Compare Zurich and Prague by Air by TripMasters vs Oberammergau and Oktoberfest Bavarian Celebration - 2022 by Insight Vacations

Day 1 in Zurich

Welcome to Zurich! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do! 

Begin the afternoon by heading straight to Altstadt (Zurich`s Old Town) and find a place for lunch amongst the wide range of cafes and restaurants in the area. Spend a bit of time wandering the narrow and winding cobblestone streets, check out the colorful and wonderfully-preserved buildings, and stroll along the Limmat River. We highly recommend a walking tour to discover the city and learn about the history and culture that it offers.

From here, make your way to Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich`s premier shopping street and one of the bustling streets in Old Town where you`ll find window-shopping stores such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Burberry and much more! While here, it`s worth checking out Uhrenmuseum (Watch Museum) that is located in the basement of Beyer watch shop. You will learn the history and see the exhibition on time keeping dating back from 1400 BC to today.

Finish your day at one of the many restaurants or cafes on Bahnhofstrasse, some rich with tradition and many that are very inviting!

Day 2 in Zurich

Wake up early today and start your day off with a stroll along Lake Zurich. The lake is absolutely pristine and offers spectacular views of the Alps. Then head out on a boat cruise for about an hour ride on the lake and get lost in the stunning views and peaceful nature all around.

In the afternoon spend some time visiting Grossmunster, one of the most famous churches in Zurich. Climb the stairs to the top of the tower for stunning views of the city from the top. If time allows, head over to Church of Our Lady (or Fraumunster), built in the 9th century and famous for its graceful spire. You must see it to appreciate its beautiful architecture and stained glass windows that alone make it worth the visit.

As night approaches, head over to the Lindenhoff for sunset, a small climb will offer the most spectacular views of Zurich over the Limmat River and Old Town. You'll find numerous options for a great traditional Swiss dinner while in the downtown area offering views of the river.

Day 3 in Zurich

Start off your day by exploring the breathtaking views of Zurich and head to the Uetilber Mountain. Hike, jog, bike, or take the train up the mountain. At the top, take in the spectacular panoramic views of the entire city of Zurich, the lake, and perhaps even a glimpse of the Alps. Relax with a cup of coffee or a bite to eat while taking in the fantastic views of the city and beyond.

Next, head over to the KunsthausZurich (Museum of Art); said to be one of the best museums in the city. Among an interesting collection of Swiss artists, the museum also hangs works by Pablo Picasso, Wassily Kandinsky, Marc Chagall and Claude Monet. And a visit to the top floors is a must!

On your final night, make your way to Zuri-West, a night life hotspot with a trendy, post-industrial edge. A revival has been taking place here for more than a decade, with converted industrial buildings offering everything from concert halls and rooftop bars to luxury flats. The area is now a hotspot for food design, art and culture.

Additional Days in Zurich

Should you be able to spend additional days in Zurich check out the picturesque beauty of Lucerne. Only a 45 minute drive from Zurich, this full day adventure will give you an understanding of why this is deemed one of Europe’` prettiest cities. Wonder around the city and marvel at the beautiful architecture and the oldest covered foot bridge in Europe. Then take a scenic boat ride to the base of Mount Pilatus and ascend on the steepest cogwheel railway in the world (only open in the summer months). This is an incredible journey up mountains offering the most breathtaking views to the top. Then make your way back down on the aerial cableways and panorama gondolas.

Your Last Day in Zurich

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

Day 1 in Prague

Welcome to Prague! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! The city of a thousand spires awaits you!

Begin your visit in the Old Town (Staré Mesto). Old Town Square is the historical heart of Prague and it is here that you will find the Old Town Hall and its famous Astronomical Clock, dating from the 14th century. Be sure to see the hourly procession of the apostles on the clock and then climb (or take the elevator) to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city, including the Gothic spires of the Tyn Church and Jan Hus monument. Then stop for lunch (and more amazing photos) at the rooftop restaurant of the U Prince restaurant on the square or try the traditional goulash and roast pork knee with cabbage and dumplings served at U Vejvodu, one of the original restaurants of the Pilsner brewery, located on Jilska street.

This afternoon, explore the Jewish Quarter (Josefov) including the Maisel Synagogue, the Pinkas Synagogue, the Spanish Synagogue, the Old Jewish Cemetery and the Jewish Museum. Afterwards, head to Powder Tower, one of the historical gates to Old Town, before continuing next door to admire the exquisite Art Nouveau interiors of Prague`s Municipal House, where the Czechoslovak Declaration of Independence was signed. This is a good place to stop for a cup of coffee or bite to eat in the ground floor restaurant. You can also have dinner in the famous Sarah Bernhardt restaurant, located in Hotel Paris, opposite the Municipal House. Finish your evening with a romantic stroll across the Charles Bridge at night.

Day 2 in Prague

Wake up early today and head for Charles Bridge to gaze upon its many statues and touch the Cross of St. Jan of Nepomuk. (You can climb the towers at either end of the bridge for panoramic views of the city.) Across the Vltava River, in Lesser Town (Mala Strana), you will want to visit the baroque Church of St. Nicholas as well as the Church of Our Lady Victorious, home to the famous `Infant Jesus of Prague`. Afterwards, explore the quaint streets of this area that were once home to diplomats and merchants and now house many foreign embassies.

From Mala Strana continue to the beautiful cloisters of Strahov Monastery, where you can stop for a refreshing beer and snack, before visiting the Prague Loreto, Castle Square and Prague Castle, which in not a single building, but rather a complex of buildings and churches. Your tour of Prague Castle, founded in the 9th century, should include visits to St. Vitus Cathedral, the Royal Palace, St. George`s Basilica and Golden Lane.

After a busy day of sightseeing, board a relaxing dinner boat cruise along the Vltava River and admire the sights of Prague by night. Or if you enjoy opera, you can catch a performance at the famous Estates Theatre where Mozart`s Don Giovanni was first staged in 1787.

Day 3 in Prague

Begin your day exploring Wenceslas Square, the busiest and liveliest part of the city. There are many choices for dining and shopping in this area, especially on Na Prikope Street. Here, you should visit the National Museum at the top of the Square, with its Hall of Fame devoted to famous Czech personalities, as well as the Alfons Mucha Museum on Panska Street, parallel to the square. This relaxing oasis showcases the Art Nouveau designs of the famous artist.

This afternoon, head into New Town (Nove Mesto), to see the New Town Hall and Charles Square before continuing towards the river to Dancing House and the Manes Exhibition Hall, dominated by a 15th century water tower and dedicated to all forms of visual arts. Its juxtaposition of old and new makes it one of the most photographed landmarks in Prague. Afterwards, follow the river up to the National Theatre then cross the Legion Bridge.

Time permitting, make your way to Ujezd tram stop and follow the signs for `Lanove drahy` to ride the funicular up to the Petrin Tower (Little Eiffel Tower) for the most amazing views of the city! Finally, spend your last evening wandering around the quaint shops and restaurants of Kampa Park before making your way across the Charles Bridge one last time.

Additional Days in Prague

Should you be able to spend additional days in Prague then try a day trip outside of the city to experience even more of the rich history and culture of this beautiful country. By far the most popular destination in the Czech Republic after Prague is the medieval Karlstejn Castle. It was built by the King of Bohemia, Charles IV, to safeguard the crown jewels of the Holy Roman Empire.

Afterward, return to the city and see some sights you might have missed. Take in a concert of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra at the Rudolfinum; learn more about the torments the Czech people endured under Communism at the aptly-named Museum of Communism; take a stroll through the largest park in the city, Stromovka; or you can see the ornate Wallenstein Palace, meant to rival Prague Castle, now serving as the meeting place of the Czech Senate.

Another popular city for tourists to visit is the town of Kutná Hora. After Prague, this medieval town was the most important town in Bohemia due to its rich silver deposits. The historic center and Kutná Hora`s main draw, St. Barbara`s Cathedral, have been on the UNESCO list for more than 10 years. Cesky Krumlov, with the second largest castle complex in the country, the spa town of Karlovy Vary and the haunting Terezin Memorial are also great choices so be sure to inquire about visiting these places during the booking process.

Your Last Day in Prague

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel, in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

Day 1: Welcome to Prague

On arrival into Prague, enjoy a complimentary transfer to your hotel at 10:00, 13:00 or 15:30.Meet your Travel Director and travel companions tonight for a welcome drink and dinner in the Old Town.

Day 2: Prague Sightseeing

Prague Sightseeing Join a Local Expert for a guided visit to one of Europe’s most beautiful and historic cities. Start with the 1000-year-old Prague Castle, where you can admire the stained glass of St Vitus Cathedral and spectacular views over the city. Finish in the Old Town Square where the mechanical antics of the Astronomical Clock’s glockenspiel delight onlookers each hour. The city is then yours to explore. Czechs are passionate about their beer, so be sure to try the local lagers, alongside the Czech cuisine.

Day 3: Prague to Rothenburg

Our first stop is Plzeň’s most popular attraction the Pilsner Urquell Brewery, in operation since 1842 and arguably home to the world’s best beer. Our guided excursion includes a trip to the old cellars and a glass of unpasteurized nectar at the end. We then continue across the border in Germany and to the true medieval gem, Rothenburg ob der Tauber (meaning ‘above the Tauber River’) located along the Romantic Road. Tonight, we enjoy dinner in the old town, when the lamplight casts its spell on the quiet streets.

Day 4: Rothenburg to Munich

Plunge back into the 16th century during your orientation with your Travel Director as you walk through narrow cobbled streets lined with high-gabled houses to the market square, dominated by its Renaissance town hall. With an artisan baker, enjoy a demonstration and learn about the history of the traditional pastry Schneeballen (snowball), followed by a tasting. Later, journey along the romantic heart of Germany to Neuschwanstein, a fairy-tale castle spectacularly perched on an Alpine mountainside. Visit King Ludwig II’s favourite castle, which was supposedly the inspiration for many of Walt Disney’s castles. Admire the exuberantly decorated apartments, including the Throne Room and Lohengrin Grotto. Reach fun-loving Munich where our hotel is located for the next two nights.

Day 5: Munich

Be welcomed into fun-loving Munich for an orientation tour which shows you the Feldernhalle on the Odeonsplatz, the Palace of the Dukes of Wittelsbach, English Garden, Hofbrauhaus, St Peters Church, and the famous Marienplatz. Munich hosts the most famous beer festival in the world: Oktoberfest, which has been running since 1810 and now sees over six million visitors each year. This afternoon enjoy the festival atmosphere, amusement rides, entertainment, beer and local Bavarian specialties for dinner. With tables reserved, your dedicated host will ensure you have a memorable time.

Day 6: Munich to Innsbruck

Journey across the Austrian border and to Tyrol, traveling to the charming Alpine city of Innsbruck, set in a valley of snow-capped mountain peaks. Your Travel Director provides an orientation of the city to see its 14th century houses of the Old Town, the impressive Imperial Palace and the delightful Golden Roof.

Day 7: Oberammergau passion play

Pass the magnificent Dolomites as your journey continues north to Oberammergau, situated in the heart of the Bavarian Alps and home of the Passion Play since 1634. Take your premium seats to witness the world famous Passion Play, re-enacting the last days of Christ on earth. After a break for dinner, the captivating performance continues into the evening.

Day 8: Oberammergau to St Moritz

Take in the stunning views of the beautiful Engadine Valley, as you enter Switzerland heading for the chic Alpine resort of St. Moritz. Enjoy St. Moritz’s marvellous scenery, fresh air and perhaps visit its many luxury boutiques.

Day 9: Leisure Time in St Moritz

Enjoy a day at leisure to jostle with the jetset in the elegant boutiques. You may even choose to step aboard the Bernina Express to experience one of Europe’s most outstanding train journeys.

Day 10: St Moritz to Interlaken area

Step aboard the world-famous Glacier Express for a spectacular ride through the heart of the Swiss Alps. Descend through the spiral tunnels of the Albula Pass and over the lofty Landwasser Viaduct. Picturesque landscapes of ice-capped mountains and stone-built villages, with chalet-style houses, will be in sight as you ascend to the highest point of the route, 2,033 metres to the icy Oberalp Pass. The modern panorama viewing car means you won’t miss a thing on your descent to Andermatt. Then continue to Interlaken, a beautiful traditional resort town in the mountainous region of central Switzerland. Built on a narrow stretch of valley, between the emerald-coloured waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

Day 11: Lucerne and on to Zurich

Continue on to beautiful Lucerne where your sightseeing will show you its many highlights. See the stirring Lion Monument, Old Town Hall, the covered bridges and the quaint square of Weinmarkt with its Renaissance fountain.  In the afternoon continue to Zurich where this evening join your travelling companions at a local restaurant. Your Celebration Dinner is accompanied with wine – raise your glass to toast to your adventure.

Day 12: Depart Zürich

After breakfast, bid farewell to your travel companions. Your departure transfer to Zürich will arrive at 08:00 am.