Austria, Switzerland, North Italy: 15-Day Itinerary
Austria (5 Days, Nature Itinerary)
Wednesday, May 15: Vienna
Start your Austrian adventure in Vienna, the capital city known for its rich history and stunning architecture. In the morning, explore the historic center, including St. Stephen's Cathedral and Hofburg Palace. Afternoon can be spent visiting the Schönbrunn Palace and its beautiful gardens. In the evening, indulge in Viennese cuisine and enjoy a classical music concert.
St. Stephen's Cathedral: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Hofburg Palace: Estimated cost: EUR 13, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Schönbrunn Palace: Estimated cost: EUR 20, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
Café Central: Enjoy a traditional Viennese breakfast at Café Central, known for its elegant atmosphere and historic setting. Average cost for a meal is about €10-15 per person.
Figlmüller Bäckerstraße: For lunch, head to Figlmüller Bäckerstraße and try their famous schnitzel, a traditional Austrian dish. Average cost for a meal is about €15-20 per person.
Steirereck: Treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at Steirereck, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative and refined Austrian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about €100-150 per person.
Thursday, May 16: Salzburg
Head to Salzburg, famous as the birthplace of Mozart and for its stunning Alpine backdrop. Start your day by visiting the Hohensalzburg Fortress for panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the charming old town and visit Mozart's birthplace. End the day with a relaxing walk along the Salzach River.
Hohensalzburg Fortress: Estimated cost: EUR 12, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Mozart's Birthplace: Estimated cost: EUR 11, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try Cafe Bazar, a charming cafe located on the banks of the Salzach River. Indulge in their delicious pastries and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 10 euros per person.
For lunch, head to Sternbräu, a traditional Austrian brewery and restaurant. Sample their hearty Austrian dishes, such as Wiener Schnitzel or Tafelspitz, along with a refreshing locally brewed beer. Average cost for a meal is about 15 euros per person.
For dinner, treat yourself to a culinary experience at Restaurant Esszimmer. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers innovative and beautifully presented dishes made with local and seasonal ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 60 euros per person.
Friday, May 17: Hallstatt
Take a day trip to the picturesque village of Hallstatt. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Austrian Alps and marvel at the stunning beauty of Lake Hallstatt. Explore the village, visit the Salt Mine, and take a boat ride on the lake. Don't forget to capture the iconic views of Hallstatt from the Skywalk.
Hallstatt Village: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Salt Mine: Estimated cost: EUR 34, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Skywalk: Estimated cost: EUR 6, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
A charming breakfast spot in Hallstatt is Café Derbl. They offer a variety of freshly baked pastries and delicious coffee. You can enjoy a delightful meal here for around $10 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Gasthof Zauner. This traditional restaurant serves authentic Austrian cuisine, including hearty soups, schnitzels, and strudels. A meal here will cost you approximately $20 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Seewirt Zauner. Located right on the lake, this restaurant offers stunning views and a menu featuring seafood specialties and local delicacies. Expect to spend around $30 per person for a fantastic dinner here.
Saturday, May 18: Innsbruck
Make your way to Innsbruck, a picturesque city nestled in the heart of the Alps. Start your day by exploring the historic Old Town and visit the Golden Roof. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride up to the Nordkette mountain range for breathtaking views. End the day by indulging in traditional Tyrolean cuisine.
Golden Roof: Estimated cost: EUR 3, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Sacher, known for its traditional Austrian pastries and famous Sacher torte. Average cost for a meal is about 15 euros per person.
For lunch, head to Gasthof Weisses Rössl, a charming restaurant offering a wide selection of Austrian dishes including Wiener Schnitzel and Tafelspitz. Average cost for a meal is about 20 euros per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Restaurant Die Wilderin, known for its exquisite Tyrolean cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about 35 euros per person.
Sunday, May 19: Graz
On your last day in Austria, visit the charming city of Graz. Start your day by exploring the Schlossberg Hill, offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town and visit the Grazer Dom. Enjoy a relaxing evening by the Mur River.
Schlossberg Hill: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Grazer Dom: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Switzerland (5 Days, Nature Itinerary)
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Mitte, a cozy café located in the heart of Graz. Enjoy their delicious pastries and coffee while soaking in the charming atmosphere. The average cost for a meal is about €10 per person.
For lunch, try Der Steirer, a traditional Austrian restaurant known for its regional cuisine. Indulge in hearty dishes such as Wiener Schnitzel and pumpkin seed oil salad. The average cost for a meal is about €15 per person.
For dinner, visit Aiola Upstairs, a stylish rooftop restaurant with breathtaking views of Graz. Savor their gourmet dishes created with fresh local ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about €40 per person.
Restaurants
Breakfast: Café Kaiserfeld
A charming café located in the heart of Graz, Café Kaiserfeld offers a wide range of breakfast options including freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and delicious coffee. Average cost for a meal is about €10 per person.
Lunch: Der Steirer
Situated in the historic district, Der Steirer is a popular lunch spot known for its traditional Austrian dishes such as schnitzel, goulash, and potato salad. Average cost for a meal is about €15 per person.
Dinner: Aiola City
For a memorable dinner experience, head to Aiola City, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of Graz. The menu features modern cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about €30 per person.
Monday, May 20: Zurich
Start your Swiss adventure in Zurich, the vibrant financial hub. Explore the picturesque streets of the Old Town and visit famous landmarks like Grossmünster and Fraumünster. In the afternoon, take a boat tour on Lake Zurich for stunning views of the city skyline. End the day by enjoying Swiss chocolates and shopping on Bahnhofstrasse.
Grossmünster: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Fraumünster: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Boat Tour on Lake Zurich: Estimated cost: EUR 30, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Café Sprüngli: A famous Swiss café known for its delicious pastries, sandwiches, and hot beverages. Average cost for breakfast is about 20 CHF per person.
The vegetarian restaurant Hiltl: A popular lunch spot offering a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Average cost for lunch is about 25 CHF per person.
Zunfthaus zur Waag: A traditional Swiss restaurant located in a historic guild house. Enjoy classic Swiss dishes like Zürcher Geschnetzeltes and fondue. Average cost for dinner is about 40 CHF per person.
Tuesday, May 21: Lucerne
Head to the breathtaking city of Lucerne surrounded by mountains and a beautiful lake. Start your day by visiting the Chapel Bridge and Old Town. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to Mount Pilatus for stunning panoramic views. Enjoy dinner by the lake and take a leisurely stroll along the promenade.
Chapel Bridge: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Mount Pilatus: Estimated cost: EUR 72, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try Café de Ville located in the heart of Lucerne. Indulge in their delicious pastries and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 15 euros per person.
For lunch, visit Rathaus Brauerei, a traditional Swiss brewery and restaurant situated in the Old Town. Savor their authentic Swiss dishes like cheese fondue and Rösti. Average cost for a meal is about 25 euros per person.
For dinner, La Cucina is a fantastic Italian restaurant overlooking Lake Lucerne. Feast on their mouthwatering pasta and pizza dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 30 euros per person.
Wednesday, May 22: Interlaken
Travel to Interlaken, a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. Take a thrilling paragliding flight in the morning for a bird's-eye view of the Swiss Alps. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Jungfraujoch region and visit the "Top of Europe" for breathtaking views. End the day by relaxing at a lakeside cafe.
Paragliding Flight: Estimated cost: EUR 170, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Jungfraujoch: Estimated cost: EUR 190, Time spent: 4-5 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try Café de Paris, a charming cafe known for its delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about 10 euros per person.
If you're looking for a place to have lunch, check out Restaurant Schuh, a traditional Swiss restaurant offering a variety of local dishes including fondue and raclette. The average cost for a lunch meal is about 20 euros per person.
In the evening, head to Restaurant Ried for a memorable dinner experience. This elegant restaurant serves gourmet Italian cuisine with a modern twist. The average cost for a dinner meal is about 40 euros per person.
Thursday, May 23: Zermatt
Take a scenic train ride to Zermatt, a car-free alpine village nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn. Enjoy spectacular hiking trails and take the Gornergrat Railway for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. In the evening, savor traditional Swiss cheese fondue.
Hiking in Zermatt: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Gornergrat Railway: Estimated cost: EUR 94, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Café du Pont in Zermatt. Indulge in freshly baked croissants and pastries with a cup of aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 8-12 euros per person.
For lunch, head to Chez Vrony, a charming mountain restaurant with a sunny terrace offering breathtaking views. Try their signature dish, the Alpine Macaroni, made with local cheese and crispy onions. Average cost for a meal is about 20-30 euros per person.
For an unforgettable dinner experience, visit Restaurant Whymper-Stube. Set in a rustic chalet, they serve classic Swiss cuisine with an innovative twist. Don't miss their mouthwatering raclette, paired with a fine selection of wines. Average cost for a meal is about 40-60 euros per person.
Friday, May 24: Geneva
End your Swiss journey in the cosmopolitan city of Geneva. Start your day by visiting the Jet d'Eau, a famous water fountain on Lake Geneva. In the afternoon, explore the Old Town and visit St. Pierre Cathedral. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the lake and indulge in Swiss cuisine at a lakeside restaurant.
Jet d'Eau: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
St. Pierre Cathedral: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Boat Ride on Lake Geneva: Estimated cost: EUR 15, Time spent: 2-3 hours
North Italy (5 Days, Standard Itinerary)
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café du Centre, located in the heart of Geneva's Old Town. Enjoy freshly baked croissants and a cup of aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Les Armures, a historic restaurant known for its traditional Swiss cuisine. Try their famous fondue or raclette, served with a selection of cured meats and crispy potatoes. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Restaurant Bayview, located on the shores of Lake Geneva. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers stunning views and a gourmet menu featuring the finest local ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $150 per person.
Saturday, May 25: Milan
Start your Italian adventure in Milan, the fashion and design capital. In the morning, visit the iconic Milan Cathedral (Duomo) and explore the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for luxury shopping. In the afternoon, admire Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper" at the Santa Maria delle Grazie. End the day by enjoying a traditional Italian dinner.
Milan Cathedral: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
The Last Supper: Estimated cost: EUR 12, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
If you're looking for a delicious breakfast in Milan, head to Café Trussardi. This elegant café offers a variety of pastries, cakes, and traditional Italian coffee. Average cost for a meal is about €10 per person.
For lunch, try Panini Durini, a popular sandwich shop known for their freshly baked bread and gourmet fillings. Average cost for a meal is about €8 per person.
For dinner, indulge in classic Italian cuisine at Il Baretto. This cozy restaurant offers a range of pasta, seafood, and meat dishes made with the finest ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about €25 per person.
Sunday, May 26: Venice
Travel to Venice, the enchanting city built on water. Start your day with a gondola ride along the canals, passing under picturesque bridges. Explore the narrow streets and visit famous landmarks like St. Mark's Square and the Doge's Palace. In the evening, enjoy a romantic dinner overlooking the Grand Canal.
Gondola Ride: Estimated cost: EUR 80, Time spent: 1-2 hours
St. Mark's Square: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Doge's Palace: Estimated cost: EUR 20, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Caffè Florian, located in St. Mark's Square. Enjoy a variety of pastries and coffees while taking in the charming atmosphere of the oldest café in Venice. Average cost for a meal is about €15 per person.
For lunch, head to Trattoria da Romano, a family-run restaurant known for its fresh seafood dishes. Located in Burano, a colorful island near Venice, this charming spot offers a taste of traditional Italian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about €25 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at Osteria Alle Testiere, a cozy seafood restaurant tucked away in Venice's Castello district. Feast on exquisite seafood specialties prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about €40 per person.
Monday, May 27: Florence
Head to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Visit the iconic Duomo and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. Explore the Uffizi Gallery and admire masterpieces by Michelangelo and Botticelli. In the evening, indulge in Tuscan cuisine and stroll along the Arno River.
Florence Cathedral (Duomo): Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Uffizi Gallery: Estimated cost: EUR 20, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Florence is Caffè Gilli, known for its traditional Italian pastries and coffee. Enjoy a croissant and cappuccino for around €5 per person.
For lunch, try Trattoria Zà Zà, a cozy restaurant serving authentic Tuscan dishes, including pappa al pomodoro and bistecca alla Fiorentina. Expect to spend around €20 per person for a satisfying meal.
For dinner, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at Osteria del Cinghiale Bianco. This restaurant specializes in Tuscan cuisine, offering dishes like wild boar ragu and homemade pasta. The average cost for a meal here is approximately €40 per person.
Tuesday, May 28: Cinque Terre
Take a day trip to the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre. Start with a visit to Monterosso al Mare and explore its stunning beaches. Take a scenic hike along the cliffside trails to Vernazza and enjoy breathtaking views. In the evening, savor fresh seafood in Riomaggiore.
Monterosso al Mare: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Hiking in Cinque Terre: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at La Cantina di Miky, located in Monterosso al Mare. Enjoy freshly baked pastries and aromatic Italian coffee. Average cost for a meal is about €10 per person.
For lunch, head to Ristorante Belforte in Vernazza. Indulge in their mouthwatering pasta dishes and homemade focaccia. Average cost for a meal is about €15-20 per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at Ripa del Sole in Riomaggiore. Experience traditional Ligurian cuisine with a modern twist, paired with regional wines. Average cost for a meal is about €25-30 per person.
Wednesday, May 29: Rome
End your Italian journey in the eternal city of Rome. Start your day by visiting the iconic Colosseum and Roman Forum. In the afternoon, explore the Vatican City and marvel at the Sistine Chapel. End your trip with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Trastevere and enjoy traditional Roman cuisine.
Colosseum: Estimated cost: EUR 16, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Vatican City: Estimated cost: EUR 30, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Trastevere: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Start your day at Caffè Sant'Eustachio, a historic coffee house in Rome known for its high-quality espresso and pastries. A typical breakfast here costs around €10 per person.
Lunch: For a delicious and authentic Roman lunch, head to Ristorante Armando al Pantheon, located near the iconic Pantheon. This family-run restaurant offers traditional dishes like amatriciana and cacio e pepe. A satisfying lunch here costs around €20-€30 per person.
Dinner: Indulge in a fine dining experience at La Pergola, a Michelin three-star restaurant located inside the Rome Cavalieri hotel. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city while savoring gourmet dishes prepared by renowned chef Heinz Beck. A dinner at La Pergola can cost around €200-€300 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Austria, don't miss the picturesque village of Hallstatt, known for its stunning beauty and charming streets. In Switzerland, take a detour to the picturesque town of Lauterbrunnen, nestled in a valley with magnificent waterfalls. In North Italy, venture off the beaten path to the colorful town of Burano, famous for its vibrant houses and lace-making tradition. Locals also love the Cinque Terre National Park, a hidden gem with its stunning coastal scenery and hiking trails.