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28-Day Sydney, Bangkok, Italy, Switzerland and Austria Trip with Ravenna Cruise

Dates are flexible. This day-by-day plan is provisional until you choose exact travel dates.

Day 1
Bangkok

Fly to Bangkok

  1. Sydney to Bangkok flight — Fly from Sydney to Bangkok; allow roughly 12–16 hours door to door, including airport check-in, any connection, immigration and transfer into town. Aim to arrive with enough time to check in and rest.
  2. Chao Phraya River — Riverside; take a gentle evening ferry ride to get your bearings, ~1 hour.
  3. Pak Khlong Talat — Old Town; browse Bangkok’s flower market, ~45 minutes.
  4. The Sixth — Tha Tien; enjoy a first Thai meal near the river, about ฿200–400 per person.

Flight from Sydney

Fly from Sydney to Bangkok, allowing roughly 12–16 hours door to door, including airport check-in, any connection, immigration and the transfer into town. Check the full itinerary rather than just the flight time, and don’t plan anything that depends on arriving at a particular hour. After checking in, take a taxi or app-based ride to your hotel; Bangkok traffic can make the final leg unpredictable, so keep the evening easy.

Evening by the river

If you arrive with enough energy, head to the Chao Phraya River for a gentle ferry ride of about an hour and a first look at the city from the water. Services and last departures vary by pier and route, so check locally before setting out; budget roughly ฿20–฿40 for a simple public ferry ride. From the riverside, go on to Pak Khlong Talat, Bangkok’s flower market in the Old Town, for about 45 minutes among the stalls. It’s a working market that stays lively into the evening, but displays and activity vary by time.

Finish at The Sixth in Tha Tien for a first Thai meal, allowing about ฿200–฿400 per person. It’s a small, popular spot, so you may need to wait; if the flight has left you tired, skip the outing and save these stops for another evening rather than rushing through them.

Day 2
Bangkok

Bangkok stay

  1. The Grand Palace — Rattanakosin; see the historic royal complex in the morning, ~2–3 hours. Check current access rules and dress requirements; arrive early.
  2. Wat Pho — Rattanakosin; admire the Reclining Buddha and temple grounds, ~1.5 hours.
  3. Sala Rattanakosin — Tha Tien; pause for lunch with river views, about ฿400–800 per person.
  4. Museum Siam — Rattanakosin; explore Thai identity and history in an engaging museum, ~1.5 hours.
  5. Wat Arun — Thonburi riverfront; cross the river for a late-afternoon visit, ~1–1.5 hours.

Morning

Start early at The Grand Palace to beat the heat and tour groups; allow 2–3 hours. It generally opens around 8:30 am and last entry is usually mid-afternoon, but check current hours and access before setting out. The dress code is strict: cover shoulders and knees, and avoid see-through clothing. Admission is typically around ฿500. From central Bangkok, a taxi or ride-hail is simplest; allow extra time for traffic, or take the MRT to Sanam Chai and walk. Continue to nearby Wat Pho (about 10 minutes on foot) for the Reclining Buddha and temple grounds; allow about 1.5 hours. Entry is typically around ฿300, and modest dress is expected here too.

Lunch and afternoon

Walk to Sala Rattanakosin in Tha Tien for a river-view lunch; budget roughly ฿400–800 per person. Then head to Museum Siam, a short walk away, for an engaging look at Thai identity and history. Allow about 1.5 hours; it generally opens Tuesday–Sunday, 10 am–6 pm, so check the schedule if your flexible travel date falls on a Monday. Admission is often free for Thai visitors and around ฿100 for international adults; confirm current rates.

Late afternoon

Finish at Wat Arun across the river. From Tha Tien Pier, take the short cross-river ferry, usually just a few baht, then allow 1–1.5 hours to explore. Late afternoon gives you softer light on the temple’s porcelain details; check the day’s closing time before crossing, as it can vary. Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, and take care on the steep steps. Afterward, return by ferry and arrange a taxi or ride-hail from the Tha Tien side; traffic can make the trip back to your hotel slow.

Day 3
Bangkok

Bangkok stay

  1. Jim Thompson House Museum — Siam; tour the traditional teak houses and gardens, ~1.5 hours.
  2. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre — Pathum Wan; browse contemporary Thai art, ~1 hour.
  3. Somboon Seafood — Sam Yan; try classic Thai seafood dishes, about ฿500–1,000 per person.
  4. Lumphini Park — Pathum Wan; take a shaded walk or relax by the lake, ~1 hour.
  5. Mahanakhon SkyWalk — Silom; finish with panoramic city views, ~1.5 hours; check ahead for ticket availability.

Morning

Start at the Jim Thompson House Museum in Siam, a peaceful pocket of traditional teak houses and tropical gardens amid the city bustle. The guided visit takes about 1½ hours; it’s generally open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with last admission before closing. Admission is around ฿200, but check current hours and prices before you go. From there, walk or take the BTS one stop from National Stadium to Siam for the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre. Allow an hour to browse its changing contemporary Thai art exhibitions; admission is usually free, though it is generally closed on Mondays, so check the schedule if your day is flexible.

Lunch

Continue to Somboon Seafood in Sam Yan for familiar Bangkok seafood classics such as curry crab and stir-fried morning glory. Budget about ฿500–1,000 per person, depending on what you order. A taxi or short ride-hail from Siam is the easiest connection; allow extra time for traffic around lunchtime.

Afternoon and evening

Head to Lumphini Park for a relaxed hour by the lake and along the shaded paths. It’s a welcome breather after the galleries; go gently in the heat, and keep a little distance from the park’s famously large monitor lizards. From Sam Yan, a taxi or ride-hail is convenient, or use the MRT to reach the park’s Silom or Lumphini station entrances. Finish at Mahanakhon SkyWalk in Silom for sunset and after-dark city views. Allow about 1½ hours, check ticket availability and current prices in advance (tickets can be around ฿1,000 or more), and leave time for the journey from the park—traffic can make a short trip feel longer.

Day 4
Rome

Fly to Rome

Getting there from Bangkok
Flight with one stop via Qatar Airways, Emirates or Turkish Airlines (typically 14–19 hours total, depending on connection; roughly ฿18,000–45,000 one-way). Compare and book on Google Flights or directly with the airline. Choose a connection that gets you into Rome as early as practical; after the long journey, the arrival-day plans may need to stay flexible.
  1. Bangkok to Rome flight — Allow roughly 16–22 hours door to door, depending on the booked itinerary, plus airport arrival and Rome transfer; no connection or departure time assumed.
  2. Hotel check-in and rest — Central Rome; keep the first afternoon light after the long journey, ~2 hours.
  3. Piazza del Popolo — Campo Marzio; stretch your legs in a grand, central square, ~30 minutes.
  4. Pincian Hill — Villa Borghese; enjoy an easy sunset viewpoint, ~45 minutes.
  5. Osteria da Fortunata — Campo Marzio; settle in for Roman pasta, about €20–35 per person.

Arrival and a gentle reset

Allow roughly 16–22 hours door to door for the Bangkok–Rome flight, depending on your booked itinerary, then factor in passport control, baggage and the transfer from Fiumicino Airport into central Rome. A taxi to the centre takes around 45–60 minutes in normal traffic; the Leonardo Express to Roma Termini takes about 32 minutes, with extra time for the train and your onward transfer. Check in, hydrate and leave around two hours to rest. If delays or travel fatigue catch up with you, keep the evening flexible rather than rushing.

Late afternoon

When you’re ready, head to Piazza del Popolo in Campo Marzio for an easy first wander—half an hour is plenty to take in the broad square and its twin churches. From there, walk up to Pincian Hill in Villa Borghese; the gentle climb takes roughly 10–15 minutes, and the terrace is a lovely spot to watch the light soften over the rooftops. Allow about 45 minutes, and bring a light layer if you’re staying through sunset.

Dinner

From the viewpoint, make your way to Osteria da Fortunata near Campo de’ Fiori for fresh Roman pasta; expect around €20–35 per person before drinks. The walk takes roughly 20–25 minutes, or use a taxi if you’d rather save your legs. Check the specific branch’s current hours and consider booking ahead; after dinner, keep the rest of the night low-key and head back to your hotel to recover from the journey.

Day 5
Rome

Rome stay

  1. Colosseum — Monti; tour the amphitheatre in the morning, ~2 hours; timed admission is strongly recommended.
  2. Roman Forum — Monti; explore the ancient civic centre, ~2 hours; allow time for entry and walking between sites.
  3. Palatine Hill — Monti; see the archaeological remains and city views, ~1.5 hours.
  4. La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali — Monti; take a relaxed Roman lunch, about €25–40 per person.
  5. Piazza Venezia — Centro Storico; finish with a look at the Vittoriano and surrounding monuments, ~45 minutes.

Morning

Book a timed entry for the Colosseum as early as you can; admission is capacity-controlled, and the standard ticket usually covers the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill too, but check exactly what your selected ticket includes. Allow about two hours inside the amphitheatre, plus time for security and walking between entrances. Opening hours vary seasonally, so confirm them when booking. From the Colosseum, follow the signed route into the Roman Forum and allow around two hours to wander its ancient streets and ruins.

Lunch and afternoon

Continue uphill to Palatine Hill for about 1½ hours among the archaeological remains and views over the Forum. The ground is uneven and exposed, so wear comfortable shoes and carry water; in warm weather, take shade breaks. Then walk to La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali in Monti for a relaxed Roman lunch—budget roughly €25–40 per person and reserve ahead if possible. Opening days and lunch hours can vary, so check before setting out.

After lunch, stroll to Piazza Venezia for about 45 minutes to see the Vittoriano and the surrounding monuments. It’s a busy junction, so use the marked crossings and take care in the crowds. This is a substantial sightseeing day; keep the evening easy, and have a coffee or gelato nearby if you’d like a breather before heading back.

Day 6
Rome

Rome stay

  1. Pantheon — Centro Storico; visit the remarkable ancient temple, ~1 hour; check current ticketing and access requirements.
  2. Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè — Sant’Eustachio; stop for an espresso and a light breakfast, about €5–15 per person.
  3. Piazza Navona — Centro Storico; admire its fountains and Baroque setting, ~45 minutes.
  4. Campo de’ Fiori — Centro Storico; browse the square and nearby lanes, ~45 minutes.
  5. Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina — Centro Storico; enjoy a Roman lunch, about €35–60 per person; book ahead if possible.

Morning

Head to the Pantheon early, before the lanes fill up. Allow about an hour to take in the vast dome and its open oculus; check current opening hours, ticketing and access requirements before you go, as advance booking may be needed. From there, it’s a short walk to Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè for an espresso and light breakfast—budget around €5–15 per person. It’s famously busy, so order at the counter if you’re happy to keep things quick.

Late Morning

Wander through the Centro Storico to Piazza Navona (about 10 minutes on foot) and give yourself roughly 45 minutes to admire the fountains and Baroque façades. Continue on to Campo de’ Fiori, another easy walk, for a browse around the square and its surrounding lanes; allow about 45 minutes. The market is most lively in the morning, though stalls and activity vary by day.

Lunch

Finish at Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina, a short walk from Campo de’ Fiori, for a leisurely Roman lunch. Book ahead if possible, and allow €35–60 per person. This is a good place to slow down over a proper meal rather than trying to squeeze in another sight.

Day 7
Milan

Travel to Milan

Getting there from Rome
High-speed Frecciarossa from Roma Termini to Milano Centrale (about 3 hours; roughly €30–100). Book through Trenitalia or Trainline. Depart in the morning to have time to check in and travel onward in Milan.
  1. Rome to Milan by train — Take a high-speed train from Roma Termini to Milano Centrale; allow about 4–5 hours door to door for station access, check-in, the ride and arrival transfer. Reserve seats in advance.
  2. Hotel check-in and rest — Milan; leave time to settle in after the train journey, ~1 hour.
  3. Piazza Gae Aulenti — Porta Nuova; see the modern towers and public square, ~45 minutes.
  4. Eataly Milano Smeraldo — Porta Garibaldi; browse Italian food counters and have an easy dinner, about €20–40 per person.

Morning

Take a morning high-speed train from Roma Termini to Milano Centrale; the train ride is about three hours, but allow 4–5 hours door to door for getting to the station, boarding and reaching your hotel. Reserve seats ahead through Trenitalia or Trainline, and keep the schedule flexible enough to absorb delays. After checking in, leave about an hour to unpack and rest.

Afternoon

Head to Piazza Gae Aulenti in Porta Nuova for a gentle first look at Milan’s contemporary side: the raised piazza, fountains and glass-fronted towers make a striking contrast with Rome. From Milano Centrale, it’s roughly a 20-minute walk, or a short metro ride toward Garibaldi; allow around 45 minutes to wander.

Evening

Walk over to Eataly Milano Smeraldo near Porta Garibaldi for an easy dinner after the travel day. Browse the food counters before choosing a table or something casual, and budget about €20–40 per person. Check current opening hours and restaurant availability before setting out; if you’re tired, it’s an easy place to keep dinner simple without committing to a long meal.

Day 8
Milan

Milan stay

  1. Duomo di Milano — Centro Storico; visit the cathedral and, if booked, its rooftop terraces, ~2–3 hours. Reserve entry and rooftop access ahead.
  2. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II — Centro Storico; walk the elegant historic arcade, ~45 minutes.
  3. Luini — Centro Storico; grab a quick panzerotto lunch, about €5–15 per person.
  4. Teatro alla Scala Museum — Brera; discover the opera house’s history and collections, ~1–1.5 hours.
  5. Brera — Brera; explore the neighbourhood’s galleries and lanes, ~1 hour.

Morning

Start at Duomo di Milano when it opens, allowing 2–3 hours for the cathedral and, if you’ve booked rooftop access, the terraces. Reserve timed entry and rooftop access ahead; check the ticket options and current opening hours, as access can vary. The rooftop is especially worthwhile for its close-up view of the spires and the city. Afterward, spend about 45 minutes wandering Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, just beside the cathedral—look up at the glass dome and mosaics as you cross the arcade.

Lunch

Join the queue at Luini for a panzerotto, a handy quick lunch near the cathedral; expect roughly €5–15 per person, depending on what you order. It can get busy around lunchtime, so consider eating a little earlier or later rather than letting the queue eat into your afternoon.

Afternoon

Walk to Teatro alla Scala Museum in Brera—about 10–15 minutes from the Duomo area—or take the Metro if you’d rather save your feet. Allow 1–1½ hours to see the collection and, when access permits, views into the opera house; check the museum’s current hours and any performance-related restrictions before visiting. Finish with an unhurried hour exploring Brera’s lanes and galleries, with a coffee stop if you fancy one.

Day 9
Milan

Milan stay

  1. Santa Maria delle Grazie — Magenta; see Leonardo’s The Last Supper, ~1 hour. Timed tickets are limited and must be arranged well ahead; do not count on walk-up entry.
  2. Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio — Sant’Ambrogio; visit one of Milan’s most important historic churches, ~1 hour.
  3. Panzerotti Luini — Centro Storico; have a casual lunch, about €5–15 per person.
  4. Castello Sforzesco — Parco Sempione; explore the castle courtyards and museums, ~2 hours.
  5. Parco Sempione — Sempione; unwind with a stroll through the park, ~45 minutes.

Morning

Your anchor is Santa Maria delle Grazie in Magenta: the timed visit to Leonardo’s The Last Supper is tightly controlled, lasts about 15 minutes inside, and needs a separate hour or so for arrival, security and the church complex. Reserve through the official booking channel well ahead—walk-up entry is not something to count on. Afterward, walk about 15 minutes to Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio; allow an hour for its Romanesque architecture and quiet cloisters. Entry is generally free, though donations are welcome. Church hours can split around midday and vary by day, so check before you set out.

Lunch

Head toward Centro Storico for Panzerotti Luini, a casual stop near the shopping streets. A panzerotto is usually around €3–5, with roughly €5–15 per person a sensible lunch budget if you add a drink or more. It’s popular, so expect a queue at peak lunchtime; if it’s busy, take your food to a nearby spot rather than trying to linger inside.

Afternoon

Walk about 20 minutes, or take the Metro toward Cairoli, to Castello Sforzesco. Give the castle and museums around two hours; the courtyards are free to enter, while museum admission is typically about €5, with discounts and combined ticket options to check. Museum opening days and hours vary, and many museums close on Mondays, so verify the schedule—if they’re shut, enjoy the courtyards and grounds instead. Finish with an easy 45-minute wander through Parco Sempione, just beyond the castle, and take a breather under the trees before heading back into town.

Day 10
Zurich

Travel to Zurich

Getting there from Milan
Direct EuroCity train from Milano Centrale to Zürich HB (about 3 hours 20 minutes; roughly €30–100). Book through SBB, Trenitalia or Trainline; reserve a seat and check for any engineering-related schedule changes. A morning departure leaves time for a relaxed arrival.
  1. Milan to Zurich by train — Take a direct train if available for your date; allow about 5–6 hours door to door for station access, check-in, the train and arrival transfer. Check schedules and reserve seats.
  2. Hotel check-in and rest — Zurich; keep the arrival afternoon unhurried, ~1 hour.
  3. Lindenhof — Old Town; take in the river and rooftops from this central viewpoint, ~30 minutes.
  4. Zeughauskeller — Bahnhofstrasse area; try Swiss specialities in a historic setting, about CHF 25–45 per person.

Morning: Milan to Zurich

Take a morning EuroCity from Milano Centrale to Zürich HB; the train ride is about 3 hours 20 minutes, but allow roughly 5–6 hours door to door for getting to the station, boarding and reaching your hotel. Check the timetable for your travel day and reserve seats through SBB or Trenitalia, as schedules can change. After checking in, keep the afternoon gentle and give yourself about an hour to unpack and rest.

Afternoon: Lindenhof

Head to Lindenhof in the Old Town for a calm first look at Zurich: the elevated square opens onto rooftops and the Limmat River. It’s free to visit, and around 30 minutes is plenty. From central hotels, it’s an easy walk; from Zürich HB, allow about 10–15 minutes on foot, including the short uphill approach.

Evening: Zeughauskeller

For dinner, settle in at Zeughauskeller, a lively historic restaurant near Bahnhofstrasse, known for hearty Swiss and Central European dishes. Budget about CHF 25–45 per person before drinks; check current opening hours and consider booking if you’d like a particular dinner time. After the long travel day, it’s a good place to linger over a meal rather than add more stops.

Day 11
Zurich

Zurich stay

  1. Kunsthaus Zürich — Heimplatz; spend the morning with the museum’s Swiss and international art, ~2–3 hours.
  2. Café Sprüngli — Paradeplatz; take a coffee and pastry break, about CHF 10–25 per person.
  3. Fraumünster — Old Town; see the church’s stained-glass windows, ~45 minutes.
  4. Grossmünster — Old Town; visit the landmark church and consider the tower climb, ~1 hour.
  5. Lake Zurich promenade — Seefeld; enjoy a relaxed lakeside walk, ~1 hour.

Morning

Give Kunsthaus Zürich a relaxed 2–3 hours for its Swiss and international collection. It’s at Heimplatz, about a 10-minute tram ride from Zürich HB; check the museum’s current schedule before you go, as opening days and hours vary. Allow roughly CHF 20–30 for general admission, with discounts and special exhibitions affecting the price. Don’t try to cover every gallery—choose a few that catch your eye and leave time for a proper coffee break.

Lunch and Old Town

Head to Café Sprüngli at Paradeplatz for coffee and a pastry; budget about CHF 10–25 per person. From there, walk toward the Old Town and Fraumünster—allow around 45 minutes to see the stained glass, including the windows by Marc Chagall. Entry is usually a few francs; check current visiting hours and any service-related restrictions before setting out. Continue on foot to Grossmünster, about 10 minutes away. Allow roughly an hour for the church, and consider the tower climb if it’s open and you’re up for the stairs; there’s usually a small charge.

Afternoon by the lake

Finish with an easy hour along the Lake Zurich promenade in Seefeld. Walk from Grossmünster toward the lake and follow the waterfront south; it’s a pleasant way to wind down, with benches and spots to pause along the way. If you’d rather save your legs, local trams connect the Old Town and Seefeld. Keep the afternoon flexible for a lakeside sit or an unhurried stroll.

Day 12
Lucerne

Swiss stay

Getting there from Zurich
Direct Swiss train from Zürich HB to Luzern (about 45–55 minutes; roughly CHF 12–30). Check times and buy tickets through SBB. Trains are frequent, so a morning departure is convenient.
  1. Zurich to Lucerne by train — Allow about 1.5–2 hours door to door, including station transfers, check-in, the train and getting to your accommodation; frequent trains generally run on this route.
  2. Chapel Bridge — Old Town; cross Lucerne’s famous covered wooden bridge, ~30 minutes.
  3. Old Town Lucerne — Altstadt; wander the painted façades and narrow lanes, ~1 hour.
  4. Wirtshaus Galliker — Old Town; sample traditional Lucerne cooking, about CHF 30–50 per person.
  5. Musegg Wall — Old Town; walk a section of the historic ramparts, ~1 hour; tower access can be seasonal.

Morning: Zurich to Lucerne

Allow 1.5–2 hours door to door for the move from Zurich to Lucerne, including getting to Zürich HB, the train, and reaching your accommodation. Direct trains are frequent and take around 45–55 minutes; check SBB for the day’s timetable and fares, typically about CHF 12–30. After dropping your bags, head into the Old Town and cross Chapel Bridge—about 30 minutes at an easy pace, with a lovely view over the Reuss and the lake.

Lunch and Old Town

Spend about an hour wandering Old Town Lucerne, where painted façades and small lanes reward an unhurried look. Then settle in at Wirtshaus Galliker for traditional Lucerne cooking; budget roughly CHF 30–50 per person, and check opening hours and book ahead if you have a particular mealtime in mind.

Afternoon

Walk up to Musegg Wall for a one-hour stretch along the historic ramparts and views across the rooftops. Tower access is seasonal, so check what’s open before you go; if the towers are closed, the walk and outlooks are still worthwhile.

Day 13
Lucerne

Swiss stay

  1. Swiss Museum of Transport — Lido; explore Switzerland’s transport history and interactive exhibits, ~2–3 hours.
  2. Seebistro Luzern — Lido; have lunch by the lake, about CHF 25–45 per person.
  3. Lake Lucerne boat cruise — Depart from the lakeside pier; take a scenic ride, ~1.5–2 hours. Check the seasonal timetable.
  4. Jesuit Church — Old Town; step inside this riverside Baroque landmark, ~30 minutes.
  5. Rathaus Brauerei — Old Town; enjoy dinner beside the Reuss, about CHF 25–45 per person.

Morning

Spend 2–3 hours at the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lido, where hands-on exhibits cover trains, aviation, shipping and Swiss road travel. Check the museum’s current opening hours and ticket prices before you go; allow around CHF 35–40 for an adult admission, with some attractions or experiences costing extra. From central Lucerne, take a bus toward Verkehrshaus or walk along the lakeside if you fancy a longer, scenic start.

Lunch and lake

Keep lunch easy at Seebistro Luzern, right by the museum: budget about CHF 25–45 per person and enjoy the lake views without needing to rush across town. Then head to the nearby lakeside pier for a Lake Lucerne boat cruise. Choose a sailing of roughly 1½–2 hours, but check the seasonal timetable that morning—services and journey lengths vary, and it’s worth leaving a little time between lunch and boarding.

Afternoon and evening

After returning to town, walk toward the Jesuit Church, beside the Reuss, for a quiet 30-minute visit; check access on the day, as services or events can affect entry. Finish with dinner at Rathaus Brauerei, on the river in the Old Town. Expect about CHF 25–45 per person, and try to arrive a little before the busiest dinner period if you’d like a riverside table.

Day 14
Vienna

Travel to Vienna

Getting there from Lucerne
Train via Zürich HB, usually continuing through Austria to Wien Hbf (about 8–9 hours; roughly CHF 60–180). Compare connections and book through SBB or ÖBB. Take an early departure; this is a long travel day, so the evening plans in Vienna may need to be kept flexible.
  1. Lucerne to Vienna by train — Allow roughly 9–11 hours door to door, including station access, connections, check-in and arrival transfer; check the current timetable and book suitable connections. This is a long travel day.
  2. Hotel check-in and rest — Vienna; keep the evening flexible after the cross-border journey, ~1 hour.
  3. Stephansplatz — Innere Stadt; take a short orientation walk around the cathedral square, ~30 minutes.
  4. Figlmüller Bäckerstraße — Innere Stadt; settle in for Viennese schnitzel, about €25–40 per person; booking ahead is advisable.

Morning and travel

Take the train from Lucerne to Vienna via Zürich HB. It’s a long cross-border travel day: allow roughly 9–11 hours door to door for station access, connections and getting to your hotel. Check the current timetable and book a connection with comfortable transfer time; an early departure gives you the best chance of having an evening in Vienna.

Evening

After hotel check-in, take a proper rest and keep plans flexible. If you have the energy, head to Stephansplatz for a 30-minute orientation walk around the cathedral square; it’s a lovely first glimpse of the Innere Stadt, especially as the streets begin to glow after dark. From there, walk to Figlmüller Bäckerstraße for Viennese schnitzel. Budget about €25–40 per person, and book ahead if possible. If your train arrives late, check the restaurant’s current hours and make dinner the priority rather than rushing the walk.

Day 15
Vienna

Vienna stay

  1. Schönbrunn Palace — Hietzing; tour the palace rooms and gardens, ~3 hours. Book palace entry ahead and allow for security and queues.
  2. Café Residenz — Schönbrunn; stop for strudel and coffee, about €10–25 per person.
  3. Naschmarkt — Wieden; browse the market stalls and food counters, ~1–1.5 hours; check which stalls are operating on your visit day.
  4. Karlskirche — Karlsplatz; admire the church’s Baroque interior, ~45 minutes.

Morning

Head early for Schönbrunn Palace in Hietzing; allow about 3 hours for the palace rooms and gardens, plus extra time for security and queues. Book palace entry in advance, since admission is timed and availability can be limited. From central Vienna, take the U4 to Schönbrunn or Hietzing station; check the palace’s current opening hours before you go.

Lunch and Afternoon

Stay on the grounds for strudel and coffee at Café Residenz—budget around €10–25 per person. Then take the U4 back towards the centre and continue to Naschmarkt in Wieden for a relaxed 1–1½-hour browse of produce stalls and food counters. Stall hours vary, so check what will be open on your visit day.

Late Afternoon

Walk or take the U4 to Karlsplatz for Karlskirche. Give yourself about 45 minutes to admire the Baroque interior; check current visiting hours and any service-related access restrictions before setting off. If you have energy afterwards, linger around the square rather than trying to squeeze in another major sight.

Day 16
Vienna

Vienna stay

  1. Hofburg — Innere Stadt; visit the imperial apartments and Sisi Museum, ~2 hours; check ticket options in advance.
  2. Demel — Innere Stadt; take a classic Viennese coffee-and-cake break, about €10–25 per person.
  3. Austrian National Library State Hall — Innere Stadt; see the ornate historic library room, ~45 minutes; confirm visitor access.
  4. Albertina — Innere Stadt; explore its art collections and exhibitions, ~1.5–2 hours.
  5. Plachutta Wollzeile — Innere Stadt; try Viennese tafelspitz, about €35–60 per person.

Morning

Start at the Hofburg in the Innere Stadt for the imperial apartments and Sisi Museum; allow about two hours, plus time for entry and security. Check the ticket options and current opening hours before you go, and book ahead if timed admission is offered. Afterwards, walk a few minutes to Demel for coffee and cake—budget around €10–25 per person. It’s a famous stop, so allow for a possible queue.

Afternoon

Continue on foot to the Austrian National Library State Hall, a richly decorated historic reading room; allow about 45 minutes and confirm visitor access and hours before setting out, as access can vary. Then walk to the Albertina for its art collections and exhibitions. Give it 1½–2 hours; admission prices depend on the exhibitions, so check the current ticket options and closing time. The sights are close together, making this a comfortable day on foot, with trams or the U-Bahn handy if you’d rather save your legs.

Evening

Finish with dinner at Plachutta Wollzeile, known for Viennese tafelspitz; budget about €35–60 per person. It’s a popular restaurant, so reserving ahead is sensible. From the Albertina, it’s roughly a 10–15-minute walk, or take a short tram or taxi ride if you’re ready to put your feet up.

Day 17
Ravenna

Travel to Ravenna

Getting there from Vienna
Train via Bologna Centrale, then continue by regional train to Ravenna (about 9–11 hours total; roughly €60–160). Book the Vienna–Bologna journey through ÖBB or Trainline and the onward train through Trenitalia. Leave early and check the connection carefully; consider an overnight stop if the available itinerary arrives too late for your plans.
  1. Vienna to Ravenna by train — Allow about 10–12 hours door to door, including station access, connections, check-in and arrival transfer; check the current timetable and reserve suitable connections. Consider an overnight stop if the available connections make this too long.
  2. Hotel check-in and rest — Ravenna; leave time to settle in, ~1 hour.
  3. Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo — Ravenna centre; see its celebrated early Christian mosaics, ~1 hour.
  4. Ca’ de Ven — Ravenna centre; enjoy Romagna cuisine in a historic setting, about €25–45 per person.

Morning and journey

The Vienna–Ravenna rail trip is a long one: allow 10–12 hours door to door, including getting to the station, changing trains and reaching your hotel. Check the day’s connections through ÖBB and Trenitalia, and choose transfers with enough breathing room. An early start is sensible, but if the available itinerary would get you into Ravenna too late, add an overnight stop rather than rushing the evening.

Arrival and evening

Check in, take about an hour to unpack and rest, then head into Ravenna’s historic centre for Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo. Allow roughly an hour for its remarkable early Christian mosaics; check current opening hours and admission before setting out, as access can vary. From the centre, Ca’ de Ven is an easy walk for dinner in a historic setting. Expect around €25–45 per person; booking ahead is worthwhile, especially if you arrive later in the evening. If the train connections run late, keep dinner flexible and confirm the restaurant’s last seating.

Day 18
Ravenna

Ravenna cruise departure city

  1. Basilica di San Vitale — Ravenna centre; spend the morning with Ravenna’s extraordinary Byzantine mosaics, ~1 hour.
  2. Mausoleum of Galla Placidia — Ravenna centre; see its small but brilliant mosaic interior, ~30 minutes; check ticket arrangements for the combined monuments.
  3. Piazza del Popolo — Ravenna centre; take a relaxed walk through the city’s central square, ~30 minutes.
  4. Mercato Coperto Ravenna — Ravenna centre; sample local food at the indoor market, about €15–30 per person.
  5. Dante’s Tomb — Ravenna centre; visit the poet’s quiet memorial, ~30 minutes.

Morning

Begin at Basilica di San Vitale, ideally near opening time, when it’s quieter and the mosaics glow beautifully in the morning light. Allow about an hour, then walk a few minutes to the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia for its intimate, starry-blue mosaic interior; 30 minutes is plenty. Check the current opening hours and ticket arrangements before you go: these monuments are often covered by a combined ticket, and entry conditions can change.

Late morning and lunch

Wander on foot to Piazza del Popolo, Ravenna’s elegant central square, and take around half an hour to pause beneath its arcades and watch the city go by. Continue to Mercato Coperto Ravenna for lunch: browse the stalls and choose local specialties, allowing roughly €15–30 per person. Check the market’s opening schedule before setting out, as hours can vary.

Afternoon

Finish at Dante’s Tomb, a short walk from the market. Set aside about 30 minutes for the quiet memorial and its small surrounding area. The historic centre is easy to explore on foot; wear comfortable shoes, and leave a little slack between stops in case you linger over lunch or find a church or mosaic detail that catches your eye.

Day 19
Ravenna

Cruise departs Ravenna

  1. Ravenna cruise embarkation — Transfer to the cruise terminal and allow several hours for luggage drop, check-in, security and boarding; confirm the terminal and boarding window with the cruise line.
  2. Ship’s upper deck — On board; get oriented and enjoy the sail-away views, ~1 hour.
  3. Main dining room — On board; have your first dinner at a ship-provided restaurant, typically included or charged according to your fare.
  4. Theatre or live entertainment — On board; choose an evening show or performance, ~1–2 hours.

Morning: Embarkation

Follow your cruise line’s instructions for the Ravenna cruise terminal—ships generally embark at Porto Corsini, not in Ravenna’s historic centre. Allow around 30–45 minutes by road from central Ravenna, plus time for the cruise-line transfer or taxi, traffic and check-in. Aim to arrive within your assigned boarding window, leaving several hours for luggage drop, security and boarding; keep your passport and cruise documents in your day bag, and confirm the terminal and transfer arrangements directly with the cruise line.

Afternoon: Settle aboard

Once on board, head to the ship’s upper deck for an easy first look around and, when departure begins, the sail-away views. Give yourself about an hour to get oriented, locate your cabin and check the ship’s daily programme before the decks get busy. Boarding and departure timings vary, so follow the crew’s announcements rather than relying on a fixed schedule.

Evening

Have your first dinner in the main dining room; whether it’s included or carries an extra charge depends on your fare and any dining arrangements, so check your booking. Then choose a theatre or live entertainment performance from that evening’s programme. Shows are usually around one to two hours, and popular performances can fill up—check whether reservations are needed once you’re aboard.

Day 20
Ravenna

Cruise

  1. Ship’s fitness centre — On board; start with a gentle workout or stretch, ~45 minutes.
  2. Main dining room — On board; enjoy breakfast at a ship-provided restaurant, typically included or charged according to your fare.
  3. Pool deck — On board; relax between scheduled activities, ~1–2 hours.
  4. Specialty dining venue — On board; consider a reservation for a different dinner experience, with any extra charge depending on the fare.
  5. Observation lounge — On board; settle in for an evening view and quiet reading, ~1 hour.

Morning

Ease into the sea day with about 45 minutes in the ship’s fitness centre—a gentle workout or stretching is a good start, especially if you’re still finding your cruise rhythm. Check the daily programme for opening hours and any class or equipment sign-up requirements. Then head to the main dining room for breakfast; it’s commonly included, but check your fare and the day’s menu and service times.

Afternoon

Take a proper pause on the pool deck, allowing an hour or two to swim, read or simply watch the sea go by. Bring sun protection, and check the ship’s daily schedule for pool hours and any busy periods around scheduled activities. Keep the rest of the afternoon free rather than trying to fill every hour.

Evening

If you’d like a change from the main dining room, consider booking the specialty dining venue; reservations and extra charges depend on the ship and your fare, so check the onboard app or guest services early. Finish in the observation lounge with a drink, a book or the evening view—about an hour is a lovely, unhurried way to wind down.

Day 21
Ravenna

Cruise

  1. Ship’s library — On board; spend a quiet morning with a book or travel guide, ~1 hour.
  2. Main dining room — On board; have lunch at a ship-provided restaurant, typically included or charged according to your fare.
  3. Spa and thermal area — On board; book a treatment or use the facilities if available, ~1–2 hours; check for extra fees.
  4. Cooking demonstration or enrichment talk — On board; join a scheduled activity if offered, ~1 hour.
  5. Ship’s buffet — On board; choose a flexible dinner, with inclusion depending on your fare.

Morning

Spend an unhurried hour in the ship’s library with a book or guidebook. It’s a good spot to slow down between port days; check the daily programme or library noticeboard for opening times and any borrowing rules.

Lunch and afternoon

Have lunch in the main dining room; meals may be included or subject to charges depending on your fare and sailing. Afterwards, set aside 1–2 hours for the spa and thermal area. Treatments and access can cost extra, and popular slots may need booking, so check availability with the spa desk early. Later, look for a cooking demonstration or enrichment talk in the daily schedule—these vary by sailing and may require advance sign-up.

Evening

Keep dinner flexible at the ship’s buffet. Check the day’s dining information for opening hours and what your fare covers, then leave the rest of the evening open to enjoy the ship at your own pace.

Day 22
Ravenna

Cruise

  1. Promenade deck — On board; take a fresh-air walk, ~45 minutes.
  2. Main dining room — On board; enjoy breakfast at a ship-provided restaurant, typically included or charged according to your fare.
  3. Onboard shops — On board; browse during open hours, ~45 minutes.
  4. Poolside café — On board; have a light lunch, with inclusion depending on the fare.
  5. Live music lounge — On board; enjoy an easy evening set, ~1 hour.

Morning

Start with a Promenade deck walk of about 45 minutes while the air is cool and the ship is relatively quiet. It’s a lovely way to stretch your legs on a sea day; bring a light layer, as the breeze can feel brisk even in May. Then enjoy breakfast in the Main dining room. Breakfast is often included, but check your fare and the ship’s daily schedule for service hours.

Lunch and afternoon

Browse the Onboard shops for around 45 minutes when they’re open; opening times can vary on sea days, so check the programme or shop notices before heading down. Afterward, settle in for a light lunch at the Poolside café. Some items or drinks may cost extra depending on your fare, so check the menu before ordering.

Evening

Wind down with an easy, roughly one-hour set in the Live music lounge. Check the daily programme for the performance time and arrive a little early if you’d like to choose a seat; the rest of the evening can stay wonderfully unplanned.

Day 23
Ravenna

Cruise

  1. Ship’s fitness centre — On board; choose a class or a self-guided workout, ~45 minutes.
  2. Main dining room — On board; have lunch at a ship-provided restaurant, typically included or charged according to your fare.
  3. Art gallery or onboard exhibition — On board; browse the displays, ~45 minutes.
  4. Specialty dining venue — On board; reserve dinner if you would like a change from the main dining room, with any extra charge depending on the fare.
  5. Theatre or live entertainment — On board; catch an evening performance, ~1–2 hours.

Morning

Start with a 45-minute session in the ship’s fitness centre—a class or an easy self-guided workout, depending on what’s listed in the daily programme. Classes and popular equipment times may require advance sign-up, so check the onboard app or noticeboard. Then take lunch in the main dining room; it’s generally included, but confirm what your cruise fare covers and check the day’s service hours.

Afternoon

Browse the art gallery or onboard exhibition for about 45 minutes. Displays and visiting hours vary by ship, so use the daily programme to see what’s open and whether there’s a gallery talk. Keep the rest of the afternoon loose for a coffee, a quiet spot on deck or simply putting your feet up.

Evening

If you’d like a change of scene for dinner, book a table at the specialty dining venue; reservations are sensible for popular times, and an extra charge may apply depending on your fare. Finish with a theatre or live-entertainment performance, allowing 1–2 hours. Check the evening schedule and reserve seats if the ship offers bookings—the show time can shape when you’ll want to dine.

Day 24
Ravenna

Cruise

  1. Observation lounge — On board; enjoy the view with a slow morning coffee, ~1 hour.
  2. Main dining room — On board; have breakfast at a ship-provided restaurant, typically included or charged according to your fare.
  3. Pool deck — On board; take a relaxed swim or read in the sun, ~1–2 hours.
  4. Ship’s buffet — On board; pick up lunch at a flexible time, with inclusion depending on your fare.
  5. Trivia or social game — On board; join a scheduled group activity, ~1 hour.

Morning

Ease into the day with a slow coffee in the ship’s observation lounge—about an hour to watch the coastline or open water go by, depending on the ship’s position. Then head to the main dining room for breakfast; service hours and whether it’s included depend on your cruise fare, so check the onboard app or daily schedule.

Late morning and lunch

Spend an unhurried hour or two at the pool deck: take a relaxed swim, find a lounger with a book, or simply enjoy the sun. Bring sunscreen and a light layer for breezy stretches, and check the daily programme for pool hours or any reserved-use periods. Pick up lunch at the ship’s buffet when it suits you; it’s a flexible option, though inclusion depends on your fare and the buffet’s posted service times.

Afternoon

Join a scheduled trivia or social game for about an hour—a low-key way to meet fellow passengers between port days. Check the daily programme for the time and venue, and arrive a little early if teams or seats are limited.

Day 25
Ravenna

Cruise

  1. Promenade deck — On board; enjoy a final unhurried morning walk, ~45 minutes.
  2. Main dining room — On board; have lunch at a ship-provided restaurant, typically included or charged according to your fare.
  3. Spa and thermal area — On board; take time to unwind, ~1–2 hours; check availability and extra charges.
  4. Ship’s photography gallery — On board; browse cruise photos and keepsakes, ~45 minutes.
  5. Main dining room — On board; enjoy a farewell dinner, with inclusion depending on your fare.

Morning

Take one last unhurried Promenade deck walk for about 45 minutes. The deck may be breezy, so bring a light layer, and check the ship’s daily programme for any access restrictions or safety notices. Afterward, have lunch in the Main dining room; check the day’s service hours and your fare details, as meals and drinks vary by package.

Afternoon

Set aside 1–2 hours to unwind in the ship’s Spa and thermal area. Treatments and thermal-suite access often cost extra, and spaces or appointments may need booking—check the onboard app or spa desk before settling on a time. Then browse the Ship’s photography gallery for about 45 minutes; photos and keepsakes are optional purchases, so there’s no need to rush through.

Evening

Enjoy a farewell dinner in the Main dining room. Check whether your preferred seating is assigned and what your fare includes, then leave a little time afterward to take in the ship’s atmosphere and get your belongings organized for disembarkation.

Day 26
Ravenna

Cruise ends

  1. Ship’s breakfast venue — On board; have breakfast and review disembarkation instructions, ~1 hour.
  2. Ravenna cruise disembarkation — Allow several hours for luggage collection, customs if applicable and the transfer into Ravenna; follow the cruise line’s assigned departure arrangements.
  3. Basilica di Sant’Apollinare in Classe — Classe; visit this notable basilica outside the centre, ~1–1.5 hours; arrange local transport and check opening access.
  4. Trattoria al Cerchio — Ravenna centre; enjoy a relaxed Romagna meal, about €25–45 per person.
  5. Ravenna city centre — Ravenna centre; take an easy final stroll and prepare for the onward flight, ~45 minutes.

Morning

Have breakfast aboard and spend about an hour checking the cruise line’s disembarkation instructions, confirming your luggage tags and keeping essentials with you. Disembarkation can take several hours once luggage collection, any customs checks and the transfer from the port are included, so follow your assigned departure arrangements rather than booking a tightly timed visit. From Porto Corsini, allow roughly 30–45 minutes by road to Ravenna; arrange the onward ride through the cruise line or use a taxi.

Late morning and lunch

Once you’re in Ravenna, head out to Basilica di Sant’Apollinare in Classe, outside the city centre. Give yourself about 1–1½ hours for the basilica and its striking apse mosaics; check current opening hours and any midday closure before setting off, and arrange transport there and back, as it’s not a quick walk from the centre. Then return to Trattoria al Cerchio for a relaxed Romagna lunch—budget around €25–45 per person, and check opening times or reserve if you’re arriving at a busy meal hour.

Afternoon

Take an easy 45-minute wander through Ravenna city centre before settling in for the night. Keep the stroll flexible after the long disembarkation morning, and use the time to organise your luggage and confirm tomorrow’s airport transfer and flight details.

Day 27
Bangkok

Fly to Bangkok for one night

Getting there from Ravenna
Train from Ravenna to Bologna Centrale, then the Marconi Express to Bologna Airport (about 1.5–2 hours door to door; roughly €20–35). Book the train with Trenitalia and check the Marconi Express website for tickets and service updates. Fly from Bologna to Bangkok with one stop (usually about 14–20 hours total; roughly €500–1,200 one-way); compare on Google Flights and book with the airline. Allow a generous airport connection buffer. Since you fly Bangkok–Sydney the next day, favor an itinerary arriving early enough to rest overnight and avoid a tight separate-ticket connection.
  1. Ravenna to Bangkok flight — Allow a substantial door-to-door travel day: transfer to the airport serving your booked flight, arrive early for check-in, account for any connections, then transfer in Bangkok. Confirm the airport and routing when booking; no specific flight or connection is assumed.
  2. Hotel check-in and rest — Bangkok; keep the evening close to your accommodation, ~1 hour.
  3. ICONSIAM — Chao Phraya riverfront; browse the indoor market-style food and shopping areas, ~1–2 hours.
  4. SookSiam — ICONSIAM; sample regional Thai food in the market-style dining area, about ฿300–700 per person.
  5. Chao Phraya Express Boat — Riverside; take a short evening ride if operating hours and your location allow, ~45 minutes.

Travel day and check-in

Treat this as a full travel day: allow time to get from Ravenna to your booked departure airport, arrive early for check-in, account for any connection, then transfer from Bangkok airport to your hotel. Confirm the departure airport and routing before booking; no particular flight or connection is guaranteed. This is a tight turnaround after the cruise, and the flight plus airport time may leave little evening in Bangkok. Keep the night close to your accommodation and rest for tomorrow’s flight to Sydney.

Evening by the river

If you arrive with enough energy and time, head to ICONSIAM on the Chao Phraya riverfront for a relaxed browse through its indoor market-style food and shopping areas. Set aside around 1–2 hours, but check the centre’s current hours and allow for Bangkok traffic on the way there. At SookSiam, sample regional Thai dishes; budget roughly ฿300–700 per person, depending on what you order.

A short boat ride, if timing allows

Finish with a roughly 45-minute ride on the Chao Phraya Express Boat if services are still operating and the pier is convenient from ICONSIAM. Check the latest boat timetable before setting out, since evening services and routes vary. If your flight arrives late or you’re feeling the travel day, skip the outing rather than rushing—an extra Bangkok night would make the onward connection to Sydney much less stressful.

Day 28
Sydney

Return to Sydney

Getting there from Bangkok
Nonstop flight from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK) to Sydney (SYD), when available (about 9–10 hours; roughly ฿12,000–30,000 one-way). Compare on Google Flights and book directly with the airline. Check the airport and departure time against your arrival from the previous day's flight; allow plenty of time between separate tickets.
  1. Bangkok to Sydney flight — Travel to the airport for your booked flight; allow roughly 12–16 hours door to door, including check-in, any connection, immigration and arrival logistics in Sydney.
  2. Airport check-in and security — Bangkok airport; arrive within the airline’s recommended check-in window and keep transfer time in mind.
  3. In-flight meal service — On board; use the flight’s meal service and rest during the long journey.
  4. Sydney arrival — Sydney Airport; allow time for immigration, baggage collection and onward transport.

Before departure

Keep today deliberately simple: this is a long-haul travel day, and the flight itself takes roughly 9–10 hours if your booked service is nonstop. Check your ticket carefully for the departure airport—Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) are not interchangeable—and follow your airline’s recommended check-in window. If you booked the flight separately from yesterday’s arrival, leave a generous buffer; don’t rely on a tight connection.

In flight

Use the onboard meal service and try to rest. Keep your passport, arrival details and anything you’ll need at the border easy to reach, and remember that the total journey can take roughly 12–16 hours door to door once airport check-in, immigration, baggage and onward travel are included.

Sydney arrival

At Sydney Airport, allow time for Australian passport control, baggage collection and biosecurity screening. Declare food and other restricted items rather than guessing—Australia’s biosecurity rules are strict. Once through, follow signs for the train, taxi or rideshare pickup area; the train is convenient for central Sydney, while a taxi or rideshare may suit you better with bulky luggage.

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