2026 Austria & Switzerland inc. Rhine River Viking Cruise
Tour Departs: 24 May 2026
Tour Length: 26 Days
Price From: Share Twin NZD $26,000.00pp | Supplement for Single Room NZD $11,250.00pp | Total cost for Single Room NZD $37,250.00
Embark on a comprehensive tour where we board the luxurious Viking Herja in Basel for a 7-night cruise down the Rhine River, enjoying medieval towns, grand cathedrals, and exquisite regional wines and cuisine. Continuing with the most beautiful train ride in the world – The Glacier Express from Engadine right to the Matterhorn.
Viking Cruises, destination-focused journeys on all seven continents. Voted #1 for Oceans, Rivers & Expeditions by the readers of Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler.
Fully Escorted from New Zealand by a Maher Tour Leader
International Economy Flights (upgrade available)
Superior-grade Hotel Accommodation
Air-conditioned Transport
Exceptional Meals
Entrance Fees & Gratuity Tips
We start our comprehensive tour across the border in the Austrian capital and city of music, Vienna, before we journey to magical Salzburg and on into Switzerland. It might be a relatively small country surrounded by its larger neighbours, but Switzerland certainly offers a feast of sublime sights and experiences for the visitor – spectacular scenery, magnificent alpine lakes, snow-capped mountain peaks, lush rolling green meadows and a mixture of medieval old towns, country villages, and modern sophisticated cities. Highlights are many and include the Matterhorn, Jungfrau and a journey on one of the most famous trains in the world, the Glacier Express. To finish the tour, we join our river ship for 7 nights cruising on the Rhine enjoying the fairy-tale sights and romantic twists and turns en route to Amsterdam.
Viking Herja – Our Floating Hotel for 7-nights
We board our luxury river cruise ship “Viking Herja” in Basel and enjoy 7 nights exploring one of Europe’s best-loved rivers. Discover the turreted fortresses, grand cathedrals, historic cities, medieval towns and stunning scenery of the Middle Rhine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Taste the region’s renowned white wines, the roots of its terraced vineyards reaching back to Roman times. Savour the various culinary traditions of Alsace. With calls in Strasbourg, Speyer, Cologne, and concluding in Amsterdam, this journey reveals a rich landscape of beauty and culture.
Glacier Express – World’s Most Beautiful Train Ride & Sought After Seats in Switzerland
The Glacier Express offers a journey for the senses – from Engadine right to the Matterhorn. On its relaxing drive from dazzling St. Moritz to equally sophisticated Zermatt, the Glacier Express delights travellers with scenic attractions and technical state-of-the-art achievements. With its overhight panoramic windows, the Glacier Express opens up unobstructed views of unique landscapes.
A rail journey through the Swiss Alps has never been so luxurious in Excellence Class. With guaranteed window seats, an exclusive bar, on-board entertainment, a concierge services, the Glacier Express Excellence Class is setting new standards.
Tour Highlights:
Imperial Vienna for a 3-night stay
Salzburg, Zermatt, Geneva, Interlaken, – all 2-night stays
Journey up both the Matterhorn and Jungfrau peaks
Glacier Express Railway
Cruise the Rhine for 7 nights from Basel to Amsterdam on board Viking Herja in French Balcony Staterooms
Itinerary
Sunday 24 May Home – Dubai
Late this afternoon, we report to the airport and join the flight to Dubai.
Monday 25 May Dubai (D)
We arrive in Dubai early this morning and after clearing Customs and Immigration formalities, we are met and transferred to our hotel for a two-night stay. There is time to rest up after the flight until mid-afternoon where we meet up to enjoy a visit to Dubai Miracle Garden. Each season, as the weather begins to cool at the onset of winter, the gates reopen. With more than 150 million flowers in full bloom, this 72,000-sq-m paradise has flowered into one of the region’s most picturesque, sweet-scented destinations for more than a decade now. There is time for exploration at the garden, before we return to the hotel for dinner this evening.
Tuesday 26 May Dubai (B,D)
We start our day with a visit to the Museum of the Future. One of Dubai’s most famous landmarks, the museum takes pride of place along the city’s superhighway, Sheikh Zayed Road. Founded by the Dubai Future Foundation and launched on 22 February 2022, the museum explores how society could evolve in the coming decades using science and technology. Termed a ‘living museum’, it incorporates elements of traditional exhibitions, immersive theatre and themed attractions, so visitors can look beyond the present and towards the future’s limitless possibilities. Visitors have the chance to engage with this game-changing technology. Each floor of the museum is designed like an expansive, interactive movie set, brought to life by expert storytellers, technologists and visionary artists. Early afternoon, we return to the hotel to relax. The remainder of the day is at leisure, until we meet up again for dinner this evening.
Wednesday 27 May Dubai – Vienna (B)
A midday transfer to the airport where we join the 6 hour flight to Vienna. On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel for a 3-night stay.
Thursday 28 May Vienna (B,D)
On this morning’s tour, we drive along the Ringstrasse, pass the State Opera House, the Jewish Quarter and stop at Heldenplatz (Heroes Square) in front of the Hofburg Palace, once the winter residence of the Austrian royal family and now the residence of the Austrian President. We leave the coach for a walk through to St Stephens Cathedral, the iconic heart of the city. There is time for lunch – you must visit a traditional Viennese coffee house – before this afternoon’s visit to the Schonbrunn Palace, perhaps Europe’s most impressive palace complex. 640 years of Hapsburg monarchy ended here in 1918 with the abdication of the last monarch and the start of the Austrian Republic.
Friday 29 May Vienna (B,D)
Today has been left entirely free for you to enjoy Vienna at your leisure. Maybe visit one of the many galleries and museums, perhaps a tour of the Spanish Riding School, enjoy the elegant shopping “strasses” of the Old City, or just sit at an outdoor café and watch the world go by. This evening, we enjoy all things Viennese with a superb dinner at the Orangerie at Schonbrunn Palace including a concert of Viennese classical music with works by Johann Strauss and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. A wonderful finale to our stay in Vienna.
Saturday 30 May Vienna – Salzburg (B.D)
Leaving Vienna, we enjoy a leisurely cruise along one of the most scenic parts of the Danube. At Melk, we visit the abbey, one of Europe’s most beautiful sights, which has been home to Benedictine Monks for over 900 years, notwithstanding the Reformation, and the occupations by Napoleon and the Nazis. The abbey of today is 18th century baroque with the major restoration completed in 1996. We continue our journey through the beautiful Salzkammergut lakeland to the pretty lakeside town of Mondsee where we visit the Basilica of St Michaels which featured in the wedding scene of the Sound of Music. From there it’s a short drive into Salzburg where we stay for 2 nights.
Sunday 31 May Salzburg (B)
Salzburg is picturebook Austria, the city of music, whether it be Mozart or Julie Andrews. This morning, we take a walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage town starting at Mirbell Gardens then across the river to the Old Town, past Mozart’s birthplace and down the Getreidegasse with its popular shops and into Residenz Square with its magnificent forecourt and fountain. This afternoon, we leave the city for a spectacular mountain drive to the so-called “Eagle’s Nest” (Kehlsteinhaus), built as a teahouse for Adolf Hitler on Kehlstein Mountain at an elevation of 6,017 ft / 1,834 m. The site can only be reached by taking the special bus to the elevator shaft set deep in the mountain. Once at the top, the views are magnificent and there is time to explore the rooms which resonate with history.
Monday 01 June Salzburg – Innsbruck – St Moritz (B,D)
Leaving Salzburg, we enter the Austrian Tyol, a majestic and enchanting landscape that is sure to excite the senses. At its heart is the regions capital, Innsbruck, presided over by the magnificent Hapsburg palace and baroque cathedral. We take a stroll through the ancient and narrow lanes to see Emperor Maximillian’s Golden Roof, the symbol of the city which covers the gothic bay built to celebrate his wedding circa 1500AD. We then continue across the border into Switzerland along the alpine valley past deep blue lakes and forests overlooked by high mountain peaks. Our destination for the overnight stay is the chic resort of St Moritz, the leisure playground for the rich and famous in both winter and summer.
Tuesday 02 June St Moritz – Andermatt (Glacier Express) – Zermatt (B,D)
We continue our journey by coach enjoying the spectacular alpine scenery before we reach Andermatt and join the Glacier Express, one of the world’s most famous trains. Sit back in first class comfort in the panoramic cars for an afternoon journey offering unrestricted views of rugged cliffs, pristine forests, deep gorges, rolling meadows, clear lakes and typical mountain villages.. Our destination is the vehicle-free mountain resort town of Zermatt where we stay for 2 nights.
Wednesday 03 June Zermatt – Matterhorn Excursion (B)
Zermatt lies at the foot of the Matterhorn, perhaps the world’s most famous mountain, and is surrounded by majestic peaks. This morning, we join the cable car for the trip up the Matterhorn. From the summit, enjoy the incredible views of the ice-bound Swiss Alps and the magnificent panorama of the highest peaks in Switzerland / Italy / France. On our return, there is time to enjoy the traffic-free village shops. This evening, maybe dine at one of the many Swiss resturants around the town.
Thursday 04 June Zermatt – Geneva (B,D)
This morning we take the train to Taesch back to our coach and then continue our journey westwards. On reaching the northern arm of Lake Geneva, we stop at Chillon Castle, an architectural jewel which for over 1,000 years of history has inspired artists and writers, from Jean-Jacques Rousseau to Victor Hugo and Lord Byron. We then continue on to Montreux which, as well as its beautiful lakeside setting and vineyard backdrops, is well known for its annual international jazz festival. There is time for a stroll along the promenade before we continue our journey through to Geneva for a 2 night stay.
Friday 05 June Geneva (B)
Geneva is certainly an international city being home to many international organisations including Red Cross and United Nations agencies. In the course of our morning tour, we see their headquarters as well as the old town and the parks and gardens including the lakeside English Garden where the famous floral clock is located. We finish the tour with a cruise on Lake Geneva offering great views of the Jet d’Eau fountain which is symbolic of the city. The afternoon is at leisure.
Saturday 06 June Geneva – Bern – Interlaken (B,D)
From Geneva, we travel north to the lakeside city of Lausanne, home to the International Olympic Committee and many other sporting organisations. The city’s skyline is dominated by the grand gothic Cathedral. Leaving Lake Geneva, we turn north to the city of Berne, the Swiss capital and once voted Europe’s most floral city. We enjoy a walking tour through the well-preserved old town as well as magnificent views from the Rose Garden. The last leg of our journey takes us to Interlaken, our “between the lakes” home where we stay for 2 nights.
Sunday 07 June Interlaken – Jungfrau (B)
On today’s excursion, we travel along Grindelwald Valley following the Lutschine River to Lauterbrunnen at the head of the valley of waterfalls where we see the Staubbach Falls plunge 300m. Then we take the cogwheel train ride to the summit of the Jungfrau, the “Top of Europe” at 3,470m, for magnificent views of the world of eternal ice and snow. An absolutely spectacular day.
Monday 08 June Interlaken – Lucerne – Basel (B,D)
From Interlaken, it is a short run through to Lucerne, skirting the shores of Lake Brienz and over the Brunig Pass. At Lucerne, our local guide joins us for a sightseeing tour of the city. We see the impressive Lion Monument dedicated to the Swiss Guards who protected the French Royalty during the French Revolution. Another feature is the city’s symbol, the covered wooden Chapel Bridge spanning the Reuss River, unique because of its interior paintings dating back to the 17th century, many of which have been restored following the 1993 fire. We continue to Basel and join our river ship, which will be our home for the next 7 nights.
Tuesday 09 June Breisach, Germany – Black Forest (B,L,D)
Admire the dense, lofty fir forests of Germany’s Schwarzwald, the fabled Black Forest. Embark with your guide on a scenic drive through a mythical land of cuckoo clocks, glassblowing and timeless fairy tales. Our panoramic route will take us through wine-producing villages, each of them cradled among the soft, undulating hills, bucolic woodlands and prolific vineyards of southwestern Germany. Our journey culminates in a winding ascent up to the beautiful Hofgut Sternen hotel, a loyal keeper of Black Forest traditions. During the visit, you may choose your immersion into Black Forest culture: take an invigorating forest stroll, attend a cuckoo clock demonstration, watch a glassblower at work, or learn to make the decadent Black Forest Cake for which this region is known. After, return to your ship via Freiburg, a major university and ecclesiastical centre.
Wednesday 10 June Strasbourg, France (B,L,D)
Get to know this delightful city steeped in equal parts French and German culture. We join our guide for a drive through the German Imperial District and the European Quarter, home to institutions such as the European Union and the Council of Europe. Pass remarkable Renaissance architecture en route to the city centre for a walk through picturesque Petite France, the former Tanners’ District surrounded by the Ill River and crisscrossed by charming canals. Here, you will see the Old Customs House and the bridges with their defensive towers. In Cathedral Square, view the magnificently restored Strasbourg Cathedral. One of Europe’s finest Gothic cathedrals, it was the world’s tallest building from 1647 to 1874. Enjoy free time to admire the great Gothic rosette window, beautiful red sandstone portal and remarkable astronomical clock.
Thursday 11 June Speyer & Rüdesheim, Germany (B,L,D)
On today’s included excursion, we enjoy a fascinating stroll through Speyer, home to the largest of the three Romanesque imperial cathedrals. It is believed that the Protestants earned their name here in 1529 after citizens and royalty drafted the “Protestation at Speyer,” proclaiming their right to practice Christianity as they please. In 1689, Louis XIV’s troops plundered Speyer and left it in ruins; over many decades, it was artfully rebuilt. During your walk, you will marvel at the exterior of the red sandstone cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Eight emperors are entombed here, including some of the most notable Holy Roman Emperors. Reconstructed after Louis XIV’s invasion, its six towers dominate the skyline. Pass the Jewish courtyard, once home to one of the most important medieval synagogues, and Speyer’s Altpörtel, or Old Gate, the last remains of the town’s fortifications. There will also be time to stroll the city’s charming, shop-lined main thoroughfare. Continuing on to Rüdesheim in the afternoon, there are a range of optional excursions you can choose to partake in.
Friday 12 June Koblenz, Germany (B,L,D)
Take a leisurely stroll around Koblenz and explore its historic past. We will meet our guide and begin our tour at Deutsches Eck, the city’s famed German Corner. Jutting into the waters like the prow of a ship where the Rhine and Moselle Rivers meet, this public park is home to a popular equestrian statue of Emperor Wilhelm I. After time to admire the sculpture, we continue our walk among the narrow streets. Visit Jesuitsenplatz, or Jesuit Square, in the heart of the Old Town and named after the religious order of the same name. Admire the beautiful old school that sits on the eastern side of the square and has been used as Koblenz City Hall since 1895. As we explore, our guide will point out influences from ancient Rome, the Middle Ages and the Napoleonic era.
Saturday 13 June Cologne, Germany (B,L,D)
Learn about Cologne’s heritage and view its iconic cathedral, towering over the city in all its Gothic splendour. Step into a rich past, following the city’s preserved historic street patterns and hearing about its Roman and medieval history along the way. As we stroll, our guide will regale us with tales of local folklore figures, Tünnes and Schääl, and the city’s flourishing Jewish community. In Old Cologne, pass the elegant silhouette of St. Martin’s church and stop to view Cologne’s magnificent Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction of this towering structure began in 1248 and continued in stages over the next seven centuries. The largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe, this magnificent church boasts two soaring spires and beautiful stained-glass windows, and survived the Allied bombings that ravaged the city and the rest of Germany during World War II.
Sunday 14 June Kinderdijk, The Netherlands (B,L,D)
See the picturesque Dutch countryside and the original technological marvels of historic Kinderdijk on our included excursion today. We will walk with our guide into the serene polder lands of South Holland. As we cross the dike to the windmills, you will notice that they in fact are at a lower elevation than our ship, as much of this part of The Netherlands is below sea level. Built in the mid-18th century, these 19 windmills, the largest concentration in The Netherlands, stand like sentinels on a hushed landscape. We will learn why they were built and see firsthand how they work, even stepping into a working windmill to observe its mechanics and living quarters. Families who live in these mills are required to keep them in working order. This excursion provides a revealing look at these marvellous buildings that helped shape the legendary Dutch landscape.
Monday 15 June Amsterdam (B,D)
It’s time to disembark this morning and farewell captain and crew. We have a coach and guide waiting to meet us and take us on a special visit to the 200-year-old Rijksmuseum, one of the most famous museums in the world and home to many masterpieces by such people as Rembrandt, van Dyck, Vermeer and many others. The museum has undergone a major reconstruction over the past decade and only reopened in 2013. After our guided tour, we check into our hotel for a two-night stay.
Tuesday 16 June Amsterdam (B,D)
Enjoy a free day in this exciting and diverse city. There are plenty of different options from Anne Franks house, to watching the world pass by from a lovely café, or just meandering the streets. This evening, we enjoy our final dinner in Europe together.
Wednesday 17 June Amsterdam – Dubai (B)
Time to farewell Amsterdam and Europe this morning as we are transferred to the airport in time to join our lunchtime flight to Dubai. Arrival time is late evening and overnight accommodation is reserved at the airport.
Thursday 18 June Dubai – Home
Time for the last leg of our journey on our flight home.
Friday 19 June Welcome Home.
Arrival time is mid-morning.
