Grand Alpine Express

Discover Europe

Embark on a journey through iconic European destinations like Budapest, Vienna, and the Austrian Tyrol. Traverse the stunning valleys of the Swiss Alps and explore the beauty of the Italian Lake District. Discover the hidden gem of Slovenia with its breathtaking Lake Bled.

Highlights:

Private concert at Vienna’s Palais Auersperg featuring the Vienna Supreme Orchestra
Travel over the spectacular Semmering Pass with its 16 viaducts and 15 tunnels
Take in the breathtaking beauty of Lake Bled on a special boat experience
Visit stunning Lake Como and enjoy a boat excursion
Explore the ethereal Postojna Cave network of limestone caverns and monuments
Enjoy a gondola ride through the iconic waterways of romantic Venice

Day 1- Budapest

Arrive in Budapest and be greeted at the airport, train station, or river ship landing. You’ll then be escorted to the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace for a two-night stay.

Kick off your journey with a welcome reception dinner at this stunning art nouveau landmark overlooking the River Danube. Meet your fellow travelers and enjoy panoramic views in style.

Meals: Dinner

Overnight: Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace

Day 2- Budapest

Explore the captivating city of Budapest, divided by the majestic River Danube. Admire the historic Buda and its impressive Royal Palace overlooking Pest’s bustling hub. Our city tour highlights the Castle District, St. Mathias Church, and Fishermen’s Bastion. Discover iconic landmarks like the Parliament, Opera House, and Heroes Square.

Afterwards, immerse yourself in leisure activities; take a leisurely walk along the Danube, sample delicious foods at the Great Market Hall, or unwind at one of Budapest’s renowned thermal baths. Treat yourself to relaxation at the hotel spa with an infinity-edge pool or energize at the modern fitness center. Enjoy a perfect day in this enchanting city!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace

Day 3- Vienna

Join us for a pre-departure drinks reception at Budapest Nyugati station before embarking on the luxurious Golden Eagle Danube Express. Settle into your cabin and indulge in a delicious lunch as we journey towards Vienna.

Vienna, the captivating capital of Austria, awaits with its stunning architecture, vibrant coffee culture, and iconic music scene. Explore the city on a horse-drawn carriage ride through charming cobblestone streets, visit the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, or simply wander at your own pace.

End your day with a special private concert by the Vienna Supreme Orchestra for an unforgettable evening in this cultural paradise.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express

Day 4- Semmering Pass, Lake Achen & Innsbruck

Today, we embark on a picturesque journey from Vienna through central Austria into the stunning Alps. Capture breathtaking views as we traverse the Semmering Pass with 16 viaducts and 15 tunnels, pass by the charming Kitzbuhel village, and enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Achen (Achensee).

Next stop: Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, known for its winter sports and architecture. Hop on the Nordkette funicular for panoramic views of the Alpine landscape from 2,256m above sea level. Get ready for an unforgettable experience in this Alpine city.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express

Day 5- Zurich

Embark on a scenic journey aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express through Vorarlberg, St. Anton, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland. Marvel at the beauty of Lake Zürich as we approach the bustling city of Zürich, known globally for its banking and finance industries. Explore the charming Old Town with its historic lanes and enjoy a traditional Swiss fondue tasting during our visit. Experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation on this unforgettable trip.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express

Day 6- St Gotthard Pass & Lake Como

Next, we embark on a picturesque journey from Zürich to Lake Como, passing by stunning Lakes Zug and Lucerne. Experience the breathtaking St Gotthard Pass before descending through Lugano towards Italy. Explore the unique beauty of Lake Como, surrounded by towering mountains and cliffs. Discover historic villas, beautifully kept gardens, and charming towns along the lakeshore. Enjoy a scenic boat cruise and visit the enchanting town of Bellagio. This is a day for the cameras you won’t want to miss!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express

Day 7- Verona & Trieste

Experience the charm of Verona, the city of Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’, with a guided walking tour that includes the ancient Roman Amphitheatre in Piazza Bra. Sail to Trieste for a visit to Miramare Castle and the historic Church of San Giusto, boasting breathtaking Byzantine-style architecture and intricate mosaics. A journey through Italy’s cultural gems awaits.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express

Day 8- Lake Bled & Ljubljana

Embark on a scenic journey from Trieste to Lake Bled in Slovenia, passing through the stunning Julian Alps. Explore the picturesque island, church, and castle of Lake Bled before heading to lively Ljubljana for a blend of historic charm and modern culture. Discover architectural wonders like Preseren Square, Three Bridges, and Dragon Bridge on our afternoon tour. This will be an unforgettable experience in north-western Slovenia!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express

Day 9- Postojna & Venice

Experience the magic of Postojna Caves on a private morning visit while our train stays overnight in Postojna. Journey south to Venice via a scenic causeway, arriving at Venice Santa Lucia station on the Grand Canal after lunch. Bid farewell to the train crew and check into a centrally located hotel for a two-night stay in Venice

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: TBC

Day 10- Venice

Experience the captivating and romantic beauty of Venice on a guided walking tour. Explore highlights such as St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Rialto Market. Don’t miss out on a gondola ride along Venice’s famous canals.

Alternatively, stroll through the charming artists’ district of Dorsoduro at your own pace. Take in breathtaking views from the Accademia Bridge.

End your day with a farewell reception dinner to reflect on your journey through this scenic part of Europe.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: TBC

Day 11- Venice

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before being transferred to the airport for your onward journey.

Extend your stay in Venice to discover more of this captivating city.

Meals: Breakfast

Our process is high-touch, and extremely personalized. Let us walk you through the steps when you decide to travel with Exeter.

Connect

Tell us what you’d love from your next adventure or ideas you have.

Customize

Let us craft itineraries tailored to your specific interests, travel style and wishlists.

Confirm

Collaborate and refine details with us as we begin to arrange logistics, such as accommodations, private drivers, or entrance fees.

Travel

Travel confidently with 24/7 local support and expert assistance.