Rhine and Alpine Adventures in Germany and Switzerland

Capture the best view of Frankfurt's skyline from this charming iron bridge.

The Eiserner Steg is the 170m/557ft iron footbridge that connects Frankfurt’s north and south banks. The bridge offers scenic views of both sides of the river, and undoubtedly the best view of Frankfurt’s famous skyline is from the Eiserner Steg looking north. Be sure to go in the evenings for the best lighting.

Check out the lovely mid-century stained-glass windows in this riverside church.

The neo-Gothic church is a Lutheran parish located directly on the south bank of the river. Visitors come mainly to enjoy the wonderful stained-glass windows by artist Charles Crodel, which were installed in 1956 to replace those destroyed in the war.

Make a visit to Frankfurt's most important art collection.

Städel is an art museum with 2,700 paintings, 100,000 drawings and prints, and 600 sculptures, including many masterpieces. The museum was founded in 1815 when the banker Johann Friedrich Städel left his priceless personal art collection to the city in his will. The exhibited art stretches back into the middle ages, however, the museum has worked hard to continuously increase its contemporary art collection as well.

North & South Banks

You can explore Frankfurt's Financial District and Jewish museums on the northern bank of the Main River and then spend some time walking along the river in Nizza Park. Once you're ready, cross the pedestrian Iron Bridge, weighted down with love locks, to the South Bank and Sachsenhausen, a district of Frankfurt that is renowned for its riverside museums dedicated to the arts and film as well as its lively restaurants and nightlife.

Take a trip across the river to see Frankfurt's laid back side.

The city of Frankfurt protected itself with a wall from 1390, and the village of Sachsenhausen was fortunate enough to be enveloped within the walls. This district still has a village atmosphere thanks to its cobblestone lanes and small squares. The Alte Sachsenhausen is located on the eastern part of the district close to the river. It is here that visitors can find traditional pubs, half-timbered houses, and narrow alleyways, and can choose from a good selection of bars and restaurants as well as music and nightlife. Be sure to try some of the famous Aplfelwein (apple wine or cider), that Sachsenhausen is famous for, with a plate of Frankfurt Green Sauce.

Find a nice bench to relax and take in the river view, and then go for a stroll with the locals.

The park is the perfect place to experience the river bank while taking in the optimistic, can-do atmosphere of this business-focused city. The park runs for 2.5km between the Lower Main Quay and the Friedensbrücke (Bridge of Peace). The park dates all the way back to the 17th century, and due to the moderate climate along the river, it's even possible to grow Mediterranean plants such as figs and olive trees. In warm weather, you'll find beer tents and other opportunities for refreshment and socializing.

Hike about one mile (1.6km) from the top chairlift station to this over-the-top but undeniably impressive monument celebrating German unification.

Niederwalddenkmal (Niederwald Monument, or Statue of Germania) is a gargantuan and rather bellicose monument celebrating the 1871 foundation of the German Reich after the end of the Franco-Prussian War. Until then, most people within the new empire had continued to think of themselves first and foremost as Prussians, Bavarians or Saxons, and only secondly as Germans, so the erection of national monuments such as Germania was therefore intended to awaken German national feeling.

Hike to these castle ruins overlooking the river.

From the Niederwald Monument, you can also follow the markings to the town of Assmannshausen and the picturesque medieval castle ruins of Burg Ehrenfels facing the equally romantic Mäuseturm (Mouse Tower) on an islet in the river originally used to collect river tolls until wrecked by the French in 1688. The hike from the Niederwalddenkmal to Assmannshausen takes two hours, and from there you can take a boat or train back to Rüdesheim.

Rhine Gorge Cruise

Board a riverboat from the town of Rüdesheim and take a cruise northwards up the incomparable Rhine River Gorge wreathed on either side with vineyards groaning with Reisling and Pinot Noir grapes, and colonized with impossibly romantic chateaux and castle ruins. Alternatively, hire a bicycle and pedal up the gorge, stopping off at rustic villages along the way, before heading back for a well-earned glass of the local wine.

Effortlessly ascend to the top of the hills overlooking the valley and go for a walk among the vineyards and forests.

This antique 1950s chairlift offers great views over the town and the Rhine Valley that streches away to Mainz. The upper station above many of the local vineyards is close to one of the most popular tourist sights in Germany for German tourists, the Niederwalddenkmal (Niederwald Monument, or Statue of Germania).

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Frankfurt hbf (i.e. Frankfurt Main Station) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Frankfurt hbf (i.e. Frankfurt Main Station) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Frankfurt hbf (i.e. Frankfurt Main Station) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Frankfurt hbf (i.e. Frankfurt Main Station) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

Guided Walk Tour of Historic Munich

Munich contains many reminders of a long and varied history but also encompasses the modern features of a strong and vibrant city. The insights of a local help make sense of the traditions, trends, and promises of Bavaria's Capital - sometimes referred to as the city of laptops and lederhosen. On this tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Munich and point out the many hidden treasures.

Guided Walk Tour of Historic Munich

Munich contains many reminders of a long and varied history but also encompasses the modern features of a strong and vibrant city. The insights of a local help make sense of the traditions, trends, and promises of Bavaria's Capital - sometimes referred to as the city of laptops and lederhosen. On this tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Munich and point out the many hidden treasures.

Guided Walk Tour of Historic Munich

Munich contains many reminders of a long and varied history but also encompasses the modern features of a strong and vibrant city. The insights of a local help make sense of the traditions, trends, and promises of Bavaria's Capital - sometimes referred to as the city of laptops and lederhosen. On this tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Munich and point out the many hidden treasures.

Guided Walk Tour of Historic Munich

Munich contains many reminders of a long and varied history but also encompasses the modern features of a strong and vibrant city. The insights of a local help make sense of the traditions, trends, and promises of Bavaria's Capital - sometimes referred to as the city of laptops and lederhosen. On this tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Munich and point out the many hidden treasures.

Explore King Ludwig II's own version of Versaille on the island of Herreninsel.

The Herrenchiemsee Palace is yet another of King Ludwig II's megalomaniacal building projects (such as Neuschwanstein Castle). This monument to regal absolutism, which is far more magnificently furnished than the palace of Versailles on which it was modeled, was begun in 1878. The State Bedroom is the most expensive single room built in the 19th century, helping to explain how Ludwig brought Bavaria to the brink of bankruptcy and why his ministers sought to have him declared unfit to rule. Inside the palace, there's a museum documenting Ludwig II's life.

Journey by boat to a splendid little island within the lake where you'll find a 1200-year old convent.

The 15.5-hectare (38-acre) Frauneninsel (the 'women's island' as opposed to Herreninsel, the 'men's island'), is home to 300 permanent residents and an active Benedictine convent called Frauenwörth, which was founded in the 800's AD. A number of pubs and cafés serve what are said to be among the best Bavarian dishes around, and the island's fishermen offer freshly smoked Chiemsee whitefish and other delicacies in their gardens.

Excursion to Lake Chiemsee

Also known as the 'Bavarian Sea', the majestic Lake Chiemsee is the largest lake in Bavaria with three beautiful islands which all benefit from regular ferry connections to the mainland. King Ludwig II built yet another grand palace, Herrenchiemsee Palace (also known as the Bavarian Versailles), on Herrenchiemsee island, while Fraueninsel island has an 8th-century Benedictine convent with some of the best Bavarian restaurants around and Krautinsel island is uninhabited.

Explore King Ludwig II's own version of Versaille on the island of Herreninsel.

The Herrenchiemsee Palace is yet another of King Ludwig II's megalomaniacal building projects (such as Neuschwanstein Castle). This monument to regal absolutism, which is far more magnificently furnished than the palace of Versailles on which it was modeled, was begun in 1878. The State Bedroom is the most expensive single room built in the 19th century, helping to explain how Ludwig brought Bavaria to the brink of bankruptcy and why his ministers sought to have him declared unfit to rule. Inside the palace, there's a museum documenting Ludwig II's life.

Documentation Center

Munich is the city where the National Socialist German Workers' Party (NSDAP), or Nazi Party, first took root. As the Nazis came into power, the Königsplatz was paved over and transformed into a perfect backdrop for staging their militaristic spectacles. Many of the physical changes they made to the space endure to this day. The history of the birth of German National Socialism to its horrific end in 1945 is brilliantly captured and displayed at the National Socialist Documentation Center which is located on the square.

Learn how Nazism managed to capture Germany and about the terrible consequences.

Opened in 2015, the documentation center shows how the Nazi Party was able to rise and rule Germany, and the role which the city of Munich played. Visitors learn not only about the origins of the Nazi movement and how they managed to seize power, but also about the regime during the war, and the post-war process of de-Nazification.

Documentation Center

Munich is the city where the National Socialist German Workers' Party (NSDAP), or Nazi Party, first took root. As the Nazis came into power, the Königsplatz was paved over and transformed into a perfect backdrop for staging their militaristic spectacles. Many of the physical changes they made to the space endure to this day. The history of the birth of German National Socialism to its horrific end in 1945 is brilliantly captured and displayed at the National Socialist Documentation Center which is located on the square.

Learn how Nazism managed to capture Germany and about the terrible consequences.

Opened in 2015, the documentation center shows how the Nazi Party was able to rise and rule Germany, and the role which the city of Munich played. Visitors learn not only about the origins of the Nazi movement and how they managed to seize power, but also about the regime during the war, and the post-war process of de-Nazification.

One of the most beautiful Baroque buildings in Switzerland

One of the most beautiful Baroque buildings in Switzerland

Walking Tour of Lucerne

During this 2 hour guided private tour you will take in all the major highlights of Lucerne including: Lion Monument, Chapel Bridge, the Old Town and the Jesuit Church. Your professional guide will tell you about the fascinating history of the town and why Lucerne is a favorite destination for the Swiss and foreign visitors alike. You will also enjoy stunning views around Lake Lucerne, especially of the city's mountain, Mount Pilatus.

Excursion to Mount Pilatus

Ride the steepest rack-railway in the world at a gradient of nearly 48 percent from Alpnachstad up the giant mountain of Mt Pilatus that looms over the city of Lucerne, or glide up the other side on a gondola from Kriens. The highest point, Tomlishorn, with superlative views of Lake Lucerne, is only 30min on foot from the hotels and restaurants near the top.

Excursion to Mount Pilatus

Ride the steepest rack-railway in the world at a gradient of nearly 48 percent from Alpnachstad up the giant mountain of Mt Pilatus that looms over the city of Lucerne, or glide up the other side on a gondola from Kriens. The highest point, Tomlishorn, with superlative views of Lake Lucerne, is only 30min on foot from the hotels and restaurants near the top.

Taxi Rail Drop-Off at Station

Lucerne taxis are generally reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. If you are picked up one hour prior to departure, you should have plenty of time to catch your train.

Taxi Rail Drop-Off at Station

Lucerne taxis are generally reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. If you are picked up one hour prior to departure, you should have plenty of time to catch your train.

Taxi Rail Drop-Off at Station

Lucerne taxis are generally reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. If you are picked up one hour prior to departure, you should have plenty of time to catch your train.

Taxi Rail Drop-Off at Station

Lucerne taxis are generally reliable and honest, so this is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. If you are picked up one hour prior to departure, you should have plenty of time to catch your train.

Jungfrau

Journey directly through the famous Eiger Mountain to what the Swiss called "The Top of Europe", the icy, windswept gap in the mountain ridges known as Jungfraujoch at 3,454m/11,332ft just below the summit of Jungfrau. The train ride to the top is not cheap, but it's the highest train station in Europe and definitely an unforgettable experience.

Village in the Bernese Alps

Village in the Bernese Alps that is considered to be the gateway to the Jungfrau Region. This village is popular among hikers and alpinists

Jungfrau

Journey directly through the famous Eiger Mountain to what the Swiss called "The Top of Europe", the icy, windswept gap in the mountain ridges known as Jungfraujoch at 3,454m/11,332ft just below the summit of Jungfrau. The train ride to the top is not cheap, but it's the highest train station in Europe and definitely an unforgettable experience.

Village in the Bernese Alps

Village in the Bernese Alps that is considered to be the gateway to the Jungfrau Region. This village is popular among hikers and alpinists

Self-Guided Cruise on Lake Thun

Surrounded by dazzling mountain scenery and a staccato of smart villages, Lake Thun is one of the two highly attractive waterways sandwiching the town of Interlaken that offers the opportunity of a relaxing boat ride from one end to the other. After disembarkation you can wander Thun's low-lying Old Town and its fairy-tale turreted castle before returning to Interlaken by train. Travel by boat and train is free with the Swiss Travel Pass included in your Full Itinerary.

Small village along Lake Thun

Self-Guided Cruise on Lake Thun

Surrounded by dazzling mountain scenery and a staccato of smart villages, Lake Thun is one of the two highly attractive waterways sandwiching the town of Interlaken that offers the opportunity of a relaxing boat ride from one end to the other. After disembarkation you can wander Thun's low-lying Old Town and its fairy-tale turreted castle before returning to Interlaken by train. Travel by boat and train is free with the Swiss Travel Pass included in your Full Itinerary.

Small village along Lake Thun

Highlights Walking Tour

Your private guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you for a 2-hour walk through the center of Geneva. On this walk, you will visit Bastions Park where you’ll see the Reformation Wall, built in 1909 to celebrate religious reform in Europe. You'll discover special places related to people like Jean Calvin and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, or even presidents of the United States like Woodrow Wilson or Bill Clinton. You will also visit the peaceful Old Town with its majestic St. Peter’s Cathedral, the Jardin d’Anglais, to admire one of Patek Philippe’s most famous works, and the surprising, delightful Flower Clock. The tour will end at the Nations Park, where you will see the United Nations Organization Headquarters.

A monumental reminder of Geneva’s history and influence during the Reformation.

The men depicted on the wall are the main protagonists of the Reformation, John Calvin, Willian Farel, Theodore Beza, and John Knox. Engraved on the wall is the Genevan motto “Post Tenebras Lux” which translates to “light after darkness.”

Highlights Walking Tour

Your private guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you for a 2-hour walk through the center of Geneva. On this walk, you will visit Bastions Park where you’ll see the Reformation Wall, built in 1909 to celebrate religious reform in Europe. You'll discover special places related to people like Jean Calvin and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, or even presidents of the United States like Woodrow Wilson or Bill Clinton. You will also visit the peaceful Old Town with its majestic St. Peter’s Cathedral, the Jardin d’Anglais, to admire one of Patek Philippe’s most famous works, and the surprising, delightful Flower Clock. The tour will end at the Nations Park, where you will see the United Nations Organization Headquarters.

A monumental reminder of Geneva’s history and influence during the Reformation.

The men depicted on the wall are the main protagonists of the Reformation, John Calvin, Willian Farel, Theodore Beza, and John Knox. Engraved on the wall is the Genevan motto “Post Tenebras Lux” which translates to “light after darkness.”

Excursion to Chamonix

Chamonix is a city of superlatives perfectly situated at the base of the highest peak of not only the Alps but in all of Europe, Mont Blanc. This French town has much to offer outdoor enthusiasts. For those who wish to get up close and personal with the mighty mountain, take the highest vertical cable car to Aiguille du Midi to come face to face with Mont Blanc and Step into the Void. See the largest glacier in France, Mer de Glace and walk through ice caves that have been carved into the glacier. Then explore the town center filled with outdoor shops, high-end boutiques, and traditional restaurants.

The Sea of Ice in French is the largest glacier in France and the third largest glacier in the Alps

Many attractions can be seen at the Mer de Glace including the Grotto de Glace, Gallery of Crystals, and the Glaciorium.

Excursion to Chamonix

Chamonix is a city of superlatives perfectly situated at the base of the highest peak of not only the Alps but in all of Europe, Mont Blanc. This French town has much to offer outdoor enthusiasts. For those who wish to get up close and personal with the mighty mountain, take the highest vertical cable car to Aiguille du Midi to come face to face with Mont Blanc and Step into the Void. See the largest glacier in France, Mer de Glace and walk through ice caves that have been carved into the glacier. Then explore the town center filled with outdoor shops, high-end boutiques, and traditional restaurants.

The Sea of Ice in French is the largest glacier in France and the third largest glacier in the Alps

Many attractions can be seen at the Mer de Glace including the Grotto de Glace, Gallery of Crystals, and the Glaciorium.

Airport Taxi Drop-off, Self-Arranged

Geneva taxis are always reliable and honest, so taking a taxi is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. Your hotel will be happy to arrange a pick up for you. If you are picked up about 2.5 hours before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with a little over two hours to spare. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen minutes or so.

Airport Taxi Drop-off, Self-Arranged

Geneva taxis are always reliable and honest, so taking a taxi is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. Your hotel will be happy to arrange a pick up for you. If you are picked up about 2.5 hours before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with a little over two hours to spare. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen minutes or so.

Airport Taxi Drop-off, Self-Arranged

Geneva taxis are always reliable and honest, so taking a taxi is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. Your hotel will be happy to arrange a pick up for you. If you are picked up about 2.5 hours before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with a little over two hours to spare. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen minutes or so.

Airport Taxi Drop-off, Self-Arranged

Geneva taxis are always reliable and honest, so taking a taxi is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. Your hotel will be happy to arrange a pick up for you. If you are picked up about 2.5 hours before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with a little over two hours to spare. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen minutes or so.