used the train to visit some extra places like Stein Am Rhein and the Rhein Falls. I would highly recommend this Globus Tour.
Scenery to die for 6 , NSW, Australia, Oct 2017
We were very lucky to have a wonderful tour guide, Sheryl Evans. She was very enthusiastic, helpful and knowledgeable, having lived and studied in the countries we visited.Our driver was another star being very careful and able to get the bus to do amazing things in very tight spaces. Hotels were very good except for the Mercure in Salzburg which was read more definitely not up to Globus standards. After receiving complaints from tour members and Sheryl, Globus compensated us by giving a free excursion.

The highlights for me were waking up in Zermatt and looking through my bedroom window to see the first snowfall of the season and the Matterhorn. What a sight! I also loved a visit to a Swiss farm where we had a fabulous dinner and just as we arrived a little calf was born. We were able to see its first steps. On the whole a most delightful trip.
Austria and Switzerland magic. 5 , NSW, Australia, Jun 2017
Our tour of Austria and Switzerland was magic. Among our highlights were visits to Vienna, Salzburg, Zermatt and Berne. Among optional tour highlights were visits to Hitler's Eagle's Nest, the Matterhorn Glacial Paradise, Trummelbach Falls and Mount Pilatus. I would recommend this tour to everyone. The tour operator, Globus, as always did a marvellous read more job. I would recommend Global Journeys for their professionalism and competitive prices.
Great coverage of Austrla and Switzerland 4 , NSW, Australia, Sep 2016
We took this tour in the European Autumn and the weather was perfect. Our Tour Guide Yanya was a first rate Guide; very professional and her knowledge was extensive in all areas toured which she delivered with interest, confidence and elegance. All the optional extras that we selected (3) we were very happy with value for money and were given plenty read more of time to discover things on our own. Included meals on Tour were excellent especially Salzburg. All Hotels were what we expected of the standard Globus has and with the exception of Berne were very centrally located. The Coach Driver Zoltan was a very experienced and professional driver and at no time was safety compromised. Our experience with Global Journeys, especially Hannah, was as efficient and professional as had been the case in our other experiences with this company. We will continue to deal with them when travelling in future and recommend them and Globus highly.
Thoroughly enjoyed this tour 5 , NZ, New Zealand, Aug 2015
We can honestly say that we thoroughly enjoyed our Best of Austria & Switzerland tour, enhanced by the excellent weather. Although we covered so much, the 2 day stopovers let us catch our breath. Our hotel accommodation was top class. High praise goes to our tour guide, Pieter Reynolds, who was the complete package - he is a knowledgeable, humorous read more & caring person who made us feel so pleased that we were on tour with him. The local guides that Pieter engaged in Vienna, Salzburg & Lucerne were all excellent & told us so much about their cities. We did all the optional extras except one dinner & enjoyed them all. If we had to pick 3 favourites, they would be the concert in Vienna, going up Little Matterhorn on a perfect clear day & the dinner on a Swiss farm ( we being farmers), quite a variety! We would also like to compliment Leanne Duffield for being so helpful assisting us with booking our tour. We're happy to recommend the whole experience.
Thoroughly enjoyed the whole trip and would recommend 5 , Australia, Aug 2014
Our tour guide Valeria was wonderful. She certainly packed everything into our tour and catered to all our needs. Nothing was too much trouble and always there to help. We thoroughly enjoyed our tour going from Austria into Switzerland. The Glacier Express trip was beautiful. Hotels and excursions included or extra were all wonderful. We thoroughly read more enjoyed the whole trip and would recommend to friends etc. The only negative was that WiFi on the coach was rarely working. I would tour again Globus.
No hesitation in recommending Global Journeys 3 , Australia, Oct 2012
This tour was really excellent, both in its itinerary and its overall organisation. We were most impressed with Globus. The tour director was terrific, with her vast knowledge of the country and history of the areas we were passing through. Our coach driver was also of the top order. His politeness and assistance throughout was excellent. We felt safe read more with him at all times. We did feel that the tour could have had an extra day or two, to allow for rest days, but we are also aware that tour operators try to keep cost to a reasonable level. Regarding the accommodation, this was of the best that could be expected. All hotels were top class, along with the included meals. On a scale of 1 to 5, we have no hesitation to give a score of 5, including value for money, organisation by Global Journeys and the personal assistance given by Yvonne when we wanted to alter our already booked flight times. Well done. We have no hesitation in recommending (and have already) Global Journeys to our friends and relatives.
Excellent itinerary and its organisation 2 , Australia, Aug 2012
We were once again very impressed with Globus. We had previously done a tour around Germany, and this second tour was more relaxed than that one, with more two-night stays in one location and plenty of free time in most places. There was only one day which was not very well planned, which was the day from Salzburg to St Moritz - in an attempt to get read more to St Moritz in time to do the optional excursion (which was lovely), there were not enough comfort stops, not long enough in Innsbruck, which really should have been a lunch stop - we ended up having to eat lunch on the bus as there was no real lunch stop this day - and also there was no free time to see anything of St Moritz after the optional excursion. It would have been preferable to have had an extra day in the tour in St Moritz so this travelling day could be better paced. There was also another day with a scheduled late start but then a stop later in the day which felt rushed. Other than these, the tour was really good, and the tour director was terrific.
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Wednesday 29 Apr 2026 29 Apr 26 Vienna
Saturday 09 May 2026 09 May 26 Zurich
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