Day-by-Day Itinerary

Overnights: Heidelberg (2), Lucerne (3), Munich (2) and Vienna (2)

Day 1 – Overnight Flight

Depart on your overnight flight to Frankfurt, Germany, beginning your European adventure. As you travel across the Atlantic, students set off on a journey through historic cities, Alpine landscapes, and diverse cultures across Central Europe.

Day 2 – Arrival in Heidelberg

Arrive in Frankfurt and meet your Travel Director before transferring to Heidelberg, one of Germany’s most historic university towns. Enjoy an orientation walk through the Old Town, strolling along the Neckar River and past centuries-old university buildings. Check into your hotel and gather for a welcome dinner to kick off the program.

Day 3 – Heidelberg

Visit Heidelberg Castle, dramatically perched above the city. Explore the castle courtyard, the German Pharmacy Museum, the famous Great Wine Barrel, and the terraced gardens once considered the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” In the afternoon, walk along the scenic Philosopher’s Walk, offering panoramic views of the Old Town and river below.

Day 4 – Heidelberg → Lucerne

Travel to Lucerne, Switzerland, enjoying the changing scenery as you approach the Alps. Arrive in the afternoon, check into your hotel, and enjoy an orientation walk through Lucerne’s Old Town. Stroll along the lakefront and take in your first views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains.

Day 5 – Mount Pilatus Adventure

Ascend to the summit of Mount Pilatus, reaching nearly 7,000 feet above sea level. On clear days, take in sweeping views of the Swiss Alps and surrounding lakes. On the way down, enjoy an alpine adventure experience featuring climbing elements, zip lines, and a ride on Fräkigaudi, Switzerland’s longest alpine toboggan run. Return to Lucerne for the evening.

Day 6 – Lucerne Old Town & Lido

Begin the day with a guided walking tour of Lucerne, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), the Lion Monument, historic Old Town squares, and lakeside promenades. In the afternoon, head to the Lucerne Lido to swim in Lake Lucerne, relax by the water, and take in stunning Alpine views rising directly from the shoreline.

Day 7 – Lucerne → Munich

Travel to Munich, the capital of Bavaria and one of Germany’s most dynamic cities. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided bike tour through Marienplatz, the Schwabing student district, and the expansive English Garden, where locals famously surf the Eisbach River. Experience Munich’s blend of historic landmarks and lively modern culture.

Day 8 – Munich

Visit the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site, learning about its history and significance as the first Nazi concentration camp and an important place of remembrance. Return to Munich in the afternoon and explore Viktualienmarkt, the city’s iconic open-air food market, before enjoying the evening in the city.

Day 9 – Munich → Vienna

Depart Munich this morning and travel to Vienna, Austria’s elegant capital known for its imperial history, classical music heritage, and grand architecture. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and settle in before heading out for a guided walking tour of the city. After dinner, continue exploring Vienna as the city begins to glow in the evening light, stroll along the Ringstrasse past grand historic buildings and sweeping boulevards, and walk along the Danube Canal for a first introduction to Vienna’s refined atmosphere and vibrant cultural scene.

Day 10 – Vienna

Explore Vienna’s historic center on a guided walking tour, including St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, and the Spanish Riding School (exterior). In the afternoon, visit Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens, strolling through the expansive grounds and enjoying panoramic views from the Gloriette. Celebrate the journey with a farewell dinner.

Day 11 – Departure

Transfer to Vienna International Airport for your return flight home, bringing back lasting memories, new friendships, and a deeper understanding of European culture and history.